Keysight M9361A Startup Manual

Keysight M9361A

PXI Downconverter

Startup Guide

2.75 GHz to 26.5 GHz

Notices

Copyright Notice

© Keysight Technologies 2010 - 2013

No part of this manual may be
reproduced in 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, Inc. as governed by
United States and international
copyright laws.

Manual

M9361-90001

Published By

Keysight Technologies
Ground Floor and Second Floor, CP-11
Sector-8, IMT Manesar – 122051
Gurgaon, Haryana, India

Edition

2013

In

Printed

Regulatory Compliance

This product has been designed and
tested in accordance with accepted
industry standards, and has been
supplied in a safe condition. To review
the Declaration of Conformity, go to

http://www.keysight.com/go/conformity.

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

Part

USA

Number

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.

KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES DOES NOT
WARRANT THIRD-PARTY SYSTEM­LEVEL (COMBINATION OF CHASSIS,
CONTROLLERS, MODULES, ETC.)
PERFORMANCE, SAFETY, OR
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE, UNLESS
SPECIFICALLY STATED.

Technology Licenses

The hardware 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.

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.keysight.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, display, 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.

Safety Notices

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.

The following safety precautions should
be observed before using this product
and any associated instrumentation.

This product is intended for use by
qualified personnel who recognize
shock hazards and are familiar with the

safety precautions required to avoid
possible injury. Read and follow all
installation, operation, and
maintenance information carefully
before using the product.

If this product is not used as specified,
the protection provided by the
equipment could be impaired. This
product must be used in a normal
condition (in which all means for
protection are intact) only.

The types of product users are:

Responsible body is the individual or
group responsible for the use and main­tenanceof equipment, for ensuring that
the equipment is operated within its spe­cifications and operating limits, and for
ensuring operators are adequately trained.

Operators use the productfor its intended
function. They must be trained in electrical
safety procedures and proper use of the
instrument. They must be protected from
electric shock and contact with hazardous
live circuits.

Maintenance personnel perform routine
procedures on the product to keep itoper­ating properly (for example, setting the line
voltage or replacing consumable mater­ials). Maintenance procedures are
described in the user documentation. The
procedures explicitly stateif theoperator
may perform them. Otherwise, they should
be performed only by service personnel.

Servicepersonnel are trained to work on
live circuits, perform safe installations, and
repair products. Only properly trained ser­vicepersonnel may perform installation
and service procedures.

Operator is responsible to maintain safe
operating conditions. To ensure safe
operating conditions, modules should
not be operated beyond the full
temperature range specified in the
Environmental and physical
specification. Exceeding safe operating
conditions can result in shorter
lifespans, improper module
performance and user safety issues.
When the modules are in use and

operation within the specified full
temperature range is not maintained,
module surface temperatures may
exceed safe handling conditions which
can cause discomfort or burns if
touched. In the event of a module
exceeding the full temperature range,
always allow the module to cool before
touching or removing modules from
chassis.

Keysight products are designed for use
with electrical signals that are rated
Measurement Category I and
Measurement Category II, as described
in the International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 60664.
Most measurement, control, and data
I/O signals are Measurement Category I
and must not be directly connected to
mains voltage or to voltage sources with
high transient over-voltages.
Measurement Category II connections
require protection for high transient
over-voltages often associated with
local AC mains connections. Assume all
measurement, control, and data I/O
connections are for connection to
Category I sources unless otherwise
marked or described in the user
documentation.

Exercise extreme caution when a shock
hazard is present. Lethal voltage may
be present on cable connector jacks or
test fixtures. The American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) states that a
shock hazard exists when voltage levels
greater than 30V RMS, 42.4V peak, or
60VDC are present. A good safety
practice is to expect that hazardous
voltage is present in any unknown
circuit before measuring.

Operators of this product must be
protected from electric shock at all
times. The responsible body must
ensure that operators are prevented
access and/or insulated from every
connection point. In some cases,
connections must be exposed to
potential human contact. Product
operators in these circumstances must
be trained to protect themselves from
the risk of electric shock. If the circuit is
capable of operating at or above 1000V,
no conductive part of the circuit may be
exposed.

Do not connect switching cards directly
to unlimited power circuits. They are
intended to be used with impedance­limited sources. NEVER connect
switching cards directly to AC mains.
When connecting sources to switching
cards, install protective devices to limit
fault current and voltage to the card.

Before operating an instrument, ensure
that the line cord is connected to a
properly-grounded power receptacle.
Inspect the connecting cables, test
leads, and jumpers for possible wear,
cracks, or breaks before each use.

When installing equipment where
access to the main power cord is
restricted, such as rack mounting, a
separate main input power disconnect
device must be provided in close
proximity to the equipment and within
easy reach of the operator.

For maximum safety, do not touch the
product, test cables, or any other
instruments while power is applied to
the circuit under test. ALWAYS remove
power from the entire test system and
discharge any capacitors before:
connecting or disconnecting cables or
jumpers, installing or removing
switching cards, or making internal
changes, such as installing or removing
jumpers.

Do not touch any object that could
provide a current path to the common
side of the circuit under test or power
line (earth) ground. Always make
measurements with dry hands while
standing on a dry, insulated surface
capable of withstanding the voltage
being measured.

The instrument and accessories must
be used in accordance with its
specifications and operating
instructions, or the safety of the
equipment may be impaired.

Do not exceed the maximum signal
levels of the instruments and
accessories, as defined in the
specifications and operating
information, and as shown on the
instrument or test fixture panels, or
switching card.

When fuses are used in a product,
replace with the same type and rating

for continued protection against fire
hazard.

Chassis connections must only be used
as shield connections for measuring
circuits, NOT as safety earth ground
connections.

If you are using a test fixture, keep the
lid closed while power is applied to the
device under test. Safe operation
requires the use of a lid interlock.

Instrumentation and accessories shall
not be connected to humans.

Before performing any maintenance,
disconnect the line cord and all test
cables.

To maintain protection from electric
shock and fire, replacement
components in mains circuits –
including the power transformer, test
leads, and input jacks – must be
purchased from Keysight. Standard
fuses with applicable national safety
approvals may be used if the rating and
type are the same. Other components
that are not safety-related may be
purchased from other suppliers as long
as they are equivalent to the original
component (note that selected parts
should be purchased only through
Keysight to maintain accuracy and
functionality of the product). If you are
unsure about the applicability of a
replacement component, call an
Keysight office for information.

No operator serviceable parts inside.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
To prevent electrical shock do not
remove covers. For continued
protection against fire hazard, replace
fuse with same type and rating.

PRODUCT MARKINGS:

The CE mark is a registered trademark
of the European Community.

Australian Communication and Media
Authority mark to indicate regulatory
compliance as a registered supplier.

This symbol indicates product
compliance with the Canadian
Interference-Causing Equipment
Standard (ICES-001). It also identifies
the product is an Industrial Scientific
and Medical Group 1 Class A product
(CISPR 11, Clause 4).

South Korean Class A EMC Declaration.
This equipment is Class A suitable for
professional use and is for use in
electromagnetic environments outside
of the home. A 급 기 기 ( 업무 용 방 송 통

신 기 자 재 ) 이 기 기 는 업 무 용 (A 급 ) 전 자
파 적 합 기 기 로 서 판 매 자 또 는 사 용 자 는
이 점 을 주 의하 시 기 바 라 며 , 가 정 외 의
지 역 에 서 사 용 하 는 것 을 목 적 으 로 합 니

다 .

This product complies with the WEEE
Directive marketing requirement. The
affixed product label (above) indicates
that you must not discard this
electrical/electronic product in
domestic household waste. Product
Category: With reference to the
equipment types in the WEEE directive
Annex 1, this product is classified as
“Monitoring and Control
instrumentation” product. Do not
dispose in domestic household waste.
To return unwanted products, contact
your local Keysight office, or for more
information see

http://about.keysight.com/en/companyinfo/e
nvironment/takeback.shtml.

This symbol indicates the instrument is
sensitive to electrostatic discharge
(ESD). ESD can damage the highly
sensitive components in your
instrument. ESD damage is most likely
to occur as the module is being
installed or when cables are connected
or disconnected. Protect the circuits
from ESD damage by wearing a
grounding strap that provides a high
resistance path to ground. Alternatively,
ground yourself to discharge any built­up static charge by touching the outer
shell of any grounded instrument
chassis before touching the port
connectors.

This symbol on an instrument means
caution, risk of danger. You should refer
to the operating instructions located in
the user documentation in all cases
where the symbol is marked on the
instrument.

This symbol indicates the time period
during which no hazardous or toxic
substance elements are expected to
leak or deteriorate during normal use.
Forty years is the expected useful life of
the product.

CLEANING PRECAUTIONS:

To prevent electrical shock, disconnect
the Keysight Technologies instrument
from mains before cleaning. Use a dry
cloth or one slightly dampened with
water to clean the external case parts.
Do not attempt to clean internally. To
clean the connectors, use alcohol in a
well-ventilated area. Allow all residual
alcohol moisture to evaporate, and the
fumes to dissipate prior to energizing
the instrument.

Table of Contents

Documentation Map 7
M9361A Introduction 8

Related Documentation 8
Follow the Startup Sequence 8

Step 1: Unpack and Inspect the Module 9

ESD 9
Inspect for Damage 9

Return a Module for Service 9
Step 2: Verify M9361A Shipment Contents 10
Step 3: Install the Software 10

System Requirements 10

Hardware Requirements 11

Power up the Controller 11

Software Installation Overview 11

Software Installation Procedure 12

Step 4: Install the Module 13

Recommended Practices for Temperature Control 13

Module Installation Procedure 13

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Front Panel Features 15

Front Panel Connectors 15
Front Panel LEDs 15

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter System Connections 16

Agilent M9392A PXI Vector Signal Analyzer Cabling Diagram 16
Agilent M9361A Block Diagram 17

Step 5: Verify Operation of the M9361A Module 17

Conduct M9361A Self Test 18

Conduct M9361A Operational Check (optional) 18
Step 6: Installation is Complete 21

API Overview 21

IVI Drivers 21
LabVIEW Driver 21

M9361A Specifications 21

Documentation Map

Documentation Map

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 7

M9361A Introduction

M9361A Introduction

The scope of this Startup Guide is to detail the processes of receiving and installing the Agilent M9361A PXI
Downconverter, installing the required software, and verifying basic module operation. If you have any questions
after reviewing this information, please contact your local Agilent Technologies Inc. representative or contact us
through our website at www.agilent.com/find/M9361A.

Related Documentation

This Startup Guide and the documentation listed below are on the CD and at

www.agilent.com/find/M9361A (go to Document Library > Manuals).

l M9361A Soft Front Panel help system
l M9361A device driver API help systems (IVI-C/IVI-COM and LabVIEW G)
l M9361A specifications (Data Sheet)

Follow the Startup Sequence

Closely follow the startup process flow in this document. Deviating from the sequence can

cause unpredictable system behavior, damage your system, and may cause personal injury.

Step 1: Unpack

and Inspect

Step 2: Verify Shipment

Step 3: Install Drivers and Software

Step 4: Install Module

Step 5: Verify Operation with the Soft Front Panel (SFP)

Step 6: INSTALLATION PROCESS COMPLETE.

Proceed to program your product through the API.

8 Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide

Step 1: Unpack and Inspect the Module

The module is shipped in materials which prevent damage from static. The module should only be

removed from the packaging in an anti-static area ensuring that correct anti-static precautions are
taken. Store all modules in anti-static envelopes when not in use.

ESD

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage or destroy elec­tronic components. Use a static-safe work station to per­form all work on electronic assemblies. The figure (left)
shows a static-safe work station using two types of ESD pro­tection: conductive table-mat and wrist-strap combination,
and conductive floor-mat and heel-strap combination. Both
types, when used together, provide a significant level of
ESD protection. Of the two, only the table-mat and wrist­strap combination provides adequate ESD protection when
used alone. To ensure user safety, the static-safe acces­sories must provide at least 1MΩ of isolation from ground.

Step 1: Unpack and Inspect the Module

DONOT use these techniques for a static­safe work station when working on circuitry with a volt­age potential greater than 500 volts.

Inspect for Damage

After unpacking a module, inspect it for any shipping damage. Report any damage to the shipping agent imme­diately, as such damage is not covered by the warranty (see warranty information at beginning of this document).

To avoid damage when handling a module, do not touch exposed connector pins.

See www.agilent.com/find/tips for information on preventing damage to your Agilent equipment.

Return a Module for Service

Should it become necessary to return a module for repair or service, follow the steps below:

1. Review the warranty information shipped with your product.

2. Contact Agilent to obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) and return address. For assistance finding
Agilent contact information, go to www.agilent.com/find/assist (worldwide contact information for repair and
service) or refer to the “Support” information on the product web page at www.agilent.com/find/M9361A.

3. Write the following information on a tag and attach it to the malfunctioning equipment:

l Name and address of owner. A P.O. box is not acceptable as a return address.
l Module serial number(s). The serial number label is located on the side panel of the module. The

serial number can also be read from the Soft Front Panel interface – after the hardware is installed.

l Description of failure or service required.

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 9

Step 2: Verify M9361A Shipment Contents

4. Pack the module in its original ESD bag and packing carton. If the original carton is not available, use bubble
wrap or packing peanuts and place the instrument in a sealed container and mark the container “FRAGILE”.

5. On the shipping label, write ATTENTION REPAIR DEPARTMENT and the RMA number.

If any correspondence is required, refer to the product by serial number and model number.

Step 2: Verify M9361A Shipment Contents

The following items are included with your Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter order:

l Agilent M9392A PXI Vector Signal Analyzer Software and Product Information CD. It contains software,

drivers and all product printed documentation in PDF format (M9392-10002).

l Agilent IO Libraries Suite CD (E2094-60003).

l Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide in hard copy (M9361-90001)

l Calibration certificate

l Commercial calibration certificate with test data (M9361-UK6) if ordered.

l Recalibration letter

l Cable, semi-rigid, A3 (M9361-20001)

l Cable, semi-rigid, A4 (M9361-20002)

All the files contained on the CDs are available for download at www.agilent.com/find/M9361A.

Step 3: Install the Software

System Requirements

Topic Windows®7 and Vista Requirements Windows®XP Requirements

Operating system

Processor speed

Available mem­ory

Available disk
space

Video

Browser Microsoft®Internet Explorer 7.0 or greater

1

This is the required diskspace for installation. Typically, lessdisk space is required for operation than is required for installation.

2

.NET Framework Runtime Components are installed by default with Windows 7 and Vista. T herefore, you may not need this amount of disk

space.

Windows 7 (32 bit and 64 bit);
Windows®Vista, SP1 and SP2 (32-bit and 64-bit)

1 GHz 32-bit (x86), 1 GHz 64-bit (x64), no support for Ita­nium64

1 GB minimum

1.5 GB available hard disk space, includes:

l 1 GB available for Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 SP1
l 100 MB for Agilent IO Libraries Suite

Support for DirectX 9 graphics with 128 MB graphics mem­ory recommended (Super VGA graphics is supported)

Window®XP, Service Pack 3

600 MHz or higher required
800 MHz recommended

256 MB minimum (1 GB or greater rec­ommended)

2

Super VGA (800x600) 256 colors or
more

Microsoft®Internet Explorer 6.0 or
greater

10 Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide

Step 3: Install the Software

Hardware Requirements

Topic Requirements

Chassis cPCI(J1), PXI-1, or PXIe hybrid chassis slot
Host controller A PXI or PXI Express embedded controller or remote controller (external PC connected to the chassis

by a PCI-to-PXI interface) is required.

Embedded
controller

Remote controller (for Agilent M9018A chassis use only) Agilent M9021 Cable Interface x8 with one of the following PC

Agilent M9036A or an embedded controller that meets the following requirements:

l PXIe system controller (PXI-1 embedded controllers are not compatible)
l Utilize a 2x8, 4x4, or 1x4 PXIe system slot link configuration.
l Run one of the operating systems listed in System Requirements (above).

interface options:

l Agilent M9045B PCIe ExpressCard Adaptor x1, with cable (for a laptop PC)
l Agilent M9048A PCIe Desktop Adaptor x8, with cable (for desktop PCs)

Or an equivalent remote controller using a PC running one of the operating systems listed in System
Requirements (above).

Power up the Controller

If you are using a remote controller and you have installed the interface cable, you must power up

the chassis BEFORE you power up the PC. When you power down your chassis, Shut Down the PC
BEFORE you power down the chassis.

If you are using an embedded controller, complete the following steps:

1. Install the embedded controller module into the compatible chassis. The Agilent M9036A PXIe Embedded
Controller and Agilent M9018A PXIe Chassis are recommended. Please refer to the embedded controller
and chassis documentation for further details.

2. Connect peripherals (mouse, keyboard, monitor).

3. Power up the chassis.

Software Installation Overview

This installation includes the following:

l Agilent IO Libraries Suite (IOLS), which includes the Agilent Connections Expert. This software is included

with your shipment (CD part number E2094-60003), and is also available at www.agilent.com/find/iosuite.
This software must be installed first.

Version 16.3.16603.3 (or newer) of the Agilent IO Libraries Suite is required.

l Instrument software, which includes the SFP, device drivers (IVI-C, IVI-COM, and LabVIEW G) and doc-

umentation for the M9392A Vector Signal Analyzer. This software is included with your shipment (CD part
number M9392-10002), and is also available at www.agilent.com/find/M9392A.

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 11

Step 3: Install the Software

Software Installation Procedure

1. Install the Agilent IOLibraries Suite from the Agilent IOLibraries Suite CD (E2094-60003) provided in
your ship kit. Follow the installer prompts to install the IO libraries.

2. Install the M9361A product software:

a. Using the Agilent M9392A PXI Vector Signal Analyzer Software and Product Information CD

(M9392-10002), launch the installer.

b. Follow the installer prompts. Choose a "Complete" installation to install all software and doc-

umentation, or a "Custom" installation to select from a listing of modules and other features.

3. Power down the host PC.

If you are using a remote controller, Shut Down the PC BEFORE you power down the chas-

sis. When you restore power, power up the chassis BEFORE you power up the PC.

12 Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide

Step 4: Install the Module

Step 4: Install the Module

PXI hardware does not support "hot-swap" (changing modules while power is applied to the chassis)

capabilities. Before installing or removing a module to/from the chassis, power off the chassis to pre­vent damage to the module.

This module can be used in a chassis with cPCI(J1), PXI-1, or PXIe hybrid slots.

Recommended Practices for Temperature Control

l Use slot blockers and EMC filler panels in empty module slots to assure proper operating temperatures.

l At ambient temperatures above 45° C (113° F) set the chassis fan to High.

l The use of an Agilent M9018A Chassis and slot blockers optimizes module temperature performance.

Module Installation Procedure

The module can be installed in any standard PXI slot marked with a peripheral slot com­patibility image (a circle containing the slot number).

The module can also be installed in any hybrid PXI slot marked with a peripheral slot com­patibility image (the letter “H” and a solid circle containing the slot number).

1. Make sure that the line cord is plugged in to establish earth ground and that the chassis power switch is Off .

2. If the chassis has multiple fan speed settings, ensure that the fan switch is set to AUTO.

3. Position the chassis to provide ample space between the chassis fan intake and exhaust vents. Blockage by
walls or obstructions affects the air flow needed for cooling. (Refer to the chassis documentation for more
information about cooling).

4. Before inserting the module into the chassis, back the mounting screws out to ensure that there is no inter­ference between the screws and the mounting rails.

5. Holding the module by the injector/ejector handle, slide it into an available PXI (or hybrid) slot, as shown in
the figure below.

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 13

Step 4: Install the Module

a. Install the module into the slot

of the chassis by placing the
module card edges into the
front module guides (top and
bottom).

b. Slide the module to the rear of

the chassis and ensure that the
injector/ejector handle is
pushed down in the unlatched
(downward) position.

c. Slide the module completely

into the chassis. When you
begin to feel resistance, pull up
on the injector/ejector handle to
fully inject the module into the
chassis.

7. Secure the front panel to the chassis using the two module front-panel mounting screws. Performance may
suffer if the screws are not tightened properly.

8. Verify that the PXI chassis fans are operable and free of dust and other contaminants that may restrict airflow.

9. Install filler panels and slot blockers after installing the module. Missing filler panels or slot blockers may dis­rupt air circulation in the chassis.

10. Use the Cabling Diagram plus the Cable and Module Table on the next page to attach the cables to the instru­ment. The torque specification for SMA connectors is 8 Lb-In (0.904 Nm).

11. If you are using a PCIe Cable Interface, such as the Agilent M9021, connect the Cable Interface in the chassis
to the PChost per the instructions that came with the Cable Interface.

12. Power up the PXI chassis.

13. Reboot the PC host.

14 Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Front Panel Features

The maximum input to the RF input connector (RF IN) must not exceed +10 dBm.

When using an M9360A with an M9361A, caution must be exercised. Although the M9360A can

accept input power levels of +10 dBm without damage, the operating range of the M9361A is -30
dBm to -160 dBm. Attenuation is required so that the power coming out of the M9360A does not
exceed the maximum power that can be applied to the M9361A RF IN connector.

The maximum input to the AUX IN connector must not exceed +10 dBm.

The maximum output of the IF OUT connector can exceed +20 dBm.

Front Panel Connectors

Connector Description

RF IN This SMA female connector inputs a signal (2.75 GHz to 26.5 GHz) from the Agilent

M9360A PXI Attenuator/Preselector to be downconverted. The operating range is -30

dBm to -160 dBm. Damage occurs above +10 dBm.

LO IN

VIDEO OUT This SMB male connector is used to deliver the video output signal which is enabled at all

AUX IN This SMB male connector is used to switch an external IF signal (100 kHz to 500 MHz)

IF OUT This SMB male connector is used to output an IF signal from the M9351A or the M9361A

This SMA female connector receives the LOsignal from the M9360A. This LOsignal is
used to downconvert the RF signal that is input to the RF IN connector and produce a 500
MHz IF OUT.

times. This video output is a DC level which is representative of the total signal power con­tained within the IF passband of the instrument.

directly to the M9361A IF OUT and bypassing the downconversion process of the
M9361A; this IF signal is directly available from the IF OUT connector.

to the INPUT 1 connector of the Agilent M9202A PXIe IF Digitizer. This signal frequency is
approximately 500 MHz.

Step 4: Install the Module

Front Panel LEDs

LED Description

STATUS This LED indicates the overall health of the M9361A and is a summary of the following

LEDs, covering the power supplies and other hardware operations. The M9361A has
extensive built-in-tests (BIT) and specific issues can be identified by observing the status
indicator on the front panel.

The front panel
LED behavior is
valid only when
the soft front
panel (SFP) is
running or when
the Ini-
tialize func­tion/method

ACCESS Each time the module is written to, or read from, this amber LED blinks.

has been
called..

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 15

This LED has four possible states:

l Green = Power supplies are operational and in specification. It also indicates that

all module hardware is operational.

l Amber = Power supplies are operational and in specification, but there is a hard-

ware failure.

l Red = Power supply failure and a hardware failure.
l Off = Power supply failure, but the other module hardware appears to be func-

tional. Since a power supply failure can mask other hardware problems, this is
not an indication that only a power supply could be at fault.

Step 4: Install the Module

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter System Connections

This section contains a cabling diagram for the Agilent M9392A PXI Vector Signal Analyzer, a cable and module
association table, and a block diagram for the M9361A.

Agilent M9392A PXI Vector Signal Analyzer Cabling Diagram

Cable and Module Table

Ships
with
Module

M9360A A1 M9360-20001 M9302A LO OUT – M9360A LO IN Cable, semi-rigid, Master LO (SMA-SMA)
M9351A A2 M9351-20001 M9360A RF 1 OUT – M9351A RF IN Cable, semi-rigid (SMA-SMA)
M9361A A3 M9361-20001 M9360A RF 2 OUT – M9361A RF IN Cable, semi-rigid (SMA-SMA)
M9361A A4 M9361-20002 M9360A LO 2 OUT – M9361A LO IN Cable, semi-rigid (SMA-SMA)
M9351A A5 M9351-20002 M9360A LO 1 OUT – M9351A LO IN Cable, semi-rigid (SMA-SMA)
M9351A B1 8120-5016 M9351A REF IN – M9302A REF 1 OUT Cable, coaxial, SMB-SMB (160 mm)
M9351A B2 8121-2072 M9351A IF OUT – M9361A AUX IN Cable, coaxial, SMB-SMB (75 mm)
M9202A C3 8120-5531 M9361A IF OUT – M9202A INPUT 1 Cable, SMB - SMA coaxial (190 mm)
M9202A C4 8121-2042 M9302A REF 2 OUT – M9202A REF IN Cable, A06/A32 80G (SMB-MMCX)
M9202A * 8121-2041 n/a Cable, A06/A32 190G (SMB-MMCX)
M9202A * 8121-2041 n/a Cable, A06/A32 190G (SMB-MMCX)

Torque specification for all SMA connectors is 8 Lb-In (0.904 Nm).

Ref

Agilent Part

Des

Number Connection Cable Description

* These cables are not required to configure an Agilent M9392A PXI Vector Signal Analyzer. See the Agilent M9392A PXI

Vector Signal Analyzer Cabling Diagram above. These cables are provided for using the Agilent M9202A PXIe IF Digitizer
in other applications.

No cables are shipped with the Agilent M9302A PXI Local Oscillator module.

16 Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide

Agilent M9361A Block Diagram

Step 5: Verify Operation of the M9361A Module

Step 5: Verify Operation of the M9361A Module

The intention of this step is to verify correct operation of the newly installed module. Run Agilent Connection
Expert (from the desktop icon, or from Start > Programs > Agilent IO Libraries Suite > Agilent Connection
Expert). It will display the modules that are installed. Review the configuration data and then launch the SFP.
This will provide control of the module for self test and other operational verification procedures.

Agilent M9361A Instrument Properties

If the module does
not appear in the Agilent Con­nection Expert, restart your PC
or embedded controller and start
Agilent Connection Expert
again.

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 17

Step 5: Verify Operation of the M9361A Module

Agilent M9361A Installed Drivers

Conduct M9361A Self Test

The purpose of the self test is to verify power and perform an internal check of module sub-components.

Conduct M9361A Operational Check (optional)

Requirements for Operational Check

The Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter operational check measures the signal paths from the LO IN and RF IN
connectors to the IF OUT connector. The following process demonstrates that all associated switches, connectors,
cables and circuitry are operational.

Required Hardware

To demonstrate that the module functions properly requires external equipment. This includes a precision micro­wave source and a power meter. You will not be using the module interconnect cables, so some high-quality flex­ible 3.5 mm cables will be required, plus adaptors to connect the PSG (precision signal generator) and power
meter to 3.5 mm connectors. Please refer to the following table for recommended hardware.

18 Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide

Hardware Description

Agilent E8257D-532 or E8267D-532 Precision Signal Generator 31.8 GHz
Agilent N1913A or N1914A Single / Dual Channel Power Meter
Agilent N8485A, Option 100 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz Power Sensor
Agilent 11730A Power Sensor Cable

M9361A Operational Check Procedure

First run the Agilent M9302A PXI Local Oscillator operational check to ensure that it is operating
correctly. If an M9302A LOis not available, a second PSG can be substituted for the LOand the
output power set to +15 dBm ±2 dBm.

Step 5: Verify Operation of the M9361A Module

Make sure that the IF OUT connector of the M9351A is not routed to the AUX IN connector of the

M9361A.

1. Run the M9361A soft front panel (SFP).

2. Conduct a Self Test (Utility > Self Test... > Run Self Test).

a. If self test passes, go to next step.

b. If the self test fails, the module needs repair. See "Return a Module for Service" on page 9.

3. On the M9361A SFP Primary Settings:

a. Set the Input Frequency to 2.25 GHz.

b. Set the Input Level to -40 dBm (-40 dBm is the default).

4. Using the M9302A LOSFP:

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 19

Step 5: Verify Operation of the M9361A Module

a. Set the M9302A LO Frequency to 2.75 GHz

b. Connect the M9302A LO OUT to the M9361A LO IN

5. On the PSG:
a. Set the frequency to 2.25 GHz.

b. Set the amplitude to -40 dBm.

c. Connect the PSG RF OUT to the M9361A RF IN.

6. Connect the power meter to the M9361A IF OUT. The power should be between -1 and -6 dBm.

7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 with the source set to 8.45 GHz, 17.4 GHz and 26.35 GHz and the M9302A LO set to

8.95 GHz, 5.97 GHz and 8.95 GHz (M9302A LO 500 MHz above the source). LO frequencies of 5.97 GHz
and 8.95 GHz generate third order harmonics of 17.9 GHz and 26.85 GHz, used to downconvert 17.4 GHz and

26.35 GHz to 500 MHz.

8. Using the M9361A SFP:

a. Select Custom Settings (click inside the small square and a check mark appears).

b. Select AUX IN.

9. Remove the cable from RF IN.

10. Set the PSG to 500 MHz, -2 dBm.

11. Connect the cable from the PSG RF OUT to AUX IN.

12. The delta in power between AUX IN and IF OUT should be ≤ 3 dB.

13. If all measurements are correct the module is working properly, if not the module requires servicing.

If a Problem is Found

If a problem is found, do the following checks:

1. Verify that all relevant hardware is turned on.

2. Verify that the M9302A and M9361A paths are correctly set from the SFPs and that the signal generator is set

to the proper power/frequency and that all cables are properly connected. All SMA connector are torqued to 8
Lb-In (0.904 Nm).

3. Check that the Status LED is green.

4. Verify that the ACCESS LED flashes each time that the module is written to.

5. See "Return a Module for Service" on page 9 for details on sending the module to Agilent Technologies Inc.

for service.

20 Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide

Step 6: Installation is Complete

Step 6: Installation is Complete

Proceed to program your product by means of the application programming interface (API) for the supplied driv­ers.

API Overview

IVI Drivers

Agilent's IVI drivers simplify the creation and maintenance of instrument control applications in a variety of devel­opment environments; they allow programmatic control of instrumentation while providing a greater degree of
instrument interchangeability and code reuse. IVI drivers currently come in two basic types: IVI-COM and IVI-C.
Although the functionality offered by both types of drivers is often very similar, the fundamental differences in
interface technology results in a very different end-user experience. The IVI drivers support compiling application
programs for 32- or 64-bit platforms.

Supported ADEs: Arguably the most important consideration in comparing IVI-COM and IVI-C drivers is the
end user experience in various ADEs. Since IVI-COM drivers are based on Microsoft COM technology, it's not
surprising that IVI-COM drivers offer the richest user experience in Microsoft ADEs. Users working in Visual
C++, Visual C#, Visual Basic.NET, and Visual Basic 6 enjoy a host of features, such as object browsers, Intel­liSense, and context-sensitive help.

When you install the product software, the IVI driver files are installed in the standard IVI Foundation directories
(for example, C:\Program Files\IVIFoundation\IVI\Drivers\AgM9361). Example programs are provided to dem­onstrate most driver functionality (for example, C:\Program Files\IVI Foundation\IVI\Drivers\AgM9361\Exa­mples). The reference material for the driver functions (a Microsoft HTML Help .chm file) is installed with the
IVI driver and is available for Microsoft Visual Studio's IntelliSense context linking. In addition, you can directly
access the chm file (AgM9361.chm) from this Start menu location: Start > All Programs > Agilent IVI Drivers
> AgM9361 > Documentation.

LabVIEW Driver

In addition to the IVI drivers, Agilent provides a LabVIEW driver that includes all the functionality of the IVI-C
driver. When you install the product software, the LabVIEW driver is installed to each LabVIEW instr.lib direc­tory for each version of LabVIEW you have on your computer. Example programs are provided to demonstrate
most driver functionality. The reference information for the driver (a Microsoft HTML Help .chm file) is also
installed with the driver and the content is available from LabVIEW's Context Help window. In addition, you can
directly access the chm file (AgM9361_LabVIEW_Help.chm\) from this Start menu location: Start > All Pro-
grams > Agilent > M9392 > AgM9361 LabVIEW Help.

M9361A Specifications

The Data Sheet for the M9361A is included on the Agilent M9392A VSA Software and Product Information CD
that came with your module. This document contains specification information. To find the latest update, go to

http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/5990-6059EN.pdf.

Agilent M9361A PXI Downconverter Startup Guide 21

This information is subject to change
without notice.
© Keysight Technologies 2010 - 2013
Published in USA, January 17, 2013
M9361-90001

www.keysight.com