Signal Generator Extension Modules Operational …...Operating Procedures for SGX Modules with...
Transcript of Signal Generator Extension Modules Operational …...Operating Procedures for SGX Modules with...
979 Second Street SE, Suite 309
Charlottesville, VA 22902-6172 (USA)
Tel: 434.297.3257; Fax: 434.297.3258
www.vadiodes.com
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc – All Rights Reserved
Signal Generator Extension Modules
Operational Manual
2020
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Contents
Section 1 – Introduction ...................................................................................................... Pages 2-4
Contents ..................................................................................................................................................... Page 2 SGX General Overview .............................................................................................................................. Page 3 Safety and Operational Guidelines ............................................................................................................ Page 4
Section 2 – Product Views, Block Diagrams and Specifications ...................... Pages 5-8
Major Components and Accessories ......................................................................................................... Page 5 Module Details – Front and Rear Panel Connections ................................................................................ Page 6 SGX Configurations .................................................................................................................................. Page 7 General Specifications and Technical Notes ............................................................................................. Page 8
Section 3 – Operational Procedures .................................................................................... Page 9
General Operating Procedures .................................................................................................................. Page 9
Appendix 1 – SGX Test Port Power ........................................................................... Pages 10-17
Test Port Power for WR15 and WR12 (High Power) .............................................................................. Page 10 Test Port Power for WR12 and WR10 ..................................................................................................... Page 11 Test Port Power for WR9.0 and WR8.0 ................................................................................................... Page 12 Test Port Power for WR6.5 and WR5.1 ................................................................................................... Page 13 Test Port Power for WR4.3 and WR3.4 ................................................................................................... Page 14 Test Port Power for WR2.8 and WR2.2 ................................................................................................... Page 15 Test Port Power for WR1.5 and WR1.0 ................................................................................................... Page 16 Test Port Power for WR0.65 .................................................................................................................... Page 17 User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) Performance .................................................................................... Page 18
Appendix 2 – Cable Loss Characterization .................................................................... Page 19
Cable Loss Characterization Data ........................................................................................................... Page 19
Appendix 3 – SGX Module Drawings ............................................................................. Pages 20
Mechanical Drawing – All SGX Modules with Bias Ports ........................................................................ Page 20
Addendum – Product Updates and Company Contacts ........................................... Page 21
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Introduction Section
One
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Signal Generator Extension Modules
Virginia Diodes’ Signal Generator Extension (SGX) modules are used to extend
the performance of microwave signal generators in the frequency range from 50
GHz through 1.1 THz, in frequency bands from WR15 (50-75 GHz) to WR0.65
(1,100-1,500 GHz). These modules offer high test port power with full waveguide
band coverage. Standard features include direct extension include TTL controlled
ON/OFF modulation up to ~ kHz and voltage controlled RF attenuation. Additional
options include and accessories are available. Options include: RF cables,
external micrometer driven variable RF output attenuators, increased amplitude
modulation rates (with an added PIN switch), test port extensions, and horn
antennas for free-space coupling.
SGX Modules vs. AMC Modules
Some SGX Modules were previously marketed by VDI as AMCs (Amplifier / Multiplier Chains). The term SGX now refers to the
full waveguide band standard modules described in this document. The AMC nomenclature is now designated for VDI products
that are signal generator extension modules customized for specific customer applications.
Front and Rear Views of SGX Extension Modules
SGX General Overview
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© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Read all instructions and information in this product manual before connecting a module to its power supply or a signal
generator. Operational procedures must be followed for proper function. If you have questions, contact VDI before
supplying power to or otherwise operating any VDI module.
VDI assumes the customer is familiar with microwave, millimeter wave and VDI products in general. The user and
customer are expected to understand all safety guidelines, health hazards and general advisories that may exist and
are associated with the use of this device. VDI is not responsible for any human hazards that may exist or may occur
while using this device.
RF Drive Limitations Recommended RF input power specifications are noted on the label on the top of every VDI module. See examples on
Page 8; these values provide optimal performance. Irreversible damage can result if input power exceeds stated
damage threshold.
Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) accepts no liability for damage or injury resulting from or caused by: • Improper use, disassembly or use for purposes other than those for which the module was designed;
• Use outside common safety, health or general advisories pertaining to microwave, millimeter wave and VDI products;
• Repairs carried out by persons other than VDI or its assigned agents;
• Tampering with or altering power cords or other cabling.
Waveguide Inspection / Test Port Care
• Inspect waveguide flanges prior to making connections.
• Extension module waveguide screws should be torqued in the range 20-50 cNm, greater torque can damage the
interface.
• Making a connection with metal debris between the waveguide flanges can damage the waveguide interface and prevent
repeatable connections.
• If debris is present, clean the flange with pre-dampened TexWipe wipes or swabs (e.g. Part Number TX1065).
• If these are not available, TexWipe cloths lightly dampened with ethanol may be used (e.g. Part Number TX604).
• Replace dust caps when the system is idle.
RF Cable Care • Use a torque of 90 cNm when making coaxial connections. Avoid sharp bends in cables.
General Operating Practices and Recommendations
• VDI SGX Modules are intended to be used in typical laboratory conditions.
• Use of any attachments and accessories not authorized by VDI or that do not meet VDI’s specifications may void a
module’s limited warranty and could pose a hazard to the operator, or cause lasting damage to the device.
• DC bias cables provided by VDI must be used. Alternative and replacement cables cannot be used unless the DC cables
are adequately rated, properly grounded and authorized for use by VDI.
• Each VDI module is intended for use only with its AC/DC converter as supplied by VDI. Use of other power supplies or
converters could damage the device or injure the operator.
• Disassembling a module can cause lasting damage to components and pose a hazard to the operator.
• Applying liquids (other than the TexWipe wipes / cloths used for cleaning) can cause lasting damage to the module.
• Check with VDI before any measurement connection is attempted beyond those described in this manual or if it may
exceed commonly accepted standards of practice.
Safety and Operational Guidelines
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© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Major Components and Accessories VDI Signal Generator Extension (SGX) Modules and typical accessories are shown. The exact equipment delivered and
especially the input limits (see labels) may vary. Contact VDI with RF input limit or general operational questions before powering-
up any module.
Section Two
SGX
Module
9V DC Power
Supply.
USB Flash
Drive
RF Cable
Included when sold through Keysight Technologies
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Product Views, Block Diagrams and Specifications
Input Drive Label Labeling at the rear of SGX modules
shows the RF inputs for each product.
Adhering to limits protects the module
from damage.
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Front Panel *Voltage Bias Ports (+9V) are for use with external VDI components.
.
SGX – Rear Panel
Module Details — Front and Rear Panel Connections
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Amplitude Modulation
(ON/OFF)
DC Power
Input
RF Input High
Frequency
RF
Attenuation
Voltage Bias
Ports
RF Input Low
Frequency LED
(ON/OFF)
Test Port
with Vertical
E-Field
Polarization
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
These block diagrams represent the typical configurations of a VDI SGX module.
Figure 1: Low Frequency Operation Proper configuration details for Low Frequency operation are shown. A coaxial jumper connection must be used for Low Frequency operation. N1N2 is the multiplication factor this configuration.
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SGX Configurations
Figure 2: High Frequency Operation Proper configuration details for High Frequency operation are shown. Coaxial jumper must be removed for High Frequency operation. N2 is the multiplication factor for this configuration.
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
*Low Power (Part Number: WR15SGX-SE) is available.
†High Power and Standard Power options are available.
Options List:
• External Micrometer Driven Attenuator (~0-30 dB)
• Horn Antenna
• Waveguide Test Port Extensions (1” and 2” available)
• Increased Amplitude Modulation Rate (up to ~300 MHz)
• Voltage Bias Port (on Front Panel) – for external multiplier connections
General Notes:
• VDI SGX modules include a single-volt DC Power Supply.
• Turn-key, sweepable system, includes TTL modulation (ON/OFF up to ~kHz) and User Controlled Attenuation (UCA), 0-5V, both BNC
• Unwanted harmonic content is better than -20dBc typical.
• SGX modules are configured to allow input signals in two bands. Low Frequency Operation: <20 GHz, ~10 dBm, 2.92mm(f). High Frequency Operation:
removal of jumper allows higher frequency input, ~0 dBm, 2.4mm(f).
• Higher frequency input reduces unwanted harmonic signals within the band, and is preferred.
• SGX modules can be driven by any signal generator that supplies the required frequency band and power.
• Stability of the input is degraded by the harmonic factor N and phase noise by 20log(N).
General Specifications Signal Generator Extension Modules
Description Specification Connector
RF Input Low Freq. (Typical / Damage) 10 dBm ± 3dB / 16 dBm 2.92mm (f)
High Freq. (Typical / Damage) 0 dBm ± 3dB / 6 dBm 2.4mm (f)
RF Output VDI Precision Flange Contact VDI for Details UG-387/UM
AC Inputs Single-Volt Power Supply (+9V/4A)
100-240VAC, 3.5A, 50-60Hz
U.S. or E.U.
Amplitude Modulation
TTL / AM Input (ON / OFF) 0 - 5 V, up to ~kHz BNC (f)
RF Attenuation User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) 0V-full power, 5V-off BNC (f).
Voltage Bias Port -- +9V LEMO 00
Operating Temperature
Typical / Recommended 25°C / 20-30°C --
Maximum Weight -- 4.0 Lbs. (1.81 Kg.) --
Dimensions Typical (Length x Width x Height) 8” x 5” x 3” --
Summary of Performance Specifications for Signal Generator Extension Modules
Waveguide Band (GHz) WR15 WR12† WR10 WR9.0 WR8.0 WR6.5 WR5.1
Start Frequency (GHz) 50 60 75 82 90 110 140
Stop Frequency (GHz) 75 90 110 125 140 170 220
Output Power (dBm, typ.) 20 19* 19 16 14 14 9 8 4
Output Power (dBm, min.) 17 16* 15 13 10 10 6 3 0
Waveguide Band (GHz) WR4.3 WR3.4 WM710 (WR2.8)
WM570 (WR2.2)
WM380 (WR1.5)
WM250 (WR1.0)
WM164 (WR0.65)
Start Frequency (GHz) 170 220 260 330 500 750 1100
Stop Frequency (GHz) 260 330 400 500 750 1100 1500
Output Power (dBm, typ.) 2 -2 -6 -10 -21 -23 -25
Output Power (dBm, min.) -3 -6 -12 -16 -27 -33 -
General Specifications and Technical Notes
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RF Drive Labels Follow the RF input listed on
extension module labels to avoid
damage. Values shown here are only
examples.
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
The safety and operational guidelines are listed on page 4. VDI recommends the following general operating procedures for using
these products with optimal performance.
Turn-On Procedure
1) With the RF input power turned ‘OFF’, make all necessary connections (i.e. RF cable, AC cable, DC cable). 2) Set signal generator to desired frequency and appropriate power level. 3) Turn ‘ON’ the RF input power from signal generator.
a. For Amplitude Modulation (ON/OFF): use TTL Mod. port (0-5V, up to ~ kHz) b. For RF Attenuation: use UCA port (0V = no attenuation, 5V = full attenuation).
Turn-Off Procedure 1) Turn ‘OFF’ the RF input power from signal generator.
2) It is now safe to turn ‘OFF’ and/or disconnect all other equipment on user test bench.
Operating Procedures for SGX Modules with Voltage Bias Option
VDI multipliers may be purchased to extend frequency coverage up to 1.1THz. SGX modules are shipped with Voltage Bias Ports on the front panel to allow for external multiplier connections. The following guidelines must be followed when using the additional multipliers with these SGX modules.
• NEVER disconnect Bias Boxes from external multipliers.
• Turn ‘OFF’ RF power and disconnect DC power before connecting/disconnecting an external multiplier from the Voltage
Bias Port on front panel of the SGX (see panel closer-up, Page 6).
• Cover the Voltage Bias Ports on the front panel of the SGX if not in use.
Front / Rear Views of SGX Module with Voltage Bias Ports and External Multipliers (two with attached Bias Boxes)
General Operating Procedures Section Three
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© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Typical Test Port Power plots are provided on the following pages, starting with WR15 SGX and ending with WR1.0 SGX on Page
17. User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) plots are included on Page 18.
Test Port Power for WR15 and WR12 (High Power)
SGX Test Port Power Appendix
One
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0
5
10
15
20
25
30
50 55 60 65 70 75
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR15
Typical
Minimum
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
60 65 70 75 80 85 90
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR12 (High Power)
Typical
Minimum
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Performance — Continued
Test Port Power for WR12 and WR10
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0
5
10
15
20
25
75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR10
Typical
Minimum
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
60 65 70 75 80 85 90
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR12
Typical
Minimum
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Performance — Continued
Test Port Power for WR9.0 and WR8.0
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0
5
10
15
20
25
80 87.5 95 102.5 110 117.5 125
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR9.0
Typical
Minimum
0
5
10
15
20
90 100 110 120 130 140
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR8.0
Typical
Minimum
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Performance — Continued
Test Port Power for WR6.5 and WR5.1
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-5
0
5
10
15
140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR5.1
Typical
Minimum
-5
0
5
10
15
110 120 130 140 150 160 170
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR6.5
Typical
Minimum
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Performance — Continued
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Test Port Power for WR4.3 and WR3.4
-15
-10
-5
0
5
220 230 240 250 260 270 280 290 300 310 320 330
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR3.4
Typical
Minimum
-15
-10
-5
0
5
10
170 185 200 215 230 245 260
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR4.3
Typical
Minimum
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Performance — Continued
Test Port Power for WR2.8 and WR2.2
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-20
-15
-10
-5
0
5
260 280 300 320 340 360 380 400
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR2.8
Typical
Minimum
-30
-25
-20
-15
-10
-5
0
330 340 350 360 370 380 390 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 480 490 500
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR2.2
Typical
Minimum
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Performance — Continued
Test Port Power for WR1.5 and WR1.0
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-40
-30
-20
-10
0
500 525 550 575 600 625 650 675 700 725 750
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR1.5
Typical
Minimum
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
750 800 850 900 950 1000 1050 1100
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WR1.0
Typical
Minimum
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX Performance — Continued
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
1100 1150 1200 1250 1300 1350 1400 1450 1500
Ou
tpu
t (d
Bm
)
Frequency (GHz)
WM164 (1.1 to 1.5 THz)
Typical
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Test Port Power for WR0.65
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
SGX – User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) Performance
Note: The UCA voltage reduces the module’s output power. The data presented in these graphs was measured by VDI under specific test
conditions. These graphs are intended to be used as examples to show a module’s nonlinearity and frequency dependence. The exact shape of
the curves will vary significantly depending on the measurement conditions, including operating temperature, modulation rate, duty cycle,
and load impedance. The performance is also unique to the frequency band and specific serial number of the module. Finally, it should be
noted that for large attenuation values the multipliers can become under-pumped and may generate undesired harmonics at increased levels.
User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) Performance
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0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0 1 2 3 4 5
% o
f M
axim
um
Ou
tpu
t P
ow
er
UCA Voltage (V)
Sample UCA Performance
Lower Band Edge
Center Band
Upper Band Edge
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0 1 2 3 4 5
% o
f M
axim
um
Ou
tpu
t P
ow
er
UCA Voltage (V)
Sample UCA Performance
Lower Band Edge
Center Band Edge
Upper Band Edge
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Cable Loss Characterization Data
Cable Loss Characterization
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
9 14 19 24 29 34 39 44
Cab
le A
tte
nu
ati
on
(d
B)
Frequency (GHz)
Accutest 150 Attenuation Data1.2M
2M
3M
4M
5M
Figure 3: Typical insertion loss of Accutest 150 (RF Cable) with respect to frequency. This chart can be used to estimate cable losses in
your system.
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Appendix Two
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Mechanical Drawing – All SGX Modules
App-3
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Appendix Three
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Virginia Diodes’ Signal Generator Extension (SGX) modules provide high
performance frequency extension of microwave signal generators into the
THz range. VDI SGX modules offer full waveguide band coverage and are
available from WR15 (50-75 GHz) to WR0.65 (1,100-1,500 GHz). Additional
bands are under development. VDI modules combine high test port power
with low phase noise to offer exceptional performance.
The Virginia Diodes staff of engineering and physical science professionals
works to continually improve our products. We also depend upon feedback
from colleagues and customers. Ideas to simplify extension module
operations, improve performance or add capabilities are always welcome. Be
certain that Virginia Diodes has your latest contact details including a phone
number and an email address to receive update advisories.
Contact VDI:
Virginia Diodes, Inc. Web: http://www.vadiodes.com
Email: [email protected] Telephone: 434.297.3257
Addendum — Product Updates and Company Contacts
Addendum
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