Agilent N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide Agilent Technologies
Notices © Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2009–2013 Warranty No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means (including electronic storage and retrieval or translation into a foreign language) without prior agreement and written consent from Agilent Technologies, Inc. as governed by United States and international copyright laws. The material contained in this document is provided “as is,” and is subject to being changed, without notice, in future editions.
Certification Agilent Technologies certifies that this product met its published specifications at the time of shipment. Agilent further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United States National Institute of Standard and Technology (formerly National Bureau of Standards), to the extent allowed by that organization’s calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of other International Standards Organization members.
Limitation of Warranty The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by the Buyer, Buyer-supplied products or interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation outside of the environmental specifications for the product, or improper site preparation or maintenance. The design and implementation of any circuit on this product is the sole responsibility of the Buyer.
Restricted Rights Legend The Software and Documentation have been developed entirely at private expense. They are delivered and licensed as “commercial computer software” as defined in DFARS 252.227-7013 (Oct 1988), DFARS 252.211-7015 (May 1991), or DFARS 252.227-7014 (Jun 1995), as a “commercial item” as defined in FAR 2.101(a), or as “restricted computer software” as defined in FAR 52.227-19 (Jun 1987) (or any equivalent agency regulation or contract clause), whichever is applicable.
Safety Summary The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation of this instrument. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. Agilent Technologies, Inc. assumes no liability for the customer’s failure to comply with these requirements. Safety Notices vi WA R N I N G A WARNING notice denotes a hazard.
Safety Symbols The following symbol on the instrument and in the documentation indicates precautions that must be taken to maintain safe operation of the instrument. Caution, risk of danger. The Instruction Documentation Symbol. The instrument is marked with this symbol when it is necessary for the user to refer to the instructions in the supplied documentation. This symbol indicates the operating switch for ‘Stand-by’ mode. Note, this instrument is NOT isolated from the mains when the switch is pressed.
General Safety Information This is a Safety Class I instrument (provided with a protective earthing ground, incorporated in the power cord). The mains plug shall only be inserted in a socket outlet provided with a protective earth contact. Any interruption of the protective conductor inside or outside of the instrument is likely to damage the meter. Intentional interruption is prohibited.
Declaration of Conformity (DoC) The Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for this instrument is available on the Agilent Web site. You can search the DoC by its product model or description at the Web address below. http://regulations.corporate.agilent.com/DoC/search.htm NOTE If you are unable to search for the respective DoC, please contact your local Agilent representative.
In This Guide... 1 Introduction This chapter introduces you to the front panel display and instrument Web browser of the N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters. 2 General Power Meter Functions This chapter describes in detail the general operation of the N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters.
9 Maintenance This chapter describes the built-in tests, error messages, and general maintenance. 10 Specifications and Characteristics This chapter describes the specifications and characteristics of your N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters.
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Contents Notices ii Certification iii General Warranty iii Warranty Service iii Limitation of Warranty iv Exclusive Remedies iv Restricted Rights Legend v Technology Licenses v Safety Summary vi Safety Symbols vii General Safety Information viii In This Guide...
Step Detection 51 Measuring Pulsed Signals 52 Setting External Trigger for Average Power Measurement 54 Setting Measurement Limits 62 Single Function Measurement 67 Combined Measurement 68 Max Hold/Min Hold 69 Recorder Output 72 Saving and Recalling Power Meter States 75 Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Meter 77 Blank Screen 84 Secure Blank 85 Backlight Intensity Control 90 Memory Erase/Secure Erase 91 VGA Output (Optional) 94 Warm Start 95 Battery Information (Optional) 96 Setting the Cable Short/Long 102
Power Meter Configuration 127 Measurement Accuracy 131 Frequency Specific Calibration Factors 132 Sensor Calibration Tables 136 6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors Introduction 148 Power Meter Configuration Changes 149 Default Channel Setup 150 N8480 Series Sensors Connection Requirements 151 N8480 Series Power Sensors (excluding Option CFT) 152 N8480 Series Power Sensors with Option CFT 154 7 Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors Introduction 168 Power Meter Configuration 169 Measurement Accuracy 172 Elect
Contacting Agilent Technologies 208 Erasing Memory Data 211 Returning Your Power Meter for Service 212 Agilent Sales and Service Offices 214 10 Specifications and Characteristics Introduction 216 Power Meter Specifications 218 Power Sensor Specifications 219 Power Meter Supplemental Characteristics 223 Measurement Characteristics 232 Rear Panel Inputs and Output Connections 233 1 mW Power Reference 234 Environmental Conditions 235 Physical Characteristics 236 Regulatory Information 237 xvi
List of Figures Figure 1-1 Dual numeric display 10 Figure 1-2 Single numeric and analog display 11 Figure 1-3 Full screen numeric display 12 Figure 1-4 Accessing the instrument Web interface 17 Figure 1-5 N1914A EPM Series power meter Web interface (Welcome Page) 18 Figure 1-6 Message to identify the instrument 19 Figure 1-7 Example of Lan Status message 20 Figure 1-8 Viewing LAN configuration settings from the Web interface 22 Figure 1-9 Password security dialog box 23 Figure 1-10 Changing the instrument L
Figure 2-25 Minimum limit pop-up 64 Figure 2-26 Limit failures 65 Figure 2-27 Measurement Setup showing single configuration 66 Figure 2-28 Function pop-up 67 Figure 2-29 Measurement Setup showing combined configuration 68 Figure 2-30 Measurement example display 68 Figure 2-31 Max hold/min hold measurement is performed on the ‘HOLD’ block 69 Figure 2-32 Hold pop-up 70 Figure 2-33 Min Hold and Max Hold measurement mode indicated in the display 70 Figure 2-34 Measurement mode in full word 71 Figure 2-35 Recor
Figure 2-61 “Running under battery power” pop-up 96 Figure 2-62 Battery indicator 97 Figure 2-63 Battery menu 97 Figure 2-64 Battery status display 98 Figure 2-65 Low battery indicator 98 Figure 2-66 Display backlight control 99 Figure 2-67 Short/long cable option 102 Figure 3-1 E9300 E-Series auto-averaging settings 105 Figure 3-2 E9300 E-Series sensor default channel setup 106 Figure 3-4 Frequency pop-up 109 Figure 3-5 Spread spectrum signal 110 Figure 3-6 Wideband CDMA error of E-Series E9300 power senso
Figure 6-7 Calibration factor displayed 157 Figure 6-8 Sensor table selected 160 Figure 6-9 Frequency dependent offset indicator 161 Figure 6-10 Frequency/calibration table display 162 Figure 6-11 “Sensor Tbls” screen 164 Figure 6-12 “Edit Cal” display 165 Figure 6-13 Edit table title pop-up 165 Figure 7-1 U2000 Series auto-averaging settings 170 Figure 7-2 U2000 Series USB power sensor default channel setup 171 Figure 7-3 Frequency pop-up 173 Figure 9-1 Self test complete 193 Figure 9-2 Error indicator pos
List of Tables Table 1-1 Type of Lan Status message 19 Table 2-1 Measurement units - Single channel meters 32 Table 2-2 Measurement units - Dual channel meters 32 Table 2-3 Range of values for window limits 63 Table 2-4 Ranges of recorder output setting 74 Table 2-5 Power Sensor Connection Requirements 82 Table 3-3 Power sensor connection requirements 107 Table 5-1 8480 Series connection requirements 129 Table 5-2 Installed power sensor models 139 Table 6-1 Power range in the Range setting 148 Table 6-2 N84
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Agilent N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 1 Introduction LXI Class-C Compliant Power Meter 2 Power Meter and Sensor Capability 3 Conventions Used in this Guide 4 Front Panel Keys and Connections 5 The Display Layout 10 Window Symbols and Pop-ups 13 Rear Panel Connections 16 Using the Instrument Web Interface 17 Making Socket Connection 27 Programming Language Selection (Option 200) 29 This chapter introduces you to the front panel display and instrument Web browser of the N1913/1914A EPM Se
1 Introduction LXI Class-C Compliant Power Meter The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meter is a LXI Class C compliant instrument, developed using LXI Technology. LXI, an acronym for LAN eXtension for Instrumentation, is an instrument standard for devices that use the Ethernet (LAN) as their primary communication interface. Hence, it is an easy- to- use instrument especially with the usage of an integrated Web browser that provides a convenient way to configure the instrument’s functionality.
Introduction 1 Power Meter and Sensor Capability Your N1913/1914A EPM Series power meter is compatible with the Agilent E9300 E- Series, E4410 E- Series, 8480 Series, N8480 Series, and the U2000 Series power sensors, and the U8480 Series thermocouple sensor. However, not all sensor and meter combinations have the same features or capabilities.
1 Introduction Conventions Used in this Guide The following conventions are used throughout this guide. This symbol and text represents a labeled key on the power meter front panel. Softkey Message Parameter “Channel” This symbol and text represents a labeled softkey and is used to indicate that you should press the unmarked key beside the displayed text. This text represents a displayed message. This is used to represent a parameter, value, or title.
Introduction 1 Front Panel Keys and Connections This section briefly describes the functions of the front panel keys and connectors. These keys are located to the left of the display. Key Function Press this key to preset the power-meter to the default setting. Press this key to control the power meter from the front panel when it is operating via the remote interfaces (when Local Lock Out is not enabled). Press this key to select the upper or lower measurement window.
1 Introduction These keys are located along the lower edge of the display. Key Function Press this key to access general configuration-menus, such as GPIB address. You can also access some measurement configuration menus. The measurement screen remains visible. Press this key to access the channel configuration menus. Channel parameters such as averaging and offsets are configured from this menu. Press this key to access the triggering menu.
Introduction 1 These keys are all associated with the menu labels and data entry. They are located to the right of the display. Key Function Press this key to return to the previous screen. This key also cancels pop-up entry. These unmarked keys are called ‘softkeys’ and are referred to by the text on the display next to them. For example, during a Preset, you are given an option to confirm the command. Press Confirm to continue, that is, press the softkey beside the displayed word ‘confirm’.
1 Introduction These keys and connectors are associated with the measurement channels and are located on the right- hand side of the front panel. Key Function The arrow keys are used for navigation around the parameter entry screens. The up and down arrows are used for selecting values from a pop-up list. They are also used to enter text, for example, table names. Press this key to select a highlighted field to allow data entry, check a checkbox and terminate entry of a popup list.
Introduction Connector 1 Function The power reference is a 1 mW (0 dBm) 50 MHz signal available from a 50 W type-N connector. It is used for calibrating an 8480 or E-Series power sensor and meter system. If the meter is configured with Option 109, the connector is fitted to the rear panel. The Green LED beside the connector is lit when the calibrator is turned on. The sensor input connectors (N1914A shown, the N1913A has one input).
1 Introduction The Display Layout Figure 1- 1 shows the display layout when two windows are configured in dual numeric mode. Other display formats are available by pressing 1 , Disp Type . 3 4 5 2 6 7 Figure 1-1 Dual numeric display 1 The status reporting line displays messages and the control status of the power meter. For example, the status can be either RMT (remote, GPIB, USB or LAN operation) or LCL (local, front panel operation).
Introduction 1 Softkeys labels that are grayed out cannot be selected. 6 This displays the measurement units, either dBm or Watts (W). 7 This displays the number of pages in the current menu. For example, 1 of 2 indicates that there are two pages in the menu and the first page is currently displayed. Pressing the softkey displays the next page, indicated by 2 of 2 (press the softkey to display the previous menu page).
1 Introduction 15 16 17 14 18 13 Figure 1-3 Full screen numeric display Figure 1- 3 shows a single numeric full screen displaying a relative result. 13 This field displays Minimum Hold if range hold is set to minimum. 14 The information in this field is displayed on two lines and depends on the sensor type, sensor calibration table, frequency dependent offset table currently selected, and the measurement frequency. 15 This field displays Dty Cyc if a duty cycle is set.
Introduction 1 Window Symbols and Pop-ups There are several different graphic symbols and pop- up windows that can occur on the power meter display.
1 Introduction Wait Symbol Pop-up The wait symbol is displayed when the power meter is carrying out a procedure and no action is required from you. The symbol appears in a pop- up window. It may appear, for example, during a calibration. Confirm Symbol Pop-up This type of pop- up window is displayed when you are required to press Confirm to verify your previous selection. For example, prior to a Save being carried out.
Introduction 1 Text Entry Pop-up This type of pop- up window is displayed when you need to modify alphanumeric data such as table names. The up/down arrow keys increment and decrement the alphanumeric digit that the cursor is currently positioned. The left/right arrow keys move the cursor to another alphanumeric digit. List Pop-up This pop- up window is displayed when you are required to select an entry from a list. Use the up/down arrow keys to highlight your choice. Press select to complete the entry.
1 Introduction Rear Panel Connections 6 No. 3 2 1 7 8 5 4 9 Connections 1 VGA Output (Option 010) 2 Ground Connector 3 USB Type A port (Option 008, Option 009) This USB port is solely for U2000 Series power sensors usage only. 4 Recorder 1/2 Recorder output (two outputs are fitted to dual channel meters) connections are made via BNC connectors. This output produces a DC voltage that corresponds to the power level of the channel input.
Introduction 1 Using the Instrument Web Interface You can communicate with the N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters using the Web interface. The instrument Web interface can be accessed from Agilent Connection Expert as shown in Figure 1- 4. NOTE Alternatively, the instrument Web interface can also be accessed directly from a Web broswer by entering the instrument’s IP address or hostname in the browser’s ‘address’ window.
1 Introduction An example of the instrument Web interface (Welcome Page) is shown in Figure 1- 5. Figure 1-5 N1914A EPM Series power meter Web interface (Welcome Page) You can control the instrument via GPIB, LAN, and USB connection. The connection parameters can be found on the Welcome Page. For example, SCPI TCPIP socket port (5025), SCPI Telnet port (5024), VISA TCPIP Connect String, VISA USB Connect String, and GPIB address are shown.
Introduction 1 When the front panel identification indicator is turned on, a blinking “IDENTIFY” message is displayed on the screen of the front panel. See Figure 1- 6. The “IDENTIFY” message will blink to identify the instrument until you click Turn Off Front Panel Identification Indicator. “IDENTIFY” message to blink when the front panel identification indicator is turned on.
1 Introduction Lan: DHCP Not Available Status: Running • Unable to obtain IP address from DHCP server (if user select DHCP configuration) • IP address obtained from Auto-IP or manual configuration. Figure 1-7 Example of Lan Status message NOTE 20 For more details on remote interface configuration, refer to N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters Installation Guide.
Introduction 1 Using the Remote Front Panel The instrument Web interface also provides a virtual front panel interface that can be used to control the power meter remotely. 1 On the left of the Welcome Page, select Browser Web Control. The remote front panel appears. 2 Click the front panel keys to control the instrument. NOTE Java™ must be installed on the controlling PC for remote front panel operation.
1 Introduction Editing the Instrument’s LAN Settings Once communication path to the instrument has been established, the instrument’s LAN configuration can be viewed and modified using the Web interface. On the Welcome Page, click View and Modify Configuration. This opens the configuration window shown in Figure 1- 8. Figure 1-8 Viewing LAN configuration settings from the Web interface To edit parameters shown, click Modify Configuration. The Enter Password dialog box appears as shown in Figure 1- 9.
Introduction 1 Figure 1-9 Password security dialog box Click the Submit (accept the default password) and the window opens as shown in Figure 1- 10. The default password is “agilent”. NOTE A LAN reset needs to be performed to ensure that the password is reset to default. See LAN reset procedure as below. Procedure: 1 Press , Remote Interfaces to display the Remote Interfaces screen. 2 Press 1 of 2 softkey to display the second page of the Remote I/F menu.
1 Introduction Figure 1-10 Changing the instrument LAN interface configuration 24 Agilent N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide
Introduction 1 Capturing the Screen Image To save the instrument’s display from the Web interface: 1 On the left of the Welcome Page, select Get Image. The screen image will be displayed. 2 Right- click on the image and select Save Picture As…. 3 Select a storage location for the image file and click Save. The image is captured as a Bitmap (BMP) file, to the default file name display.bmp.
1 Introduction Getting the Instrument Data The instrument Web interface allows you to transport measurement readings from the instrument to PC applications such as word and spreadsheet applications. To get the instrument data: 1 On the left of the Welcome Page, select Get Data. The Get Data Web page will be displayed. 2 Select the window/measurement type of the instrument. 3 Enter your desired count value (up to 1000 only) of the data and click Get Data. The data will be displayed in a text box.
Introduction 1 Making Socket Connection The power meter can be remotely connected via socket connection. To connect the meter using socket connection, 1 Right- click the Agilent IO Libraries Agilent Connection Expert. icon on the taskbar and select 2 On the Agilent Connection Expert window, click on . An Add Instrument window will be prompted out. Select Add LAN instrument on LAN (TCPIPO) interface and click OK (see Figure 1- 11).
1 Introduction Figure 1-12 Add LAN Instruments window Figure 1-13 N1914A meter connected via socket connection 28 Agilent N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide
Introduction 1 Programming Language Selection (Option 200) The programming language selection is available as an orderable option. For N1913A, you can use SCPI, HP 436A, or HP 437B programming language to program the power meter from the remote interface. For N1914A, you can use either SCPI or HP 438A programming language to program the power meter from the remote interface. The default language is SCPI when the power meter is shipped from the factory.
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N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 2 General Power Meter Functions Setting the Units of Measurement 32 Setting the Measurement Frequency 33 Setting the Resolution 34 Making Relative Measurements 35 Setting Offsets 37 Setting Measurement Averaging 49 Step Detection 51 Measuring Pulsed Signals 52 Setting External Trigger for Average Power Measurement 54 Setting Measurement Limits 62 Single Function Measurement 67 Combined Measurement 68 Max Hold/Min Hold 69 Recorder Output 72 Saving and Recalli
2 General Power Meter Functions Setting the Units of Measurement The Units menu is used to select the measurement units for the currently selected window. These can either be logarithmic (dBm or dB) or linear (Watt or %) units. Presetting ( ) the power meter sets the measurement units to dBm (logarithmic units). Table 2- 1 and Table 2- 2 show units that are applicable to each measurement mode. Press , Units . Select the unit of measurement from dBm , W , dB , and % .
General Power Meter Functions 2 Setting the Measurement Frequency Entering the frequency of the RF signal you are measuring optimizes the accuracy and minimizes measurement uncertainty, especially when making comparative measurements between signals. Procedure Set the measurement frequency as follows: 1 Press . On dual channel meters select the required channel. 2 Use the press and keys to highlight the Frequency value field and to display the Frequency pop- up.
2 General Power Meter Functions Setting the Resolution The resolution of each of the power meter’s numeric type windows can be set to four different levels (1, 2, 3 or 4). These four levels represent: • 1, 0.1, 0.01, 0.001 dB respectively if the measurement suffix is dBm or dB. • 1, 2, 3 or 4 significant digits respectively if the measurement suffix is W or %. The default value is 0.01 dB (3 digits). To set the resolution on the currently selected window: 1 Press the Resolution .
General Power Meter Functions 2 Making Relative Measurements Relative mode enables comparison of a measurement result to a reference value. The relative reading, or difference, can be displayed in either dB or % terms. When the measurement result is displayed in % a prefix multiplier may be shown. Procedure 1 Press to display the Measurement Setup menu. Figure 2- 2 shows a Measurement Setup display and the relative measurement items labeled.
2 General Power Meter Functions 7 Press and the original result value will appear on the right hand side of the Rel check field. 8 The relative value displayed under Result field will change as the measured signal varies. NOTE If you return the power meter to display the numeric display, a Rel symbol will be displayed in the measurement window it is applied to.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Setting Offsets The power meter can be configured to compensate for a signal loss or gain in your test setup. The power meter allows you to apply offsets at three different points in the measurement path.
2 General Power Meter Functions Figure 2- 4 shows that how you can apply a Channel Offset or a Frequency Dependent Offset prior to any mathematical functions. These allow you to compensate each channel individually. An overall offset can be applied if required using the Display Offset. Setting Channel Offsets This gain or loss is applied to the measured power before any mathematical functions, display offsets or relative functions are included.
General Power Meter Functions 2 6 Confirm your choice by pressing dB . 7 Press key to complete the offset entry. If either a channel or a display offset is set, the Ofs indicator is displayed. Offset indicator Figure 2-6 Channel offset indicator NOTE The Ofs symbol is not displayed when the associated measurement is displayed in Dual Numeric or Analog format.
2 General Power Meter Functions Selected window/ measurement Offset setting field Offset value field Figure 2-7 Typical display offset display 5 Press to highlight the Offset value field and press to display the Display Offset pop- up. Use the numeric keypad to enter the required value in the Offset pop- up window. 6 Confirm your choice by pressing dB . Press offset entry. NOTE 40 key to complete the The Ofs indicator is displayed if Display Offset is selected.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Setting Frequency Dependent Offsets Frequency dependent offset tables provide a quick and convenient method of compensating for frequency related changes in the response of your test system. Note that when selected, frequency dependent offset corrections are applied IN ADDITION to any correction for sensor frequency response. The power meter is capable of storing 10 frequency dependent offset tables with a maximum of 80 frequency points each.
2 General Power Meter Functions The State column indicates if any frequency dependent offset tables are currently selected. The Offset Tables screen is shown in Figure 2- 8. NOTE You can also view which FDO table is being used by pressing the and use the and , Offsets keys to highlight the FDO Table setting field and press to display the table. Procedure Select an offset table as follows: 1 Press, either: a. b. , Tables , Freq. Dep. Offset .
General Power Meter Functions 2 Use the and 2 keys to highlight one of the 10 table titles and press Table ( A Table or B Table for dual channel) to highlight On . NOTE When no data is contained in the highlighted table, the Table key is disabled (grayed out). 3 Press to complete the selection of the offset table. 4 Press again to display the measurement screen. Figure 2- 9 shows which offset table is selected.
2 General Power Meter Functions Editing Frequency Dependent Offset Tables There are ten frequency dependent offset tables named CUSTOM_A through CUSTOM_J. They are empty of any data when the power meter is shipped from the factory. You cannot delete any of the 10 existing frequency dependent offset tables or create any additional tables. However, you can enter values into the 10 existing tables. Each frequency dependent offset table can contain a maximum of 80 frequency points.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Figure 2-10 “Edit Offset” display with data added 3 Highlight the table title using the use and keys. Press Change and the , , and keys to select and change the characters in the Table Name pop- up to create the name you want to use. Figure 2-11 Edit table title pop-up • Pressing Insert Char adds a new character to the right of the selected character. • Pressing Delete Char removes the selected character. 4 Press Enter to complete the entry.
2 General Power Meter Functions NOTE The following rules apply to naming sensor calibration tables: • The name must consist of no more than 12 characters. • All characters must be upper or lower case alphabetic characters, or numeric (0-9), or an underscore (_). • No other characters are allowed. • No spaces are allowed in the name. Enter (or edit) the frequency and offset pairs as follows: 1 Press Insert to add a new frequency value (or press Change to edit).
General Power Meter Functions NOTE 2 If you measure a signal with a frequency outside the frequency range defined in the frequency dependent offset table, the power meter uses the highest or lowest frequency point in the frequency dependent offset table to calculate the offset Selectable Frequency Dependent Offset Unit (dB or %) The offset in dB range is from –100 dB to +100 dB. The equivalent range in % is from 0.0000000001% to 10000000000%.
2 General Power Meter Functions If the selected offset unit is %, the display of the offset will be in engineering unit only if the percentage value is less than 0.01% or more than 999%. The format of the display in engineering unit for an offset greater than 999% will be shown as follows, xxx. yyyyyyyyy e+z • There is a maximum of three numbers before the decimal point indicated by x. • y is optional if there are non- zero numbers after the decimal point.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Setting Measurement Averaging The power meter uses a digital filter to average power readings. The number of readings averaged can range from 1 to 1024. This filter is used to reduce noise, obtain the desired resolution and to reduce the jitter in the measurement results. Increasing the value of the measurement average reduces measurement noise. However, the measurement time is increased.
2 General Power Meter Functions Resolution is a measurement display function and not a channel function. In the case where a channel is set up in both the upper and lower window and the resolution settings are different, the highest resolution setting is taken to calculate the averaging number. These four resolution levels represent: • 1, 0.1, 0.01, 0.001 dB respectively if the measurement suffix is dBm or dB. • 1, 2, 3 or 4 significant digits respectively if the measurement suffix is Ω or %.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Step Detection To reduce the filter settling time after a significant step in the measured power the filter can be set to re- initialize upon detection of a step increase or decrease in the measured power. Step detection can be set in both manual and automatic measurement average modes. Procedure Set step detection as follows: 1 Press . On dual channel meters select the required channel. 2 Use the and 3 Press 4 Press keys to select the Step Detect setting field.
2 General Power Meter Functions Measuring Pulsed Signals The power meter can be used to measure the power of a pulsed signal. The measurement result is a mathematical representation of the pulse power rather than an actual measurement (assumes constant peak power). The power meter measures the average power of the pulsed input signal and then divides the measurement result by the duty cycle value to obtain the pulse power reading. The allowable range of values is 0.001% to 100%. The default value is 1.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Procedure Set duty cycle as follows: 1 Press to display the Channel Setup screen. Confirm the channel requiring setup is displayed. 2 Press Offsets to display the Offsets Setup. 3 Use the 4 Press and keys to highlight the Duty Cycle setting field. to check the Duty Cycle setting field. Duty cycle setting field Duty cycle value field Figure 2-17 Duty cycle setting 5 Press to highlight the Duty Cycle value field and press to display the Duty Cycle pop- up.
2 General Power Meter Functions Setting External Trigger for Average Power Measurement There are two modes featured in triggered average power measurement • Power sweep mode • Frequency sweep mode These modes are used to eliminate the need for lengthy test routines, while increasing measurement throughput by reducing overhead of communication with the controller. The sweep feature allows you to make power measurement by quickly stepping through a series of frequencies or power levels.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Power Sweep Mode Power sweep is generally used in power level calibration setup where the frequency is fixed (CW frequency), and the amplitude of the power source signal is swept. This mode can be used to characterize the flatness, linearity or gain compression of a device under test. NOTE This feature is only available when 8480 Series, N8480 Series, E-Series E4410, or E-Series E9300 sensor is connected. Procedures 1 Connect sensor to a power source.
2 General Power Meter Functions Figure 2-20 Channel Setup display NOTE When 8480 Series, N8480 Series, E-Series E4410, E-Series E9300 or U2000 Series sensor is connected, Sensor Mode is set to AVG only by default. 4 Press . The Trigger menu is displayed. 5 Press Acqn softkey to configure the trigger. 6 Select either Sing Trig or Cont Trig . • Sing Trig is a single shot mode. After triggering, the measurement is halted, and the symbol is displayed.
General Power Meter Functions 2 External trigger source Figure 2-21 Trigger setting menu 1 of 2 Figure 2-22 Trigger setting menu 2 of 2 8 Press Source and Ext will be automatically enabled. 9 Press 1 of 2 , Output and On to allow a TTL level high to be produced at the rear panel TRIG OUT BNC port when the meter is triggered upon a completed measurement. 10 Press Slope and select + or – to set the trigger edge.
2 General Power Meter Functions NOTE Refer to the N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters Programming Guide for the commands usage details. Example of command set: BUFF:COUN 100 NOTE The power meter can be remotely controlled by LAN, USB and GPIB (IEEE488) programming interfaces. Refer to N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters Installation Guide for details. 12 Press or to setup measurement setting such as measurement averaging, measurement frequency, offsets, duty cycle and so forth.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Frequency Sweep Mode Frequency sweep is generally used in a frequency response calibration system where the amplitude is fixed, and the frequency of the power source signal is swept. This mode can be used to determine the frequency response of a device under test. NOTE This feature is only available when N8480 Series, E-Series E4410, or E-Series E9300 sensor is connected. Procedures 1 Connect sensor to a power source.
2 General Power Meter Functions 10 Press or to setup measurement settings such as measurement averaging, measurement frequency, offsets, duty cycle and so forth. Refer to “General Power Meter Functions” on page 31 for the setup procedures. 11 Set the frequency range and step by sending the below commands to meter using remote interface.
General Power Meter Functions 2 17 Poll the status of the power meter by sending *ESR?. *ESR? will return a 1 when buffering is completed. Use FETCh? to retrieve all the buffered measurement. NOTE In both power sweep and frequency sweep mode, the meter TRIG OUT to power source TRIG IN connection is optional. You may choose to setup the Dwell time in the power source step setting to cater the maximum settling time required by the power meter.
2 General Power Meter Functions Setting Measurement Limits You can configure the power meter to detect when a measurement has crossed over a predefined upper and/or lower limit value. Limits are boundaries set for a certain power range and it can be applied to power, ratio or difference measurement. Power Meter Swept Source Device Under Test OUT OUT Figure 2-23 Limits checking applications In this application a swept frequency signal is applied to the input of the Device Under Test.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Setting Limits The power meter can be configured to verify the current measurement in any measurement line against predefined upper and/or lower limit values. The range of values that can be set for the upper and lower limits and the default values depends on the measurement units in the currently selected measurement line (see Table 2- 3).
2 General Power Meter Functions Figure 2-25 Minimum limit pop-up 6 Use the numeric keys to enter the required value and press dBm . 7 Use the key to highlight the Maximum Limits: value field. 8 Press to display the Maximum Limit pop- up. 9 Use the numeric keys to enter the required value and press dBm . 10 Press NOTE 64 key to close the Measurement Setup screen. The Limits can be disabled and re-enabled by checking the Limits: setting field.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Checking for Limit Failures Limit failures are displayed in the appropriate field in the measurement window on the power meter’s display as shown in Figure 2- 26. This measurement has failed as the result is greater than the set limit level. This measurement has failed as the result is less than the set limit level.
2 General Power Meter Functions Numeric Format Configure a measurement displayed in Single Numeric or Dual Numeric format as follows: • Press , Meas Select to select the measurement window or measurement line you want to configure.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Single Function Measurement Figure 2- 27 shows an average measurement assigned in the upper measurement line of the upper window. (For single channel power meter, N1913A, the Channel field will be disabled, as shown in Figure 2- 27). NOTE The gate field is disabled if trigger acquisition is Free Run. 1 Use the , , , , to highlight the Combination function field. 2 Press to display the Function pop- up, and use the to highlight Single.
2 General Power Meter Functions Combined Measurement Figure 2- 29 shows a Combined Measurement configuration; Channel A and Channel C to be displayed in the upper measurement line of the upper display window. (For single channel power meter, N1913A, the Channel field will be disabled, as shown in Figure 2- 29).
General Power Meter Functions 2 Max Hold/Min Hold The max hold/min hold setting on the measurement setup window can be set on the front panel or via SCPI. Min hold is the minimum of all measurements since the start time. The min hold reading will be updated as new minimum reading appears. Max hold is the maximum of all measurements since the start time. The max reading will be updated as new maximum reading appears. The max hold/min hold reading can be resettable by pressing the key.
2 General Power Meter Functions To set max hold/min hold, 1 Press 2 Use the to display the Measurement Setup menu. , , , , to highlight the Hold function field. 3 Press to display the Hold pop- up, and use the highlight Min or Max (see Figure 2- 32). and to Figure 2-32 Hold pop-up 4 Press 5 Press results. to complete the entry.
General Power Meter Functions 2 6 Press to display the measurement window in full screen mode. The measurement mode will be indicated in full word in the expanded window (see Figure 2- 34).
2 General Power Meter Functions Recorder Output The rear panel Recorder Output connectors (1 and 2) produce a dc voltage that corresponds to the power level in Watts of the selected measurement window. This dc voltage ranges from 0 to +1 Vdc. The output impedance is typically 1 kΩ. For example, the Recorder Outputs can be used to: • Record swept measurements • Level an output from a source using external leveling, or • Monitor the output power To access the Recorder menu press , and enable Rec o/p.
General Power Meter Functions 3 Press 4 Use the 2 to reveal the Recorder option menu. and keys to highlight the option you require. • The N1913A has only three options, On, Auto, or Off. • The N1914A has five options: 1, 2, Auto 1, Auto 2, or Off. 5 Press . 6 Use the key to highlight the Recorder Minimum: value field. 7 Press to display the Recorder Minimum pop- up.
2 General Power Meter Functions Figure 2-36 Recorder Maximum pop-up 11 Use the numeric keys to enter the power level you want to generate a 0 Vdc output in the Recorder Minimum pop- up and press dBm . 12 Press NOTE key to close the Measurement Setup screen. The recorder output can be disabled and re-enabled by checking the Rec o/p: setting field. The highest power you are going to measure is used to determine the value which you should set for the Recorder Output maximum setting.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Saving and Recalling Power Meter States To reduce repeated setup sequences, you can save a maximum of ten power meter states in the non- volatile memory. The save/recall functions are part of the Sys/Inputs menu, accessed by pressing the key. To save a measurement setup: 1 Press , Save/Recall Figure 2- 37. to display the Save/Recall screen as shown in Figure 2-37 Save/Recall screen 2 Using the and keys, select an available name from the displayed list.
2 General Power Meter Functions Editing a Register’s Name 1 If you have not already done so, press 2 Use the and , Save/Recall . keys to select the required register and press Edit Name . The selected name is displayed in a pop- up window. Modify this as required: Figure 2-39 File name pop-up 3 Use and keys to modify the character on which the cursor is currently positioned. 4 Use or to move to other characters. 5 Use Insert Char and Delete Char as required.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Meter This section describes how to zero and calibrate the power meter. You should always zero the power meter prior to calibrating it. Zeroing the Power Meter Zeroing adjusts the power meter for a zero power reading with no power applied to the power sensor. During zeroing, which takes approximately 10 seconds, the wait symbol is displayed.
2 General Power Meter Functions Zero/Cal Lockout The Zero/Cal Lockout facility provides a mean of ensuring that a measurement cannot be taken until the connected sensor has been zeroed and calibrated. If the Zero/Cal Lockout facility is enabled and a sensor is connected which have not been zeroed and calibrated, then the display window for the sensor will display the message Please Zero and Cal. Figure 2-42 Please zero and calibrate window When you zero the sensor, the message changes to Please Cal.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Calibration Calibration sets the gain of the power meter using a 50 MHz 1 mW calibrator as a traceable power reference. The power meter’s POWER REF output or a suitable external reference is used as the signal source for calibration. An essential part of calibrating is setting the correct reference calibration factor for the power sensor you are using. The N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meter User’s Guide require you to set the reference calibration factor.
2 General Power Meter Functions Calibration Procedure Using E-Series Power Sensors and N8480 Series Power Sensors (excluding Option CFT) The following procedure describes how you calibrate the power meter with an E- Series power sensor or N8480 Series power sensor (excluding Option CFT). Since the power meter automatically downloads the ESeries power sensor or N8480 Series power sensor (excluding Option CFT)’s calibration table, there is no requirement to enter the reference calibration factor.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Calibration Procedure Using 8480 Series Power Sensors and N8480 Series Power Sensors (with Option CFT) The following procedure describes how you calibrate the power meter with the 8480 Series power sensors and N8480 Series power sensors with Option CFT. NOTE V8486A and W8486A sensors For most 8480 Series sensors, the correct (A type or D type) linearity correction table is automatically selected.
2 General Power Meter Functions Table 2-5 Power Sensor Connection Requirements Sensor Model Connection Requirements Agilent 8481A These power sensors connect directly to the reference calibrator.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Sensor Model Connection Requirements Agilent 8485D Prior to the power meter being zeroed and calibrated, an Agilent 11708A 30 dB reference attenuator and an APC 3.5 (f) to 50 Ω (m) N-Type adapter (08485-60005) should be connected between the power sensor and the reference calibrator. Remove this attenuator from the power sensor input before making measurements. Agilent 8487A This power sensor requires an APC 2.
2 General Power Meter Functions Blank Screen The blank screen feature enables you to blank the whole display screen. The feature ensures that the meter’s display is not shown to casual observers. To restore the display, press any buttons on the front panel. To access this feature, press , 1 of 2 and select Service . In the Service menu, press 1 of 2 and select Display . Press Blank Screen .
General Power Meter Functions 2 Secure Blank The secure blank feature is the next level of security to the blank screen feature. The data’s confidentiality can be secured with the password protection feature. To restore the display, you are required to enter the correct password. Figure 2-45 Secure Blank feature To access the secure blank feature, 1 Press , 1 of 2 and select Service . 2 In the Service menu, press 1 of 2 and select Display . 3 Press Secure Blank .
2 General Power Meter Functions Figure 2-46 Enter 6-digit Password pop-up 4 The entered password will be displayed (see Figure 2- 47). Press Enter . 5 A warning message pop- up will be displayed if the entered password is not 6- digits (see Figure 2- 48). This warning will appear for two seconds before the Enter 6- digit Password pop- up (Figure 2- 46) is displayed again.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Figure 2-48 Warning message 6 The reconfirm password pop- up will be displayed (see Figure 2- 49). You will be prompted to enter the password again for confirmation. Figure 2-49 Reconfirm password 7 A warning message pop- up will be displayed if the password entered is different from the initial password (see Figure 2- 50). This warning will appear for two seconds before the enter password pop- up is displayed again.
2 General Power Meter Functions Figure 2-50 Warning message 8 When the correct password is successfully entered for the second time, you will be prompted for confirmation before the screen is blanked (see Figure 2- 51). Press Confirm . Figure 2-51 Password reconfirmation pop-up 9 After screen is blanked, pressing of any keys on the front panel will prompt you to enter password to restore the display (see Figure 2- 52). You are allowed up to three attempts of password entry.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Figure 2-52 Enter password to restore display NOTE If you have forgotten the 6-digit password and need to operate the meter immediately, perform the Memory Erase operation. This operation will erase all data stored in the meter. Refer to “Memory Erase/Secure Erase” on page 91 for more details.
2 General Power Meter Functions Backlight Intensity Control The backlight intensity control allows you to increase or decrease the backlight brightness. This feature helps to prolong the usage hours when the meter is running under battery power. To access this feature, press , 1 of 2 and select Service . In the Service menu, press 1 of 2 and select Backlight . Figure 2-53 Backlight intensity control Press Brightness + to increase the backlight’s brightness.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Memory Erase/Secure Erase The memory erase and secure erase features will erase the battery backed SRAM, and flash file system. The flash file system includes the power meter states, cal factor tables, frequency dependant offset tables, and the secure blank password stored in the EEPROM. Upon completion, the meter ‘s contents will be initialized to the default settings. These features can only be activated via the front panel.
2 General Power Meter Functions Secure Erase , 1 of 2 and select Service . In the Service menu, select Secure Erase (see Figure 2- 56). 1 Press Figure 2-56 Secure Erase 2 A confirmation pop- up will be displayed, press Confirm to begin secure erase (see Figure 2- 57).
General Power Meter Functions 2 3 A warning pop- up will be displayed to inform you that the secure erase is in progress (see Figure 2- 58).
2 General Power Meter Functions VGA Output (Optional) The VGA output is used to project the meter’s small display to a bigger monitor or screen. This VGA output feature is available as an orderable option. The VGA output ON/OFF selection is provided via the front panel and SCPI. The default setting is OFF. To access the VGA output selection, 1 Press , 1 of 2 and select Service . 2 In the Service menu, press 1 of 2 and select Display . 3 Press Display to toggle ON/OFF the VGA feature (see Figure 2- 59).
General Power Meter Functions 2 Warm Start The warm start feature allows you to retain the meter’s same states and settings upon power cycle or in the event of interrupted power. The warm start ON/OFF is selectable through the front panel and SCPI. The default setting is ON. Warm start ON All the states entered through the front panel or remote interface will be saved. The power meter will be powered on with the states before it was powered off.
2 General Power Meter Functions Battery Information (Optional) The battery pack is designed for portable usage to areas where AC supply is not easily available. The battery pack is available as an orderable option. Running Under Battery Power A “Running under battery power” pop- up message will be displayed when • the power meter is powered under battery power, or • if the AC power is lost while the power meter is still connected to an AC source (applicable for power meters with battery option).
General Power Meter Functions 2 Battery indicator Figure 2-62 Battery indicator Battery Menu For power meters with battery option, to access the battery menu, 1 Press , 1 of 2 and select Service . 2 In the Service menu, press 1 of 2 and select Battery .
2 General Power Meter Functions Battery Status Display The meter’s system will stop charging the battery once the battery pack internal temperature is higher than 45 °C. The battery’s rated temperature range is from 0 °C to 50 °C for discharging mode. Pop- up messages will be displayed to advise you to power down the meter once the battery temperature is under or above the rated temperature.
General Power Meter Functions 2 Display Backlight Control When the battery power is being used, the display backlight control will be available. If AC power is being used, the display backlight control menu is grayed out and the backlight is permanently turned ON. The display backlight can be turned OFF by pressing Backlight Off on the backlight menu. When backlight is turned OFF, pressing on any of the keys on the front panel will turn ON the backlight.
2 General Power Meter Functions Battery General Information Please use this information to maintain your power meter battery in optimum condition and prolong its operating life. Battery Storage If left unused, a fully charged battery discharges over a period of time. A fully charged battery removed from a power meter and stored for a maximum of two months retains a low- level charge.
General Power Meter Functions WA R N I N G 2 • This battery pack uses Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. • Do not short circuit the battery terminals. • Do not subject the battery to excessive heat. • Do not dispose of by burning. • Lithium-ion (Li-ion) cells are considerably more environmentally friendly than Nickel-Cadmium (NiCD) cells but you should follow battery safety guidelines.
2 General Power Meter Functions Setting the Cable Short/Long When connecting the power sensor with Agilent 11730F power sensor cable, 61 m (200 ft), you are required to change the cable setting from Short (default setting) to Long, or an error will occur when the power sensor is connected. To access the cable setting, 1 Press , 1 of 2 and select Service . 2 In the Service menu, press 1 of 2 and select Cable Short/Long to toggle between the short or long cable option.
N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Introduction 104 Power Meter Configuration 105 Measurement Accuracy 107 Measuring Spread Spectrum and Multitone Signals 110 Measuring TDMA Signals 113 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Measurements 115 Measurement Accuracy and Speed 116 This chapter describes how to use your E9300 E-Series power sensors with N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters.
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Introduction The E9300 E- Series power sensors are true average, wide dynamic range RF microwave power sensors. They are based on a dual sensor diode pair/attenuator/diode pair. This technique ensures the diodes in the selected signal path are kept in their square law region, thus the output current (and voltage) is proportional to the input power.
Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 3 Power Meter Configuration Lower Range E9300/1/4A E9300/1H E9300/1B 10 dBm 20 dBm 40 dBm 2 dBm 12 dBm 32 dBm -4 dBm 6 dBm 26 dBm -10 dBm 0 dBm 20 dBm -20 dBm -10 dBm 10 dBm -30 dBm -20 dBm 0 dBm -40 dBm -30 dBm -10 dBm -50 dBm -40 dBm -20 dBm Maximum Sensor Power 1 Resolution Setting 2 3 4 1 1 1 4 1 1 4 16 1 1 8 32 1 4 16 128 1 16 64 128 1 1 1 4 1 1 2 16 1 2 16 64 4 16 128 256 32 64 256 256 Number
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Default Channel Setup When an E- Series E9300 power sensor is connected the following Channel Setup is automatically configured. Carrying out a Preset returns the power meter to this configuration.
Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 3 Measurement Accuracy Power sensors have small errors in their response over frequency. The response of each sensor is measured during manufacture to determine correction factors. With E- Series power sensors, correction factors are held in Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) and are downloaded to the power meter automatically. Using calibration factors enables improved measurement accuracy.
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Procedure 1 Zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor combination. 2 Ensure the power sensor is disconnected from any signal source. 3 Press displayed. and the channel Zero softkey. The Zeroing pop- up is 4 Connect the power sensor to the POWER REF output. 5 Press and the channel Cal softkey to start the calibration routine. The Calibrating pop- up is then displayed.
Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 3 Figure 3-4 Frequency pop-up 8 Confirm your choice by pressing MHz or GHz . 9 Press key to close the Channel Setup screen. 10 Proceed to make the measurement. 11 Reconnect any required attenuators or adaptors and connect the power sensor to the signal to be measured. The corrected measurement result is displayed.
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Measuring Spread Spectrum and Multitone Signals To achieve high data transfer rates within a given bandwidth, many transmission schemes are based around phase and amplitude (I and Q) modulation. These include CDMA, W- CDMA and digital television. The signals are characterized by their appearance on a spectrum analyzer display — a high amplitude noise- like signal of bandwidths up to 20 MHz. An 8 MHz bandwidth digital television signal is shown in Figure 3- 5.
Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 3 CDMA Signal Measurements Figure 3- 6 and Figure 3- 7 show typical results obtained when measuring a CDMA signal. In these examples, the error is determined by measuring the source at the amplitude of interest, with and without CDMA modulation, adding attenuation until the difference between the two values stops changing. The CW sensor in Figure 3- 6 uses correction factors to correct for power levels beyond its square law operating region. 1.
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Multitone Signal Measurements In addition to wide dynamic range, the E9300 E- Series power sensors also have an exceptionally flat calibration factor versus frequency response as shown in Figure 3- 8. This is ideal for amplifier intermodulation distortion measurements where the components of the two- tone or multitone test signal can be separated by hundreds of MHz.
Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 3 Measuring TDMA Signals Power Meter and Sensor Operation The voltages generated by the diode detectors in the power sensor can be very small. Gain and signal conditioning are required to allow accurate measurement. This is achieved using a 400 Hz square wave output from the power meter to drive a chopper- amplifier in the power sensor.
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 5 Press to display the Meas Avg Count pop- up. 6 Use the numeric keys to enter the required value. 7 Press Enter to complete the entry. NOTE Ensure that the filter is not reset when a step increase or decrease in power is detected by switching the step detection off. Procedure Switch off step detection as follows: 1 Press . On dual channel meters, select the required channel. 2 Use the and 3 Press to check the step detection to Off.
Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 3 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Measurements The low frequency range of the E9304A make it the ideal choice for making EMC measurements to CISPR (Comite International Special Perturbations Radioelectriques) requirements, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) test applications such as the radiated immunity test (IEC61000- 4- 3). DC coupling of the E9304A input allows excellent low frequency coverage.
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Measurement Accuracy and Speed The power meter has no internal ranges. The only ranges you can set are those of the E9300 E- Series power sensors (and other Agilent Technologies E- Series power sensors). With an E- Series E9300 power sensor the range can be set either automatically or manually. Use autoranging when you are not sure of the power level you are about to measure.
Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors 3 Procedure Set the range as follows: 1 Press . On dual channel meters, select the required channel. 2 Use the and 3 Press keys to select the Range: setting field. to display the Range pop- up. 4 Use the and 5 Press to complete the entry. keys to select the required setting. Measurement Considerations While autoranging is a good starting point, it is not ideal for all measurements.
3 Using E9300 E-Series Power Sensors Accuracy The value of –12 dBm lies in the lower range of the E- Series E9300 power sensor. In autoranging mode (“AUTO”), the power meter determines the average power level is below –10 dBm and selects the low power path. However, the peak amplitude of –6 dBm is beyond the specified, square law response range of the low power path diodes.The high power path (–10 dBm to +20 dBm) should be used to ensure a more accurate measurement of this signal.
N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 4 Using E4410 E-Series Power Sensors Introduction 120 Power Meter Configuration 121 Measurement Accuracy 123 This chapter describes how to use your E4410 E-Series power sensors with N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters.
4 Using E4410 E-Series Power Sensors Introduction The E4410 E- Series power sensors are diode based power sensors. They are intended for the measurement of CW microwave power levels in a wide dynamic range from –70 dBm to +20 dBm (100 pW to 100 mW). These are high- speed power sensors, and do not incorporate narrow- bandwidth averaging used in average- power sensors. Signals with digital, pulse, or other forms of amplitude modulation may introduce measurement errors.
Using E4410 E-Series Power Sensors 4 Power Meter Configuration The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters automatically recognize an E- Series E4410 power sensor when it is connected. The sensor calibration data is automatically read by the power meter. Also, the power meter automatically configures the averaging as shown in Figure 4- 1.
4 Using E4410 E-Series Power Sensors Default Channel Setup When an E- Series E4410 power sensor is connected the following Channel Setup is automatically configured. Carrying out a Preset returns the channel to this configuration.
Using E4410 E-Series Power Sensors 4 Measurement Accuracy Power sensors have small errors in their response over frequency. The response of each sensor is measured during manufacture (and during periodic calibration). With E- Series power sensors, the resulting frequency compensation information is written into Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). This allows the frequency and calibration data to be downloaded to the power meter automatically.
4 Using E4410 E-Series Power Sensors NOTE You can reduce the steps required to carry out the zero and calibration procedure as follows: 1 Connect the power sensor to the POWER REF output. 2 Press Zero + Cal and Zero + Cal , Zero + Cal A . (For dual channel meters, press or Zero + Cal B as required). Now, set the frequency of the signal you want to measure. The power meter automatically selects the appropriate calibration factor. 6 Press 7 Use the press .
N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors Introduction 126 Power Meter Configuration 127 Measurement Accuracy 131 Frequency Specific Calibration Factors 132 Sensor Calibration Tables 136 This chapter describes how to use your 8480 Series power sensors with N1913/1914A EPM Series power meter.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors Introduction The 8480 Series offers a wide range of both thermocouple and diode based power sensors. Many have very specific applications, for example the 110 GHz W8486A or the +44 dBm 8482B. However, they do not have their calibration factors stored in EEPROM, unlike all E- Series, and require that you use default calibration tables or manually enter the required correction factors. Likewise, they cannot be used to make peak or time gated measurements.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Power Meter Configuration The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters automatically recognize an 8480 Series power sensor when it is connected. The averaging settings shown in Figure 5- 1 are automatically configured.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors Default Channel Setup Figure 5- 2 shows the Channel Setup configured automatically. Presetting returns the power meter to this configuration.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 8480 Series Sensors Connection Requirements Table 5-1 8480 Series connection requirements Sensor Connection Requirements 8481A 8481H 8482A 8482H These power sensors connect directly to the POWER REF. 8481D 8484A Prior to calibration, an Agilent 11708A 30 dB reference attenuator should be connected between the power sensor and the POWER REF. Remove this attenuator from the power sensor input before making measurements.
5 130 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors Sensor Connection Requirements 8487A This sensor requires an APC 2.4 (f) to 50 Ω (m) N-Type adapter (08487-60001) to connect to the POWER REF. Remove this adapter before making measurements. 8487D Prior to calibration, an Agilent 11708A 30 dB reference attenuator and an APC 2.4 (f) to 50 Ω (m) N-Type adapter (08487-60001) should be connected between the power sensor and the POWER REF. Remove this adapter before making measurements.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Measurement Accuracy Power sensors have small errors in their response over frequency. The response of each sensor is measured during manufacture (and during periodic calibration) and the resulting frequency compensation information is supplied in the form of calibration factors. Using calibration factors enables you to achieve improved measurement accuracy.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors Frequency Specific Calibration Factors This section shows you how to make a measurement using the calibration factor for the frequency of the signal you want to measure. Tip This method is best suited to making several measurements at one frequency as you need only enter a small amount of data. Using this method requires the following steps: 1 Zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor combination.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Figure 5-3 Reference Calibration Factor pop-up window 5 Press % to complete the entry. Now, zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor combination as follows: 6 Press displayed. and the channel Zero softkey. The Zeroing pop- up is 7 Connect the power sensor to the POWER REF output. 8 Press and the channel Cal softkey to start the calibration routine. The Calibrating pop- up is then displayed.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 10 To change the settings, use the Fac value field and press and keys to highlight the Cal to display the Cal Factor pop- up. Use the numeric keypad to enter the required value in the Cal Factor pop- up window. Figure 5-4 Calibration factor pop-up window 11 Press % to complete the entry. 12 Connect the power sensor to the signal to be measured. 13 The corrected measurement result is displayed.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Example To make a measurement on channel A with a power sensor which has a reference calibration factor of 99.8% and a calibration factor of 97.6% at the measurement frequency. 1 Disconnect the power sensor from any signal source. , REF CFs and the channel REF CF softkey. 2 Press 3 Use the numeric keypad to enter 99.8 in the Ref Cal Factor pop- up window. 4 Press % to complete the entry. 5 Press displayed. and the channel Zero softkey.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors Sensor Calibration Tables This section describes how to use sensor calibration tables. Sensor calibration tables store the measurement calibration factors, for a power sensor model or for a specific power sensor, in the power meter. They are used to correct measurement results. Use sensor calibration tables when you want to make power measurements over a range of frequencies using one or more power sensors.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Procedure First select the table for the sensor you are using as follows: 1 Press , Tables , Sensor Cal Tables . 2 Use the and keys to highlight one of the 20 table titles and press Table to highlight On . Figure 5-6 Sensor table selected NOTE When no data is contained in the highlighted table, the Table key is disabled (grayed out). 3 Press Done to complete the selection of the calibration factor table. Figure 5- 7 shows which offset table is selected.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Press to display the Frequency pop- up window. Use the numeric keypad to enter the required value in the Frequency pop- up window. 6 To confirm your choice, press the appropriate unit softkey. 7 Connect the power sensor to the signal to be measured. 8 The corrected measurement result is now displayed.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Editing/Generating Sensor Calibration Tables To help achieve the best accuracy in your measurement you can enter the values supplied for the sensors you are using by editing the installed sensor calibration tables or by generating your own custom tables. You cannot delete any of the 20 existing calibration tables or create any additional tables. However, you can edit or delete the content of each table.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors Editing frequency dependent offset tables requires the following steps: 1 Identify and select the table you want to edit. 2 Rename the table. 3 Enter the frequency and offset pairs. 4 Save the table. Procedure First select the table you want to edit as follows: 1 Press screen. , Tables , Sensor Cal Tables to display the Sensor Tbls Figure 5-9 “Sensor Tbls” screen 2 Choose the table you want to edit using the Edit Table 140 and keys.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Figure 5-10 “Edit Cal” display 3 Highlight the table title using the use and keys. Press Change and the , , and keys to select and change the characters in the Table Name pop- up to create the name you want to use. Figure 5-11 Edit table title pop-up • Pressing Insert Char adds a new character to the right of the selected character. • Pressing Delete Char removes the selected character. 4 Press Enter to complete the entry.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors NOTE A calibration factor in the range of 1% to 150% can be entered. The following rules apply to naming sensor calibration tables: • The name must consist of no more than 12 characters. • All characters must be upper or lower case alphabetic characters, or numeric (0-9), or an underscore (_). • No other characters are allowed. • No spaces are allowed in the name.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 5 Pre-installed Calibration Table Contents The following lists detail the contents of the installed sensor calibration tables. RCF 0.1 MHz 110 GHz RCF 50 MHz 100 MHz 2 GHz 3 GHz 4 GHz 5 GHz 6 GHz 7 GHz 8 GHz 9 GHz 10 GHz 11 GHz 12.4 GHz 13 GHz 14 GHz 15 GHz 16 GHz 17 GHz 18 GHz RCF 0.1 MHz 0.3 MHz 1 MHz 3 MHz 10 MHz 30 MHz 100 MHz 300 MHz 1 GHz 2 GHz 3 GHz DEFAULT 100 100 100 Agilent 8481A 100 100 99.8 99 98.6 98 97.7 97.4 97.1 96.6 96.2 95.4 94.9 94.3 94.3 93.2 93 93 92.
5 Using 8480 Series Power Sensors 4.2 GHz 91 Agilent R8486A 100 100 94.9 94.9 95.4 94.3 94.1 93.5 93.7 93.7 94.9 94.5 94.4 93.7 94.9 93.5 93.9 92.3 Agilent 8485A RCF 100 50 MHz 100 2 GHz 99.5 4 GHz 98.9 6 GHz 98.5 8 GHz 98.3 10 GHz 98.1 11 GHz 97.8 12 GHz 97.6 12.4 GHz 97.6 14 GHz 97.4 16 GHz 97 RCF 50 MHz 26.5 GHz 27 GHz 28 GHz 29 GHz 30 GHz 31 GHz 32 GHz 33 GHz 34 GHz 34.5 GHz 35 GHz 36 GHz 37 GHz 38 GHz 39 GHz 40 GHz 144 Agilent N8485A continued 17 GHz 96.7 18 GHz 96.6 19 GHz 96 20 GHz 96.
Using 8480 Series Power Sensors RCF 50 MHz 100 MHz 500 MHz 1 GHz 2 GHz 3 GHz 4 GHz 5 GHz 6 GHz 7 GHz 8 GHz 9 GHz 10 GHz 11 GHz 12 GHz 13 GHz 14 GHz 15 GHz 16 GHz 17 GHz 18 GHz 19 GHz 20 GHz 21 GHz 22 GHz 23 GHz 24 GHz 25 GHz 26 GHz 27 GHz 28 GHz 29 GHz 30 GHz 31 GHz 32 GHz 33 GHz 34 GHz Agilent 8487A 100 100 99.9 98.6 99.8 99.5 98.9 98.8 98.6 98.5 98.4 98.3 98.3 98.3 98.1 97.9 98 98.2 97.7 96.8 97 96.3 95.9 95.2 95.6 95.5 95.4 95 95.4 95.2 95.1 95 94.4 94 93.7 93.8 93 93.
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N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors Introduction 148 Power Meter Configuration Changes 149 Default Channel Setup 150 N8480 Series Sensors Connection Requirements 151 N8480 Series Power Sensors (excluding Option CFT) 152 N8480 Series Power Sensors with Option CFT 154 This chapter describes how to use your N8480 Series power sensors with N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors Introduction The N8480 Series power sensors are replacement for the 8480 Series power sensors (excluding the D- model sensors) with build- in Electrically Erasable Programmable Read- Only Memory (EEPROM)1. The N8480 Series power sensors are used for measuring the average power supplied by RF or microwave source or a device- under- test (DUT). The N8480 Series power sensors place a 50 Ω load on the RF or microwave source.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 Power Meter Configuration Changes The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meter recognizes when a N8480 Series power sensor is connected. The N8480 Series power sensors’ (excluding Option CFT) calibration data is automatically read by the power meter. In addition, the auto- averaging settings shown in Figure 6- 1 are automatically configured.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors Default Channel Setup When a N8480 Series power sensor is connected, the following Channel Setup is automatically configured. Presetting returns the channel to this configuration.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 N8480 Series Sensors Connection Requirements Table 6-2 N8480 Series connection requirements Sensor Connection Requirements N8481A N8482A These power sensors connect directly to the POWER REF. N8485A This power sensor requires an APC 3.5 (f) to 50 Ω (m) N-Type adapter (08485-60005) to connect to the POWER REF.Remove this adapter before making measurements. N8487A N8488A This sensor requires an APC 2.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors N8480 Series Power Sensors (excluding Option CFT) Power sensors have small errors in their response over frequency. The response of each sensor is measured during manufacture (and during periodic calibration). With N8480 Series power sensors (excluding Option CFT), the resulting frequency compensation information is written into EEPROM. This allows the frequency and calibration data to be downloaded to the power meter automatically.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 Now, set the frequency of the signal you want to measure. The power meter automatically selects the appropriate calibration factor. 4 Press . On dual channel meters, select the required channel. 5 Use the and press keys to highlight the Frequency value field and to display the Frequency pop- up. Use the numeric keypad to enter the required value in the Frequency pop- up window. Figure 6-4 Frequency pop-up 6 Confirm your choice by pressing MHz or GHz .
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors N8480 Series Power Sensors with Option CFT Power sensors have small errors in their response over frequency. The response of each sensor is measured during manufacture (and during periodic calibration). The calibration factor table written into EEPROM is not applicable for N8480 Series power sensors with Option CFT.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 Procedure 1 Ensure that the power sensor is disconnected from any signal source. 2 Refer to the connection requirements in Table 6- 2 and ensure that the sensor is ready for connection to the POWER REF. 3 Check the current reference calibration factor setting by pressing , 1 of 2 , REF CFs . The value is displayed under the channel Ref CF softkey.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors NOTE You can reduce the steps required to carry out the zero and calibration procedure as follows: 1 Connect the power sensor to the POWER REF output. 2 Press Zero + Cal and Zero + Cal , Zero + Cal A . (For dual channel meters, press or Zero + Cal B as required). Now, set the sensor calibration factor for the frequency of the signal to measure. 9 Check the current reference calibration factor setting by pressing , Offset .
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 11 Press % to complete the entry. 12 Connect the power sensor to the signal to be measured. 13 The corrected measurement result is displayed. Calibration factor Figure 6-7 Calibration factor displayed Example To make a measurement on channel A with a power sensor which has a reference calibration factor of 99.8% and a calibration factor of 97.6% at the measurement frequency. 1 Disconnect the power sensor from any signal source.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 Connect the power sensor to the POWER REF output. and the channel Cal softkey to start the calibration 7 Press routine. The Calibrating pop- up is then displayed. 8 Press , Offset . The value is displayed on the Cal Fac field. 9 Use the and keys to highlight the Cal Fac value field and press to display the Cal Factor pop- up. Use the numeric keypad to enter 97.6 in the Cal Factor pop- up window. 10 Press % to complete the entry.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 Sensor Calibration Tables This section describes how to use sensor calibration tables. Sensor calibration tables store the measurement calibration factors, for a power sensor model or for a specific power sensor, in the power meter. They are used to correct measurement results. Use sensor calibration tables when you want to make power measurements over a range of frequencies using one or more power sensors.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors Selecting a Sensor Calibration Table You can select a calibration factor table from the followed by Tables and Sensor Cal Table . key menu The State column indicates if any calibration factor tables are currently selected. The Sensor Tbls screen is shown in Figure 6- 8. NOTE You can also view which sensor table is being used by pressing the , Offset and use the and keys to highlight the CF Table setting field and press to display the table.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors NOTE 6 When no data is contained in the highlighted table, the Table key is disabled (grayed out). 3 Press Done to complete the selection of the calibration factor table. 4 Press Done again to display the measurement screen. Figure 6- 9 shows which offset table is selected. Sensor Table 2 Selected Figure 6-9 Frequency dependent offset indicator 5 To change the frequency, press highlight the Frequency field.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors NOTE When Single Numeric display mode is chosen, the frequency you entered and the sensor table identifier is displayed in the upper window. Also, pressing , Offset displays the frequency you entered and calibration factor for each channel derived from the selected sensor tables.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 Editing/Generating Sensor Calibration Tables NOTE Predefined sensor calibration factor table stored in power meter is not applicable for Agilent N8480 Series power sensors with Option CFT. Therefore, users are required to create a new sensor calibration table for the sensors when a sensor calibration table is needed.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 2 The 8482B and 8482H power sensors use the same data as the 8482A. There are also ten sensor calibration tables named CUSTOM_0 through CUSTOM_9. These tables do not contain any data when the power meter is shipped from the factory.
Using N8480 Series Power Sensors 6 Figure 6-12 “Edit Cal” display 3 Highlight the table title using the use and keys. Press Change and the , , and keys to select and change the characters in the Table Name pop- up to create the name you want to use. Figure 6-13 Edit table title pop-up • Pressing Insert Char adds a new character to the right of the selected character. • Pressing Delete Char removes the selected character. 4 Press Enter to complete the entry.
6 Using N8480 Series Power Sensors NOTE A calibration factor in the range of 1% to 150% can be entered. The following rules apply to naming sensor calibration tables: • The name must consist of no more than 12 characters. • All characters must be upper or lower case alphabetic characters, or numeric (0-9), or an underscore (_). • No other characters are allowed. • No spaces are allowed in the name.
N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 7 Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors Introduction 168 Power Meter Configuration 169 Measurement Accuracy 172 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Measurements 174 Measurement Accuracy and Speed 175 This chapter describes how to use your U2000 Series USB power sensors with N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters Agilent Technologies 167
7 Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors Introduction The U2000 Series USB power sensors are true average, wide dynamic range RF microwave power sensors. They are based on a dual sensor diode pair/attenuator/diode pair. This technique ensures the diodes in the selected signal path are kept in their square law region, thus the output current (and voltage) is proportional to the input power.
Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors 7 Power Meter Configuration The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters automatically recognize an U2000 Series USB power sensor when it is connected. The sensor calibration data is automatically read by the power meter. The power meter also configures the auto- averaging settings shown in Figure 7- 1 to suit the power sensor characteristics. NOTE These values are valid only for the power meter channel connected with U2000 Series USB power sensors.
Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors Expected Power Low Power Path Sensor Dynamic Range High Power Path U2000/1B U2000/1/2H U2000/1/2/4A 30 dBm 20 dBm 25 dBm 15 dBm 20 dBm 10 dBm 44 dBm 25 dBm 15 dBm 35 dBm 15 dBm 5 dBm 23 dBm 3 dBm –7 dBm 25 dBm 5 dBm –5 dBm 24 dBm 4 dBm –6 dBm 19 dBm –1 dBm –11 dBm 21 dBm 1 dBm –9 dBm 18 dBm –2 dBm –12 dBm 10 dBm –10 dBm –20 dBm 15 dBm –5 dBm –15 dBm 7 dBm –13 dBm –23 dBm –3 dBm –23 dBm –33 dBm –8 dBm –28 dBm –38 dBm –5
Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors 7 Default Channel Setup When an U2000 Series USB power sensor is connected, the following Channel Setup is automatically configured. Carrying out a Preset returns the power meter to this configuration.
7 Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors Measurement Accuracy Power sensors have small errors in their response over frequency. The response of each sensor is measured during manufacture to determine correction factors. With U2000 Series USB power sensors, correction factors are stored in a 3 MB Flash memory and are downloaded to the power meter automatically. Ensure that the USB power sensor is zeroed. Calibration is not required as it is performed internally.
Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors 7 Now, set the frequency of the signal you want to measure. The power meter automatically selects the appropriate calibration factor. 4 Press . On dual channel meters select the required channel. 5 Use the and keys to highlight the Frequency value field and press to display the Frequency pop- up. Use the numeric keypad to enter the required value in the Frequency pop- up window. Figure 7-3 Frequency pop-up 6 Confirm your choice by pressing MHz or GHz .
7 Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Measurements The low frequency range of the U2004A make it the ideal choice for making EMC measurements to CISPR (Comite International Special Perturbations Radioelectriques) requirements, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) test applications such as the radiated immunity test (IEC61000- 4- 3). DC coupling of the U2004A input allows excellent low frequency coverage.
Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors 7 Measurement Accuracy and Speed The power meter has no internal ranges. The only ranges you can set are those of the U2000 Series USB power sensors. With an U2000 Series power sensor the range can be set either automatically or manually. Use autoranging when you are unsure of the power level you are about to measure. CAUTION To prevent damage to your sensor do not exceed the power levels specified in the sensor user’s guide. The U2004A sensor is DC coupled.
7 Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors Procedure Set the range as follows: 1 Press . On dual channel meters, select the required channel. 2 The Range: setting field will be selected. Press Range pop- up. 3 Use the and 4 Press to complete the entry. to display the keys to select the required setting. Measurement Considerations While autoranging is a good starting point, it is not ideal for all measurements.
Using U2000 Series USB Power Sensors 7 Accuracy The value of –12 dBm lies in the lower range of the U2000/1/4A sensor. In autoranging mode (“AUTO”), the power meter determines the average power level is below –10 dBm and selects the low power path. However, the peak amplitude of –6 dBm is beyond the specified, square law response range of the low power path diodes.The high power path (–10 dBm to +20 dBm) should be used to ensure a more accurate measurement of this signal.
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N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 8 Using U8480 Series USB Thermocouple Sensors Introduction 180 Power Meter Configuration 181 Measurement Accuracy 183 Zeroing 185 Calibrating 187 Zero+Cal 189 FDO Table Editing 189 Reference Manual 190 This chapter describes how to use your U8480 Series USB thermocouple sensors with N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters Agilent Technologies 179
8 Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors Introduction The U8480 Series is a USB- based standalone thermocouple power sensor and meter. The U8480 Series consists of two models; U8481A (DC to 18 GHz) and U8485A (DC to 33 GHz). The U8480 Series allows direct measurement of average RF or microwave power through the heating effect it has on a terminating load. It measures power from –35 dBm to 20 dBm, at a DC to 33 GHz frequency range.
Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors 8 Power Meter Configuration The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters automatically recognize an U8480 Series USB thermocouple sensor when it is connected. The sensor calibration data is automatically read by the power meter. The power meter also configures the auto- averaging settings shown in Figure 8- 1 to suit the thermocouple sensor characteristics. These values are valid only for the power meter channel connected with U8480 Series USB thermocouple sensors.
8 Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors Default Channel Setup When an U8480 Series USB thermocouple sensor is connected, the following Channel Setup is automatically configured. Carrying out a Preset returns the power meter to this configuration. The U8480 Series thermocouple sensor does not support auto- ranging.
Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors 8 Measurement Accuracy Thermocouple sensors have small errors in their response over frequency. The response of each sensor is measured during manufacture to determine correction factors. With the U8480 Series thermocouple sensors, correction factors are stored in a 3 MB Flash memory and are downloaded to the power meter automatically. Using calibration factors enables improved measurement accuracy.
8 Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors Figure 8-3 Frequency pop-up 6 Confirm your choice by pressing MHz or GHz . 7 Press key to close the Channel Setup screen. 8 Proceed to make the measurement. 9 Reconnect any required attenuators or adaptors and connect the thermocouple sensor to the signal to be measured. The corrected measurement result is displayed.
Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors 8 Zeroing The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters support the ability to perform zeroing on the U8480 USB thermocouple sensor via the front panel and SCPI. However, the N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters do not support the choosing of the zeroing type and auto zeroing for the U8480 USB thermocouple sensor.
8 Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors Figure 8-5 Zeroing error pop-up message Error messages will be logged in the Error Log in System > Error List.
Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors 8 Calibrating The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters are able to perform calibration for the U8480 USB thermocouple sensor via the front panel and SCPI. The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters also support auto calibration (Auto Cal) for the U8480 USB thermocouple sensor. Both internal (Int) and external (Ext) calibration is supported by the N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters.
8 Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors Figure 8-7 Calibration pop-up message Should an error occur during calibration, the following pop- up message will appear: Figure 8-8 Calibration error pop-up message Error messages will be logged in the Error Log in System > Error List.
Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors 8 Zero+Cal The N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters are able to perform Zero+Cal for the U8480 USB thermocouple sensor via the front panel and SCPI. The Zero+Cal softkey will be greyed out if no sensor is connected to that particular channel. When the Zero+Cal softkey is pressed, zeroing and external calibration will be triggered for the U8480 USB thermocouple sensor. The calibration type will not be changed.
8 Using U8480 Series USB Power Sensors Reference Manual A link to the reference manuals is available under System > Service in the form of a QR code. The softkey is as shown in the figure below: Figure 8-10 Reference manual softkey When you press the softkey, a screen containing a QR code appears: Figure 8-11 QR code screen To exit this screen, you may use either one of the following steps: 1 Press any front panel key. 2 Place the N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters in remote (RMT) mode.
Agilent N1913A/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 9 Maintenance Self Test 192 Error Messages 196 Operator Maintenance 207 Contacting Agilent Technologies 208 Erasing Memory Data 211 Returning Your Power Meter for Service 212 Agilent Sales and Service Offices 214 This chapter describes the built-in tests, error messages and general maintenance.
9 Maintenance Self Test The power meter’s troubleshooting mode self test can accessed via the front panel or remotely. The front panel softkey menu allows you to run individual tests, whereas the remote command runs a complete series of tests as listed in“Remote Testing” on page 194.
Maintenance 9 Instrument Self Test If Self Test is selected, the following tests are run: (These are the same tests which are run using the *TST? command.) • Test Point Voltages • Calibrator • Fan • RTC Battery • Channel CW Path As each test takes place, the name of the test is listed on the screen. While a test is running, the message Testing... appears beside the name of the test. As each stage of the test is completed, the Testing... message is replaced by either Passed or Failed.
9 Maintenance Remote Testing To invoke the remote self test, the IEEE 488.1 compliant standard command, *TST? is used. This command runs a full self test and returns one of the following codes: • 0 - no tests failed • 1 - one or more tests failed The remote self test consists of the following tests: The communications assembly is tested implicitly, in that the command will not be accepted or return a result unless the remote interface is functioning correctly.
Maintenance 9 and measured internally. A pass or fail result is returned. Fan This test confirms that the internal cooling fan is operating. Real Time Clock (RTC) Battery The RTC battery provides power for the real time clock circuitry on the motherboard when the power meter is powered off. The real time clock is used to provide the timestamp needed for N8480 Series power sensors’ aging sense data.
9 Maintenance Error Messages Introduction This section contains information about error messages. It explains how to read the power meter’s error queue and lists all error messages and their probable causes. When there is a hardware related problem, for example, a power sensor overload, the error message is displayed on the status line at the top of the display. In addition, the errors are also written to the error queue.
Maintenance 9 To read the error queue from the front panel: , Error List and use Next • Press message. to scroll through each error To read the error queue from the remote interface use: • the SYSTem:ERRor? command. Error queue messages have the following format: Error Number , “ Error Description ; Device Dependent Info ” Error Queue Message For example, –330, “Self- test Failed;Battery Fault”. Errors are retrieved in a first in first out (FIFO) order.
9 Maintenance Error Message List –101 Invalid character An invalid character was found in the command string. You may have inserted a character such as #, $, or % in the command header or within a parameter. For example, LIM:LOW O#. –102 Syntax error Invalid syntax was found in the command string. For example, LIM:CLE:AUTO, 1 or LIM:CLE: AUTO 1. –103 Invalid separator An invalid separator was found in the command string.
Maintenance –113 9 Undefined header A command was received that is not valid for this power meter. You may have misspelled the command, it may not be a valid command or you may have the wrong interface selected. If you are using the short form of the command, remember that it may contain up to four letters. For example, TRIG:SOUR IMM. –121 Invalid character in number An invalid character was found in the number specified for a parameter value. For example, SENS:AVER:COUN 128#H.
9 Maintenance –148 Character data not allowed A discrete parameter was received but a character string or a numeric parameter was expected. Check the list of parameters to verify that you have used a valid parameter type. For example, MEM:CLE CUSTOM_1. –151 Invalid string data An invalid string was received. Check to see if you have enclosed the character string in single or double quotes. For example, MEM:CLE “CUSTOM_1.
Maintenance –213 9 Init ignored Indicates that a request for a measurement initiation was ignored as the power meter was already initiated. For example, INIT:CONT ON INIT. –214 Trigger deadlock TRIG:SOUR was set to HOLD or BUS and a READ? or MEASure? was attempted, expecting TRIG:SOUR to be set to IMMediate. –220 Parameter error;Frequency list must be in ascending order. Indicates that the frequencies entered using the MEMory:TABLe:FREQuency command are not in ascending order.
9 Maintenance –230 Data corrupt or stale This occurs when a FETC? is attempted and either a reset has been received or the power meter state has changed such that the current measurement is invalidated (for example, a change of frequency setting or triggering conditions).
Maintenance –231 9 Data questionable;CAL ERROR Power meter calibration failed. The most likely cause is attempting to calibrate without applying a 1 mW power to the power sensor. –231 Data questionable;CAL ERROR ChA Power meter calibration failed on Channel A. The most likely cause is attempting to calibrate without applying a 1 mW power to the power sensor. –231 Data questionable;CAL ERROR ChB Power meter calibration failed on Channel B.
9 Maintenance –231 Data questionable;ZERO ERROR ChB Power meter zeroing failed on Channel B. The most likely cause is attempting to zero when some power signal is being applied to the power sensor. –241 Hardware missing The power meter is unable to execute the command because either no power sensor is connected or it expects an E-series power sensor and one is not connected.
Maintenance –310 9 System error;Sensors connected to both front and rear inputs. You cannot connect two power sensors to the one channel input. In this instance the power meter detects power sensors connected to both it’s front and rear channel inputs. –351 Configuration memory lost; storage fault Refer to “Memory Erase/Secure Erase” on page 91 to perform secure erase. –321 Out of memory The power meter required more memory than was available to run an internal operation.
9 Maintenance –362 Framing error in program The serial port receiver has detected a framing error and consequently, data integrity cannot be guaranteed. –363 Input buffer overrun The serial port receiver has been overrun and consequently, data has been lost. –410 Query INTERRUPTED A command was received which sends data to the output buffer, but the output buffer contained data from a previous command (the previous data is not overwritten).
Maintenance 9 Operator Maintenance This section describes how to replace the power line fuse and clean the power meter. If you need additional information about replacing parts or repairing the power meter, refer to the EPM Series Power Meter Service Guide. To clean the power meter, disconnect its supply power and wipe with a damp cloth only. The power line fuse is located within the power meter’s fuse holder assembly on the rear panel. For all voltages, the power meter uses a 250 V, T2.
9 Maintenance Contacting Agilent Technologies This section details what to do if you have a problem with your power meter. If you have a problem with your power meter, first refer to the section “Before calling Agilent Technologies”. This chapter contains a checklist that will help identify some of the most common problems.
Maintenance 9 Check the Basics Problems can be solved by repeating what was being performed when the problem occurred. A few minutes spent in performing these simple checks may eliminate time spent waiting for instrument repair. Before calling Agilent Technologies or returning the power meter for service, please make the following checks: • Check that the line socket has power. • Check that the power meter is plugged into the proper ac power source. • Check that the power meter is switched on.
9 Maintenance • from the front panel by pressing , 1 of 2 , Service , Version . • from the serial number label. The serial number label is attached to the rear of each Agilent Technologies instrument. This label has two instrument identification entries. The first provides the instruments serial number and the second provides the identification number for each option built into the instrument.
Maintenance 9 Erasing Memory Data If you need to erase the EPM Series Power Meter’s memory, for example, before you return it to Agilent Technologies for repair or calibration, of all data stored in it. The memory data erased includes the save/recall states and power on last states. The following procedure explains how to do this. 1. Press the key. 2. Press 1 of 2 . 3. Press Service . 4. Press Secure Erase . 5. If you are sure, press the Confirm key. 6.
9 Maintenance Returning Your Power Meter for Service Use the information in this section if you need to return your power meter to Agilent Technologies. Packaging the Power Meter for Shipment Use the following steps to package the power meter for shipment to Agilent Technologies for service: • Fill in a blue service tag (available at the end of this guide) and attach it to the power meter. Please be as specific as possible about the nature of the problem.
Maintenance 9 • Surround the power meter with at least 3 to 4 inches of packing material, or enough to prevent the power meter from moving in the carton. If packing foam is not available, the best alternative is SD- 240 Air Cap TM from Sealed Air Corporation (Commerce, CA 90001). Air Cap looks like a plastic sheet covered with 1- 1/4 inch air filled bubbles. Use the pink Air Cap to reduce static electricity.
9 Maintenance Agilent Sales and Service Offices In any correspondence or telephone conversations, refer to the power meter by its model number and full serial number. With this information, the Agilent representative can quickly determine whether your unit is still within its warranty period. UNITED STATES Agilent Technologies (tel) 1 800 829 4444 CANADA Agilent Technologies Canada Inc.
Agilent N1913/1914A EPM Series Power Meters User’s Guide 10 Specifications and Characteristics Introduction 216 Power Meter Specifications 218 Power Sensor Specifications 219 Power Meter Supplemental Characteristics 223 Measurement Characteristics 232 Rear Panel Inputs and Output Connections 233 1 mW Power Reference 234 Environmental Conditions 235 Physical Characteristics 236 Regulatory Information 237 This chapter describes the specifications and characteristics of your N1913/1914A EPM Series power mete
10 Specifications and Characteristics Introduction This chapter details the N1913/1914A EPM Series power meters’ specifications and supplemental characteristics. Specification Definitions There are two types of product specifications: • Warranted specifications • Characteristic specifications Warranted specifications Warranted specifications are covered by the product warranty and apply after a 30- minute warm- up.
Specifications and Characteristics 10 • The second group of characteristic types describes 'statistically' the aggregate performance of the population of products. These characteristics describe the expected behavior of the population of products. They do not guarantee the performance of any individual product. No measurement uncertainty value is accounted for in the specification. These specifications are referred to as typical.
10 Specifications and Characteristics Power Meter Specifications Frequency Range 9 kHz to 110 GHz, power sensor dependant Power Range –70 dBm to +44 dBm (100 pW to 24 W), power sensor dependant Power Sensors Compatibility • Agilent 8480 Series power sensors • Agilent E9300 E–Series average power sensors • Agilent E4410 E–Series average power sensors • Agilent N8480 Series power sensors • Agilent U2000 Series average USB power sensors Single Sensor Dynamic Range • 90 dB maximum (Agilent E4410 E- Series
Specifications and Characteristics 10 Power Sensor Specifications Definitions Zero Set In any power measurement, the power meter must initially be set to zero with no power applied to the power sensor. Zero setting is accomplished within the power meter by digitally correcting for residual offsets.
10 Specifications and Characteristics Zero Set (digital settability of zero): Power sensor dependent (refer to Table 10- 1 and Table 10- 2). For Agilent E- Series power sensors, this specification applies when zeroing is performed with the sensor input disconnected from the POWER REF.
Specifications and Characteristics Power sensor 10 Zero set 2 N8482A (exclude Option CFT) ±25 nW N8485A (exclude Option CFT)2 ±25 nW N8486A R (exclude Option CFT)2 ±25 nW N8486A Q (exclude Option CFT)2 ±25 nW N8487A (exclude Option CFT)2 ±25 nW N8488A (exclude Option CFT)2 ±25 nW N8481B (exclude Option CFT)2 ±25 µW N8482B (exclude Option CFT)2 ±25 µW N8481H (exclude Option CFT)2 ±2.5 µW N8482H (exclude Option CFT)2 ±2.
10 Specifications and Characteristics Table 10-2 Zero Set (Internal and External) for U2000 Series Power sensor Range Zero Set (Internal) Zero Set (External) U2000/1/2A –60 dBm to –35 dBm ±1.5 nW ±600 pW –38 dBm to –15 dBm ±2 nW ±1.5 nW –20 dBm to –9 dBm ±12 nW ±10 nW –11 dBm to –5 dBm ±2 µW ±500 nW –7 dBm to 15 dBm ±4 µW ±1 µW U2004A U2000/1/2H U2000/1B NOTE 10 dBm to 20 dBm ±6 µW ±5 µW –60 dBm to –35 dBm ±2.8 nW ±600 pW –38 dBm to –15 dBm ±3 nW ±1.
Specifications and Characteristics 10 Power Meter Supplemental Characteristics Zero Drift of Sensors This parameter is also called long term stability and is the change in the power meter indication over a long time (within one hour) at a constant temperature after a 24- hour warm- up of the power meter. Power sensor dependent (refer to Table 10- 4). Measurement Noise Power sensor dependent (refer to Table 10- 3 and Table 10- 4). Averaging effects on measurement noise.
10 Specifications and Characteristics Table 10-4 Power sensor specifications Power Sensor Zero Drift1 Measurement Noise2 8481A4 <±10 nW <110 nW 4 <±10 mW <110 mW 8481B 4 8481D <±4 pW <45 pW 8481H4 <±1 mW <10 mW 8482A4 <±10 nW <110 nW 4 <±10 mW <110 mW 8482B 4 <±1 mW <10 mW 8483A4 <±10 nW <110 nW 8485A4 <±10 nW <110 nW <±4 pW <45 pW <±10 nW <110 nW <±6 pW <65 pW 4 <±10 nW <110 nW 4 <±6 pW <65 pW 4 V8486A <±40 nW <450 nW W8486A4 <±40 nW <450 nW 4 <±10 nW
Specifications and Characteristics Zero Drift1 Measurement Noise2 N8486A R (exclude Option CFT)4 <±3 nW <80 nW 4 Power Sensor <±3 nW <80 nW 4 N8487A (exclude Option CFT) <±3 nW <80 nW N8488A (exclude Option CFT)4 <±3 nW <80 nW 4 <±3 µW <80 µW 4 <±3 µW <80 µW 4 N8481H (exclude Option CFT) <±0.3 µW <8 µW N8482H (exclude Option CFT)4 <±0.
10 Specifications and Characteristics Table 10-5 U2000 Series power sensors specifications Power sensor Range Zero Drift1 U2000/1/2A –60 dBm to –35 dBm 200 pW 1 nW –38 dBm to –15 dBm 400 pW 1.5 nW U2004A U2000/1/2H U2000/1B NOTE Measurement Noise2 –20 dBm to –9 dBm 1.5 nW 15 nW –11 dBm to –5 dBm 50 nW 650 nW –7 dBm to 15 dBm 500 nW 1 µW 10 dBm to 20 dBm 2 µW 10 µW –60 dBm to –35 dBm 200 pW 1 nW –38 dBm to –15 dBm 400 pW 1.5 nW –20 dBm to –9 dBm 1.
Specifications and Characteristics 10 Settling Time For Agilent 8480 Series power sensors 0 to 99% settled readings over the GPIB. Manual filter, 10 dB decreasing power step (refer to Table 10- 6) Auto filter, default resolution, 10 dB decreasing power step, normal and x2 speed modes (refer to Figure 10- 1). Table 10-6 8480 Series Settling Time Number of Averages 1 2 4 8 16 32 64 128 256 512 1024 Settling Time (s) 0.15 0.2 0.3 0.5 1.1 1.9 3.4 6.6 13 27 57 0.15 0.18 0.22 0.35 0.
10 Specifications and Characteristics For Agilent E-Series power sensors For E441X series and E9300 series power sensors in normal and x2 speed modes, manual filter, 10 dB decreasing power step (refer to Table 10- 7). Auto- filter, default resolution, 10dB decreasing power step, normal and x2 speed modes (refer to Figure 10- 2 for E441X series sensors and Figure 10- 3 for E9300 series sensors).
Specifications and Characteristics Normal Mode High Power Path Typical Settling Times X2 Mode 70 ms 40 ms 210 ms 120 ms 400 ms 210 ms 1s 400 ms 70 ms 40 ms 120 ms 70 ms 1s 400 ms 6.5 s 3.4 ms 13 s 6.
10 Specifications and Characteristics For Agilent N8480 Series power sensors Typical Settling time: 0 to 99% settled readings over the GPIB. Auto filter, default resolution, 10 dB decreasing power step, normal and x2 speed modes (refer to Figure 10- 4). Manual filter, 10 dB decreasing power step (refer to Table 10- 8). Table 10-8 N8480 Series Settling Time Number of Averages 1 2 4 8 16 32 64 128 256 512 1024 Settling Time (s) 0.15 0.2 0.3 0.5 1.1 1.9 3.4 6.6 13 27 57 0.15 0.18 0.
Specifications and Characteristics 10 For Agilent U2000 Series power sensors In FAST mode (using Free Run trigger), for a 10 dB decreasing power step, the settling time is 25 ms2. Table 10-9 U2000 Series power sensors’settling time Number of Averages Settling Time1 (s) 1 2 4 8 16 32 64 128 256 512 1024 0.045 0.09 0.17 0.34 0.66 1.3 2.6 5.2 10.4 20.9 41.9 0.042 0.05 0.09 0.17 0.34 0.66 1.3 2.6 5.2 10.4 20.
10 Specifications and Characteristics Measurement Characteristics Measurement Speed Over the GPIB, three measurement speed modes are available as shown, along with the typical maximum measurement speed for each mode: • Normal: 20 readings/second • x2: 40 readings/second • Fast1: 400 readings/second, for Agilent E- Series power sensors only Maximum measurement speed is obtained using binary output in free run trigger mode.
Specifications and Characteristics 10 Rear Panel Inputs and Output Connections Recorder Output(s) Analog 0 to 1 V, 1 kW output impedance, BNC connectors GPIB USB 2.
10 Specifications and Characteristics 1 mW Power Reference NOTE The 1 mW Power Reference is provided for calibration of the E-Series, 8480 Series, and N8480 Series power sensors. Power Output: 1.00 mW (0.0 dBm) Factory set to ±0.4% traceable to the National Physical Laboratories (NPL), UK Accuracy: ±1.2% (0 - 55 ºC) ±0.4% (25 ±10 ºC) Frequency: 50 MHz nominal SWR: 1.08 (0 - 55 ºC) 1.
Specifications and Characteristics 10 Environmental Conditions General Complies with the requirements of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC.
10 Specifications and Characteristics Physical Characteristics Dimensions The following dimensions exclude front and rear panel protrusions: • 212.6 mm W x 88.5 mm H x 348.3 mm D (8.5 in x 3.5 in x 13.7 in) Weight 236 N1913A/1914A Weight (Net): ≤ 3.60 kg (approximately) N1913A/1914A Weight (Shipping): ≤ 8.
Specifications and Characteristics 10 Regulatory Information Electromagnetic Compatibility This product complies with the essential requirements of the following applicable European (EC) Directives, and carries the CE marking accordingly to Low Voltage Directive (2006/95/EC) and EMC Directive (2004/108/EC). EMC test have conforms to the IEC61326- 1:2005 / EN61326- 1:2006 and CISPR11:2003 / EN55011:2007 (Group 1, Class A).
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