Atec Aeroflex-6820A User Manual
For the very latest specifications visit www.aeroflex.com
6820A Series Microwave Scalar Analyzers for fast and accurate testing in field and factory
Microwave
6820A Series RF & Microwave Scalar Analyzer
• Precision scalar network measurements
• 3 GHz, 8.4 GHz, 20 GHz, 24 GHz,
40 GHz and 46 GHz frequency versions
• Low noise synthesized signal source with
optional step attenuator
• Internal modulation options - pulse
modulator and/or FM and pulse
generator
• Real time transmission line fault location
with 0.1% accuracy
• EEPROM corrected scalar detectors for
accurate measurements
• Applications interface allows guided and
automatic testing
• Modular design for rapid service
Five Frequency Versions
The 6820 series of scalar analyzers covers the
most commonly required frequency bands in 5
versions. A comprehensive range of accessories is
available to support each of these units.
6820A series Scalar Analyzers
6821A 1 MHz to 3 GHz Scalar Analyzer
6822A 10 MHz to 8.4 GHz Scalar Analyzer
6823A 10 MHz to 20 GHz Scalar Analyzer
6824A 10 MHz to 24 GHz Scalar Analyzer
6825A 10 MHz to 46 GHz Scalar Analyzer
6825AR 10 MHz to 40 GHz Scalar Analyzer
Synthesized Source
The synthesized source has low phase noise and
1 Hz frequency resolution. VCOs are used for frequencies above 3
GHz and an integrated RF synthesizer for the 1 MHz to 3 GHz
range. Optionally increased output power is available from 3 to 24
GHz. Internal filtering results in excellent harmonic performance of
<-50 dBc (70 MHz to 24 GHz) for improved scalar measurement
accuracy. Optional step attenuators are available to set low output
powers for amplifier or receiver testing.
In CW mode the source can be used for local oscillator substitution.
A power sweep is provided for amplifier gain compression testing.
External FM can be applied by connecting an AF generator to the
rear panel. The internal modualtion option provides frequency
modulation of the source or pulse patterns for internal or external
pulse modulators. The internal pulse modulator option allows either
an external pulse generator to be connected via a rear panel BNC
connector or utilizes the pulse patterns available from the internal
modulation option. The pulse patterns may be configured and
selected in either single pulse or multi-pulse formats.
When used with the scalar analyzer the source provides a swept
synthesized output for frequency characterization of components
and systems.
Scalar Analyzer
The three input scalar analyzer provides network characterization of
components and systems. Simultaneous measurement of insertion
and return loss are displayed on the 6820 color screen. Excellent
measurement accuracy is assured by the use of EEPROM corrected
detectors.
Bandpass filter insertion loss measurement
Each detector is individually characterized for linearity and
frequency response to provide a measurement accuracy close to that
achieved with a power sensor. A range of autotesters with high directivity is available for return loss measurements.
Fault Location
Fault location software is standard on all 6820A series instruments.
Many modern communication systems rely on a coaxial or waveguide
feed between the transmitter and antenna. The fast fault location
facility of the 6820A can quickly locate the position of faults causing
poor return loss in the feed, which can seriously impact system performance.
Measurement resolution and accuracy is assured by the use of a synthesized source with up to 1601 measurement points.
Fault location measurement of a coaxial feed and antenna
Simplified User Interface
Integration of the source and scalar analyzer, and the built-in applications facility, makes operations faster and simpler. The operator uses
a single interface to set up any measurement. This saves time and is
easier than writing software to perform comprehensive network
measurements.
Eight softkeys give rapid access to all commonly used parameters.
Softkeys are shaped to inform the user of the action that the key will
perform, e.g. enter data, select from list, move to another menu or
immediate action. All commonly accessed functions are no more than
one level deep, so that the instrument operation is easily learned.
Applications Interface
An applications interface is built into the 6820A series which allows
the user to create their own measurement routines and guide the
operator through the test procedure. For example it can display on the
6820A screen how to set up the measurement, lead the operator
through a calibration, show where to connect the device under test
and then test the device’s performance against predefined limits. The
applications facility can reduce the incidence of operator error,
improve measurement repeatability, provide guidance to infrequent
users or simplify complex test procedures.
Color Display
A large TFT color display is fitted to the 6820A displaying up to four
measurements on two channels. Scalar measurements can be
displayed simultaneously on independent channels.
Dual channel display, showing wide band and narrow band fre-
quency sweeps
Comprehensive Markers
Up to eight markers are available. The marker menus provide the
tools that are most commonly used in each of the measurement
modes.
In scalar mode markers automatically calculate peak to peak ripple,
N-dB bandwidth, -1 dB bandwidth and find maximum and minimum
signal levels. This simplifies device characterization and reduces test
time.
For fault location measurements the next peak left/right feature
identifies the position and magnitude of each of the discontinuities
along the transmission line. The peak find softkey quickly locates the
biggest discontinuity on the line.
Fast Field Repair
6820A has a modular architecture with modules slotted onto a
common mother board. In the event of a module failure the instrument can be repaired by module replacement to reduce instrument
downtime. Following a repair, software routines realign the replaced
module.
For the very latest specifications visit www.aeroflex.com
Manufacturing Test
To the production manager the 6820A offers reduced programming
time, reduced test time and simplified archiving of results. 6820A is
fully compliant with the IEEE 488.2 GPIB standard. A full 401 data
points can be transferred over the GPIB in typically <50 ms.
Individual data points can be repetitively read in typically 10 ms. This
enables full results archiving with minimal time penalty.
Continuity of test is essential in a production environment. A failed
test system can result in expensive loss of output. 6820A with its field
replaceable modules minimizes any output loss due to test system
failure.
Installing and Maintaining Systems
During the installation period of a microwave system it is always necessary to revalidate key parameters. 6820A provides a comprehensive
solution for installation teams. It is housed in a ruggedized case, has
secure handles and can be supplied with a protective carrying case.
For systems with long waveguide or coaxial feeds the 6820 is used by
the installation team to measure return loss and if necessary fault
location. The synthesized source with 1601 measurement points
ensures precise fault location measurements. AC Detection can be
used for return loss and fault location measurements in the presence
of interfering signals, a common cause of poor measurement performance in the field. In this mode the source output is chopped and
the resulting pulsed signal is demodulated and processed in such a
way that interference and zero drift are effectively cancelled.
By archiving results to external USB Flash Memory, or the internal
instrument memory, the 6820A forms the basis of a preventative
maintenance system. Experience shows that degradation in the
antenna feed is the major source of system field failures. 6820A has
the accuracy to monitor and identify gradual system degradation with
time.
Additionally, the synthesized microwave source may be used in conjunction with the optional step attenuators, to carry out system sensitivity tests. The internal pulse modulator and modulation options
with both single pulse and multi-pulse capability offers the ability to
perform tangential sensitivity and range tests for many different types
of radar systems
Results Logging and Outputting
Measurement results can either be saved to internal non-volatile
memory or to USB Flash Memory. Traces saved vis USB can then
be archived or imported into a spreadsheet for viewing.
SPECIFICATION
SOURCE
Functionality
Synthesized CW
Synthesized sweeper for use with scalar analyzer
CW Power sweep
External FM Modulation
Internal FM + Pulse driver (Option 23)
Internal Pulse Modulator (Option 25)
Frequency Range
6821A 1 MHz to 3 GHz
6822A 10 MHz to 8.4 GHz
6823A 10 MHz to 20 GHz
6824A 10 MHz to 24 GHz
6825A 10 MHz to 46 GHz
6825AR 10 MHz to 40 GHz
Resolution (Settable)
1 Hz to 46 GHz
CW Accuracy
(Frequency Standard error x Frequency) ± 10 Hz
Swept Accuracy (Typical)
300
µ
s Step Time
1 MHz to 3 GHz <20 kHz
3 GHz to 46 GHz <200 kHz
1 ms Step Time
1 MHz to 3 GHz <1 kHz
3 GHz to 46 GHz <10 kHz
10 ms Step Time
1 MHz to 3 GHz <100 Hz
3 GHz to 46 GHz <1 kHz
Levelled Power Range
6821A/2/3/4 standard
1 MHz to 3 GHz -10 dBm to +10 dBm
3 GHz to 24 GHz -10 dBm to +5 dBm
6825A & 6825AR
10 MHz to 8 GHz -10 dBm to +8 dBm +10 dBm typ
8 GHz to 20 GHz -10 dBm to +5 dBm +7 dBm typ
20 GHz to 24 GHz -10 dBm to +4 dBm +6 dBm typ
24 GHz to 40 GHz -10 dBm to 0 dBm +3 dBm typ
40 GHz to 46 GHz -10 dBm to 0 dBm typ*
* Excluding the effect of connector moding
6822A/3/4 + option 030 (higher power)
1 MHz to 24 GHz -10 dBm to +10 dBm
6821A + option 010 (110 dB Step Attenuator)
1 MHz to 3 GHz -120 dBm to +8 dBm
6822A/3 + option 011 (70 dB Step Attenuator)
10 MHz to 3 GHz -80 dBm to +8 dBm
3 GHz to 20 GHz -80 dBm to +2 dBm
+ option 030 (higher power)
3 GHz to 20 GHz -80 dBm to +7 dBm
6822A/3/4 + option 012 (90 dB Step Attenuator)
10 MHz to 3 GHz -100 dBm to +8 dBm
3 GHz to 24 GHz -100 dBm to +2 dBm
+ option 030 (higher power)
3 GHz to 24 GHz -100 dBm to +7 dBm
6825A & 6825AR + Option 013 (70 dB Step Attenuator)
10 MHz to 8 GHz -80 dBm to +6 dBm +8 dBm typ
8 GHz to 20 GHz -80 dBm to +2 dBm +4 dBm typ
20 GHz to 24 GHz -80 dBm to +1 dBm +3 dBm typ
24 GHz to 40 GHz -80 dBm to -3 dBm 0 dBm typ
Note: 1. For option 002 (Field Replaceable connectors) guaranteed
levelled output is reduced by 0.5 dB
2. For option 025, (internal pulse modulator) the guaranteed levelled
output is reduced as the option specification.
Settable Power Resolution
0.01 dB
Power Sweep Range (from Maximum Levelled Power) Without Attenuator
>20 dB (except when option 025, internal pulse modulation is fitted)
Internal Levelling Accuracy at 0 dBm (no options fitted, option 030)
1 MHz to 3 GHz, ±0.7 dB
3 GHz to 24 GHz, ±1.0 dB
24 GHz to 40 GHz, ±1.5 dB
Levelled Power Accuracy With Options 010, 012, 013
1 MHz to 3 GHz
<±1 dB (±0.3 dB or 2% of attenuator setting dB whichever is
greater)
3 GHz to 24 GHz
<±1 dB (±1 dB or 4% of attenuator setting in dB whichever is
greater)
24 GHz to 40 GHz
<±1.5 dB (±1.0 dB or 4% of attenuator setting in dB whichever is
greater)
Linearity (No Options Fitted, Option 030) Over Levelled Power Range
Relative to 0 dBm
1 MHz to 40 GHz <±0.5 dB
Power Stability With Temperature (Typical)
1 MHz to 40 GHz <0.1 dB/°C
Harmonics and Sub-Harmonics Over Levelled Power Range Harmonics
<70 MHz, <-25 dBc
70 MHz to 3 GHz, <-55 dBc
3GHz to 24GHz <-50 dBc
24 GHz to 40 GHz, <-20 dBc
Sub-Harmonics
10 MHz to 3 GHz <-60 dBc
3 GHz to 24 GHz None
24 GHz to 40 GHz <-40 dBc
Spurious Signals (Typical)
For carrier frequencies<375 MHz
Offset:
30 kHZ to 150 kHZ, <-50 dBc
>150KHz <-55dBc
For carrier frequencies>375 MHz
Offset:
30 kHz to 150 kHz, <-50 dBc
>150KHz <-60dBc
Phase Noise <dBc/Hz in CW mode
CW Freq Frequency offset
1 kHz 10 kHz 100kHz
0.25 GHz -86 -95 -108
0.5 GHz -98 -112 -134
1 GHZ -92 -106 -128
2 GHz -86 -100 -122
4 GHz -80 -92 -100
10 GHz -72 -84 -90
20 GHz -66 -78 -82
24 GHz -64 -76 -80
40 GHz -63 -75 -79
Source Match (Typical)
1 MHz to 3 GHz , <-15 dB
3 GHz to 20 GHz, <-10 dB
20 GHz to 40 GHz, <-8 dB
Output Connector
6821A/2/3; Precision N Type, female
6824A: Precision 3.5 mm, female
6825A: Precision 2.92 mm female
or optional field replaceable connectors
Modulation
External Frequency Modulation
Peak deviation (1 V peak input)
10 MHz - 375 MHz 1 kHz to 5 MHz
375 MHz - 750 MHz 250 Hz to 1.25 MHz
750 MHz - 1.5 GHz 500 Hz to 2.5 MHz
1.5 GHz - 3 GHz 1 kHz to 5 MHz
3 GHz - 46 GHz 20 kHz to 1 MHz
Accuracy (1 kHz modulating frequency) 20-400 kHz deviation
±3 % of indication ±1 Hz excluding residual FM
-3 dB bandwidth, AC coupled mode
10 MHz - 3 GHz <100 Hz to >1 MHz typical
3 GHz - 46 GHz <100 Hz to >500 kHz typical
-3 dB bandwidth, DC coupled mode
10 MHz - 3 GHz DC to >1 MHz typical
3 GHz - 46 GHz DC to >500 kHz typical
Option 023 Internal Modulation Generator
FM Source
Modulation signal sinewave, 0.1 Hz to 500 kHz, resolution 0.1 Hz
Other specifications as for External Frequency Modulation except:
Accuracy (1 kHz modulating frequency) 20-400 kHz deviation ±5 % of
indication ±1 Hz excluding residual FM
Pulse Generator Source
Modes Single Pulse, Pulse Pattern
Pulse Pattern Pulse patterns comprising up to 256
pulse width/ PRI pairs can be set up,
stored and recalled
Trigger Modes External, Internal continuous
Pulse Widths (PW) 120 ns to >1 second
Resolution 120 ns
Pulse Period (PRI) 240ns to 7 seconds (PRF <1 Hz to
4.16 MHz)
Resolution 120 ns
Pulse Delay Zero to 100 ms where zero is <120 ns
referred to trigger or sync pulse falling
edge
Resolution 120 ns
Sync Output 120 ns pulse referred to trigger. Available
at trigger socket
Inputs/Outputs
Trigger in/out Rear panel BNC connector provides
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