Anritsu MA244 User Manual

User Guide

MA244xxA Microwave USB Peak

Power Sensors

Anritsu Company	Part Number: 10585-00033
490 Jarvis Drive	Revision: C
Morgan Hill, CA 95037-2809	Published: February 2021
USA	©Copyright 2021 Anritsu Company
http://www.anritsu.com

Unauthorized Use or Disclosure

Anritsu Company has prepared the product user documentation for use by Anritsu Company personnel and customers as a guide for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of Anritsu Company equipment and software programs. The drawings, specifications, and information contained therein are the property of Anritsu Company, and any unauthorized use of these drawings, specifications, and information is prohibited; they shall not be reproduced, copied, or used in whole or in part as the basis for manufacture or sale of the equipment or software programs without the prior written consent of Anritsu Company.

Export Management

The Anritsu products identified herein and their respective manuals may require an Export License or approval by the government of the product country of origin for re-export from your country. Before you export these products or any of their manuals, please contact Anritsu Company to confirm whether or not these items are export-controlled. When disposing of export-controlled items, the products and manuals must be broken or shredded to such a degree that they cannot be unlawfully used for military purposes.

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MA244xxA UG

Table of Contents

Chapter 1—General Information

1-1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Additional Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1-2 Manual Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 1-3 Instrument Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 1-4 Architecture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

1-5 Instrument Care and Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 Connector Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 ESD Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Chapter 2—Installation

2-1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 2-2 Unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 2-3 Repacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 2-4 Installing MA244xxA Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Chapter 3—Getting Started

3-1 MA244xxA Input Power Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1 3-2 Connecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1 3-3 Status LED Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3 3-4 Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6 Dockable Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6 Available Resources Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 Virtual Power Analyzer Main Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9 Trace View Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11 Virtual Power Analyzer Lower Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 Channel Control Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 Time / Trigger Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14 Marker Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15 Pulse Definitions Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16 Stat Mode Control Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17 Automatic Measurements Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18 Display (Graph) Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20 CCDF View Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21 Statistical Measurements Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22

Chapter 4—Operation

4-1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

4-2 The Trace View Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 The Main Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

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Table of Contents (Continued)

Time/Trigger Control Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 Channel Control Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10 Automatic Measurements Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15 Pulse Definitions Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19 Marker Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20 Statistical CCDF Graph Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22 Statistical Mode Control Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23 Statistical Measurements Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24 Meter View Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25 Acquisition Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27 Archiving Measurement Setups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27

4-3 Multichannel Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29 Multichannel Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29

4-4 Data Buffer Mode (API Remote Programming Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-34 Data Buffer Mode Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35 Data Buffer Mode User Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38

Chapter 5—Making Measurements

5-1 Pulse Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1 Pulse Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1 Standard IEEE Pulse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5-2 Marker Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 5-3 Automatic Statistical Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

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MA244xxA UG

Chapter 1 — General Information

1-1 Introduction

The MA244xxA Microwave USB Peak Power Sensors (MA244xxA Peak Power Sensorss) are designed to provide accurate, peak-power measurements from 50 MHz to 6 GHz, 18 GHz, and 40 GHz with up to 80 dB of dynamic range and 195 MHz of video bandwidth. The sensors employ real-time processing, a unique parallel processing methodology that performs the multi-step process of RF power measurement. While conventional power meters and USB sensors perform steps serially resulting in long re-arm times and missed data, Anritsu’s MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors capture, display, and measure every pulse, glitch, and detail with virtually no gaps in data and with zero latency.

Before You Begin

Read the Anritsu Power Meters, Power Sensors, and Power Analyzer Product Information, Compliance, and Safety Guide (PN: 10100-00066) for important safety, legal, and regulatory notices before operating the equipment.

Additional Documentation

Table 1-1. Related Manuals

Document Part Number	Description
10100-00066	Important Product Information, Compliance, and Safety Notices
11410-01127	Microwave USB Peak Power Sensors Technical Data Sheet
10585-00034	Programming Manual

For additional information and literature covering your product, visit the product page of your instrument and select the Library tab: https://www.anritsu.com/en-us/test-measurement/products/ma24400a

1-2 Manual Organization

This User Manual provides the information needed to install, operate, and maintain the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors.

The manual is organized into these seven chapters:

Chapter 1, “General Information” presents summary descriptions of the sensors and their principal features, accessories, and options. Also included are specifications for the instrument.

Chapter 2, “Installation” provides instructions for unpacking the sensor, setting it up for operation, connecting power, and signal cables, and initial power-up.

Chapter 3, “Getting Started” describes the basic operation of the Microwave Peak Power Sensors and the Power Analyzer Software.

Chapter 4, “Operation” describes, in detail, the Graphical User Interface (GUI) of the Power Analyzer Software and the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors.

Chapter 5, “Making Measurements” provides definitions for key terms used in this manual and on the GUI displays, as well as methodologies used to calculate automated pulse, marker, and statistical measurements.

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1-3 Instrument Description

General Information

1-3 Instrument Description

This modular product line offers speed and accuracy in a USB form-factor. The new line includes 6, 18 and 40 GHz models, and measures wideband modulated signals.

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are the latest series of products from Anritsu that turn your PC or laptop using a standard USB 2.0 port into a state-of-the-art peak power analyzer without the need for any other instrument. Power measurements from the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors can be displayed on your computer or can be integrated into a test system with a set of user-defined software functions.

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors include the models MA24406A, MA24408A, MA24418A, MA24440A, MA24419A, and MA24441A. Collectively, they cover a frequency range of 50 MHz to 40 GHz and offer broadband measurements with rise times as fast as 3 ns, time resolution of 100 ps, and video bandwidths up to 195 MHz.

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors enable rapid-pulse integrity determinations. Effective sampling rate is up to one hundred times faster than conventional power sensors. This makes finer waveform details visible. The sensors perform automatic capture of pulse power, overshoot, droop, edge delay, skew timing, and edge transition times.

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors have exceptional trigger stability—of less than 100 ps trigger jitter regardless of the trigger source—which yields greater waveform detail because a stable trigger point yields a stable waveform. Using dedicated trigger circuitry rather than software-based, triggering provides precise time-stamping of relative trigger-to-sample delay. This precision permits the use of random interleaved sampling (RIS) for repetitive waveforms. This results in an effective sampling rate of 10 GS/s, which permits accurate, direct-measurement of fast timing events without requiring interpolation between samples.

Real-time processing offers new possibilities for power integrity measurements because every pulse is analyzed and none are discarded. Trace acquisition, averaging, and envelope times are drastically reduced, resulting in simultaneous analysis of average, peak, and minimum power values.

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are supported by the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer, a Windows-based software package that provides control and readout of the sensors. It is an easy-to-use program that provides both time and statistical domain views of power waveforms with variable peak hold and persistence views. It supports power measurements using automated pulse and statistical measurements, power level, and timing markers. The GUI application is easily configured with dockable or floating windows and measurement tables that can be edited to show only the measurements of interest.

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are ideal for manufacturing, design, research, and service in commercial and military applications such as telecommunications, avionics, RADAR, and medical systems. They are the instrument of choice for fast, accurate, and highly-reliable RF power measurements, equally suitable for product development, compliance testing, and site-monitoring applications.

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General Information

1-4 Architecture

1-4 Architecture

The sensor functions as an ultra-fast, calibrated, power-measurement tool, which acquires and computes the instantaneous, average, and peak RF power of a modulated, wideband RF signal. The internal A/D converter samples the detected RF signal at up to 100 megasamples/second (MSa/s), and a digital signal processor carries out the work of forming the digital samples into a correctly scaled and calibrated trace on the display.

Figure 1-1 shows a block diagram of the peak power sensor.

Figure 1-1. MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors Block Diagram

The first and most critical stage of a peak power sensor is the detector, which removes the RF carrier signal and outputs the amplitude of the modulating signal. The width of the detector’s video bandwidth dictates the sensor’s ability to track the power envelope of the RF signal. The image on the left of Figure 1-2 shows how a detector with insufficient bandwidth is unable to track the signal’s envelope effectively, affecting the accuracy of the power measurement.

The image on the right shows sufficient video bandwidth to track the envelope accurately. The fast detectors used in peak-power sensors are by their nature non-linear, so shaping procedures within the digital processor must be used to linearize their response. When measuring instantaneous peak power, a high-sample rate is important to ensure that no information is lost. The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors have a sample rate of 100 MS/s, enabling capture and analysis of power versus time waveforms at a very high resolution.

Figure 1-2. Comparison of Bandwidth Detectors

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1-5 Instrument Care and Preventive Maintenance

General Information

1-5 Instrument Care and Preventive Maintenance

Instrument care and preventive maintenance consist of proper operation in a suitable environment, occasional cleaning of the instrument, and inspecting and cleaning the RF connectors and all accessories before use. Clean the instrument with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water or water and a mild cleaning solution.

Caution To avoid damaging the display or case, do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

Connector Care

Clean the RF connectors and center pins with a cotton swab dampened with denatured alcohol. Visually inspect the connectors. The fingers of the N(f) connectors and the pins of the N(m) connectors should be unbroken and uniform in appearance. If you are unsure whether the connectors are undamaged, gauge the connectors to confirm that the dimensions are correct. Visually inspect the test port cable(s). The test port cable should be uniform in appearance and not stretched, kinked, dented, or broken.

To prevent damage to your instrument, do not use pliers or a plain wrench to tighten the Type-N connectors. The recommended torque is 12 lbf·in (1.35 N·m). The recommended torque for K connectors (2.92 mm) is

8 lbf·in (0.9 N·m). Inadequate torque settings can affect measurement accuracy. Over-tightening connectors can damage the cable, the connector, the instrument, or all of these items.

Visually inspect connectors for general wear, cleanliness, and for damage such as bent pins or connector rings. Repair or replace damaged connectors immediately. Dirty connectors can limit the accuracy of your measurements. Damaged connectors can harm the instrument. Connection of cables carrying an electrostatic potential, excess power, or excess voltage can damage the connector, the instrument, or both.

Connecting Procedure

1.Carefully align the connectors. The male connector center pin must slip concentrically into the contact fingers of the female connector.

2.Align and push connectors straight together. Do not twist or screw them together. A slight resistance can usually be felt as the center conductors mate.

3.To tighten, turn the connector nut, not the connector body. Major damage can occur to the center conductor and to the outer conductor if the connector body is twisted.

4.If you use a torque wrench, initially tighten by hand so that approximately 1/8 turn or 45 degrees of rotation remains for the final tightening with the torque wrench.

Relieve any side pressure on the connection (such as from long or heavy cables) in order to assure consistent torque. Use an open-end wrench to keep the connector body from turning while tightening with the torque wrench.

Do not over-torque the connector.

Disconnecting Procedure

1.If a wrench is needed, use an open-end wrench to keep the connector body from turning while loosening with a second wrench.

2.Complete the disconnection by hand, turning only the connector nut.

3.Pull the connectors straight apart without twisting or bending.

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General Information

1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service

ESD Caution

The MA244xxA power sensors, like other high performance instruments, are susceptible to electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage. Coaxial cables and antennas often build up a static charge, which (if allowed to discharge by connecting directly to the instrument without discharging the static charge) may damage the MA244xxA input circuitry. Instrument operators must be aware of the potential for ESD damage and take all necessary precautions.

Operators should exercise practices outlined within industry standards such as JEDEC-625 (EIA-625), MIL-HDBK-263, and MIL-STD-1686, which pertain to ESD and ESDS devices, equipment, and practices. Because these apply to the MA244xxA power sensors, it is recommended that any static charges that may be present be dissipated before making connection. It is important to remember that the operator may also carry a static charge that can cause damage. Following the practices outlined in the above standards will ensure a safe environment for both personnel and equipment.

1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service

Customers having questions or equipment problems should visit this website and select the services in your region: http://www.anritsu.com/contact-us.

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1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service

General Information

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MA244xxA UG

Chapter 2 — Installation

2-1 Introduction

This chapter contains unpacking and repacking instructions, installation instructions for the software, and power requirements for the sensors.

2-2 Unpacking

	Caution	Follow all ESD (electro-static discharge) precautions and procedures when handling, connecting, or
		disconnecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors.

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are shipped complete and are ready to use upon receipt. Verify the items in your power sensor package as shown in Figure 2-1, If any of the items are missing or damaged, refer to contact Anritsu Customer Service.

1

2

6

5

4

3

1.	Calibration Certificate	4.	USB Type-A Cable (6 ft)
2.	Information Card	5.	External Trigger Multi-I/O Cable (SMB to BNC)
3.	MA244xxA Power Sensor	6.	Trigger Sync Cable (SMB to SMB)

Figure 2-1. MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors Kit

2-3 Repacking

When repacking the sensor, use the original packing materials or equivalent.

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2-4 Installing MA244xxA Software

Installation

2-4 Installing MA244xxA Software

This section describes the installation and use of the MA244xxA USB Peak Power Sensor software. Before you start, check your computer for compatibility against these minimum computer characteristics:

	Caution	Do not connect the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors to your PC until you have installed the
		MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer software.

•Processor: 1.3 GHz or higher, recommended

•RAM: 512 MB (1 GB or more, recommended)

•Operating System:

•Microsoft® Windows® 10

•Microsoft® Windows® 8 (32-bit and 64-bit)

•Microsoft® Windows® 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)

•Hard-disk free space: 1.0 GB free space to install or run

•Display resolution: 800x600 (1280x1024 or higher, recommended)

•Interface: USB 2.0 high-speed

Installation Procedure

MA244xxA provides a PC User Interface for making Peak Power Measurements.

To install the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer software:

1.Download the latest MA244xxA USB Peak Power Sensor software from the Anritsu Website: https://www.anritsu.com/en-us/test-measurement/support/downloads/software/dwl19784

2.Click Download

3.Select Run to start the installation.

4.Click through the installation screens. The installation creates a folder on the users PC that is located here: C:\Program Files (x86)\MA24400A Peak Power Analyzer. Open the folder to launch AnritsuPowerAnalyzer.exe. Once launched, the MA244xxA PC User Interface will appear as shown in Figure 2-2.

Figure 2-2. MA244xxA PC Interface Display

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Chapter 3 — Getting Started

This chapter provides MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors basic connection and operation. For a detailed functional description, see Chapter 4, “Operation."

3-1 MA244xxA Input Power Requirements

The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors require 2.5 Watts at 5 Volts, this is supplied via a USB port. Therefore, power sensor MUST be connected to a USB 2.0 compatible port that is able to supply 500 mA.

Usually a USB 2.0 port is capable of supplying 500 mA current through its port. When an Note un-powered USB hub is used (sometimes the hub is internal), available current may need to be

shared between connected devices.

3-2 Connecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors

The rear panel of the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors, shown in Figure 3-1, has two connectors and a status LED. The larger connector is a USB Type B receptacle used to connect the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors to the host computer. The connector labeled MULTI I/O is an SMB plug and can serve as a trigger input, a status output, or as a trigger-synchronizing interconnection when multiple MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are used.

Figure 3-1. The Power Sensor Rear Panel

	Note	The MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer software must be installed prior to connecting the sensor but
		should not be started until the sensor is connected.
	Caution	Follow all ESD (electrostatic discharge) precautions and procedures when handling, connecting, or
		disconnecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors.

To connect the sensor to the PC and to an RF source:

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3-1 MA244xxA Input Power Requirements

Getting Started

1.Connect the power sensor to your PC with the supplied USB cable. The cable should be secured (hand-tight only) to the sensor using the captive screw on the USB plug. See Figure 3-2

Figure 3-2. Captive Screw for the USB Cable

2.Connect the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors to the RF signal to be measured. All MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors models are equipped with either a precision Type-N male RF connector (for applications up to 20 GHz) or a precision 2.92 mm male RF connector (for applications up to 40 GHz).

Use the connecting and disconnecting procedures described in “Instrument Care and Preventive Maintenance” on page 1-4.

Caution Do not exceed the specified RF input power as specified on the front label. See Figure 3-3 for location of this information.

Ensure that you do not apply any excessive forces to the sensor after it is connected.

Figure 3-3. MA24406A With N-Type Connector

3.Connect additional sensors according to your needs. See “Multichannel Operation” on page 4-29 for connection schemes for multichannel situations.

Up to eight sensors can be connected to the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer.

4.Start the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer. Refer to “Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer”.

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Getting Started

3-3 Status LED Codes

3-3 Status LED Codes

The rear panel shown in Figure 3-1 on page 3-1 includes a status LED. The color and flash pattern indicate the sensor’s status as indicated on the label on the side panel shown in Figure 3-4.

Figure 3-4. Information Labels on the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors

The information labels (see Figure 3-3 and Figure 3-4) on the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors contain information on the maximum input power levels and a description of the various status LED flash patterns.

Table 3-1. LED Status Indicators

Icon Description

No Power: No input power detected.

No Power

Init Fault: Initialize meter setting failed.

Init Fault

Free Running: Generating horizontal sweeps asynchronously, without

regard to trigger conditions.

Free Runing

Triggered: Indicates a preset triggered condition has occurred.

Triggered

Auto Triggered: Automatically generates a trace if no trigger edges are Auto Triggered detected for a period of time.

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Table 3-1. LED Status Indicators

Icon Description

Armed: Meter is armed and waiting for trigger event.

Armed

Stopped: Measurement Stopped.

Stopped

Overload: Input power is too high. Reduce input power.

Overload

Cmd Error: Command Error return. Measurement is not valid.

Cmd Error

3-4 Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer

After you have installed the software and connected the power sensor to the PC, you are ready to make measurements using the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer.

To start making measurements:

1.Start the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer by double-clicking the desktop icon.

Figure 3-5. MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Desktop Icon

A splash screen welcomes you to the application.

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3-4 Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer

If no sensors are connected, the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer displays the No resources available message as shown in Figure 3-6. If this is the case, close the analyzer, connect one or more sensors and restart the analyzer.

Figure 3-6. No Resources View Available

With a sensor connected, the Available Resources window shows a list of the connected devices

Figure 3-7. Available Resources Box

2.In the Available Resources window, check select boxes for one or more connected sensors.

Figure 3-8. Selecting a Sensor from the Available Resources List

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3.Click New Virtual Pwr Analyzer. This launches a new Virtual Power Analyzer instance containing trace and control panels, and adds the Virtual Power Analyzer name to the Available Resource entries.

Figure 3-9. The Available Resources Box Shows Assigned Devices

4.If you have an RF signal connected to the USB sensor, the measured signal's waveform appears in the trace window.

Figure 3-10. Initial View of the Virtual Power Analyzer

A Virtual Power Analyzer is analogous to a bench-top RF power analyzer with one or more sensors connected. Time and trigger controls are typically common to all sensors within a MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer, while channel-specific controls are available for most other settings. This offers users the familiar, multi-channel approach common to power meters and oscilloscopes.

When independent control of timebase-related settings is desired, you may open multiple MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer windows, each with their own sets of controls.

3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics

Dockable Windows

The MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer uses dockable windows that allow you to arrange the various windows into the configuration of your choice. You can drag a docked window by clicking its title bar. This action enables them to move the window to a different docked position or undock it.

To dock tool windows:

1.Click and hold the title bar of the tool window you want to dock.

2.Start dragging the window.

Guide arrows appear pointing toward the four sides of the main window.

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3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics

3.When the tool window you are dragging reaches the location where you want to dock it, move the pointer over the corresponding portion of the guide diamond. The designated area is shaded blue.

Figure 3-11. Docking a Window

4.To dock the window in the position indicated, release the mouse button.

Figure 3-12. Docking a Window to the Right-side of the Main Window

Each of the tool windows may be positioned by dragging in any direction within the main window. Note Figure 3-11 on page 3-7 is one example; but you can rearrange tool windows as you prefer to see

them within the main software window or onto the desktop; Figure 3-13 shows this.

5.Docked windows can be overlapped. By selecting individual tabs, it is possible to resize and reposition each tool window.

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6.Docked windows can also be moved partially or completely out of the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer main window.

Figure 3-13. Partial Window Repositioning

Available Resources Window

Sensors can be selected from the Available Resources window. A description for each connected resource indicates the hardware version, model, and channel information, including alias. Users can select up to eight resources per Virtual Power Analyzer instance. After selecting sensors, click New Virtual Pwr Analyzer and a new Virtual Power Analyzer instance opens for those sensors with default configurations suitable for pulse measurements.

Figure 3-14. Selecting a Sensor Using the Available Resources Box

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3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics

Virtual Power Analyzer Main Toolbar

Each Virtual Power Analyzer window displays a main toolbar at the top of its window which hosts shortcuts to commonly used functions and measurement modes. The main toolbar is subdivided into smaller toolbars by function; the order of tools in each toolbar may be customized or the groups may be dragged and dropped as needed to provide more usable arrangements.

Toolbar	Tool	Description
Measurement Control	CCDF	Opens the CCDF window
		(Complementary Cumulative Distribution
		Function)
	Trace	Opens the trace window
	Auto Meas	Opens the auto measurement window
	Statistical Meas	Opens the stat measurement window
	Meter	Opens the meter view
Acquisition Control	Run	Starts a capture
	Stop	Stops a capture
	Single	Performs a single sweep
	Clear	Clears measurement buffer
	Init	Initializes meter settings
Control Windows	Time/Trig	Views time and trigger settings
	Channel	Views channel controls
	Mark	Opens marker control form
	Pulse Def	Opens pulse definition editor
	Stat Cntl	Opens stat mode control editor
Memory Channel	Swap/Change	Swaps the USB power meter for a channel
	Save Mem Channel	Saves (archives) a memory channel
	Recall Mem Channel	Loads an archived memory channel
Figure 3-15. Main Toolbar Toolbars

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With each of these tools is associated a dialog; these are described in Chapter 4 in more detail. When several are open simultaneously you can switch between them using the shortcuts at the bottom of the dialog.

Figure 3-16. Toolbar Shortcuts: Left View is Docked; Right View is Undocked.

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Trace View Window

To display a pulse measurement, select the Trace button from the Measurement toolbar. This is the default view for a Virtual Power Analyzer instance.

The Channel and Time/Trig(ger) settings are related to pulse measurement can be selected from the Control toolbar and can be applied to the measurement.

Trace Group	Trigger Group

Figure 3-17. The Trace, Channel, and Time/Trigger Buttons

A Virtual Power Analyzer instance, in a configuration suitable for pulse measurements, is shown in

Figure 3-18. This shows a large trace window, automatic measurements, and a tabbed control box for time and channel settings.

Figure 3-18. Main Application Window of the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer

The Virtual Power Analyzer allows you to directly enter numeric values for most settings in the Channel Control and Time/Trigger windows. For many of the controls, additional methods such as increment/decrement or preset buttons are available.

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Virtual Power Analyzer Lower Toolbar

Trace Pan and Zoom

The mouse can be used to select a zoom area to view detail in an area of interest on the displayed waveform. The highlighted dragged rectangular area indicates the minimum area that will be shown when the zoom operation completes.

Horizontal pan or zoom adjusts the timebase (within preset values) and the trigger delay to highlight an area of interest without vertical rescaling.

You can also directly pan or zoom to waveform areas of interest by selecting any option from the lower toolbar of the trace window. Available options for zoom/pan control are: Horizontal & Vertical, Horizontal, Pan and None.

Clicking the Trace View display, dragging a zoom box, and releasing the mouse button results in the trace being expanded to show the area outlined by the zoom indicators.

AutoSet

The Auto Set button tries to configure level scaling, trigger level, and timing for a best-fit display based upon amplitude and timing of the applied signal. All other parameters are set to defaults. If the Auto Set process fails, all settings are left untouched.

You can undo or redo an action with the undo and redo buttons.

Trace Data Export

Any trace window can be exported and saved or printed as a PDF or CSV document by selecting PDF or CSV from the Export drop-down menu. An exported trace file can easily be imported into a spreadsheet or other report file or documentation.

Channel Control Window

Select the Channel button of the Trigger group and a dockable sidebar appears, by default, on the right-hand side of the main application window. This allows you to change all the related settings that control one or more sensor channels. The Channel Control is defined by these parameters.

Figure 3-19. Channel Control Dialog

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Channel

Select one channel to update from the drop-down list or select All channels (available only with multiple channels) to simultaneously update all measurement channels (up to 8) for most settings.

Memory Pull-down

You can select the stored memory channels.

Info Group

Serial: Displays the serial number of the sensor.

Model: Displays the model number of the sensor.

Firmware: Displays the date of the firmware version.

FPGA: Displays the FPGA version.

Mark Control: Brings up the Mark Control dialog.

Pulse Definition: Brings up the Pulse Definition dialog.

Vertical Group

Scale: Sets vertical amplitude scaling and centering of the displayed waveform. These settings affect only the Trace display.

Units: Selects dBm, Watts, or Volts measurement units. Selection affects displayed text, measurements, and trace.

Center: The center frequency for the display.

Sensor Group

Sensor Enabled: Enable or disable individual connected sensors.

Trace Avg: Sets number of acquired sweeps averaged together for displayed trace in pulse/triggered modes. Useful for noisy signals.

Mod Filter: Sets the modulation filter integration time.

Filter Mode: Sets manual or automatic filter integration time window for measurements in modulated (non-triggered) acquisition modes.

Video BW: Selects sensor video bandwidth, high or low. Frequency: Sets measurement frequency for the applied RF signal.

Peak Hold Group

Mode: Sets the mode of the sensor to either manual or tracking.

Decay Count: Sets peak hold duration (# of sweeps).

Cal&Corrections Group

Offset: Compensates reading for external gain/loss.

Zero and Fixed Cal : Performs sensor zeroing or fixed calibration by selecting each specific button.

Clear User Cal: Clears any user calibration for the sensor selected (refer to “Channel” on page 3-13). Fixed Cal: Performs a calibration at 0 dBm at the currently set frequency.

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Time / Trigger Settings Window

Click the Time/Trig button of the Trigger group to customize all related settings for both timebase and trigger of a pulse signal. Refer “Time/Trigger Control Window” on page 4-5 for details.

Figure 3-20. Time and Trigger Dialog

Time

Timebase: Acquisition time in seconds per division. The power sensors use a fixed grid of 10 divisions for the sweep extents. Settings are in a 1-2-5 sequence. Consult series specifications for timebase range.

Trigger: Delay The trigger delay can be adjusted by manually entering a numerical value into the field or using the up-down arrow keys. Refer to “Time Control” on page 4-6.

Trigger Position

The trigger position can be changed by entering numerical values into the Divisions field, clicking the scroll arrows, dragging the slide control, or by clicking the L/M/R (Left/Middle/Right) indicators. Refer to “Trigger Position Control” on page 4-7.

Trigger Control

Source: Several trigger modes are available for each trigger source under Trigger Control section. Multiple trigger sources are available under the drop-down list including both Internal and External selection.

Mode: Select Normal, Auto, AutoLevel or Free run.

Level: Sets trigger level when trigger source is INT and trigger mode is Auto or Normal. Slope: Selects risingor falling-edge triggering.

Holdoff: Sets trigger holdoff time. Holdoff Mode : Selects between Normal or Gap.

Trigger Skew

Adjustment: Adjusts the skew for internal trigger with master trigger output, and also external and slave triggers. Skew adjustments allow you to calibrate out-trigger delay between sensors so the you can measure the propagation delay of the DUT from input to output. Manual skew adjustments can be made by entering the skew value in the numeric entry field. The button to the right of each skew adjustment is the Auto-Skew, which allows automatic adjustment of the skew. Refer to“Trigger Skew Adj(ust)” on page 4-9.

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