Rohde&Schwarz ESL6, ESL3 Operating Manual

Operating Manual

EMI Test Receiver

R&S

1300.5001K03

1300.5001K13



ESL3

R&SESL6

1300.5001K06

1300.5001K16

Test and Measurement

1300.5053.62-03

Dear Customer,

Throughout this manual, the EMI Test Receiver R&S

®

is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG

R&S

®

ESL is abbreviated as R&S ESL.

Trade names are trademarks of the owners

1300.5053.62-03

Kundeninformation zur Batterieverordnung
(BattV)

Dieses Gerät enthält eine schadstoffhaltige Batterie.
Diese darf nicht mit dem Hausmüll entsorgt werden.
Nach Ende der Lebensdauer darf die Entsorgung nur
über eine Rohde&Schwarz-Kundendienststelle oder eine
geeignete Sammelstelle erfolgen.

Safety Regulations for Batteries
(according to BattV)

This equipment houses a battery containing harmful
substances that must not be disposed of as normal
household waste.
After its useful life, the battery may only be disposed of
at a Rohde & Schwarz service center or at a suitable
depot.

Normas de Seguridad para Baterías
(Según BattV)

Este equipo lleva una batería que contiene sustancias
perjudiciales, que no se debe desechar en los
contenedores de basura domésticos.
Después de la vida útil, la batería sólo se podrá eliminar
en un centro de servicio de Rohde & Schwarz o en un
depósito apropiado.

Consignes de sécurité pour batteries
(selon BattV)

Cet appareil est équipé d'une pile comprenant des
substances nocives. Ne jamais la jeter dans une
poubelle pour ordures ménagéres.
Une pile usagée doit uniquement être éliminée par un
centre de service client de Rohde & Schwarz ou peut
être collectée pour être traitée spécialement comme
déchets dangereux.

1171.0300.51 D/E/ESP/F-1

Customer Information Regarding Product Disposal

The German Electrical and Electronic Equipment (ElektroG) Act is an implementation of
the following EC directives:

2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and

•

•

2002/95/EC on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in
e

lectrical and electronic equipment (RoHS).

Product labeling in accordance with EN 50419

Once the lifetime of a product has ended, this product must not be disposed of
in the standard domestic refuse. Even disposal via the municipal collection
points for waste electrical and electronic equipment is not permitted.

Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG has developed a disposal concept for the
environmental-friendly

as

obligation
in accordance with the ElektroG Act.

Please contact your local service representative to dispose of the product.

a producer to take back and dispose of electrical and electronic waste

disposal or recycling of waste material and fully assumes its

1171.0200.52-01.01

EC Certificate of Conformity

Certificate No.: 2008-43
This is to certify that:

Equipment type Stock No. Designation

ESL3 1300.5001.03/.13 EMI Test Receiver
ESL6 1300.5001.06/.16

FSL-B4 1300.6008.02 OCXO Reference Frequency
FSL-B5 1300.6108.02 Additional Interfaces
FSL-B8 1300.5701.02 Gated Sweep Function
FSL-B10 1300.6208.02 GPIB Interface
FSL-B22 1300.5953.02 RF Amplifier
FSL-B30 1300.6308.02 DC Power Supply
FSL-B31 1300.6408.02 NIMH Battery Pack
FSL-Z4 1300.5430.02 Additional Charger Unit

complies with the provisions of the Directive of the Council of the European Union on the
approximation of the laws of the Member States

- relating to electrical equipment for use within defined voltage limits
(2006/95/EC)

- relating to electromagnetic compatibility
(2004/108/EC)

Conformity is proven by compliance with the following standards:
EN 61010-1 : 2001

EN 61326 : 1997 + A1 : 1998 + A2 : 2001 + A3 : 2003
EN 55011 : 1998 + A1 : 1999 + A2 : 2002, Klasse B
EN 61000-3-2 : 2000 + A2 : 2005
EN 61000-3-3 : 1995 + A1 : 2001

For the assessment of electromagnetic compatibility, the limits of radio interference for Class B
equipment as well as the immunity to interference for operation in industry have been used as a basis.

Affixing the EC conformity mark as from 2008

ROHDE & SCHWARZ GmbH & Co. KG
Mühldorfstr. 15, D-81671 München

Munich, 2008-06-18 Central Quality Management MF-QZ / Radde

1300.5001.01 CE E-2

R&S ESL Documentation Overview

Documentation Overview

The user documentation for the R&S ESL is divided as follows:

• Quick Start Guide

• Online Help

• Operating Manual

• Internet Site

• Service Manual

• Release Notes

Quick Start Guide

This manual is delivered with the instrument in printed form and in PDF format on the CD. It provides the
information needed to set up and start working with the instrument. Basic operations and basic measurements
are described. Also a brief introduction to remote control is given. The manual includes general information
(e.g. Safety Instructions) and the following chapters:

Chapter 1 Front and Rear Panel

Chapter 2 Putting into Operation

Chapter 3 Firmware Update and Installation of Firmware Options

Chapter 4 Basic Operations

Chapter 5 Basic Measurement Examples

Chapter 6 Brief Introduction to Remote Control

Appendix A Printer Interface

Appendix B LAN Interface

Online Help

The Online Help is part of the firmware. It provides a quick access to the description of the instrument functions
and the remote control commands. For information on other topics refer to the Quick Start Guide, Operating
Manual and Service Manual provided in PDF format on CD or in the Internet. For detailed information on how
to use the Online Help, refer to the chapter "Basic Operations" in the Quick Start Guide.

Operating Manual

This manual is a supplement to the Quick Start Guide and is available in PDF format on the CD delivered with
the instrument. To retain the familiar structure that applies to all operating manuals of Rohde&Schwarz Test &
Measurement instruments, the chapters 1 and 3 exist, but only in form of references to the corresponding
Quick Start Guide chapters.

In this manual, all instrument functions are described in detail. For additional information on default settings
and parameters, refer to the data sheets. The set of measurement examples in the Quick Start Guide is
expanded by more advanced measurement examples. In addition to the brief introduction to remote control in
the Quick Start Guide, a description of the commands and programming examples is given. Information on
maintenance, instrument interfaces and error messages is also provided.

The manual includes the following chapters:

Chapter 1 Putting into Operation, see Quick Start Guide chapters 1 and 2

Chapter 2 Advanced Measurement Examples

1300.5053.12 0.1 E-2

Documentation Overview R&S ESL

Chapter 3 Manual Operation, see Quick Start Guide chapter 4

Chapter 4 Instrument Functions

Chapter 5 Remote Control - Basics

Chapter 6 Remote Control - Commands

Chapter 7 Remote Control - Programming Examples

Chapter 8 Maintenance

Chapter 9 Error Messages

This manual is delivered with the instrument on CD only. The printed manual can be ordered from Rohde &
Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.

Internet Site

The Internet site at: R&S ESL EMI Test Receiver provides the most up to date information on the R&S ESL.
The current operating manual at a time is available as printable PDF file in the download area. Also provided
for download are firmware updates including the associated release notes, instrument drivers, current data
sheets and application notes.

Service Manual

This manual is available in PDF format on the CD delivered with the instrument. It informs on how to check
compliance with rated specifications, on instrument function, repair, troubleshooting and fault elimination. It
contains all information required for repairing the R&S ESL by the replacement of modules. The manual
includes the following chapters:

Chapter 1 Performance Test

Chapter 2 Adjustment

Chapter 3 Repair

Chapter 4 Software Update / Installing Options

Chapter 5 Documents

Release Notes

The release notes describe the installation of the firmware, new and modified functions, eliminated problems,
and last minute changes to the documentation. The corresponding firmware version is indicated on the title
page of the release notes. The current release notes are provided in the Internet.

1300.5053.12 0.2 E-2

R&S ESL Conventions Used in the Documentation

Conventions Used in the Documentation

To visualize important information quickly and to recognize information types faster, a few conventions has
been introduced. The following character formats are used to emphasize words:

Bold All names of graphical user interface elements as

dialog boxes, softkeys, lists, options, buttons etc.

All names of user interface elements on the front
and rear panel as keys, connectors etc.

Courier All remote commands (apart from headings, see

below)

Capital letters All key names (front panel or keyboard)

The description of a softkey (Operating Manual and Online Help) always starts with the softkey name, and is
followed by explaining text and one or more remote control commands framed by two lines. Each remote
command is placed in a single line.

The description of remote control commands (Operating Manual and Online Help) always starts with the
command itself, and is followed by explaining text including an example, the characteristics and the mode
(standard or only with certain options) framed by two grey lines. The remote commands consist of
abbreviations to accelerate the procedure. All parts of the command that have to be entered are in capital
letters, the rest is added in small letters to complete the words and transport their meaning.

1300.5053.12 0.3 E-2

R&S ESL Putting into Operation

1 Putting into Operation

For details refer to the Quick Start Guide chapters 1, "Front and Rear Panel", and 2, "Preparing for
Use".

1300.5053.12 1.1 E-2

R&S ESL Advanced Measurement Examples

Contents of Chapter 2

2 Advanced Measurement Examples............................................................. 2.1

Test Setup .........................................................................................................................................2.2

Measurement of Harmonics ............................................................................................................2.2

High–Sensitivity Harmonics Measurements ...............................................................................2.4

Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals ..................................................................................2.6

Separating Signals by Selecting an Appropriate Resolution Bandwidth ....................................2.6

Intermodulation Measurements ..................................................................................................2.7

Measurement example – Measuring the R&S ESL's intrinsic intermodulation...............2.9

Measuring Signals in the Vicinity of Noise ..................................................................................2.13

Measurement example – Measuring level at low S/N ratios.........................................2.14

Noise Measurements .....................................................................................................................2.17

Measuring Noise Power Density...............................................................................................2.17

Measurement example – Measuring the intrinsic noise power density of the R&S ESL at

1 GHz and calculating the R&S ESL's noise figure ......................................................2.17

Measurement of Noise Power within a Transmission Channel ................................................2.19

Measurement example – Measuring the intrinsic noise of the R&S ESL at 1 GHz in a

1.23 MHz channel bandwidth with the channel power function....................................2.20

Measuring Phase Noise............................................................................................................2.24

Measurement example – Measuring the phase noise of a signal generator at a carrier

offset of 10 kHz .............................................................................................................2.24

Measurements on Modulated Signals ..........................................................................................2.25

Measuring Channel Power and Adjacent Channel Power .......................................................2.25

Measurement example 1 – ACPR measurement on an CDMA 2000 signal ................2.26

Measurement example 2 – Measuring adjacent channel power of a W–CDMA uplink

signal.............................................................................................................................2.32

Amplitude Distribution Measurements......................................................................................2.36

Measurement example – Measuring the APD and CCDF of white noise generated by

the R&S ESL .................................................................................................................2.36

Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30)...................................................................................2.39

Direct Measurements................................................................................................................2.39

Basic Measurement Example .......................................................................................2.39

DUTs with very Large Gain ...........................................................................................2.41

Frequency–Converting Measurements ....................................................................................2.42

Fixed LO Measurements...............................................................................................2.42

Image–Frequency Rejection (SSB, DSB).....................................................................2.42

1300.5053.12 I-2.1 E-2

R&S ESL Advanced Measurement Examples

2 Advanced Measurement Examples

This chapter explains how to operate the R&S ESL using typical measurements as examples.
Additional background information on the settings is given. Examples of more basic character are
provided in the Quick Start Guide, chapter 5, as an introduction. The following topics are included in the
Quick Start Guide:

• Performing a Level and Frequency Meaurement

• Measuring a Sinusoidal Signal

 Measuring the Level and Frequency Using Markers

 Measuring the Signal Frequency Using the Frequency Counter

• Measuring Harmonics of Sinusoidal Signals

 Measuring the Suppression of the First and Second Harmonic of an Input Signal

• Measuring Signal Spectra with Multiple Signals

 Separating Signals by Selecting the Resolution Bandwidth

 Measuring the Modulation Depth of an AM–Modulated Carrier (Span > 0)

 Measuring of AM–Modulated Signals

• Measurements with Zero Span

 Measuring the Power Characteristic of Burst Signals

 Measuring the Signal–to–Noise Ratio of Burst Signals

 Measurement of FM–Modulated Signals

• Storing and Loading Instrument Settings

 Storing an Instrument Configuration (without Traces)

 Storing Traces

 Loading an Instrument Configuration (with Traces)

 Configuring Automatic Loading

1300.5053.12 2.1 E-2

Test Setup R&S ESL

Test Setup

All of the following examples are based on the standard settings of the R&S ESL. These are set with
the PRESET key. A complete listing of the standard settings can be found in chapter "Instrument
Functions", section "Initializing the Configuration – PRESET Key".

In the following examples, a signal generator is used as a signal source. The RF output of the signal
generator is connected to the RF input of R&S ESL.

If a 65 MHz signal is required for the test setup, as an alternative to the signal generator, the internal 65
MHz reference generator can be used:

1. Switch on the internal reference generator.

 Press the SETUP key.

 Press the Service softkey.

 Press the Input RF/Cal/TG softkey, until Cal is highlighted.

The internal 65 MHz reference generator is now on. The R&S ESL's RF input is switched off.

2. Switch on the RF input again for normal operation of the R&S ESL. Two ways are possible:

 Press the PRESET key

 Press the SETUP key.

 Press the Service softkey.

 Press the Input RF/Cal/TG softkey, until RF is highlighted.

The internal signal path of the R&S ESL is switched back to the RF input in order to resume
normal operation.

Measurement of Harmonics

Measuring the harmonics of a signal is a frequent problem which can be solved best by means of a
spectrum analyzer. In general, every signal contains harmonics which are larger than others.
Harmonics are particularly critical regarding high–power transmitters such as transceivers because
large harmonics can interfere with other radio services.

Harmonics are generated by nonlinear characteristics. They can often be reduced by lowpass filters.
Since the spectrum analyzer has a nonlinear characteristic, e.g. in its first mixer, measures must be
taken to ensure that harmonics produced in the spectrum analyzer do not cause spurious results. If
necessary, the fundamental wave must be selectively attenuated with respect to the other harmonics
with a highpass filter.

When harmonics are being measured, the obtainable dynamic range depends on the second harmonic
intercept of the spectrum analyzer. The second harmonic intercept is the virtual input level at the RF
input mixer at which the level of the 2nd harmonic becomes equal to the level of the fundamental wave.
In practice, however, applying a level of this magnitude would damage the mixer. Nevertheless the
available dynamic range for measuring the harmonic distance of a DUT can be calculated relatively
easily using the second harmonic intercept.

nd

As shown in Fig. 2-1, the level of the 2
is reduced by 10 dB.

harmonic drops by 20 dB if the level of the fundamental wave

1300.5053.12 2.2 E-2

R&S ESL Measurement of Harmonics

2

Level display

/ dBm

0

5

40

30

2nd harmonic

ntercept point /

i

d

Bm

10

0

-10

-20

-30

-40

-50

-60

-70

-80

1st harmonic

1

1

-30

-20 0-10 10 20 30 40 50

2nd harmonic

2

1

RF level

/ dBm

Fig. 2-1 Extrapolation of the 1st and 2nd harmonics to the 2nd harmonic intercept at 40 dBm

The following formula for the obtainable harmonic distortion d

in dB is derived from the straight–line

2

equations and the given intercept point:

= S.H.I – PI(1)

d

2

d

2

= harmonic distortion

PI= mixer level/dBm

S.H.I. = second harmonic intercept

Note: The mixer level is the RF level applied to the RF input minus the set RF attenuation.

The formula for the internally generated level P1at the 2nd harmonic in dBm is:

P

= 2PI– S.H.I. (2)

1

The lower measurement limit for the harmonic is the noise floor of the spectrum analyzer. The harmonic
of the measured DUT should – if sufficiently averaged by means of a video filter – be at least 4 dB
above the noise floor so that the measurement error due to the input noise is less than 1 dB.

The following rules for measuring high harmonic ratios can be derived:

 Select the smallest possible IF bandwidth for a minimal noise floor.

 Select an RF attenuation which is high enough to just measure the harmonic ratio.

The maximum harmonic distortion is obtained if the level of the harmonic equals the intrinsic noise level
of the receiver. The level applied to the mixer, according to (2), is:

2/ IPdBmP

noise

P

=

I

+

(3)

At a resolution bandwidth of 10 Hz (noise level –143 dBm, S.H.I. = 40 dBm), the optimum mixer level is
– 51.5 dBm. According to (1) a maximum measurable harmonic distortion of 91.5 dB minus a minimum
S/N ratio of 4 dB is obtained.

1300.5053.12 2.3 E-2

Measurement of Harmonics R&S ESL

Note: If the harmonic emerges from noise sufficiently (approx. >15 dB), it is easy to check (by

changing the RF attenuation) whether the harmonics originate from the DUT or are generated
internally by the spectrum analyzer. If a harmonic originates from the DUT, its level remains
constant if the RF attenuation is increased by 10 dB. Only the displayed noise is increased by
10 dB due to the additional attenuation. If the harmonic is exclusively generated by the
spectrum analyzer, the level of the harmonic is reduced by 20 dB or is lost in noise. If both – the
DUT and the spectrum analyzer – contribute to the harmonic, the reduction in the harmonic
level is correspondingly smaller.

High–Sensitivity Harmonics Measurements

If harmonics have very small levels, the resolution bandwidth required to measure them must be
reduced considerably. The sweep time is, therefore, also increased considerably. In this case, the
measurement of individual harmonics is carried out with the R&S ESL set to a small span. Only the
frequency range around the harmonics will then be measured with a small resolution bandwidth.

Signal generator settings (e.g. R&S SMU):

Frequency: 128 MHz

Level: – 25 dBm

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

 Press the PRESET key.

The R&S ESL is set to its default state.

2. Set the center frequency to 128 MHz and the span to 100 kHz.

 Press the FREQ key.

The frequency menu is displayed.

 In the dialog box, enter 128 using the numeric keypad and confirm with the MHz key.

 Press the SPAN key.

 In the dialog box, enter 100 using the numeric keypad and confirm with the kHz key.

The R&S ESL displays the reference signal with a span of 100 kHz and resolution bandwidth of
3 kHz.

3. Switching on the marker.

 Press the MKR key.

The marker is positioned on the trace maximum.

4. Set the measured signal frequency and the measured level as reference values

 Press the Phase Noise/Ref Fixed softkey.

The position of the marker becomes the reference point. The reference point level is indicated
by a horizontal line, the reference point frequency with a vertical line. At the same time, the
delta marker 2 is switched on.

 Press the Ref Fixed softkey.

1300.5053.12 2.4 E-2

R&S ESL Measurement of Harmonics

The mode changes from phase noise measurement to reference fixed, the marker readout

hanges from dB/Hz to dB.

c

Fig. 2-2 Fundamental wave and the frequency and level reference point

5. Make the step size for the center frequency equal to the signal frequency

 Press the FREQ key.

The frequency menu is displayed.

 Press the CF–Stepsize softkey and press the = Marker softkey in the submenu.

The step size for the center frequency is now equal to the marker frequency.

6. Set the center frequency to the 2

nd

harmonic of the signal

 Press the FREQ key.

The frequency menu is displayed.

 Press the UPARROW key once.

nd

The center frequency is set to the 2

7. Place the delta marker on the 2

nd

harmonic.

harmonic.

 Press the MKR–> key.

 Press the Peak softkey.

nd

The delta marker moves to the maximum of the 2

harmonic. The displayed level result is

relative to the reference point level (= fundamental wave level).

1300.5053.12 2.5 E-2

Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals R&S ESL

Fig. 2-3 Measuring the level difference between the fundamental wave (= reference point
level) and the 2

The other harmonics are measured with steps 5 and 6, the center frequency being incremented or
decremented in steps of 128 MHz using the UPARROW or DNARROW key.

nd

harmonic

Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals

Separating Signals by Selecting an Appropriate Resolution Bandwidth

A basic feature of a spectrum analyzer is being able to separate the spectral components of a mixture
of signals. The resolution at which the individual components can be separated is determined by the
resolution bandwidth. Selecting a resolution bandwidth that is too large may make it impossible to
distinguish between spectral components, i.e. they are displayed as a single component.

An RF sinusoidal signal is displayed by means of the passband characteristic of the resolution filter
(RBW) that has been set. Its specified bandwidth is the 3 dB bandwidth of the filter.

Two signals with the same amplitude can be resolved if the resolution bandwidth is smaller than or
equal to the frequency spacing of the signal. If the resolution bandwidth is equal to the frequency
spacing, the spectrum display screen shows a level drop of 3 dB precisely in the center of the two
signals. Decreasing the resolution bandwidth makes the level drop larger, which thus makes the
individual signals clearer.

If there are large level differences between signals, the resolution is determined by selectivity as well as
by the resolution bandwidth that has been selected. The measure of selectivity used for spectrum
analyzers is the ratio of the 60 dB bandwidth to the 3 dB bandwidth (= shape factor).

For the R&S ESL, the shape factor for bandwidths is < 5, i.e. the 60 dB bandwidth of the 30 kHz filter is
< 150 kHz.

1300.5053.12 2.6 E-2

R&S ESL Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals

The higher spectral resolution with smaller bandwidths is won by longer sweep times for the same

pan. The sweep time has to allow the resolution filters to settle during a sweep at all signal levels and

s
frequencies to be displayed. It is given by the following formula.

Span/RBWkSWT •= (4)

SWT = max. sweep time for correct measurement

k = factor depending on type of resolution filter

= 1 for digital IF filters

Span = frequency display range

RBW = resolution bandwidth

2

If the resolution bandwidth is reduced by a factor of 3, the sweep time is increased by a factor of 9.

Note: The impact of the video bandwidth on the sweep time is not taken into account in (4). For the

formula to be applied, the video bandwidth must be 3 x the resolution bandwidth.

FFT filters can be used for resolution bandwidths up to 30 kHz. Like digital filters, they have a shape
factor of less than 5 up to 30 kHz. For FFT filters, however, the sweep time is given by the following
formula:



SWT = k

span/RBW (5)

If the resolution bandwidth is reduced by a factor of 3, the sweep time is increased by a factor of 3 only.

Intermodulation Measurements

If several signals are applied to a transmission two–port device with nonlinear characteristic,
intermodulation products appear at its output by the sums and differences of the signals. The nonlinear
characteristic produces harmonics of the useful signals which intermodulate at the characteristic. The
intermodulation products of lower order have a special effect since their level is largest and they are
near the useful signals. The intermodulation product of third order causes the highest interference. It is
the intermodulation product generated from one of the useful signals and the 2nd harmonic of the
second useful signal in case of two–tone modulation.

The frequencies of the intermodulation products are above and below the useful signals. Fig. 2-4 shows
intermodulation products P

and PI2 generated by the two useful signals PU1 and PU2.

I1

Fig. 2-4 Intermodulation products PU1 and PU2

1300.5053.12 2.7 E-2

Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals R&S ESL

2

60

2

The intermodulation product at f

ignal P

s
P

.

2

U

the intermodulation product at f

,

1

U

= 2 x fu1 – fu2 (6)

f

i1

= 2 x fu2 – fu1 (7)

f

i2

is generated by mixing the 2nd harmonic of useful signal PU2 and

I2

y mixing the 2nd harmonic of useful signal P

b

1

I

nd signal

a

1

U

The level of the intermodulation products depends on the level of the useful signals. If the two useful
signals are increased by 1 dB, the level of the intermodulation products increases by 3 dB, which
means that spacing a

between intermodulation signals and useful signals are reduced by 2 dB. This is

D3

illustrated in Fig. 2-5.

Fig. 2-5 Dependence of intermodulation level on useful signal level

The useful signals at the two–port output increase proportionally with the input level as long as the two–
port is in the linear range. A level change of 1 dB at the input causes a level change of 1 dB at the
output. Beyond a certain input level, the two–port goes into compression and the output level stops
increasing. The intermodulation products of the third order increase three times as much as the useful
signals. The intercept point is the fictitious level where the two lines intersect. It cannot be measured
directly since the useful level is previously limited by the maximum two–port output power.

It can be calculated from the known line slopes and the measured spacing a

at a given level

D3

according to the following formula.

a

D

IP

rd

The 3

order intercept point (TOI), for example, is calculated for an intermodulation of 60 dB and an

input level P

IP dBm dBm3

3

3

=+

P

N

(8)

of –20 dBm according to the following formula:

U

20 10= +  =( ) (9)

1300.5053.12 2.8 E-2

R&S ESL Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals

Measurement example – Measuring the R&S ESL's intrinsic intermodulation

Test setup:

Signal

G

enerator 1

Coupler

[- 6 dB]

Signal

Generator 2

R&S ESL

Signal generator settings (e.g. R&S SMU):

Signal generator 1 –4 dBm 999.7 MHz

Signal generator 2 –4 dBm 1000.3 MHz

Level Frequency

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default settings.

 Press the PRESET key.

The R&S ESL is in its default state.

2. Set center frequency to 1 GHz and the frequency span to 3 MHz.

 Press the FREQ key and enter 1 GHz.

 Press the SPAN key and enter 3 MHz.

3. Set the reference level to –10 dBm and RF attenuation to 0 dB.

 Press the AMPT key and enter –10 dBm.

 Press the RF Atten Manual softkey and enter 0 dB.

4. Set the resolution bandwidth to 10 kHz.

 Press the BW key.

 Press the Res BW Manual softkey and enter 10 kHz.

The noise is reduced, the trace is smoothed further and the intermodulation products can be
clearly seen.

 Press the Video BW Manual softkey and enter 1 kHz.

rd

5. Measuring intermodulation by means of the 3

order intercept measurement function

 Press the MEAS key.

 Press the TOI softkey.

1300.5053.12 2.9 E-2

Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals R&S ESL

The R&S ESL activates four markers for measuring the intermodulation distance. Two markers

re positioned on the useful signals and two on the intermodulation products. The 3

a

d

r

rder

o
intercept is calculated from the level difference between the useful signals and the
intermodulation products. It is then displayed on the screen:

Fig. 2-6 Result of intrinsic intermodulation measurement on the R&S ESL. The 3rd order
intercept (TOI) is displayed at the top right corner of the grid.

The level of a spectrum analyzer's intrinsic intermodulation products depends on the RF level of the
useful signals at the input mixer. When the RF attenuation is added, the mixer level is reduced and
the intermodulation distance is increased. With an additional RF attenuation of 10 dB, the levels of
the intermodulation products are reduced by 20 dB. The noise level is, however, increased by 10
dB.

6. Increasing RF attenuation to 10 dB to reduce intermodulation products.

 Press the AMPT key.

 Press the RF Atten Manual softkey and enter 10 dB.

The R&S ESL's intrinsic intermodulation products disappear below the noise floor.

1300.5053.12 2.10 E-2

R&S ESL Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals

Fig. 2-7 If the RF attenuation is increased, the R&S ESL's intrinsic intermodulation products
disappear below the noise floor.

Calculation method:

The method used by the R&S ESL to calculate the intercept point takes the average useful signal level

in dBm and calculates the intermodulation d3in dB as a function of the average value of the levels of

P

u

the two intermodulation products. The third order intercept (TOI) is then calculated as follows:

TOI/dBm = ½ d

3

+ P

u

Intermodulation– free dynamic range

The Intermodulation – free dynamic range, i.e. the level range in which no internal intermodulation
products are generated if two–tone signals are measured, is determined by the 3

rd

order intercept point,
the phase noise and the thermal noise of the spectrum analyzer. At high signal levels, the range is
determined by intermodulation products. At low signal levels, intermodulation products disappear below
the noise floor, i.e. the noise floor and the phase noise of the spectrum analyzer determine the range.
The noise floor and the phase noise depend on the resolution bandwidth that has been selected. At the
smallest resolution bandwidth, the noise floor and phase noise are at a minimum and so the maximum
range is obtained. However, a large increase in sweep time is required for small resolution bandwidths.
It is, therefore, best to select the largest resolution bandwidth possible to obtain the range that is
required. Since phase noise decreases as the carrier–offset increases, its influence decreases with
increasing frequency offset from the useful signals.

The following diagrams illustrate the intermodulation–free dynamic range as a function of the selected
bandwidth and of the level at the input mixer (= signal level – set RF attenuation) at different useful
signal offsets.

1300.5053.12 2.11 E-2

Measuring the Spectra of Complex Signals R&S ESL

Distortion free Dynamic Range

D

y

n

r

a

n

g

e

/

d

B

-40

-50

-60

-70

-80

-90

-100

-110

-120

-60 -50 -40 -30 -20 -10

RWB = 1 kHz

RWB = 100 Hz

RWB = 10 Hz

Fig. 2-8 Intermodulation–free range of the R&S ESL as a function of level at the input mixer and the
set resolution bandwidth (useful signal offset = 1 MHz, DANL = –145 dBm /Hz, TOI = 15 dBm; typical
values at 2 GHz)

(1 MHz carrier offset

)

T.O.I.

Thermal Noise
+ Phase Noise

Mixer level /dBm

The optimum mixer level, i.e. the level at which the intermodulation distance is at its maximum, depends
on the bandwidth. At a resolution bandwidth of 10 Hz, it is approx. –35 dBm and at 1 kHz increases to
approx. –30 dBm.

Phase noise has a considerable influence on the intermodulation–free range at carrier offsets between
10 and 100 kHz (Fig. 2-9). At greater bandwidths, the influence of the phase noise is greater than it
would be with small bandwidths. The optimum mixer level at the bandwidths under consideration
becomes almost independent of bandwidth and is approx. –40 dBm.

Distortion free Dynamic Range

D

y

n

.

r

a

n

g

e

/

d

B

-40

-50

-60

-70

-80

-90

-100

-110

-120

-60 -50 -40 -30 -20 -10

RBW = 1 kHz

RBW = 100 Hz

RBW = 10 Hz

(10 to 100 kHz carrier offset

)

TOI

Thermal Noise
+ Phase Noise

Mixer level /dBm

Fig. 2-9 Intermodulation–free dynamic range of the R&S ESL as a function of level at the input
mixer and of the selected resolution bandwidth (useful signal offset = 10 to 100 kHz, DANL = –145 dBm
/Hz, TOI = 15 dBm; typical values at 2 GHz).

1300.5053.12 2.12 E-2

R&S ESL Measuring Signals in the Vicinity of Noise

Note: If the intermodulation products of a DUT with a very high dynamic range are to be measured

and the resolution bandwidth to be used is therefore very small, it is best to measure the levels
of the useful signals and those of the intermodulation products separately using a small span.
The measurement time will be reduced– in particular if the offset of the useful signals is large.
To find signals reliably when frequency span is small, it is best to synchronize the signal
sources and the R&S ESL.

Measuring Signals in the Vicinity of Noise

The minimum signal level a spectrum analyzer can measure is limited by its intrinsic noise. Small
signals can be swamped by noise and therefore cannot be measured. For signals that are just above
the intrinsic noise, the accuracy of the level measurement is influenced by the intrinsic noise of the
spectrum analyzer.

The displayed noise level of a spectrum analyzer depends on its noise figure, the selected RF
attenuation, the selected reference level, the selected resolution and video bandwidth and the detector.
The effect of the different parameters is explained in the following.

Impact of the RF attenuation setting

The sensitivity of a spectrum analyzer is directly influenced by the selected RF attenuation. The highest
sensitivity is obtained at a RF attenuation of 0 dB. The attenuation can be set in 10 dB steps up to 70
dB. Each additional 10 dB step reduces the sensitivity by 10 dB, i.e. the displayed noise is increased by
10 dB.

Impact of the resolution bandwidth

The sensitivity of a spectrum analyzer also directly depends on the selected bandwidth. The highest
sensitivity is obtained at the smallest bandwidth (for the R&S ESL: 10 Hz, for FFT filtering: 1 Hz). If the
bandwidth is increased, the reduction in sensitivity is proportional to the change in bandwidth. The
R&S ESL has bandwidth settings in 1, 3, 10 sequence. Increasing the bandwidth by a factor of 3
increases the displayed noise by approx. 5 dB (4.77 dB precisely). If the bandwidth is increased by a
factor of 10, the displayed noise increases by a factor of 10, i.e. 10 dB.

Impact of the video bandwidth

The displayed noise of a spectrum analyzer is also influenced by the selected video bandwidth. If the
video bandwidth is considerably smaller than the resolution bandwidth, noise spikes are suppressed,
i.e. the trace becomes much smoother. The level of a sinewave signal is not influenced by the video
bandwidth. A sinewave signal can therefore be freed from noise by using a video bandwidth that is
small compared with the resolution bandwidth, and thus be measured more accurately.

Impact of the detector

Noise is evaluated differently by the different detectors. The noise display is therefore influenced by the
choice of detector. Sinewave signals are weighted in the same way by all detectors, i.e. the level
display for a sinewave RF signal does not depend on the selected detector, provided that the signal–to–
noise ratio is high enough. The measurement accuracy for signals in the vicinity of intrinsic spectrum
analyzer noise is also influenced by the detector which has been selected. For details on the detectors
of the R&S ESL refer to chapter "Instrument Functions", section "Detector overview" or the Online Help.

1300.5053.12 2.13 E-2

Measuring Signals in the Vicinity of Noise R&S ESL

Measurement example – Measuring level at low S/N ratios

The example shows the different factors influencing the S/N ratio.

Signal generator settings (e.g. R&S SMU):

requency: 128 MHz

F

Level: – 80 dBm

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

 Press the PRESET key.

The R&S ESL is in its default state.

2. Set the center frequency to 128 MHz and the frequency span to 100 MHz.

 Press the FREQ key and enter 128 MHz.

 Press the SPAN key and enter 100 MHz.

3. Set the RF attenuation to 60 dB to attenuate the input signal or to increase the intrinsic noise.

 Press the AMPT key.

 Press the RF Atten Manual softkey and enter 60 dB.

The RF attenuation indicator is marked with an asterisk (*Att 60 dB) to show that it is no longer
coupled to the reference level. The high input attenuation reduces the reference signal which
can no longer be detected in noise.

Fig. 2-10 Sinewave signal with low S/N ratio. The signal is measured with the auto peak
detector and is completely hidden in the intrinsic noise of the R&S ESL.

1300.5053.12 2.14 E-2

R&S ESL Measuring Signals in the Vicinity of Noise

4. To suppress noise spikes the trace can be averaged.

Press the TRACE key.



 Press the Trace Mode key.

 Press the Average softkey.

The traces of consecutive sweeps are averaged. To perform averaging, the R&S ESL
automatically switches on the sample detector. The RF signal, therefore, can be more clearly
distinguished from noise.

Fig. 2-11 RF sinewave signal with low S/N ratio if the trace is averaged.

5. Instead of trace averaging, a video filter that is narrower than the resolution bandwidth can be

selected.

 Press the Trace Mode key.

 Press the Clear Write softkey.

 Press the BW key.

 Press the Video BW Manual softkey and enter 10 kHz.

The RF signal can be more clearly distinguished from noise.

1300.5053.12 2.15 E-2

Measuring Signals in the Vicinity of Noise R&S ESL

Fig. 2-12 RF sinewave signal with low S/N ratio if a smaller video bandwidth is selected.

6. By reducing the resolution bandwidth by a factor of 10, the noise is reduced by 10 dB.

 Press the Res BW Manual softkey and enter 300 kHz.

The displayed noise is reduced by approx. 10 dB. The signal, therefore, emerges from noise by
about 10 dB. Compared to the previous setting, the video bandwidth has remained the same,
i.e. it has increased relative to the smaller resolution bandwidth. The averaging effect of the
video bandwidth is therefore reduced. The trace will be noisier.

Fig. 2-13 Reference signal at a smaller resolution bandwidth

1300.5053.12 2.16 E-2

R&S ESL Noise Measurements

Noise Measurements

oise measurements play an important role in spectrum analysis. Noise e.g. affects the sensitivity of

N
radio communication systems and their components.

Noise power is specified either as the total power in the transmission channel or as the power referred
to a bandwidth of 1 Hz. The sources of noise are, for example, amplifier noise or noise generated by
oscillators used for the frequency conversion of useful signals in receivers or transmitters. The noise at
the output of an amplifier is determined by its noise figure and gain.

The noise of an oscillator is determined by phase noise near the oscillator frequency and by thermal
noise of the active elements far from the oscillator frequency. Phase noise can mask weak signals near
the oscillator frequency and make them impossible to detect.

Measuring Noise Power Density

To measure noise power referred to a bandwidth of 1 Hz at a certain frequency, the R&S ESL provides
marker function. This marker function calculates the noise power density from the measured marker
level.

Measurement example – Measuring the intrinsic noise power density of the R&S ESL at 1 GHz and calculating the R&S ESL's noise figure

Test setup:

 Connect no signal to the RF input; terminate RF input with 50 O.

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

 Press the PRESET key.

The R&S ESL is in its default state.

2. Set the center frequency to 1.234 GHz and the span to 1 MHz.

 Press the FREQ key and enter 1.234 GHz.

 Press the SPAN key and enter 1 MHz.

3. Switch on the marker and set the marker frequency to 1.234 GHz.

 Press the MKR key and enter 1.234 GHz.

4. Switch on the noise marker function.

 Switch on the Noise Meas softkey.

The R&S ESL displays the noise power at 1 GHz in dBm (1 Hz).

Note: Since noise is random, a sufficiently long measurement time has to be selected to obtain stable

measurement results. This can be achieved by averaging the trace or by selecting a very small
video bandwidth relative to the resolution bandwidth.

1300.5053.12 2.17 E-2

Noise Measurements R&S ESL

5. The measurement result is stabilized by averaging the trace.

Press the TRACE key.



 Press the Trace Mode key.

 Press the Average softkey.

The R&S ESL performs sliding averaging over 10 traces from consecutive sweeps. The
measurement result becomes more stable.

Conversion to other reference bandwidths

The result of the noise measurement can be referred to other bandwidths by simple conversion. This is
done by adding 10  log (BW) to the measurement result, BW being the new reference bandwidth.

Example

A noise power of –150 dBm (1 Hz) is to be referred to a bandwidth of 1 kHz.

= –150 + 10 * log (1000) = –150 +30 = –120 dBm (1 kHz)

P

[1kHz]

Calculation method for noise power

If the noise marker is switched on, the R&S ESL automatically activates the sample detector. The video
bandwidth is set to 1/10 of the selected resolution bandwidth (RBW).

To calculate the noise, the R&S ESL takes an average over 17 adjacent pixels (the pixel on which the
marker is positioned and 8 pixels to the left, 8 pixels to the right of the marker). The measurement result
is stabilized by video filtering and averaging over 17 pixels.

Since both video filtering and averaging over 17 trace points is performed in the log display mode, the
result would be 2.51 dB too low (difference between logarithmic noise average and noise power). The
R&S ESL, therefore, corrects the noise figure by 2.51 dB.

To standardize the measurement result to a bandwidth of 1 Hz, the result is also corrected by –10 * log
(RBW

), with RBW

noise

being the power bandwidth of the selected resolution filter (RBW).

noise

Detector selection

The noise power density is measured in the default setting with the sample detector and using
averaging. Other detectors that can be used to perform a measurement giving true results are the
average detector or the RMS detector. If the average detector is used, the linear video voltage is
averaged and displayed as a pixel. If the RMS detector is used, the squared video voltage is averaged
and displayed as a pixel. The averaging time depends on the selected sweep time (=SWT/501). An
increase in the sweep time gives a longer averaging time per pixel and thus stabilizes the measurement
result. The R&S ESL automatically corrects the measurement result of the noise marker display
depending on the selected detector (+1.05 dB for the average detector, 0 d for the RMS detector). It is
assumed that the video bandwidth is set to at least three times the resolution bandwidth. While the
average or RMS detector is being switched on, the R&S ESL sets the video bandwidth to a suitable
value.

The Pos Peak, Neg Peak, Auto Peak and Quasi Peak detectors are not suitable for measuring noise
power density.

Determining the noise figure

The noise figure of amplifiers or of the R&S ESL alone can be obtained from the noise power display.
Based on the known thermal noise power of a 50  resistor at room temperature (–174 dBm (1Hz)) and
the measured noise power P

NF = P

+ 174 – g,

noise

the noise figure (NF) is obtained as follows:

noise

where g = gain of DUT in dB

1300.5053.12 2.18 E-2

R&S ESL Noise Measurements

Correction

Example

The measured internal noise power of the R&S ESL at an attenuation of 0 dB is found to be –143
dBm/1 Hz. The noise figure of the R&S ESL is obtained as follows

NF = –143 + 174 = 31 dB

Note: If noise power is measured at the output of an amplifier, for example, the sum of the internal

noise power and the noise power at the output of the DUT is measured. The noise power of the
DUT can be obtained by subtracting the internal noise power from the total power (subtraction
of linear noise powers). By means of the following diagram, the noise level of the DUT can be
estimated from the level difference between the total and the internal noise level.

0

1

factor in dB

-

2

-

-3

-4

-5

-6

-7

-8

-9

-10
012345678910111213141516

Total powe r/intrinsic noise po wer in dB

Fig. 2-14 Correction factor for measured noise power as a function of the ratio of total power to the
intrinsic noise power of the spectrum analyzer

Measurement of Noise Power within a Transmission Channel

Noise in any bandwidth can be measured with the channel power measurement functions. Thus the
noise power in a communication channel can be determined, for example. If the noise spectrum within
the channel bandwidth is flat, the noise marker from the previous example can be used to determine the
noise power in the channel by considering the channel bandwidth. If, however, phase noise and noise
that normally increases towards the carrier is dominant in the channel to be measured, or if there are
discrete spurious signals in the channel, the channel power measurement method must be used to
obtain correct measurement results.

1300.5053.12 2.19 E-2

Noise Measurements R&S ESL

Measurement example – Measuring the intrinsic noise of the R&S ESL at 1 GHz in a

1.23 MHz channel bandwidth with the channel power function

Test setup:

 Leave the RF input of the R&S ESL open–circuited or terminate it with 50 .

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

 Press the PRESET key.

The R&S ESL is in its default state.

2. Set the center frequency to 1 GHz and the span to 1 MHz.

 Press the FREQ key and enter 1 GHz.

 Press the SPAN key and enter 2 MHz.

3. To obtain maximum sensitivity, set RF attenuation on the R&S ESL to 0 dB.

 Press the AMPT key.

 Press the RF Atten Manual softkey and enter 0 dB.

4. Switch on and configure the channel power measurement.

 Press the MEAS key.

 Press the CP, ACP, MC–ACP softkey.

The R&S ESL activates the channel or adjacent channel power measurement according to the
currently set configuration.

 Press the CP/ACP Config softkey.

The submenu for configuring the channel is displayed.

 Press the Channel Settings softkey.

The submenu for channel settings is displayed.

 Press the Channel Bandwidth softkey and enter 1.23 MHz.

The R&S ESL displays the 1.23 MHz channel as two vertical lines which are symmetrical to the
center frequency.

 Press the Adjust Settings softkey.

The settings for the frequency span, the bandwidth (RBW and VBW) and the detector are
automatically set to the optimum values required for the measurement.

1300.5053.12 2.20 E-2

R&S ESL Noise Measurements

Fig. 2-15 Measurement of the R&S ESL's intrinsic noise power in a 1.23 MHz channel
bandwidth.

5. Stabilizing the measurement result by increasing the sweep time

 Press the E key twice.

The main menu for channel and adjacent channel power measurement is displayed.

 Press the Sweep Time softkey and enter 1 s.

The trace becomes much smoother because of the RMS detector and the channel power
measurement display is much more stable.

Method of calculating the channel power

When measuring the channel power, the R&S ESL integrates the linear power which corresponds to the
levels of the pixels within the selected channel. The spectrum analyzer uses a resolution bandwidth
which is far smaller than the channel bandwidth. When sweeping over the channel, the channel filter is
formed by the passband characteristics of the resolution bandwidth (see Fig. 2-16).

1300.5053.12 2.21 E-2

Noise Measurements R&S ESL

-3 dB

Resolution filter

Sweep

Channel bandwith

Fig. 2-16 Approximating the channel filter by sweeping with a small resolution bandwidth

The following steps are performed:

• The linear power of all the trace pixels within the channel is calculated.

(Li/10)

= 10

P

i

where P

L

= power of the trace pixel i

i

= displayed level of trace point i

i

• The powers of all trace pixels within the channel are summed up and the sum is divided by the
number of trace pixels in the channel.

• The result is multiplied by the quotient of the selected channel bandwidth and the noise bandwidth
of the resolution filter (RBW).

Since the power calculation is performed by integrating the trace within the channel bandwidth, this
method is also called the IBW method (I

ntegration Bandwidth method).

Parameter settings

For selection of the sweep time, see next section. For details on the parameter settings refer to chapter
"Instrument Functions", section "Settings of the CP / ACP test parameters" or the Online Help.

Sweep time selection

The number of A/D converter values, N, used to calculate the power, is defined by the sweep time. The
time per trace pixel for power measurements is directly proportional to the selected sweep time.

If the sample detector is used, it is best to select the smallest sweep time possible for a given span and
resolution bandwidth. The minimum time is obtained if the setting is coupled. This means that the time
per measurement is minimal. Extending the measurement time does not have any advantages as the
number of samples for calculating the power is defined by the number of trace pixels in the channel.

If the RMS detector is used, the repeatability of the measurement results can be influenced by the
selection of sweep times. Repeatability is increased at longer sweep times.

Repeatability can be estimated from the following diagram:

1300.5053.12 2.22 E-2

R&S ESL Noise Measurements

max. error/dB

0

9

5 % Confidence

l

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

evel

99 % Confidence

level

3

10

100

1000

10000

Number of samples

100000

Fig. 2-17 Repeatability of channel power measurements as a function of the number of samples
used for power calculation

The curves in Fig. 2-17 indicate the repeatability obtained with a probability of 95% and 99% depending
on the number of samples used.

The repeatability with 600 samples is ± 0.5 dB. This means that – if the sample detector and a channel
bandwidth over the whole diagram (channel bandwidth = span) is used – the measured value lies within
± 0.5 dB of the true value with a confidence level of 99%.

If the RMS detector is used, the number of samples can be estimated as follows:

Since only uncorrelated samples contribute to the RMS value, the number of samples can be calculated
from the sweep time and the resolution bandwidth.

Samples can be assumed to be uncorrelated if sampling is performed at intervals of 1/RBW. The
number of uncorrelated samples is calculated as follows:

= SWT RBW (N

N

decorr

The number of uncorrelated samples per trace pixel is obtained by dividing N

means uncorrelated samples)

decorr

by 501 (= pixels per

decorr

trace).

Example

At a resolution bandwidth of 30 kHz and a sweep time of 100 ms, 3000 uncorrelated samples are
obtained. If the channel bandwidth is equal to the frequency display range, i.e. all trace pixels are used
for the channel power measurement, a repeatability of 0.2 dB with a probability of 99% is the estimate
that can be derived from Fig. 2-17.

1300.5053.12 2.23 E-2

Noise Measurements R&S ESL

Measuring Phase Noise

The R&S ESL has an easy–to–use marker function for phase noise measurements. This marker
function indicates the phase noise of an RF oscillator at any carrier in dBc in a bandwidth of 1 Hz.

Measurement example – Measuring the phase noise of a signal generator at a carrier offset of 10 kHz

Test setup:

Signal

generator

Signal generator settings (e.g. R&S SMU):

Frequency: 100 MHz

Level: 0 dBm

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

 Press the PRESET key.

R&S ESL is in its default state.

2. Set the center frequency to 100 MHz and the span to 50 kHz.

 Press the FREQ key and enter 100 MHz.

 Press the SPAN key and enter 50 kHz.

3. Set the R&S ESL's reference level to 0 dBm (=signal generator level).

 Press the AMPT key and enter 0 dBm.

R&S ESL

4. Enable phase noise measurement.

 Press the MKR key.

 Press the Phase Noise/Ref Fixed softkey.

The R&S ESL activates phase noise measurement. Marker 1 (=main marker) and marker 2 (=
delta marker) are positioned on the signal maximum. The position of the marker is the
reference (level and frequency) for the phase noise measurement. A horizontal line represents
the level of the reference point and a vertical line the frequency of the reference point. The
dialog box for the delta marker is displayed so that the frequency offset at which the phase
noise is to be measured can be entered directly.

5. Set the frequency offset to 10 kHz for determining phase noise.

 Enter 10 kHz.

1300.5053.12 2.24 E-2

R&S ESL Measurements on Modulated Signals

The R&S ESL displays the phase noise at a frequency offset of 10 kHz. The magnitude of the

hase noise in dBc/Hz is displayed in the delta marker output field at the top right of the screen

p
(Phn2).

6. Stabilize the measurement result by activating trace averaging.

Press the TRACE key.



 Press the Trace Mode key.

 Press the Average softkey.

Fig. 2-18 Measuring phase noise with the phase–noise marker function

The frequency offset can be varied by moving the marker with the rotary knob or by entering a
new frequency offset as a number.

Measurements on Modulated Signals

For measurements on AM and FM signals refer to the Quick Start Guide, chapter 5, "Basic
Measurements Examples".

Measuring Channel Power and Adjacent Channel Power

Measuring channel power and adjacent channel power is one of the most important tasks in the field of
digital transmission for a spectrum analyzer with the necessary test routines. While, theoretically,
channel power could be measured at highest accuracy with a power meter, its low selectivity means
that it is not suitable for measuring adjacent channel power as an absolute value or relative to the
transmit channel power. The power in the adjacent channels can only be measured with a selective
power meter.

1300.5053.12 2.25 E-2

Measurements on Modulated Signals R&S ESL

A spectrum analyzer cannot be classified as a true power meter, because it displays the IF envelope

oltage. However, it is calibrated such as to correctly display the power of a pure sinewave signal

v
irrespective of the selected detector. This calibration cannot be applied for non–sinusoidal signals.
Assuming that the digitally modulated signal has a Gaussian amplitude distribution, the signal power
within the selected resolution bandwidth can be obtained using correction factors. These correction
factors are normally used by the spectrum analyzer's internal power measurement routines in order to
determine the signal power from IF envelope measurements. These factors apply if and only if the

ssumption of a Gaussian amplitude distribution is correct.

a

Apart from this common method, the R&S ESL also has a true power detector, i.e. an RMS detector. It
correctly displays the power of the test signal within the selected resolution bandwidth irrespective of
the amplitude distribution, without additional correction factors being required. The absolute
measurement uncertainty of the R&S ESL is < 1.5 dB and a relative measurement uncertainty of < 0.5
dB (each with a confidence level of 95%).

There are two possible methods for measuring channel and adjacent channel power with a spectrum
analyzer:

• IBW method (I

ntegration Bandwidth Method)
The spectrum analyzer measures with a resolution bandwidth that is less than the channel
bandwidth and integrates the level values of the trace versus the channel bandwidth. This method
is described in section "Method of calculating the channel power".

• Using a channel filter
For a detailed description, refer to the following section.

Measurement using a channel filter

In this case, the spectrum analyzer makes zero span measurements using an IF filter that corresponds
to the channel bandwidth. The power is measured at the output of the IF filter. Until now, this method
has not been used for spectrum analyzers, because channel filters were not available and the
resolution bandwidths, optimized for the sweep, did not have a sufficient selectivity. The method was
reserved for special receivers optimized for a particular transmission method. It is available in R&S
FSQ, FSU, FSP, FSL and ESL series.

The R&S ESL has test routines for simple channel and adjacent channel power measurements. These
routines give quick results without any complex or tedious setting procedures.

Measurement example 1 – ACPR measurement on an CDMA 2000 signal

Test setup:

Signal

generator

R&S ESL

Signal generator settings (e.g. R&S SMU):

Frequency: 850 MHz

Level: 0 dBm

Modulation: CDMA 2000

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

1300.5053.12 2.26 E-2

R&S ESL Measurements on Modulated Signals

 Press the PRESET key.

he R&S ESL is in its default state.

T

2. Set the center frequency to 850 MHz and span to 4 MHz.

 Press the FREQ key and enter 850 MHz.

 Press the SPAN key and enter 4 MHz.

3. Set the reference level to +10 dBm.

 Press the AMPT key and enter 10 dBm.

4. Configuring the adjacent channel power for the CDMA 2000 MC1.

 Press the MEAS key.

 Press the CP, ACP, MC–ACP softkey.

 Press the CP / ACP Standard softkey.

 In the standards list, mark CDMA 2000 MC1 using the rotary knob or the arrow keys and confirm

pressing the rotary knob or the ENTER key.

The R&S ESL sets the channel configuration according to the 2000 MC1 standard for mobile
stations with 2 adjacent channels above and below the transmit channel. The spectrum is
displayed in the upper part of the screen, the numeric values of the results and the channel
configuration in the lower part of the screen. The various channels are represented by vertical
lines on the graph.

The frequency span, resolution bandwidth, video bandwidth and detector are selected
automatically to give correct results. To obtain stable results – especially in the adjacent
channels (30 kHz bandwidth) which are narrow in comparison with the transmission channel
bandwidth (1.23 MHz) – the RMS detector is used.

5. Set the optimal reference level and RF attenuation for the applied signal level.

 Press the Adjust Ref Level softkey.

The R&S ESL sets the optimal RF attenuation and the reference level based on the
transmission channel power to obtain the maximum dynamic range. Fig. 2-19 shows the result
of the measurement.

1300.5053.12 2.27 E-2

Measurements on Modulated Signals R&S ESL

Fig. 2-19 Adjacent channel power measurement on a CDMA 2000 MC1 signal

The repeatability of the results, especially in the narrow adjacent channels, strongly depends on
the measurement time since the dwell time within the 30 kHz channels is only a fraction of the
complete sweep time. A longer sweep time may increase the probability that the measured
value converges to the true value of the adjacent channel power, but this increases
measurement time.

To avoid long measurement times, the R&S ESL measures the adjacent channel power with
zero span (fast ACP mode). In the fast ACP mode, the R&S ESL measures the power of each
channel at the defined channel bandwidth, while being tuned to the center frequency of the
channel in question. The digital implementation of the resolution bandwidths makes it possible
to select filter characteristics that is precisely tailored to the signal. In case of CDMA 2000 MC1,
the power in the useful channel is measured with a bandwidth of 1.23 MHz and that of the
adjacent channels with a bandwidth of 30 kHz. Therefore the R&S ESL changes from one
channel to the other and measures the power at a bandwidth of 1.23 MHz or 30 kHz using the
RMS detector. The measurement time per channel is set with the sweep time. It is equal to the
selected measurement time divided by the selected number of channels. The five channels
from the above example and the sweep time of 100 ms give a measurement time per channel
of 20 ms.

Compared to the measurement time per channel given by the span (= 5 MHz) and sweep time
(= 100 ms, equal to 0.600 ms per 30 kHz channel) used in the example, this is a far longer
dwell time on the adjacent channels (factor of 12). In terms of the number of uncorrelated
samples this means 20000/33 Rs = 606 samples per channel measurement compared to
600/33Rs = 12.5 samples per channel measurement.

Repeatability with a confidence level of 95% is increased from ± 1.4 dB to ± 0.38 dB as shown
in Fig. 2-17. For the same repeatability, the sweep time would have to be set to 1.2 s with the
integration method. Fig. 2-20 shows the standard deviation of the results as a function of the
sweep time.

1300.5053.12 2.28 E-2

R&S ESL Measurements on Modulated Signals

A

CPR Repeatability IS95

IBW Method

1,4

1,2

1

Adjacent channels

0,8

0,6

Standard dev / dB

0,4

Alternate channels

Tx channel

0,2

0

10 100 1000

Fig. 2-20 Repeatability of adjacent channel power measurement on CDMA 2000 standard
signals if the integration bandwidth method is used

6. Switch to fast ACP mode to increase the repeatability of results.

 Switch the Fast ACP softkey to On.

The R&S ESL measures the power of each channel with zero span. The trace represents
power as a function of time for each channel (see Fig. 2-23). The numerical results over
consecutive measurements become much more stable.

Sweep time/ms

1300.5053.12 2.29 E-2

Measurements on Modulated Signals R&S ESL

Fig. 2-21 Measuring the channel power and adjacent channel power ratio for 2000 MC1
signals with zero span (Fast ACP)

Fig. 2-22 shows the repeatability of power measurements in the transmit channel and of relative

power measurements in the adjacent channels as a function of sweep time. The standard
deviation of measurement results is calculated from 100 consecutive measurements as shown
in Fig. 2-22. Take scaling into account if comparing power values.

ACPR IS95 Re pe atability

0,35

0,3

0,25

0,2

Adjace nt ch a nnel s

0,15

Standard dev /dB

0,1

0,05

Tx chann e l

Altern ate c h anne ls

0

10 100 1000

Sw e ep tim e/m s

Fig. 2-22 Repeatability of adjacent channel power measurements on CDMA 2000 signals in
the fast ACP mode

1300.5053.12 2.30 E-2

R&S ESL Measurements on Modulated Signals

Note on adjacent channel power measurements on 2000 MC1 base–station signals:

hen measuring the adjacent channel power of 2000 MC1 base–station signals, the frequency spacing

W

of the adjacent channel to the nominal transmit channel is specified as ±750 kHz. The adjacent
channels are, therefore, so close to the transmit channel that the power of the transmit signal
leaks across and is also measured in the adjacent channel if the usual method using the 30
kHz resolution bandwidth is applied. The reason is the low selectivity of the 30 kHz resolution
filter. The resolution bandwidth, therefore, must be reduced considerably, e.g. to 3 kHz to avoid
this. This causes very long measurement times (factor of 100 between a 30 kHz and 3 kHz
resolution bandwidth).

This effect is avoided with the zero span method which uses steep IF filters. The 30 kHz channel filter

implemented in the R&S ESL has a very high selectivity so that even with a ± 750 kHz spacing
to the transmit channel the power of the useful modulation spectrum is not measured.

The following figure shows the passband characteristics of the 30 kHz channel filter in the R&S ESL.

Fig. 2-23 Frequency response of the 30 kHz channel filter for measuring the power in the 2000 MC1
adjacent channel

1300.5053.12 2.31 E-2

Measurements on Modulated Signals R&S ESL

Measurement example 2 – Measuring adjacent channel power of a W–CDMA uplink signal

Test setup:

Signal

generator

R&S ESL

Signal generator settings (e.g. R&S SMU):

Frequency: 1950 MHz

Level: 4 dBm

Modulation: 3 GPP W–CDMA Reverse Link

Procedure:

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

 Press the PRESET key.

The R&S ESL is in its default state.

2. Set the center frequency to 1950 MHz.

 Press the FREQ key and enter 1950 MHz.

3. Switch on the ACP measurement for W–CDMA.

 Press the MEAS key.

 Press the CP, ACP, MC–ACP softkey.

 Press the CP / ACP Standard softkey.

 In the standards list, mark W–CDMA 3GPP REV using the rotary knob or the arrow keys and

confirm pressing the rotary knob or the ENTER key.

The R&S ESL sets the channel configuration to the 3GPP W–CDMA standard for mobiles with
two adjacent channels above and below the transmit channel. The frequency span, the
resolution and video bandwidth and the detector are automatically set to the correct values. The
spectrum is displayed in the upper part of the screen and the channel power, the level ratios of
the adjacent channel powers and the channel configuration in the lower part of the screen. The
individual channels are displayed as vertical lines on the graph.

4. Set the optimum reference level and the RF attenuation for the applied signal level.

 Press the Adjust Ref Level softkey.

The R&S ESL sets the optimum RF attenuation and the reference level for the power in the
transmission channel to obtain the maximum dynamic range. The following figure shows the
result of the measurement.

1300.5053.12 2.32 E-2

R&S ESL Measurements on Modulated Signals

Fig. 2-24 Measuring the relative adjacent channel power on a W–CDMA uplink signal

5. Measuring adjacent channel power with the fast ACP mode.

 Set Fast ACP softkey to On.

 Press the Adjust Ref Level softkey.

The R&S ESL measures the power of the individual channels with zero span. A root raised
cosine filter with the parameters  = 0.22 and chip rate 3.84 Mcps (= receive filter for 3GPP W–
CDMA) is used as channel filter.

1300.5053.12 2.33 E-2

Measurements on Modulated Signals R&S ESL

Fig. 2-25 Measuring the adjacent channel power of a W–CDMA signal with the fast ACP
mode

Note: With W–CDMA, the R&S ESL's dynamic range for adjacent channel measurements is limited

by the 12–bit A/D converter. The greatest dynamic range is, therefore, obtained with the IBW
method.

Optimum Level Setting for ACP Measurements on W–CDMA Signals

The dynamic range for ACPR measurements is limited by the thermal noise floor, the phase noise and
the intermodulation (spectral regrowth) of the spectrum analyzer. The power values produced by the
R&S ESL due to these factors accumulate linearly. They depend on the applied level at the input mixer.
The three factors are shown in the figure below for the adjacent channel (5 MHz carrier offset).

1300.5053.12 2.34 E-2

R&S ESL Measurements on Modulated Signals

A

CLR / dBc

-30

-35

-40

-45

-50

-55

-60

-65

-70

-75

-80

-40 -35 -30 -25 -20 -15 -10

Phase

Noise

Thermal Noise

Optimum Range

Total

ACLR

S.R.I.

Mixer Level / dBm

Fig. 2-26 The R&S ESL's dynamic range for adjacent channel power measurements on W–CDMA
uplink signals is a function of the mixer level.

The level of the W–CDMA signal at the input mixer is shown on the horizontal axis, i.e. the measured
signal level minus the selected RF attenuation. The individual components which contribute to the
power in the adjacent channel and the resulting relative level (total ACPR) in the adjacent channel are
displayed on the vertical axis. The optimum mixer level is –21 dBm. The relative adjacent channel
power (ACPR) at an optimum mixer level is –65 dBc. Since, at a given signal level, the mixer level is set
in 10 dB steps with the 10 dB RF attenuator, the optimum 10 dB range is shown in the figure: it spreads
from –16 dBm to –26 dBm. In this range, the obtainable dynamic range is 62 dB.

To set the attenuation parameter manually, the following method is recommended:

• Set the RF attenuation so that the mixer level (= measured channel power – RF attenuation) is
between –11 dBm and –21 dBm.

• Set the reference level to the largest possible value where no overload (IFOVL) is indicated.

This method is automated with the Adjust Ref Level function. Especially in remote control mode, e.g.
in production environments, it is best to correctly set the attenuation parameters prior to the
measurement, as the time required for automatic setting can be saved.

Note: To measure the R&S ESL's intrinsic dynamic range for W–CDMA adjacent channel power

measurements, a filter which suppresses the adjacent channel power is required at the output
of the transmitter. A SAW filter with a bandwidth of 4 MHz, for example, can be used.

1300.5053.12 2.35 E-2

Measurements on Modulated Signals R&S ESL

Amplitude Distribution Measurements

If modulation types are used that do not have a constant zero span envelope, the transmitter has to
handle peak amplitudes that are greater than the average power. This includes all modulation types that
involve amplitude modulation –QPSK for example. CDMA transmission modes in particular may have
power peaks that are large compared to the average power.

For signals of this kind, the transmitter must provide large reserves for the peak power to prevent signal
compression and thus an increase of the bit error rate at the receiver.

The peak power or the crest factor of a signal is therefore an important transmitter design criterion. The
crest factor is defined as the peak power / mean power ratio or, logarithmically, as the peak level minus
the average level of the signal.

To reduce power consumption and cut costs, transmitters are not designed for the largest power that
could ever occur, but for a power that has a specified probability of being exceeded (e.g. 0.01%).

To measure the amplitude distribution, the R&S ESL has simple measurement functions to determine
both the APD = A

unction.

F

In the APD display mode, the probability of occurrence of a certain level is plotted against the level.

In the CCDF display mode, the probability that the mean signal power will be exceeded is shown in
percent.

mplitude Probability Distribution and CCDF = Complementary Cumulative Distribution

Measurement example – Measuring the APD and CCDF of white noise generated by the R&S ESL

1. Set the R&S ESL to its default state.

 Press the PRESET key.

The R&S ESL is in its default state.

2. Configure the R&S ESL for APD measurement

 Press the AMPT key and enter –60 dBm.

The R&S ESL's intrinsic noise is displayed at the top of the screen.

 Press the MEAS key.

 Press the More softkey.

 Press the APD softkey.

The R&S ESL sets the frequency span to 0 Hz and measures the amplitude probability
distribution (APD). The number of uncorrelated level measurements used for the measurement
is 100000. The mean power and the peak power are displayed in dBm. The crest factor (peak
power – mean power) is output as well.

1300.5053.12 2.36 E-2

R&S ESL Measurements on Modulated Signals

Fig. 2-27 Amplitude probability distribution of white noise

3. Switch to the CCDF display mode.

 Press the E key.

 Press the CCDF softkey.

The CCDF display mode is switched on.

1300.5053.12 2.37 E-2

Measurements on Modulated Signals R&S ESL

Fig. 2-28 CCDF of white noise

The CCDF trace indicates the probability that a level will exceed the mean power. The level
above the mean power is plotted along the x–axis of the graph. The origin of the axis
corresponds to the mean power level. The probability that a level will be exceeded is plotted
along the y–axis.

4. Bandwidth selection

When the amplitude distribution is measured, the resolution bandwidth must be set so that the
complete spectrum of the signal to be measured falls within the bandwidth. This is the only way of
ensuring that all the amplitudes will pass through the IF filter without being distorted. If the
resolution bandwidth which is selected is too small for a digitally modulated signal, the amplitude
distribution at the output of the IF filter becomes a Gaussian distribution according to the central
limit theorem and so corresponds to a white noise signal. The true amplitude distribution of the
signal therefore cannot be determined.

5. Selecting the number of samples

For statistics measurements with the R&S ESL, the number of samples N
statistical evaluation instead

of the sweep time. Since only statistically independent samples

Samples

is entered for

contribute to statistics, the measurement or sweep time is calculated automatically and displayed.
The samples are statistically independent if the time difference is at least 1/RBW. The sweep time
SWT is, therefore, expressed as follows:

SWT = N

Samples

/ RBW

1300.5053.12 2.38 E-2

R&S ESL Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30)

Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30)

This section describes measurement examples for the Noise Figure Measurements option (K30). For
further information on measurement examples refer to the Quick Start Guide, chapter 5 "Basic
Measurement Examples", or the Operating Manual on CD, chapter "Advanced Measurement

xamples".

E

Direct Measurements

Direct measurements are designed for DUTs without frequency–conversion, e.g. amplifiers. For details
refer also to the Operating Manual on CD, chapter "Instrument Functions", section "Noise Figure
Measurements Option (K30)".

Basic Measurement Example

This section provides step–by–step instructions for working through an ordinary noise figure
measurement. The following steps are described:

1. Setting up the measurement

2. Performing the calibration

3. Performing the main measurement

The gain and noise figure of an amplifier are to be determined in the range from 220 MHz to 320 MHz.

Setting up the measurement

Activate the Noise mode (for details refer to chapter "Instrument Functions", section "Measurement

1.
Mode Selection – MODE Key").

2. Press the Freq Settings softkey to open the Frequency Settings dialog box.

 In the Start Freq field, enter 550 MHz.

 In the Stop Freq field, enter 560 MHz.

 In the Step Freq field, enter 2 MHz.

A measurement at 6 frequency points is performed: 550 MHz, 552 MHz, 554 MHz, ..., 560
MHz.

3. Press the ENR Settings softkey to open the ENR dialog box.

1300.5053.12 2.39 E-2

Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30) R&S ESL

 In the ENR Constant field, enter the average ENR value of the used noise source for the

frequency range of interest, for example 15 dB.

4. Press the Meas Settings softkey to open the Measurement Settings dialog box.

 Activate the 2nd Stage Correction option to perform the measurement as accurately as

possible.

Performing the calibration

1. Connect the

2. If you perform the measurement in an environment with radiated emissions, you may consider to
connect a lowpass filter to the voltage supply input of the noise source.

3. Provide the voltage supply for the noise source by connecting it to the +28 V connector of the
R&S ESL (labeled NOISE SOURCE CONTROL on the rear panel of the instrument) via a coax
cable and the lowpass filter. Connect the lowpass filter between the noise source itself and the
NOISE SOURCE CONTROL connector of the R&S ESL as shown in Fig. 2-29.

The purpose of the lowpass filter is to suppress any interference (e.g. due to RF interference),
including interference from the supply line. This makes it possible to perform very precise
measurements.

1300.5053.12 2.40 E-2

noise source to the RF input of the R&S ESL (see Fig. 2-29).

R&S ESL Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30)

Fig. 2-29: Preparation for calibration

4. Start

Performing the main measurement

1. Insert the DUT (in this example, the amplifier) into the test setup between the noise source and RF

2. To select the sweep mode, press the SWEEP key.

3. Press the RUN key to start the measurement.

the calibration for the Noise Figure Measurements option.

 Press the SWEEP key.

 Press the Cal softkey.

The progress bar indicates the progress of the calibration measurement. After successful
calibration, in the status bar, a corresponding message is displayed and the title bar at the top of
the screen shows the status on the right–hand–side.

input of the R&S ESL (see Fig. 2-30).

Fig. 2-30: Test setup for the main measurement

Measurement results are updated as the measurement is in progress. The results are displayed in
graphical form. There are two traces, one for noise figure/temperature and one for the gain of the
DUT.

4. To change the display from the graphical form to a tabular list of measurement points, press the
Display List/Graph softkey.

Note: If a measurement is started while another measurement is still in progress, the first

measurement is aborted and the new measurement started immediately.

DUTs with very Large Gain

If the gain of the DUT exceeds 60 dB, the total gain must be reduced by an external attenuator. The
total gain of the DUT together with the external attenuator should lie within the range from 10 dB to
60 dB. A total gain of 20 dB to 30 dB is recommended. For a DUT with a gain of e.g. 64 dB, it is
recommended to use an external 40 dB–attenuator.

If an external attenuator is used, in the Measurement Settings dialog box, the entry in the Range field
should be modified according to the total gain ( = G

The attenuation values of the external attenuator are entered in the Loss Settings dialog box under
Loss Output Settings.

Inaccuracies when entering this attenuation mainly influence the measured gain. The noise figure
remains to a large extent unaffected.

– external attenuator).

DUT

1300.5053.12 2.41 E-2

Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30) R&S ESL

Fig. 2-31: Calibration and measurement on DUTs with a high gain

Frequency–Converting Measurements

The frequency–converting measurement is used for DUTs with an output frequency that differs from the
input frequency, e.g. mixers and frequency converters. The frequency–converting measurement allows
many variations, which differ from each other in two criteria:

 Fixed LO Measurements

 Image–Frequency Rejection (SSB, DSB)

Fixed LO Measurements

In the Frequency Settings dialog box, select one of the following settings for the Mode parameter:

 fixed LO, IF=RF+LO, for up–converting devices

 fixed LO, IF=abs(RF–LO), for down converters or image measurements

Image–Frequency Rejection (SSB, DSB)

Frequency–converting DUTs often do not only convert the desired input frequency but also the image
frequency. A broadband noise source offers noise to the DUT not only at the input frequency but also at
the image frequency. If the noise power at the IF gate is measured, the origin of the noise can no longer
be determined. It may have been converted both from the input and from the image frequency range.

Test setup

 Set the following parameters:

 IF (intermediate frequency): 100 MHz

 RF (input frequency): 400 MHz

 LO (local oscillator frequency): 500 MHz

 image (image frequency): 600 MHz

1300.5053.12 2.42 E-2

R&S ESL Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30)

LORFIFImage

freq.

If a DUT, which equally converts the useful signal and the image to the IF frequency, is measured using
the conventional y factor method or with the 2nd stage correction switched on, a measuring error of 3
dB is produced. The noise figure is displayed 3 dB lower and the gain 3 dB higher. The following
examples help to configure the test setup in order to measure the actual values.

Measurement on a single–sideband mixer

LORFIF

freq.

In general, a single–sideband mixer with a very high image rejection causes very few problems. The
measurement is analogous to an amplifier. In this case, set the image rejection in the Frequency

Settings dialog box to a large value (e.g. 999.99 dB).

Measurement on a mixer without sideband suppression

LORFIFImage

freq.

If the input and image frequencies are converted with the same application, an error of 3 dB occurs in
the measurement results if the image rejection is not taken into account. In this case, set the image
rejection in the Frequency Settings dialog box to a small value (e.g. 0.0 dB).

Measurement on a mixer with an average sideband suppression

1300.5053.12 2.43 E-2

Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30) R&S ESL

4dB

LORFIFImage

freq.

For measurements on a mixer with a low image–frequency rejection, a measuring error of 0 to 3 dB is
obtained if the image–frequency rejection is not taken into account. In this case, set the image rejection
in the Frequency Settings dialog box to 4 dB to produce the correct results.

Measurement on a mixer with unknown sideband suppression

X dB

LORFIFImage

freq.

If the image rejection is not known, accurate noise results can still be produced. However, the gain of
the DUT must be known and an additional filter is required.

Test setup

Fig. 2-32: Preparation for calibration

Fig. 2-33: Test setup for the main measurement

In this test setup, a low pass filter prevents noise from the noise source from being fed in at the image
frequency. Depending on the position of the frequency bands, a highpass or bandpass filter may also
be necessary for the RF frequency instead of the lowpass filter. The important point is that noise from
the noise source is not converted by a further receive path of the mixer. The noise of the noise source
at the receive frequency must not be reduced. The insertion loss must be considered, if applicable.

1300.5053.12 2.44 E-2

R&S ESL Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30)

With this test setup, the measurement on a mixer without sideband suppression corresponds to the
measurement on a single–sideband mixer. As in that case, set the image rejection in the Frequency
Settings dialog box to a large value (e.g. 999.99 dB) to produce accurate results.

To take the characteristics of the filter into account, in the Loss Settings dialog box, enter the insertion

oss of the filter at the RF frequency. To consider the actual filter suppression at the image frequency,

l
do not enter 999 dB but the actual attenuation for the image rejection.

Measurement on a harmonics mixer

For a harmonics mixer, the input signals are not only converted to the IF by the wanted harmonic, but
also by the harmonic of the LO signal produced in the mixer. In many cases, the mixer even features a
lower conversion loss in the case of unwanted harmonics. For measurements on this type of mixer, a
bandpass filter must be used to make sure that that there is only noise at the desired input frequency at
the input of the DUT. This measurement is similar to measurements on a mixer with an average
sideband suppression.

1300.5053.12 2.45 E-2

R&S ESL Manual Operation

3 Manual Operation

For details refer to the Quick Start Guide chapter 4, "Basic Operations".

1300.5053.12 3.1 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions

Contents of Chapter 4

4 Instrument Functions ................................................................................... 4.1

Instrument Functions – Receiver....................................................................................................4.2

Measurement Parameters ..........................................................................................................4.3

Initializing the Configuration – PRESET key ..............................................................................4.4

Operation on a Discrete Frequency – FREQ Key ......................................................................4.6

Level Display and RF Input Configuration – AMPT Key.............................................................4.9

Setting the IF Bandwidth – BW Key .........................................................................................4.13

Frequency Scan – SWEEP Key ...............................................................................................4.18

Triggering the Scan – TRIG Key ..............................................................................................4.26

Selection and Setting of Traces – TRACE Key ........................................................................4.28

Measurement Functions ...........................................................................................................4.39

Marker Functions – MKR Key...................................................................................................4.40

Change of Settings via Markers – MKR-> Key .........................................................................4.44

Selection of the Measurement Function – MEAS Key .............................................................4.48

Running a Scan – RUN key......................................................................................................4.66

Using Limit Lines and Display Lines – LINES Key ...................................................................4.68

Measurement Modes ................................................................................................................4.77

Measurement Mode Selection – MODE Key............................................................................4.78

Instrument Functions – Analyzer..................................................................................................4.79

Measurement Parameters..............................................................................................................4.80

Initializing the Configuration – PRESET Key............................................................................4.81

Selecting the Frequency and Span – FREQ Key .....................................................................4.83

Setting the Frequency Span – SPAN Key................................................................................4.89

Setting the Level Display and Configuring the RF Input – AMPT Key .....................................4.91

Setting the Bandwidths and Sweep Time – BW Key................................................................4.95

Configuring the Sweep Mode – SWEEP Key.........................................................................4.102

Triggering the Sweep – TRIG Key..........................................................................................4.105

Setting Traces – TRACE Key .................................................................................................4.113

Measurement Functions ..............................................................................................................4.123

Using Markers and Delta Markers – MKR Key.......................................................................4.124

Changing Settings via Markers – MKR–> Key .......................................................................4.136

Power Measurements – MEAS Key .......................................................................................4.144

Using Limit Lines and Display Lines – LINES Key .................................................................4.183

Measurement Modes....................................................................................................................4.193

Measurement Mode Selection – MODE Key..........................................................................4.194

Measurement Mode Menus – MENU Key ..............................................................................4.195

Models and Options .....................................................................................................................4.196

Tracking Generator (Models 13, 16).......................................................................................4.197

Analog Demodulation (Option K7)..........................................................................................4.203

1300.5053.12 I-4-1 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions

Power Meter (Option K9) ........................................................................................................4.222

Noise Figure Measurements Option (K30) .............................................................................4.226

Instrument Functions - Basic Settings.......................................................................................4.260

eneral Settings, Printout and Instrument Settings.................................................................4.261

G

Instrument Setup and Interface Configuration - SETUP Key .................................................4.262

Saving and Recalling Settings Files - FILE Key .....................................................................4.279

Manual Operation - Local Menu .............................................................................................4.287

Measurement Documentation - PRINT Key ...........................................................................4.288

1300.5053.12 I-4-2 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

4 Instrument Functions

This chapter describes the analyzer and receiver functions and all basic settings functions of the
R&S ESL in detail.

• "Instrument Functions – Receiver" on page 4.2

This section describes measurement functions and measurement parameter for the R&S ESL in
receiver mode.

• "Instrument Functions – Analyzer" on page 4.79

This section describes measurement functions and measurement parameter for the R&S ESL in
spectrum analyzer mode.

• "Measurement Modes" on page 4.194

This section describes the provided measurement modes, the change of measurement modes and
the access to the menus of all active measurement modes.

• "Models and Options"" on page 4.197

This section informs about optional functions and their application that are included in the basic unit
configuration.

1300.5053.12 4.1 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Instrument Functions – Receiver

How to open the Receiver mode

The receiver mode is selected using the MODE key ("Measurement Mode Selection – MODE Key" on
page 4.78).

 Remote: INST REC

In the receiver mode the R&S ESL measures the level of a signal at the set frequency with a selected
bandwidth and measurement time (see also Res BW Manual and Meas Time). Signal weighting is
done by means of detectors (see also Scan Detector, Final Meas Detector and "Selecting the

Detector").

The functions for data reduction and the control of line impedance simulating network are available in
the Final Meas submenus.

A frequency scan can be performed after setting the start and stop frequency and the step width. The
scan subranges can be defined in a table (Edit Scan Table softkey).

The scan is started with the RUN key.

The MENU key opens the root menu of the receiver. The root menu contains the essential
measurement functions. The contents are the same as in the measurement menu (MEAS key).

• "Measurement Parameters" on page 4.3

This section describes how to reset the instrument, to set up specific measurements and to set the
measurement parameters. Examples of basic operations are provided in the Quick Start Guide,
chapter 5 "Basic Measurement Examples".

• "Measurement Functions" on page 4.39

This section informs about how to select and configure the measurement functions. Examples of
basic operations are provided in the Quick Start Guide, chapter 5 "Basic Measurement Examples".

• "Measurement Modes" on page 4.194

This section describes the provided measurement modes, the change of measurement modes and
the access to the menus of all active measurement modes.

• "Models and Options" on page 4.197

This section informs about optional functions and their application that are included in the basic unit
configuration.

More basic information on operation is given in the Quick Start Guide. The front and the rear view of the
instrument together with a table of all available keys and a short description are provided in chapter
"Front and Rear Panel". Chapter "Preparing for Use" informs how to start working with the instrument
for the first time. A brief introduction on handling the instrument is given in chapter "Basic Operations".
This includes also the description of the keys for basic operations like switching the instrument on and
off or starting a measurement.

1300.5053.12 4.2 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Measurement Parameters

In this section all menus necessary for setting measurement parameters are described. This includes
the following topics and keys. For details on changing the mode refer to "Measurement Modes"

• "Initializing the Configuration – PRESET key" on page 4.4

• “Operation on a Discrete Frequency – FREQ Key” on page 4.6

• “Level Display and RF Input Configuration – AMPT Key” on page 4.9

• “Setting the IF Bandwidth – BW Key” on page 4.13

• “Frequency Scan – SWEEP Key” on page 4.18

• “Triggering the Scan – TRIG Key” on page 4.26

• “Selection and Setting of Traces – TRACE Key” on page 4.28

1300.5053.12 4.3 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Initializing the Configuration – PRESET key

The PRESET key resets the instrument to the default settings. Therefore it provides a defined initial
state as a known starting point for measurements.

Note: If the LOCAL LOCKOUT function is active in the remote control mode, the PRESET key is

disabled.

Further information

– "Initial configuration" on page 4.82

Task

– To preset the instrument

To preset the instrument

1. Define the data set for the preset:

– To retrieve the originally provided settings file (see Initial configuration), in the file menu,

deactivate the Startup Recall softkey and, in the setup menu, activate the Preset Receiver
softkey.

– For compatibility to the R&S FSL spectrum analyzers the preset state can be set to the

R&S FSL settings by activating the Preset Spectrum softkey in the setup menu.

– To retrieve a customized settings file, in the file menu, activate the Startup Recall softkey,

press the Startup Recall Setup softkey, and select the corresponding file.

For details refer to section "Saving and Recalling Settings Files – FILE Key".

2. Press the PRESET key to trigger a preset.

 Remote: *RST or SYSTem:PRESet (for details refer to chapter "Remote Control – Commands",

section "Common Commands" or section "SYSTem Subsystem").

Note: In order to save the current settings after reboot of the instrument, create a shutdown file by

switching the analyzer in the standby mode (press the On/Off key on the FRONT panel and
wait until the yellow LED is ON). With the battery pack option, use a USB keyboard and
terminate the analyzer firmware with ALT+F4 to create the shutdown file.

1300.5053.12 4.4 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Initial configuration

The initial configuration is selected in a way that the RF input is always protected against overload,
provided that the applied signal levels are in the allowed range for the instrument.

The parameter set of the initial configuration can be customized by using the Startup Recall softkey in
the file menu. For further information refer to section "Instrument Functions – Basic Settings", "Saving

nd Recalling Settings Files – FILE Key".

a

Table 4-1: Initial configuration of the receiver

Parameter Setting

mode Receiver

receiver frequency 100 MHz

scan step size auto coarse

scan start frequency 150 kHz

stop frequency 1 GHz

step mode Auto

RF attenuation Auto

preamplifier off

level range 100 dB log

level unit dBEV

measurement time 100 ms

resolution bandwidth (RBW) 120 kHz

filter type EMI (6 dB)

scan continous

bargraph continous

trigger free run

trace 1 Clear Write

trace 2-6 blank

scan detector peak

scan count 1

peak search peaks

No of peaks 25

final measurement time 1 s

10 dB

LISN settings off

1300.5053.12 4.5 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL



Operation on a Discrete Frequency – FREQ Key

The FREQ key opens the frequency menu for setting the receiver frequency in manual operation and
the frequency axis for scan display.

To open the frequency menu

 Press the FREQ key.

The frequency menu is displayed and the receiver frequency field activated.

Menu and softkey description

– "Softkeys of the frequency menu" on page 4.6

To display help to a softkey, press the HELP key and then the softkey for which you want to display
help. To close the help window, press the ESC key. For further information refer to section "How to use
the Help System".

Softkeys of the frequency menu

The following table shows all softkeys available in the frequency menu. It is possible that your
instrument configuration does not provide all softkeys. If a softkey is only available with a special option,
model or (measurement) mode, this information is delivered in the corresponding softkey description.

Menu / Command Command

Frequency

Stepsize  Auto Coarse

Auto Fine

Manual

Stepsize = Freq

Start Frequency

Stop Frequency

Frequency

The Frequency softkey activates the entry field of the receiver frequency in the bargraph
diagram.

The tuning frequency has to be set to at least twice the IF bandwidth.

When the tuning frequency is lower than twice the IF bandwidth, the IF bandwidth is
automatically reduced so that this condition is met again.

If the frequency is increased again, the original IF bandwidth is restored (memory function). The
memory is cleared when the IF bandwidth is manually changed.

The resolution of the receiver frequency is always 0.1 Hz.

f

f

Range: 9 kHz

rec

max

 Remote: FREQ:CENT 300 MHz

1300.5053.12 4.6 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Stepsize

The Stepsize softkey opens a submenu for setting the step size of the receiver frequency. The
step size can be coupled to the set frequency or be manually set to a fixed value. The softkeys
of the submenu are mutually exclusive selection switches. Only one switch can be activated at a
time.

The following softkeys are available:

Auto Coarse

Auto Fine

Manual

Stepsize = Freq

Auto Coarse

If the Auto Coarse softkey is activated, the receiver frequency is set in coarse steps. The 4th
digit of the selected frequency is varied.

Auto Fine

If the Auto Fine softkey is activated, the receiver frequency is set in fine steps. The 7th digit of
the selected frequency is varied.

Manual

The Manual softkey opens the dialog box for the input of a fixed step size

 Remote: FREQ:CENT:STEP 50 kHz

Stepsize = Freq

The Stepsize = FREQ softkey sets the step size to a value equal to the receiver frequency.

This function is especially useful during measurements of the signal harmonic content, because,
when entering the receiver frequency, the receiver frequency of another harmonic is selected
with each stroke of the Stepsize softkey.

Start Frequency

The Start Frequency softkey opens a dialog box to enter the start frequency of the scan
diagram.

The permissible value range for the start frequency is:

f

f

f

min

start

: start frequency

f

start

: maximum frequency

f

max

f

: 9 kHz

min

– 10 Hz

max

 Remote: FREQ:STAR 20 MHz

1300.5053.12 4.7 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Stop Frequency

The Stop Frequency softkey opens a dialog box to enter the stop frequency of the scan
diagram.

The permissible value range for the stop frequency is:

f

+ 10 Hz f

in

m

stop frequency

:

f

top

s

f

: maximum frequency

max

 Remote: FREQ:STOP 2000 MHz

f

top

s

ax

m

1300.5053.12 4.8 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Level Display and RF Input Configuration – AMPT Key

The AMPT key is used to set the input attenuation, the Preamplifier (option RF Preamplifier, B22), the
auto range function and the Display Unit.

In addition, the level display range for the scan can be set.

To open the amplitude menu

 Press the AMPT key.

The amplitude menu is displayed.

Menu and softkey description

– Softkeys of the amplitude menu

To display help to a softkey, press the HELP key and then the softkey for which you want to display
help. To close the help window, press the ESC key. For further information refer to section "How to use
the Help System".

Softkeys of the amplitude menu

Menu / Command Command

RF Atten Manual

Preamp On Off

10 dB Min On Off

Auto Range On Off

Autopreamp On Off

Unit

Grid Level Grid Range Log 100 dB

Grid Range Log Manual

Grid Min Level

RF Atten Manual

The RF Atten Manual softkey activates the attenuation entry field.

The attenuation can be set between 0 and 50 dB in 5 dB steps. Other entries are rounded up to
the nearest valid integer.

Note: To protect the input mixer against inadvertent overload, 0 dB can only be switched on when the

10 dB Min softkey is switched off.

 Remote: INP:ATT 20 dB

1300.5053.12 4.9 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

The attenuation is automatically set so that a good S/N ratio is

The preamplifier is considered in the autorange procedure. The

preamplifier is cut in when the RF attenuation is reduced to the

Preamp On Off (option RF Preamplifier, B22)

The Preamp On/Off softkey switches the preamplifier (9 kHz to 6 GHz) on and off.

Switching on the preamplifier reduces the total mark figure of the R&S ESL and thus improves
the sensitivity.

The signal level of the subsequent mixer is 20 dB higher so that the maximum input level is
reduced by the gain of the preamplifier.

The use of the preamplifier is recommended when measurements with a maximum sensitivity
are to be performed. On the other hand, if the measurement should be performed at maximum
dynamic range, the preamplifier should be switched off.

The gain of the preamplifier is automatically considered in the level display.

Default value is OFF.

 Remote: INP:GAIN:STAT ON

10 dB Min On Off

The 10 dB Min softkey determines whether the 10 dB setting of the attenuator may be used in
the manual or automatic setting of the attenuator.

10 dB Min ON is the default value, i.e. an RF attenuation of at least 10 dB is always set on the
R&S ESL to protect the input mixer.

An attenuation of 0 dB cannot be set manually either. This avoids 0 dB being switched on
inadvertently, particularly when DUTs with high RFI voltage are measured.

 Remote: INP:ATT:PROT ON

Auto Range On Off

The Auto Range On/Off softkey switches the autorange function on and off.

ON

obtained without the receiver stages being overdriven.

OFF The attenuation is set manually.

 Remote: INP:ATT:AUTO ON

Autopreamp On Off (option RF Preamplifer, B22)

The Autopreamp On/Off softkey switches the auto preamp function and or off.

ON

minimum settable value.

OFF The preamplifier is not considered in the autorange procedure.

 Remote: INP:GAIN:AUTO ON

1300.5053.12 4.10 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver



Unit

The Unit softkey opens a list in which the desired units for the level axis can be selected: dBm,
dBpW, dBmV, dBEV, dBEA or dBpT. Default setting is dBEV.

dBm

dBpW

dBmV

dBEV

dBEA

dBpT

In general, a receiver measures the signal voltage at the RF input. The level display is calibrated
in RMS values of an unmodulated sinewave signal.

Via the known input resistance of 50

a conversion can be made to other units. The units

dBm, dBpW, dBmV, dBEV, dBEA and dBpT are directly convertible.

 Remote: CALC:UNIT:POW DBM

Grid Level

The Grid Level softkey opens a submenu to adjust the range of the y-axis. The submenu
contains the following softkeys:

Grid Range Log 100 dB

Grid Range Log Manual

Grid Min Level

Grid Range Log 100 dB

The Grid Range Log 100 dB softkey sets the level display range for the scan diagram to 100
dB (= default setting).

 Remote: DISP:WIND:TRAC:Y:SPAC LOG

 Remote: DISP:WIND:TRAC:Y 100DB

Grid Range Log Manual

The Grid Range Log Manual softkey activates the entry of the level display range for the scan
diagram.

The display ranges go from 10 to 200 dB in 10-dB steps. Invalid entries are rounded off to the
nearest valid value.

 Remote: DISP:WIND:TRAC:Y:SPAC LOG

 Remote: DISP:WIND:TRAC:Y 120DB

1300.5053.12 4.11 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL



Grid Min Level

The Grid Min Level softkey activates the entry of the minimum level of the display range.
Allowed values are:

- 200

Grid Min Level + 200 dB - Grid Range

 Remote: DISP:WIND:TRAC:Y:SPAC LOG

 Remote: DISP:WIND:TRAC:Y:BOTT 0 DBM

1300.5053.12 4.12 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Setting the IF Bandwidth – BW Key

The R&S ESL offers the IF bandwidths (3 dB bandwidths) from 10 Hz to 10 MHz. The IF bandwidths
are available in steps of 1/3/10. Also available are the IF bandwidths (6 dB bandwidths) 200 Hz, 1 kHz,
9 kHz, 120 kHz and 1 MHz.

To open the bandwidth menu

 Press the BW key.

The bandwidth menu is displayed.

Menu and softkey description

– Softkeys of the bandwidth menu

To display help to a softkey, press the HELP key and then the softkey for which you want to display
help. To close the help window, press the ESC key. For further information refer to section "How to use
the Help System".

Further Information

– List of available channel filters

List of available channel filters

The channel filters listed in the following table are available as resolution filters (softkey Res BW
Manual) after activation with the softkey Filter Type.

Note: For filter type RRC (Root Raised Cosine) the indicated filter bandwidth describes the sampling

rate of the filter. For all other filters (CFILter) the filter bandwidth is the 3dB bandwidth.

Table 4-1: List of available channel filters

Filter Bandwidth Filter Type Application

100

200

300

500

1

1.5

2

2.4

2.7

3

3.4

4

4.5

5

6

Hz

Hz

Hz

Hz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

A0

SSB

DAB, Satelite

1300.5053.12 4.13 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL









Filter Bandwidth Filter Type Application

8.5

9

10

12.5

14

15

16

18

20

21

24.3

25

30

50

100

150

192

200

300

500

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz,

kHz

kHz

kHz,

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

kHz

=0.35

=0.35

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

RRC

CFILter

CFILter

RRC

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

ETS300 113 (12.5 kHz channels)

AM radio

CDMAone

ETS300 113 (20 kHz channels)

ETS300 113 (25 kHz channels)

TETRA

PDC

IS 136 (NADC)

CDPD, CDMAone

FM radio

PHS

J.83 (8-VSB DVB, USA)

1.0

1.2288

1.5

2.0

3.0

3.75

3.84

4.096

5.0

20 MHz

MHz

MHz

MHz

MHz

MHz

MHz

MHz,

MHz,

MHz

MHz

=0.22*

=0.22*

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

CFILter

RRC

RRC

CFILter

CFILter

CDMAone

CDMAone

DAB

W-CDMA 3GPP

W-CDMA NTT DOCoMo

Note: The 20 MHz channel filter is unavailable in sweep mode.

1300.5053.12 4.14 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver



Softkeys of the bandwidth menu

The BW key calls a menu for setting the resolution bandwidth (RES BW) for the receiver.

Menu / Command Command

Res BW Manual

Res BW 200 Hz

Res BW 9 kHz

Res BW 120 kHz

Res BW 1 MHz

CISPR RBW Uncoupled

Filter Type Gaussian

EMI (6dB)

Channel

RRC

Res BW Manual

The Res BW softkey activates the manual entry mode for the resolution bandwidth.

For filter type Normal (3 dB), the bandwidth can be set from 10 Hz to 20 MHz in steps of 1/3/10

(e.g. 10 Hz, 30 Hz, 100 Hz, 300 Hz, 1000 Hz/ 1 kHz, 3 kHz, 10 kHz etc.). For filter type Normal
(6 dB), the 6-dB bandwidth 200 Hz, 9 kHz, 120 kHz and 1 MHz can be set.

For numerical inputs, the values are always rounded to the nearest valid bandwidth. For rotary
knob or the Up/Down key entries, the bandwidth is adjusted in the steps mentioned above either
upwards or downwards.

For the Channel and RRC filter types, the bandwidth is selected from a list of available channel
filters, which is included above. Only the filters on the list can be selected (see List of available

channel filters).

When the quasipeak detector is switched on, a fixed bandwidth is preset depending on the
frequency. The coupling of the IF bandwidth to the frequency range with activated quasipeak
detector can be cancelled using the CISPR RBW Uncoupled softkey (see below).

The bandwidth is limited by the set receiver frequency:

Res BW

fin /2

 Remote: BAND 1 MHz

Res BW 200 Hz

The 200 Hz softkey sets the CISPR bandwidth 200 Hz.

 Remote: BAND 200 Hz

Res BW 9 kHz

The 9 kHz softkey sets the CISPR bandwidth 9 kHz.

 Remote: BAND 9 kHz

1300.5053.12 4.15 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Res BW 120 kHz

The 120 kHz softkey sets the CISPR bandwidth 120 kHz.

 Remote: BAND 120 kHz

es BW 1 MHz

R

The 1 MHz softkey sets the 6-dB bandwidth 1 MHz.

 Remote: BAND 1 MHz

CISPR RBW Uncoupled

The CISPR RBW Uncoupled softkey cancels the coupling of the IF bandwidth to the frequency
range with the activated detector.

If the coupling is cancelled, any of the three CISPR bandwidths 200 Hz, 9 kHz, 120 kHz can be
selected for a given frequency range.

 Remote: BAND:AUTO ON

Filter Type

The Filter Type softkey opens a list of available filter types. Gaussian bandpass filters of 3 dB
and 6 dB bandwidth are available as well as particularly steep-edged channel filters for power
measurements.

Gaussian

EMI (6dB)

Channel

RRC

Gaussian

The resolution bandwidths are implemented by Gaussian filters with a set 3 dB bandwidth.
These bandwidths correspond to the noise bandwidth approximately.

 Remote: BAND:TYPE NOIS

 Remote: BAND:TYPE NORM

EMI (6dB)

The resolution bandwidths are implemented by Gaussian filters with the set 6 dB bandwidth and
correspond approximately to the pulse bandwidth.

 Remote: BAND:TYPE PULS

Channel

Steep-edged channel filters (for available filter types refer to List of available channel filters).

 Remote: BAND:TYPE CFIL

1300.5053.12 4.16 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

RRC

Root Raised Cosine filters (for available filter types refer to List of available channel filters).

 Remote: BAND:TYPE RRC

1300.5053.12 4.17 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Frequency Scan – SWEEP Key

The SWEEP key is used to configure the sweep mode. Continuous sweep or single sweep are
possible. The sweep time and the number of measured values are set.

To open the sweep menu

 Press the SWEEP key.

The sweep menu is displayed.

Menu and softkey description

– Softkeys of the sweep menu

To display help to a softkey, press the HELP key and then the softkey for which you want to display
help. To close the help window, press the ESC key. For further information refer to section "How to use
the Help System".

Further information

– Stepped scan in the frequency domain

– Display of Measurement Results

Stepped scan in the frequency domain

In the scan mode, the R&S ESL measures in a predefined frequency range with selectable step width
and measurement time for each frequency.

Either the current receiver settings or the settings defined in the Scan table are used. Up to 10
subranges which need not to be next to each other can be defined within one scan. The subranges are
then scanned by R&S ESL one after the other. Measurement ranges must not overlap. The parameters
to be measured in each subrange can be selected independently (sweep menu, scan table table).

Transducer factors and limit lines can be defined and displayed separately and are not part of the scan
data record.

The scanned frequency range is defined by the start and stop frequency set independently of the scan
table (scan table or frequency menu). A scan table can thus be defined for each measurement task,
which can be stored and reloaded. The required frequency range can be defined by means of two
parameters which can be set via keys so that no elaborate editing has to be done in the scan table.

Scanning is started with the RUN key. The scan can be performed as a single scan or continuously (set
via the Scan Control dialog box). In the case of single scan it is stopped when the stop frequency is
reached. The continuous scan can be interrupted with the Hold Scan softkey or terminated with the
Stop Scan softkey.

The maximal number of measured frequencies is limited to 1.000.000. A maximum of 6 x 1.000.000
values (1.000.000 per detector) can be stored for postprocessing. If the scan subranges are defined so
that more than the possible values would be measured, a respective message is output upon the scan
start. Afterwards the scan is performed up to the maximum value.

At least one scan is defined in the list. Two subranges are defined in the default setup. All other
parameters are shown in the following table:

1300.5053.12 4.18 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Table 4-2: Default setup of scan table

Start frequency 150 kHz 30 MHz

Stop frequency 30 MHz 1 GHz

Step Size Auto Auto

RES BW 9 kHz 120 kHz

Meas Time 1 ms 100 Es

Auto ranging OFF OFF

RF Attne 10 dB 10 dB

Preamp OFF OFF

Auto Preamp OFF OFF

Range 1 Range 2

The diagram parameters to be defined are: start frequency 150 kHz, stop frequency 1 GHz, min. level
0 dBEV, grid range log 100 dB, log. frequency axis and continuous scan.

The measurement parameters correspond to the settings recommended for overview measurements to
CISPR 16.

Display of Measurement Results

To display measurement results, the screen of the R&S ESL in receiver mode is split into two areas.

1300.5053.12 4.19 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

In the upper area the frequency and level readout, i.e. a bargraph, is displayed. Each bargraph is

hown in a different color. In the table just above the bargraph, the following information is displayed:

s

Parameter Description

Frequency

Level Shows the current power level for the selected detectors (for details see Selecting the

Displays the receiver frequency (for details refer to the Frequency softkey)

Detector).

The R&S ESL expands the table after the selection of the Bargraph Maxhold. In this case, the R&S ESL
additionally displays the value for the maximum power level and the corresponding frequency.

In the lower area, the results of the scan measurement (preliminary or final) are shown. The R&S ESL
can measure up to 6 detectors simultaneously. They are assigned to traces 1 to 6. Since the detectors
are set only once, it is not possible to measure with different detectors in different subranges.

Softkeys of the sweep menu

Pressing the SWEEP key opens the menu to configure and start the scan.

Command

Scan Control

Edit Scan Table

Adjust Axis

Insert Range

Delete Range

10dB Min On/Off

Freq Axis Lin/Log

A scan is defined in the form of tables or it is performed using the current setting.

In the Scan table, the scan subranges are defined. Each scan range is specified by start frequency,
stop frequency, step width and the measurement parameters that are valid for this range.

The scan can be performed as a single scan or continuously (softkeys Single Scan and Continuous
Scan).

Scanning is started with the RUN key.

1300.5053.12 4.20 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Scan Control

Opens the Scan Control dialog box. In the dialog box select if the R&S ESL should run a single
or a continous scan. In case of a single scan the R&S ESL stops the measurement after exactly
one scan of the frequency range. Select also if the R&S ESL should use the current receiver
settings or if the settings of the scan table are to be used for the scan.

The default settings are Continous Scan and Use Scan table.

 Remote: INIT2:CONT ON | OFF

 Remote: SCAN:RANG 1…10

 Remote: SCAN:RANG 0 (use current settings)

Edit Scan Table

Opens the Edit Scan Table dialog box. Set the parameters for each subrange to be scanned.

By default, two ranges are defined.

The following parameters can be set:

Scan Start

Scan Stop

Step Mode

Start

Stop

1300.5053.12 4.21 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Step Size

Res BW

Meas Time

Auto Ranging

Auto Ranging

RF Attn

Preamp

Auto Preamp

Scan Start

Enter the start frequency of the scan in this field (refer also to the Start Frequency softkey of
the frequency menu.

Range is f

 Remote: FREQ:STAR <value>

Scan Stop

min

to f

. – 10 Hz

max

Enter the stop frequency of the scan in this field (refer also to the Stop Frequency softkey of the
frequency menu.

to f

Range is f

 Remote: FREQ:STOP <value>

Step Mode

min

max

.

Selects the frequency switching mode. Linear or logarithmic frequency switching can be
selected. The selected setting is valid for all scan ranges.

Lin Linear frequency switching

Auto Linear frequency switching.

The step width is selected automatically
depending on the set resolution bandwidth so
that all signals occurring in the scan range are
reliably detected without any significant
measurement error (about one third of resolution
bandwidth

Log Logarithmic frequency switching.

The frequency is incremented in % of the current
frequency.

 Remote: SWE:SPAC LIN

1300.5053.12 4.22 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Start

Sets the start frequency of the subrange in focus. The start frequency of a subrange must be
equal to or greater than the stop frequency of the previous subrange.

On entering the start frequency, the preceding scan range is – if necessary – adapted
automatically to avoid overlapping of scan ranges.

 Remote: SCAN1:STAR <value>

Stop

Sets the stop frequency of the subrange in focus. The stop frequency of a subrange must be
equal to or greater than the start frequency of the subrange.

On entering the stop frequency, the preceding scan range is – if necessary – adapted
automatically to avoid overlapping of scan ranges.

 Remote. SCAN1:STOP <value>

Step Size

Sets the step size of the subrange in focus. In the case of linear frequency increments, step
widths between 1 Hz and the maximum frequency can be set. When a step size greater than the
scan range is entered (from start to stop), the R&S ESL performs a measurement each at the
start and stop frequency.

With logarithmic frequency increments, values between 0.1% and 100% can be set in steps of

0.1%.

With Step Auto selected, the step size cannot be changed because it is automatically set with
respect to the IF bandwidth.

 Remote: SCAN1:STEP <value>

Res BW

Sets the bandwidth resolution of the subrange in focus. In the case of quasipeak weighting,
usually a fixed bandwidth is set which cannot be changed (CISPR).

However, the coupling of the IF bandwidth to the frequency range can be cancelled using
softkey CISPR RBW Uncoupled in the bandwidth menu.

 Remote: SCAN1:BAND:RES <num_value>

Meas Time

Sets the measurement time of the subrange in focus. The measurement time can be set
between 50 Es and 100 s separately for each subrange. In the case of quasipeak weighting, the
minimum is 10 ms. For the CISPR AV and CISPR RMS detectors the minimum measurement
time is 100 ms The measurement time can be set independently for each scan range.

 Remote: SCAN1:TIME <value>

1300.5053.12 4.23 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Auto Ranging

Risk of damage to the input mixer

NOTICE

Define whether or not the R&S ESL should automatically set the range..

ON The R&S ESL automatically sets the input

OFF The input attenuation setting of the scan

 Remote: SCAN1:INP:ATT:AUTO ON

If 0 dB RF attenuation is used with autoranging, care must be taken that the
permissible signal level at the RF input is not exceeded.

Exceeding this level would causes damage to the input mixer

The 0 dB attenuation should under no circumstances be used when RFI voltage
measurements are performed with the aid of artificial networks since very high
pulses occur during phase switching.

attenuation as a function of the signal level.

table is used.

RF Attn

Sets the RF attenuation for each subrange.

 Remote: SCAN1:INP:ATT <value>

Preamp (option RF Preamplifier, B22)

Activates or deactivates the preamplifier. The preamplifier can be switched on/off separately for
each subrange.

 Remote: SCAN1:INP:GAIN ON

Auto Preamp (option RF Preamplifier, B22)

ON The preamplifier is considered in autoranging. It is

only cut in after the attenuation has been reduced
to the minimum settable value.

OFF Auto ranging without preamplification.

 Remote: SCAN1:INP:GAIN:AUTO ON

Adjust Axis

The Adjust Axis softkey automatically sets the limits of the diagram so that the lower limit
frequency corresponds to the start frequency of range 1 and the upper limit frequency to the
stop frequency of the last range.

1300.5053.12 4.24 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Insert Range

The Insert Range softkey inserts an additional range that can be defined as described under the
Edit Scan Table softkey. A maximum number of 10 ranges can be inserted (Range 1 – 10). The
softkey is only available if the cursor is on a field inside the table.

Delete Range

The Delete Range softkey clears the activated scan range. All other ranges are shifted to the
left by one column. The softkey is only available if the cursor is on a field inside the table.

10dB Min On/Off

For details refer to the 10 dB Min On Off softkey in the amplitude menu.

Freq Axis Lin/Log

The Freq Axis Lin/Log switches between linear and logarithmic display of the frequency axis.

Default is Log.

 Remote: DISP:TRAC:X:SPAC LOG

1300.5053.12 4.25 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Triggering the Scan – TRIG Key

The TRIG key opens a menu for selection of the trigger sources and the trigger polarity. The active
trigger mode is indicated by highlighting the corresponding softkey.

To indicate that a trigger mode other than Free Run has been set, the enhancement label TRG is
displayed on the screen. If two windows are displayed, TRG appears next to the appropriate window.

To open the trigger menu

 Press the TRIG key.

The trigger menu is displayed.

Menu and softkey description

– Softkeys of the trigger menu

Softkeys of the trigger menu

Command

Trg / Gate Source

Trg / Gate Level

Trg / Gate Polarity Pos Neg

Trg / Gate Source

The Trg / Gate softkey opens a list, in which the trigger source can be selected. The following
trigger sources are available.

Free Run

External

Video

Free Run

The Free Run radio button activates the free-run sweep mode, i.e. start of a scan is not
triggered. Once a measurement is completed, another is started immediately.

Free Run is the default setting of the R&S ESL.

 Remote: TRIG:SOUR IMM

External

The Extern radio button activates triggering via a TTL signal at the input connector Ext Trigger /
Gate on the rear panel.

 Remote: TRIG:SOUR EXT

1300.5053.12 4.26 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Video

The Video radio button activates triggering via the displayed voltage.

For the video triggering mode, a level line showing the trigger threshold is displayed. Using the
level line, the threshold can be adjusted between 0% and100% of the diagram height.

 Remote: TRIG:SOUR VID

 Remote: TRIG:LEV:VID 50 PCT

Trg / Gate Level

Opens an edit dialog box to enter the trigger / gate level.

 Remote: TRIG:LEV:EXT

 Remote: TRIG:LEV:VID 50 PCT

Trg / Gate Polarity Pos Neg

The Polarity Pos / Neg softkey selects the polarity of the trigger source.

The scan starts after a positive or negative edge of the trigger signal. The selected setting is
highlighted.

The selection is valid for all trigger modes with the exception of Free Run.

The default setting is Polarity Pos.

 Remote: TRIG:SLOP POS

1300.5053.12 4.27 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Selection and Setting of Traces – TRACE Key

The R&S ESL is capable of displaying up to six different traces at a time in a diagram. A trace consists
of a maximum of 501 pixels on the horizontal axis. If more measured values than pixels are available,
several measured values are combined in one pixel.

The traces are selected using the Select Trace softkey in the menu of the TRACE key.

The traces can individually be activated for a measurement or frozen after completion of a
measurement. Traces that are not activated are blanked.

The display mode can be selected for each trace. Traces can be overwritten in each measurement
(Clear/Write mode), or a maximum or minimum value can be determined from several measurements
and displayed (Max Hold or Min Hold).

Individual detectors can be selected for the various traces. For example, the max peak detector and min
peak detector display the maximum and minimum value of the level within a pixel. The RMS detector
displays the power (RMS value) of the measured values within a pixel, the average detector the
average value. Further details on available detectors are discussed below.

To open the trace menu

 Press the TRACE key

The trace menu is displayed. The Trace Configuration dialog box is displayed.

Menu and softkey description

– Softkeys of the trace menu

Further information

– Selection of Trace Function

– Selecting the Detector

– Selection of Detectors for Final Measurement

– ASCII File Export – file header example

Selection of Trace Function

The trace functions are subdivided as follows:

• Display mode of trace (Clear Write, View and Blank)

• Evaluation of the trace as a whole (Max Hold and Min Hold)

• Evaluation of individual pixels of a trace (Peak, Min Peak, Average, RMS, Quasipeak, CISPR AV

and CISPR RMS).

1300.5053.12 4.28 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Selecting the Detector

The following detectors are available:

• The peak detector displays the highest sample values of the measured levels during the set
measurement time.

• The min peak detector displays the lowest sample values of the levels measured during the set
measurement time.

• The average detector displays the average level of the samples measured during the set
measurement time.

• The CISPR average detector supplies a weighted average. When measuring the average according
to CISPR 16-1-1, the maximum value of the linear average during the measurement time is
displayed. The detector is used, for example, to measure pulsed sinusoidal signals with a low pulse
frequency. It is calibrated with the RMS value of an unmodulated sinusoidal signal. Averaging is
done with lowpass filters of the 2nd order (simulation of a mechanical instrument). The lowpass
time constants and the IF bandwidths are fixed depending on the frequency. The main parameters
are listed in the following table:

Frequency range <150 kHz 150 kHz to 30 MHz 30 MHz to 1 GHz >1 GHz

IF bandwidth 200 Hz 9 kHz 120 kHz 1 MHz

Time constant of instrument 160 ms 160 ms 100 ms 100 ms

Band A Band B Band C / D Band E

1 kHz

Coupling of the IF bandwidth to the frequency range with the CISPR average detector activated can
be switched off by the QP RBW Uncoupled softkey.

• The RMS detector displays the root mean square (RMS) level of the samples measured. The
integration time corresponds to the set measurement time.

• The CISPR RMS detector supplies a weighted average. When measuring the average according to

CISPR 16-1-1, the maximum value of the linear average during the measurement time is displayed.
The detector is used, for example, to measure pulsed sinusoidal signals with a low pulse frequency.
It is calibrated with the RMS value of an unmodulated sinusoidal signal. Averaging is done with
lowpass filters of the 2nd order (simulation of a mechanical instrument). The lowpass time
constants and the IF bandwidths are fixed depending on the frequency. The main parameters are
listed in the following table:

Frequency range <150 kHz 150 kHz to 30 MHz 30 MHz to 1 GHz >1 GHz

IF bandwidth 200 Hz 9 kHz 120 kHz 1 MHz

Band A Band B Band C / D Band E

Time constant of instrument 160 ms 160 ms 100 ms 100 ms

Corner frequency 10 Hz 100 Hz 100 Hz 1 kHz

1300.5053.12 4.29 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

• The quasipeak detector displays the maximum detected value weighted to CISPR 16. Depending
on the set frequency, the R&S ESL automatically selects the detectors and IF bandwidths defined
for bands A, B and C/D listed in the following table:

Frequency range <150 kHz 150 kHz to 30 MHz >30 MHz

IF bandwidth 200 Hz 9 kHz 120 kHz

Charge time constant 45 ms 1 ms 1 ms

Discharge time constant 150 ms 500 ms 550 ms

Time constant of instrument 160 ms 160 ms 100 ms

Band A Band B Band C / D

For frequencies above 1 GHz, the R&S ESL uses the 120 kHz bandwidth of band C/D.

The coupling of the IF bandwidth to the frequency range with activated quasipeak detector can be
cancelled using the QP RBW Uncoupled softkey.

• The input signal of R&S ESL can be displayed weighted by four detectors simultaneously.

Multiple detection is important in EMI measurements since, for example, commercial standards specify
limits for both the quasipeak and the average value. Thanks to the multiple use of detectors, only one
test run is needed. The peak detector can be combined with any other detector since it is the fastest
detector and therefore ideal for overview measurements.

Selection of Detectors for Final Measurement

To define the detectors used in the final measurement, press the Final Meas Detector softkey in the
trace menu and select one of the available detectors.

The detectors to be used for the final measurement can be set here for each trace, i.e. any combination
of scan and final measurement is possible. The required flexibility is thus obtained for the diverse test
specifications which are covered by means of the R&S ESL.

1300.5053.12 4.30 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Figure 4-1: Results of scan and final measurements

ASCII File Export – file header example

Table 4-3: Example: File header

File contents Description

Type; R&S ESL Instrument model

Version;1.00; Firmware version

Date;10. Nov 03 Date of data set storage

Mode;Receiver Instrument mode

Start;150000.000000;Hz
Stop;1000000000.000000;Hz

x-axis;LOG; Scaling of x-axis:linear (LIN) or logarithmic (LOG)

Detector;Average; Selected detector:

Scan Count;1; Scan Count

1300.5053.12 4.31 E-2

Start / stop of the display range
Unit: Hz

Maxpeak, Minpeak, Average, RMS, Quasipeak

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Transducer;; Transducer name (if switched on)

Table 4-4: Example: Data section of the file, scan ranges

File contents Description

Scan 1; Settings for scan range 1

Start;150000.000000;Hz Range 1 – start frequency in Hz

Stop;30000000.000000;Hz Range 1 – stop frequency in Hz

Step;4000.000000;Hz Range 1 – step size

RBW;9000.000000;Hz Range 1 – resolution bandwidth

Meas Time;0.001000;s Range 1 – measurement time

Auto Ranging;OFF; Range 1 – auto ranging on or off

RF Att;10.000000;dB Range 1 – input attenuation

Auto Preamp;OFF; Range 1 – auto preamp on or off

Preamp;0.000000;dB Range 1 – preamplifier on (20dB) or off (0dB)

Scan 2: Settings for scan range 2

Start;30000000.000000;Hz Range 2 – start frequency in Hz

Stop;1000000000.000000;Hz Range 2 – stop frequency in Hz

Step; 50000.000000;Hz Range 2 – step size

RBW;120000.000000;Hz Range 2 – resolution bandwidth

Meas Time;0.000100;s Range 2 – measurement time

Auto Ranging;OFF; Range 2 – auto ranging on or off

RF Att;10.000000;dB Range 2 – input attenuation

Auto Preamp;OFF; Range 2 – Auto Preamp on or off

Preamp;0.000000;dB Range 2 – preamplifier on (20dB) or off (0dB)

Table 4-5: Example: Data section of the file, trace

File contents Description

Trace 1: Selected trace

Trace Mode;CLR/WRITE Trace mode: Clear Write, Maxhold

x-Unit;Hz; Unit of x values: Hz for span > 0

y-Unit;dBEV Unit of y values: dB*/V/A/W depending on the selected

Values;26863; Number of tested points

150000.000000;15.604355;

154000.000000;13.236252;

158000.000000;11.907021;
…;…;

unit

Measured values: <x-value>;<y-value>

1300.5053.12 4.32 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Softkeys of the trace menu

The TRACE key opens a menu offering the setting options for the selected trace.

In this menu, the mode of representing the measured data in the frequency or time domain in the
625 pixels of the display is determined. Upon start of the measurement, each trace can be displayed
either completely new or based on the previous results.

Traces can be displayed, blanked and copied.

The measurement detector for the individual display modes can be selected directly by the user.

The default setting is trace 1 in the overwrite mode (Clear Write) and detector Max Peak is selected.
The other traces are in Blank mode..

The Clear Write, Max Hold, Min Hold, View and Blank softkeys are mutually exclusive selection keys.

Menu / Command Command

Trace 1 2 3 4 5 6

Trace Mode Clear Write

Max Hold

Min Hold

View

Blank

Scan Detector Peak

Min Peak

Average

RMS

Quasipeak

CISPR AV

CISPR RMS

Final Meas Detector Final Peak

Final Min Peak

Final Average

Final RMS

Final Quasipeak

More

Final CISPR AV

Final CISPR RMS

Scan Count

Peak List On Off

More

Copy Trace

ASCII File Export

Decim Sep

1300.5053.12 4.33 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Trace 1 2 3 4 5 6

Select a specific trace with the Trace 1 2 3 4 5 6 softkey.

 Remote: ---(selected via numeric suffix of :TRACe)

race Mode

T

Opens a submenu from which the trace mode can be selected. For details see "Trace mode

overview" on page 4.114..

The following trace modes are available:

Clear Write

Max Hold

Min Hold

View

Blank

Clear Write

Selects the Clear Write mode. For details see "Trace mode overview" on page 4.114.

 Remote: DISP:TRAC:MODE WRIT

Max Hold

Selects the Max Hold mode. For details see "Trace mode overview" on page 4.114.

 Remote: DISP:TRAC:MODE MAXH

Min Hold

Selects the Min Hold mode. For details see "Trace mode overview" on page 4.114.

 Remote: DISP:TRAC:MODE MINH

View

Selects the View mode. For details see "Trace mode overview" on page 4.114.

 Remote: DISP:TRAC:MODE VIEW

Blank

Selects the Blank mode. For details see "Trace mode overview" on page 4.114.

 Remote: DISP:TRAC OFF

1300.5053.12 4.34 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Scan Detector

Selects the detector to be used for a scan measurement. The detector can be set independently
for each trace.

The following detector types are available for scan measurements:

Peak

Min Peak

Average

RMS

Quasipeak

CISPR AV

CISPR RMS

For details on the detetcor types refer to Selecting the Detector on page 4.29

 Remote: DET POS

Peak

The Peak softkey selects the peak detector.

 Remote: DET POS

Min Peak

The Min Peak softkey selects the min peak detector.

 Remote: DET NEG

Average

The Average softkey selects the average detector.

 Remote: DET AVER

RMS

The RMS softkey selects the quasipeak detector.

 Remote: DET RMS

Quasipeak

The Quasipeak softkey selects the quasipeak detector.

The IF bandwidth is adapted as a function of the frequency range. The coupling of the IF
bandwidth to the frequency range can be cancelled using the softkey QP RBW Uncoupled.

 Remote: DET:QPE

1300.5053.12 4.35 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

CISPR AV

The CISPR AV softkey selects the weighting average detector according to CISPR 16-1 for the
final measurement.

 Remote: DET:CAV

CISPR RMS

The CISPR RMS softkey selects the weighting RMS detector according to CISPR 16-1-1 for the
final measurement.

 Remote: DET:CRMS

Final Meas Detector

Selects the detector to be used in the final measurement. The detector can be selected
independently for each trace.

The following detector types are available for preliminary measurements:

Final Peak

Final Min Peak

Final Average

Final RMS

Final Quasipeak

Final CISPR AV

Final CISPR RMS

For details on the detector types refer to Selecting the Detector on page 4.29

 Remote: DET:FME POS

Final Peak

The Final Peak selects the peak detector for the final measurement.

 Remote: DET:FME POS

Final Min Peak

The Final Min Peak selects the min peak detector for the final measurement.

 Remote: DET:FME NEG

Final Average

The Final Average selects the average detector for the final measurement.

 Remote: DET:FME AVER

1300.5053.12 4.36 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Final RMS

The Final RMS selects the RMS detector for the final measurement.

 Remote: DET:FME RMS

inal Quasipeak

F

The Final Quasipeak selects the quasipeak detector for the final measurement.

 Remote: DET:FME QPE

Final CISPR AV

The Final CISPR AV selects the weighting average detector according to CISPR 16-1 for the
final measurement.

 Remote: DET:FME CAV

Final CISPR RMS

The Final CISPR RMS softkey selects the weighting RMS detector according to CISPR 16-1-1
for the final measurement.

 Remote: DET:FME CRMS

Scan Count

The Scan Count softkey opens an edit dialog box to enter the number of scans used in Single
Scan mode.

The allowed range of values is 0 to 30000. The default setting is 1.

 Remote: SWE:COUN 10

Peak List On Off

The Peak List On Off softkey switches on and off the indication of the peak list or of the final
measurement results in the diagram. Each peak value is indicated as a symbol (e.g. an x or a +).
The symbol in use varies from one trace to another to better distinguish the traces from one
another The assignment of symbol to trace is fixed.

Run Scan automatically switches Peak List to OFF in order to prevent the indication of
preceding final measurement results. Peak Search automatically sets Peak List to ON (see Data

Reduction and Peak List on page 4.50).

 Remote: DISP:TRAC:SYMB CROS

Copy Trace

The Copy Trace softkey copies the screen contents of the current trace into another trace
memory. The desired memory is selected by entering the number 1, 2 or 3.

Upon copying, the contents of the selected memory are overwritten and the new contents
displayed in view mode.

 Remote: TRAC:COPY TRACE1,TRACE2

1300.5053.12 4.37 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

ASCII File Export

The ASCII FILE Export softkey stores the active trace in ASCII format on a memory stick.

The file consists of the header containing important scaling parameters, several data sections
containing the scan settings and a data section containing the trace data.

The data of the file header consist of three columns, each separated by a semicolon:

parameter name; numeric value; base unit

The data section for the scan ranges starts with the keyword "Scan <n>:", (<n> = number of
scan range), followed by the scan data in one or several columns which are also separated by a
semicolon.

The data section for the trace date starts with the keyword " Trace <n> " (<n> = number of
stored trace), followed by the measured data in one or several columns which are also
separated by a semicolon.

This format can be read in from spreadsheet calculation programs, e.g. MS Excel. It is
necessary to define ';' as a separator.

Note: Different language versions of evaluation programs may require a different handling of the

decimal point. It is therefore possible to select between separators '.' (decimal point) and ','
(comma) using softkey Decim Sep.

 Remote: FORM ASC;

 Remote: MMEM:STOR:TRAC 1,'TRACE.DAT'

Decim Sep

The Decim Sep softkey selects the decimal separator between '.' (decimal point) and ','
(comma) with floating-point numerals for the function ASCII File Export.

With the selection of the decimal separator different language versions of evaluation programs
(e.g. MS Excel) can be supported.

 Remote: FORM:DEXP:DSEP POIN

1300.5053.12 4.38 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Measurement Functions

In this section all menus necessary for setting measurement functions are described. This includes the
following topics and keys:

• “Marker Functions – MKR Key” on page 4.40

• “Change of Settings via Markers – MKR-> Key” on page 4.44

• “Selection of the Measurement Function – MEAS Key” on page 4.48

• “Running a Scan – RUN key" on page 4.66

• "Using Limit Lines and Display Lines – LINES Key” on page 4.184

1300.5053.12 4.39 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

Marker Functions – MKR Key

The markers are used for marking points on traces, reading out measurement results and for quickly
selecting a display section. The R&S ESL provides four markers per trace.

Marker

M1

Delta marker

Fig. 4-1: Marker types

All markers can be used either as markers or delta markers. The marker that can be moved by the user
is defined in the following as the active marker. Temporary markers are used in addition to the markers
and delta markers to evaluate the measurement results. They disappear when the associated function
is deactivated..

The measurement results of the active marker (also called marker values) are displayed in the marker
field. The marker field is located at the upper right corner of the display and shows the following:

• marker type (M1 in the example)

• trace in square brackets ([1] in the example)

• level (–33.09 dBm in the example)

• marker location (3 GHz in the example)

Active marker Temporary marker

M3

D2

T1

Fig. 4-2: Marker values

The MKR key is used to select and position the absolute and relative measurement markers (markers
and delta markers). In addition, the functions for frequency counter, fixed reference point for relative
measurement markers and enlargement of the measurement area are assigned to this key.

To open the marker menu

 Press the MKR key

The marker menu is displayed. If no marker is active, marker 1 is activated and a peak search on
the trace is carried out. Otherwise, the edit dialog box for the last activated marker is opened and
the current frequency / time value is displayed.

Menu and softkey description

– Softkeys of the marker menu

1300.5053.12 4.40 E-2

R&S ESL Instrument Functions – Receiver

Softkeys of the marker menu

Command

Marker 1

Marker 2

Marker Norm Delta

More

Marker 3

Marker 4

Marker to Trace

All Marker Off

Marker Zoom

Previous Zoom Range

Marker Zoom Off

Marker 1 Marker 2 Marker 3 Marker 4 Marker Norm Delta

The Marker <no> softkey selects the corresponding marker and activates it.

Marker 1 is always the reference marker for relative measurements. After they have been
switched on, Markers 2 to 4 are delta markers that refer to Marker 1. These markers can be
converted into markers with absolute value display by means of the Marker Norm Delta softkey.
If Marker 1 is the active marker, pressing the Marker Norm Delta softkey switches on an
additional delta marker.

Pressing the Marker <no> softkey again switches off the selected marker.

Example:

Press the MKR key.

On calling the menu, Marker 1 is switched on (softkey Marker 1 is highlighted) and
positioned on the maximum value of the trace. It is a normal marker and the Marker Normal
softkey is highlighted.

Press the Marker 2 softkey.

Marker 2 is switched on (softkey Marker 2 is highlighted). It is automatically defined as a
delta marker on switching on so the Delta is highlighted on softkey Marker Norm Delta. The
frequency and level of Marker 2 with reference to Marker 1 are output in the marker info field.

Press the Marker Norm Delta softkey.

The Marker Norm Delta softkey is highlighted. Marker 2 becomes a normal marker. The
frequency and level of Marker 2 are output as absolute values in the marker info field.

Press the Marker 2 softkey.

Marker 2 is switched off. Marker 1 is the active marker for entry. The frequency and level of
Marker 1 are output in the marker info field.

1300.5053.12 4.41 E-2

Instrument Functions – Receiver R&S ESL

If several traces are being displayed, the marker is set to the maximum value (peak) of the

ctive trace which has the lowest number (1 to 6). In case a marker is already located there, it

a
will be set to the frequency of the next lowest level (next peak).

A marker can only be enabled when at least one trace in the corresponding window is visible.

f a trace is turned off, the corresponding markers and marker functions are also deactivated. If

I
the trace is switched on again (View, Clr/Write;..), the markers along with coupled functions will
be restored to their original positions provided the markers have not been used on another trace.

 Remote: CALC:MARK ON;

 Remote: CALC:MARK:X <value>;

 Remote: CALC:MARK:Y?

 Remote: CALC:DELT ON;

 Remote: CALC:DELT:MODE ABS

 Remote: CALC:DELT:X <value>;

 Remote: CALC:DELT:X:REL?

 Remote: CALC:DELT:Y?

Marker to Trace

The MKR->Trace softkey places the marker on a new trace. The trace is selected via a data
entry field. Only those traces can be selected which are visible on the screen in the same
window.

Example:

Three traces are presented on the screen. The marker is always on Trace 1 on switching on.
Press the MKR->Trace softkey and enter the number ‘2’.

The marker jumps to Trace 2 but remains on the previous frequency or time.
Press the MKR->Trace softkey and enter the number ‘3’.

The marker jumps to Trace 3.

 Remote: CALC:MARK1:TRAC 1

 Remote: CALC:DELT:TRAC 1

All Marker Off

Pressing the All Marker Off softkey switches off all marker.

 Remote: CALC:MARK:AOFF

Marker Zoom

The Marker Zoom softkey zooms 10% of the diagram around the current marker. It opens at the
same time a data entry field which allows to enter any frequency range which is then displayed.

Pressing the softkey again expands the diagram such that only 3 measured values are
represented.

 Remote: CALC:MARK:FUNC:ZOOM <num_value>

1300.5053.12 4.42 E-2