Specifications

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Measurement challenges
Frequency-translation devices such as mixers, converters, and tuners are critical components
in most RF and microwave communication systems. They present unique measurement
challenges because their input and output frequencies are different. Network analyzers
used for testing these devices need to have a frequency-offset mode to detect output
frequencies different from the input.
Improved accuracy with advanced
measurement techniques
Agilent offers the scalar-mixer calibration, which corrects mismatch errors between the
analyzer and the device under test, and provides the most accurate conversion loss
measurements in the market. This eliminates external pads and minimizes connector
ware and tear due to different padding layouts required for different measurements.
The Frequency Converter Application (FCA) is another Agilent unique solution. It includes
an easy-to-use graphical user interface and vector-mixer calibration that enables absolute
group delay measurements without extensive knowledge. You can accurately measure
delay characteristics of your devices and no longer need to rely on a “golden” mixer.
Further more, the Embedded LO Measurements capability works with FCA, and allows the
measurement receiver to be tuned at IF frequencies without accessing the LO of the device.
With this technique, you can reduce the error significantly from absolute group delay
measurements, even though there is no access to the LO or reference clock of your devices.
Comprehensive mixer/converter measurements
with PNA-X
The PNA-X offers various advanced capabilities that simplify mixer/converter measure-
ments significantly. The two internal sources drive RF and LO ports without an external
signal generator. The built-in combining network combines the two tones internally for
IMD measurements
1
, and internal path switches allow switching between conversion
loss and IMD measurements or even external instruments, without disconnecting the
device from the PNA-X’s test ports. This dramatically reduces measurement complexity
and improves test productivity.
Measurement versatility with ENA
The ENA offers the frequency-offset mode (FOM) that provides frequency-offset
sweep, external signal source control, and fixed IF/RF measurement capabilities. The
ENA FOM option supports both scalar – and vector – mixer calibrations with inherited
mixer measurement techniques from the microwave PNA. These measurement tech-
niques are key to making extremely accurate measurements. Also, this option provides
harmonics measurement capabilities for non-linear devices such as amplifies, semi-
conductor switches, and front-end modules.
Measurement Solutions for Your Applications
Mixer and converter measurements
The PNA Frequency Converter
Application simplifies set up and
calibration for advanced mixer
measurements such as absolute
phase and group delay.
The PNA-X drives mixers with two
internal sources, making multiple
measurements with a single connection.
The ENA Frequency-Offset Mode
offers vector mixer calibration
technique that enables you to
perform accurate absolute
group delay measurements for
frequency-translating devices.
1. Mixer/converter IMD measurements require an external signal source.