User’s Guide
Agilent Technologies
ESG Family Signal Generators
Serial Number Prefixes:
(Affix Label Here)
Part No. E4400-90323
Printed in USA
April 2002
© Copyright 1999-2002 Agilent Technologies, Inc.
ii
Contents
1. Preparing for Use
Installing the Signal Generator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
Verifying Signal Generator Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-7
See Agilent Technologies ESG Family Internet Page for the Latest Information . . . . . . . .1-10
2. Using Functions
Setting Frequency and Power Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Setting Up Internally Generated Amplitude Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5
Setting Up Internally Generated Frequency Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7
Creating a Step Sweep and a List Sweep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9
Saving and Recalling an Instrument State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12
Enabling Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
If You Encounter a Problem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16
Returning a Signal Generator to Agilent Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-20
Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21
3. Front and Rear Panel
Front Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2
Display Annotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-8
Rear Panel Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12
4. Hardkey and Softkey Reference
AM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2
Ampl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-13
Amplitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-19
Arrow Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-20
Display Contrast Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-21
FM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-22
Freq. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-34
Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-38
Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-39
Hold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-40
Incr Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-41
I/Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-42
LF Out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-51
Local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-63
Mod On/Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-64
Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-65
Numeric Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-66
Phase Modulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-67
Power Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-80
Preset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-81
Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-82
Recall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-86
Return. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-89
RF On/Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-90
Save. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-91
Sweep/List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-96
Trigger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-109
Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-111
iii
Contents
5. Memory Structure
Memory Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
File Storage – the Memory Catalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
6. Safety and Regulatory
Safety Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Instrument Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
General Safety Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Statement of Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5
Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Declaration of Conformity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Compliance with German Noise Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
iv
ESG Family Signal Generators
1Preparing for Use
This chapter contains procedures that show you how to install your signal generator and
how to perform a functional check to verify signal generator operation. Also, look here for
our Internet address for the Agilent Technologies ESG family.
User’s Guide 1-1
Preparing for Use ESG Family Signal Generators
Installing the Signal Generator
Installing the Signal Generator
This section contains procedures for properly installing your signal generator:
• checking the shipment
• installing front handles and rack flange kits
• meeting electrical and environmental requirements
• adjusting the display
• selecting the signal generator’s GPIB address
• selecting the programming language
Checking the Shipment
1. Inspect the shipping container for damage.
Look for signs of damage such as a dented or torn shipping container, or cushioning
material that shows signs of unusual stress or compacting.
2. Carefully remove the conte nts from t he shippi ng co ntainer a nd verif y th at your order is
complete. A power cord and a documentation set are shipped standard with your signal
generator. Verify that you have received any options that you ordered.
Installing Front Handles and Rack Mount Flanges
You can attach handles to the front of the signal generator to facilitate transportation of
the instrument. Handles are available in a kit which can be ordered when the signal
generator is purchased (Option 1CN), or at any time afterward. Assembly instructions are
included with the kit. The kit part number is listed in Table 1-1.
You can also rack mount the signal generator. Hardware is available in kits to install rack
mount flanges on the signal generator without or with handles. These kits can be ordered
when the signal generator is purchased (Options 1CM and 1CP), or at any time afterward.
Assembly instructions are included with the kits. The kit part numbers are listed in
Table 1-1.
Table 1-1 Front Handle and Rack Mount Flange Kits
Option Description Part Number
Option 1CN Front Handle Kit 5063-9227
Option 1CM Rack Mount Kit without Handles 5063-9214
1-2
Option 1CP Rack Mount Kit with Handles 5063-9221
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Preparing for Use
Installing the Signal Generator
Meeting Electrical and Environmental Requirements
Line Settings
CAUTION This product has an autoranging line voltage input. Be sure that the supply
voltage is within the specified range.
The available AC power source must meet the following requirements:
Voltage:
• 100/115 volts nominal (90-132 volt range)
• 230/240 volts nominal (198-254 volt range)
Frequency:
• for 100/115 volts: 50/60/400 Hz nominal
• for 230/240 volts: 50/60 Hz nominal
Power:
• 200 watts maximum
WARNING This is a Safety Class 1 Product (provided with a protective earthing
ground incorporated in the power cord). The mains plug shall only
be inserted in a socket outlet provided with a protective earth
contact. Any interruption of the protective conductor inside or
outside of the product is likely to make the product dangerous.
Intentional interruption is prohibited.
CAUTION Always use the three-prong AC po wer cord supplied with this prod uct. F ailure
to ensure adequate earth grounding by not using t his cord ma y c ause p roduct
damage.
Verify that the power cable is not damaged and that the power source socke t outlet
provides a protective earth contact.
Install the instrument so that the detachable power cord is readily identifiable and is
easily reached by the operator. The detachable power cord is the instrument disconnecting
device. It disconnects the mains circuits from the mains supply before other parts of the
instrument. The front panel switch is only a standby switch and is not a LINE switch.
Alternatively, an externally installed switch or circuit breaker (which is readily
identifiable and easily reached by the operator) may be used as a disconnecting device.
User’s Guide 1-3
Preparing for Use ESG Family Signal Generators
Installing the Signal Generator
Ventilation
CAUTION Ventilation Requirements: When installing the product in a cabinet, the
convection into and out of the product must not be restricted. The ambient
temperature (outside the cabinet) must be less than the maximum operating
temperature of the product by 4 °C for every 100 watts dissipated in the
cabinet. If the total power dissipat ed in t he ca binet is great er than 8 00 w a tts,
then forced convection must be used.
Cooling holes are located on the sides and bottom of the instrument cover and the rea r
panel of the instrument. Do not allow these holes to be obstructed as they allow air flow
through the signal generator.
Environment
This product is designed for use in the following environmental conditions:
• indoor use
• < 15,000 feet (4,572 meters) altitude
• 0 to 55 °C temperature, unless specified differ ently
• maximum relative humidity 80% for temperatures up to 31 °C, decreasing linearly to
50% relative humidity at 40 °C
CAUTION This product is designed for use in INSTALLATION CATEGORY II and
POLLUTION DEGREE 2, per IEC 1010 and 664 respectively.
Proper Usage and Cleaning
The signal generator protects against finger access to hazardous parts within the
enclosure, but does not protect against the ingress of water.
WARNING 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 only (in which all means for protection are intact).
WARNING To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the signal generator 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.
1-4
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Preparing for Use
Installing the Signal Generator
Adjusting the Display Contrast
You can adjust the contrast of the display by pressing the decrease contrast key or
the increase contrast key . These keys are located on the front panel below the
display.
Pressing the decrease contrast key and holding it down causes the display background to
gradually darken in comparison to the text on the display. The minimum contrast setting
is not a completely black display. Some contrast between the background and the text will
still be visible.
Pressing the increase contrast key and holding it down causes the display background to
gradually brighten in comparison to the text on the display. If the background does not
appear to change, it is probably set to the maximum contrast.
Selecting Inverse Video
The normal display mode for the signal generator is dark text on a light background. To
change to inverse video (light text on a dark background), press
Invers e Video Off On to On. Inverse video is a persistent state; it is not affected by an
instrument preset or by a power cycle.
Utility > Display and set
Adjusting the Screen Saver
You can increase the life expectancy of the signal generator’s disp lay light by turning on
the screen saver. Leaving the display lit for long periods of time or turning the display on
and off frequently decreas es the life of the b ulb . W it h the screen sa ver on, the displa y li gh t
is turned off after a defined period of time with no input to the front panel. The display
light turns on again when any front panel key is pressed or when a remote command is
sent.
The screen saver is set to off at the factory. You can turn it on by pressing
Screen Saver Off On. Each time you press Screen Saver Off On the selection toggles between Off
On.
and
You can adjust the screen saver mode to turn the light on and off or to turn both the light
and text on and off. Press
Only and Light & Text. Setting the mode to Light Only turns the display light off but leaves the
Utility > Display > Screen Saver Mode. You can toggle between Light
text visible at a low intensity. To prevent the text from burning the display, if you are
leaving the display unchanged for long periods of time, set the mode to
mode turns the display light and the text off.
The screen saver delay is set to 1 hour at the factory. You can view and change the delay by
pressing
Screen Saver Delay in the same menu. The current screen saver delay is displa yed in
the softkey label and also in the active entry area. To change the delay, enter a new value
using the numeric keypad and then press
Enter, or rotate the front panel knob. The
acceptable range of delay values is 1 through 12 hours in 1 hour increments.
Utility > Display >
Light & Text. This
The screen saver settings do not change when
Preset is pressed, nor when power to the
instrument is cycled.
User’s Guide 1-5
Preparing for Use ESG Family Signal Generators
Installing the Signal Generator
Selecting the Signal Generator’s GPIB Address
The signal generator’s GPIB address is set to 19 at the factory. You can view and change
the address by pressing
Utility > GPIB/RS-232 > GPIB Address. The current GPIB address is
displayed in the softkey label and also in the active entry area. To change the address,
enter a new value using the numeric keypad and then press
Enter, or rotate the front panel
knob. The acceptable range of addresses is 0 through 30.
The GPIB address is a persistent state; it is not affected by an instrument preset or by a
power cycle.
Selecting the Signal Generator’s Programming Language
The default programming language for the signal generator is Standard Commands for
Programmable Instruments (SCPI). You can change this language selection by pressing
Utility > GPIB/RS-232 > Remote Language. The Remote Language menu allows you to select
between Agilent 8656/57-compatible language, Agilent 8648-compatible language, and
SCPI language. If you have Option UN8, the Remote Language menu allows you to select
between Agilent 8656/57-compatible language, Agilent 8657D language (NADC digital
modulation capability), Agilent 8657D language (PDC digital modulation capability), and
Agilent 8657J (PHS digital modulation capability). Press the softkey for the selection that
you desire.
You can also change the language selection by sending the appropriate command over
GPIB. Refer to the programming guide for instructions for changing the language over
GPIB.
You can set the signal generator to default to a selected language as a persistent state
(remains unchanged after an instrument preset or power cycl e). Press
Power On/Preset > Preset Language. The Preset Language menu allow you to select between
Utility >
SCPI, the Agilent 8656/57-compatible programming languages, and
Agilent 8648-compatible language. Press the softkey for the selection that you desire .
1-6
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Preparing for Use
Verifying Signal Generator Operation
Verifying Signal Generator Operation
The operator’s chec k is app ropriate as a daily functional check by users, or wh enever the
integrity of the signal generator is in question. Use the operator’s check to verify proper
operation of the signal generator. The operator’s check does not ensure performance to
specifications. To verify specifications, refer to the calibration guide.
Operator’s Check
Perform the following tasks in order:
Power On the Signal Generator and Check for Error Messages
This procedure verifies that the signal generator powers up and that the internal
instrument check identifies no errors.
1. Turn power on to the signal generator by pressing the power switch. The green LED
will light. Let the instrument warm up for one hour.
2. Cycle the power to the signal generator. The green LED should again be lit and the
instrument will perform a check.
3. When the display is lit, check to see if the
4. If the
Utility > Error Info. The first error message in the queue will be shown in the text area of
ERR annunciator is turned on, review the error messages in the queue by pressing
ERR annunciator is turned on.
the display. Refer to the error messages guide for information about the error message.
If there is more than one error message (each message will be designated as 1 of n),
press the
5. When you have resolved all of the error messages, press
View Next Error Message softkey until you have seen all of the messages.
Clear Error Queue(s) to delete the
messages. Then restart this procedure at step two.
NOTE For ESG-AP, ESG-DP, and Option 1E5 signal generators, ERROR 514,
Reference Oven Cold
connected to AC line power. The
annunciator will both turn on. The
, will occur whenever the signal generator is first
OVEN COLD annunciator and the ERR
OVEN COLD annunciator will automatically
clear after approximately 5 minutes. The error queue cannot be cleared,
however, until the OVEN COLD annunciator has turned off.
Verify Maximum Specified Power is Available at the Maximum Frequency
This procedure verifies that there are no unleveled power indications or error messages at
the maximum specified frequency and power level.
1. Calibrate the power meter with the power sensor. (Refer to the power meter’s manual
for assistance.)
2. Connect the power sensor to the signal generator’s RF OUTPUT connector as shown in
Figure 1 -1.
User’s Guide 1-7
Preparing for Use ESG Family Signal Generators
Verifying Signal Generator Operation
Figure 1-1 Operator’s Check Equipment Setup
3. Preset the signal generator to the factory-defined conditions:
a. Press
b. Press
Utility > Power On/Preset and toggle Preset until Normal is highlighted.
Preset.
4. Set the signal generator to its maximum specified frequency:
a. Press
Frequency.
b. Use the numeric keypad to enter the signal generator’s maximum specified
frequency as shown in Table 1-2.
c. Ter mi nate your entry by pressing the
GHz softkey.
5. Set the signal generator to its maximum specified power level:
a. Press
Amplitude.
b. Use the numeric keypad to enter the signal generator’s maximum specified power
level as shown in Table 1-2.
c. Ter mi nate your entry by pressing the
6. Toggle the front panel
The display
RF ON annunciator will turn on.
RF On/Off key to turn on RF power to the RF OUTPUT connector .
dBm softkey.
7. Verify that the power meter reads the maximum specified output power including the
power level accuracy limits.
8. Check to see if the
UNLEVEL or ERR display annunciators have turned on. If these
annunciators are on, refer to the service guide for troubleshooting information.
1-8
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Preparing for Use
Verifying Signal Generator Operation
Table 1-2 Frequency and Power Level Limits
Power Level
Accuracy
Limits
0.7 dB
±
ESG Model
E4400B
Maximum
Specified
Frequency
Maximum
Specified
Power
1 GHz +13 dBm
E4430B
E4423B
E4434B
E4420B
2 GHz +10 dBm
0.7 dB
±
E4431B
E4424B
E4435B
E4421B
3 GHz +10 dBm
1.0 dB
±
E4432B
E4425B
E4436B
E4422B
4 GHz +7 dBm
1.0 dB
±
E4433B
E4426B
E4437B
1. The values provided are confidence levels only; they are
not specifications and may vary with installed options.
1
User’s Guide 1-9
Preparing for Use ESG Family Signal Generators
See Agilent Technologies ESG Family Internet Page for the Latest Information
See Agilent Technologies ESG Family Internet P age for the Latest Information
Get the latest news, product and support information, application literature and more.
Agilent Te chnologies Internet address for the ESG family is:
http://www.agilent.com/find/esg.
1-10
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators
2Using Functions
This chapter contains procedures that show you how to use some of the major functions of
your signal generator including setting frequency and power levels, setting up
modulations, creating step and list sweeps, saving and recalling instrument states, and
enabling options.
Information is also provided on what you should do if you encounter a problem with your
signal generator.
User’s Guide 2-1
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
Setting Frequency and Power Levels
Setting Frequency and Power Levels
Using these procedures, you will learn how to:
• set the RF frequency
• set a frequency reference and a frequency offset
• set the RF output power level
• set an amplitude reference and an amplitude of fset
To Set the RF Frequency
1. Turn on power to the signal generator: press the power switch, , so that the green
LED is on. The signal generator will perform an internal check.
2. Press the green
Preset key. The signal generator will return to a set of factory-defined
conditions.
NOTE Y ou can change the preset conditions to a user -defined instrument state.
However, for the purpose of these examples, use the factory-defined preset
state (the Preset Normal User softkey in the Utility menu must be set to Normal).
3. Observe the frequency area of the display (in the upper left-hand cor ner). It should
display the maximum specified frequency of your signal generator.
4. The signal generator is set to output an RF si gnal, however the
On before the RF signal is available at the RF OUTPUT connector. Press RF On/Off.
to
Notice that the display annunciator changes from
RF OFF to RF ON. The maximum
RF On/Off key must be set
specified frequency is now being output at the RF OUTPUT connector.
5. Change the frequency to 700 MHz by pressing
Frequency. The current RF frequency is
now displayed in the active entry area of the display. Using the numeric keypad, enter
700 and then press the MHz terminator softkey. The new 700 MHz RF frequency is now
displayed in the frequency area of the display and also in the active entry area.
6. Frequency is still the active function until you press another front panel function key.
Change the frequency again by pressing the up arrow key once. Each press of the up
arrow key increases the frequency by the increment value last set with the
Incr Set key.
The increment value is displayed in the active entry area.
The down arrow works like the up arrow. Practice stepping the frequency up and down
in 1 MHz increments. Use the
Incr Set key to change the increment value to 1 MHz, if
necessary.
7. You can also adjust the RF frequency using the front panel knob. As long as frequency is
the active function (the frequency is displayed in the active entry area), the front panel
knob will increase and decrease the RF frequency. Use the front panel knob to adjust
the frequency back to 700 MHz.
2-2
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Using Functions
Setting Frequency and Power Levels
To Set a Frequency Reference and a Frequency Offset
The following procedure se ts the RF outp ut fr equency as a re ference frequency t o which all
other frequency parameters are relative. The frequency initially shown on the display will
be 0 Hz (the frequency output by the hardware minus the reference fre quency). Although
the display changes, the frequency output does not change. Any subsequent frequency
changes are shown as incremental or decremental to 0 Hz.
1. Press
Preset to return the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
2. Set the RF frequency to 700 MHz.
3. Turn on frequency reference mode and set the current output frequency (700 MHz) as
the reference value. Press
Freq > Freq Ref Set. The frequency displayed is 0 Hz (the
frequency output by the hardware, 700 MHz, minus the reference value, 700 MHz).
Notice that the
4. Set the
RF OFF to RF ON. The RF frequency at the RF OUTPUT connector is 700 MHz.
RF On/Off key to On. Notice that the display annunciator has changed from
REF indicator is turned on and the Freq Ref softkey has toggled to On.
5. Increment the output frequency by 1 MHz. Press the up arrow key. The frequency
display changes to show 1 MHz (the frequency output by the hardware,
700 MHz + 1 MHz, minus the reference frequency, 700 MHz) and the output frequency
changes to 701 MHz.
6. Enter a 1 MHz offset. Press the
keypad and pressing the
MHz terminator softkey. The frequency display shows 2 MHz
Freq Offset softkey and enter 1 MHz using the numeric
(the frequency output by the hardware, 701 MHz, minus the reference frequency,
700 MHz, plus the offset, 1 MHz). Notice that the
OFFSET indicator is turned on. The
frequency at the RF OUTPUT connector is still 701 MHz.
To Set the RF Output Power Level
1. Press Preset to return the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
2. Observe the amplitude area o f the displ ay (i n the up per middle of the display). It should
display −135 dBm. This is the normal preset RF output power level.
3. The signal generator is set to output an RF si gnal, however the
On before the RF signal is available at the RF OUTPUT connector. Press RF On/Off.
to
Notice that the display annunciator changes from
RF OFF to RF ON. The RF signal is
RF On/Off key must be set
now being output at a −135 dBm level at the RF OUTPUT connector.
4. Change the power level to −20 dBm. Press
Amplitude. The current power level is now
displayed in the active entry ar ea of the displa y. Using the numeric keypad and the key,
enter
−20 and then press the dBm softkey. The new −20 dBm RF output power is now
displayed in the amplitude area of the display and also in the active entry area.
5. Amplitude is still the active function until you press another front panel function key.
You can also change the amplitude using the up and down arrow keys and the front
panel knob. Practice changing the amplit ude using these methods al so.
User’s Guide 2-3
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
Setting Frequency and Power Levels
To Set an Amplitude Reference and an Amplitude Offset
The following procedure sets the RF output power as an amplitude reference to which all
other amplitude parameters are relati ve. The ampli tude initiall y shown on the disp lay will
be 0 dB (the power output by the hardware minus the reference power). Although the
display changes, the output po wer does not change. Any subsequent power changes are
shown as incremental or decremental to 0 dB.
1. Press
Preset to return the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
2. Set the RF output power to −20 dBm.
3. Turn on amplitude reference mode and set the current output power (−20 dBm) as the
reference value. Press
Ampl > More (1 of 2) > Ampl Ref Set. The amplitude displayed is 0 dB
(the power output by the hardware, −20 dBm; minus the reference value, −20 dBm).
Notice that the
4. Set the
RF OFF to RF ON. The power at the RF OUTPUT connector is
RF On/Off key to On. Notice that the display annunciator has changed from
REF indicator is turned on and the Ampl Ref softkey has toggled to On.
20 dBm.
−
5. Use the up arrow key to increase the output power by 10 dB. The amplitude display
changes to show 10 dB (the power output by the hardware, −20 dBm; +10 dBm; minus
the referen ce power, −20 dBm) and the output power changes to −10 dBm.
6. Enter a 10 dB offset. Press the
Ampl Offset softkey and enter 10 dB using the numeric
keypad. The amplitude display shows 20 dB (the power output by the hardware,
10 dBm; minus the reference power, −20 dBm; plus the offset, 10 dB). Notice that the
−
OFFS indicator is turned on. The power at the RF OUTPUT connector is still
10 dBm.
−
2-4
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Using Functions
Setting Up Internally Generated Amplitude Modulation
Setting Up Internally Generated Amplitude
Modulation
Using this procedure, you will learn how to generate an amplitude-modulated signal with
the following characteristics:
• carrier frequency set to 1340 kHz
• power level set to 0 dBm
• AM depth set to 90%
• AM rate set to 10 kHz
Setting the Carrier Frequency
1. Preset the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
2. Press the front panel
normal preset value for frequency is displayed in the active entr y are a.
3. Enter 1340 kHz using the numeric keypad and pressing the
new carrier frequency is shown in the frequency area of the display. You should see
1.340 000 00 MHz.
Frequency key. Frequency becomes the active function and the
kHz terminator softkey. The
Setting the Power Level
1. Press the front panel Amplitude key. Amplitude becomes the active function and the
normal preset value for amplitude is displayed in the active entry area.
2. Enter 0 dBm using the numeric keypad and pressing the
new power level is shown in the amplitude area of the displa y. You should see
dBm terminator softkey. The
0.00 dBm.
Setting the AM Depth
1. Press the front panel AM key. The first level menu of softkeys is displayed.
2. Press the
value for AM depth is displayed in the active entry area.
3. Enter 90% using the numeric keypad and pressing the
AM depth is displayed below the
line of the softkey.
AM Depth softkey. AM depth becomes the active function and the normal p reset
% terminator softkey. The new
AM Depth softke y. You sho u ld se e 90.0 % in the second
User’s Guide 2-5
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
Setting Up Internally Generated Amplitude Modulation
Setting the AM Rate
1. In the same AM menu, press the AM Rate softkey. AM rate becomes the active funct i on
and the normal preset value for AM rate is displayed in the active entry area.
2. Enter 10 kHz using the numeric keypad and pressing the
new AM rate is displayed below the
AM Rate softkey. You should see 10.0000 kHz in the
kHz terminator softkey. The
second line of the softkey.
Turning On Amplitude Modulation
The signal generator is now c onfigured to ou tput a 0 dBm, amplitude-modulated carrier at
1340 kHz with the AM depth set to 90% and the AM rate set to 10 kHz. The shape of the
waveform is a sinewave (notice that sine is the default for the
these remaining steps to output the amplitude-modulated signal.
1. In the same AM menu, press the
also, that the
AM display annunciator is turned on indicating that you have enabled
AM Off On softkey. AM toggles from Off to On. Notice,
amplitude modulation.
2. Press the front panel
changes from
RF OFF to RF ON. The modulated signal is now available at the RF
RF On/Off key to toggle RF on. Notice that the display annunciator
OUTPUT connector.
AM Waveform softkey). Follow
2-6
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Using Functions
Setting Up Internally Generated Frequency Modulation
Setting Up Internally Generated Frequency
Modulation
Using this procedure you will configure the signal generator to outp ut a
frequency-modulated signal with the following characteristics:
• carrier frequency set to 104.9 MHz
• power level set to 0 dBm
• FM deviation set to 75 kHz
• FM rate set to 10 kHz
Setting the Carrier Frequency
1. Preset the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
2. Press the front panel
normal preset value for frequency is displayed in the active entr y are a.
3. Enter 104.9 MHz using the numeric keypad and pressing the
The new carrier frequency is shown in the frequency area of the display. You should see
104.900 000 00 MHz.
Frequency key. Frequency becomes the active function and the
MHz terminator softkey.
Setting the Power Level
1. Press the front panel Amplitude key. Amplitude becomes the active function and the
normal preset value for amplitude is displayed in the active entry area.
2. Enter 0 dBm using the numeric keypad and pressing the
new power level is shown in the amplitude area of the displa y. You should see
dBm terminator softkey. The
0.00 dBm.
Setting the FM Deviation
1. Press the front panel FM/ΦM key. The first level menu of FM softkeys is displayed.
2. Press the
preset value for FM deviation is displayed in the active entry are a .
3. Enter 75 kHz using the numeric keypad and pressing the
new FM deviation is displayed below the
second line of the softkey.
FM Dev softkey. FM deviation becomes the active function and the normal
kHz terminator softkey. The
FM Dev softkey. You should see 75.0000 kHz in the
User’s Guide 2-7
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
Setting Up Internally Generated Frequency Modulation
Setting the FM Rate
1. In the same FM menu, press the FM Rate softkey. FM rate becomes the active function
and the normal preset value for FM rate is displayed in the active entry area .
2. Enter 10 kHz using the numeric keypad and pressing the
new FM rate is displayed below the
FM Rate softkey. You should see 10.0000 kHz in the
kHz terminator softkey. The
second line of the softkey.
Turning On Frequency Modulation
The signal generator is now conf igured to output a 0 dBm, frequency-modulated carrier at
104.9 MHz with the FM deviation set to 75 kHz and the FM rate set to 10 kHz. The shape
of the waveform is a sinewa ve. (Notice that sine is the default for the
Press
More (1 of 2 ) to see the softkey.) Follow these remaining steps to output the
frequency-modulated signal.
1. In the same FM menu, press the
that the
FM display annunciator is turned on indicating t hat you have enab led frequency
FM Off On softkey. FM toggles from Off to On. Notice,
modulation.
2. Press the front panel
changes from
RF OFF to RF ON. The modulated signal is now available at the RF
RF On/Off key to toggle RF on. Notice that the display annunciator
OUTPUT connector.
FM Waveform so ft ke y.
2-8
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Using Functions
Creating a Step Sweep and a List Sweep
Creating a Step Sweep and a List Sweep
Using this procedure, you will learn two ways to set up the signal generator to sweep a
defined set of points. You will create a step sweep and then you will use these points as the
basis for a new list sweep.
In the first procedure, you will create a step sweep with the following ten, equally spaced
points:
• frequency range from 525 MHz to 600 MHz
• power level from −20 dBm to 0 dBm
• dwell time 500 ms at each point
In the second procedure, you will take the step sweep points and edit several points to
change the sweep information.
Configuring a Step Sweep
1. Preset the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
2. Press the front panel
Sweep Type List Step softkey to Step.
the
3. Press the
Configure Step Sweep softkey. Another menu is d isplayed with softkeys that you
will use to create the sweep points.
4. Change the start frequency of the step sweep. Press the
525 MHz using the numeric keypad and pressing the
5. Change the stop frequency of the step sweep. Press the
using the numeric keypad and pressing the
6. Set the power level for the start of the step sweep. Press the
−20 dBm using the numeric keypad and pressing the
7. Set the power level for the end of the step sweep. Press the
0 dBm using the numeric keypad and pressing the
8. Set the number of sweep points. Press the
panel knob until the number 8 is displayed.
9. Set the dwell time at each point. Press the
the numeric keypad and pressing the
Sweep/List key. The first level of sweep softkeys is displayed . Toggle
Freq Start softkey. Enter
MHz terminator softkey.
Freq Stop softkey . Enter 600 MHz
MHz terminator softkey.
Ampl Start softkey. Enter
dBm terminator softkey.
Ampl Stop softkey. Enter
dBm terminator softkey.
# Points softkey. Enter 8 b y rot a ting the front
Step Dwell softkey, then enter 500 ms using
msec terminator softkey.
User’s Guide 2-9
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
Creating a Step Sweep and a List Sweep
Turning On Continuous Step Sweep
1. Press Return to move up one menu level.
2. Press the
either the frequency, amplitude, or frequency and amplitude data. Press the
Sweep softkey. Another menu is displayed showing you choices for sweeping
Freq&Ampl
softkey. Selecting this softkey returns you to the previous menu and turns the sweep
function on.
3. Press the
SWEEP display annunciator is turned on indicating that the signal generator is
Sweep Repeat Single Cont softkey to toggle from Single to Cont. Notice th a t th e
sweeping.
4. Press the front panel
changes from
RF OFF to RF ON. The swept RF signal is now available at the RF
RF On/Off key to toggle RF on. Notice that the display annunciator
OUTPUT connector.
Configuring a List Sweep Using Step Sweep Data
1. Press the Sweep Type List Step softkey to toggle from Step to List.
2. Press the
will use to create the sweep points. Notice that the display shows the current list data.
(When no list has been previously created, the default is one point set to the signal
generator’s maximum frequency, −135 dBm, with a dwell time of 2 ms.)
3. Press
defined in the step sweep are automatically loaded into the list.
Configure List Sweep softkey. Another menu is displayed with softkeys that you
More (1 of 2) > Load List From Step Sweep >Confirm Load From Step Sweep. The points you
Editing List Sweep Points
1. For point 1, change the dwell time to 100 ms. Press the right arrow key twice until the
dwell time is highlighted. Press
becomes the active function. Enter 100 ms using the numeric keypad and pressing the
msec terminator softkey. Note that the next it em in the table (in this case , the f requency
value for point 2) becomes highlighted after you press the terminator softkey.
2. For point 4, change the frequency to 560 MHz. Using the arrow keys, highlight the
frequency. Press the
Edit Item softkey to make the frequency for point 4 the active
function. Enter 560 MHz using the numeric keypad and pressing the
softkey.
3. Add a new point between points 7 and 8. Highlight any column in the point 7 row. Press
Insert Row. A copy of the point 7 row is placed between points 7 and 8, creating a new
point 8, and renumbering the successive points.
4. Shift frequency values down one row, beginning at point 8. Highlight the frequency i tem
for point 8, then press
Insert Item . Note that the original frequency values for both po ints
8 and 9 shift down one row, creating an entry for point 10 that has only a frequency
value (the power and dwell time items do not shift down).
More (2 of 2) > Edit Item . The dwell time for point 1
MHz terminator
2-10
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Using Functions
Creating a Step Sweep and a List Sweep
5. The frequency for point 8 is still active. Enter 700 and press the MHz softkey.
NOTE An informational ERR annunciator turns on to indicate that the frequency
and power lists are of unequal size. You will correct this problem in the
following steps, however the annunciator does not turn of f until you clear the
error queue in the Utility menu [Utility > Error Info > Clear Error Queue(s)].
6. The power for point 8 should now be highlighted. Press
Insert Item and change the value
to 1 dBm. Inserting a new power value at point 8 shifts down the original power values
for points 8 and 9 by one row.
7. Highlight the dwell time for point 9, then p ress
Insert Item. A duplicate of the highlighted
dwell time is inserted for point 9, shifting the existing value down to complete the entry
for point 12.
Turning On List Sweep for a Single Sweep
1. Press Return to move up one menu level.
2. Notice that the
You do not need to change it.
3. Press the
SWEEP display annunciator is turned off. The sweep will not occur until it is triggered.
4. Press
that the
Single Sweep. The signal generator will sweep the points in your list once. Notice
SWEEP display annunciator is turned on during the sweep.
5. Change the sweep trigger to occur when you press
Trigger Key.
6. Press More (2 of 2) > Single Sweep to arm the sweep. Notice that the ARMED display
annunciator has turned on.
Sweep softkey is still set to sweep both frequency and amplitude data.
Sweep Repeat Single Cont softkey to toggle from Cont to Single. Notice that the
Trigger > More (1 of 2) > Sweep Trigger >
7. Press the front panel
once and the
User’s Guide 2- 11
SWEEP display annunciator is turned on during the sweep.
T rigger key. The signal generator will sweep the points in your list
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
Saving and Recalling an Instrument State
Saving and Recalling an Instrument State
Using this procedure, you will learn how to save instrument settings to a memory register
and to recall the settings.
1. Preset the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
2. Set up the signal generator with the following changes:
a. Set the frequency to 800 MHz.
b. Set the amplitude to 0 dBm.
c. Enable amplitude modulation (
AM display annunciator is on).
3. Save this instrument state in the signal generator memory in sequence 1, memory
register 01. Press
Save > Select Seq. The sequence number becomes the active function.
The signal generator will display the last sequence that you have used. Set the
sequence to 1 using the arrow keys.
Press
Select Reg. The register number in sequence 1 becomes the active function. The
signal generator will either displa y the last register used [acc ompanied by the text:
] or, if no registers are in use, will display register 00 [accompanied by the text:
use)
(available)]. Use the arrow keys to select register 01.
4. Press
Save Seq[1] Reg[01]. The current instrument settings including the frequency,
amplitude, and modulation changes you made have been stored in signal generator
memory.
5. Preset the signal generator to the factory-defined instrument state.
6. Recall your instrument state. Press the front panel
Recall key. Notice that the Select Seq
softkey shows sequence 1. (This is the last sequence that you have used.) You do not
need to change the sequence . Press
RECALL Reg. The register to be recalled in sequence 1
becomes the active function. Press the up arro w key once to select register 1. Notice that
your stored instrument settings have been immediately recalled.
(in
2-12
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Using Functions
Enabling Options
Enabling Options
The ESG Family Signal Gener ators are a highly flexible platform of instruments that you
can retrofit after purchase to add many new capabilities. Some new optional features are
implemented in hardware that you must install. Some options are implemented in
software but require the presence of optional hardware in the instrument. This example
shows you how to enable both hardware and software options.
Enabling a Hardware Option
1. When you purchase a new hardware option for your signal generator, the hardware and
instructions for installing the hardwa re will be included in a kit that you receive . F ollow
the installation instructions to retrofit your signa l generator with the new hardware.
2. Next, on the signal generator press
Utility > Instrument Adjustments > Hardware Options to
access the Hardware Options menu. An example of the signal generator displa y follows:
The display indicates which options are currently enabled for the signal generator. In
this case Option UN3 is enabled, as indicated by the X placed in the “Selected” column.
3. Highlight the new option that you have just installed. (Use the up/down arrow keys or
the front panel knob.)
4. Press
Select Item. An X will be placed in the “Selected” column.
Two other selection keys are available in this menu to help you identify the proper
options to be enabled.
highlighted option.
Deselect Item removes the X from the “Selected” column in the
Deselect All Items removes all occurrence s of the X from the “Sele cte d”
column.
User’s Guide 2- 13
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
Enabling Options
5. Press Proceed With Reconfiguration to enable all selected options. After pressing this
softkey, press
Confirm Change to verify that you do want to reconfigure the signal
generator with the options that you ha ve selected. If you do not want to c ontinue, press
Return.
CAUTION If you enable an option that does not have the required hardware installed,
the menus for that option will be activated but the option cannot operate,
despite what the menus may seem to indicate.
6. Once you have installed optional hardware in your signal generator, perform a
download of calibration data from the hardware into non-volatile memory by pressing
Calibrate Selected Items. To confirm that you want to start the calibration, press Start
Calibration and Store Results
. The calibration takes several minutes. During the calibration,
a message is displayed indicating the calibration is in progress and showing the percent
complete. When the calibration is fi nished, the Hardware Options menu is returned.
2-14
User’s Guide
ESG Family Signal Generators Using Functions
Enabling Options
Enabling a Software Option
1. A license key is required to enable each software option. This license key is provided on
the license key certificate that you receive when you purchase the software option.
Access the Software Options menu by pressing
Options. An example of the signal generator display follows:
Utility > Instrument Adjustments > Software
Verify that the host ID shown on the display matches the host ID on the license key
certificate. The host ID is a unique number for every instrument. If the host ID on the
license key certificate does not match your instrument, the license key cannot enable
the software option.
2. On the display is a list of software options that are already enabled (if any) and the
software options that can be enabled. Software options are linked to specific hardware
options. Before a soft war e option can be enabled, t he appropr iate hardw are opt ion must
be installed. For example, Option UN5, Multi-Channel CDMA, requires that
Option UND, Intern al Dual Arbitrary Waveform Generator , be installed. If the softw are
option that you intend to install is listed in a grey font, the required hardware may not
be installed. (Look for an X in the “Selec ted” column of the appropriat e hardwar e option
in the Hardware Options menu.)
3. To enable the software option, highlight the desired op tion using the up/down arrow
keys or the front panel knob.
4. Press
Modify License Key. Enter the 12-character license key (from your license key
certificate) using the softkeys and numeric keypad. When you have finished, press the
Enter terminator softkey.
5. Press
Proceed With Reconfiguration > Confirm Change to verify that you do want to
reconfigure the signal generator with the options for which you have provided a license
key. The instrument will enable the options and reboot.
User’s Guide 2- 15
Using Functions ESG Family Signal Generators
If You Encounter a Problem
If You Encounter a Problem
If the signal generator is not op erating as you ex pected, l ook for help in the f ollowing list of
symptoms and possible solutions. If you do not find a solution here, refer to the service
guide.
No RF Output?
The front panel RF On/Off key must be set to On before the RF signal is available at the
RF OUTPUT connector. Check the annunciator on the display. If it reads
RF On/Off once to toggle the RF output on.
RF Output Power too Low?
If the RF output power seems too low, look for an OFFSET or REF indicator in the amplitude
area of the display.
OFFSET tells you that an amplitude offset has been set. An amplitude offset changes the
value shown in the amplitude area of the displ a y but do es not af fect the outp ut power. The
amplitude displayed is equal to the curre nt power output b y the signal genera tor hardw are
plus the value for the offset. To eliminate the offset, press
the numeric keypad and press the
dB terminator softkey.
Ampl > Ampl Offset. Enter 0 using
RF OFF, press
REF tells you that the amplitude reference mode is turned on. When this mode is on, the
displayed amplitude value is not the output power level; rather, it is the current power
output by the signal generator hardware minus the reference value set by the
softkey. To exit the reference mode, press
Ampl and toggle the Ampl Ref softkey to Off. You
Ampl Ref Set
can then reset the output power to the desired level.
Optional Features are Not Working?
If you enable an option that does not have the required hardware installed, the menus for
that option will be activated but the option cannot operate, despite what the menus may
seem to indicate. Check to b e sure that t he required hardwar e is physically installe d in the
signal generator.
If a software option is disabled but should be enabled, try the following suggestions for
resolution:
• Verify that the optional hardware is installed.
• Verify that the hardware option is enabled.
• Verify that the softwa re option is enabled with the correct license key. Refer to your
License Key Certificate for the correct license key or, if your option was installed by
Agilent Technologies, contact your local service office with the instrument model
number, the host ID, and the software option that should be enabled.
2-16
User’s Guide
Loading...