UG-PNA.pdf

7/22/2019 UG-PNA.pdf

1/110

2011 Nearfield Systems, Inc.

19730 Magellan Dr., Torrance, CA 90502

Tel: 310-525-7000 Fax: 310-525-7100www.nearfield.com

PNA Microwave Network Analyzer

User Guide

UG-PNA

Author: Bert Schlper

Approved by: Quang Ton

Released by: Bruce Williams

29 November 2011

Revision LogRev. No. Date DCN No. Changes

2/07/07 New Initial Release

A 4/12/07 AI2990 Updated Figures 2-5 and 2-6.

B 7/25/08 AI3431 Added PNA-X and LAN configuration information

C 6/19/09 AI3747 Add troubleshooting & scripting sections, PNA-X Receiver

D 7/20/10 AI4132 Various details

E 11/29/11 AI4829 External sources, receiver multiplier setting, removed older PNAs
http://www.nearfield.com/http://www.nearfield.com/http://www.nearfield.com/


2/110

29 November 2011 UG-PNA Rev. EPNA User Guide

ii

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted above]

The contents of this document are proprietary to Nearfield Systems, Incorporated, and shall notbe disclosed, disseminated, copied, duplicated, translated to another language, or used in anyway other than for purposes authorized by contract or o therwise expressly authorized in writing.

Products manufactured by NSI may be covered by one or more of the following U.S. PatentsNumbers: [5,408,318] [5,419,631] [5,838,430] [5,881,470] and other pending patents.

WARNINGS! and/or CAUTIONS: may be used throughout th is document. They are

there to warn you of potential hazards or potentially damaging actions. Please read and

follow each one carefully.

This document has an electronic master, which resides in the Document Control System (DCS).


3/110


iiiS:\DCS\Documents\UG-PNA.doc

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]

Table of Contents

1 PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................ 11.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 11.2 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS ................................................................................................ 11.3 DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................... 11.4 HARDWARE CONFIGURATIONS ......................................................................................... 2

1.4.1 PNA family of network analyzers................................................................................ 21.4.2 PNA configurations..................................................................................................... 21.4.3 PNA Options ............................................................................................................... 31.4.4 NSI2000 controller configurations ............................................................................. 4

1.5 PNAOPERATION ISSUES .................................................................................................. 42 PNA HARDWARE CONFIGURATIONS ....................................................................... 5

2.1 PNASTANDALONE CONFIGURATION................................................................................ 52.1.1 Description.................................................................................................................. 52.1.2 Hardware setup........................................................................................................... 52.1.3 Operation.................................................................................................................... 62.1.4 Power levels................................................................................................................ 6

2.2 PNASTANDALONE WITH AMPLIFIER................................................................................ 72.2.1 Description.................................................................................................................. 72.2.2 Hardware setup........................................................................................................... 7

2.3 OPERATION ...................................................................................................................... 82.3.1 Power levels................................................................................................................ 8

2.4 PNASTANDALONE WITH MULTIPLIER.............................................................................. 92.4.1 Description.................................................................................................................. 92.4.2 Hardware setup........................................................................................................... 92.4.3 Operation.................................................................................................................. 102.4.4 Power levels.............................................................................................................. 10

2.5 PNAWITH ONE EXTERNAL SOURCE ............................................................................... 112.5.1 Description................................................................................................................ 112.5.2 Hardware setup......................................................................................................... 112.5.3 Operation.................................................................................................................. 122.5.4 Power levels.............................................................................................................. 12

2.6 PNAWITH ONE EXTERNAL SOURCE AND FREQUENCY CONVERTER................................ 132.6.1 Description................................................................................................................ 132.6.2 Hardware setup......................................................................................................... 132.6.3 Operation.................................................................................................................. 142.6.4 Power levels.............................................................................................................. 15

2.7 PNAWITH TWO EXTERNAL SOURCES AND FREQUENCY CONVERTER.............................. 162.7.1 Description................................................................................................................ 162.7.2 Hardware setup......................................................................................................... 162.7.3 Operation.................................................................................................................. 182.7.4 Operation with manually controlled sources............................................................ 182.7.5 Power levels.............................................................................................................. 19

2.8 PNAWITH INTERNAL LOSOURCE AND FREQUENCY CONVERTER.................................. 202.8.1 Description................................................................................................................ 202.8.2 Hardware setup......................................................................................................... 20


4/110


ivS:\DCS\Documents\UG-PNA.doc

PROPRIETARY


2.9 OPERATION .................................................................................................................... 222.10 MM-WAVE CONFIGURATION WITH AGILENTN526XAAND OMLMODULES .................. 23

2.10.1 Description............................................................................................................ 232.10.2 Hardware setup..................................................................................................... 232.10.3 Operation .............................................................................................................. 24

2.11 PNA-XRECEIVER CONFIGURATIONS.............................................................................. 272.11.1 Description............................................................................................................ 272.11.2 Hardware setup..................................................................................................... 272.11.3 Operation .............................................................................................................. 292.11.4 Power levels.......................................................................................................... 29

3 CONTROLLER CONFIGURATIONS .......................................................................... 303.1 SERIES AVS.B............................................................................................................... 303.2 PNATRIGGER INTERFACE ............................................................................................. 313.3 CONTROLLING A REMOTE DEVICE OVER GPIB............................................................... 313.4 SERIES-ACONFIGURATION ............................................................................................ 32

3.4.1 PNA control interface ............................................................................................... 323.4.2 Software setup........................................................................................................... 333.4.3 V35 Controller Trigger setup ................................................................................... 343.4.4 Dialogs...................................................................................................................... 353.4.5 Control wiring drawing ............................................................................................ 433.4.6 Switch control ........................................................................................................... 45

3.5 SERIES-BCONFIGURATION............................................................................................. 463.5.1 PNA control interface ............................................................................................... 463.5.2 Software setup........................................................................................................... 463.5.3 NSI System Configurator utility................................................................................ 473.5.4 Controller configuration dialogs.............................................................................. 473.5.5 PNA receiver dialogs................................................................................................ 483.5.6 PNA Source dialogs .................................................................................................. 513.5.7 External source dialogs ............................................................................................ 533.5.8 Control wiring drawing ............................................................................................ 553.5.9 Triggering the RF devices......................................................................................... 583.5.10 Switch control ....................................................................................................... 60

4 SCRIPT COMMANDS FOR PNA CONTROL............................................................. 614.1 SERIES ACONFIGURATION ............................................................................................. 614.2 SERIES BCONFIGURATION ............................................................................................. 65

5 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE........................................................................................... 67APPENDIX A SERIES-A INITIALIZATION FILE EXAMPLES................................. 68APPENDIX B SERIES-B INITIALIZATION FILE EXAMPLES..................................... 70

B.1 PNASTANDALONE ........................................................................................................ 70B.2 PNASTANDALONE WITH AMPLIFIER.............................................................................. 73B.3 PNASTANDALONE WITH MULTIPLIER............................................................................ 73B.4 PNAWITH ONE EXTERNAL SOURCE,NO FREQUENCY CONVERTER................................. 73B.5 PNAWITH ONE EXTERNAL PSGSOURCE AND FREQUENCY CONVERTER........................ 76B.6 PNAWITH TWO EXTERNAL PSGSOURCES AND FREQUENCY CONVERTER...................... 78


5/110


vS:\DCS\Documents\UG-PNA.doc

PROPRIETARY


B.7 PNAWITH INTERNAL LOSOURCE AND FREQUENCY CONVERTER.................................. 80B.8 MM-WAVE CONFIGURATION WITH AGILENTN5260AAND OMLMODULES .................. 81

APPENDIX C PNA DCOM/LAN CONFIGURATION ................................................... 82C.1 REFERENCE AND DISCLAIMER....................................................................................... 82C.2 HARDWARE CONFIGURATION ........................................................................................ 82C.3 SOFTWARE CONFIGURATION.......................................................................................... 82

C.3.1 NSI2000 Software Installation.............................................................................. 82C.3.2 Configure NSI2000 workstation Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) .......................... 83C.3.3 Configure PNA Network Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) ...................................... 85

C.4 NSI2000WORKSTATION AND PNANETWORK CONNECTION TEST ............................... 85C.5 PNAPROXY INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION ....................................................... 87C.6 DCOMPERMISSIONS AND ACCESS CONFIGURATION .................................................... 88C.7 DCOMCOMPONENT SERVICES SETTINGS .................................................................. 91C.8 PNAAUTHENTICATION TEST PROGRAM ......................................................................... 92C.9 NSI2000SETUP ............................................................................................................. 95

APPENDIX D DCOM CONNECTION TROUBLESHOOTING................................... 96APPENDIX E EXTERNAL SOURCE CONFIGURATION............................................... 99

E.1 HARDWARE CONNECTIONS FOR EXTERNAL SOURCES ..................................................... 99E.2 CONFIGURING THE SOURCE ON THE PNA....................................................................... 99E.3 PNAWARNINGS........................................................................................................... 102E.4 CONFIGURING THE EXTERNAL SOURCE (AGILENT MXG)............................................ 103E.5 CONFIGURING THE EXTERNAL SOURCE (AGILENT PSG).............................................. 103

FiguresFigure 2-1 Wiring, PNA standalone ......................................................................................................................5Figure 2-2 Wiring, PNA and amplifier .................................................................................................................7Figure 2-3 Wiring, PNA and multiplier................................................................................................................9Figure 2-4 Wiring, PNA and PSG .......................................................................................................................11Figure 2-5 Wiring, PNA with PSG and Frequency Converter .........................................................................14Figure 2-6 Wiring, PNA with 2 PSGs and Frequency Converter.....................................................................17Figure 2-7 Wiring, PNA with internal LO Source and Frequency Converter ................................................21Figure 2-8 Wiring, mm-wave configuration with OML heads .........................................................................24Figure 2-9 Wiring, mm-wave configuration with OML heads and 2 PSGs.....................................................25Figure 2-10 Wiring, PNA-X Receiverconfiguration with MXG sources ..........................................................28Figure 3-1 PNA Trigger/Ready cable pinouts ....................................................................................................31Figure 3-2 Remote GPIB control with GPIB-140A extenders ..........................................................................32Figure 3-3 Remote GPIB control with GPIB-ENET/100 Ethernet-to-GPIB Controller................................32Figure 3-4 Series-A controller, RF subsystem, Control tab..............................................................................34Figure 3-5 V3.5 Configure Dialog for CIO.........................................................................................................34Figure 3-6

V3.5 Configure Dialog for DSP Interface ........................................................................................35

Figure 3-7 Series-A controller, RF subsystem, Configure tab ..........................................................................36Figure 3-8 Series-A PNA driver, Control tab.....................................................................................................37Figure 3-9 IF Bandwidth selection ......................................................................................................................39Figure 3-10 User-defined parameter selection .....................................................................................................39Figure 3-11 Series-A PNA driver, Receiver Setup tab.........................................................................................40Figure 3-12 Series-A PNA driver, Source Setup tab............................................................................................42Figure 3-13 Series-A control diagram (CIO-DIO Trigger).................................................................................43Figure 3-14 CIO-DIO to Trig and Stop Sweep cable (200202) pinouts .............................................................44Figure 3-15 Series-A control diagram (DSP Trigger)..........................................................................................45


6/110


viS:\DCS\Documents\UG-PNA.doc

PROPRIETARY


Figure 3-16 Series-B controller configuration dialog ..........................................................................................47Figure 3-17 Series-B PNA receiver Control dialog ..............................................................................................48Figure 3-18 Series-B PNA receiver Setup dialog..................................................................................................49Figure 3-19 Series-B PNA receiver Pulse Mode dialog........................................................................................50Figure 3-20 Series-B PNA receiver Information dialog.......................................................................................50Figure 3-21 Series-B PNA Source Control dialog ................................................................................................51Figure 3-22 Series-B PNA Source Setup dialog....................................................................................................52Figure 3-23 Series-B PNA source Information dialog .........................................................................................53Figure 3-24 Series-B PSG Source Control Dialog................................................................................................54Figure 3-25 Series-B PSG Source Setup Dialog ...................................................................................................55Figure 3-26 Series-B control diagram, using NSIMotion controller ..................................................................56Figure 3-27 Series-B control diagram, using MEI controller .............................................................................57Figure 3-28 Series-B control diagram, using GPIB controller ...........................................................................58Figure 3-29 SBC to Dual Source cable (630502) pinouts.....................................................................................59Figure 3-30 SBC Trigger Connections ..................................................................................................................60Figure 4-1 Object browser showing source properties......................................................................................66Figure 4-2 Object browser showing PNA receiver properties ..........................................................................66Figure C-1 NSI2000 workstation and PNA interconnection..............................................................................82Figure C-2 Network Connections Page................................................................................................................83Figure C-3 Network connection status: cable unplugged ..................................................................................83Figure C-4 NSI2000 Local Area Connection Properties ....................................................................................84Figure C-5

NSI2000 Workstation TCP/IP Address Setting...............................................................................84

Figure C-6 PNA TCP/IP Address Settings ..........................................................................................................85Figure C-7 "Run" command panel ......................................................................................................................86Figure C-8 Command line Ping test .................................................................................................................86Figure C-9 "My Network Places" showing PNA's computer name..................................................................87Figure C-10 Removing previous PNAProxy .........................................................................................................88Figure C-11 "dcomcnfg" prompt...........................................................................................................................88Figure C-12 "My Computer" Component Services .............................................................................................89Figure C-13 COM Security Setting........................................................................................................................89Figure C-14 Access Permission Setting..................................................................................................................90Figure C-15 Launch Permission Setting................................................................................................................90Figure C-16 Agilent PNA Series DCOM Properties Access ................................................................................91Figure C-17 Agilent PNA Series Properties - Location Tab ................................................................................92Figure C-18

Windows Firewall turned off.............................................................................................................92

Figure C-19 "PNAAuthentication" Test Program ...............................................................................................93Figure C-20 Success Connection Test ................................................................................................................94Figure C-21 "Error" Detected During Connection Test......................................................................................94Figure D-1 "Run" command panel ......................................................................................................................97Figure D-2 GUID Value Assigned to NSI2000.exe AppID.................................................................................97Figure D-3 GUID Value Assigned to NSI2000.exe..............................................................................................98Figure E-1 Configure External Sources ............................................................................................................100Figure E-2 RF source configuration ..................................................................................................................100Figure E-3 RF Source Properties .......................................................................................................................101Figure E-4 LO source configuration..................................................................................................................101Figure E-5 Saving configuration as User Preset ............................................................................................102Figure E-6 Source frequency warning on PNA-X ............................................................................................103Figure E-7

MXG Configuration.........................................................................................................................103

TablesTable 1-1 Abbreviations........................................................................................................................................1Table 1-2 PNA configuration comparison...........................................................................................................3Table 1-3 Speed comparison.................................................................................................................................3Table 2-1 Settings for standalone PNA configuration........................................................................................6Table 2-2 Settings for PNA + amplifier configuration .......................................................................................8Table 2-3 Settings for PNA and multiplier configuration................................................................................10Table 2-4 Settings for PNA + PSG configuration.............................................................................................12


7/110

29 November 2011 PNA User Guide UG-PNA Rev. E

viiS:\DCS\Documents\UG-PNA.doc

PROPRIETARY


Table 2-5 Settings for PNA + PSG + Frequency Converter configuration ....................................................15Table 2-6 Settings for PNA + 2 PSGs + Frequency Converter configuration................................................18Table 2-7 Specifications for NSI-RF-5939 amplifier........................................................................................21Table 2-8 Settings for PNA with Internal LO Source + Frequency Converter configuration .....................22Table 2-9 Settings for PNA + N5260A + OML heads configuration ..............................................................25Table 2-10 Settings for PNA + N5260A + 2 PSGs + OML heads configuration ..............................................26Table 2-11 Settings for PNA-X receiver+ DFC + 2 sources configuration......................................................29Table 3-1 Series A/B capability comparison .....................................................................................................30Table 3-2 Controller.ini settings (Series-A).......................................................................................................33Table 3-3 NscPnaX.ini settings (Series-A).........................................................................................................33Table 3-4 RF subsystem Control Dialog............................................................................................................35Table 3-5 Series-A Frequency Control dialog items.........................................................................................37Table 3-6 Series-A Receiver Setup dialog fields ...............................................................................................40Table 3-7 Series-A Source Setup dialog items ..................................................................................................42Table 3-8 Parts list for Series-A control diagram (CIO-DIO Trigger)...........................................................44Table 3-9 Parts list for Series-A control diagram (DSP Trigger) ...................................................................45Table 3-10 Example [RF system] section in NSIMeas.ini ..................................................................................46Table 3-11 Series-B PNA Receiver Control Dialog ............................................................................................48Table 3-12 Series-B PNA Receiver Setup Dialog................................................................................................49Table 3-13 Series-B PNA Source Control Dialog ...............................................................................................51Table 3-14 Series-B PNA Source Setup Dialog...................................................................................................52Table 3-15 Series-B PSG Source Control Dialog................................................................................................54Table 3-16 Series-B PSG Source Setup Dialog ...................................................................................................55Table 3-17 Parts list for Series-B control with NSIMotion controller..............................................................56Table 3-18 Parts list for Series-B control with DSP controller .........................................................................57Table 3-19 Parts list for Series-B control with GPIB controller .......................................................................58Table 3-20 Trigger connections between SBC and RF hardware.....................................................................59Table 4-1 PNA control methods .........................................................................................................................61Table 4-2 PNA control properties (Series A) ....................................................................................................62Table 5-1 Troubleshooting..................................................................................................................................96Table 5-2 Configuration settings for PNA with external sources ...................................................................99


8/110


1

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Definitions

1 Purpose

1.1 Introduction

This User Guide describes the operation of the Agilent PNA family of network analyzers whencontrolled by the NSI2000 Antenna Measurement Software. It describes the supportedconfigurations and provides block diagrams, software setup instructions and operational notesfor each one.

For information on the E836x PNA models, refer to NSI Document UG-PNA E-Series.

1.2 Applicable documents

Agilent documentation on PNA Vector Network Analyzer,

NSI2000 Operating Manual, Near-field Edition, NSI Doc. SOM-NSI2000-V4,

NSI AMS Operating Manual, Far-field Edition, NSI Doc. SOM-NSI-FF-V4,

PNA Pulse Mode User Guide, NSI Doc. UG-PNA-Pulse,

RF Switch Configuration for NSI2000, NSI Doc. UG-RF SW2000.

1.3 Definitions

The following abbreviations are used in this document:

Table 1-1 Abbreviations

ARC Antenna Range Controller

AUT Antenna Under Test

CW Continuous-wave, or non-pulsed signal

DCOM Distributed Component Object Model

DFC NSI Distributed Frequency Converter

DSP Digital Signal Processor

FIFO First In First Out

GUID Globally Unique Identifier

IFBW Intermediate Frequency Bandwidth

LAN Local Area Network

LO Local Oscillator

MEI Motion Engineering, Inc.

Mm-wave millimeter-wave

OML OML, Inc. (formerly Oleson Microwave Labs)

PNA Agilent Network Analyzer

PSG Agilent E82xx-series Signal Generator

RF Radio Frequency


9/110


2

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Hardware configuration

Rx Receive

SBC NSI Standard Beam Controller

SCU Switch Control Unit

SNR Signal-to-Noise Ratio

TTL Transistor-Transistor Logic

Tx Transmit

In this document, formatting is used to distinguish between the PNA in general and specificmembers of the PNA family. PNA without special formatting refers to a generic PNA. When

we need to identify a specific PNA family member, we use PNA for the E836x models, PNA-X

for the N524x, and so on.

1.4 Hardware configurations

1.4.1 PNA family of network analyzers

The Agilent PNA family of network analyzers that are supported by NSI2000 consists of the

following members:

1) N5230C PNA-L(for N5230A, refer to UG-PNA E-Series)

2) E836x PNA (not discussed in this document, refer to UG-PNA E-Series)

3) N522x PNA

4) N524x PNA-X

5) N5264 PNA-X Receiver

6) Discontinued RF PNAmodels including the E835x (2 ports, 4 receivers), E880x (2

ports, 3 receivers) and N338x (3 ports, 4 receivers) (not discussed in this document,refer to UG-PNA E-Series)

For each of the configurations described below, information is provided on the PNA models thatsupport it and options that are required.

1.4.2 PNA configurations

The PNA supports a variety of different configurations. Setups that NSI2000 supports are:

1) PNA standalone configuration

2) PNA standalone with amplifier

3) PNA standalone with multiplier

4) PNA with one external source

5) PNA with one external source and frequency converter

6) PNA with two external sources and frequency converter

7) PNA with internal LO source and frequency converter


10/110


3

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Hardware configuration

8) Millimeter-wave configuration with Agilent N5260A millimeter-wave test set controllerand OML modules

These configurations are described in section 2. The table below offers a comparison of thevarious configurations.

Table 1-2 PNA configuration comparison

Configuration Speed Dynamic Range Cost Most suitable for

PNA standalone High Low to High Low Small systems

PNA with amplifier High Medium to High Low Small to medium systems

PNA with multiplier High Medium to High Low Small high-frequencysystems

PNA with external source Low Medium to High Medium Small far-field systems

PNA with external source andfrequency converter

Low High Medium-high

Far-field systems, largenear-field systems

PNA with 2 external sourcesand frequency converter

Low High High Large systems withremote control room

PNA with internal LO sourceand frequency converter(including mm-wave systems)

High High High Medium to large systems

The measurement speed of the various PNA configurations depends on the type of PNA, theexternal source (if used) and the mode of operation of the PNA. See the table below.

Table 1-3 Speed comparison

Configuration Frequency switching

time (typical)

Retrace time (typical)

PNA and PNA-X standalone, or with

multiplier or frequency converter

0.2 ms Up to 30 ms (no FIFO)0.5 ms (using FIFO buffer)

PNA-X Receiver Depends on source Up to 100 ms (no FIFO)0.5 ms (using FIFO buffer)

8360-series source 6 8 ms 6 8 ms

PSG source 6 8 ms 6 8 ms

MXG source 5 ms 5 ms

MXG source (option UNZ) 1 ms 1 ms

1.4.3 PNA Options

A large number of options is available for the PNA. These can be divided into 3 categories:

1. Options required for certain configurations. These are noted for each configurationpresented in Section 2.


11/110


4

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA operation issues

2. Options that enhance performance or provide a wider range of capabilities underNSI2000. These include:

a. Configurable Test Set (standard on PNA-X)

b. Extended Power Range

c. Fast-CW Mode

d. Pulse ModeThe controller configuration (see Section 3) may affect whether such options aresupported or not.

3. Options that provide capabilities outside of NSI2000. These are not accessible fromNSI2000. Examples are:

a. Time Domain

b. Receiver Attenuators

c. 4 Ports (but see Table 3-7on how to use the PNAs 2ndsource as LO source)

1.4.4 NSI2000 controller configurations

The NSI2000 software supports two distinct hardware solutions for controlling the PNA:

1) The NSI V35 controller is the beam controller. This configuration is called Series-A.

2) The NSI Standard Beam Controller is the beam controller. This configuration is calledSeries-B.

Instructions for setting up the Series-A and Series-B controller configurations are provided insection 3.

1.5 PNA operation issues

When NSI2000 starts, it presets the PNA. While NSI2000 has control over the PNA, do not pressthe Local button on the PNA to use the front panel. You can, however, use the mouse on thePNA to view menus. Any changes you make on the PNA may cause errors in NSI2000 or affectthe data being measured. Likewise, touching the screen on PNAs equipped with a touch-screencan cause errors.


12/110


5

2 PNA Hardware Configurations

2.1 PNA standalone configuration

2.1.1 Description

The RF hardware for the standalone configuration consists of just the PNA and RF cablesconnecting to the transmitting and receiving antennas. This configuration can be used for anyPNA model. This configuration offers high dynamic range if the RF cables are short and thetransmit loss between the probe and AUT is low.

2.1.2 Hardware setup

Connect the transmitting antenna to Port 1. Connect the receiving antenna to Port 2. If the PNA

is equipped with a configurable test set (option xx5 on PNA-L, option 201 on N522x PNA ,

standard on PNA-X), connect the receiving antenna to the B Input for an improvement in

dynamic range of 10 dB to 15 dB.

Other than the recommended configurable test set option, there are no options required for thePNA.

Figure 2-1 Wiring, PNA standalone

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA standalone configuration


13/110


6

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA standalone with amplifier

2.1.3 Operation

Operational settings for this configuration are as follows:

Table 2-1 Settings for standalone PNA configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PNA built-in source)Power As desired

Harmonic 1

Offset 0

LO Source (Not applicable)

Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch Normal

Frequency Offset N/A

Measurement Ratio S21 (= B/R1)

2.1.4 Power levels

The front-panel PNA receiver inputs A, B, R1 and R2 typically have maximum input levels thatare lower than the maximum source port output level. The levels are different for the variousPNA family members; see the PNA Help or specification sheets for detailed information.

Typically, the insertion loss between the Port1 output and the B receiver input should be at least15 dB to prevent receiver overload. The PNA does not provide a warning when the input level istoo high. An easy way to check for overload is to reduce the source power by 10 dB and

verifying that the ratioed amplitude does not change by more than 0.1 dB.


14/110


7

2.2 PNA standalone with amplifier

2.2.1 Description

This configuration is a similar to the standalone configuration, except that an RF amplifier anddirectional coupler are added. The amplifier provides higher RF power. To maximize the system

dynamic range, the amplifier should be located close to the transmit antenna. A directionalcoupler takes a sample of the transmitted signal back to the PNA, so that any drift in theamplifier is removed from the ratioed measurement.

This configuration does not affect the speed of the PNA.


The wiring diagram is shown in Figure 2-2. This configuration requires a PNA equipped with a

configurable test set (option xx5 on PNA-L, option 201 on N522x PNA , standard on PNA-X)

to allow access to the reference receiver input. Instead of using the A receiver input, the R1input may also be used.

Figure 2-2 Wiring, PNA and amplifier

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Operation


15/110


8

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA standalone with multiplier

2.3 Operation


Table 2-2 Settings for PNA + amplifier configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PNA built-in source)

Power As desired

Harmonic 1

Offset 0


Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch Normal

Frequency Offset N/A

Measurement Ratio If using R1 input: S21 (= B/R1)If using A input: B/A

Reference Path If using R1, set to External

2.3.1 Power levels

The front-panel PNA receiver inputs A, B, R1 and R2 typically have maximum input levels thatare lower than the power level at the coupled port of the directional coupler. An attenuatorshould be used to reduce the reference level. If the transmission loss and cable losses are small,an attenuator may also be required in the test signal path.

The PNA does not provide a warning when the input level is too high. An easy way to check foroverload is to reduce the source power by 10 dB and verifying that the ratioed amplitude doesnot change by more than 0.1 dB. If the amplifier is saturated, reduce the source power until theamplifier is in its linear region.

See the PNA Help or specification sheets for detailed information on maximum input levels.


16/110


9

2.4 PNA standalone with multiplier

2.4.1 Description

This configuration is useful for higher-frequency applications (up to 67 GHz) where the cableloss between the PNA and the transmitting antenna must be minimized. By using a multiplier

close to the transmitting antenna, the PNA source frequency is limited to the RF frequencydivided by the multiplication factor. This allows using a cable with much lower loss. In addition,if an active multiplier is used, the available transmit power can be much higher than the PNAoutput power. The cable between the receiving antenna and PNA should be kept as short aspossible.


The wiring diagram is shown in Figure 2-2. This configuration requires a PNA equipped with

a configurable test set (option xx5 on PNA-L, option 201 on N522x PNA , standard on

PNA-X) to allow access to the reference receiver input, and

frequency offset mode (option 080) because the PNA will receive at a differentfrequency than it is transmitting.

In this configuration, the PNA must support the highest measurement frequency, even though thePNA source frequency is limited. For example, if the multiplier is a frequency doubler with anoutput frequency range of 20 GHz to 40 GHz, a 40 GHz (or higher) PNA is required.

Figure 2-3 Wiring, PNA and multiplier

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA standalone with multiplier


17/110


10

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA with one external source

2.4.3 Operation


Table 2-3 Settings for PNA and multiplier configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PNA built-in source)

Power As required for the multiplier inputpower to be in the specification range

Harmonic Multipliers multiplication factor

Offset 0


Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch Normal

Frequency Offset Enabled

Offset 0

Multiplier 1

Divisor 1



2.4.4 Power levels

The multiplier output power is usually at a fixed level and cannot be controlled by varying themultiplier input power. Use attenuators to adjust the power levels.


See the PNA Help or specification sheets for detailed information.


18/110


11

2.5 PNA with one external source

2.5.1 Description

This configuration is suitable for applications where the receiving antenna and the PNA are closetogether, but the transmit antenna is located some distance away and cable losses need to be

minimized. One example is an indoor far-field antenna range. The external source can be eitheran Agilent 8360-series source or an Agilent PSG. A disadvantage of this setup is that thefrequency switching speed is limited by the external source; its typical switching speed is 6 ms to8 ms. A reference signal is required for ratioed measurements.


The following assumes that the external source is an Agilent PSG. Connect the transmittingantenna to the RF output of the PSG, and connect the receiving antenna to the B Input of thePNA. Connect the reference signal to either the R1 or the A Input. The 10 MHz reference of thePSG and PNA must be tied together, i.e. either the PNA uses the external reference of the PSG,or vice versa.

This configuration requires a PNA equipped with


PNA-X) to allow access to the reference receiver input.

Figure 2-4 Wiring, PNA and PSG

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA with one external source


19/110


12

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA with one external source and frequency converter

2.5.3 Operation


Table 2-4 Settings for PNA + PSG configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PSG)Power As desired

Harmonic 1

Offset 0


Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch Normal

Frequency Offset Disabled



2.5.4 Power levels


The PNA does not provide a warning when the input level is too high. An easy way to check foroverload is to reduce the RF source power by 10 dB and verifying that the ratioed amplitudedoes not change by more than 0.1 dB.

See the PNA Help or specification sheets for more detailed information.


20/110


13

PROPRIETARY


2.6 PNA with one external source and frequency converter

2.6.1 Description

This configuration is intended for applications where PNA is some distance away from both thetransmitting and receiving antennas. One example is an outdoor far-field antenna range. The

internal source of the PNA provides the LO signal for the frequency converter. The PNAreceivers are set to the IF frequency, usually 20 MHz. If the PNA is properly equipped, the IFsignals can be fed into the rear-panel IF inputs of the PNA, bypassing the PNA front endreceivers. The external source can be an Agilent 8360-series source, an Agilent PSG or anAgilent MXG (Series A controller only). A manually controlled source may be used for single-frequency measurements. The frequency switching speed of this configuration is limited by theexternal source.

An advantage of this configuration is that the upper frequency limit can be extended above thePNA frequency range by using an external multiplier and mixers suitable for the higherfrequency. For example, using an external x6 multiplier and WR10 waveguide mixers allows thesystem to work up to 110 GHz using a 20 GHz PNA.


The following assumes that the external source is an Agilent PSG. Connect the transmittingantenna to the RF output of the PSG, and connect the receiving antenna to the test mixer RFinput. The reference signal may either be obtained using a directional coupler or a referenceantenna. Connect the reference signal to the reference mixer RF input. Connect the PNA sourceoutput (Port 1) to the LO input of the frequency converter. Connect the test and reference IFcables to the front panel B and A inputs, or use the rear-panel inputs. The 10 MHz reference ofthe PSG and PNA must be tied together, i.e. either the PNA uses the external reference of thePSG, or vice versa.

This configuration requires a PNA equipped with


PNA-X) to allow access to the reference receiver input, and

frequency offset mode (option 080) because the PNA will receive at a differentfrequency than it is transmitting.

For a PNA-X with external RF source, only the rear-panel LO output can be used as the LOsource, not the front-panel output. The IF can be set to the internal IF of the PNA and go into therear-panel IF ports (requires option 020) or be set to a higher value (>10 MHz) and go into thefront panel receiver inputs.


21/110


14

Figure 2-5 Wiring, PNA with PSG and Frequency Converter

2.6.3 Operation


PROPRIETARY



22/110


15

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA with two external sources and frequency converter

Table 2-5 Settings for PNA + PSG + Frequency Converter configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PSG)

Power As desired

Harmonic 1 (or nif using xnmultiplier)

Offset 0

LO Source (PNA)

Power 5 dBm (depending on frequencyconverter)

Harmonic 1 for fundamental mixing,3 for 3

rdharmonic mixing.

Higher for mm-wave mixers

Offset 20 MHz for front-panel inputs on PNA, orfor rear-panel IF inputs:

DSP v4: 7.605634 MHz * (1 N)/N,DSP v5

1: 7.438017 MHz * (1 N)/N,

where N is the LO harmonic number.

NSI2000 provides a checkbox to calculatethe offset automatically

Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch Internal (if using front-panel RF inputs)External (if using rear-panel IF inputs)


Offset 20 MHz if using 20 MHz IF, orany value if using rear-panel IF inputs(since receivers are not used)

Multiplier 0

Divisor 1

Measurement Ratio B/A

2.6.4 Power levels

The power level at the RF input to the mixers should be kept below the maximum input level ofthe mixers. The IF level should be kept below the maximum input level of the PNA.

Check the PNA documentation for maximum input levels of the front-panel inputs. If the PNAhas option 020, the rear-panel IF inputs may be used. These have a maximum input level for0.1 dB compression of -10 dBm. The damage level is +20 dBm. The damage level is far abovethe maximum output of the LO/IF unit, so under normal conditions the rear-panel IF inputscannot be damaged.

1See page 40 for note on PNA IF frequencies


23/110


16

PROPRIETARY


2.7 PNA with two external sources and frequency converter

2.7.1 Description

This configuration is intended for applications where the PNA is located far away from both thetransmitting and receiving antennas. One example is an outdoor far-field antenna range with a

remotely located control room. The PNA is operated in CW mode, with both source andreceivers set to the IF frequency, usually 20 MHz. The frequency switching speed of thisconfiguration is limited by the external sources.

As with the previous configuration, this setup allows extending the upper frequency above thePNA frequency range by using an external multiplier and mixers suitable for the higherfrequency. For example, using an external x6 multiplier and WR10 waveguide mixers allows thesystem to work up to 110 GHz using a 20 GHz PNA.

The external sources can be Agilent 8360-series sources, Agilent PSGs, Agilent MXGs ormanually controlled sources, in any combination. The frequency switching speed of thisconfiguration is limited by the external sources. A configuration using manual sources is limitedto single-frequency operation.


The following assumes that the external sources are Agilent PSGs. Connect the transmittingantenna to the RF output of the RF PSG, and connect the receiving antenna to the test mixer RFinput. The reference signal may either be obtained using a directional coupler or a referenceantenna. Connect the reference signal to the reference mixer RF input. Connect the LO PSGsource output to the LO input of the frequency converter. Connect the test and reference IFcables to the front panel B and A inputs, or use the rear-panel B and A. The 10 MHz reference ofboth PSG sources and the PNA must be tied together. The IF frequency is usually 20 MHz butcan be the PNA internal IF frequency if using the rear-panel IF inputs, or any frequency above

10 MHz if using the front-panel inputs.

The PNA needs to have a configurable set (option xx5 on PNA-L , option 201 on N522x PNA ,

standard on PNA-X), to allow access to the reference receiver input.


24/110


17

Figure 2-6 Wiring, PNA with 2 PSGs and Frequency Converter

PROPRIETARY



25/110


18

PROPRIETARY


2.7.3 Operation


Table 2-6 Settings for PNA + 2 PSGs + Frequency Converter configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PSG)

Power As desired


Offset 0

LO Source (PSG)

Power 0 dBm to 5 dBm (depending on frequencyconverter)

Harmonic 1 for fundamental mixing3 for 3

rdharmonic mixing


Offset 20 MHz for front-panel inputs on PNA, orfor rear-panel IF inputs (requires option020):

DSP v4: 7.605634 MHz * (1 N)/N,DSP v5

2: 7.438017 MHz * (1 N)/N,

where N is the LO harmonic number.

NSI2000 provides a checkbox to calculatethe offset automatically

Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch Internal (if using front-panel RF inputs)Normal (if using rear-panel IF inputs)


Measurement Ratio B/A

2.7.4 Operation with manually controlled sources

If the sources are manually controlled (single-frequency operation only), then it is important thatthe relation between the RF frequency and the PNA frequency is known to NSI2000. Anexample of such a configuration is a mm-wave setup where the sources are set manually and the

PNA receives a fixed IF frequency. If the frequency entered in NSI2000 is the IF frequency, theneven though the PNA frequency is correct, the Auto Scan Setup and will be based on the IFfrequency instead of the RF frequency, and any data processing will be using the wrongfrequency.



26/110


19

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA with internal LO source and frequency converter

The way the IF frequency for the PNA is defined depends on the system configuration. In Series-A (see section 3), the receiver frequency is set using the source offset (see equation for Series-Amenus in Table 3-7). In Series-B, if the PNA has frequency offset (option 080), then the PNAfrequency is determined by the offset. If the PNA does not have option 080 then the Offset fieldis not available and the offset value must be defined inNSIPNA.ini.

2.7.5 Power levels

The power level at the RF input to the mixers should be kept below the maximum input level ofthe mixers. The IF level should be kept below the maximum input level of the PNA.

Check the PNA documentation for maximum input levels of the front-panel inputs. If the PNAhas option 020, the rear-panel IF inputs may be used. These have a maximum input level for0.1 dB compression of -10 dBm. The damage level is +20 dBm. The damage level is far abovethe maximum output of the LO/IF unit, so under normal conditions the rear-panel IF inputscannot be damaged.


27/110


20

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA with internal LO source and frequency converter

2.8 PNA with internal LO source and frequency converter

2.8.1 Description

This configuration is intended for applications where the PNA is located fairly close to both thetransmitting and receiving antennas. It has been used for planar near-field scanners of up to 12 m

x 6 m (40 ft x 20 ft). The PNAs internal RF and LO sources are used in this configuration, so noexternal sources are required. The advantage of this setup is that frequency switching speed isnot restricted by external sources.

As with the previous configurations, this setup allows extending the upper frequency above thePNA frequency range by using an external multiplier and mixers suitable for the higherfrequency. For example, using an external x6 multiplier and WR10 waveguide mixers allows thesystem to work up to 110 GHz using a 20 GHz PNA.

Below the minimum frequency of the mixers (typ. 1 GHz), this configuration cannot be usedunless a low-frequency mixer is used. Alternatively, all active components may be bypassed andthe PNA used in standalone configuration. Because of the low cable loss at low frequencies,operating in this mode should provide adequate performance even on very large systems.


Required options for a PNA and PNA-Xare:

200, 2-port model

080, frequency offset

020, IF access.

This configuration is not supported for a PNA-L.

Connect the transmitting antenna to the RF output of the PNA, and connect the receiving antennato the test mixer RF input. The reference signal may either be obtained using a directionalcoupler or a reference antenna. Connect the reference signal to the reference mixer RF input.Connect the rear-panel LO output of the PNA to the LO input of the frequency converter.Usually an amplifier must be placed in the LO signal path to provide sufficient LO power to thefrequency converter.

The rear-panel LO output from the PNA is at a low level (typically -10 dBm) and must beamplified before it can be used by the frequency converter. A suitable amplifier is the NSIBroadband Microwave Amplifier, 2 18 GHz, Model No. NSI-RF-5939. Specifications for thisamplifier are shown in Table 2-7.


28/110


21

Figure 2-7 Wiring, PNA with internal LO Source and Frequency Converter

Table 2-7 Specifications for NSI-RF-5939 amplifier

Parameter Specification

Frequency Range 2 GHz to 18 GHz (usable from1 GHz to 20 GHz)

Gain, minimum 25 dB minimum, 27.5 dB typical

Output power at 1 dB compression +10 dBm typical

Output power, saturated +15.5 dBm typical

VSWR, input and output


29/110


22

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Mm-wave configuration with Agilent N526xA and OML module

2.9 Operation


Table 2-8 Settings for PNA with Internal LO Source + Frequency Converterconfiguration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PNA)

Power As desired


Offset 0

LO Source (Not applicable, controlled by the PNA)

Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch External


Offset DSP v4: 7.605634 MHz * (1 N)/N,DSP v5

3: 7.438017 MHz * (1 N)/N,

where N is the LO harmonic number.NSI2000 provides a checkbox to calculatethe offset automatically

Multiplier 1

Divisor 1 for fundamental mixing3 for 3

rdharmonic mixing


Measurement Ratio S21 (= B/R1), B/A or A/B, depending onsystem configuration



30/110


23

PROPRIETARY


2.10 Mm-wave configuration with Agilent N526xA and OML modules

2.10.1 Description

This configuration is intended for small millimeter-wave system applications where the PNA islocated close to the transmitting and receiving antennas. It is similar in operation to the

configuration described in the previous section. The configuration is sold as a complete Agilentsolution for banded millimeter-wave measurements. The Agilent N526xA millimeter-headcontroller provides amplification and switching for the RF, LO and IF signals, as well as DCpower for the OML millimeter-wave modules.

Two millimeter-wave modules are required; they can both be T/R modules, for full S-parameter test capability, or one can be a T module, for forward measurements only. A thirdtype of module, the S module, is available as well. One S module and one T moduleprovide S21 measurement capability, which is usually sufficient for antenna measurements.

Both the PNAs RF source and LO source, available from rear-panel outputs, are used in thisconfiguration, so no external sources are required. The IF outputs from the N526xA areconnected to the rear-panel IF inputs on the PNA.

Some Agilent configurations for frequencies of 100 GHz and above include two PSG sources toimprove the noise performance of the system. In standalone mode, the PNA can control bothPSG sources, but for antenna measurement applications they are controlled by the NSI2000software. See section 2.6.4for more information on this configuration.

Note for Series-B configurations: NSI2000 controls PSG sources with a frequency

resolut ion of 1 Hz. Because of the RF and LO mul tipl ier factors, the resulting IF will

deviate from the nominal IF. The IF frequency error can be as high as 18 Hz in the WR-03

band (RF multiplier = 18, LO multiplier = 18). This can affect the measurement SNR for

narrow IF bandwidths.


Connect the system components following the documentation provided by Agilent.

Required options for the PNA or PNA-Xare:

200, 2-port model 080, frequency offset 020, IF access.


31/110


24

Agilent PNA

Microwave

Network

Analyzer

R1 IN

B INPORT 1 PORT 2

Test Set I/O

RF LO R1

LO

AUTprobe

Port 1 Port 2

RF OUT

LO OUT BIAS

A IF

R1 IF

RF OUT

LO OUTBIAS

B IF

R2 IF

Agilent N5260A

Millimeter-Head

Controller

DC DC

LO

IF

For 50 GHz to 75 GHz use V15VNA2 modules



1 1

1

VxxVNA2-TBIAS

IF

LO IN

VxxVNA2-T/R

BIASREF IF

RF INLO IN

RF

LO

IF

B

(rear-panel connectors)

RF LO R1 B

2

2A T/R module may be used instead of a T module to

support both AUT Tx and AUT Rx modes

Test Set

Interface

Figure 2-8 Wiring, mm-wave configuration with OML heads

2.10.3 Operation

For operation in mm-wave bands, the PNA will be configured to use a Millimeter ModuleConfiguration. This is a banded setup, also known as the Agilent N5250A network analyzer. Thesystem uses an Agilent N5260A test set controller as an LO/IF distribution unit. The bandedmillimeter-head setup takes care of the Frequency Offset mode settings; to the operator, theoffset mode settings will appear to be off. Note that the front panel ports of the PNA are turned

off in mm-wave mode.

As an alternative, mm-wave operation can be configured using the setup in section 2.8, evenwhen using the N5260A.

Operational settings for the millimeter-wave configuration without PSG sources are shown inTable 2-9.

PROPRIETARY



32/110


25

Figure 2-9 Wiring, mm-wave configuration with OML heads and 2 PSGs

Table 2-9 Settings for PNA + N5260A + OML heads configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PNA)

Power As required per the Agilentdocumentation. Note that the RF powerafter multiplication cannot be controlled.

Harmonic Multiplication factor appropriate for themm-wave head

Offset 0

LO Source (Not applicable, controlled by the PNA)

Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch External



PROPRIETARY



33/110


26

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]PNA-X Receiver configurations

If the system includes 2 PSG sources, the following settings apply:

Table 2-10 Settings for PNA + N5260A + 2 PSGs + OML heads configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source (PSG)

Power As required per the Agilent

documentation. Note that the RF powerafter multiplication cannot be controlled.

Harmonic Multiplication factor appropriate for themm-wave head

Offset 0

LO Source (PSG)

Power As required per the Agilentdocumentation.

Harmonic LO harmonic factor appropriate for themm-wave head

Offset 0

Receiver

IFBW As desired

IF Switch External




34/110


27

PROPRIETARY


2.11 PNA-X Receiverconfigurations

2.11.1 Description

This configuration is intended as a drop-in replacement for the 8530A receiver. The receiver isessentially a PNA-X network analyzer without RF front end. It has 5 IF inputs, to allow 4 ratioed

measurements (the PNA-X analyzer has 4 IF inputs). The receiver has an option for a built-in LOsource (option 108), and an optional Fast-CW mode (option 118). Option 118 is highlyrecommended, since the retrace time is very high (up to 100 ms) without it.

The PNA-X receiver supports Agilent 8360-series, PSG and MXG sources. The receiver controlsthe sources; their operation is transparent to NSI2000. Sources can be controlled using the GPIBor LAN interface.

If the PNA-X Receiver has option 108, then only one external source is required. The LO outputof the PNA-X Receiver is then connected to the LO input of the frequency converter. Noamplifier for the LO should be needed since the PNA-X Receiver LO source output power is+10 dBm.


See 5Appendix Efor instructions on configuring external sources for the receiver.

No options are required to operate the PNA-X Receiver. However option 118 (Fast CW mode) ishighly recommended.


35/110


28

Agilent MXG

Agilent MXG

Agilent PNA-X

Receiver

RF Source

LO Source

RF

10 MHz Out

10 MHz In

10 MHz

Out

10 MHz

In

GPIB

GPIB

Ref IFTest IF

AUTprobe

Distributed Frequency Converter

NSI

LO/IF Unit

Module 1 Module 2

Reference LO/IF Test LO/IF

Attenuator

DFC

Mixer

LO/IF

RF

DFC

Mixer

LO/IF

RF

Directional

coupler

LO In

xn

Frequency

multiplier

(optional)

GPIB(0)

Trigger

connections

LO

Figure 2-10 Wiring, PNA-X Receiverconfiguration with MXG sources

PROPRIETARY



36/110


29

PROPRIETARY


2.11.3 Operation

Operational settings for the PNA-X receiver are as follows:

Table 2-11 Settings for PNA-X receiver+ DFC + 2 sources configuration

Parameter Setting

RF Source

Power As required


Offset 0

LO Source

Power As required

Receiver

IFBW As desired


Offset DSP v4: 7.605634 MHz * (1 N)/N,DSP v5

4: 7.438017 MHz * (1 N)/N,

where N is the LO harmonic number.NSI2000 provides a checkbox to calculatethe offset automatically

Multiplier 1

Divisor 1 for fundamental mixing3 for 3

rdharmonic mixing


Measurement Ratio B/R

2.11.4 Power levels

The IF inputs have a maximum input power (for 0.1 dB compression) of -9 dBm. The damagelevel is +23 dBm. The damage level is far above the maximum output of the LO/IF unit, sounder normal conditions the receiver inputs cannot be damaged.



37/110


30

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Series A vs. B

3 Controller Configurations

3.1 Series A vs. B

The controller is the software interface between the NSI2000 software and the hardwarecontrolling the scanner and/or positioners. NSI2000 supports two different controllers: theSeries-A controller and the Series-B controller. Each controller is configured differently.

The Series-A controller uses the NSI-PC-5518 (V35) controller as the beam controller. TheV35 controller provides triggering of the RF system as well as switch control based on the motorposition. The trigger can be generated internally, either based on stepper-motor position or bymonitoring a position readout, or it can be provided by an external input. The Series-A setup isexplained in section 3.4.

The Series-B controller uses an NSI-RF-5918 Standard Beam Controller (SBC) as the beamcontroller. It provides triggering of the beams (frequencies and switch positions) based on aposition trigger input from the positioner controller. The setup for a Series-B controller isexplained in section 3.5.

PNA systems that use an SBC are Series-B systems. PNA systems without an SBC are

Series-A systems.

Table 3-1compares the capabilities of the Series-A and Series-B configuration.indicates a

feature is supported;means a feature is not supported.

Table 3-1 Series A/B capability comparison

Feature Series-A Series-B

Support for all PNA family members(excluding N5264A PNA-X Receiver)

Support for N5264A PNA-X Receiver

Support for Fast-CW mode (Option 118,FIFO buffer)

PNA control using GPIB (limited support)

PNA control using LAN

Support for external sources (LAN or GPIB control) (GPIB control only)

External source controller PNA NSI2000

External source types All types supported by PNA Agilent 8360-series

Agilent PSG

Beam controller V35 controller SBC

Single-frequency trace buffer1

PNA source power off when not


38/110


31

measuring

1Single-frequency trace buffer: When measuring data for a single frequency, data transfer fromthe PNA to the control computer is done at the end of the cut, minimizing overhead. Thefrequency axis needs to be in the outer loop. Switch axes are allowed in the inner loop.

3.2 PNA Trigger Interface

Both the Series-A and Series-B controller use the AUX I/O interface of thePNA-L

for thetrigger and ready signals. A cable (NSI part number 04-00133, manufacturing part number200678-4) is required to provide an interface to BNC connectors. Figure 3-1shows the interfacecable pinout.

W2 Ext. Trigger In

1

Common

1

2

3

4

NCNCNCNC

6

7

8

9

NCNCNC

NC

5

W1 Trigger Ready

10NC11NC12NC13NC14

NC

18Trig ready19Ext. Trig in20NC21NC22NC23NC24NC25NC

17NC

16NC

15

NC

P1

P2

P3

Figure 3-1 PNA Trigger/Ready cable pinouts

For the PNA , PNA-Xand PNA-X Receiverthe rear-panel BNC connectors for receiver trigger

and ready are used. These devices do not require the trigger/ready cable. Connect the receivertrigger cable to MEAS TRIG IN and connect the stop sweep cable to MEAS TRIG RDY.

3.3 Controlling a remote device over GPIB

For any devices that are controlled over GPIB that are located more than about 8 m (26 ft) awayfrom the control computer, a GPIB extender device must be used. Compatible extenders that canbe used are the National Instruments GPIB-140A fiber-optic GPIB extender, or the National

Instruments GPIB-ENET/100 Ethernet-to-GPIB controller. Connection diagrams for both ofthese devices are shown below.

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Controlling a remote device over GPIB


39/110


32

Figure 3-2 Remote GPIB control with GPIB-140A extenders

The GPIB-140A requires T7 optical cables for transmission distances of up to 1 km.

Figure 3-3 Remote GPIB control with GPIB-ENET/100 Ethernet-to-GPIB Controller

One difference between these extenders is that the GPIB-140A requires a GPIB card in thecontrol computer, whereas the GPIB-ENET/100 does not.

3.4 Series-A configuration

3.4.1 PNA control interface

With the Series-A controller, the PNA can be controlled using either the GPIB or the LANinterface. The LAN interface is preferred since it is faster and does not require an interface cardin the computer. However, it is advised to install a separate LAN interface in the computerdedicated to the PNA this to avoid conflicts with corporate network setups. See Appendix Cfor instructions on configuring DCOM for the PNA. All NSI measurement workstationcomputers are provided with a dedicated LAN interface for the PNA.

When using GPIB, connect the GPIB cable from the control computer to the PNA. On PNAswith two GPIB interfaces, connect to the one labeled GPIB(1) Talker/Listener.

On startup, NSI2000 tries to connect to the PNA using LAN. If it cant find the PNA, it will tryto connect using the GPIB interface. If that fails as well, the driver will assume the PNA isoffline and display an error message.

PROPRIETARY

[Use restrictions as noted on Page ii]Series-A configuration


40/110


33

PROPRIETARY


3.4.2 Software setup

Configuration settings for the Series-A setup are saved in initialization files (ini files). Themain initialization file is controller.ini, located in thedllsfolder in the NSI2000 applicationdirectory (usuallyc:\nsi2000). In the [Setup]section, set EnablePNAX=1, as shown in Table3-2. Do not set EnablePNA; it is used for older PNAs (see UG-PNA E-Series)

Table 3-2 Controller.ini settings (Series-A)[ Set up]Enabl eNsi 3x=1 ; 0 = no, 1 = use V35 Cont r ol l erEnabl ePNA=0Enabl ePNAX=1

When the PNA is enabled incontroller.ini, the fileNscPnaX.iniis created automatically. Itcontains the current settings for the PNA. An example is shown in Table 3-3.

Table 3-3 NscPnaX.ini settings (Series-A)

[ PNA Rcvr ]CWFr eq=9370000000Axi sType=RfPnaConnectTo=Rcvr

Name=Fr equencyUpperLi mi t Freq=20. 000 GHz ; Upper posi t i on sof t ware l i mi tLowerLi mi t Freq=10. 000 MHz ; Lower posi t i on sof t ware l i mi tI FBW=10000Set t l i ngTi me=10. 000 usec ; The t i me bet ween t he t r i gger and t he st art of i ntegr ati onS_Par amet er I ndex=1 ; 0=S11, 1=S21, 2=S12, 3=S22, 4=Ot hersOt herReadMode=AB ; BA, AB, B/ R1, et c. . .CWDataTransf er=1 ; 0 = Poi nt, 1 = CutDi spl ayEnabl ed=1 ; 0 = No, 1 = YesDi spl aySegment =1 ; 0 = No, 1 = YesDi spl ayRef Level =- 50 ; Di spl ay r ef erence l evelDi spl ayRefPosi t i on=10 ; Di spl ay Y-axi s di vi si onPoi nt Tri gger =1 ; 0 = No, 1 = Yes

Tr i ggerSense=1 ; 0 = Hi gh l evel , 1 = Low l evel , 2 = Posi t i ve Edge, 3 = Negat i ve EdgeXmi t Power=5 ; Transmi t power i n dBmUpperLi mi t Power=20 ; Upper posi t i on sof t ware l i mi tLowerLi mi t Power=- 100 ; Lower posi t i on sof t ware l i mi tI sRf On=1 ; 0 = No, 1 = YesSourceHar moni cRat i o=1Sour ceFr equencyOf f set =0

Output Scal e=1. 000 Hz ; Smal l est uni t of i ncr ement f or t hi s axi sDwel l =0. 000 sec ; The dwel l or sett l i ng t i me f or an axi sDwel l LoopCount=2 ; Number of t i mes t o l oop dur i ng dwel l measurement. Must be greater t han 0.Dwel l Paddi ngFactor =1. 50 ; Paddi ng f actor appl i ed t o measured dwel l val ues. Must be equal or great er than 1.Recei verPr ocessi ngTi me=100. 000 msec ; The t i me bet ween t he st art of data read and dat a di spl ayUsePNAFreqOf f setCal cul ator =0 ; 0 = No, 1 = YesRecei verFr eqOf f set =20. 000 MHzFr equencyOf f set Di vi sor =1FrequencyOf f setMul t i pl i er=1R1_ReferenceMi xer Posi t i on=0 ; 0 = I nt ernal , 1 = ExternalI FAccess_A_R1_Posi t i on=0 ; 0 = Normal , 1 = Ext ernalI FAccess_B_R2_Posi t i on=0 ; 0 = Normal , 1 = Ext ernalPul seEnabl e=0 ; 0 = No, 1 = YesPul seI FBW=1000Pul sePRF=9000000[ Setup]I PAddr ess=192. 168. 6. 5Gpi bBoardNumber =0 ; GPI B board number .Gpi bAddr ess=16 ; GPI B Pr i mary addr ess.Gpi bSecondar yAddr ess=0 ; GPI B secondary addr ess.Gpi bTi meout=13 ; GPI B t i me out : 12 = 3 seconds, 13 = 10 seconds ( def aul t )Gpi bEOS=10

Most of the entries inNscPnaX.inirepresent parameters that can be set in the PNA receiverproperty pages. They are saved when you give the NSI2000 menu command Save settings asdefault. The entries that are not available through NSI2000 should normally stay at their defaultsettings. Changing these can affect the operation of the PNA driver.


41/110


34

3.4.3 V35 Controller Trigger setup

PNA triggering is done using the V35 controller. The trigger setup is defined in theNSI3.5 subController configurationdialog. The dialog is accessed by selectingHardware,Hardware axesfrom the NSI2000 pull-down menus. This brings up the NSI Integrated Controller dialog, shownin Figure 3-4.

Figure 3-4 Series-A controller, RF subsystem, Control tab

In thesub Controllerspull-down menu at the top of the dialog, selectNSI 3.5,Configure. Thisdisplays the dialog shown in Figure 3-5.

Figure 3-5 V3.5 Configure Dialog for CIO

PROPRIETARY



42/110


35

If the Trig and Stop Sweep Cable (see Figure 3-14) is connected to CIO-DIO port 808, make theselections as shown above. If a different port is used, such as 800 or 816, change the PIOAddress for the Receiver Trigger and Source Trigger accordingly. Keep the other settings asshown. Note that ports 804, 812 and 820 cannot be used here because they are output-only ports.

If a DSP Interface Unit (NSI-OP-5905) is used for the PNA trigger and ready, configure the 3.5sub-controller as shown below. See Figure 3-15for the configuration drawing with DSP.

Figure 3-6 V3.5 Configure Dialog for DSP Interface

3.4.4 Dialogs

The configuration and control dialogs for the Series-A PNA driver are explained below.

Items in the RF subsystem Control dialog (see Figure 3-4) are:

Table 3-4 RF subsystem Control Dialog

Frequency value, Set The current CW frequency. To change the frequency, enter anew value and press Enter, or click Set

Frequency drop-down list Select the RF item to edit. For PNA systems without externalsources, only Frequency can be selected. Note that thename of the axis can be changed in the Receiver Setupdialog (Figure 3-11), so a different name may be shown here.For PNA systems with external sources, the list can includeone or two sources.

Edit Displays the properties of the selected axis

Amp, Phase, S/N (Read-only) The System Monitor amplitude and phase readings, and thederived SNR. These are updated approximately once persecond.

Live RF Hold Stops the updating of the System Monitor readings.

PROPRIETARY



43/110


36

Figure 3-7 Series-A controller, RF subsystem, Configure tab

The Configu o use the

tings, start at the Integrated Controller dialog shown in Figuree

re tab (Figure 3-7) shows the assignments of available RF components. TPNA receiver, the itemFrequency on PNA Rcvrmust be assigned to the Receiver axis in thesystem. If it is listed in the Unassigned RF Axes, it can be made the active receiver by draggingand dropping it into the Receiver axis field. Similarly, unassigned RF switches can be assignedby dragging and dropping them into an available switch field. To active a Pol switch, drag &drop it into the Pol Axis field.

To view or change the PNA set3-4, and then click theEditbutton. This displays the NSIPNA Frequency form shown in Figur3-8.

PROPRIETARY



44/110


37

3.4.4.1 Series-A PNA Control tab

(shown with Fast CW Off, Measure S21) (shown with Fast CW On, Measure B/A)

Figure 3-8 Series-A PNA driver, Control tab

Items in the PNA Control tab are:

Table 3-5 Series-A Frequency Control dialog items

IFBW This drop-down list offers a selection of IF Bandwidthsettings, with the associated integration time, see Figure3-9. The integration time is measured during an IFBW Cal(see below). It is approximately equal to 1/IFBW, with someoverhead added.

Integration time, Measurement Time(Read-only)

These parameters are derived from the selections in thisdialog

MTI Setup These items define the measurements for the MTI featurein NSI2000, which includes the drift-during-scanmeasurements. The total MTI integration time is specified;multiple receiver readings will be made, if necessary, toarrive at the total. The quantization (IF Bandwidth) for eachreading can be specified. If the quantization is short (highbandwidth) then multiple readings may be required.

Min. Retrace Time The first beam dwell is set to this value. The recommended

PROPRIETARY



45/110


38

PROPRIETARY


value is 30 ms.

Processing time Time allocated to read the measurement data from thePNA. When not using FIFO, the minimum is 40 ms. WithFIFO enabled, the minimum is 5 ms.

Settling time This delay is added to the integration time to preventtriggering the next point prematurely.

FIFO Enabled This item is only available on the PNA-X if equipped withoption 118. Check to enable the Fast-CW buffer, which will

significantly reduce the retrace time. Set the processingtime to 5 ms when FIFO mode is enabled.

Firmware revision Firmware ID of the PNA. Also includes the serial number ofthe PNA.

Trigger IN Port and Sense Pointindicates each point in the PNA sweep is triggeredusing a pulse on the trigger input.

Sweepindicates the entire sweep is triggered with a singletrigger pulse. This mode is currently disabled.

Sensedefines the logic state for the trigger pulse; it isnormally set to Low Level.

Dwell Measurement Loop Count The number of sweeps executed for the Load SuggestedDwells function. The maximum is 20.

Dwell Measurement Padding Factor The measured frequency switching times are multiplied bythis number, to account for variation in the readings

Measure group Read

UG-PNA.pdf

Documents

Transcript of UG-PNA.pdf