Keysight 11970 Series, 11970K, 11970A, 11970Q, 11970U User Manual

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Keysight 11970 Series Harmonic Mixers

User’s Guide

Notices

CAUTION

WARNING

any form or by any means (including electronic storage and retrieval or translation into a foreign language) without prior agreement and written consent from Keysight Technologies as governed by United States and international copyright laws.

Manual Part Number

11970-90040

Edition

Edition 3, October 31, 2019

Printed in:

Printed in Malaysia

Published by:

Keysight Technologies Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, 11900 Penang, Malaysia

Technology Licenses

The hard ware and/or software described in this document are furnished under a license and may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license.

Declaration of Conformity

Declarations of Conformity for this product and for other Keysight products may be downloaded from the Web. Go to http://www.key-

sight.com/go/conformity. You can then search

by product number to find the latest Declaration of Conformity.

U.S. Government Rights

The Software is “commercial computer software,” as defined by Federal Acquisition Regulation (“FAR”) 2.101. Pursuant to FAR 12.212 and 27.405-3 and Department of Defense FAR Supplement (“DFARS”) 227.7202, the U.S. government acquires commercial computer software under the same terms by which the software is customarily provided to the public. Accordingly, Keysight provides the Software to U.S. government customers under its standard commercial license, which is embodied in its End User License Agreement (EULA), a copy of which can be found at http://www.key-

sight.com/find/sweula. The license set forth in

the EULA represents the exclusive authority by which the U.S. government may use, modify, distribute, or disclose the Software. The EULA and the license set forth therein, does not require or permit, among other things, that Keysight: (1) Furnish technical information related to commercial computer software or commercial computer software documentation that is not customarily provided to the public; or (2) Relinquish to, or otherwise provide, the government rights in excess of these rights customarily provided to the public to use, modify, reproduce, release, perform, d isplay, or disclose commercial computer software or commercial computer software documentation. No additional government requirements beyond those set forth in the EULA shall apply, except to the extent that those terms, rights, or licenses are explicitly required from all providers of commercial computer software pursuant to the FAR and the DFARS and are set forth specifically in writing elsewhere in the EULA. Keysight shall be under no obligation to update, revise or otherwise modify the Software. With respect to any technical data as defined by FAR 2.101, pursuant to FAR 12.211 and 27.404.2 and DFARS 227.7102, the U.S. government acquires no greater than Limited Rights as defined in FAR 27.401 or DFAR 227.7103-5 (c), as applicable in any technical data.

Warranty

THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS,” AND IS SUBJECT TO BEING CHANGED, WITHOUT NOTICE, IN FUTURE EDITIONS. FURTHER, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, KEYSIGHT DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH REGARD TO THIS MANUAL AND ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. KEYSIGHT SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ERRORS OR FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH THE FURNISHING, USE, OR PERFORMANCE OF THIS DOCUMENT OR OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. SHOULD KEYSIGHT AND THE USER HAVE A SEPARATE WRITTEN AGREEMENT WITH WARRANTY TERMS COVERING THE MATERIAL IN THIS DOCUMENT THAT CONFLICT WITH THESE TERMS, THE WARRANTY TERMS IN THE SEPARATE AGREEMENT SHALL CONTROL.

Safety Information

A CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to the product or loss of important data. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

A WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in personal injury or death. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

2 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

This instrument complies with the WEEE Directive marking requirement. This affixed product label indicates that you must not discard this electrical or electronic product in domestic household waste.

Product category:

With reference to the equipment types in the WEEE directive Annex 1, this instrument is classified as a “Monitoring and Control Instrument” product.

The affixed product label is as shown below.

Do not dispose in domestic household waste.

To return this unwanted instrument, contact your nearest Keysight Service Center, or visit http://

about.keysight.com/en/companyinfo/environment/takeback.shtml for more information.

Sales and Technical Support

To contact Keysight for sales and technical support, refer to the support links on the following Keysight websites:

– www.keysight.com/find/mta

(product-specific information and support, software and documentation updates)

– www.keysight.com/find/assist

(worldwide contact information for repair and service)

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 3

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4 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Product category: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Sales and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

List of Figures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

List of Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

1 General Information

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Equipment supplied . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Mixers covered by manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

11970 Series harmonic mixers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Spectrum analyzer retrofit requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Environmental limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

2Operation

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Operating precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Mixer connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Set up the equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using the Mixers with the E4440A, E4446A, or E4448A PSA Series Spectrum

Analyzer (Option AYZ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Set up the equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9030A and N9010A

X-Series Signal Analyzers (Option EXM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Set up the equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Amplitude calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Signal ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Image shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9040B X- Series Signal

Analyzer (Option EXM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Set up the equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Amplitude calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Signal ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Image shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 5

Set up the equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Select the frequency band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Save the average conversion-loss value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Signal identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Identify signals with the frequency-shift method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Identify signals in wide frequency spans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Preliminary operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Conversion loss versus frequency correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Set up the equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Amplitude calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Signal identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

3Service

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

6 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

List of Figures

Figure 1-1 11970 Series harmonic mixers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Figure 1-2 Mixer connection kit, Option 009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Figure 1-3 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Figure 2-1 Harmonic mixer setup (E4407B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Figure 2-2 Multiple signal responses (E4407B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Figure 2-3 Valid signal responses (E4407B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Figure 2-4 Harmonic mixer setup (E4440A/ E4446A/ E4448A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Figure 2-5 Multiple signal responses (E4440A/ E4446A/ E4448A) . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Figure 2-6 Valid signal responses (E4440A/ E4446A/ E4448A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Figure 2-7 External mixer setup (N9030A/ N9010A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Figure 2-8 External mixer setup (N9040B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Figure 2-9 Multiple signal responses (N9040B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Figure 2-10 Valid signal responses (N9040B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Figure 2-11 Loading the conversion loss files to the corrections array . . . . . . . . . 45

Figure 2-12 External mixed setup (856X) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Figure 2-13 Select the band of interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Figure 2-14 Store and correct for conversion loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Figure 2-15 Signal responses produced by a 50 GHz signal in U band . . . . . . . . . 52

Figure 2-16 Response for invalid signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Figure 2-17 Response for valid signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Figure 2-18 SIG ID AT MKR performed on an image signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Figure 2-19 SIG ID AT MKR performed on a true signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Figure 2-20 Keysight 11970 connections to the Keysight 71000 series spectrum

Figure 2-21 External mixer connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Figure 2-22 Typical milimeter signal display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Figure 2-23 Calibration sheet 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Figure 2-24 Calibration sheet 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

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8 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

List of Tables

Table 1-1 Option EXM on N9030A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Table 1-2 Option EXM on N9010A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Table 1-3 11970 Series specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Table 1-4 11970K specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Table 1-5 11970A specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Table 1-6 11970Q specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Table 1-7 11970U specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Table 1-8 11970V specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Table 1-9 11970W specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Table 1-10 Physical characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Table 2-1 External mixer frequency ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Table 2-2 External mixing bands and associated mixing harmonics . . . . . . . . . . 57

Table 2-3 Frequency ranges and corresponding harmonic numbers . . . . . . . . . 59

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 9

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10 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Keysight 11970 Series Harmonic Mixers User’s Guide

1 General Information

Introduction 12 Specifications 16

This chapter covers equipment supplied, the mixers and options that are covered in this manual, as well as specifications and environmental limitations regarding the mixer.

1 General Information

Introduction

The Keysight Models 11970K, 11970A, 11970Q, 11970U, 11970V, and 11970W are general-purpose harmonic mixers with very flat frequency response characteristics and low conversion loss. Collectively, they cover the frequency range of 18 to 110 GHz. The 11970K covers the 18 - 26.5 GHz range; the 11970A, the 26.5 - 40 GHz range; the 11970Q, the 33 - 50 GHz range; the 11970U, the 40 - 60 GHz range; the 11970V, the 50 - 75 GHz range; and the 11970W, the 75 - 110 GHz range.

The overall local oscillator (LO) frequency range of the 11970 Series Mixers is 3.0 to 6.1 GHz. Each of the mixers employs a different LO harmonic, and as a result has a different optimum LO range within the overall LO range of the series.

An 8 1/2 by 11 inch conversion loss table and chart is included with each mixer shipment. There is also electronic media included that is used to download the conversion loss data into a few of the Spectrum Analyzers documented in this user’s guide. This conversion loss data table must be employed for absolute amplitude measurements. Also supplied with each mixer are five screws (four required) for attaching the mixer RF input flange to the waveguide.

Equipment supplied

Waveguide connector screws

Five hex-head screws are supplied with each mixer. Four are required to make the mixer-to-waveguide connection, one is a spare. Use ONLY the screws supplied to attach the mixer to the waveguide. Because of slight differences in the way the mixers couple with the waveguide, the square-flange mixers (11970K and 11970A) and the round-flange mixer (11970Q, 11970U, 11970V and 11970W) require different screws.

If your mixer has a square waveguide flange, use four hex-head screws with Part Number 3030-0221. If it has a round waveguide flange, use four hex-head captive screws with Part Number 1390-0671. The special balldriver hex screwdriver available in the Option 009 Mixer Connector Kit simplifies installation of the waveguide connector screws.

Mixers covered by manual

Serial numbers

Attached to your mixer is a label, which shows both the mixer model number and its serial number (two parts). The first four digits and the letter of the serial number are the serial number prefix; the last five digits are the suffix.

12 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

11970 Series harmonic mixers

Figure 1-1 11970 Series harmonic mixers

General Information 1

Options

Option 009, shown in Figure 1-2, is a Mixer Connection Kit. It includes three low-loss SMA cables (Part Number 11970-60013), one hex-head balldriver (Part Number 8710-0523) for tightening the waveguide connector screws, and one 5/16-inch open-end wrench (Part Number 8710-0510) for use on the SMA connectors.

Spectrum analyzer retrofit requirements

– N9010A, N9030A, or N9040B signal analyzers

– A diplexer is required since the N9030A has a single SMA external mixer port, and the 11970

Series mixers have separate LO and IF ports. The recommended diplexer can be purchased from

Keysight as p/n N9029AE13 or from OML Inc. as p/n DPL.313B.

– Requires Option EXM

– USB storage device (>2GB free memory)

– Does not support the 11970K (LO range limitation).

To retrofit Option EXM on N9030A:

Table 1-1 Option EXM on N9030A

N9030A frequency Option

550, 544, or 543 N9030AK-EXM

503, 508, 513, or 526 N9030AK-HL6

Serial number prefix

<MY/US/SG5138 <MY/US/SG5138

N9030AK-EXM

– Software revision must be A.08.01 or later

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 13

1 General Information

NOTE

To retrofit Option EXM on N9010A:

Tab le 1-2 Option EXM on N9010A

N9010A frequency Option Upgrade kit

532 or 544 N9010AK-EXM

503, 507, 513, or 526 N/A

– Software revision must be A.10.52 or later

All N9040B signal analyzers contain Option EXM.

Software revision must be A.15.05 or later.

– PSA Series E4440A, E4446A, and E4448A spectrum analyzers require Option AYZ (LO OUT and

IF IN connectors). The E4443A and E4445A do not support external mixing.

– 856x Series portable spectrum analyzers with Options 002 (tracking generator) and 327 (no IF

IN on front panel) do not have external mixing capability.

– 856x Series Portable Spectrum Analyzers require Option 008, or FW date code. 920528, for

signal identification functionality.

– Keysight E4407B spectrum analyzers require Option AYZ (LO Out and IF IN connections).

– MMS analyzers using 11970 Series mixers must have a front end model 70907A, 70907B,

70909A, or 70910A, as well as a 70900A/B with firmware new enough for those modules:

Model

70907A

70907B

70909A

70910A

FW date code (or newer)

– 860203

– 900314

– 910802

– The 11970 Series Mixers are fully compatible with all 8566B Spectrum Analyzers.

14 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

General Information 1

LOW-LOSS SMA CABLE

PART NUMBER 11970-60013

5/16-INCH OPEN-END WRENCH

PART NUMBER 8710-0510

BALL DRIVER PART NUMBER

8710-0523

Figure 1-2 Mixer connection kit, Option 009

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 15

1 General Information

NOTE

Specifications

Specifications for the 11970 Series mixers are listed in Table 1-3 on page 16 through Tab le 1-9 on page 22.

Supplemental information is included only as additional information; they are not specifications. Nominal values indicate expected performance or describe product performance that is not covered by the product warranty.

Environmental limitations

The 11970 Series mixers meet or exceed the environmental requirements of MIL-T-28800C, Type III, Class 3, Style C. Specific environmental qualifications for the mixers are as follows:

Temperature, non-operating: -40°C to 75°C

Temperature, operating: 0°C to 55°C

Relative humidity: 95 ± 5% (up to 30°C)

Altitude, non-operating: Less than 12,195 meters (40,000 ft.)

Altitude, operating: Less than 3,048 meters (10,000 ft.)

Maximum vibration levels: 2 G's at 5 to 2000 Hz

Maximum shock: 30 G's

Unless otherwise stated, all specifications apply for an IF range of 300 to 322.5 MHz as required by the various spectrum analyzers covered in this user’s guide. Also, the specifications only apply with RF input levels of less than -20 dBm.

Tab le 1-3 11970 Series specifications

Description Specifications Supplemental information

LO amplitude range 14 to 18 dBm

Bias requirements None

Maximum CW RF input level 20 dBm (100 mW)

Maximum peak pulse power

3 dB bandwid th DC to 1.3 GHz

Environmental Meets MIL-T-28800C, Type III, Class 3, Style C

IF/LO connectors SMA female

11970-60013 Cable Insertion Loss

24 dBm with <1msec pulse (average power: +20 dBm)

Max. 1.5 dB at 2 to 6 GHz Typical 0.23 dB at 322.5 or 321.4 MHz

16 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

General Information 1

Table 1-4 11970K specifications

Description Specifications Supplemental information

RF frequency range 18 to 26.5 GHz

LO harmonic number 6

Odd order mixing product suppression >20 dB (nominal)

LO input frequency range 2.95 to 4.36 GHz

Gain compression level (<1 dB) –3 dBm (nominal)

Maximum conversion loss 24 dB

Calibration accuracy

[a]

The 11970K is not supported by the N9030A (PXA)

±2.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 14.5 to

16.0 dBm (nominal) ±3.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 16 to

18.0 dBm (nominal)

Spectrum analyzer absolute amplitude accuracy (using conversion loss data with 14.5 to 16.0 dBm LO)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.5 to 16.0 dBm)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.0 to 18.0 dBm)

±1.9 dB

±2.8 dB

±3.2 dB + frequency response of the mixer (nominal)

Displayed average noise level RBW = 1 kHz RBW Sample detector

–105 dBm (nominal)

Conversion loss corrections on LO power

14.5 to 16 dBm

Input SWR <2.2:1 (nominal)

[a] Calibration accuracy is defined as the difference between the actual mixer conversion loss and the calibration values provided with the

mixer.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 17

1 General Information

Tab le 1-5 11970A specifications

Description Specifications Supplemental information

RF frequency range 26.5 to 40 GHz

LO harmonic number 8

Odd order mixing product suppression >20 dB (nominal)

LO input frequency range

Gain compression level (<1 dB) -5 dBm (nominal)

Maximum conversion loss 26 dB

Calibration accuracy

[a]

3.27 to 4.96 GHz

±2.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 14.5 to

[b]

16.0 dBm (nominal) ±3.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 16 to

18.0 dBm (nominal)

Spectrum analyzer absolute amplitude accuracy (using conversion loss data with 14.5 to 16.0 dBm LO)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.5 to 16.0 dBm)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.0 to 18.0 dBm)

Displayed average noise level RBW = 1 kHz RBW Sample detector Conversion loss corrections on LO power

14.5 to 16 dBm

±1.9 dB

±2.8 dB

±3.2 dB + frequency response of the mixer (nominal)

-102 dBm (nominal) For N9030A:

26.5 to 30.45 GHz: –110 dBm (nominal) >30.45 to 40 GHz: –108 dBm (nominal)

Input SWR <2.2:1 (nominal)

[a] When used with the N9030A, harmonic 6 and harmonic 8 used are dependent on the start and stop frequencies. Harmonic 6 is used from

26.5 to 30.45 GHz and harmonic 8 is used above 30.45 GHz.

[b] Calibration accuracy is defined as the difference between the actual mixer conversion loss and the calibration values provided with the

mixer.

18 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

General Information 1

Table 1-6 11970Q specifications

Description Specifications Supplemental information

RF frequency range 33 to 50 GHz

LO harmonic number 10

Odd order mixing product suppression >20 dB (nominal)

LO input frequency range

[a]

Gain compression level (<1 dB) -7 dBm (nominal)

Maximum conversion loss 28 dB

Calibration accuracy

[b]

3.27 to 4.96 GHz

±2.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 14.5 to

16.0 dBm (nominal) ±3.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 16 to

18.0 dBm (nominal)

Spectrum analyzer absolute amplitude accuracy (using conversion loss data with 14.5 to 16.0 dBm LO)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.5 to 16.0 dBm)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.0 to 18.0 dBm)

Displayed average noise level RBW = 1 kHz RBW Sample detector Conversion loss corrections on LO power

14.5 to 16 dBm

±1.9 dB

±2.8 dB

±3.2 dB + frequency response of the mixer (nominal)

-101 dBm (nominal) For N9030A: 33 to 40 GHz: –108 dBm (nominal) >40 to 50 GHz: –106 dBm (nominal)

Input SWR <2.2:1 (nominal)

[a] When used with the N9030A, harmonic 8 and harmonic 10 used are dependent on the start and stop frequencies. Harmonic 8 is used from

33 to 40 GHz and harmonic 10 is used above 40 GHz.

[b] Calibration accuracy is defined as the difference between the actual mixer conversion loss and the calibration values provided with the

mixer.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 19

1 General Information

Tab le 1-7 11970U specifications

Description Specifications Supplemental information

RF frequency range 40 to 60 GHz

LO harmonic number 10

Odd order mixing product suppression >20 dB (nominal)

LO input frequency range 3.97 to 5.97 GHz

Gain compression level (<1 dB) -7 dBm (nominal)

Maximum conversion loss 28 dB

Calibration accuracy

±2.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 14.5 to

[a]

16.0 dBm (nominal) ±3.0 dB with LO amplitude range of 16 to

18.0 dBm (nominal)

Spectrum analyzer absolute amplitude accuracy (using conversion loss data with 14.5 to 16.0 dBm LO)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.5 to 16.0 dBm)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.0 to 18.0 dBm)

±1.9 dB

±2.8 dB

±3.2 dB + frequency response of the mixer (nominal)

Displayed average noise level RBW = 1 kHz RBW Sample detector Conversion loss corrections on LO power

-101 dBm (nominal) For N9030A: 40 to 60 GHz: –106 dBm (nominal)

14.5 to 16 dBm

Input SWR <2.2:1 (nominal)

[a] Calibration accuracy is defined as the difference between the actual mixer conversion loss and the calibration values provided with the

mixer.

20 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

General Information 1

Table 1-8 11970V specifications

Description Specifications Supplemental information

RF frequency range 50 to 75 GHz

LO harmonic number

[a]

Odd order mixing product suppression >15 dB (nominal)

LO input frequency range 3.55 to 5.33 GHz

Gain compression level (<1 dB) -3 dBm (nominal)

Maximum conversion loss 40 dB

Calibration accuracy

[b]

±2.2 dB with LO amplitude range of 14.5 to

16.0 dBm (nominal) ±3.2 dB with LO amplitude range of 16 to

18.0 dBm (nominal)

Spectrum analyzer absolute amplitude accuracy (using conversion loss data with 14.5 to 16.0 dBm LO)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.5 to 16.0 dBm)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.0 to 18.0 dBm)

Displayed noise level RBW = 1 kHz RBW Sample detector Conversion loss corrections on LO power

14.5 to 16 dBm

±2.1 dB

±2.8 dB

±3.4 dB + frequency response of the mixer (nominal)

–92 dBm (nominal) For N9030A: 50 to 66 GHz: –96 dBm (nominal) >66to 75 GHz: –94 dBm (nominal)

Input SWR <2.6:1 (nominal)

[a] When used with the N9030A, harmonic 12 and harmonic 14 used are dependent on the start and stop frequencies. Harmonic 12 is used

from 50 to 66 GHz and harmonic 14 is used above 66 GHz.

[b] Calibration accuracy is defined as the difference between the actual mixer conversion loss and the calibration values provided with the

mixer.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 21

1 General Information

Tab le 1-9 11970W specifications

Description Specifications Supplemental information

RF frequency range 75 to 110 GHz

LO harmonic number 18

Odd order mixing product suppression >15 dB (nominal)

LO input frequency range 4.15 to 6.09 GHz

Gain compression level (<1 dB) -1 dBm (nominal)

Maximum conversion loss 46 dB

Calibration accuracy

±2.2 dB with LO amplitude range of 14.5 to

[a]

16.0 dBm (nominal) ±3.2 dB with LO amplitude range of 16 to

18.0 dBm (nominal)

Spectrum analyzer absolute amplitude accuracy (using conversion loss data with 14.5 to 16.0 dBm LO)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.5 to 16.0 dBm)

Frequency response (with LO input power 14.0 to 18.0 dBm)

±3.0 dB

±4.0 dB

±3.4 dB + frequency response of the mixer (nominal)

Displayed noise level RBW = 1 kHz RBW Sample detector Conversion loss corrections on LO power

-85 dBm (nominal) For N9030A: 75 to 110 GHz: -88 dBm (nominal)

14.5 to 16 dBm

Input SWR <2.6:1 (nominal)

[a] Calibration accuracy is defined as the difference between the actual mixer conversion loss and the calibration values provided with the

mixer.

22 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Table 1-10 Physical characteristics

General Information 1

Model

11970K

11970A

11970Q

11970U

11970V

11970W

[a] Waveguide attachment screws enter blind holes in the flanges of the mixers.

[a]

Flange

UG-595/U WR-42

UG-599/U WR-28

UG-383/U WR-22

UG-383/U-M WR-19

UG-385/U WR-15

UG-387/U-M WR-10

Weight X Y Z

0.17 kg

0.36 lb

0.14 kg

0.32 lb

0.14 kg

0.32 lb

0.14 kg

0.32 lb

0.14 kg

0.32 lb

0.14 kg

0.32 lb

36 mm

1.4 in

36 mm

1.4 in

36 mm

1.4 in

36 mm

1.4 in

36 mm

1.4 in

36 mm

1.4 in

51 mm

2.0 in

51 mm

2.0 in

51 mm

2.0 in

51 mm

2.0 in

51 mm

2.0 in

51 mm

2.0 in

90 mm

3.5 in

71 mm

2.8 in

76 mm

3.0 in

76 mm

3.0 in

76 mm

3.0 in

76 mm

3.0 in

Figure 1-3 Dimensions

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 23

1 General Information

THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

24 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Keysight 11970 Series Harmonic Mixers User’s Guide

2 Operation

Introduction 26 Getting Started 27 Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) 28 Using the Mixers with the E4440A, E4446A, or E4448A PSA Series Spectrum Analyzer (Option

AYZ) 32

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9030A and N9010A X- Series Signal

Analyzers (Option EXM) 36

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9040B X- Series Signal Analyzer (Option

EXM) 41 Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers 48 Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers 55 Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer 62

This chapter provides information on how to make effective use of the 11970 mixers.

2Operation

WARNING

Introduction

This section provides information on how to make effective use of the 11970 mixers.

Operating precautions

Refer to the sections below for specific parameters to follow prior to mixer operation.

Do not exceed the maximum ratings listed below or permanent damage to the mixer will result.

RF input power

Use the following parameters:

CW: No greater than 20 dBm. See Gain Compression values for each model number. Use an appropriate waveguide attenuator if the output power of the unit under test exceeds the gain compression value.

Pulse: No greater than 24 dBm at < 1 msec pulse width

Average: No greater than 20 dBm

LO input power

Make sure the LO input power is no greater than 20 dBm.

Electrostatic discharge

When installing the mixer, you must always connect the SMA cables to the spectrum analyzer BEFORE connecting them to the mixer. This will minimize the danger of an electrostatic discharge damaging the mixer diodes.

Waveguide protective foam

Do not remove, displace, or damage the white, non-conductive foam installed in the open end of the waveguide. The foam keeps small objects from entering the waveguide.

Avoiding mechanical damage

Leave the waveguide flange cap on whenever the mixer is not connected to a device under test. This protects the flange mating surface from scratches, which can degrade the mixer's performance.

26 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Getting Started

NOTE

The 11970 series of millimeter wave mixers have no bias or back-short adjustments. 11970 Mixers require an LO power of 14 to 18 dBm at the LO input.

Mixer connections

This chapter contains connection and operation information listed by Spectrum Analyzer model number.

If you are using an 11970Q, 11970U, 11970V or 11970W Mixer, and the shoulder of its waveguide flange is not properly aligned with the flange of the device under test, amplitude measurement errors can result. To ensure proper alignment, tighten each of the four flange screws in turn by small amounts, moving clockwise around the flange.

11970K and 11970A mixers require flange screws that are different from those used with the 11970Q, 11970U, 11970V and 11970W; 11970K and 11970A use Part Number 3030-0221 (#4-40 hex head screw). 11970Q, 11970U, 11970V and 11970W use Part Number 1390-0671 (#4-40 hex head captive screw).

Operation 2

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 27

2Operation

NOTE

Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ)

The Keysight Technologies E4407B spectrum analyzer contains an extensive menu of functions that help with millimeter measurements. The following examples explain how to connect external mixers to the spectrum analyzer, choose the band of interest, store and activate conversion-loss factors, and how to use the signal-identification functions.

Set up the equipment

1 Connect the signal source and harmonic mixer to the analyzer, as shown in Figure 2-1.

Figure 2-1 Harmonic mixer setup (E4407B)

Keysight 11970-60013 SMA type cables should be used to connect the mixer IF and LO ports to the analyzer. Do not over-tighten the cables. The maximum torque should not exceed 112 N-cm (10 in-lb.)

2 On the analyzer, press Preset, Factory Preset, if present.

3 Select external mixing by pressing Input/Output, Input Mixer, Input Mixer (Ext).

4 The analyzer frequency band will be set to 26.5 - 40 GHz (A). To choose a different band, press

Ext Mix Band, then press the desired band frequency range/letter key. For this example, we will

use band A, which ranges from 36.5 GHz to 40 GHz.

28 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

NOTE

Amplitude calibration

The conversion loss versus frequency data can be entered on your analyzer from one of three sources.

–From a Conversion Loss Data Disk, supplied with your mixer.

– Data from the calibration sheet supplied with your mixer. The 11970A, Q, and V band mixers

calibrated after May 2011 have two calibration sheets. Use the sheet that contains the text "Not for use with the Keysight X-Series Signal Analyzers’. An example of the calibration sheet is shown in Figure 2-24.

– From conversion-loss data located on the mixer body label.

Using a conversion-loss data disk

The conversion-loss data for your mixer can be quickly loaded in the memory of an ESA or PSA series analyzer from a floppy disk. The following process works with the floppy disk provided by the factory with your new mixer, or with one that you have stored the correction data. This process eliminates the time consuming and sometimes error-prone process of manually entering the data from a table.

Loading data

1 Insert the conversion-loss data disk (from the factory or your own) into the floppy drive of the

analyzer.

2 Press File, then Load.

3 Press Type, More, then select Corrections.

4 Press Directory Select, highlight drive -A-, then press Directory Select again.

5 Use the down arrow to select the file. The factory supplied disk has a file with the OTH

extension which places the data in the corrections set “other” location.

6 Press Load Now to load the conversion loss values into the correction table of the analyzer.

Viewing data

1 Press Amplitude, More, Corrections, Other (ON) and Edit to view the correction values.

2 Use the front-panel knob or up/down arrows to scroll through the list of correction values.

Manually entering conversion-loss data

1 The analyzer frequency band will be set to 26.5 – 40 GHz (A). To choose a different band, press

Ext Mix Band and then press the desired band frequency range/letter key. For this example, we

will use band A, which ranges from 26.5 GHz to 40 GHz.

To correct for the conversion-loss of the harmonic mixer in use, the analyzer amplitude correction feature is used.

2 Press AMPLITUDE Y Scale, More, Corrections. Select a correction set for use with external

mixing. The recommended set to use is Other although any available set could be used.

3 Press Edit to enter the appropriate conversion loss data for the mixer in use. These values are

listed on the mixer, or a calibration sheet that is supplied with the mixer.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 29

2Operation

NOTE

More correction points entered across the band in use will improve frequency response accuracy. Up to 200 points may be defined for each set.

4 Once the desired correction points are entered, press Return, Correction (On) to activate

Signal identification

The IF output of a harmonic mixer will contain a signal at the intermediate frequency of the analyzer whenever the harmonic frequency of the LO and the frequency of the RF differ by the intermediate frequency.

As a result, within a single harmonic band, a single input signal can produce multiple responses on the analyzer display, only one of which is valid (see Figure 2-2). These responses come in pairs, where members of the valid response pair are separated by 642.8 MHz and either the right-most (for negative harmonics) or left-most (for positive harmonics) member of the pair is the correct response.

correction set Other. This will also turn corrections on resulting in a calibrated display. It is recommended that the correction set entered be saved on the internal memory or the floppy drive for future reference. See the ESA User’s and Programmer’s Reference guide for information on saving correction values.

Figure 2-2 Multiple signal responses (E4407B)

Identification of valid responses is achieved by simply turning on the signal-identification feature. (instrument preset selects the Image Suppress signal identification mode.) Press Input/Output, Input Mixer, Signal Ident (On) and note that now only the valid response (35 GHz) remains.

Press Peak Search to place a marker on the remaining response. The signal-identification routine can introduce slight amplitude errors which is indicated by the message Signal Ident On, Amptd Uncal. Refer to Figure 2-3.

30 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

After identifying a signal of interest, press Signal Ident (Off) before making final amplitude measurements. Note that Image Suppress should only be used to identify the fundamental signal and not for accurate amplitude measurements.

Figure 2-3 Valid signal responses (E4407B)

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 31

2Operation

Keysight 11970 SERIES

HARMONIC MIXER

NOTE

Using the Mixers with the E4440A, E4446A, or E4448A PSA Series Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ)

The Keysight Technologies PSA Series spectrum analyzers contain an extensive menu of functions that help with millimeter measurements. Prior to starting this procedure, refer to “Spectrum

analyzer retrofit requirements” on page 13 for instrument requirements for the PSA Series

spectrum analyzers.

The following examples explain how to connect external mixers to the spectrum analyzer, choose the band of interest, store and activate conversion-loss factors, and how to use the signal-identification functions.

Set up the equipment

1 Connect the signal source and harmonic mixer to the analyzer, as shown in Figure 2-4.

Figure 2-4 Harmonic mixer setup (E4440A/ E4446A/ E4448A)

Keysight 11970-60013 SMA type cables should be used to connect the mixer IF and LO ports to the analyzer. Do not over-tighten the cables. The maximum torque should not exceed 112 N-cm (10 in-lb.).

2 On the analyzer, press Preset, Factory Preset, if present.

3 Select external mixing by pressing Input/Output, Input Mixer, Input Mixer (Ext).

4 The analyzer frequency band will be set to 26.5 - 40 GHz (A). To choose a different band, press

Ext Mix Band, then press the desired band frequency range/letter key. For this example, we will

use band A, which ranges from 36.5 GHz to 40 GHz.

32 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

NOTE

Amplitude calibration

The conversion loss versus frequency data can be entered on your analyzer from one of three sources.

–From a Conversion Loss Data Disk, supplied with your mixer. See “Using a conversion-loss data

disk” on page 29.

– Data from the calibration sheet supplied with your mixer. The 11970A, Q, and V band mixers

calibrated after May 2011 have two calibration sheets. Use the sheet that contains the text ‘Not for use with the Keysight X-Series Signal Analyzers’. An example of the calibration sheet is shown in Figure 2-24.

– From conversion-loss data located on the mixer body label.

Using a conversion-loss data disk

Loading data

1 Insert the conversion-loss data disk (from the factory or your own) into the floppy drive of the

analyzer.

2 Press File, then Load.

3 Press Type, More, then select Corrections.

4 Press Directory Select, highlight drive -A-, then press Directory Select again.

5 Use the down arrow to select the file. The factory supplied disk has a file with the OTH

extension which places the data in the corrections set “other” location.

6 Press Load Now to load the conversion loss values into the correction table of the analyzer.

Viewing data

1 Press Amplitude, More, Corrections, Other (ON) and Edit to view the correction values.

2 Use the front-panel knob or up/down arrows to scroll through the list of correction values.

Manually entering conversion-loss data

1 The analyzer frequency band will be set to 26.5 - 40 GHz (A). To choose a different band, press

Ext Mix Band and then press the desired band frequency range/letter key. For this example, we

will use band A, which ranges from 26.5 GHz to 40 GHz.

To correct for the conversion-loss of the harmonic mixer in use, the analyzer amplitude correction feature is used.

2 Press AMPLITUDE Y Scale, More, Corrections. Select a correction set for use with external

mixing. The recommended set to use is Other although any available set could be used.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 33

2Operation

NOTE

3 Press Edit to enter the appropriate conversion loss data for the mixer in use. These values are

More correction points entered across the band in use will improve frequency response accuracy. Up to 200 points may be defined for each set.

4 Once the desired correction points are entered, press Return, Correction (On) to activate

Signal identification

As a result, within a single harmonic band, a single input signal can produce multiple responses on the analyzer display, only one of which is valid (see Figure 2-5). These responses come in pairs, where members of the valid response pair are separated by 642.8 MHz and either the right-most (for negative harmonics) or left-most (for positive harmonics) member of the pair is the correct response.

listed on the mixer, or a calibration sheet that is supplied with the mixer.

correction set Other. This will also turn corrections on resulting in a calibrated display. It is recommended that the correction set entered be saved on the internal memory or the floppy drive for future reference. See the PSA User’s and Programmer’s Reference guide for information on saving correction values.

Figure 2-5 Multiple signal responses (E4440A/ E4446A/ E4448A)

Press Peak Search to place a marker on the remaining response. Refer to Figure 2-6.

34 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

Figure 2-6 Valid signal responses (E4440A/ E4446A/ E4448A)

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 35

2Operation

NOTE

Keysight 11970 SERIES

HARMONIC MIXER

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9030A and N9010A X-Series Signal Analyzers (Option EXM)

Refer to “Spectrum analyzer retrofit requirements” on page 13 for configuration requirements.

The following examples explain how to connect the external mixers to the signal analyzer using a diplexer, choose the band of interest, activate conversion loss correction data, and how to use the signal-identification functions.

Set up the equipment

1 Connect the signal source, diplexer, and harmonic mixer to the signal analyzer as shown in

Figure 2-7.

The maximum torque for the SMA cables and adapters should not exceed 122 N-cm (10 in-lb.)

Figure 2-7 External mixer setup (N9030A/ N9010A)

2 On the analyzer press Mode, Spectrum Analyzer.

3 Select external mixing by pressing Input/Output, External Mixer, External Mixer, External

Mixer Setup.

4 The default is 11970A. To select Q, U, V or W bands, press Mixer Presets, Keysight 11970, then

select the appropriate key corresponding to 11970 frequency band.

5 Press Return twice to view the spectrum display.

6 Tune the analyzer to the input signal frequency by pressing FREQ Channel, and enter a center

frequency or a start and stop frequency.

36 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

7 Many responses may appear on screen. Turn on the Signal ID function to identify true signals

NOTE

from images and harmonics.

Press Input Output, External Mixer, Signal ID Mode, Image Suppress, Signal ID On.

See “Signal ID” on page 39 for more information.

Amplitude calibration

1 See Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer below. This will guide you through

entering the conversion loss data provided with the mixer, into a corrections file that can be activated to provide amplitude corrected measurements.

2 To access corrections, press Input/ Output, More, Corrections, Select Correction.

3 Chose a correction from the list. Note that you used one of the Corrections numbered 1-6 when

you entered the conversion loss data into the instrument.

4 Press Correction On to apply the corrections to the measurement.

Assure only ONE correction file is turned on because it is possible to turn on multiple correction files, and if some of the files share the same frequency points, the correction that results for those shared frequency points will cause measurement errors. Therefore assure that only the correction file required for the measurement is turned on, and turn off all other corrections.

Operation 2

Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer

The conversion loss data supplied with your mixer can be loaded into your signal analyzer from one of two sources:

– By downloading the 70xxxxxx_X.csv file located on the CD ROM disk that is provided with your

mixer. The 70xxxxxx_X.csv file is transferred from the CD to a USB memory device, and then the USB memory device inserted into the PXA, and the file transferred to one of the analyzer corrections array locations. The USB memory device should be scanned for viruses before use.

– The mixer ships with a printed copy of the conversion loss data. Find the printed copy

conversion loss data that has the text "For Use with Keysight X-Series analyzers only". The conversion loss data will need to be manually entered as frequency and amplitude pairs into the analyzer corrections file. An example of calibration data is shown Figure 2-23.

The CD also contains 70xxxxxx_X.pdf files of the conversion loss data that can be printed, and then manually entered into a Correction array location. You will need to enter the frequency and amplitude pairs into the analyzer corrections file. An example of calibration data is shown

Figure 2-23.

Downloading the conversion loss .csv files to the analyzer corrections array

1 Install the CD ROM provided with the mixer, into a PC and view the contents of the CD.

2 Locate the 70xxxxxx_X.csv file.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 37

2Operation

NOTE

For the 11970A, 11970Q and 11970V, this is the conversion loss file used for almost all applications. However, for the mixer model numbers listed above, there are two other 70xxxxxx_.csv files on the CD that may be used in special cases.

– As an example, on the 11970Q mixers, the additional two files are 70Qxxxxxx_8.csv and

– The 70Qxxxxxx_10.csv file contains conversion loss data for the 10th harmonic only, and this

The reason you may want to use one of these special files is when making measurements that span the normal 40 GHz, 8th to 10 harmonic mixing transition. The two files provide conversion loss data that allow calibrated measurements when you need to measure slightly above or below the normal transition frequency, and want the measurement to be made using a single harmonic.

70Qxxxxxx_10.csv. The 70Qxxxxxx_8.csv file contains conversion loss data for the 8th harmonic only, and this data allows the 8th harmonic to be used to a slightly higher tuned frequency than the normal 40 GHz transition from the 8th to the 10 harmonic. However, only a portion of Q band can be covered by the 8th harmonic. See the 70Qxxxxxx_8.csv file for the exact frequency coverage.

data allows the 10th harmonic to be used to a lower tuned frequency than the normal 40 GHz transition from the 8th to the 10 harmonic. The conversion loss will be worse below 40 GHz compared to using the normal 70Qxxxxx_X.csv file.

3 Copy the.csv file to a USB memory device.

4 Insert the USB memory stick into one of the USB ports on the signal analyzer.

5 It is recommended that you connect a mouse and keyboard to the signal analyzer.

6 Press Input/ Output, More, Corrections, Select Correction.

7 Choose a correction array from the list of Correction 1 through Correction 6. Correction 1 has a

provision to store antenna corrections, so if antenna corrections are required, reserve this array for that use. If you want to see if anything is already stored in a particular correction, press Correction, Edit. To delete a correction table, press Return, assure the Select Correction key corresponds to the correction you want to delete, and press Delete Correction.

8 Once the correction array number is selected, press Recall, Data (import), Amplitude

Correction and chose one of the correction array numbers.

9 Press Open, use the pull down arrow in the "look in" box to navigate to the USB memory stick,

and locate the 70xxxxxx_X.csv file.

10 Select the 70xxxxxx_X.csv file and click Open. The conversion loss data will now load into the

specified corrections array. To view the contents of the corrections array in the conversion loss table, press Input/ Output, More, Corrections, select the corrections array number, and press Edit. Press Return to go back to the measurement screen.

Loading the .csv file automatically populates the Description and Comment fields found under the Corrections, Properties key. To edit these fields, press Input/ Output, More, Corrections, Select Correction, select the correction number, press Properties, Description or Comment.

Compensating for IF cable and diplexer loss

The external diplexer has 1dB of loss at 300 MHz. The cable that connects the diplexer to the signal analyzer has loss depending on cable length.

1 Press Input/Output, External Mixer, Cable IF Loss and enter the cable loss plus the 1dB

diplexer loss.

38 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

NOTE

Manually entering conversion loss data

1 Locate the printed copy of the conversion loss data that has the text "For use with Keysight

X-Series analyzers only". Or Insert the CD provided with the mixer into a PC and navigate to the 70xxxxxx_X.pdf file. The file contains tabular and graphic conversion loss data. Be careful to select the correct file since there are three files provided for the 11970A, Q and V band mixers. Print the 70xxxxxx_X.pdf file to create a printed copy.

For the 11970A, 11970Q and 11970V, this is the conversion loss file that is used for almost all applications. however, for the mixer model numbers listed above, there are two other 70xxxxxx_X.csv files on the CD that can be read and printed using Windows notepad. See the notes under “Loading Conversion Loss Data for the Signal Analyzer” on page 35.

2 Press Input/ Output, More, Corrections, Select Correction.

3 Choose a correction array from the list of Correction 1 through Correction 6. Correction 1 has a

provision to store antenna corrections, so if antenna corrections are required, reserve this array for that use. If you want to see if anything is already stored in a particular correction, press Correction, Ed it. To delete a correction table, press Return, assure the Select Correction key corresponds to the correction you want to delete, and press Delete Correction.

4 After selecting the correction number, press Edit. Use the keys provided to enter the frequency

5 It is possible to add a description and a comment of what the selected correction is, and have

Signal ID

Image suppress

The Image Suppress mode of Signal ID mathematically removes all image and multiple responses of signals present at the mixer input. Two hidden sweeps are taken in succession. The second sweep is offset in LO frequency by 2*IF/N. For each point in each trace, the smaller amplitude from the two traces is taken and placed in that point in Trace 1. Responses of each trace that lie on top of one another will remain and are valid signals, others are images and are suppressed.

This function takes control of and uses Trace 1. Any data in this trace prior to activating Image Suppress will be lost.

In Image Suppress Mode, synchronization is ensured by first turning off Signal ID, initiating a single sweep, then turning on Signal ID followed by two single sweeps.

and amplitude (conversion loss) points from the calibration data table. Conversion loss values are entered as positive numbers. When finished, press Return.

this description appear on the Description or Comment key. Press Properties, and connect a keyboard to the instrument. For example, press Comment and type 11970V Serial XXxxxxxxxx. Press Done.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 39

2Operation

NOTE

Image shift

Like the Image Suppress mode, Image Shift is a two sweep sequence. The data from the first sweep is placed in Trace 1 and the data from the second (LO frequency shifted by 2*IF/N) sweep is placed in Trace 2. Signal responses of Trace 1 and Trace 2 that have the same horizontal position are considered to be in the current band and therefore can be analyzed with the amplitude and frequency measurement systems of the SA. All other responses are invalid and should be ignored.

This function takes control of and uses Trace 1 and Trace 2. Any data in these traces prior to activating Image Shift will be lost.

To synchronize in Image Shift Mode, turn off Signal ID and then initiate a single sweep. Then turn on Signal ID and initiate two single sweeps. The results of the first sweep after Signal ID is turned on are available in Trace 1. The next sweep is shifted and the data from that sweep is available in Trace 2. The unshifted and shifted data can then be compared.

40 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

NOTE

Keysight 11970 SERIES

HARMONIC MIXER

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9040B X- Series Signal Analyzer (Option EXM)

Refer to “Spectrum analyzer retrofit requirements” on page 13 for configuration requirements.

Set up the equipment

1 Connect the signal source, diplexer, and harmonic mixer to the signal analyzer as shown in

Figure 2-8.

The maximum torque for the SMA cables and adapters should not exceed 122 N-cm (10 in-lb.)

Figure 2-8 External mixer setup (N9040B)

2 On the analyzer press MODE/MEAS hardkey. Tap Spectrum Analyzer, OK.

3 Select external mixing by pressing Input/Output hardkey. Tap Select Input, External Mixer,

External Mixer Setup.

4 The default is 11970A. To select Q, U, V or W bands, tap Mixer Presets, and under the 11970

selections chose the appropriate 11970 frequency band. Tap Close to return to the Spectrum display.

5 Tune the analyzer to the input frequency by pressing FREQ hardkey and enter a center

frequency, or start and stop frequencies. To enter a center frequency tap Center Frequency twice and enter a value.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 41

2Operation

6 Increase the number of sweep points to obtain increased frequency resolution. Press SWEEP

hardkey. Tap Sweep Config, tap Points twice, and enter 30001.

Figure 2-9 Multiple signal responses (N9040B)

7 Many responses may appear on screen. Turn on Signal ID function to identify true signals from

images and multiples. Press Input/Output hardkey. Tap Signal ID to toggle Signal ID on. Tap Signal ID Mode and select Image Suppress. See “Signal ID” on page 46 for more information.

42 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

NOTE

Figure 2-10 Valid signal responses (N9040B)

Amplitude calibration

1 See Loading Conversion Loss Data for the Signal Analyzer below. This will guide you through

entering the conversion loss data provided with the mixer, into a corrections file that can be activated to provide amplitude corrected measurements.

2 To access corrections, tap Corrections, Edit Corrections, Select Correction.

3 Chose a correction from the list. Note that you used one of the Corrections numbered 1-6 when

you entered the conversion loss data into the instrument. Tap Close.

4 Tap Correction On to apply the corrections to the measurement. Corrections On will

automatically toggle the Apply Corrections setting to On.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 43

2Operation

NOTE

Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer

The conversion loss data supplied with your mixer can be loaded into your signal analyzer from one of two sources:

– By downloading the 70xxxxxx_X.csv file located on the CD ROM disk that is provided with your

– The mixer ships with a printed copy of the conversion loss data. Find the printed copy

Downloading the conversion loss .csv files to the analyzer corrections array

1 Install the CD ROM provided with the mixer, into a PC and view the contents of the CD.

Figure 2-23.

2 Locate the 70xxxxxx_X.csv file.

– As an example, on the 11970Q mixers, the additional two files are 70Qxxxxxx_8.csv and

– The 70Qxxxxxx_10.csv file contains conversion loss data for the 10th harmonic only, and this

3 Copy the .csv file to a USB memory device.

4 Insert the USB memory stick into one of the USB ports on the signal analyzer.

5 Tap Corrections, Select Correction.

44 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

6 Choose a correction array from the list of Correction 1 through Correction 8. Correction 1 has a

provision to store antenna corrections, so if antenna corrections are required, reserve this array for that use, If you want to see if anything is already stored in a particular correction, tap one of the correction numbers, and Edit Correction. To delete the correction table tap Delete

Correction. Tap Close to exit the Edit screen.

7 Once the correction array number is selected, press Recall hardkey and tap Correction, Recall

From, and select external drive designator under Removable Drives.

Figure 2-11 Loading the conversion loss files to the corrections array

8 Select the 70xxxxxx_X.csv file that corresponds to your mixer serial number and tap Recall. The

conversion loss data will load into the specified corrections array. To view the contents of the correction array, tap Edit Corrections. Tap Close to go back to the measurement screen.

9 Loading the .csv file automatically populates the Description and Comments fields found under

Edit Corrections, Settings. To edit these fields, tap on the field and use the pop-up keyboard to make changes. Tap Done when changes are complete.

Compensating for IF cable and diplexer loss

The external diplexer has 1dB of loss at 300 MHz. The cable that connects the diplexer to the signal analyzer has loss depending on cable length.

1 Press Input/Output hardkey and tap Cable IF Loss twice then enter the cable loss plus the 1 dB

diplexer loss.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 45

2Operation

NOTE

Manually entering conversion loss data

1 Locate the printed copy of the conversion loss data that has the text "For use with Keysight

For the 11970A, 11970Q and 11970V, this is the conversion loss file that is used for almost all applications. however, for the mixer model numbers listed above, there are two other 70xxxxxx_X.csv files on the CD that can be read and printed using Windows notepad. See the notes under “Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer” on page 44.

2 Press Input/Output hardkey. Tap Corrections, Select Correction.

3 Choose a correction array from the list of Correction 1 through Correction 8. Correction 1 has a

4 To enter values into the table tap Edit Correction, insert Row Below. Tap on boxes under Freq

5 It is possible to add a description and comment of what the selected correction is, and have this

provision to store antenna corrections, so if antenna corrections are required, reserve this array for that use. If you want to see if anything is already stored in a particular correction, tap one of the correction numbers, and Edit Correction. To delete a correction table, tap Delete Correction.

or Amptd and enter the frequency and amplitude (conversion loss) points from the calibration data table. Conversion loss values are entered as positive numbers.

description appear on the Description or Comment field. Tap Settings and tap on the field and use the pop-up keyboard to enter text. Tap Done when changes are complete.

6 Tap Close to exit the Edit Corrections screen.

Signal ID

Image suppress

This function takes control of and uses Trace 1. Any data in this trace prior to activating Image Suppress will be lost.

In Image Suppress Mode, synchronization is ensured by first turning off Signal ID, initiating a single sweep, then turning on Signal ID followed by two single sweeps.

46 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Image shift

NOTE

This function takes control of and uses Trace 1 and Trace 2. Any data in these traces prior to activating Image Shift will be lost.

Operation 2

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 47

2Operation

NOTE

Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers

External millimeter mixers can be used to extend the frequency coverage of the 8560 E-Series and EC-Series spectrum analyzers. (The 8560E/EC Option 002 and Option 327 do not have external mixing capability.)

The 8560 E-Series and EC-Series spectrum analyzers contain an extensive menu of functions that help with millimeter measurements. This example explains how to connect external mixers to the spectrum analyzer, choose the band of interest, store conversion-loss factors, and how to use the optional automatic signal-identification functions.

Set up the equipment

1 Figure 2-12 illustrates how to connect an external harmonic mixer to the spectrum analyzer.

Figure 2-12 External mixed setup (856X)

Good-quality shielded SMA-type cables should be used to connect the mixer to the spectrum analyzer to ensure that no signal attenuation occurs. Keysight 11970-60013 SMA-type cables may be used. Do not over-tighten the cables; the maximum torque should not exceed 112 N-cm (10 in-lb.).

Select the frequency band

2 Specify unpreselected external mixing by pressing CONFIG, then EXT MXR PRE UNPR until

UNPR is selected.

3 To select a frequency above 18 GHz:

a Press AUX CTRL, EXTERNAL MIXER to set the analyzer to external mixer mode.

48 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

b Enter the desired frequency directly using the center-frequency function.

c Notice in Table 2 -1 that some frequencies overlap and fall into two bands. To be sure that

the desired band is selected, refer to Tab le 2-1 and select the desired frequency band, then use the full band function to enter this band.

d In the external mixer menu, press FULL BAND, then press the step up ( key until the letter

preceding BAND in the active function area corresponds to the desired frequency band.

Table 2-1 External mixer frequency ranges

Frequency band Frequency range Mixing harmonic Conversion loss

K 18.0 to 26.5 6- 30 dB

A 26.5 to 40.0 8- 30 dB

Q 33.0 to 50.0 10- 30 dB

U 40.0 to 60.0 10- 30 dB

V 50.0 to 75.0 14- 30 dB

E 60.0 to 90.0 16- 30 dB

W 75.0 to 110.0 18- 30 dB

F 90.0 to 140.0 24- 30 dB

D 110.0 to 170.0 30- 30 dB

G 140.0 to 220.0 36- 30 dB

Y 170.0 to 260.0 44- 30 dB

J 220.0 to 325.0 54- 30 dB

In this example, we'll look at U-band, which ranges from 40 GHz to 60 GHz, as shown in

Figure 2-13. The LOCK HARMONIC function “locks” the spectrum analyzer in that band, ensuring

that the spectrum analyzer sweeps only the chosen band. LOCK ON OFF is automatically set to ON when FULL BAND is pressed.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 49

2Operation

Figure 2-13 Select the band of interest

Save the average conversion-loss value

4 Default conversion-loss values that are stored in the analyzer for each frequency band are listed

in Table 2-1 on page 49. These values approximate the values for the Keysight 11970 series mixers. Other conversion-loss values may be entered into the spectrum analyzer in two ways. The first method lets you to save the average conversion-loss value for the entire band using

AVERAGE CNV LOSS. To activate this function:

a Press AUX CTRL, EXTERNAL MIXER, AMPTD CORRECT, AVERAGE CNV LOSS.

b Enter the appropriate average conversion-loss value. On Keysight 11970 Series harmonic

mixers, these values are listed on the mixer, or a calibration sheet that is supplied with the mixer. The 11970A, Q, and V band mixers calibrated after May 2011 have two calibration sheets. Use the sheet that contains the text "Not for use with the Keysight X-Series signal analyzers". The U-band mixer used for this example had an average conversion loss of 23.5 dB, as shown in Figure 2-14.

50 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

Figure 2-14 Store and correct for conversion loss

The second method for storing conversion-loss information lets you save individual conversion-loss data points at specific intervals across the harmonic band, using CNV LOSS VS FREQ.

To view or enter a conversion-loss data point:

a Press CNV LOSS VS FREQ.

b Enter the conversion-loss data at the frequency shown.

c Use the step up (key to step through the band, entering the conversion loss at each step.

Signal identification

5 The IF output of a harmonic mixer contains many mixer products (frequencies of LO ± source,

2LO ± source, 3LO ± source…nLO ± source). As a result, within a single harmonic band, a single input signal can produce many responses, only one of which is valid.

These responses come in pairs, where the members of the valid pair are spaced 621.4 MHz apart (see Figure 2-15) and the right-most member for the pair is the correct response (for this analyzer, the left member of a pair is not valid).

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 51

2Operation

Figure 2-15 Signal responses produced by a 50 GHz signal in U band

Identify signals with the frequency-shift method

6 Signal-identification routines that identify the signal and images are available on instruments

with firmware revisions valid signals uses the spectrum-analyzer function SIG ID ON OFF. When using this function, smaller spans will yield more accurate measurements.

a Span down to 50 MHz.

b Press AUX CTRL, EXTERNAL MIXER, SIGNAL IDENT.

c Press SIG ID ON OFF until ON is selected.

Any signal not produced by the currently selected harmonic will be shifted horizontally on alternate sweeps (see Figure 2-16). Therefore, when viewing the display, on alternate sweeps the signal will appear, then not appear, at the frequency of interest. The correct signal produced by the selected harmonic will be shifted in a vertical direction only, as shown in Figure 2-17.

~920528, or with Option 008. The frequency-shift method of identifying

52 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Figure 2-16 Response for invalid signals

Operation 2

Figure 2-17 Response for valid signals

Identify signals in wide frequency spans

7 SIG ID AT MKR identifies signals in wide frequency spans, using harmonic search. SIG ID AT

MKR automatically determines the proper frequency of a signal and displays its value on the

spectrum analyzer.

– Activating SIG ID AT MKR on an image of the signal will yield a reading in the active block, as

shown in Figure 2-18. The true signal frequency is given with an identifier that the marker resides on an image. If the marker is placed on a true signal, and SIG ID AT MKR is activated, the signal frequency will appear without the IMAGE notation, as shown in Figure 2-19.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 53

2Operation

8 To activate SIG ID AT MKR:

9 To exit the external mixer mode, press AUX CTRL, then INTERNAL MIXER.

a Place a marker on a signal.

b Press AUX CTRL, EXTERNAL MIXER, SIGNAL IDENT, SIG ID AT MKR.

c To exit the external mixer mode, press AUX CTRL, then INTERNAL MIXER.

Figure 2-18 SIG ID AT MKR performed on an image signal

Figure 2-19 SIG ID AT MKR performed on a true signal

54 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers

NOTE

Preliminary operation

This section provides information for the Keysight 70907A (or B), however the operation of the Keysight 70909A and Keysight 70910A is similar. Minor d ifferences may be noted, but the necessary deviations from these exact instructions will be obvious.

Equipment connection

Connect the equipment as shown in Figure 2-20. Use the following checklist to verify the connections:

– Keysight 11970 LO IN to Keysight 70907B LO OUTPUT (SMA cable, 11970-60013)

– Keysight 11970 IF OUT to Keysight 70907B IF INPUT (SMA cable, 11970-60013)

Operation 2

Figure 2-20 Keysight 11970 connections to the Keysight 71000 series spectrum analyzer

Operation

Band selection

Use the following key sequence to enter the external mixing mode and to select the desired band of operation:

Press the softkey for the desired band.

The above band selection key sequence must be used to enter the external mixing band of operation. Do not enter in the center frequency of the band directly.

Select Input - choose external mixer input, for example: “IN 2 EM 70910A”

State

ext mixer

fulband KAQUVE

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 55

2Operation

NOTE

Amplitude calibration for a single frequency

Enter the conversion loss at the desired frequency from either the data listed on the mixer label, or a calibration sheet supplied with the mixer. The 11970A, Q, and V band mixers calibrated after May 2011 have two calibration sheets. Use the sheet that contains the text "Not for use with the Keysight X-Series signal analyzers". Use the following key sequence to enter the conversion loss values:

Enter the conversion loss value of the desired frequency, then terminate the entry with dB.

The above procedure is a single-point conversion-loss correction. For an alternative procedure, available by remote programming only, refer to “Conversion loss versus frequency correction” on page 59.

General descriptions of Keysight 71000 series spectrum analyzer external-mixing functions

State

ext mixer

CONV LOSS

ext mixer Allows access to the following softkey functions that control the

measurement range when an external mixer extends the spectrum analyzer frequency range. The ext mixer softkey can be found under the State key.

fulband KAQUVE

fulband WFDGYJ

CONV LOSS

SIGNAL IDENT

fulband KAQUVE

and

fulband WFDGYJ

Specify the frequency range for measurements made with external mixers. Twelve frequency bands are available. Table 2 -2 lists the start and stop frequencies of each band and also shows which local-oscillator harmonic (N) is used for the mixing process. Once a band is selected, the frequency range is locked and the spectrum analyzer tunes with the local-oscillator harmonic for that band only.

56 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Table 2-2 External mixing bands and associated mixing harmonics

Band Harmonic number (N) Frequency range (GHz)

K 6- 18.0 to 26.5

A 8+ 26.5 to 40.0

Q 10+ 33.0 to 50.0

U 10+ 40.0 to 60.0

V 14+ 50.0 to 75.0

E 16+ 60.0 to 90.0

W 18+ 75.0 to 110.0

F 24+ 90.0 to 140.0

D 30+ 110.0 to 170.0

G 36+ 140.0 to 220.0

Y 42+ 170.0 to 260.0

J 50+ 220.0 to 330.0

Operation 2

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 57

2Operation

NOTE

CONV LOSS

(conversion loss)

Preset Input Sets which active input port will be selected when the INSTR PRESET is

INSTR PRESET Resets to the preset input and to the lowest full frequency range available.

SIGNAL IDENT

(signal identity)

Offsets the reference level to compensate for amplitude losses at the active input port. If necessary, use select input to activate the desired input port before specifying its conversion-loss offset.

To clear the offset, enter a conversion loss of zero.

After the instrument preset, a default value of 30 dB is activated automatically for the input port of the external-mixer-interface module.

pressed. The preset input softkey can be accessed by pressing State, then MORE.

(For an external mixer, this is band A.) This is a front panel key.

Press Frequency, More, sig id options.

Executes a routine to identify real, in-band signals using either the image (default) or shift methods.

Several options are available under sig id options:

– SIG ID ) CF

Places the marker on the identified real signal and centers the signal on the display.

– SIG ID MAN OFF

Selects manual or automatic (default) mode.

– IMAGE/SHIFT

Selects the routine to use for identification.

– SIG ID AMPTD D

Specifies the amplitude difference between the marked signal and signals tested as images or harmonics (default is 10 dB; applies only to IMAGE mode.)

– IMAGE N START

Determines the frequency range for possible image or harmonic responses by selecting the lowest and highest local oscillator harmonic used for mixing, according to the tuning equation below:

= N x FLO \ IF

Default is 1.

– IMAGE N STOP

See “IMAGE N START” definition above. Default is 40.

See Table 2-3 for available frequency ranges and related harmonic numbers. Use the IMAGE N START and IMAGE N STOP softkeys for the image identification only.

58 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Table 2-3 Frequency ranges and corresponding harmonic numbers

NOTE

Band/Range Harmonic number and sign of IF (N)

Internal mixing - Keysight 71210C

Internal mixing - Keysight 71200C

2.9 - 6.2

6.0 - 12.7

12.5 - 19.9

19.7 - 22.0/26.5

2.9 - 6.2

6.0 - 12.8

12.6 - 22.0

-1

-2 +3 +4

-1

-2

-4

Operation 2

K: 18.0 - 26.5 A: 26.5 - 40.0 Q: 33.0 - 50.0 U: 40.0 - 60.0

V: 50.0 - 75.0 External mixing - Keysight 70907A/ 70907B/ 70910A/ 70909A

E: 60.0 - 90.0

W: 75.0 - 110.0

F: 90.0 - 140.0

D: 110.0 - 170.0

G: 140.0 - 220.0

Y: 170.0 - 260.0

J: 220.0 - 330.0

Conversion loss versus frequency correction

The Keysight 71000 Series Spectrum Analyzers with the Keysight 70907A (or B) External Mixer Interface Module installed has the amplitude-correction function (AMPCOR) available by remote programming.

Use AMPCOR to compensate for the Keysight 11970 Series frequency-dependent conversion-loss variations. Up to 200 pairs of frequency-amplitude correction points can be entered, depending on the amount of available internal memory. The frequency values entered must be in increasing order, or an error condition results. Whenever AMPCOR is on, the correction values are added to all measurement results.

+6 +8 +10 +10 +14 +16 +18 +24 +30 +36 +42 +50

The values of the correction points are applied across the active measurement range. Between points, the correction value are interpolated. When the measuring at frequencies outside of the first and last correction pairs from memory.

When AMPCOR is executed, the frequency pairs are stored in internal memory. The remote commands DISPOSE ALL, FORMAT, ERASE, and DISPOSE AMP COR erase the amplitude-correction pairs from memory.

DISPOSE ALL, FORMAT, and ERASE erases much more than the amplitude-correction pairs from memory. Do not use these commands without referring to the programmer’s manual for the Keysight 70000 and Keysight 70900B to determine their effect on instrument programming.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 59

2Operation

Because AMPCOR adjusts IF gain and attenuation, AMPCOR should be used with care when measuring signals near the compression level (also at a frequency that is corrected by the AMPCOR command).

To use AMPCOR for the Keysight 11970 conversion loss correction, first set the single-point conversion loss function to zero with the following command:

Then build the AMPCOR table with frequency conversion loss pairs. The following example program line shows three pairs of frequency conversion loss values for a typical Keysight 11970V.

The conversion loss corrections are activated by the AMPCOR ON command; use AMPCOR OFF to deactivate the function (be sure to manually enter a single-point conversion-loss value if AMPCOR has been used).

To print out an existing AMPCOR table, use the program listed below:

10 dim A$ (1:20) [30]

20 OUTPUT 718; “CONVLOSS 0DB;”

30 OUTPUT 718; “AMPCOR 50 GHZ, 46.1DB, 52GHZ, 46.7DB, 53GHZ,47.2DB;”

40 !

50 OUTPUT 718; “AMPCOR?;”

60 ENTER 718 USING “%,k”;A$ (*)

70 !

80 FOR I=1 TO 10

90 PRINT “Point “;I,A$ (I)

100 NEXT I

110 END

OUTPUT 718; “CNVLOSS 0DB;”

OUTPUT 718; “AMPCOR 50GHZ, 49.6DB, 51GHZ, 49.1DB, 52GHZ,48.6DB;”

Line 30:

Generates an AMPCOR table.

Line 60:

% specifies that an EOI terminates the entire statement. “K” specifies that an L

terminates the

individual string entry.

Returned values are in the format where the frequency in Hz is listed first, followed by the conversion loss in dB. See the following example:

60 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

NOTE

Point 1 50.00000000E+9,46.1

Point 2 52.00000000E+9,46.7

Point 3 53.00000000E+9,47.2

Point 4

Point 5

Point 6

Point 7

Point 8

Point 9

Point 10

Point 11

For further information, consult the Keysight 70900B Local-Oscillator-Controlled Modules Programming Manual, part number 70900-90284.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 61

2Operation

NOTE

CAUTION

Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer

Set up the equipment

1 Connect the external harmonic mixer to the spectrum analyzer, as shown in Figure 2-21.

Figure 2-21 External mixer connection

Before connecting the Keysight 11975A Amplifier, set the ALC switch to ON. Failure to do so can damage the mixer.

2 Power up the spectrum analyzer and then the amplifier.

3 Adjust the amplifier power to 16 dBm.

4 To access the spectrum analyzer’s millimeter bands, press SHIFT and then the up arrow (until

the desired band is displayed on the screen, as shown in Figure 2-22. Note that this is important because toggling through the bands, causes the band to automatically harmonic lock as evidenced by the on-screen annotation of “Harmonic 6” changing to “Harmonic 6L”, where “L” stands for locked, or you could press Shift+z to manually harmonic lock.

62 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Figure 2-22 Typical milimeter signal display

Operation 2

A menu of millimeter measurement functions is accessed by pressing SHIFT, 1, MHz. Even though the spectrum analyzer is in an external mixer band, the 8566B spectrum analyzer retains full operation capability (except for use of the RF input attenuator and preselector).

Amplitude calibration

Procedure

Each 11970 series harmonic mixer is characterized at the factory and comes with a calibration chart (See Figure 2-24). The horizontal axis of the chart gives the frequency range of the mixer and the two vertical axis scales are calibrated in conversion loss and in reference level offset.

To correct the amplitude calibration of the spectrum analyzer to account for the conversion loss of the harmonic mixer, press SHIFT, 1, MHz, which accesses the millimeter menu. Then press SHIFT, 5, MHz to access conversion loss entry and key in the appropriate value on the spectrum analyzer as shown on the mixer calibration chart.

For measurements that span the entire band, choose an average value of conversion loss from the conversion loss chart. For those spectrum analyzers with date codes earlier than 13.8.86, the conversion loss is changed using the reference level function. Press SHIFT, then REFERENCE LEVEL, then key in the reference level offset shown on the right side of the mixer calibration chart.

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 63

2Operation

Signal identification

Figure 2-22 shows a typical full-band display of a single input signal. Direct interpretation of the

display is difficult because of the large number of responses produced by several local oscillator harmonics generated in the mixer. To solve this problem the 8566B spectrum analyzer uses two methods of signal identification.

The first is an automatic image search in which the spectrum analyzer looks for a signal image within a preset range of harmonic numbers. This automatic signal identification routine is initiated by pressing SHIFT, 3, MHz. Upon completion, one of three messages appears on the CRT: SIGNAL NOT IDENTIFIED, SIGNAL IDENTIFIED OUT OF BAND (with the frequency), or CENTER (with the identified signal frequency). The range of harmonic numbers through which the spectrum analyzer searches can be changed by accessing “search start HN” and “search stop HN,” which are SHIFT, 7, MHz and SHIFT, 8, MHz, respectively.

The second method, manual signal identification, is a fast method of verifying that the displayed signal is a true signal in the specified band. Press SHIFT, 4, MHz to activate this function. Positive signal identification is indicated if the signal in question does not change frequency and is reduced in amplitude by one to two divisions on alternate sweeps. A failed signal identification is indicated by the signal disappearing or shifting in frequency.

64 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Operation 2

Figure 2-23 Calibration sheet 1

Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide 65

2Operation

Figure 2-24 Calibration sheet 2

66 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

Keysight 11970 Series Harmonic Mixers User’s Guide

3 Service

Maintenance 68

This chapter covers care and maintenance of the mixer

3Service

Maintenance

Repairs

The only maintenance required for the 11970 Series Mixers is preventive maintenance. When you are not using your mixer, cover its waveguide input with its waveguide cap. Also, though the 11970 Mixers can absorb more punishment than is normal for such devices, you should avoid subjecting them to unnecessary shock or vibration.

The 11970 Mixers are NOT field-repairable. If your mixer fails, DO NOT try to repair it yourself, you will void the warranty. Instead, notify the nearest Keysight office.

68 Keysight 11970 Series User’s Guide

This information is subject to change without notice. Always refer to the Keysight website for the latest revision.

Printed in Malaysia

*11970-90040*

11970-90040

www.keysight.com

Keysight 11970 Series, 11970K, 11970A, 11970Q, 11970U User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

Product category:

Sales and Technical Support

Table of Contents

List of Figures

List of Tables

1 General Information

Introduction

Equipment supplied

Mixers covered by manual

11970 Series harmonic mixers

Options

Spectrum analyzer retrofit requirements

Specifications

Environmental limitations

2 Operation

Introduction

Operating precautions

Getting Started

Mixer connections

Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ)

Set up the equipment

Using the Mixers with the E4440A, E4446A, or E4448A PSA Series Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ)

Set up the equipment

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9030A and N9010A X-Series Signal Analyzers (Option EXM)

Set up the equipment

Amplitude calibration

Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer

Signal ID

Image shift

Using the 11970A, Q, U, V, and W Mixers with the N9040B X- Series Signal Analyzer (Option EXM)

Set up the equipment

Amplitude calibration

Loading conversion loss data for the signal analyzer

Signal ID

Image shift

Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers

Set up the equipment

Select the frequency band

Save the average conversion-loss value

Signal identification

Identify signals with the frequency-shift method

Identify signals in wide frequency spans

Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers

Preliminary operation

Operation

Conversion loss versus frequency correction

Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer

Set up the equipment

Amplitude calibration

Signal identification

3 Service

Maintenance

Repairs