National Instruments PXIe-5665 Calibration Manual

CALIBRATION PROCEDURE

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz and 14 GHz RF Vector Signal Analyzer

This document contains the verification procedures for the National Instruments PXIe-5665
RF vector signal analyzer (VSA). Refer to
calibration solutions.

When not otherwise specified, the procedures in this document refer to both the PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA and the PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA products. In places where the procedures differ
between the two products, the appropriate device settings are specified.

Note PXIe-5665 tuned frequencies greater than 3.6 GHz and procedures with the

preselector enabled for frequencies greater than 3.6 GHz apply only to the PXIe-5665
14 GHz VSA.

NI warrants the PXIe-5665 to meet its published specifications if the individual modules are
calibrated and operating within specifications. For more information about RF system
calibration, visit

ni.com/manuals and search for Letter of Conformance.

Contents

Software.................................................................................................................................... 2

Documentation.......................................................................................................................... 2

Test Equipment......................................................................................................................... 3

Test Conditions......................................................................................................................... 10

System Options......................................................................................................................... 11

Initial Setup............................................................................................................................... 11

Characterizing the Test System ................................................................................................ 11

Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor ....................................................................... 11

Characterizing Power Splitter Reference Output ............................................................. 11

Characterizing Power Splitter Difference......................................................................... 12

Characterizing RF Source Power (Direct) ........................................................................ 13

Characterizing RF Source Power (with Lowpass Filter).................................................. 15

Characterizing RF Source Power (Combined) for Frequencies ≤700 MHz..................... 17

Characterizing RF Source Power (Combined) for Frequencies >700 MHz..................... 19

Characterizing RF Source Power (Through Splitter) ....................................................... 21

Characterizing RF Source Power (with Splitter and Attenuator) ..................................... 23

Characterizing Spectrum Analyzer Response .................................................................. 25

As-Found and As-Left Limits................................................................................................... 27

Verification ............................................................................................................................... 27

Verifying Reference Accuracy ......................................................................................... 27

Verifying Phase Noise ...................................................................................................... 27

ni.com/calibration for more information about

Verifying Frequency Response and Absolute Amplitude Accuracy ................................ 28

Verifying Frequency Response and Absolute Amplitude Accuracy for

Frequencies >10 MHz ........................................................................................... 28

Verifying Average Noise Level ........................................................................................ 35

Verifying Non-Input-Related Spurs (Residual Spurs)......................................................40

Verifying LO-Related Spurs (Sideband Spurs) ................................................................43

Verifying Image Rejection................................................................................................ 48

Verifying Third-Order Intermodulation Distortion ..........................................................53

Frequencies ≤700 MHz.............................................................................................53

Frequencies >700 MHz............................................................................................. 57

Verifying Second Harmonic Intercept (SHI).................................................................... 62

Verifying Gain Compression ............................................................................................67

Frequencies ≤700 MHz............................................................................................. 68

Frequencies >700 MHz.............................................................................................73

Verifying LO Output Power ............................................................................................. 79

Reverification............................................................................................................................ 83

Appendix A: Anti-Distortion Test Fixture................................................................................ 83

Appendix B: Power Sensor Calibration Factor Uncertainty .....................................................84

Worldwide Support and Services ............................................................................................. 85

Software

Calibrating the PXIe-5665 requires you to install the following software on the calibration
system:

• NI-RFSA 2.5 or later

• NI Spectral Measurements Toolkit 2.5 or later

You can download all required software from

The software supports programming the calibration procedures in the LabVIEW, C, and
LabWindows™/CVI™ application development environments (ADEs). When you install the
software, you need to install support only for the ADE that you intend to use.

ni.com/downloads.

Documentation

You might find the following documents helpful as you perform the calibration procedure:

• NI 5665 RF Vector Signal Analyzer Getting Started Guide

• NI RF Vector Signal Analyzers Help

• PXIe-5665 Specifications

The latest versions of these documents are available at ni.com/manuals.

This calibration procedure calibrates the PXIe-5665 as a single system. To calibrate the
PXIe-5653 or PXIe-5622 individually, refer to their calibration procedures, available at

ni.com/manuals.

2 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Test Equipment

Table 1 lists the equipment NI recommends for the performance verification procedures. If the
recommended equipment is not available, select a substitute using the minimum requirements
listed in the table.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 3

4 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Equipment Recommended Models Where Used Minimum Requirements

Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5665 Calibration

Power meter Anritsu ML2438A Verifying frequency response,

Verifying absolute amplitude accuracy,

Verifying LO output power

Display resolution: ≤0.01 dB

Settling: ±0.1%

Instrumentation accuracy: <±0.5%

Noise, zero set, and drift: ≤±0.5% full-scale
(lowest range)

Reference power uncertainty: ≤±0.9%

Reference output VSWR: <1.04 : 1

Power sensors (2x) Anritsu SC7400 Verifying frequency response,

Verifying absolute amplitude accuracy,

Verifying LO output power

Power range: -55 dBm to 20 dBm

Frequency range: 10 MHz to 16 GHz

Input VSWR:

10 MHz to 150 MHz .......... ≤1.17 : 1

150MHz to 2GHz............. ≤1.08 : 1

2 GHz to 12.4 GHz............. ≤1.16 : 1

12.4 GHz to 18 GHz........... ≤1.21 : 1

Linearity:

-55 dBm to 20 dBm............ ≤1.8%

Calibration factor uncertainty: Refer to Appendix B:

Power Sensor Calibration Factor Uncertainty

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 5

Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5665 Calibration (Continued)

Equipment Recommended Models Where Used Minimum Requirements

Signal generator
(RF source 1)

Anritsu MG3692C

Options 2A, 3, 4, 15A, and 22

Verifying third-order intermodulation
distortion,

Verifying gain compression

Frequency range: 8 MHz to 16 GHz

Leveled power: -115 dBm to 18 dBm

Power accuracy: ±1.5 dB

Harmonics:

0.1 MHz to ≤10 MHz ......... <-30 dBc

>10 MHz to ≤100 MHz ...... <-40 dBc

>100 MHz to ≤2.2 GHz ..... <-50 dBc

>2.2 GHz to ≤16 GHz ........ <-30 dBc

Nonharmonic spurious:

0.1 MHz to ≤10 MHz ......... <-30 dBc

>10 MHz to ≤2.2 GHz ....... <-60 dBc

>2.2 GHz to ≤16 GHz ........ <-60 dBc

Output VSWR: <2.0 : 1

Signal generator
(RF source 2)

Anritsu MG3692C

Options 2A, 3, 4, 15A, and 22

Verifying frequency response,

Verifying absolute amplitude accuracy,

Verifying LO-related spurs,

Verifying image rejection,

Verifying third-order intermodulation
distortion,

Verifying second harmonic intercept,

Verifying gain compression,

Verifying LO output power

Frequency range: 0.1 Hz to 16 GHz

Leveled power: -115 dBm to 18 dBm

Power accuracy: ±1.5 dB

Harmonics:

0.1 MHz to ≤10 MHz ......... <-30 dBc

>10 MHz to ≤100 MHz ...... <-40 dBc

>100 MHz to ≤2.2 GHz ..... <-50 dBc

>2.2 GHz to ≤16 GHz ........ <-30 dBc

Nonharmonic spurious:

0.1 MHz to 10 MHz ........... <-30 dBc

10 MHz to ≤2.2 MH z......... <-60 dBc

>2.2 GHz to ≤16 GHz ........ <-60 dBc

Output VSWR: < 2.0 : 1

6 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Equipment Recommended Models Where Used Minimum Requirements

Spectrum analyzer Rohde & Schwarz FSUP26

Options B60 and B61

Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5665 Calibration (Continued)

Verifying frequency response,

Verifying phase noise,

Verifying LO-related spurs,

Verifying LO output power

Frequency range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz

Noise floor: <-152 dBm/Hz

Phase noise measurement using cross-correlation

Frequency counter marker feature

Spectrum analysis capabilities

50 Ω termination
(three are included
in the PXIe-5665
kit)

NI 778353-01 Verifying average noise level,

Verifying non-input-related (residual)
spurs

PXI Express chassis PXIe-1065 or PXIe-1075 — —

—

PXI Express
controller

SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) semi-rigid
cables (3x)

*

SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) semi-rigid

*

cable

SMA (m)-to­SMA (m)
semi-flexible cable

SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) flexible

*

cable

PXIe-8105 or PXIe-8133 — —

NI 151611A-01 — —

NI 151612A-01 — —

NI 190412B-04 — —

*

NI 151890A-1R25 — —

SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cables
(36 in.) (3x)

3.5 mm (m)-to-

3.5 mm (m) adaptor

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 7

3.5 mm (f)-to-

3.5 mm (f) adaptor

SMA (m)-to­SMA (f) 10 dB
attenuator

Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5665 Calibration (Continued)

Equipment Recommended Models Where Used Minimum Requirements

MegaPhase
G916-SISI-36

— Frequency range: DC to 18 GHz

Insertion loss: ≤2 dB at 18 GHz

Impedance: 50 Ω

VSWR: ≤1.35 : 1 at 18 GHz

Huber+Suhner
32_PC35-50-0-2/199_NE

— Frequency range: DC to 18 GHz

Impedance: 50 Ω

Return loss:

DC to 1.5 GHz.................... ≥35 dB

1.5 GHz to 6.0 GHz............ ≥30 dB

6.0 GHz to 18.0 GHz.......... ≥20 dB

Huber+Suhner
31_PC35-50-0-2/199_N

— Frequency range: DC to 18 GHz

Impedance: 50 Ω

Return loss:

DC to 1.5 GHz.................... ≥35 dB

1.5 GHz to 6.0 GHz............ ≥30 dB

6.0 GHz to 18.0 GHz.......... ≥20 dB

Huber+Suhner
6610_SMA-50-1/199N

— Frequency range: DC to 18 GHz

Attenuation: 10 dB (nominal)

Power rating: 2 W average

Impedance: 50 Ω

VSWR:

DC to 4 GHz....................... ≤1.15 : 1

4 GHz to 8 GHz.................. ≤1.20 : 1

8 GHz to 12.4 GHz............. ≤1.25 : 1

12.4 GHz to 18 GHz........... ≤1.35 : 1

8 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5665 Calibration (Continued)

Equipment Recommended Models Where Used Minimum Requirements

SMA (m)-to­SMA (f) 20 dB
attenuator

Huber+Suhner
6620_SMA-50-1/199N

— Frequency range: DC to 18 GHz

Attenuation: 20 dB (nominal)

Power rating: 2 W average

Impedance: 50 Ω

VSWR:

DC to 4 GHz....................... ≤1.15 : 1

4 GHz to 8 GHz.................. ≤1.20 : 1

8 GHz to 12. GHz............... ≤1.25 : 1

12.4 GHz to 18 GHz........... ≤1.35 : 1

Power splitter
(two-resistor type)

Anti-distortion test
fixture

Aeroflex/Weinschel 1593 — Frequency range: DC to 18 GHz

Amplitude tracking: <0.25 dB

Phase tracking: <4°

Insertion loss: ≤8.5 dB (6 dB, nominal)

Power rating: 1 W

Impedance: 50 Ω

VSWR:

DC to 18 GHz..................... ≤1.25 : 1

Equivalent output VSWR:

DC to 18 GHz..................... ≤1.25 : 1

Connectors: 3.5 mm (f)

NI 166375A-01 Verifying third-order intermodulation

distortion,

Verifying second harmonic intercept,

Verifying gain compression

Refer to Appendix A: Anti-Distortion Test Fixture for
specifications.

Note: The anti-distortion test fixture requires an external
+12 VDC supply and USB interface. Contact NI for
programming details.

Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5665 Calibration (Continued)

Equipment Recommended Models Where Used Minimum Requirements

Frequency reference
source

Symmetricom 8040
rubidium frequency standard

— Frequency: 10 MHz

Frequency accuracy: ±1 × 10

-9

Torque wrench — — Refer to Test Conditions for torque wrench specifications.

*

Included in the PXIe-5665 cable accessory kit.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 9

Test Conditions

The following setup and environmental conditions are required to ensure the PXIe-5665 meets
published specifications.

• Keep cabling as short as possible. Long cables and wires act as antennae, picking up extra
noise that can affect measurements.

• Verify that all connections, including front panel connections and screws, are secure.

• Maintain an ambient temperature of 23 °C ±5 °C.

• Keep the relative humidity between 10% and 90%, noncondensing.

• Allow a warm-up time of at least 30 minutes after NI-RFSA is loaded and recognizes the
PXIe-5665. The warm-up time ensures that the measurement circuitry of the PXIe-5665 is
at a stable operating temperature.

• Perform self-calibration on the PXIe-5665.

• Use a torque wrench appropriate for the type of RF connector that you are using.
NI recommends a 0.565 N · m (5 lb · in.) wrench for SMA connectors and a 0.90 N · m
(8 lb · in.) wrench for 3.5 mm connectors.

• Connect the frequency reference source to the REF IN connector on the back of the
PXI Express chassis with a standard BNC (m)-to-BNC (m) cable. This connection replaces
the connection from the PXIe-5653 REF OUT (10 MHz) connector to the PXI Express
chassis REF IN connector, if present.

• Lock all test equipment to the REF OUT signal on the back of the PXI Express chassis.
Refer to the NI 5665 Timing Configurations topic in the NI RF Vector Signal Analyzers
Help for more information about configuring clocking sources.

• Ensure that the PXI/PXI Express chassis fan speed is set to HIGH, that the fan filters, if present,
are clean, and that the empty slots contain filler panels. For more information, refer to the
Maintain Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users document available at

ni.com/manuals.

10 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

System Options

The PXIe-5665 is available with options without certain features. The calibration procedure
must be modified to handle the following options:

• No preamplifier: Skip steps in the verification procedures that call for the preamplifier to
be enabled.

• 25 MHz instantaneous bandwidth: Verification procedures include any changes necessary
to accommodate this option. There are no changes to the PXIe-5665 specifications for this
digitizer option.

Initial Setup

Refer to the NI PXIe-5665 RF Vector Signal Analyzer Getting Started Guide for information
about how to install the software and hardware and how to configure the device in Measurement
& Automation Explorer (MAX).

Characterizing the Test System

You use the measured response of the test system during verification tests.

The power splitter and attenuation response is measured at the RF input frequencies used in the
verification tests.

Caution The connectors on the device under test (DUT) and test equipment are

fragile. Perform the steps in these procedures with great care to prevent damaging any
DUTs or test equipment.

Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor

1. Connect channel A of the power meter to power sensor A.

2. Connect channel B of the power meter to power sensor B.

3. Zero and calibrate the power sensors using the built-in functions in the power meter.

Characterizing Power Splitter Reference Output

Designate either of the two outputs of the power splitter as the reference output. This output must
be consistently used as the reference output throughout the characterization and verification
procedures.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 11

Characterizing Power Splitter Difference

4

6

1

5

3

2

1. Connect the RF source 2 output to the power splitter input through the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable.

2. Connect power sensor A to the reference output of the power splitter through the
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.

3. Connect power sensor B to the other output of the power splitter through the
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable. The completed setup is shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Power Splitter Difference Characterization Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 2
2 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

3 Power Splitter
4 Power Sensor A

5 Power Sensor B
6 Power Meter

4. Set the RF source 2 frequency to 4 GHz.

5. Set the RF source 2 power to 0 dBm.

6. Measure the signal at 4 GHz with both power sensors.

7. Set the power sensors calibration factor for the measurement frequency at 4 GHz.

8. Calculate the Power Splitter at 4 GHz Correction Factor using the following formula:

Power Splitter at 4 GHz Correction Factor = Corrected Power Sensor B Power - Corrected

Power Sensor A Power

12 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Characterizing RF Source Power (Direct)

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor according

to the Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor section of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 2 output to the power sensor B input using the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable and 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) adaptor. The completed equipment setup is
shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2. RF Source 2 Output Power Characterization Equipment Setup

5

4

3

1

2

1 RF Source 2
2 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

3 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) Adaptor
4 Power Sensor B

5 Power Meter

2. Set the RF source 2 frequency according to the first row in Table 2 or Table 3 as
appropriate.

Table 2. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA RF Source 2 Characterization Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

100.033325 MHz 2.000033325 GHz 100 MHz

2.099966675 GHz 3.599966675 GHz 100 MHz

9.325033325 GHz 11.225033325 GHz 100 MHz

11.324966675 GHz 12.824966675 GHz 100 MHz

1.325033325 GHz 3.225033325 GHz 100 MHz

3.324966675 GHz 4.824966675 GHz 100 MHz

74.966675 MHz 274.966675 MHz 100 MHz

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 13

Table 2. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA RF Source 2 Characterization Frequencies (Continued)

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

25.033325 MHz 1.625033325 GHz 100 MHz

1.724966675 GHz 3.224966675 GHz 100 MHz

3.3875 GHz — —

987.5 MHz — —

Table 3. PXIe-5665 14GHz VSA RF Source 2 Characterization Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

100.033325 MHz 1.975033325 GHz 125 MHz

2.099966675 GHz 3.599966675 GHz 125 MHz

3.724966675 GHz 13.974966675 GHz 125 MHz

13.999966675 GHz — —

9.325033325 GHz 11.200033325 GHz 125 MHz

11.324966675 GHz 12.824966675 GHz 125 MHz

4.949966675 GHz 15.199966675 GHz 125 MHz

15.224966675 GHz — —

1.325033325 GHz 3.200033325 GHz 125 MHz

3.324966675 GHz 4.824966675 GHz 125 MHz

3.349966675 GHz 13.599966675 GHz 125 MHz

13.624966675 GHz — —

24.966675 MHz 274.966675 MHz 125 MHz

1.724966675 GHz 3.224966675 GHz 125 MHz

3.3875 GHz — —

987.5 MHz — —

3. Set the RF source 2 power to 0 dBm.

4. Measure the Channel B Power using the appropriate calibration factor for the power sensor
frequency. Calculate the RF Source Power Direct using the following equation:

RF Source Power Direct = -Channel B Power

5. Repeat steps 2 to 4 for all remaining frequencies in Table 2 or Table 3.

14 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Characterizing RF Source Power (with Lowpass Filter)

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor according

to the Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor section of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 2 output to power sensor B through the anti-distortion test fixture.
The completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3. RF Source Power (with Lowpass Filter) Characterization Equipment Setup

5

6

1

3

2

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture

2. Disable the RF source 1 output.

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

RF

INPUT 1

166375A

RF

INPUT 2

6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
7 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) Adaptor
8 Power Sensor B

RF

OUTPUT

4

9

9 Power Meter

7

8

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 15

3. Set the RF source 2 frequency and power according to the first row in Table 4.

Table 4. RF Source 2 Settings

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size Power (dBm)

300 MHz 1.8 GHz 10 MHz 0

1.9 GHz 7.0 GHz 100 MHz 0

300.0333125 MHz 1790.0333125 MHz 10 MHz -30

1.8 GHz — — -30

4. Configure the anti-distortion test fixture to use the appropriate lowpass filter path according
to Table 5.

Table 5. Lowpass Filter Frequency Ranges

Lowpass Filter Path (MHz) Frequency Range

470 1 MHz to 470 MHz

735 >470 MHz to 735 MHz

1,150 >735 MHz to 1.150 GHz

1,800 >1.150 GHz to 1.800 GHz

5. Enable the RF source 2 output.

6. Measure the channel B power using the appropriate calibration factor for the power sensor
frequency. Adjust the RF source 2 power until this measured power is within ±0.1 dB of the
value listed in Table 4. The final RF source 2 power setting is the RF Source Power LPF
for that frequency.

7. Repeat steps 3 to 6 for all the frequencies and powers in Table 4.

16 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Characterizing RF Source Power (Combined) for Frequencies ≤700 MHz

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor according

to the Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor section of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs to power sensor B through the
anti-distortion test fixture. The completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4. RF Source Power (Combined) Characterization Equipment Setup

(Frequencies ≤700 MHz)

5

6

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

INPUT 1

166375A

RF

RF

INPUT 2

OUTPUT

RF

1

3

4

9

2

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture

6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
7 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) Adaptor
8 Power Sensor B
9 Power Meter

2. Set the anti-distortion test fixture to the ≤700 MHz combiner path.

7

8

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 17

3. Set the RF source 1 and RF source 2 frequency and power values according to the first row
in Table 6.

Table 6. RF Source Power (Combined) Test Settings (Frequencies ≤700 MHz)

Start

Frequency

(MHz)

12.05 92.05 10 +350 kHz -10 -350 kHz -10

100 700 100 +350 kHz -10 -350 kHz -10

12.05 92.05 10 +350 kHz -30 -350 kHz -30

100 700 100 +350 kHz -30 -350 kHz -30

10 100 10 +1 MHz +9.1 0Hz -24

10 100 10 +1 MHz -16 0Hz -54

200 700 100 +1 MHz +9.1 0Hz -24

200 700 100 +1 MHz -13 0Hz -54

10 100 10 +1 MHz +8 0Hz -24

200 700 100 +1 MHz +8 0Hz -24

10 100 10 +1 MHz -18 0Hz -54

200 700 100 +1 MHz -15 0Hz -54

Stop

Frequency

(MHz)

Step Size

(MHz)

RF Source 1 RF Source 2

Frequency

Offset

Power
(dBm)

Frequency

Offset

4. Disable the RF source 1 output, and enable the RF source 2 output.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 output signal should be less than -60 dBm.

Power
(dBm)

5. Measure the channel B power using the appropriate sensor calibration factor for the
RF source 2 frequency.

6. Repeat step 5, adjusting the RF source 2 power until the channel B reading is within
±0.1 dB of the power listed in Table 6. The RF source 2 power is the
RF Source 2 Programmed Power.

7. Disable the RF source 2 output, and enable the RF source 1 output.

Note When disabled, the RF source 2 output signal should be less than - 60 dBm.

8. Measure the channel B power using the appropriate sensor calibration factor for the
RF source 1 frequency.

9. Repeat step 8, adjusting the RF source 1 power until the channel B power is within ±0.1 dB
of the power listed in Table 6. The RF source 1 power is the RF Source 1
Programmed Power.

10. Repeat steps 3 to 9 for all remaining frequency and power values in Table 6.

18 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Characterizing RF Source Power (Combined) for Frequencies >700 MHz

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor according

to the Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor section of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs to power sensor B through the
anti-distortion test fixture. The completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5. RF Source Power (Combined) Characterization Equipment Setup

(Frequencies >700 MHz)

5

6

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

INPUT 1

166375A

RF

RF

INPUT 2

OUTPUT

RF

1

3

4

9

2

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
7 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) Adaptor
8 Power Sensor B
9 Power Meter

5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture

2. Set the anti-distortion test fixture to the >700 MHz combiner path.

7

8

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 19

3. Set the RF source 1 and RF source 2 frequency and power values according to the first row
in Table 7.

Table 7. PXIe-5665 RF Source Power (Combined) Test Settings (Frequencies

>700 MHz)

RF Source 1 RF Source 2

Start

Frequency

800 MHz 3.500 GHz 100 +350 kHz -10 -350 kHz -10

3598.95 MHz — — +350 kHz -10 -350 kHz -10

3.6 GHz 13.8 GHz 200 +350 kHz -10 -350 kHz -10

13.99895 GHz — — +350 kHz -10 -350 kHz -10

800 MHz 3.500 GHz 100 +350 kHz -30 -350 kHz -30

3598.95 MHz — — +350 kHz -30 -350 kHz -30

3.6 GHz — — +350 kHz -30 -350 kHz -30

800 MHz 1.700 GHz 100 +1 MHz +9.1 0Hz -24

800 MHz 1.700 GHz 100 +1 MHz +8 0Hz -24

800 MHz 1.700 GHz 100 +1 MHz -13 0Hz -54

800 MHz 1.700 GHz 100 +1 MHz -15 0Hz -54

Stop

Frequency

Step Size

(MHz)

Frequency

Offset

Power
(dBm)

Frequency

Offset

Powe r
(dBm)

1.800 GHz 14.000 GHz 100 +1 MHz +7.1 0Hz -24

1.800 GHz 14.000 GHz 100 +1 MHz +6 0Hz -24

1.800 GHz 3.600 GHz 100 +1 MHz -16 0Hz -54

1.800 GHz 3.600 GHz 100 +1 MHz -18 0Hz -54

20 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

4. Disable the RF source 1 output, and enable the RF source 2 output.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 output signal should be less than -60 dBm.

5. Measure the channel B power using the appropriate sensor calibration factor for the
RF source 2 frequency.

6. Repeat step 5, adjusting the RF source 2 power until the channel B reading is within
±0.1 dB of the power in Table 7. The RF source 2 power is the RF Source 2 Programmed
Power.

7. Disable the RF source 2 output, and enable the RF source 1 output.

Note When disabled, the RF source 2 output signal should be less than -60 dBm.

8. Measure the channel B power using the appropriate sensor calibration factor for the
RF source 1 frequency.

9. Repeat step 8, adjusting the RF source 1 power until the channel B power is within ±0.1 dB
of the power in Table 7. The RF source 1 power is the RF Source 1 Programmed Power.

10. Repeat steps 3 to 9 for all remaining frequency and power values listed in Table 7.

Characterizing RF Source Power (Through Splitter)

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor and define

the power splitter reference output using the procedures in the Zeroing and

Calibrating the Power Sensor and Characterizing Power Splitter Reference Output

sections of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 2 output to the power splitter input through the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable.

2. Connect a 50 Ω termination load to the reference output of the power splitter.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 21

3. Connect power sensor B to the other output of the power splitter through the

1

3

5 6 7

8

2

4

3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) adaptors and the 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) adaptor. The
completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6. RF Source Power (Through Splitter) Characterization Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 2
2 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
350Ω Termination Load
4 Power Splitter

22 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

5 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adaptor
6 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) Adaptor
7 Power Sensor B
8Power Meter

4. Set the RF source 2 power to -10 dBm.

5. Set the RF source 2 frequency according to the first row in Table 8.

Table 8. RF Source 2 Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

100 MHz 3.5 GHz 200 MHz

3.6 GHz — —

3.7 GHz 14 GHz 100 MHz

6. Measure the Channel B Power using the appropriate calibration factor for the RF source 2
frequency. Adjust the RF source 2 power until this measured power is within ±0.1 dB of

-10 dBm.

7. Store the RF source 2 set power as the RF Source Power through Splitter.

8. Repeat steps 5 to 7 for all remaining frequencies in Table 8.

Characterizing RF Source Power (with Splitter and Attenuator)

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor and define

the power splitter reference output using the procedures in the Zeroing and

Calibrating the Power Sensor and Characterizing Power Splitter Reference Output

sections of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 2 output to the power splitter input through the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable.

2. Connect power sensor A to the reference output of the power splitter.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 23

3. Connect power sensor B to the other output of the power splitter through the 3.5 mm (m)-

3

5

7

6

8

4

1

9

2

to-3.5 mm (m) adaptor, the 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) adaptor, and the 20 dB attenuator. The
completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 7.

Figure 7. RF Source Power (with Splitter and Attenuator) Characterization

Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 2
2 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
3 Power Sensor A
4 Power Splitter
5 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adaptor

4. Set the RF source 2 power to 0 dBm.

24 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

6 20 dB Attenuator
7 3.5 mm (f)-to-3.5 mm (f) Adaptor
8 Power Sensor B
9 Power Meter

5. Set the RF source 2 frequency according to the first row in Table 9.

Table 9. RF Source 2 Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

10 MHz 100 MHz 10 MHz

200 MHz 600 MHz 100 MHz

612.5 MHz — —

700 MHz 3.6 GHz 100 MHz

3.8 GHz 14 GHz 200 MHz

6. Measure the Channel A Power and the Channel B Power using each sensor and the
appropriate calibration factor for the RF source 2 frequency.

7. Calculate the DUT to Power Meter through Attenuator Path Loss and RF Source to

DUT through Attenuator Path Loss for that frequency using the following formulas:

DUT to Power Meter through Attenuator Path Loss =

Channel A Power - Channel B Power

RF Source to DUT through Attenuator Path Loss = -Channel B Power

8. Repeat steps 5 to 7 for all remaining frequencies in Table 9.

Characterizing Spectrum Analyzer Response

1. Connect the RF source 2 output to the power splitter input through the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable.

2. Connect power sensor A to the power splitter reference output through the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 25

3. Connect the spectrum analyzer to the other power splitter output through the
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable. The completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 8.

Figure 8. Spectrum Analyzer Response Characterization Equipment Setup

7

8

1

1 RF Source 2
2 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
3 Power Splitter

4

4 Power Sensor A
5 10 dB Attenuator
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

3 65

2

7 Spectrum Analyzer
8 Power Meter

4. Set the RF source 2 power to 0 dBm.

5. Set the RF source 2 frequency to 4 GHz.

6. Configure the spectrum analyzer according to the following settings:

• Resolution bandwidth: 1 kHz

• Center frequency: 4 GHz

• Frequency span: 0 Hz

• Reference level: 0 dBm

7. Measure the power sensor A power.

8. Correct the power sensor A measured power for the measurement frequency of 4 GHz.

9. Correct the power sensor A measured power for the Power Splitter at 4 GHz Correction
Factor from the Characterizing Power Splitter Difference equipment characterization
section of this document using the following equation:

Corrected Power Sensor Power = Power Sensor A reading + Power Splitter at 4 GHz

Correction Factor

26 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

10. Measure the spectrum analyzer peak power.

11. Calculate the Spectrum Analyzer Correction Factor using the following formula:

Spectrum Analyzer Correction Factor =

Corrected Power Sensor Power - Spectrum Analyzer Power

As-Found and As-Left Limits

The as-found limits are the published specifications for the PXIe-5665. NI uses these limits to
determine whether the PXIe-5665 meets the device specifications when it is received for
calibration.

The as-left limits are equal to the published NI specifications for the PXIe-5665, less guard
bands for manufacturing test measurement uncertainty, temperature drift, and drift over time. NI
uses these limits to determine whether the PXIe-5665 meets the device specifications over its
calibration interval.

Verification

The performance verification procedures assume that adequate traceable uncertainties are
available for the calibration references.

In the event of a failure during the verification of the PXIe-5665, perform a calibration of the
individual modules. Return the PXIe-5603 or PXIe-5605 module to NI for calibration and
adjustment, if needed.

Verifying Reference Accuracy

The PXIe-5665 reference accuracy specification is derived from the PXIe-5653 reference
accuracy. For more information about PXIe-5653 calibration values, refer to the NI PXIe-5653
Calibration Procedure available at

ni.com/manuals.

Verifying Phase Noise

The phase noise for the PXIe-5665 system is determined by the phase noise of the PXIe-5653
module. To verify the PXIe-5653 phase noise specification, you must use the phase noise
verification test for the PXIe-5653. For more information about calibration and verification of
the PXIe-5653, refer to the NI PXIe-5653 Calibration Procedure, available at

ni.com/manuals.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 27

Verifying Frequency Response and Absolute Amplitude

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX
25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

1

765

4

2

3

Accuracy

Verifying Frequency Response and Absolute Amplitude Accuracy for Frequencies >10 MHz

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor according

to the Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor section of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 2 to the power splitter input using the SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.

2. Connect the power splitter reference output to power sensor A.

3. Connect the other power splitter output to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector using the

3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) adaptor and 20 dB attenuator. The completed equipment setup
is shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10.

Figure 9. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Frequency Response and Absolute Amplitude Accuracy

Verification (Frequencies >10 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 2
2 Power Meter
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
4 Power Sensor A

28 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

5 Power Splitter
6 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adaptor
7 20 dB Attenuator

Figure 10. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Frequency Response and Absolute Amplitude

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+
22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

1

4

2

3

7

6

5

Accuracy Verification (Frequencies >10 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 2
2 Power Meter
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
4 Power Sensor A

5 Power Splitter
6 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adaptor
7 20 dB Attenuator

4. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

5. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following fixed property settings. These settings
remain unchanged during the test.

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: RMS Averaging

• Number of Averages: 10

• Digital IF Equalization Enabled: TRUE

• Digitizer Dither Enabled: Enabled

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Span: 100 kHz

• Resolution Bandwidth: 10 kHz

6. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following variable property settings:

• Preamp Enabled: Disabled

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 300 kHz

•

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Preselector Enabled: Disabled

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 29

7. Set the PXIe-5665 reference level using the following values:

• Start power: -50 dBm

• Stop power: -10 dBm

8. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency and the RF source 2 frequency according to the first
row in Table 10.

Table 10. Frequency Response and Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification

(Frequencies >10 MHz) Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

*

10 MHz

100 MHz 30 MHz

200 MHz 600 MHz 200 MHz

612.5 MHz — —

800 MHz 3.6 GHz 400 MHz

4 GHz 14 GHz 500 MHz

*

The 10 MHz to 100 MHz frequency range applied only to the 300 kHz device instantaneous

bandwidth value.

9. Set the RF source 2 amplitude for that RF source 2 frequency using the following equation:

RF Source 2 Amplitude = PXIe-5665 Reference Level +

RF Source to DUT through Attenuator Path Loss

10. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

11. Take five readings of the RF source 2 amplitude using power sensor A. Calculate the
average power.

12. Repeat step 11 until any two readings measured differ no more than 0.02 dB and no
two averages differ by more than 0.005 dB. This average is the Measured Average Power.

Note More than 30 averages total indicate a test failure that you must diagnose.

13. Calculate the Corrected Input Power using the following formula:

Corrected Input Power = Measured Average Power -

DUT to Power Meter through Attenuator Path Loss

Note The RF Source to DUT through Attenuator Path and DUT to Power Meter

through Attenuator Path Loss values were measured in the Characterizing RF

Source Power (with Splitter and Attenuator) equipment characterization procedure.

Use the values that correspond to the frequency range you are testing.

14. Read the PXIe-5665 power spectrum. The PXIe-5665 Power is the peak value of that
spectrum.

30 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

15. Calculate the Absolute Amplitude Accuracy at each RF frequency using the following
formula:

Absolute Amplitude Accuracy = PXIe-5665 Power - Corrected Input Power

16. Repeat steps 8 to 15 for all remaining frequencies in Table 10.

17. Calculate the Frequency Response at each RF frequency using the following formula:

Frequency Response = Absolute Amplitude Accuracy -

Absolute Amplitude Accuracy at 612.5 MHz

Note Calculate Frequency Response only for PXIe-5665 center frequencies less

than or equal to 3.6 GHz.

18. Repeat steps 9 to 17 for all reference levels listed in step 7.

19. Repeat steps 8 to 18 for an instantaneous bandwidth of 50 MHz (25 MHz for the
PXIe-5665 with 25 MHz bandwidth).

20. Repeat steps 8 to 19 with the PXIe-5665 preamplifier enabled.

21.

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Repeat steps 8 to 19 for test frequencies greater than 3.6 GHz

with the PXIe-5665 preselector enabled and preamplifier disabled.

Note The PXIe-5665 preselector has a maximum instantaneous bandwidth of

47 MHz. For steps that call for a 50 MHz instantaneous bandwidth, use a 40 MHz
instantaneous bandwidth when using the preselector.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 31

22. Compare the Frequency Response to the verification test limits in Table 11 or Table 12 as
appropriate.

Table 11. Frequency Response Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Disabled)

Frequency Device

As-Found Limit

(dB)

As-Left Limit

*

(dB)

10 MHz to 100 MHz PXIe-5665 ±0.60 ±0.35

>100 MHz to 1.7 GHz ±0.35 ±0.25

>1.7 GHz to 2.8 GHz PXIe-5665

±0.40 ±0.30

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

±0.42

14 GHz VSA

>2.8 GHz to 3.6 GHz PXIe-5665

±0.45 ±0.35

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

±0.62

14 GHz VSA

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

Table 12. Frequency Response Verification Test Limits

(Preamplifier Enabled)

Frequency Device

10 MHz to

PXIe-5665 ±0.75 ±0.50

As-Found Limit

(dB)

As-Left Limit

*

(dB)

100 MHz

>100 MHz to

±0.45 ±0.30

2.8 GHz

>2.8 GHz to

3.6 GHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

±0.45 ±0.30

±0.50 ±0.45

14 GHz VSA

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

32 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

23. Compare the Absolute Amplitude Accuracy to the verification test limits in Table 13,
Table 14, or Table 15 as appropriate.

Table 13. Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification Test Limits

(Preamplifier Disabled, PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Preselector Disabled)

Frequency Device

612.5 MHz PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

10 MHz to

100 MHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

>100 MHz to

1.7 GHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

>1.7 GHz to

2.8 GHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

>2.8 GHz to

3.6 GHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

As-Found Limit

(dB)

±0.35 ±0.25

±0.46 ±0.38

±0.95 ±0.60

±1.06 ±0.73

±0.70 ±0.50

±0.81 ±0.63

±0.75 ±0.55

±0.88 ±0.68

±0.80 ±0.60

±1.08 ±0.73

As-Left Limit

(dB)

*

>3.6 GHz to

7.5 GHz

>7.5 GHz to

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

±0.70 ±0.50

±0.80 ±0.50

8.5 GHz

>8.5 GHz to

±1.25 ±0.75

14 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 33

Table 14. Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Enabled)

Frequency Device

612.5 MHz PXIe-5665

As-Found Limit

(dB)

±0.35 ±0.30

As-Left Limit

(dB)

*

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

±0.70 ±0.60

14 GHz VSA

10 MHz to

100 MHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

±1.10 ±0.80

±1.45

14 GHz VSA

>100 MHz to

2.8 GHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

±0.80 ±0.60

±1.15

14 GHz VSA

>2.8 GHz to

3.6 GHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

±0.80 ±0.60

±1.20 ±0.75

14 GHz VSA

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

Table 15. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Verification Test Limits

(Preamplifier Disabled, PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Preselector Enabled)

Frequency As-Found Limit (dB) As-Left Limit (dB)

*

>3.6 GHz to 7.5 GHz ±4.0 ±1.5

>7.5 GHz to 8.5 GHz ±4.0 ±1.5

>8.5 GHz to 14 GHz ±4.0 ±1.5

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

24. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the frequency response and absolute amplitude accuracy verification procedures determines
that the PXIe-5665 is outside its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information
about support resources or service requests.

34 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Verifying Average Noise Level

1. Connect a 50 Ω termination to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector. The completed equipment
setup is shown in Figure 11 and Figure 12.

Figure 11. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Average Noise Level Verification Equipment Setup

1

150Ω termination

NI PXIe-562 2

16-Bit IF Digitizer

ACCESS ACTIVE

IF IN

K

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

PFI 1

CLK IN

6.3 Vp-p

CLK OUT

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO3

TTL

MAX

50 Ω

LO2

2 Vp-p
NOM

50 Ω

LO1

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

OUT

+

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

ESD
SENSITIVE

ALL PORTS

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

IN

J

J

J

50 Ω

800 MHz

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

OUT

LO3

J

LO2

4 GHz

J

LO1

J

OUT

ESD
SENSITIVE

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 35

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-562 2

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

1

J

J

J

J

J

J

Figure 12. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Average Noise Level Verification Equipment Setup

150Ω termination

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: RMS Averages

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Digital IF Equalization Enabled: TRUE

• Digitizer Dither Enabled: Enabled

• Number of Averages: 20

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Power Spectrum Units: Volts Squared

• Preamp Enabled: Disabled

• Resolution Bandwidth Type: ENBW

• Reference Level: -50 dBm

• Resolution Bandwidth: 300 Hz

• RF Attenuation: 0 dB

• FFT Window Type: Blackman-Harris

•

36 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Preselector Enabled: Disabled

4. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency according to Table 16.

Table 16. Average Noise Level Verification Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size (MHz)

10 MHz 90 MHz 20

100 MHz 3.6 GHz 500

4 GHz 14 GHz 500

5. Set the PXIe-5665 channel coupling, RF attenuation, device instantaneous bandwidth,
span, resolution bandwidth, sampling ratio, and number of averages according to Table 17.

Table 17. PXIe-5665 Settings for Average Noise Level Verification

Test Frequency

Device Instantaneous

Bandwidth

Span

OSP Sampling

Ratio

10 MHz to <100 MHz 300 kHz 100 kHz 32

100 MHz to ≤3.6 GHz 300 kHz 100 kHz 32

*

50 MHz

3.8 GHz to 14 GHz 50 MHz

*

Set the PXIe-5665 Device Instantaneous Bandwidth to 25 MHz for the PXIe-5665 with

*

5MHz 1

5 MHz 1

25 MHz bandwidth.

6. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

7. Read the power spectrum from the PXIe-5665. Convert the power spectrum to a power
spectral density (dBm/Hz) value.

8. Remove five points from around the center of the power spectral density from step 7.

9. Convert the power spectral density with the points removed to watts/Hz, take the mean, and
then convert the result back to dBm/Hz. This value is the PXIe-5665 Average Noise
(dBm/Hz).

10. Repeat steps 4 to 9 for all frequencies in Table 16.

11. Repeat steps 4 to 10 for frequencies less than or equal to 3.6 GHz with the PXIe-5665
preamplifier enabled.

12.

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Repeat steps 4 to 10 for frequencies greater than 3.6 GHz with

the PXIe-5665 preselector enabled and preamplifier disabled.

Note The PXIe-5665 preselector has a maximum instantaneous bandwidth of

47 MHz. For steps that call for a 50 MHz instantaneous bandwidth, use a 40 MHz
instantaneous bandwidth when using the preselector.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 37

13. Compare the PXIe-5665 Average Noise (dBm/Hz) to the verification test limits in Table 18,
Table 19, or Table 20 as appropriate.

Table 18. Average Noise Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Disabled, PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA Preselector Disabled)

*

Frequency

As-Found Limit

(dBm/Hz)

As-Left Limit

(dBm/Hz)

>10 MHz to 100 MHz -149 -151

>100 MHz to 300 MHz -152 -154

>300 MHz to 1.7 GHz -151 -153

>1.7 GHz to 2.8 GHz -149 -151

>2.8 GHz to 3.6 GHz -148 -150

>3.6 GHz to 7.5 GHz

>7.5 GHz to 8.5 GHz

>8.5 GHz to 12 GHz

>12 GHz to 14 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

†

†

†

†

-148 -150

-146 -147

-147 -148

-145 -146

about as-left limits.

†

Frequencies >3.6 GHz apply only to the PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA.

Table 19. Average Noise Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Enabled)

*

Frequency

As-Found Limit

(dBm/Hz)

As-Left Limit

(dBm/Hz)

>10 MHz to 100 MHz -161 -163

>100 MHz to 300 MHz -162 -165

>300 MHz to 1.7 GHz -162 -164

>1.7 GHz to 2.8 GHz -161 -163

>2.8 GHz to 3.6 GHz -160 -163

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

38 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Table 20. Average Noise Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Disabled, PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA Preselector Enabled)

*

Frequency

As-Found Limit

(dBm/Hz)

As-Left Limit

(dBm/Hz)

>3.6 GHz to 7.5 GHz -144 -145

>7.5 GHz to 8.5 GHz -140 -141

>8.5 GHz to 12 GHz -141 -142

>12 GHz to 14 GHz -140 -141

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

14. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the average noise level verification procedure determines that the PXIe-5665 is outside its
limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about support resources or
service requests.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 39

Verifying Non-Input-Related Spurs (Residual Spurs)

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-562 2

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX
25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

1

1. Connect a 50 Ω termination to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector. The completed equipment
setup is shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14.

Figure 13. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Non-Input-Related Spurs Verification

Equipment Setup

150Ω Termination

40 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-562 2

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

1

Figure 14. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Non-Input-Related Spurs Verification

Equipment Setup

150Ω Termination

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: RMS Averaging

• Number of Averages: 4

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Ref Clock Rate: 10 MHz

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 41

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Preamp Enabled: Disabled

• Span: 50 MHz (25 MHz for the PXIe-5665 with 25 MHz bandwidth)

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 50 MHz (25 MHz for the PXIe-5665 with 25 MHz
bandwidth)

• Resolution Bandwidth: 2 kHz

• RF Attenuation: 0 dB

• Reference Level: -60 dBm

• FFT Window Type: Flat Top

•

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Preselector Enabled: Disabled

4. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency using the following values:

• Start frequency: 100 MHz

• Stop frequency:

–

(PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA) 3.6 GHz

– (PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) 14 GHz

• Step size: 9.997331 MHz

5. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

6. Read the power spectrum from the PXIe-5665.

7. Measure the highest power in the spectrum returned from the PXIe-5665. This value is the
PXIe-5665 Non-Input-Related Spurious Level.

8. Repeat steps 4 to 7 for all frequencies in step 4.

9. Compare the PXIe-5665 Non-Input-Related Spurious Level to the verification test limits in
Table 21.

Table 21. Non-Input-Related Spurs Verification Test Limits

Center Frequency As-Found Limit (dBm) As-Left Limit (dBm)

*

100 MHz to <1.650 GHz -95 -96

1.650 GHz to 1.750 GHz -85 -88

>1.750 GHz to 3.6 GHz -95 -96

>3.6 GHz to 7.5 GHz

>7.5 GHz to 8.5 GHz

>8.5 GHz to 14 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

†

†

†

-92 -94

-90 -92

-90 -92

about as-left limits.

†

Center frequencies >3.6 GHz apply only to the PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA.

10. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the non-input-related spurs (residual spurs) verification procedure determines that the
PXIe-5665 is outside its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about
support resources or service requests.

42 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Verifying LO-Related Spurs (Sideband Spurs)

1. Connect RF source 2 to the power splitter input through the SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.

2. Connect the power splitter reference output to the spectrum analyzer through the
SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable.

3. Connect the other power splitter output to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector using the

3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) adaptor. The completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 15
and Figure 16.

Figure 15. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA LO-Related Spurs Verification Equipment Setup

2

4

5

6

1

1 RF Source 2
2 Spectrum Analyzer
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

IF IN

50 Ω

PFI 1

K

ACCESS

ACTIVE

+

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

50 Ω

2 Vp-p

NOM

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

ACTIVE

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

IF OUT

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

+

ESD
SENSITIVE

ALL PORTS

15 dBm MAX
25 V DC MAX

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

IN

J

J

J

50 Ω

RF IN

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

ACCESS

+

20 dBm MAX

3

CLK OUT

ESD
SENSITIVE

CLK IN

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
5 Power Splitter
6 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adaptor

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

OUT

LO3

800 MHz

J

LO2

4 GHz

J

LO1

J

OUT

ESD
SENSITIVE

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 43

Figure 16. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA LO-Related Spurs Verification Equipment Setup

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

2

4

5

6

1

1 RF Source 2
2 Spectrum Analyzer
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

4. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

ACCESS ACTIVE

ACCESS

IF IN

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

+

PFI 1

TTL

CLK IN

6.3 Vp-p

3

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
5 Power Splitter
6 3.5 mm (m)-to-3.5 mm (m) Adaptor

CLK OUT

MAX

50 Ω

2 Vp-p
NOM

50 Ω

ESD
SENSITIVE

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

IF OUT

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ESD
SENSITIVE

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

OUT

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

OUT

ESD
SENSITIVE

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

44 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

5. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following fixed property settings. These settings
remain unchanged during the test.

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: RMS Averaging

• Number of Averages: 10

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Ref Clock Rate: 10 MHz

• Preamp Enabled: Disabled

• Reference Level: -10 dBm

• FFT Window Type: Flat Top

• Resolution Bandwidth Type: Bin Width

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 50 MHz (25 MHz for the PXIe-5665 with the

25 MHz bandwidth)

•

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Preselector Enabled: Disabled

6. Set the RF source 2 mode to Single Frequency.

7. Connect the frequency reference source to the spectrum analyzer reference frequency input.

8. Set the spectrum analyzer reference source to External.

Note If the RF source you use for this test has consistent, known offset spurs, these

spurs can be characterized independently of the LO-related spurs. You can ignore
these offset frequencies to save time during testing.

9. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency according to the first row in either Table 22 or
Table 23.

Table 22. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

100 MHz 3.5 GHz 200 MHz

3.6 GHz — —

Table 23. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

100 MHz 13.9 GHz 200 MHz

14 GHz — —

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 45

10. Configure the RF Source 2 according to the following settings:

• Center frequency: PXIe-5665 center frequency

• Output power: RF Source Power through Splitter for that frequency

11. Set the spectrum analyzer center frequency to the RF source 2 frequency.

12. Set the PXIe-5665 span and resolution bandwidth according to the first row in Table 24.

Table 24. LO-Related Spurs Verification Bandwidth and Span Settings

PXIe-5665

Span

200 kHz 10 Hz 20 kHz (1999) 600 Hz 50 Hz 6

2MHz 40 Hz 200 kHz (4999) 300 Hz 50 Hz 3

20 MHz 60 Hz 2 MHz (33333) 300 Hz 50 Hz 3

PXIe-5665

RBW

PXIe-5665 Notch BW

(Number of Bins at

Stated RBW)

Spectrum

Analyzer

Span

Spectrum

Analyzer

RBW

Spectrum

Analyzer

Averages

13. Set the spectrum analyzer span, resolution bandwidth, and number of averages according
to the values in Table 24.

14. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

15. Wait 250 ms before making the first measurement and wait 100 ms before making a
subsequent measurements to allow the PXIe-5665 and RF source 2 amplitudes to settle.

Note Settling times are a characteristic of the RF source device. Refer to the Test

Equipment section of this document for a list of NI-recommended source devices and

device specifications. If you use an RF source device with different device
specifications, your settling times may differ from those listed in this procedure.

16. Measure the RF source 2 spectrum with the spectrum analyzer.

17. Perform a peak search on the spectrum from step 16. The value of the peak is the Spectrum
Analyzer Tone Power. This value is used in step 19(c).

46 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

18. Measure the spectrum on the PXIe-5665.

a. Find the peak value of the spectrum.

b. Confirm that the peak value is between -16 dBm and -4 dBm. The peak value is the

PXIe-5665 Tone Power. This value is used in step 18(d).

c. Notch filter the spectrum by replacing the appropriate number of bins from the center

of the spectrum according to Table 24 with bins of -130 dB in value. The resulting
spectrum is the Notched Spectrum.

d. Calculate the Notched Spectrum Response using the following equation:

Notched Spectrum Response (dB) = Notched Spectrum (dBm) - PXIe-5665 Tone Power (dBm)

e. Create a list of target spurs from the Notched Spectrum Response (dB) that have a

level greater than -90 dB.

f. If any two spurs are within ±500 Hz of each other, retain only the spur with the greater

power magnitude. This reduced list is used in step 19(a).

Note The RF source 2 indicated for use in this procedure exhibits spurious

responses that have a frequency spread of 500 Hz. Any target spur found within
±500 Hz of an RF source 2 spurious response is considered to be from the
RF source 2 because of this frequency spread.

19. Eliminate any RF source 2 spurious responses from the list of target spurs.

a. Tune the spectrum analyzer to the frequency of each target spur in the reduced list

from step 18(f).

b. Measure the spectrum and perform a peak search on the measured spectrum. This

value is the Spectrum Analyzer Peak Value.

c. Convert the Spectrum Analyzer Peak Value units to dB using the following equation:

Spectrum Analyzer Peak (dB) = Spectrum Analyzer Peak Value (dBm) -

Spectrum Analyzer Tone Power

d. If the value of the Spectrum Analyzer Peak (dB) is 5 dB or more below the spur level

in the reduced list from step 18(f), retain the spur level, otherwise discard the value.

20. Compare the spur values from the sorted list in step 19(d) to the verification test limits in
Table 25.

Table 25. LO-Related Spurious Responses (Sideband Spurs)

Verification Test Limits

Center Frequency As-Found Limit (dBc) As-Left Limit (dBc)

*

100 MHz to 3.6 GHz -73 -75

3.6 GHz to 14 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

†

-73 -75

about as-left limits.

†

Center frequencies >3.6 GHz apply only to the PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 47

21. Repeat steps 11 to 19 for all spans in Table 24.

22. Repeat steps 9 to 20 for all center frequencies in Table 22.

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Repeat steps 9 to 20 for center frequencies from 3.8 GHz to

23.
14 GHz in 200 MHz steps with the PXIe-5665 preselector enabled.

Note The PXIe-5665 preselector has a maximum instantaneous bandwidth of

47 MHz. For steps that call for a 50 MHz instantaneous bandwidth, use a 40 MHz
instantaneous bandwidth when using the preselector.

24. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the LO-related spurs (sideband spurs) verification procedure determines that the PXIe-5665 is
outside its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about support
resources or service requests.

Verifying Image Rejection

This procedure verifies the following image responses of the PXIe-5665:

For test frequencies <3.6 GHz:

• IF1 Image = Test Frequency + 9.225 GHz

• IF2 Image = 3.3875 GHz

• IF3 Image = 987.5 MHz

• IF2 Image at RF = Test Frequency + 1.225 GHz

• IF3 Image at RF = |Test Frequency - 375 MHz | (Evaluated only for images greater than
10 MHz)

For test frequencies >3.6 GHz,

• IF1 Image = Test Frequency + 1.225 GHz

• IF2 Image = 987.5 GHz

• IF2 Image at RF = Test Frequency - 375 MHz

where Test Frequency is the PXIe-5665 center frequency.

48 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

1. Connect RF source 2 to the PXIe-5665 RF IN using the SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable. The

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX
25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+
22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

1

2

completed equipment setup is shown in Figure 17 and Figure 18.

Figure 17. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Image Rejection Verification Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 2 2 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 49

Figure 18. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Image Rejection Verification Equipment Setup

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

1

2

1 RF Source 2 2 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the RF source 2 using the following values:

• Mode: Single frequency

• Power level: 0 dBm

4. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: RMS Averaging

• Number of Averages: 20

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Preamp Enabled: Disabled

• Span: 20 kHz

50 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

• Resolution Bandwidth: 100 Hz

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 40 MHz (25 MHz for the PXIe-5665 with 25 MHz
bandwidth)

• RF Attenuation: 10 dB

• Reference Level: 0 dBm

•

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Preselector Enabled: Enabled

5. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency according to Table 26 or Table 27 as appropriate.

Table 26. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Image Rejection Verification Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency (GHz) Step Size (MHz)

100.033325 MHz 2.000033325 400

2.399966675 GHz 3.599966675 400

Table 27. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Image Rejection Verification Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency (GHz) Step Size (MHz)

100.033325 MHz 2.000033325 400

2.399966675 GHz 13.999966675 400

6. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

7. For each test frequency from Table 26 or Table 27, calculate PXIe-5665 image frequencies
using the following formulas:

For test frequencies <3.6 GHz,

• IF1 Image = Test Frequency + 9.225 GHz

• IF2 Image = 3.3875 GHz

• IF3 Image = 987.5 MHz

• IF2 Image at RF = Test Frequency + 1.225 GHz

• IF3 Image at RF = | Test Frequency - 375 MHz | (Evaluated only for images greater

than 10 MHz)

For test frequencies > 3.6 GHz,

• IF1 Image = Test Frequency + 1.225 GHz

• IF2 Image = 987.5 MHz

• IF2 Image at RF = Test Frequency - 375 MHz

where Test Frequency is the PXIe-5665 center frequency.

8. For each image and test frequency in the list from step 7 and the PXIe-5665 center
frequency from step 5, set the RF source 2 to the frequency with a Power Setting of 0 dB.
The RF Source Power Direct for this frequency is used in step 11.

Note RF Source Power Direct value was measured in the Characterizing RF

Source Power (Direct) equipment characterization procedure.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 51

9. Wait for 200 ms to allow the PXIe-5665 and RF source 2 amplitudes to settle.

Note Settling times are a characteristic of the RF source device. Refer to the Test

Equipment section of this document for a list of NI-recommended source devices and

device specifications. If you use an RF source device with different device
specifications, your settling times may differ from those listed in this procedure.

10. Acquire the spectrum and determine the peak power for each frequency. The peak power
value is the Measured Level.

11. For each Measured Level, calculate the Response Correction using the following equation:

Response Correction = Measured Level + RF Source Power Direct

12. Calculate the Image Rejection at each of the image frequencies using the following
equation:

Image Rejection = Response Correction (at test frequency) - Response Correction (at each

image frequency)

13. Repeat steps 5 to 12 for all center frequencies in Table 26 or Table 27.

14. Compare the Image Rejection results to the verification test limits in Table 28.

Table 28. Image Rejection Verification Test Limits

Center Frequency As-Found Limit As-Left Limit

*

100 MHz to 2.2 GHz -80 dBc -83 dBc

>2.2 GHz to 3.6 GHz -77 dBc -80 dBc

>3.6 GHz to 14 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

†

-80 dBc -82 dBc

about as-left limits.

†

Center frequencies >3.6 GHz apply only to the PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA.

15. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the image rejection verification procedure determines that the PXIe-5665 is outside its limits,
refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about support resources or service
requests.

52 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Verifying Third-Order Intermodulation Distortion

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

J

J

J

J

J

J

K

K

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

166375A

RF

INPUT 2

6

1

5

2

4

3

Frequencies ≤700 MHz

1. Connect RF source 1 and RF source 2 to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector through the
anti-distortion test fixture as shown in Figure 19 and Figure 20.

Figure 19. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Third-Order Intermodulation Verification

(Frequencies ≤700 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 53

Figure 20. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Third-Order Intermodulation Verification

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+
22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET 166375A

RF

INPUT 2

1

5

2

4

3

6

(Frequencies ≤700 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: RMS Averaging

• Number of Averages: 10

• Digital IF Equalization Enabled: TRUE

• Digitizer Dither Enabled: Enabled

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• RF Attenuation: 0 dB

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 300 kHz

• IF Output Power Level: 0 dB

• Resolution Bandwidth: 750 Hz

• Span: 150 kHz

4. Configure the anti-distortion test fixture to use the ≤ 700 MHz combiner path.

54 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

5. Disable the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

6. Set the RF source 1 power to the RF Source 1 Programmed Power

1

corresponding to one

of the following values:

• Preamplifier disabled: -10 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

7. Set the RF source 2 power to the RF Source 2 Programmed Power

2

corresponding to one

of the following values:

• Preamplifier disabled: -10 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

8. Configure the PXIe-5665 reference level to one of the following values:

• Preamplifier disabled: -10 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

9. For each test frequency from Table 29, calculate the following four frequencies:

• IMD Low Frequency = Test Frequency - 1.05 MHz

• P1 Frequency = Test Frequency + 350 kHz

• P2 Frequency = Test Frequency - 350 kHz

• IMD High Frequency = Test Frequency + 1.05 MHz

where IMD is the intermodulation distortion.

Table 29. TOI (Frequencies ≤700 MHz) Verification Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency (MHz) Step Size (MHz)

12.05 MHz 92.05 40

100 MHz 700 300

10. Set the RF source 1 frequency to P1 Frequency.

11. Set the RF source 2 frequency to P2 Frequency.

12. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency to IMD Low Frequency.

13. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

14. Enable the RF source 1 and the RF source 2 outputs.

1

The RF Source 1 Programmed Power value was measured in the RF Source Power (Combined) for

Frequencies

2

The RF Source 2 Programmed Power value was measured in the RF Source Power (Combined) for

Frequencies

≤ 700 MHz equipment characterization procedure.

≤ 700 MHz equipment characterization procedure.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 55

15. Wait 2.5 s before making the first measurement and wait 100 ms before making subsequent
measurements to allow the PXIe-5665, RF source 1, and RF source 2 amplitudes to settle.

Note Settling times are a characteristic of the RF source device. Refer to the Test

Equipment section of this document for a list of NI-recommended source devices and

device specifications. If you use an RF source device with different device
specifications, your settling times may differ from those listed in this procedure.

16. Measure the power spectrum with the PXIe-5665.

17. Find the highest peak within the measurement bandwidth. This value is the IMD Low
Power.

18. Repeat steps 11 to 16 for the PXIe-5665 center frequencies of P1 Frequency,

P2 Frequency, and IMD High Frequency. The values from step 16 are IMD Low Power, P1
Power, P2 Power, and IMD High Power, respectively.

19. Calculate the upper and lower third-order intercept (TOI) points using the following
equations:

TOI Upper = P1 Power + (P2 Power - IMD High Power)/2

TOI Lower = P2 Power + (P1 Power - IMD Low Power)/2

20. The smaller of the TOI Lower and TOI Upper values is the TOI Minimum.

21. Repeat steps 8 to 19 for all test frequencies in Table 29.

22. Repeat steps 5 to 20 with the PXIe-5665 preamplifier enabled.

23. Compare the TOI Minimum to the verification test limits in Table 30 or Table 31 as
appropriate.

Table 30. TOI (Frequencies ≤700 MHz) Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Disabled)

Center Frequency As-Found Limit (dBm) As-Left Limit (dBm)

10 MHz to <100 MHz +16 +17

100 MHz to 700 MHz +19 +20

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

Table 31. TOI (Frequencies ≤ 700 MHz) Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Enabled)

Center Frequency As-Found Limit (dBm) As-Left Limit (dBm)

10 MHz to <100 MHz -3 -2

100 MHz to 700 MHz +2 +3

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

56 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

*

*

24. Disable the output of the RF source 1 and RF source 2.

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

J

J

J

J

J

J

K

K

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

166375A

RF

INPUT 2

6

1

5

2

4

3

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

25. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the third-order intermodulation distortion for frequencies ≤700 MHz verification procedure
determines that the PXIe-5665 is outside its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for
information about support resources or service requests.

Frequencies >700 MHz

1. Connect RF source 1 and RF source 2 to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector through the
anti-distortion test fixture as shown in Figure 21 and Figure 22.

Figure 21. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Third-Order Intermodulation (Frequencies >700 MHz)

Verification Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 57

Figure 22. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Third-Order Intermodulation (Frequencies >700 MHz)

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+
22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET 166375A

RF

INPUT 2

1

5

2

4

3

6

Verification Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) cable

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: RMS Averaging

• Number of Averages: 10

• Digital IF Equalization Enabled: TRUE

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• RF Attenuation: 0 dB

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 300 kHz

• IF Output Power Level: 0 dB

• Resolution Bandwidth: 750 Hz

• Span: 150 kHz

•

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Preselector Enabled: Disabled

4. Configure the anti-distortion test fixture to use the >700 MHz combiner path.

58 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

5. Disable the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

6. Set the RF source 1 power to the RF Source 1 Programmed Power

1

corresponding to one

of the following values:

• Preamplifier disabled: -10 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

7. Set the RF source 2 power to the RF Source 2 Programmed Power

2

corresponding to one

of the following values:

• Preamplifier disabled: -10 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

8. Configure the PXIe-5665 Reference Level to one the following values:

• Preamplifier disabled: -10 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

9. For each test frequency from Table 32 or Table 33, calculate the following four frequencies:

• IMD Low Frequency = Test Frequency - 1.05 MHz

• P1 Frequency = Test Frequency + 350 kHz

• P2 Frequency = Test Frequency - 350 kHz

• IMD High Frequency = Test Frequency + 1.05 MHz

Table 32. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA TOI (Frequencies >700 MHz)

Verification Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

800 MHz 3.3 GHz 500 MHz

3.59895 GHz — —

1

The RF Source 1 Programmed Power value was measured in the Characterizing RF Source Power

(Combined) for Frequencies >700 MHz equipment characterization procedure.

2

The RF Source 2 Programmed Power value was measured in the Characterizing RF Source Power

(Combined) for Frequencies >700 MHz equipment characterization procedure.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 59

Table 33. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA TOI (Frequencies >700 MHz)

Verification Test Frequencies

Stop Frequency

Preamp Enabled Start Frequency

(GHz)

Step Size (MHz)

Enabled 800 MHz 3.3 500

Disabled 800 MHz 3.3 500

3.6 GHz 13.6 500

13.99895 GHz — —

10. Set the RF source 1 frequency to P1 Frequency.

11. Set the RF source 2 frequency to P2 Frequency.

12. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency to IMD Low Frequency.

13. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

14. Enable the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs.

15. Wait 2.5 s before making the first measurement and wait 100 ms before making subsequent
measurements to allow the PXIe-5665, RF source 1, and RF source 1 amplitudes to settle.

Note Settling times are a characteristic of the RF source device. Refer to the Test

Equipment section of this document for a list of NI-recommended source devices and

device specifications. If you use an RF source device with different device
specifications, your settling times may differ from those listed in this procedure.

16. Measure the power spectrum with the PXIe-5665.

17. Find the highest peak within the measurement bandwidth. This value is the IMD Low
Power.

18. Repeat steps 11 to step 16 for the PXIe-5665 center frequencies of P1 Frequency,

P2 Frequency, and IMD High Frequency. The values from step 16 are IMD Low Power,
P1 Power, P2 Power, and IMD High Power, respectively.

19. Calculate the upper and lower TOI points using the following equations:

TOI Upper= P1 Power + (P2 Power - IMD High Power)/2

TOI Lower= P2 Power + (P1 Power - IMD Low Power)/2

The smaller value of the TOI Lower and TOI Upper is the TOI Minimum.

20. Repeat steps 8 to 18 for all test frequencies in Table 32.

21. Repeat steps 5 to 19 with the PXIe-5665 preamplifier enabled for frequencies greater than
or equal to 3.6 GHz.

60 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

22. Compare the TOI Minimum to the verification test limits in Table 34 or Table 35 as
appropriate.

Table 34. TOI (Frequencies >700 MHz) Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Disabled,

PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Preselector Disabled)

Center Frequency As-Found Limit (dBm) As-Left Limit (dBm)

*

>700 MHz to 3.6 GHz +20 +21

>3.6 GHz to 14 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

†

+20 +21

about as-left limits.

†

Center frequencies >3.6 GHz apply only to the PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA.

Table 35. TOI (Frequencies >700 MHz) Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Enabled)

Center Frequency As-Found Limit As-Left Limit

*

>700 MHz to 3.6 GHz +2.5 dBm +3.5 dBm

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

23. Disable the output of the RF source 1 and RF source 2.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

24. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the third-order intermodulation distortion for frequencies >700 MHz verification procedure
determines that the PXIe-5665 is outside its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for
information about support resources or service requests.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 61

Verifying Second Harmonic Intercept (SHI)

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

J

J

J

J

J

J

K

K

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

166375A

RF

INPUT 2

6

1

5

2

4

3

1. Connect RF source 1 and RF source 2 to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector through the
anti-distortion test fixture as shown in Figure 23 and Figure 24.

Figure 23. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA SHI Verification Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

62 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

Figure 24. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA SHI Verification Equipment Setup

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+
22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET 166375A

RF

INPUT 2

1

5

2

4

3

6

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Digital IF Equalization Enabled: TRUE

• Digitizer Dither Enabled: Enabled

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Span: 150 kHz

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 300 kHz

• Resolution Bandwidth: 750 Hz

• RF Attenuation: 10 dB

• Power Spectrum Units: Volts Squared

•

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Preselector Enabled: Disabled

4. Configure the anti-distortion test fixture to use the 470 MHz Lowpass Filter path.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 63

5. Disable the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

6. Disable the PXIe-5665 preamplifier.

7. Set the PXIe-5665 reference level to one of the following values:

• Preamplifier disabled: 0 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

8. Set the RF source 2 frequency and the PXIe-5665 center frequency to the values shown in
the first row of Table 36.

Table 36. SHI Verification Test Frequencies

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size (MHz)

300 MHz 700 MHz 200

800 MHz 1.8 GHz 500

2 GHz 3.5 GHz 500

3.8 GHz 6.8 GHz 500

7 GHz — —

9. Configure the anti-distortion test fixture to use the appropriate Lowpass Filter Path as
shown in Table 37.

Table 37. Lowpass Filter Specifications

Lowpass Filter Path (MHz) Frequency Range

470 1 MHz to 470 MHz

735 >470 MHz to 735 MHz

1,150 >735 MHz to 1.150 GHz

1,800 >1.150 GHz to 1.800 GHz

2,530 >1.800 GHz to 2.530 GHz

3,550 >2.530 GHz to 3.550 GHz

4,985 >3.550 GHz to 4.985 GHz

7,000 >4.985 GHz to 7.000 GHz

10. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

64 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

11. Set the RF source 2 power to the RF Source Power LPF to one of the following values for

Noise Measurement BW

Span

2

------------

10 kHz

2

------------------–=

Noise CF Center Frequency

Span

4

------------

10 kHz

4

------------------++=

Average Noise Power Power in Band 10

Noise Measurement BW

Resolution Bandwidth

----------------------------------------------------------





10

log–=

the RF source 2 frequency:

• Preamplifier disabled: 0 dBm

• Preamplifier enabled: -30 dBm

12. Enable the RF source 2 output.

13. Wait 500 ms before making the first measurement and wait 100 ms before making
subsequent measurements to allow the PXIe-5665 and RF source 2 amplitudes to settle.

Note Settling times are a characteristic of the RF source device. Refer to the Test

Equipment section of this document for a list of NI-recommended source devices and

device specifications. If you use an RF source device with different device
specifications, your settling times may differ from those listed in this procedure.

14. Measure the power spectrum with the PXIe-5665.

15. Find the highest peak within the measurement bandwidth (BW). This value is the Peak
Power.

16. Calculate the Noise Measurement BW and the Noise Center Frequency (CF) using the
following equations:

17. Calculate the Power in Band for the spectrum from step 13 using the Noise Measurement
BW and Noise CF values from step 16.

Note Power in Band is a built-in function in the NI Spectral Measurements Toolkit.

18. Calculate the Average Noise Power using the following equation:

19. Record either Peak Power (from step 14) or Average Noise Power (from step 17).
According to the frequency tuned to with the PXIe-5665, record whichever value is greater
as the Fundamental Power or the Harmonic Power.

20. Repeat steps 7 to 19 for the second harmonic, which is twice the test frequency.

21. Calculate the SHI using the following equation:

SHI = 2(Fundamental Power) - Harmonic Power - RF Attenuation

22. Repeat steps 7 to 20 for all test frequencies listed in Table 36.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 65

23. (PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Repeat steps 6 to 21 for test frequencies between 3.8 GHz and
7 GHz with the PXIe-5665 preselector enabled.

24. Repeat steps 6 to 22 for the frequencies in Table 38 with the PXIe-5665 preamplifier
enabled.

Table 38. SHI Verification Test Frequencies

Start Frequency (MHz) Stop Frequency Step Size

300.0333125 1.3000333125 GHz 200 MHz

1,800 — —

25. Compare the SHI to the verification test limits in Table 39, Table 40, or Table 41 as
appropriate.

Table 39. SHI Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Disabled,

PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Preselector Enabled)

Source

Frequency

300 MHz to

Device

PXIe-5665 +42 +43

As-Found Limit

(dBm)

As-Left Limit

*

(dBm)

<700 MHz

700 MHz to

1.8 GHz

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

+50 +51

+44 +45

14 GHz VSA

>1.8 GHz to

3.75 GHz

†

>3.75 GHz to

4.25 GHz

†

>4.25 GHz to

†

7 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

+54 +56

+54 +56

+54 +56

about as-left limits.

†

Source frequencies >1.8 GHz apply only to the PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA.

66 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Table 40. SHI Verification Test Limits (Preamplifier Enabled)

Source

Frequency

300 MHz to

1.8 GHz

Device

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

PXIe-5665

As-Found Limit

(dBm)

+15 +18

+20 +25

As-Left Limit

*

(dBm)

14 GHz VSA

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

Table 41. SHI Verification Test Limits (PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Preselector Disabled)

Frequency (GHz) As-Found Limit (dBm) As-Left Limit (dBm)

>1.80 to 4.25 +28 +30

>4.25 to 7.00 +18 +20

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

26. Disable the output of RF source 2.

Note When disabled, the RF source 2 output signal should be less than -60 dBm.

27. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

*

If the second harmonic intercept verification procedure determines that the PXIe-5665 is outside
its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about support resources or
service requests.

Verifying Gain Compression

This procedure verifies that <1 dB of gain compression occurs when the specified power level
is applied at the RF IN connector of the PXIe-5665.

Note The power level you apply differs whether you are verifying the as-found or

as-left limit.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 67

Frequencies ≤700 MHz

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

J

J

J

J

J

J

K

K

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

166375A

RF

INPUT 2

6

1

5

2

4

3

1. Connect RF source 1 and RF source 2 to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector through the
anti-distortion test fixture, as shown in Figure 25 and Figure 26.

Figure 25. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Gain Compression Verification

(Frequencies ≤700 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

68 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

Figure 26. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Gain Compression Verification

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+
22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET 166375A

RF

INPUT 2

1

5

2

4

3

6

(Frequencies ≤700 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: No Averaging

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Span: 100 kHz

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 300 kHz

• Resolution Bandwidth: 500 Hz

• RF Attenuation: 0 dB

• FFT Window Type: Flat Top

4. Configure the anti-distortion test fixture to use the ≤700 MHz combiner path.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 69

5. Disable the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

6. Disable the PXIe-5665 preamplifier.

7. Set the RF source 2 frequency according to Table 42.

8. Set the RF source 1 frequency 1 MHz above the RF source 2 frequency.

9. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency according to the first row in Table 42.

Table 42. Gain Compression Verification Test Frequencies (Frequencies ≤700 MHz)

Start Frequency (MHz) Stop Frequency (MHz) Step Size (MHz)

10 90 40

100 700 200

10. Set the RF source 2 power to the RF Source 2 Programmed Power in Table 43 or Table 44
as appropriate.

11. Set the RF source 1 power to the RF Source 1 Programmed Power in Table 43 or Table 44
as appropriate.

12. Set the PXIe-5665 reference level according to Table 43 or Table 44 as appropriate.

Table 43. Gain Compression Verification Test Settings (Preamplifier Disabled)

Setting Frequency Range (MHz) Limit Value ( dBm )

RF Source 1

Programmed Power

RF Source 2

11 to 701 As-Found +8.0

*

As-Left

+9.1

10 to 700 Both -24

Programmed Power

PXIe-5665 Reference

10 to 700 Both 0

Level

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

70 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Table 44. Gain Compression Test Settings (Preamplifier Enabled)

Setting Frequency Range (MHz) Limit Valu e (dBm)

RF Source 1

Programmed Power

11 to 101 As-Found -18

*

As-Left

-16

>101 to 701 As-Found -15

*

RF Source 2

As-Left

10 to 700 Both -54

-13

Programmed Power

PXIe-5665 Reference

10 to 700 Both -30

Level

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

13. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

14. Enable the RF source 2 output and wait 250 ms, or wait 100 ms if the output is already
enabled. This wait time allows the PXIe-5665 and RF source 2 amplitudes to settle.

Note Settling times are a characteristic of the RF source device. Refer to the Test

Equipment section of this document for a list of NI-recommended source devices and

device specifications. If you use an RF source device with different device
specifications, your settling times may differ from those listed in this procedure.

15. Read the power spectrum from the PXIe-5665.

16. Depending on your equipment configuration, using the spectrum returned from the
PXIe-5665, measure the power at the center frequency and record this value as the Small

Tone First Measurement (RF source 1 output disabled) or as the Small Tone Second
Measurement (RF source 1 output enabled).

17. Repeat steps 7 to 16 for all test frequencies in Table 42.

18. Repeat steps 7 to 17 with the PXIe-5665 preamplifier enabled.

19. Enable the RF source 1 output.

20. Repeat steps 6 to 18 with the RF source 1 output enabled.

21. Calculate the PXIe-5665 Gain Compression using the following equation:

Gain Compression = Small Tone First Measurement - Small Tone Second Measurement

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 71

22. Compare the Gain Compression to the verification test limits in Table 45 or Table 46 as
appropriate.

Table 45. Gain Compression Verification Test Limits

(Frequencies

≤700 MHz, Preamplifier Disabled)

Compression

Frequency Limit

10 MHz to

700 MHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

As-Found 1 +8

*

As-Left

(dB)

1 +9.1

Applied Power

(dBm)

about as-left limits.

The device specification calls for less than or equal to 1 dB gain compression for a minimum
applied power. The applied power includes the measurement uncertainty to guarantee the
required minimum applied power.

Table 46. Gain Compression Verification Test Limits

(Frequencies

Frequency Limit

10 MHz to

100 MHz

>100 MHz to

700 MHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

≤700 MHz, Preamplifier Enabled)

Compression

(dB)

Applied Power

(dBm)

As-Found 1 -18

*

As-Left

1 -16

As-Found 1 -15

*

As-Left

1 -13

about as-left limits.

The device specification calls for less than or equal to 1 dB gain compression for a minimum
applied power. The applied power includes the measurement uncertainty to guarantee the
required minimum applied power.

23. Disable the output of RF source 1 and RF source 2.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

24. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the gain compression for frequencies ≤700 MHz verification procedure determines that the
PXIe-5665 is outside its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about
support resources or service requests.

72 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Frequencies >700 MHz

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

ACCESS ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

J

J

J

J

J

J

K

K

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET

166375A

RF

INPUT 2

6

1

5

2

4

3

1. Connect RF source 1 and RF source 2 to the PXIe-5665 RF IN connector through the
anti-distortion test fixture, as shown in Figure 27 and Figure 28.

Figure 27. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA Gain Compression Verification

(Frequencies >700 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 73

Figure 28. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA Gain Compression Verification

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

IF OUT

+
22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

RF

OUTPUT

RF

INPUT 1

NI-5665 ANTI-DISTORTION ET 166375A

RF

INPUT 2

1

5

2

4

3

6

(Frequencies >700 MHz) Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 1
2 RF Source 2
3 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 Anti-Distortion Test Fixture
6 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable

2. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

3. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property settings:

• Acquisition Type: Spectrum

• Averaging Mode: No Averaging

• Ref Clock Source: PXI_Clk

• Channel Coupling: AC Coupled

• Span: 100 kHz

• Device Instantaneous Bandwidth: 300 kHz

• Resolution Bandwidth: 500 Hz

• RF Attenuation: 0 dB

• FFT Window Type: Flat Top

4. Configure the anti-distortion test fixture to use the >700 MHz combiner path.

74 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

5. Disable the RF source 1 and RF source 2 outputs.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

6. Disable the PXIe-5665 preamplifier.

7.

(PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Disable the PXIe-5665 preselector.

8. Set the RF source 2 frequency according to the first row in Table 47 or Table 48 as
appropriate.

Table 47. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz Gain Compression Test Frequencies

(Frequencies >700 MHz)

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

800 MHz 3.3 GHz 500 MHz

3.6 GHz — —

Table 48. PXIe-5665 14 GHz Gain Compression Test Frequencies

(Frequencies >700 MHz)

Start Frequency Stop Frequency Step Size

800 MHz 3.3 GHz 500 MHz

3.6 GHz — —

3.8 GHz 13.8 GHz 500 MHz

14 GHz — —

9. Set the RF source 1 frequency 1 MHz above the RF source 2 frequency.

10. Set the PXIe-5665 center frequency according to the values listed in Table 47 or Table 48.

11. Set the RF source 2 power to the RF Source 2 Programmed Power from Table 49 or
Table 50 as appropriate.

12. Set the RF source 1 power to the RF Source 1 Programmed Power from Table 49 or
Table 50 as appropriate.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 75

13. Set the PXIe-5665 reference level according to Table 49 or Table 50 as appropriate.

Table 49. Gain Compression Verification Test Settings

(Preamplifier Disabled)

Frequency

Device Setting

Range

Limit Value (dB m)

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

RF Source 1

Programmed

Power

RF Source 2

Programmed

801 MHz to

1.701 GHz

>1.701 GHz to

3.601 GHz

800 MHz to

3.600 GHz

As-Found +8.0

*

As-Left

+9.1

As-Found +6.0

*

As-Left

+7.1

Both -24

Power

PXIe-5665

Reference

800 MHz to

3.600 GHz

Both 0

Level

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

RF Source 1

Programmed

Power

RF Source 2

Programmed

801 MHz to

1.701 GHz

>1.701 GHz to

14.001 GHz

800 MHz to

14.00 GHz

As-Found +8.0

*

As-Left

+9.1

As-Found +6.0

*

As-Left

+7.1

Both -24

Power

PXIe-5665

Reference

800 MHz to

14.00 GHz

Both 0

Level

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

76 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Table 50. Gain Compression Verification Test Settings

Device Setting

(Preamplifier Enabled)

Frequency

Range

Limit Value (dB m)

PXIe-5665

3.6 GHz VSA

RF Source 1
Programmed

Power

RF Source 2
Programmed

801 MHz to

1.701 GHz

>1.701 GHz to

3.601 GHz

800 MHz to

3.600 GHz

As-Found -15

*

As-Left

-13

As-Found -18

*

As-Left

-16

Both -54

Power

PXIe-5665

Reference

800 MHz to

3.600 GHz

Both -30

Level

PXIe-5665

14 GHz VSA

RF Source 1
Programmed

Power

RF Source 2
Programmed

801 MHz to

1.701 GHz

>1.701 GHz to

14.001 GHz

800 MHz to

14.00 GHz

As-Found -15

*

As-Left

-13

As-Found -18

*

As-Left

-16

Both -54

Power

PXIe-5665

Reference

80 MHz to

14.00 GHz

Both -30

Level

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

about as-left limits.

14. Commit the PXIe-5665 settings to hardware.

15. Enable the RF source 2 output and wait 250 ms, or wait 100 ms if the output is already
enabled. This wait time allows the PXIe-5665 and RF source 2 amplitudes to settle.

Note Settling times are a characteristic of the RF source device. Refer to the Test

Equipment section of this document for a list of NI-recommended source devices and

device specifications. If you use an RF source device with different device
specifications, your settling times may differ from those listed in this procedure.

16. Read the power spectrum from the PXIe-5665.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 77

17. Depending on your equipment configuration, using the spectrum returned from the
PXIe-5665, measure the power at the center frequency and record this value as the Small

Tone First Measurement (RF source 1 output disabled) or as the Small Tone Second
Measurement (RF source 1 output enabled).

18. Repeat steps 8 to 17 for all test frequencies in step 8.

19. (PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA) Repeat steps 8 to 18 for frequencies greater than 3.6 GHz with
the PXIe-5665 preselector enabled.

20. Repeat steps 7 to 18 with the PXIe-5665 preamplifier enabled for frequencies less than

3.6 GHz.

21. Enable the RF source 1 output.

22. Repeat steps 6 to 20 with the RF source 1 output enabled.

23. Calculate the PXIe-5665 Gain Compression using the following equation:

Gain Compression = Small Tone First Measurement - Small Tone Second Measurement

24. Compare the Gain Compression to the verification test limits in Table 51 or Table 52.

Table 51. Gain Compression Verification Test Limits (>700 MHz, Preamplifier Disabled)

Compression

Frequency Limit

>700 MHz to

1.70 GHz

>1.70 GHz to

3.6 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

As-Found 1 +8.0

*

As-Left

As-Found 1 +6.0

*

As-Left

(dB)

1 +9.1

1 +7.1

Applied Power

(dBm)

about as-left limits.

The device specification calls for less than or equal to 1 dB gain compression for a minimum
applied power. The applied power includes the measurement uncertainty to guarantee the
required minimum applied power.

78 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Table 52. Gain Compression Verification Test Limits (>700 MHz, Preamplifier Enabled)

Compression

Frequency Limit

>700 MHz to

1.70 GHz

>1.70 GHz to

3.6 GHz

*

Refer to the As-Found and As-Left Limits section of this document for more information

As-Found 1 -15

*

As-Left

As-Found 1 -18

*

As-Left

(dB)

1 -13

1 -16

Applied Power

(dBm)

about as-left limits.

The device specification calls less than or equal to 1 dB gain compression for a minimum
applied power. The applied power includes the measurement uncertainty to guarantee the
required minimum applied power.

25. Disable the output of RF source 1 and RF source 2.

Note When disabled, the RF source 1 and RF source 2 output signals should be less

than -60 dBm.

26. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

If the gain compression for frequencies >700 MHz verification procedure determines that the
PXIe-5665 is outside its limits, refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about
support resources or service requests.

Verifying LO Output Power

Note Prior to starting this procedure, zero and calibrate the power sensor according

to the Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor section of this document.

1. Connect the RF source 2 output to the PXIe-5605 RF IN connector using the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable.

2. Connect power sensor A to the PXIe-5605 LO3 OUT connector using the SMA (m)-to­SMA (m) cable.

3. Connect the spectrum analyzer to the PXIe-5605 LO2 OUT connector.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 79

4. Connect power sensor B to the PXIe-5605 LO1 OUT connector. The completed setup is

1

2

3

5

6

7

4

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p

NOM

+

20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50 Ω

50 Ω

NI PXIe-562 2

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

OUT

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

2 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

0.5 V rms

REF OUT

100 MHz

0.5 V rms

ESD
SENSITIVE

ACCESS

ACTIVE

OUT

IN

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50 Ω

NI PXIe-5603

Downconverter 20 Hz - 3.6 GHz

RF IN

0 V DC, DC COUPLED

25 V DC MAX, AC COUPLED

+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz

0 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

+

15 dBm MAX
25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

8

shown in Figure 29 and Figure 30.

Figure 29. PXIe-5665 3.6 GHz VSA LO Output Power Verification Equipment Setup

1 RF Source 2
2 Spectrum Analyzer
3 Power Meter

Note Attach the 10 dB attenuator directly to the PXIe-5606 LO2 OUT connector.

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
6 Power Sensor A

80 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

7 Power Sensor B
8 10 dB Attenuator

Figure 30. PXIe-5665 14 GHz VSA LO Output Power Verification Equipment Setup

OUT

NI PXIe-5653

Synthesizer

REF IN

10 MHz

5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

10 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

REF OUT

100 MHz

1.5 V p-p MAX

LO3

800 MHz

LO2

4 GHz

LO1

3.2 GHz - 8.3 GHz

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

ALL PORTS

50

NI PXIe-5605

Downconverter 20 Hz - 14 GHz

ACCESS

ACTIVE

CLK IN

CLK OUT

PFI 1

ESD
SENSITIVE

TTL

6.3 Vp-p
MAX

2 Vp-p
NOM

+
20 dBm MAX

50 Ω

50

50

NI PXIe-5622

16-Bit IF Digitizer

IF IN

LO1

LO2

LO3

IN

ESD
SENSITIVE

OUT

LO3

LO2

LO1

ALL PORTS

50

+

15 dBm MAX

25 V DC MAX

+

15 dBm MAX

0 V DC

ACCESS

ACTIVE

RF IN

0 V DC
+20 dBm MAX > 10 MHz
+10 dBm MAX < 10 MHz

IF OUT

+

22 dBm MAX

0 V DC

K

K

J

J

J

J

J

J

1

2

3

4

7

8

6

5

1 RF Source 2
2 Spectrum Analyzer
3 Power Meter

4 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
5 SMA (m)-to-SMA (m) Cable
6 Power Sensor A

7 Power Sensor B
8 10 dB Attenuator

Note Attach the 10 dB attenuator directly to the PXIe-5606 LO2 OUT connector.

5. Configure the spectrum analyzer according to the following settings:

• Resolution Bandwidth: 1 kHz

• Span: 0 Hz

• Reference Level: +20 dBm

• Center Frequency: 4 GHz

6. Configure the RF source 2 according to the following settings:

•Power: -20dBm

• Frequency: 1 GHz

Note The RF source 2 settings do not affect this test. It is programmed to a known

state for convenience only.

7. Create a new session for the PXIe-5665.

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 81

8. Configure the PXIe-5665 according to the following property setting:

• LO Export Enabled: True

9. Initiate the PXIe-5665.

10. Close the PXIe-5665 session.

11. Create a new session for the PXIe-5653.

12. Configure the PXIe-5653 according to the following property settings:

• Ref Clock Source: PXI -Clk

• Frequency: 4.05625 GHz

13. Read the power meter channel B power and correct for the PXIe-5653 frequency.

14. Repeat step 13 and record the frequency where the minimum measured power occurs for
the following PXIe-5653 frequencies:

• Minimum frequency: 4.05625 GHz

• Maximum frequency: 8.2125 GHz

• Frequency step: 50 MHz

15. Tune the PXIe-5653 to the frequency found in step 14.

16. Measure the LO1 power with power meter channel B. Correct the reading for the LO1
frequency.

17. Measure the LO2 power with the spectrum analyzer. Correct the reading for the 4 GHz LO2
frequency using the following equation:

LO2 Power = Spectrum Analyzer Reading + Spectrum Analyzer Correction Factor

1

18. Measure the LO3 power with power meter channel A. Correct the reading for the LO3
frequency of 800 MHz.

19. Compare the readings from steps 16 to 18 to the following verification test limits in
Table 53.

Table 53. LO Output Power Verification Test Limits

LO As-Found (dBm) As-Left (dBm)

LO1 >7.0 7.0 to 8.0

LO2 >7.0 9.0 to 10.0

LO3 >7.0 9.0 to 10.0

20. Close the PXIe-5653 session.

If the LO output power verification procedure determines that the PXIe-5665 is outside its limits,
refer to Worldwide Support and Services for information about support resources or service
requests.

1

The Spectrum Analyzer Correction Factor value was calculated in the Characterizing Spectrum Analyzer

Response equipment characterization procedure.

82 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Reverification

Repeat the Verification section to determine the as-left status of the device.

Appendix A: Anti-Distortion Test Fixture

Note The anti-distortion test fixture specifications are for the entire fixture and

include the performance of all components internal to the fixture.

Table 54. Lowpass Filter Passband Paths

Filter Path (MHz) Start (MHz) Stop (MHz)

470 10 ≤470 2.5 1.75

735 >470 ≤735 2.5 1.75

1,150 >735 ≤1,150 2.5 1.75

1,800 >1,150 ≤1,800 2.5 1.75

2,530 >1,800 ≤2,530 2.5 1.75

3,550 >2,530 ≤3,550 2.5 1.75

4,985 >3,550 ≤4,985 2.5 1.75

7,000 >4,985 ≤7,000 2.5 1.75

*

Input or output ports.

Insertion Loss

(dB, max.)

VSWR* (max.)

Table 55. Lowpass Filter Stopband Paths

Filter Path (MHz) Start (MHz) Stop (MHz) Rejection

470 600 ≤940 50

735 >940 ≤1,470 50

1,150 >1,470 ≤2,300 50

1,800 >2,300 ≤3,600 50

*

2,530 >3,600 ≤5,060 70

3,550 >5,060 ≤7,100 70

4,985 >7,100 ≤9,970 70

7,000 >9,970 ≤14,000 70

*

Rejection equals Fundamental Power - Second Harmonic Power

PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 83

Table 56. Combiner Paths

Tot al

*

Combiner Path Start Stop

2 1 >700 MHz 10 GHz 8.0 20 1.75

2 18.0

2 1 >10 GHz 14 GHz 8.0 20 2.00

2 18.0

*

Total Loss includes the splitter loss at either input or output ports. The unused input port is terminated

in 50 Ω.

†

Isolation is the loss between input ports. The output port is terminated in 50 Ω.

‡

VSWR includes any port. All other ports are terminated in 50 Ω.

Loss

(dB, max.)

Isolation
(dB, min.)

†

VSWR

(max.)

Appendix B: Power Sensor Calibration Factor Uncertainty

Table 57. Maximum Power Sensor Calibration Factor Uncertainty

Frequency Calibration Factor Uncertainty (%)

10 MHz ≤1.15

‡

20 MHz ≤0.80

30 MHz ≤0.65

40 MHz to 200 MHz ≤0.55

300 MHz to 400 MHz ≤0.60

500 MHz to 1 GHz ≤0.50

2GHz to 4GHz ≤0.60

5 GHz ≤0.75

6 GHz ≤0.80

7 GHz ≤0.85

8 GHz ≤0.90

9 GHz ≤0.95

10 GHz ≤1.00

84 | ni.com | PXIe-5665 Calibration Procedure

Table 57. Maximum Power Sensor Calibration Factor Uncertainty (Continued)

Frequency Calibration Factor Uncertainty (%)

11 GHz ≤1.05

12 GHz ≤1.10

13 GHz ≤1.15

14 GHz ≤1.20

15 GHz ≤1.25

Worldwide Support and Services

The National Instruments website is your complete resource for technical support. At ni.com/

support

self-help resources to email and phone assistance from NI Application Engineers.

Vis it
other services.

Vis it
facilitates technical support and ensures that you receive important information updates from NI.

A Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is our claim of compliance with the Council of the European
Communities using the manufacturer’s declaration of conformity. This system affords the user
protection for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and product safety. You can obtain the DoC
for your product by visiting
you can obtain the calibration certificate for your product at

you have access to everything from troubleshooting and application development

ni.com/services for NI Factory Installation Services, repairs, extended warranty, and

ni.com/register to register your National Instruments product. Product registration

ni.com/certification. If your product supports calibration,

ni.com/calibration.

National Instruments corporate headquarters is located at 11500 North Mopac Expressway,
Austin, Texas, 78759-3504. National Instruments also has offices located around the world. For
telephone support in the United States, create your service request at

ni.com/support or dial

512 795 8248. For telephone support outside the United States, visit the Worldwide Offices
section of

ni.com/niglobal to access the branch office websites, which provide up-to-date

contact information, support phone numbers, email addresses, and current events.

Refer to the NI Trademarks and Logo Guidelines at ni.com/trademarks for more information on National Instruments trademarks. Other
product and company names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies. For patents covering National
Instruments products/technology, refer to the appropriate location: Help»Patents in your software, the patents.txt file on your media, or the
National Instruments Patents Notice at ni.com/patents. You can find information about end-user license agreements (EULAs) and third-party
legal notices in the readme file for your NI product. Refer to the Export Compliance Information at ni.com/legal/export-compliance
for the National Instruments global trade compliance policy and how to obtain re levant HTS codes, ECCNs, and other import/export data. NI MAKES
NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES AS TO THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
ANY ERRORS. U.S. Government Customers: The data contained in this manual was developed at private expense and is subject to the applicable
limited rights and restricted data rights as set forth in FAR 52.227-14, DFAR 252.227-7014, and DFAR 252.227-7015.

© 2011–2017 National Instruments. All rights reserved.

373205G-01 Nov17