Tektronix S46 Instruction Manual

www.keithley.com

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System

Instruction Manual

S46-901-01 Rev. E / March 2009

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WARRANTY

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship
for a period of one (1) year from date of shipment.

Keithley Instruments, Inc. warrants the following items for 90 days from the date of shipment:
probes, cables, software, rechargeable batteries, diskettes, and documentation.

During the warranty period, Keithley Instruments will, at its option, either repair or replace any product that
proves to be defective.

To exercise this warranty, write or call your local Keithley Instruments representative, or contact
Keithley Instruments headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. You will be given prompt assistance and
return instructions. Send the product, transportation prepaid, to the indicated service facility. Repairs
will be made and the product returned, transportation prepaid. Repaired or replaced products are
warranted for the balance of the original warranty period, or at least 90 days.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY

This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from product modification without Keithley
Instruments’ express written consent, or misuse of any product or part. This warranty also does not
apply to fuses, software, non-rechargeable batteries, damage from battery leakage, or problems
arising from normal wear or failure to follow instructions.

THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR USE. THE REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE THE BUYER’S SOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES.

NEITHER KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS, INC. NOR ANY OF ITS EMPLOYEES SHALL BE LIABLE
FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF ITS INSTRUMENTS AND SOFTWARE, EVEN IF KEITHLEY
INSTRUMENTS, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED IN ADVANCE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGES. SUCH EXCLUDED DAMAGES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COST
OF REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION, LOSSES SUSTAINED AS THE RESULT OF INJURY TO ANY
PERSON, OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

A G R E A T E R M E A S U R E O F C O N F I D E N C E

Keithley Instruments, Inc.

Corporate Headquarters • 28775 Aurora Road • Cleveland, Ohio 44139

440-248-0400 • Fax: [phone] • 1-888-KEITHLEY (1-888-534-8453) • www.keithley.com

3/07

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System

Instruction Manual

©2001-2009, Keithley Instruments, Inc.

All rights reserved.

Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.

Document Number: S46-901-01 Rev. E

Manual Print History

The print history shown below lists the printing dates of all Revisions and Addenda created
for this manual. The Revision Level letter increases alphabetically as the manual undergoes sub
sequent updates. Addenda, which are released between Revisions, contain important change in­formation that the user should incorporate immediately into the manual. Addenda are numbered
sequentially. When a new Revision is created, all Addenda associated with the previous Revi
sion of the manual are incorporated into the new Revision of the manual. Each new Re vision
includes a revised copy of this print history page.

Revision A (Document Number S46-901-01)...................................................................March 2001

Revision B (Document Number S46-901-01)......................................................................May 2003

Revision C (Document Number S46-901-01).............................................................December 2005

Revision D (Document Number S46-901-01).....................................................................April 2008

Revision E (Document Number S46-901-01) ................... .... ... ... ......................................March 2009

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All Keithley product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Keithley Instruments, Inc.
Other brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any associated instrumentation.
Although some instruments and accessories would normally be used with non-hazardous voltages, there are
situations where hazardous conditions may be present.

This product is intended for use by qualified personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety
precautions required to avoid possible injury. Read and follow all installation, operation, and maintenance
information carefully before using the product. Refer to the user documentation for complete product specifications.

If the product is used in a manner not specified, the protection provided by the product warranty may be impaired.
The types of product users are:
Responsible body is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, for ensuring

that the equipment is operated within its specifications and operating limits, and for ensuring that operators are
adequately trained.

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

Maintenance personnel perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating properly, for example,
setting the line voltage or replacing consumable materials. Maintenance procedures are described in the user
documentation. The procedures explicitly state if the operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be
performed only by service personnel.

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

Keithley Instruments products are designed for use with electrical signals that are rated Measurement Category I
and Measurement Category II, as described in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC

60664. Most measurement, control, and data I/O signals are Measurement Category I and must not be directly
connected to mains voltage or to voltage sources with high transient over-voltages. Measurement Category II
connections require protection for high transient over-voltages often associated with local AC mains connections.
Assume all measurement, control, and data I/O connections are for connection to Category I sources unless
otherwise marked or described in the user documentation.

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

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

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

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

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

Safety Precautions

11/ 07

For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments while power is applied to the

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circuit under test. ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before:
connecting or disconnecting cables or jumpers, installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes,
such as installing or removing jumpers.

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

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

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

When fuses are used in a product, replace with the same type and rating for continued protection against fire hazard.
Chassis connections must only be used as shield connections for measuring circuits, NOT as safety earth ground

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

requires the use of a lid interlock.

If a screw is present, connect it to safety earth ground using the wire recommended in the user documentation.

The symbol on an instrument indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the
documentation.

The symbol on an instrument shows that it can source or measure 1000 volts or more, including the combined
effect of normal and common mode voltages. Use standard safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these
voltages.

The symbol on an instrument shows that the surface may be hot. Avoid personal contact to prevent burns.

The symbol indicates a connection terminal to the equipment frame.

If this symbol is on a product, it indicates that mercury is present in the display lamp. Please note that the lamp
must be properly disposed of according to federal, state, and local laws.

The WARNING heading in the user documentation explains dangers that might result in personal injury or death.
Always read the associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.

The CAUTION heading in the user documentation explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such
damage may invalidate the warranty.

Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.
Before performing any maintenance, disconnect the line cord and all test cables.
To maintain protection from electric shock and fire, replacement components in mains circuits - including the power

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

To clean an instrument, use a damp cloth or mild, water-based cleaner. Clean the exterior of the instrument only. Do
not apply cleaner directly to the instrument or allow liquids to enter or spill on the instrument. Products that consist
of a circuit board with no case or chassis (e.g., data acquisition board for installation into a computer) should never
require cleaning if handled according to instructions. If the board becomes contaminated and operation is affected,
the board should be returned to the factory for proper cleaning/servicing.

Table of Contents

1 General Information

Introduction................................................................................. 1-2

Feature overview......................................................................... 1-2

Warranty information .................................................................. 1-3

Manual addenda .......................................................................... 1-3

Safety symbols and terms ........................................................... 1-3

Specifications .............................................................................. 1-3

Unpacking and inspection........................................................... 1-4

Inspection for damage ......................................................... 1-4

Shipment contents ............................................................... 1-4

Instruction manual .............................................................. 1-4

Repacking for shipment ...................................................... 1-4

Available accessories................................................................... 1-4

SMA cables and torque wrench .......................................... 1-5

Relay kits ............................................................................ 1-5

Replacement relays ............................................................. 1-7

Connections................................................................................. 1-7

Installation................................................................................... 1-7

Rack mounting .................................................................... 1-7

Foot mounting ..................................................................... 1-8

2 Operation

Introduction................................................................................. 2-2

Signal considerations .................................................................. 2-2

Bus operation (GPIB).................................................................. 2-2

Bus connections .................................................................. 2-2

Primary address ................................................................... 2-3

Programming syntax ........................................................... 2-3

Response messages ............................................................. 2-7

GPIB commands ......................................................................... 2-8

ROUTe commands .............................................................. 2-8

STATus commands ............................................................ 2-11

SYSTem commands .......................................................... 2-13

Status model.............................................................................. 2-15

Event register sets ............................................................. 2-16

Enable registers ................................................................. 2-17

Queues .............................................................................. 2-17

Status byte and SRQ ......................................................... 2-19

Service request enable register .......................................... 2-20

Serial polling and SRQ ..................................................... 2-20

Clearing registers and queues.................................................... 2-21

Programming enable registers................................................... 2-22

Reading registers ............................................................... 2-22

Common commands.................................................................. 2-23

Errors ......................................................................................... 2-32

3 Connections

Introduction ................................................................................. 3-2

Handling precautions................................................................... 3-2

System configuration................................................................... 3-2

Layout .................................................................................. 3-2

Simplified schematic ........................................................... 3-4

Connections ................................................................................. 3-6

Signal connections ............................................................... 3-6

GPIB control connection ..................................................... 3-8

Power connections ............................................................. 3-10

Ground connection ............................................................ 3-12

Switching considerations........................................................... 3-13

Connector integrity ............................................................ 3-13

Voltage standing wave ratio ............................................... 3-13

Path isolation ..................................................................... 3-13

Insertion loss ..................................................................... 3-14

RFI/EMI ............................................................................ 3-14

4 Service Information

Introduction ................................................................................. 4-2

Handling and cleaning precautions ............................................. 4-2

Handling precautions ........................................................... 4-2

Circuit board and connector cleaning .................................. 4-3

Environmental conditions .................................................... 4-3

Recommended equipment ................................................... 4-4

Channel resistance tests ....................................................... 4-4

RF performance verification ............................................... 4-5

Replacing components................................................................. 4-6

Replacing relays .................................................................. 4-6

Mainframe replacement parts .............................................. 4-7

Replacement precautions ..................................................... 4-7

Soldering considerations ..................................................... 4-7

Disassembly ........................................................................ 4-8

5 Replaceable Parts

Introduction ................................................................................. 5-2

Parts list ....................................................................................... 5-2

Ordering information................................................................... 5-2

Factory service............................................................................. 5-2

Component layout ....................................................................... 5-3

List of Illustrations

Figure 0-1 Rack preparation .................................................................... 1-8

Figure 0-2 Primary address DIP switch example .................................... 2-3

Figure 0-3 Command diagram ................................................................. 2-5

Figure 0-4 Controlling relay connections ................................................ 2-6

Figure 0-5 Status model structure ......................................................... 2-15

Figure 0-6 Standard event status ............................................................ 2-16

Figure 0-7 Status byte and service request (SRQ) ................................. 2-19

Figure 0-8 16-bit status register ............................................................. 2-22

Figure 0-9 Standard event enable register .............................................. 2-25

Figure 0-10 Standard event status register ............................................... 2-26

Figure 0-11 Service request enable register ............................................. 2-29

Figure 0-12 Status byte register ............................................................... 2-30

Figure 0-13 S46/S46T front panels ............................................................ 3-3

Figure 0-14 Rear panel—all models .......................................................... 3-3

Figure 0-15 Simplified schematic .............................................................. 3-5

Figure 0-16 Relay input/output connections .............................................. 3-7

Figure 0-17 GPIB control connector .......................................................... 3-8

Figure 0-18 Power supply fuse ................................................................ 3-12

Figure 0-19 Channel resistance test connections ....................................... 4-5

Figure 0-20 S46 exploded view ................................................................. 4-9

Figure 0-21 S46T exploded view ............................................................. 4-10

List of Tables

Table 0-1 Parameter types....................................................................... 2-4

Table 0-2 :ROUTe subsystem command set ........................................... 2-8

Table 0-3 Relay channel assignments ..................................................... 2-9

Table 0-4 :STATus subsystem command set......................................... 2-11

Table 0-5 :SYSTem subsystem command set ....................................... 2-13

Table 0-6 SCPI commands — error queue ........................................... 2-18

Table 0-7 Common and SCPI commands — reset registers and

Table 0-8 IEEE-488.2 common commands and queries....................... 2-23

Table 0-9 Error and status message ...................................................... 2-32

Table 0-10 Relay channel assignments..................................................... 3-6

Table 0-11 GPIB control connector terminals .......................................... 3-9

Table 0-12 Line fuse ............................................................................... 3-11

Table 0-13 Power supply fuse................................................................. 3-11

Table 0-14 Recommended verification equipment ................................... 4-4

Table 0-15 S46/S46T relay kits................................................................. 4-6

Table 0-16 S46/S46T digital board parts list ............................................ 5-4

Table 0-17 S46 mechanical parts list ........................................................ 5-6

clear queues 2-21

1

General Information

1-2 General Information S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

Introduction

This section contains general information about the S46/S46T Microwave Switch System.
The information is organized as follows:

• Feature overview

• Warranty information

• Manual addenda

• Safety symbols and terms

• Specifications

• Unpacking and inspection

• Connections

t^okfkd If the equipment is not used as recommended by the manufacturer, the

overall safety will be impaired.

If you have any questions after reviewing this information, please contact your local
Keithley representative or call one of our Applications Engineers at 1-800-KEITHLEY.
Worldwide phone numbers are listed at the front of this manual.

Feature overview

The System 46 (S46) is an IEEE-488 bus controlled 19-inch rack-mounted RF relay
switch controller unit. The standard S46 configurations can accommodate eight SPDT
unterminated coaxial microwave relays and four multi-pole, unterminated, coaxial micro­wave relays. Any of these multi-pole unterminated relays can be one of the following relay
types: SP4T or SP6T. S46 switching systems can be used as multiplexers, matrices, inde­pendent relays, or a combination of configurations. Additional features of the S46 are as
follows:

• Can be populated with up to eight 2-pole RF relays and a maximum of four, 4-pole,
or 6-pole RF relays.

• LED indicators for error, power, and relay status.

• Operating range to 40GHz (relay dependent).

The System 46T (S46T) is also an IEEE-488 bus controlled 19-inch rack-mounted RF
relay switch controller unit. In addition to the un-terminated configurations that the S46
provides, the S46T also has provisions to accommodate four terminated multi-pole, coax­ial microwave relays, or up to four transfer switches (DPDT) as well, with frequency
ranges up to 26.5GHz.

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual General Information 1-3

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Warranty information

Warranty information is located at the front of this instruction manual. Should your S46/
S46T require warranty service, contact the Keithley representative or authorized repair
facility in your area for further information. When returning the S46/S46T for repair, be
sure to fill out and include the service form at the back of this manual to provide the repair
facility with the necessary information.

Manual addenda

Any improvements or changes concerning the S46/S46T or manual will be explained in an
addendum included with the manual. Be sure to note these changes and incorporate them
into the manual.

Safety symbols and terms

The following symbols and terms may be found on the S46/S46T or used in this manual.

The symbol indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in
the manual.

The symbol on an instrument shows that the surface may be hot. Avoid personal con­tact to prevent burns.

The symbol shows that high voltage may be present on the terminal(s). Use standard
safety precautions to avoid personal contact with these voltages.

The WARNING heading used in this manual explains dangers that might result in per-
sonal injury or death. Always read the associated information very carefully before per­forming the indicated procedure.

The CAUTION heading used in this manual explains hazards that could damage the
switch. Such damage may invalidate the warranty.

Specifications

Full S46/S46T specifications are included in Appendix A. Check the Keithley website
(www.keithley.com) for latest updates to the specifications.

1-4 General Information S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

Unpacking and inspection

Inspection for damage

The S46/S46T was carefully inspected electrically and mechanically before shipment.
After unpacking all items from the shipping carton, check for any obvious signs of physi­cal damage that may have occurred during transit. Report any damage to the shipping
agent immediately. Save the original packing carton for possible future shipment.

Shipment contents

The following items are included with every S46/S46T order:

• S46/S46T Microwave Switch System (includes power cord).

• S46/S46T Instruction Manual (this manual) on CD. The installation instructions
(PA-778, PA-910, and PA-913) for the relay kits are also provided on this CD (see

“Relay kits” on page 5).

• Additional accessories as ordered.

Instruction manual

A Product Information CD-ROM that contains this Instruction Manual can be ordered
from Keithley. If a hardcopy of the S46 Instruction Manual is required, order the manual
package, Keithley Part Number S46-901-00. The manual package includes an instruction
manual and any pertinent addenda.

Always check the Keithley website (www.keithley.com) for the latest revision of the
manual. The latest manual can be downloaded (in PDF format) from the website.

Repacking for shipment

Should it become necessary to return the S46/S46T for repair, carefully pack the unit in its
original packing carton or the equivalent, and follow these instructions:

• Call the Repair Department at 1-800-552-1115 for a Return Material Authorization
(RMA) number.

• Advise as to the warranty status of the S46.

• Write ATTENTION REPAIR DEPARTMENT and the RMA number on the ship­ping label.

• Fill out and include the Service Form located at the back of this manual.

Available accessories

klqb Check the Keithley website (www.keithley.com) for additional accessories that

may have been added to the Keithley product line for the S46.

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual General Information 1-5

SMA cables and torque wrench

• S46-SMA-0.5 — DC–18GHz, Low loss, semi-flex SMA-to-SMA cable assembly,

0.152m (6 in.) in length.

• S46-SMA-1 — DC–18GHz, Low loss, semi-flex SMA-to-SMA cable assembly,

0.305m (12 in.) in length.

• S46-SMA-1.7 — DC–18GHz, Low Loss, Semi-Flex SMA-SMA Cable Assembly,

0.518m (20.4 in.)

• S46-SMA26-0.5 — DC–26.5GHz, Low Loss, Semi-Flex SMA-SMA Cable
Assembly, 0.152m (6 in.)

• S46-SMA26-1 — DC–26.5GHz, Low Loss, Semi-Flex SMA-SMA Cable Assem­bly, 0.305m (12 in.)

• S46-SMA26-1.7 — DC–26.5GHz, Low Loss, Semi-Flex SMA-SMA Cable
Assembly, 0.518m (20.4 in.)

• S46-TW — SMA cable torque wrench.

Relay kits

Relays can be added to your test system by ordering relay kits from Keithley. Each kit
includes a relay, a cable assembly, any necessary hardware and installation instructions.
The installation instructions are are also provided on the CD that is supplied with the S46/
S46T.

S46 switch kits

• S46-SPDT-KIT — Standard Performance 18GHz Unterminated SPDT Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SP4T-KIT — Standard Performance 18GHz Unterminated SP4T Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SP6T-KIT — Standard Performance 18GHz Unterminated SP6T Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SPDT-KIT-R — High Performance 18GHz Unterminated SPDT Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SP4T-KIT-R — High Performance 18GHz Unterminated SP4T Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SP6T-KIT-R — High Performance 18GHz Unterminated SP6T Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SPDT-KIT-26 — High Performance 26.5GHz Unterminated SPDT Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SP4T-KIT-26 — High Performance 26.5GHz Unterminated SP4T Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SP6T-KIT-26 — High Performance 26.5GHz Unterminated SP6T Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SPDT-KIT-40 — High Performance 40GHz Unterminated SPDT Relay and
Control Cable Assembly

1-6 General Information S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

• S46-SP4T-KIT-40 — High Performance 40GHz Unterminated SP4T Relay and

Control Cable Assembly

• S46-SP6T-KIT-40 — High Performance 40GHz Unterminated SP6T Relay and

Control Cable Assembly

S46T switch kits

• S46T-SPDT-KIT-26 — High Performance 26.5GHz Un-terminated SPDT Relay,

Spacer Block, and Control Cable Assembly

• S46T-SPDT-KIT-26T — High Performance 26.5GHz Terminated SPDT Relay

and Control Cable Assembly

• S46T-SP4T-KIT-26 — High Performance 26.5GHz Unterminated SP4T Relay,

Mounting Plate, and Control Cable Assembly

• S46T-SP4T-KIT-26T — High Performance 26.5GHz Terminated SP4T Relay and

Control Cable Assembly

• S46T-SP6T-KIT-26 — High Performance 26.5GHz Unterminated SP6T Relay,

Mounting Plate, and Control Cable Assembly,

• S46T-SP6T-KIT-26T — High Performance 26.5GHz Terminated SP6T Relay and

Control Cable Assembly

• S46T-SPDT-KIT — 18GHz Unterminated SPDT Relay, Spacer Block, and Con-

trol Cable Assembly

• S46T-SPDT-KIT-T — 18 GHz Terminated SPDT Relay and Control Cable

Assembly

• S46T-MSPDT-KIT — Quantity 2, 18GHz Unterminated SPDT Relays, Mounting

Plate, and Control Cable Assembly (Note: Kit applicable only for relay A-D
mounting locations)

• S46T-MSPDT-KIT-26 — Quantity 2, 26GHz Unterminated SPDT Relays, Mount-

ing Plate, and Control Cable Assembly (Note: Kit applicable only for relay A-D
mounting locations)

• S46T-SP4T-KIT — 18GHz Unterminated SP4T Relay, Mounting Plate, and Con-

trol Cable Assembly

• S46T-SP4T-KIT-T — 18GHz Terminated SP4T Relay and Control Cable Assem-

bly

• S46T-SP6T-KIT — 18GHz Unterminated SP6T Relay, Mounting Plate, and Con-

trol Cable Assembly

• S46T-SP6T-KIT-T — 18 GHz Terminated SP6T Relay and Control Cable Assem-

bly

• S46T-XFER-KIT — 18GHz Transfer Switch, Mounting Plate, and Control Cable

Assembly

• S46T-XFER-KIT-26 — 26.5GHz Transfer Switch, Mounting Plate, and Control

Cable Assembly

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual General Information 1-7

Replacement relays

klqb The procedures for “Replacing relays” are provided in Section 4.

Defective relays can be replaced by ordering the appropriate relay kit.

Connections

The following are available S46/S46T connections:

• Female SMA coaxial connectors for all inputs and outputs on front panel.

• Power receptacle: standard 3-prong AC line connector on rear panel.

• GPIB port (IEEE-488 connector) on rear panel.

klqb Refer to Section 2 for detailed connection information.

Installation

The S46 can either be mounted in a rack using the supplied rack mounting hardware, or
operated on a bench by installing the supplied feet as described below.

Rack mounting

The S46/S46T can be mounted in a standard 19-inch rack. The hardware necessary to
install the unit in a rack is supplied with the S46/S46T.

Rack mount kit

The S46/S46T is supplied with a Model 4288-7 rack mount kit, which mounts the unit in a
standard 19-inch rack. This kit includes rear brackets to provide additional support for the
unit.

Rack mount procedure

Perform the following steps to install the S46/S46T in the rack:

1-8 General Information S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

1.75”

Left Front
Rack Rail

Retaining

Clips with

Nuts

t^okfkd Make sure the S46/S46T is turned off, the line cord is disconnected,

and it is not connected to any external circuitry.

t^okfkd The power supply cord is to be used as the mains disconnecting device.

The plug should be located in close proximity to the user and remain
readily accessible at all times.

1. Select a location in the rack. The unit takes up 3.5 inches of vertical space.

2. Using Figure 1-1 as a guide, install two retaining clips on the left front rail. Slide
each retaining clip over a mounting hole such that the captive nut is positioned on
the inside of the rack cabinet. In a similar manner, install two retaining clips on the
right front rail.

3. If installed, remove the four feet from the bottom of the S46/S46T. Retain these
feet for future use.

4. Position the S46/S46T in the rack, and loosely attach the front panel to the rack
rails using the four supplied dress screws.

5. Tighten the four dress screws.

6. Install and secure the rear brackets as outlined in the instructions supplied with the
rack mount kit.

`^rqflk Installation of the rear brackets is recommended to properly support

Figure 1-1

Rack preparation

Foot mounting

In the event the S46/S46T is to be operated on a bench, the supplied rubber feet should be
attached to the bottom of the unit. Each foot can be attached by removing the adhesive
covering, and then pressing the foot into place in a suitable location near each corner on

the S46/S46T.

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual General Information 1-9

the bottom case cover. These feet should be removed before rack mounting the unit (see
above).

1-10 General Information S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

2

Connections

2-2 Connections S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

Introduction

This section contains information about overall switch system configuration and connec­tions and is organized as follows:

• Handling precautions

• System configuration

• Connections

• Switching considerations

t^okfkd The procedures in this section are intended only for qualified service

personnel. Do not perform these procedures unless you are qualified to
do so. Failure to recognize and observe normal safety precautions
could result in personal injury or death.

Handling precautions

To maintain high-impedance isolation, care should be taken when handling the S46/S46T
to avoid contamination from foreign materials such as body oils. Such contamination can
reduce isolation resistance. To avoid possible contamination:

• Do not touch connector insulators.

• Operate the switch controller in a clean environment. If the unit becomes contami­nated, it should be thoroughly cleaned as explained in Section 4.

System configuration

Layout

The S46 front and rear panels are shown in Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2, while the S46T
front and rear panels are shown in Figure 2-3. Both systems feature:

Connectors:

• Relay input and output connectors (see front panel).

• Power line receptacle (see rear panel).

• GPIB Control: IEEE-488 interface connector (see rear panel).

Indicators (see front panel):

• Relay state LEDs (one for each relay).

• Power LED.

• ERR LED (communication error or failed power on self-test).

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual Connections 2-3

Status LEDs

2-Pole Relay
Connections

Status LEDs

4-Pole, 6-Pole, XFER, or MSPDT

Relay Connections

2-Pole Relay
Connections

SP4T

SP3T

SP5T

SP6T

S46 MICROWAVE SWITCH SYSTEM

PWR 1 3 5 1 3 5 1 3 5 1 3 5 R1 R3 R5 R7

ERR 2 4 6 2 4 6 2 4 6 2 4 6 R2 R4 R6 R8

RA RB RC RD

RELAY 1 RELAY 2 RELAY 3 RELAY 4

NO C NC NO C NC NO C NC NO C NC

RELAY 5 RELAY 6 RELAY 7 RELAY 8

NO C NC NO C NC NO C NC NO C NC

RELAY A RELAY B RELAY C RELAY D

4-Pole or 6-Pole Relay Connections

System 46T

System 46

NO C NC

NO C NC

NO C NC

NO C NC

NO C NC

NO C NC

NO C NC

NO C NC

NO C NCNO C NCNO C NCNO C NC NO C NC NO C NC NO C NC NO C NC

1 42 816

Primary Address

DIP Switch

IEEE-488
Connector

!

!

42V MAX.

ANY CONDUCTOR

CAUTION:

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE HAZARD, REPLACE FUSE WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING.

Line Fuse

Figure 2-1

S46/S46T front panels

Figure 2-2

Rear panel—all models

LINE FUSE

SLOWBLOW

1.6A, 250V

LINE RATING

100-240VAC

50, 60Hz

Power Line
Receptacle

120VA MAX

2-4 Connections S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

Simplified schematic

Figure 2-3 shows a simplified schematic diagram of the S46/S46T. Configuration is as fol-

lows:

• RELAY 1 through RELAY 8 are 2-pole relays, each with two inputs (normally
closed and normally open) and one common.

• RELAY A through RELAY D can be 4-pole, 6-pole, or MSPDT relays, each with a
maximum of six inputs and one common. The number of inputs depends on relay
configuration, as shown by the dotted lines in the diagram. The S46T can also
accommodate up to four transfer switches (DPDT). Make sure to note the opera
tional differences associated with the different relays (see Section 3).

-

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual Connections 2-5

RELAY A to RELAY D
4-pole or 6-pole

RELAY 1 to RELAY 8
2-pole

Normally

Closed

Normally

Open

Common

Connection

RELAY A to RELAY D
MSPDT switch

RELAY A to RELAY D
XFER switch

Normally

Closed

Normally

Open

Common

Connection

Normally

Closed

Normally

Open

Common

Connection

Top

Relay

Bottom

Relay

Input

Connections

2

3

4

5

6

1

Common

Connection

Input

Connections

2

1

()

(+)

Power
Terminals

Actuator

3

4

De-energized
Position

Energized
De-energized

RF Switching 13, 24

12, 34

Figure 2-3

Simplified schematic

2-6 Connections S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

Connections

Signal connections

RF input and output connections are made either to the RELAY 1 through RELAY 8 con­nectors, or to the RELAY A through RELAY D connectors as outlined below.

Unterminated SP4T, SP6T and XFER 26.5GHz, and unterminated 40GHz relays have
female SMA 2.9 connectors. All others have female SMA connectors.

Cables

Only use 50Ω cables specified for operation at the system frequency (18GHz, 26.5GHz or
40GHz).

Relay configuration

The S46/S46T can be populated with relays as follows:

• RELAY A, B, C, and D can be populated with either 4-pole, or 6-pole relays. The
S46T can also accommodate up to four transfer switches (DPDT), MSPDT, and
un-terminated SP4T and SP6T relays. Make sure to note the operational differ
ences (see Section 3).

• RELAY 1 through RELAY 8 are populated with 2-pole RF relays.

• Any or all relay locations can be populated.

-

Channel assignments

Table 2-1 summarizes relay channel assignments. See Section 3 for information on con-

trolling channels.

klqb Regardless of the pole configuration of RELAY A, RELAY B starts numbering at

channel 7

Table 2-1

Relay channel assignments

Relay Channels

RELAY A 1 through 6
RELAY B 7 through 12
RELAY C 13 through 18
RELAY D 19 through 24
RELAY 1 to 8 25 through 32

.

S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual Connections 2-7

RELAY 1 to 8 Connections RELAY A to D Connections

C = Common

1 to 4 = Inputs

C

2

6

5

3

4-pole

Terminated

1 to 4 = Inputs

1

3

2

4

XFER

Un-terminated

C = Common

1 to 6 = Inputs

6-pole

C

1

4

2

3

6

5

C = Common

1 to 4 = Inputs

C

1

4

3

2

4-pole

MSPDT

C = Common

1 to 6 = Inputs

6-pole

C

1

4

2

3

6

5

Terminated

Un-terminated

NCNO C

NCNO C

NCNO C

NC = Normally Closed

NO = Normally Open

C = Common

Input/output connections

Figure 2-4 shows input and output connections for both RELAY A through RELAY D,

and RELAY 1 through RELAY 8. RELAY A through RELAY B have up to six inputs and
one output (depending on relay pole configuration). RELAY 1 through RELAY 8 each
have two inputs and one output.

Figure 2-4

Relay input/output connections

Transfer switch (XFER)

Up to four transfer switches (DPDT) can be located in Relay positions A–D. The transfer
switch cross-connects two input ports with two output ports. When using transfer
switches, make sure to note the operational differences (see Section 3).

2-8 Connections S46/S46T Microwave Switch System Instruction Manual

1

12

13

24

GPIB control connection

The rear panel IEEE-488 (GPIB) control port is connected to the GPIB port of a computer
(controller) using a shielded IEEE-488 interface cable with metric mating screws. Figure

2-5 shows the connector, while Table 2-2 summarizes terminals.

Figure 2-5

GPIB control connector

Remember the following restrictions when attaching instruments to the GPIB:

– A maximum separation of 4 meters between any two instruments on the bus.
– A maximum total cable length of 20 meters.
– No more than 15 devices on the bus.
– No two instruments having the same address.

If you cannot meet these requirements, the use of bus extenders is recommended.

`^rqflk IEEE-488 common is connected to digital common. Maximum voltage

between digital common and earth ground is 0V.

Connectors may be stacked to allow a number of parallel connections to one instrument.
Two screws located on a standard connector maintain secure connections between
connectors.

klqb To minimize interference caused by electromagnetic radiation, use shielded

IEEE-488 cables such as the Keithley Model 7007.

Connect devices to the GPIB as follows: