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The material contained in this document is provided "as is," and is subject to being changed, without notice, in future editions. Further, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Agilent disclaims all warranties, either express or implied with regard to this manual and any information contained herein, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Agilent shall not be liable for errors or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, use, or performance of this document or any information contained herein. Should Agilent and the user have a separate written agreement with warranty terms covering the material in this document that conflict with these terms, the warranty terms in the separate agreement will control.

DFARS/Restricted Rights Notice

If software is for use in the performance of a U.S. Government prime contract or subcontract, Software is delivered and licensed as “Commercial computer software” as defined in DFAR 252.227–7014 (June

1995), or as a “commercial item” as defined in FAR 2.101(a) or as “Restricted computer software” as defined in FAR 52.227–19 (June 1987) or any equivalent agency regulation or contract clause. Use, duplication or disclosure of Software is subject to Agilent Technologies’ standard commercial license terms, and non-DOD Departments and Agencies of the U.S. Government will receive no greater than

Restricted Rights as defined in FAR 52.227–19(c)(1–2) (June 1987). U.S. Government users will receive no greater than Limited Rights as defined in FAR 52.227–14 (June 1987) or DFAR 252.227–7015 (b) (2)

(November 1995), as applicable in any technical data.

Technology Licenses

The hardware and/or software described in this document are furnished under a license and may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license.

Contacting Agilent

Assistance with test and measurements needs and information on finding a local Agilent office are available on the Web at: http://www.agilent.com/find/assist

If you do not have access to the Internet, please contact your Agilent field engineer.

In any correspondence or telephone conversation, refer to the Agilent product by its model number and full serial number. With this information, the Agilent representative can determine whether your product is still within its warranty period.

Safety and Regulatory Information

The safety and regulatory information pertaining to this product is located on page 169.

Where to Find the Latest Information

Documentation is updated periodically. For the latest information, please visit: http://www.agilent.com/find/fieldfox

Software Updates

Is your product software up-to-date? Periodically, Agilent releases software updates to fix known defects and incorporate product enhancements. To search for software updates for your product, go to www.agilent.com/find/fieldfoxsupport

2 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

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This program is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU

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FieldFox User’s Guide 3

6 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Overview

A.07.00 Firmware Release Updates

For customers upgrading FieldFox firmware, the following is a list of changes from the previous release:

NA Mode

3-trace overlay configuration .............................. 40

Removed limitations on Marker Table ............. 134

Marker Colors ....................................................... 135

Expanded Marker Formats ................................ 136

SA Mode

Field Strength Correction

(Red)

Trace .............. 75

CAT Mode

Distance Units saved as Preference ................. 159

All Modes (System)

Limit Beep on Pass .............................................. 143

Preferences Quick Settings table ...................... 159

Date and Time change restrictions ................... 165

Power ON .............................................................. 167

NA Factory Cal date ............................................ 167

7

Overview

Options and Features

Options and Features

Cable and Antenna Test (CAT) Mode

▪ 2 MHz to 4 GHz (Option 104)

▪ 2 MHz to 6 GHz (Option 106)

Measurements:

▪ Distance-to-fault (DTF)

▪ DTF & Return Loss

▪ Return Loss (dB)

▪ VSWR

▪ DTF (VSWR)

▪ Cable Loss (1-Port)

▪ Insertion loss (2-Port) (Option 110)

Transmission Measurement (Option 110)

QuickCal (Option 111)

Built-in cal kit. Industry first!

Spectrum Analyzer (SA) Mode

General purpose measurements for basic monitoring and troubleshooting.

▪ 100 kHz to 4 GHz (Option 230)

▪ 100 kHz to 6 GHz (Option 231)

▪ Preamplifier for Spectrum Analyzer (Option 235)

▪ Interference Measurements (Option 236)

Channel Power Meter Mode (Option 311)

No Power Meter required

Power Meter Mode (Option 302)

Use with Agilent External USB Power Sensors

Network Analyzer (NA) Mode (Option 303)

▪ 2 MHz to 4 GHz (Option 104)

▪ 2 MHz to 6 GHz (Option 106)

▪ Vector 1-port (Standard)

▪ Scalar 2-port (Option 110)

Measurements:

▪ S11 Reflection (several formats)

▪ S21 Transmission (several formats) (Option 110)

▪ A receiver

▪ R receiver

Vector Voltmeter (VVM) Mode (Option 308)

Measure electrical length

Measurements:

8

Learn more

Power Meter Mode on

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Overview

▪ 1-Port Cable Trimming (Mag and Phase)

▪ 2-Port Transmission (Magnitude only)

Designed for Field Environment

▪ Lightweight 6.2 lbs (2.8 kg) including battery

▪ Rugged, weather resistant shell with no fan/vents

▪ Daylight viewable 6.5” (16.5 cm) color LCD

▪ Backlit keys for night use

▪ Integrated kickstand

▪ Configurable hand and shoulder straps

▪ Softcase for carrying all gear

▪ Quick Reference Guide with laminated pages

Slots for removable USB Flash Drive and microSD Card

▪ Expands internal storage

▪ Useful for file transfer

▪ Flash Drive and microSD Card not included

▪ FieldFox release 4.0 supports microSDHC (high-capacity) Card

Battery or AC Power

▪ Rechargeable Li-Ion battery with ~4 hr life

▪ Easily removable battery

▪ AC/DC adapter

▪ External battery charger (N9910X–872)

FieldFox Data Link Software

▪ Easily manage files and compile reports

▪ Reads data from the FieldFox and plots traces

▪ Help file included with the software installation

▪ Download the latest version of the software at http://www.agilent.com/find/fieldfox

Additional Features

▪ Menus localized to 7 languages

Save / Recall on page 149

On page 169.

Languages on page 159

Accessories

The following accessories are included with every FieldFox. Spare accessories can be ordered at any time.

Description Accessory Part

Number

N9910X–873

N9910X–870

N9910X–880

N9910X–890

N9910X–891

AC/DC Adapter

Lithium-Ion Battery

Softcase w/ Backpack & Shoulder Strap

User’s Guide (printed copy)

Quick Reference Guide (printed copy)

To see a complete list of accessories that are available for the FieldFox, please visit: http://www.agilent.com/find/fieldfox.

9

10

FieldFox Manuals, Software, and Supplemental Help

The following manuals and software are available for the FieldFox. For the very latest versions, please visit the FieldFox support website at : www.agilent.com/find/fieldfoxsupport .

Check the manual revision on the first page of each manual.

 User’s Guide –This manual, included with shipment.

 Quick Reference Guide – Printed copy with laminated pages for outdoor use included with shipment.

 Supplemental Online Help - Concepts and Reference information. http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm



FieldFox Data Link Software and Help – Free download.

 Service Guide – Free download.



Firmware Updates – Check to see if you have the latest FieldFox firmware.

Conventions that are used in the Manual

 Hardkey indicates a front panel button. The functionality of these buttons does not change.

The six Softkey menus change dynamically and follow these color conventions:



Softkey

Blue indicates an available setting.



Softkey

Green indicates a change in menu level when selected.



Softkey

Black indicates the default or selected setting.

 Softkey Yellow indicates an active entry in process.



Softkey

Grey indicates a key that is NOT available.

Safety Notes

The following safety notes are used throughout this manual. Familiarize yourself with each of the notes and its meaning before operating this instrument. More pertinent safety notes for using this product are located in “Safety

Considerations” on page 185.

CAUTION

WARNING

Caution denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to or destruction

of the product. Do not proceed beyond a caution notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

Warning denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in injury or loss of life. Do not proceed beyond a warning note until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox

Check the Shipment

When you receive your FieldFox, check the shipment according to the following procedure:

1. Inspect the shipping container for damage. Signs of damage may include a dented or torn shipping container or cushioning material that indicates signs of unusual stress or compacting. If not damaged, save the packaging

material in case the FieldFox needs to be returned.

2. Carefully remove the contents from the shipping container, and verify that the standard accessories and your ordered options are included in the shipment according to the Box Contents List.

3. For any question or problems, refer to Contacting Agilent on page 2.

Meeting Power Requirements for the AC/DC Adapter

Voltage: 100 VAC to 250 VAC

Frequency: 50 Hz to 60 Hz

Current: 1.25 – 0.56 A

The AC/DC adapter supplied with the analyzer is equipped with a three-wire power cord, in accordance with international safety standards. The power cable appropriate to the original product shipping location is included with the

FieldFox.

Various AC power cables are available from Agilent that are unique to specific geographic areas. You can order additional AC power cables that are correct for use in different areas. For the power cord part number information please visit: http://www.agilent.com/find/fieldfox

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 11

Install the Lithium-Ion Battery

Step

1. Open the battery door.

2. Insert the battery.

3. Close the battery door.

Notes

Push the button on the battery compartment door while sliding the door outward.

The terminals end of the battery is inserted into the compartment.

Slide the battery compartment door upwards until it latches.

Battery Usage

When you receive your FieldFox, the lithium-ion battery is not installed, and it is partially charged to approximately 40% to preserve battery life. A lithium-ion battery has no memory effect, so it can be used partially charged, as shipped.

A fully charged battery will power your FieldFox for about four hours, so if you plan to use it for this long, you should fully charge the battery.

NOTE The FieldFox will shut down to prevent the battery from discharging to a level that is damaging. If this occurs, charge the battery either internally or externally.

Learn more about the lithium-ion battery on page 169.

Battery charge status is viewable:



In the upper-right corner of the screen.

 On the Battery screen. To access the screen, select System,

Service

Diagnostics

, and

Battery

 On the battery. Open the FieldFox battery compartment door to view the battery LCD.

12 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

To conserve battery power:

 Use Run/Hold to single-trigger a measurement when needed.

Hold

is shown on the display.

 Press System then

Display

then

Brightness

. Use the ▲|▼ arrows, the rotary knob, or numeric keypad to adjust the brightness to dim the FieldFox display as much as possible.

 Briefly press the power button to switch to Stand By mode when the FieldFox is not being used. Press again to restore power. All current settings are preserved.

When powered by the battery only, the FieldFox can stay in Stand By mode for a maximum of four hours and then it powers off automatically. When the relative battery charge drops about 20%, the FieldFox will power off to preserve the remaining charge.

To recharge a battery:

Use ONLY a FieldFox charger to recharge a battery.

 The battery can be fully charged while in the FieldFox in about 4 hours with the FieldFox either ON or OFF.

 It can be fully charged externally using the external battery charger (Opt 872) in about 4 hours.

When the battery is removed, the FieldFox can still be powered by the AC/DC adapter.

FieldFox ON/OFF Settings

 To turn power ON, briefly press the power button. Boot-up takes about 1 minute.

 To switch to Stand By mode (low battery drain), briefly press the power button. To turn power ON, briefly press the power button. Power and settings are restored instantly. See the Note above concerning Stand By mode.

 To turn Power OFF (very low battery drain), press and hold the power button until power is OFF - about 4 seconds. Data and instrument state are NOT automatically saved when the FieldFox is powered OFF. Learn how to save

data and instrument state on page 147.

 You can make a setting to automatically Power ON the FieldFox when a power

source is connected. Learn how on page 167.

Power button LED status

 Solid green – Power is ON

 Blinking green – FieldFox in Stand By mode

 Blinking amber – Battery charging.

 Blinking amber and green – Stand By mode and battery charging.

 Not lit – Power is Off and battery is not charging.

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 13

14

FieldFox High-Temperature Protection

NOTE

The following features prevent degradation or damage in the event of high internal temperatures in the FieldFox.

Do NOT store the FieldFox in the softcase while powered ON or in Stand By mode.

How to monitor the internal FieldFox temperature:

 Press System, then

Service Diagnostics

 Then

Internal Temperatures

The temperature at which the following events occur is the average of the RF1,

RF2, SB1, SB2 temperatures. These temperatures come from internal sensors embedded within FieldFox.

NOTE

Temperature Control Mode

At approximately 73 °C, the FieldFox enters Temperature Control mode by reducing display intensity and measurement speed. This should decrease the internal temperature which preserves measurement accuracy and maintains the long-term reliability of the FieldFox.

When entering Temperature Control mode, save your instrument state and data that you want to keep.

When the temperature drops to approximately 71°C, normal operating settings are restored.

Measurement speed specifications do NOT apply in Temperature Control Mode.

High-Temp Shutdown

In extreme situations, Temperature Control mode may not stop an increase in the FieldFox internal temperature. At approximately 75°C, High-Temperature

Shutdown will engage and turn OFF the FieldFox.

Just prior to shutdown, the FieldFox will display a warning of imminent shut down.

Avoid Overpowering the FieldFox

WARNING

The FieldFox can be damaged with too much power or voltage applied.

Exceeding the maximum RF power levels shown below will cause an ADC Over

Range message to appear on the screen.

Maximum Input Voltages and Power:

RF OUT Connector: ±50 VDC, +23 dBm RF

RF IN: ±50 VDC, +27 dBm RF

DC Input: 19 VDC, 4 ADC

Learn more about Maximum power and voltages in the FieldFox Data Sheet on

page 195.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

Very often, coaxial cables and antennas build up a static charge, which, if allowed to discharge by connecting to the FieldFox, may damage the instrument input circuitry. To avoid such damage, it is recommended to dissipate any static charges by temporarily attaching a short to the cable or antenna prior to attaching to the FieldFox.

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 15

16

Take the FieldFox Tour

Front Panel

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Front Panel

No. Caption

1 Power

LED

System

Function keys

Preset

Enter

Marker

Mkr→/Tools

Esc

Save/Recall

Limit

Run/Hold

Cal

Arrow keys

◄Back

Rotary knob

Softkeys

Screen

Description

ON: press momentarily.

STAND BY: with FieldFox power ON, press briefly.

OFF: press and hold until the FieldFox shuts off (about 4 seconds).

Not lit: FieldFox OFF, not charging

Green: FieldFox ON. Charging status indicated by battery icon on screen

Orange, flashing: FieldFox STAND BY

Orange, intensity increasing, flashing slowly: FieldFox OFF, charging

Displays a submenu for system setup

Includes: Freq/Dist Scale/Amptd BW Sweep, Trace, Meas

Setup Measure and Mode

Returns the analyzer to a known state

Confirms a parameter selection or configuration

Activates marker function

Displays a submenu for marker functions

Exits and closes the dialog box or clears the character input

Saves the current trace or recalls saved data from memory

Sets limit lines for quick Pass/Fail judgment

Toggles between free Run and Hold/Single operation.

Displays a submenu for calibration functions

Increases or decreases a value or setting.

Returns to the previous menu selection.

Highlights an item for selection, or enables incremental changes to values.

Allows selection of settings for configuring and performing measurements, and for other FieldFox functions.

Transflective screen, viewable under all lighting conditions. If you are using your FieldFox in direct sunlight, you do not need to shield the display from the sunlight. In bright lighting conditions, the display is brighter and easier to read when you allow light to fall directly on the screen. Alternative color modes exist that maximize viewing in direct sunlight conditions, as well as other conditions such as nighttime work.

Note: Clean the Transflective screen with gentle and minimal wiping using Isopropyl alcohol applied to a lint-free cloth.

Learn More on Page:

155

Refer to specific Mode.

156 - Display settings

19 - Screen Tour

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 17

Top Panel

Caption

RF OUT

Ext Trig/Ext Ref

RF IN

Description

For CAT and NA measurements, use to make reflection measurements.

Maximum: ±50 VDC, +23 dBm RF

External Reference connector to connect to an external frequency reference. Maximum: 5.5 VDC.

For CAT and NA mode, use to make transmission measurements.

For SA use to make all measurements.

Maximum: ±50 VDC, +27 dBm RF.

Side Panel

Learn More

CAT Mode on page 21

NA Mode on page 39

Ext Ref on page 162

Ext Trig (SA Mode) on

page 85

SA Mode on page 67

Caption Description

Ethernet cable connector to read trace data using the FieldFox Data Link Software.

Download the latest version of the software at http://www.agilent.com/find/fieldfox

Reserved for future use.

Learn More

DC power connector used to connect to the AC/DC adapter. Maximum: 19 VDC, 4

ADC.

Micro Secure Digital slot. Use to extend the memory of the FieldFox.

On page 12

File locations on page 147

Standard USB connector used to connect a power sensor for Power Meter Mode.

Also used to save files to a USB flash drive.

Use of Keyboard and Mouse is NOT supported.

Audio output jack for use with SA Mode Tune and Listen.

File locations on page 147

On page 78

18 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Screen Tour

Caption Description

1 Title – write your own text here

Current Mode

Run / Hold

Display Format

Scale/division

Calibration Status (CAT and NA)

Detection Method (SA)

Velocity Factor (Fault Meas)

Averaging Status and Count

Data / Mem Display (CAT and NA)

Step / FFT (SA)

Resolution Setting

Measurement Start Freq or Distance

Bandpass / Lowpass setting (Fault Meas)

IF BW in NA Mode

Output Power Level (CAT and NA)

Measurement Stop Freq or Distance

Actual Sweep Time

Limit Line Status

Time and Date

Marker Readout

Battery Status

Measurement Type (CAT and NA)

Reference Level

Reference Position

Learn More on Page:

Mode dependent

Mode dependent

Mode dependent

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 19

How to Enter Numeric Values

Many settings on the FieldFox require the entry of numeric values.

How to enter numeric values

Use any combination of the following keys:

 Numeric 0–9 keys, along with the polarity ( +/-) key.

 Up/Down arrow keys to increment or decrement values.

 Rotary knob to scroll through a set of values.

 Back erases previously entered values.

 Esc exits data entry without accepting the new value.

To complete the setting:

 Press Enter or a different

softkey

or hardkey.

Multiplier Abbreviations

Many times after entering numeric values, a set of multiplier or suffix softkeys are presented. The following explains the meaning of these abbreviations.

Select Frequency multipliers as follows:



GHz

Gigahertz (1e9 Hertz)



MHz

Megahertz (1e6 Hertz)



kHz

Kilohertz (1e3 Hertz)



Hertz

Select Time multipliers as follows:



Seconds



milliseconds (1e–3)



microseconds (1e–6)



nanoseconds (1e–9)



picoseconds (1e-12)

20 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode

CAT Mode is typically used to test an entire transmission system, from the transmitter to the antenna. This process is sometimes referred to as Line

Sweeping.

CAT Mode is similar to NA (Network Analyzer) Mode. Learn more in the

Supplemental Online Help:

http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

CAT Mode Distance to Fault measurements are discussed on page 31.

In this Chapter

Measurement Selection ......................................... 22

Coupled Frequency ............................................... 23

Quick Settings ........................................................ 23

Frequency Range ................................................... 24

Scale Settings ......................................................... 24

Averaging ............................................................... 25

Single/Continuous ................................................. 25

Resolution ............................................................... 26

Sweep Time ............................................................. 26

Output Power ......................................................... 26

Interference Rejection .......................................... 26

Procedures

Return Loss Measurement ................................... 28

1-Port Cable Loss Measurement .......................... 28

2-Port Insertion Loss Measurement ................... 29

Distance to Fault Measurements ......................... 31

Set Markers ........................................................... 131

Use Limit Lines .................................................... 141

Use Trace Math .................................................... 144

Making 75Ω (ohm) Measurements at the FieldFox Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 21

22

CAT Mode Settings

Select CAT Mode before making any setting in this chapter.

How to select CAT Mode

 Press Mode.

 Then

CAT

Measurement Selection

How to select a CAT Mode Measurement

Learn more about the following measurements in the Supplemental Online

Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

 Press Measure 1.

 Then choose one of the following: These softkeys also appear after CAT Mode is selected. o

Distance to Fault

1-port reflection measurement that uses Inverse Fourier

Transform (IFT) calculations to determine and display the distance to, and relative size of, a fault or disruption in the transmission line. Units are in return loss format, expressed as a positive number in dB, unless the measurement selected is DTF (VSWR). Learn more about DTF Measurements

on page 31.

Return Loss & DTF

Displays both a Return Loss measurement and a DTF measurement. Use this format to display the frequency settings that are used to make the DTF measurement. The frequency range settings for these two

measurements can be coupled or uncoupled. Learn more on page 23.

o Calibrations are applied to both traces. o When in Hold mode and Single sweep is performed, only the active trace is triggered. Use the ▲|▼ arrows to activate a trace. o

Return Loss

1-port reflection measurement that displays the amount of incident signal energy MINUS the amount of energy that is reflected. The higher the trace is on the screen, the more energy being reflected back to the

FieldFox. Learn how to measure Return Loss on page 26.

VSWR

(Voltage Standing Wave Ratio – also known as SWR) 1-port reflection measurement that displays the ratio of the maximum reflected voltage over the minimum reflected voltage. The higher the trace is on the screen, the more energy being reflected back to the FieldFox. o

DTF (VSWR)

Distance to Fault in VSWR format. o

Cable Loss (1-Port)

1-port reflection measurement that displays the loss of

a transmission line. Learn more on page 26.

Insertion Loss (2-Port)

(Option 110 ONLY) 2-port transmission measurement that accurately displays the loss through a cable or other device in dB. Both ends of the cable must be connected to the FieldFox. NO

phase information is included in this measurement. Learn more on page 29.

DTF (Lin)

Distance to Fault in Linear format.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Coupled Frequency

This setting is available ONLY when a Return Loss & DTF measurement is present and the DTF measurement is active. Otherwise, Coupled Frequency is set to ON and can NOT be changed.

Coupled Frequency ON (default setting) – Both traces have the same frequency range settings.

Coupled Frequency OFF - Both traces are allowed to have individual frequency range settings. When set to OFF:

 The Return Loss measurement frequency settings are made in the usual

manner. Learn how on page 23. When a new Start or Stop frequency is

selected, Coupled Frequency is automatically set to OFF.

 The DTF measurement is made using the frequencies as determined by the DTF

Frequency Mode setting. Learn more on page 33.

How to set Coupled Frequency

With a Return Loss & DTF measurement present:

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Select the DTF measurement (Tr2) using the ▲|▼ arrows.

 Then

Coupled Freq ON OFF

Quick Settings Table

Both CAT and NA Modes allow you to view and change most relevant settings from a single location. All of these settings are discussed in this chapter and, unless otherwise noted, ALL of these settings can also be made using the standard softkey menus.

How to view and change Quick Settings

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Settings

 Press

Next Page

and

Previous Page

to view all settings. If these softkeys are

NOT available, then all available settings fit on one page.

 To change a setting: o

Use the ▲|▼ arrows to highlight a setting. o

Then press

Edit

. The current setting changes to

yellow.

Some settings require you to press a softkey to change the value. Otherwise, use the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or rotary knob to change the value. o

When finished changing a value, press

Done Edit

 Press

Dock Window

to relocate the Settings table to a position relative to the trace window. The Dock Window setting persists through a Preset. Choose from the following: o

Full (Default setting) Only the Settings table is shown on the screen. The trace window is temporarily not shown. o

Left The Settings table is shown to the left of the trace window.

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 23

24

Bottom The Settings table is shown below the trace window.

 When finished changing ALL settings, press

Done

to save your settings.

Frequency Range

Set the range of frequencies over which you would like to make CAT Mode measurements.

When the frequency range is changed after a calibration is performed, the cal

becomes interpolated. Learn more on page 64.

How to set Frequency Range

 Press Freq/Dist.

 Then choose from the following: o

Start

and

Stop

frequencies - beginning and end of the sweep. o

Center

and

Span

frequencies – the center frequency and span of frequencies (half on either side of center).

 Follow each setting by entering a value using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. o

After using the keypad, select a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier

abbreviations on page 20.

After using the ▲|▼ arrows or the rotary knob, press Enter. The amount of frequency increment is based on the current span and can NOT be changed in CAT Mode.

Scale Settings

Adjust the Y-axis scale to see the relevant portions of the data trace. The Y-axis is divided into 10 graticules.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

How to set Scale

 Press Scale / Amptd .

 Then choose from the following:

Autoscale

Automatically adjusts the Y-axis to comfortably fit the Min and

Max amplitude of the trace on the screen.

Autoscale All

Autoscales all of the traces on the screen, useful only for dual-trace configurations.

3. Set Scale, Reference Level, and Reference Position: o

Scale

Manually enter a scale per division to view specific areas of the trace. o

Ref Level

Manually set the value of the reference line. Enter a negative value by pressing Run/Hold (+/-) either before or after typing a value. o

Ref Position

Manually set the position of the reference line. Values must be between 0 (TOP line) and 10 (BOTTOM line)

4. Set Top and Bottom graticule values. The scale per division is calculated. o

Top

to set the value of the Top graticule.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE o

Bottom

to set the value of the Bottom graticule. o

Enter a negative value by pressing Run/Hold (+/-) either before or after typing a value.

Scale annotation on the FieldFox screen

· Reference Line = red arrow

·Ref Level = -40 dB

· Ref Position = 1

· Scale = 2 dB per division

Averaging

Trace Averaging helps to smooth a trace to reduce the effects of random noise on a measurement. The FieldFox computes each data point based on the average of the same data point over several consecutive sweeps.

Average Count determines the number of sweeps to average; the higher the average count, the greater the amount of noise reduction.

An average counter is shown in the left edge of the screen as Avg N. This shows the number of previous sweeps that have been averaged together to form the current trace. When the counter reaches the specified count, then a ‘running average’ of the last N sweeps is displayed. Average Count = 1 means there is NO averaging.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

Averaging is often used to increase the dynamic range of a measurement. To achieve the highest dynamic range, select NA mode and reduce the IF Bandwidth

setting. Learn more about dynamic range on page 50.

How to set Trace Averaging

 Press BW 2 .

 Then

Average N

where N is the current count setting.

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad. Enter 1 for NO averaging.

 Press Enter.

 While Trace Averaging is in process, press Sweep 3 then

Restart

to restart the averaging at 1.

Single or Continuous Measure

This setting determines whether the FieldFox measures continuously or only once each time the

Single

button is pressed. Use Single to conserve battery power or to allow you to save or analyze a specific measurement.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

How to set Single or Continuous

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then choose one of the following:

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 25

26

NOTE o

Single

Automatically sets Continuous OFF and causes FieldFox to make

ONE measurement, then hold for the next Single key press. When a data trace is displayed, the entire trace is measured, then holds. The

Hold

annotation changes to an arrow

-->

while the measurement occurs. o

Continuous

Makes continuous measurements. This is the typical setting when battery power is not critical.

 You can also use Run / Hold +/- to toggle between Single and Continuous.

Resolution (Number of Data Points)

Data points are individual measurements that are made and plotted across the Xaxis to form a trace. Select more data points to increase measurement resolution.

However, more data points require more time to complete an entire measurement sweep.

When the Resolution is changed after a calibration is performed, the cal becomes

interpolated. Learn more on page 64.

How to set Resolution

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then

Resolution

 Then choose one of the following:

101 | 201 | 401 | 601 | 801 | 1001 |1601 | 4001 | 10001

 Using SCPI, Resolution can be set to any number of points between 3 and

10001. See the Programming Guide at www.agilent.com/find/fieldsfoxsupport

Sweep Time

The fastest possible sweep time is always used as the default setting. Use the Min

Swp Time setting to slow the sweep time when measuring long lengths of cable.

Learn more in the Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

The actual sweep time is shown on the FieldFox screen. See the Screen Tour on

page 19. To increase the sweep time, enter a value that is higher than the actual

sweep time. The increase will not be exactly the amount that you enter, as the actual sweep time is the composite of many factors.

Measurement speed specifications do NOT apply in Temperature Control Mode.

Learn more on page 14.

How to set Sweep Time

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then

Min Swp Time

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad.



Press a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20.

Output Power

Set the power level out of the FieldFox to High, Low, or manually set power level to a value between High and Low.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Generally, the high power setting is used when measuring passive, high-loss devices to place the signal farther from the noise floor. However, for devices that are sensitive to high power levels such as amplifiers, use the Low power setting.

For best measurement accuracy, use the Manual power setting at -15 dBm. After calibration, the power level can be decreased for amplifiers, or increased for higher dynamic range.

Caution Power Level settings in this mode will NOT change Power Level settings in other modes. To help prevent damage to your DUT, use caution when changing modes with your DUT connected to the FieldFox test ports.

How to set Output Power

Output power is NOT leveled with any of the power settings.

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Power

 Then

Output Power

High (Default setting) Sets output power to the maximum achievable power at all displayed frequencies. Please see the FieldFox Specifications for expected power levels. o

Low Sets output power to approximately –27 dBm, o

Man Set output power to an arbitrary value, o

Then press

Nominal Power

o o

Then enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

Press

Enter

Interference Rejection

Use this setting when you suspect that other signals in the area are interfering with a measurement. Interference may look like a spike or lack of stability in the measurement trace. While monitoring a measurement at a specific frequency, toggle this setting between ON and OFF. If the measurement result decreases while ON, then there is an interfering signal in the area. Continue to make measurements with Interference Rejection ON. However, this will slow the measurement speed.

Once enabled, up to SIX sweeps may be required before the interfering signal is neutralized.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

How to set Interference Rejection

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Interference Rejection [current setting]

 Then choose from the following: o

Off

No interference rejection and fastest possible sweep speed. o

Minimum

The lowest level of Interference rejection. o

Medium

The medium level of Interference rejection.

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 27

28

Maximum

The highest level of Interference rejection.

Return Loss Measurements

Return loss can be thought of as the absolute value of the reflected power as compared to the incident power.

When measuring an OPEN or SHORT, all incident power is reflected and approximately 0 dB return loss is displayed.

When measuring a LOAD, very little power is reflected and values of 40 dB to 60 dB are displayed.

The minus sign is usually ignored when conveying return loss. For example, a component is said to have 18 dB return loss, rather than –18 dB.

How to measure Return Loss

 Connect the cable or any adapter used to connect the device under test (DUT).

 Select Preset then

Preset

Returns the FieldFox to known settings.

 Select Mode then

CAT

(Cable and Antenna Test)

 Then

Return Loss

(Default measurement).

 Press Freq/Dist and enter

Start

and

Stop

frequency values of the measurement.

 Press Meas Setup 4 then

Settings

to make appropriate settings before calibrating.

 Disconnect the cable or DUT and press Cal 5 then follow the calibration prompts.

 Reconnect the cable or DUT.

 The return loss trace is displayed on the FieldFox screen.

1-Port Cable Loss Measurements

NOTE

While all cables have inherent loss, weather and time will deteriorate cables and cause even more energy to be absorbed by the cable. This makes less power available to be transmitted.

A deteriorated cable is not usually apparent in a Distance to Fault measurement, where more obvious and dramatic problems are identified. A Cable Loss measurement is necessary to measure the accumulated losses throughout the length of the cable.

A 2-port Insertion Loss measurement is usually more accurate than a 1-port

Cable Loss measurement. However, to perform a 2-port Insertion Loss measurement, both ends of the cable must be connected to the FieldFox, and the

FieldFox must have option 110 installed.

In high-loss conditions, a Cable Loss measurement becomes ‘noisy’ as the test signal becomes indistinguishable in the FieldFox noise floor. This can occur when measuring a very long cable and using relatively high measurement

frequencies. To help with this condition, use High Power (page 26) and

Averaging. (page 25).

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

How to make a 1-port Cable Loss Measurement

1. Press Preset then

Preset

2. Then

More

then

Cable Loss (1-Port)

3. Connect the cable to be tested.

4. Press Freq/Dist and enter

Start

and

Stop

frequency values of the measurement.

5. Press Sweep 3 then

Min Swp Time

. Increase the Sweep Time until a stable trace is visible on the screen. The amount of time that is required increases with longer cable lengths. Learn more in the Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

6. Remove the cable to be tested.

7. Press Cal 5 , then

QuickCal

OSL

8. Follow the prompts to perform calibration at the end of the jumper cable or

adapter. Learn more about Calibration on page 61.

9. Connect the cable to be tested.

Low-level standing waves (also known as ‘ripple’) which may be visible in reflection measurements, can hide the actual loss of the cable. Steps 10 through

13 can minimize the ripple. Perform the measurement with and without steps 10 through 13 and choose the method with the least amount of ripple.

10. Connect a LOAD at the end of the cable to be tested. This limits the reflections to faults that are located in the cable under test.

11. Press Trace 6 then

Data->Mem

to store the trace into Memory.

12. Remove the LOAD and leave the end of the cable to be tested open.

13. Press

Data Math

then

Data – Mem

. The ripple in the measurement is removed. These minor imperfections in the cable should not be considered in the Cable Loss measurement.

14. Use Averaging to remove random noise from high-loss measurements. Press

BW 2 then

Average

The displayed trace shows the Cable Loss values in one direction through the cable. A Return Loss measurement would show the loss for both down the cable and back. Therefore, a Cable Loss measurement is the same as a Return Loss measurement divided by 2.

The average Cable Loss across the specified frequency range is shown on the screen below the graticules.

2-Port Insertion Loss Measurements

A 2-port Insertion Loss measurement, available with option 110, is used to measure the loss through a DUT (device under test) – or cable – over a specified frequency range. The FieldFox signal source is transmitted out the RF OUT connector, through the DUT, and into the RF IN connector. Both ends of the DUT must be connected to the FieldFox, either directly or indirectly using the cable used in the normalization cal.

‘Insertion’ loss simply means loss through a device, usually expressed in dB. It is exactly the same measurement as “S21 Transmission” in NA Mode.

2-port Insertion Loss measurements are generally more accurate than 1-port

Cable Loss measurements.

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 29

NOTE A Normalization Cal is REQUIRED for making accurate 2-port CAT or NA

measurements. Learn how on page 63.

For highest accuracy, when measuring the DUT also attach any cable or adapter that was used in the normalization cal.

How to make a 2-port Insertion Loss Measurement

1. Press Mode then

CAT

2. Then

More

then

Insertion Loss (2-Port)

3. Press Freq/Dist and enter

Start

and

Stop

frequency values of the measurement.

4. Press Sweep 3, then select a

Resolution

setting.

5. Press Cal 5, then press

Normalization

. Perform normalization as explained

on page 63.

6. Connect the DUT and view the insertion loss measurement results.

When measuring very long lengths of cable, it may be necessary to increase the

sweep time. Learn how on page 26. Learn why in the Supplemental Online

Help:

http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

30 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

DTF (Distance to Fault) Measurements

CAT Mode Distance to Fault (DTF) measurements are generally used to locate problems, or faults, in a length of cable or transmission line. In this chapter, the cable to be tested is referred to as the DUT (Device Under Test).

Settings that are NOT unique to DTF measurements are documented in the CAT

Mode chapter on page 21.

In this Chapter

How to make DTF Measurements ....................... 31

DTF Settings Table ................................................ 32

DTF Measurement (Format) ................................ 32

DTF Start and Stop Distance ............................... 32

Frequency Mode ..................................................... 33

Coupled Frequency ............................................... 34

Cable (Correction) Specifications ....................... 34

Window Settings .................................................... 37

DTF Units ................................................................ 37

Calculated DTF Values .......................................... 37

About Alias Faults ................................................. 38

Optional settings

Markers .................................................................. 131

Limit Lines ............................................................ 141

Save Measurement Settings and Results ......... 147

Trace Math is NOT available in DTF Measurements.

How to make DTF Measurements

Before starting, you may need the following:

 Jumper cable or adapter to connect the beginning of the DUT to the FieldFox.

 LOAD with correct connector type and gender to terminate the end of the DUT

(if possible).

 The known length and cable type of the DUT. If the cable type is not known, then the Cable Loss (dB/Meter) and Velocity Factor of the DUT are required.

1. Connect any necessary jumper cable or adapter to the FieldFox RF OUT port.

Do NOT connect the DUT.

2. Press Preset then

Preset

to return the FieldFox to the default settings.

3. Then Mode then

CAT

4. Then

DTF

5. Press Freq/Dist , then

Stop Distance

and enter the length of the DUT. You can optionally set the Start Distance.

6. Press Cal 5 and follow the Cal prompts. Learn all about Calibration on

page 52.

DTF (Distance to Fault) Measurements 31

32

7. Disconnect any components or antenna that should NOT be measured and connect a LOAD at the end of the DUT.

8. Press Meas Setup 4 then

DTF Cable Specifications

9. Either press

Recall Coax Cable

, or enter the

Velocity Factor

and

Cable

Loss

of the DUT.

10. Connect the start end of the DUT to the FieldFox.

11. Press Meas Setup 4 then

Settings

then

Next Page

. If the Alias-free Range setting is False, then you may see Alias faults on the screen. Learn more on

page 38.

DTF Measurement Settings

DTF Settings Table

You can set and view all of the DTF settings, including some calculated values, on

the DTF Settings table. Learn about the calculated values on page 37.

How to make settings on the DTF settings table

 Press Meas Setup 4.



Then

Settings



Press

Next Page

and

Previous Page

to view all settings.



To change a setting: o

Use the ▲|▼ arrows or rotary knob to highlight a setting. o

Numeric settings can be changed by pressing numbers using the numeric keypad. Then press Enter or select a suffix if available. o

Other settings require you to press

Edit

, then press a softkey to change the value. o

When finished changing a value, press

Done Edit



Press

Dock Window

to relocate the Settings table to a position relative to the trace window. The Dock Window setting persists through a Preset. Choose from the following: o

Full (Default setting) Only the Settings table is shown on the screen. The trace window is temporarily not shown. o

Left The Settings table is shown to the left of the trace window. o

Bottom The Settings table is shown below the trace window.

 When finished changing ALL settings, press

Done

to save your settings.

DTF Measurement (Format)

You can select from 3 different DTF Formats.

 Press Measure 1

 Then choose from: o

Distance to Fault (dB)

Faults are displayed on the Y-axis in return loss format, expressed as a positive number in dB.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

DTF (VSWR)

Faults are displayed on the Y-axis in SWR. Learn more about

SWR at the FieldFox Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

More

then

DTF Lin

Faults are displayed on the Y-axis in linear (unitless) format.

DTF Start and Stop Distance

In DTF measurements, you set the physical length of cable or other device to be tested. The FieldFox calculates the frequency range of the measurement from this distance. The longer the cable to be tested, the lower the frequencies that are used. You can also set the frequencies manually using the Frequency Mode

[Bandpass] setting.

How to set Start and Stop Distance

 With a DTF measurement present, press Freq/Dist.

 Then choose from the following: o

Start Distance

Enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob, then Enter. By default, the Start Distance is set to 0

Meters. This means that the measurement will display faults starting at the point at which calibration standards are connected. o

Stop Distance

Enter a value between the start distance and 5 km (or

16,404 ft.) using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob, then Enter .

Frequency Mode

All DTF measurements are made with frequency settings and, using Inverse

Fourier Transform (IFT), the time and distance to faults are calculated.

How to set Frequency Mode

With a DTF measurement present,

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Freq Mode

 Choose one of the following: o

Lowpass Mode

The frequency range of a DTF measurement is set automatically based on the Start and Stop Distances. Use Lowpass mode when the DUT is a cable ONLY. o

Bandpass Mode

(Default setting) The frequency range of a DTF measurement is set manually. Use Bandpass mode when the DUT contains a diplexer or other filtering device which does not pass some frequencies.

Typically, you will set the frequency range of the measurement to the passband of the filter. However, you may also want to test the ability of the filter to reject unwanted frequencies. In this case, set the frequency range to include those frequencies which the filter may not be adequately rejecting.

DTF (Distance to Fault) Measurements 33

34

When the DTF frequencies are set manually, they may not be the optimum frequencies for measuring the distance to fault. The distance may no longer be

alias-free. Learn more about alias-free range on page 38.

How to manually set Frequencies in Bandpass Mode

 Press Freq/Dist

 Then

Min Start Freq

and type the start frequency to use for the DTF measurement.

 Then

Max Stop Freq

and type the stop frequency to use for the DTF measurement.

 Press

More

 Then

Max Freq Span

and type the frequency range to use for the DTF measurement.

 Then

Center Frequency

and type the center frequency of the range to use for the DTF measurement.

These settings specify the minimum and maximum frequencies to be used for the

DTF measurement. These exact frequencies may not be used, but a narrower frequency range may be used that will still pass through the bandpass filter.

To see the frequencies that are used in the DTF measurement, press Meas Setup

4 then

Settings

then

Next Page

. The calculated Start and Stop frequencies determine the exact frequency range being used.

Coupled Frequency

When a Return Loss & DTF measurement is present, this setting allows you to

have different frequency ranges for each measurement. Learn more on page 23.

Cable (Correction) Specifications

By default, the FieldFox does NOT correct DTF measurements to account for the inherent loss of a cable. However, to make more accurate DTF measurements, the

Cable Loss and Velocity Factor values should be considered.

About Velocity Factor and Cable Loss

Velocity Factor is a property of the physical material of a cable. A VF of 1.0 corresponds to the speed of light in a vacuum, or the fastest VF possible. A polyethylene dielectric cable has VF = 0.66 and a cable with PTFE dielectric has VF = 0.7. o

Cable Loss is specified in dB/meter. In addition to the length of the cable, loss is also directly proportional to the frequency of the signal that passes through the cable.

The following is an example showing how DTF cable correction works:

The DUT is a 100 meter transmission cable. The Cable Loss value is .1 dB/meter. This means that a signal traveling ONE WAY through the cable will lose 10 dB of power (100 m * .1dB/m). Because the FieldFox performs this measurement with 1 port, the test signal travels down the cable and then back, for a total loss of 20 dB.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

After a calibration has been performed, for the purpose of illustrating this point, connect an OPEN to the end of the cable – a maximum-sized fault - for 100% reflection of the 300 MHz test signal.

Without compensation for the loss of the cable, a –20 dB response would be visible at 100 meters, which is the OPEN at the end of the DUT. This is from 10 dB of loss through the cable in each direction.

With compensation for the loss using the manufacturer’s specification, the

FieldFox compensates the trace as though the signal traveling through 100 meters was increased by +20 dB. Therefore the response will show 0 dB for 100% reflection.

How to enter Cable Loss and Velocity Factor

Cable Loss and Velocity factor can be entered using one of the following methods:

 Manually enter cable loss and velocity factor for the measurement.

 Select or create a cable file which contains the cable loss and velocity factor.

With a DTF measurement present:

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

DTF Cable Specifications

 Select

Cable Corr

Auto

Use Cable Loss and Velocity Factor values from a Cable file. See “How to Edit, Save, and Recall a Cable File” below. This will overwrite a manuallyentered value. o

Man

(Default setting) Manually enter a value for Cable Loss and Velocity

Factor.

 Then: o

Velocity Factor

Using the numeric keypad, enter a value between 0.01 and

1. Then press Enter. o

Cable Loss

Using the numeric keypad, enter a positive Cable Loss value in dB/m, then press Enter.

How to Edit a Cable File

The FieldFox includes many predefined cable files with the manufacturer’s specifications. You can edit these files or create new cable files using the following procedure or using the FieldFox Data Link Software. Learn more at: www.agilent.com/find/fieldsfoxsupport

The Cable correction data survives a Mode Preset and Preset.

With a DTF measurement present:

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

DTF Cable Specifications

 Then

Edit/Save/Recall Cables

 Press

New

then

Yes

to clear all data from the existing DTF Cable table and reset header information to default settings.

 Then

Edit Cable

to open the Cable Editor.

DTF (Distance to Fault) Measurements 35

36

 Then use the ▲|▼ arrows to select a field, o

When editing Cable Description information, press

Edit

then modify the selected field using the FieldFox labeler. o

When editing Frequency/Loss pairs, enter numbers using the numeric keypad, then select a frequency suffix. Then

Enter

. Learn more about “How the Freq/Loss pairs are applied” below.

 Optionally choose from the following: o

Previous / Next Page

Quickly scrolls through pages of Freq/Loss data. o

Add Data

Add a blank Freq/Loss pair to the table, o

Delete/Clear

then: o

Delete Line

Remove the selected Freq/Loss pair from the table. o

Clear All

then

Yes

Remove all Freq/Loss pairs from the table and resets header information to default settings.

 Press

Done

to close the Cable Editor.

How to Save or Recall a Cable

 Press

Save Cable

to saves your changes to the specified Storage Device. Enter

a filename using the FieldFox labeler (learn more on page 147). Learn more

about Cable files below.

 Press

Recall Cable

to load a Cable file from the specified Storage Device.



Storage Device

Changes the device used to save or recall Cable files. This is a different setting from the Save/Recall Storage Device setting. Choose from

Internal (default setting), USB (must be connected) or SD card.

About Cable files

 Cable files are saved to, and recalled from, the Cables folder. If the folder does not already exist on a USB or SD card, it is created automatically before storing the file.

 Cable files are stored as *.xml files. Existing cable files that are preloaded into the FieldFox firmware can be overwritten. Your edited file will NOT be overwritten when firmware is updated.

How the Freq/Loss pairs are applied

When the cable file contains one Freq/Loss pair, that correction value is applied to the entire displayed frequency span.

When the cable file contains two or more Freq/Loss pairs, the Loss value that is used is interpolated from the Freq/Loss pairs and the DTF center frequency. For example, using a cable file with the following Freq/Loss pairs:

1 GHz: 0.1 dB/m

2 GHz: 0.2 dB/m

The center frequency for the measurement is determined from the calculated

(Stop – Start) frequency values (seen on the second page of DTF Settings):

Calculated Start = 2.0 MHz

Calculated Stop = 3.598 GHz

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Center Freq = 1.80 GHz

The Loss value for the measurement is interpolated from the Freq/Loss pairs at the Center Freq:

1 GHz = 0.1 dB/m

1.8 GHz = 0.18 dB/m

2 GHz = 0.2 dB/m

The correction for loss at 5 meters in one direction: 0.18 dB/m * 5m = 0.9 dB.

All DTF measurements correct for loss for travel down the DUT and back, so double the correction: 0.9 dB * 2 = 1.8 dB.

Window Settings

Window settings provide the ability to choose between optimizing DTF measurements for resolving closely-spaced faults or for the ability to measure low-level faults.

How to select Window settings

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Settings

 Then press ▲|▼ arrows to move to the Window row.

 Then press

Edit



Then press

Window

repeatedly and choose from the following: o

Maximum – Optimized for dynamic range, the noise floor is lowered to provide the ability to measure low-level responses. (Default setting) o

Medium – Compromise between Min and Max window settings. o

Minimum – Best Response Resolution, providing the ability to resolve between two closely-spaced responses.



Then press

Done Edit



Again press

Done

DTF Units

The DTF Units setting is available ONLY on the DTF Settings table.

By default, X-axis units for DTF measurement settings are displayed in Meters.

 Select DTF Units.

 Then choose from: o

M (meters) o

Feet

Calculated DTF values

Press

Next Page

on the DTF Settings Table to view the following calculated

Values noted on the FieldFox screen with c - <setting> :

Start Frequency – Start frequency that is used to calculate DTF.

DTF (Distance to Fault) Measurements 37

38

Stop Frequency – Stop frequency that is used to calculate DTF.

Range Resolution. Indicates the accuracy of the distance to fault measurement.

For example, with range resolution of 500 mm, if the distance to fault is 10 meters, this value could be inaccurate by +/- 500 mm or between 9.5 to 10.5 meters. This value is calculated from frequency span / resolution (points).

Response Resolution, not displayed, indicates the distance that could be between two faults and still show as separate faults. Learn more in Window Settings on

page 37.

Maximum Distance. The distance that could be viewed with the current settings.

Defined by: Vf*c*Points/(2*Bandwidth) where: o

Vf = velocity factor o c = speed of light o

Points = resolution o

Bandwidth = frequency range

Alias-free Range (On/Off) o

On = No Alias images o

Off = Alias images may appear in the response.

About Alias Faults

An alias fault is not a true device response. An alias fault appears because of the method used to convert frequency to time.

On the DTF Settings page (above) the c - Alias-free Range = Off setting indicates alias images MAY appear on the screen.

Shorter stop distances (less than 10 meters) and a higher resolution (1001 points) will be more likely to result in Alias-free Range = Off.

When the Alias-free Range = Off, the following procedure will help to determine if a response is true or an alias response:

1. Put a marker on the response in question and note the distance to the fault.

2. Change the start or stop distance.

A true fault response will not move in distance. That is, if a true fault is present at 10.3 meters, changing the stop distance from 15 m to 20 m will not move the fault; the fault will remain at 10.3 meters. However, an alias response will appear to move.

An un-terminated cable (with NO perfect load at the end) will show faults that appear to be beyond the end of the cable. These are NOT alias faults. These faults appear as the signal reflects off the open at the end of the cable and travels back down the cable toward the connection at the FieldFox. Re-reflections are measured at the FieldFox as mirror images of the original faults. The largest fault is the open end of the cable. To avoid confusion, set the Stop distance shortly after that fault.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode

Learn more about NA Mode measurements in the FieldFox Supplemental Online

Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

In this Chapter

Measurement Selection ......................................... 40

Quick Settings ........................................................ 41

Format ..................................................................... 41

Frequency Range ................................................... 43

Scale Settings ......................................................... 43

Electrical Delay ...................................................... 44

Phase Offset ............................................................ 44

Averaging ................................................................ 45

IF Bandwidth .......................................................... 46

Smoothing ............................................................... 46

Single/Continuous ................................................. 46

Resolution (number of points) ............................ 47

Sweep Time ............................................................. 47

Output Power ......................................................... 47

System Impedance ................................................. 48

Port Extensions ...................................................... 48

Velocity Factor ....................................................... 49

S21 Transmission Measurement ......................... 50

Increase Dynamic Range ...................................... 50

Set Markers ........................................................... 131

Use Limit Lines .................................................... 141

Use Trace Math .................................................... 144

Learn how to make 75Ω (ohm) Measurements in the Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

NA Mode Settings

Select NA Mode before making any setting in this section.

How to select NA Mode

 Press Mode_.

 Then

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode 39

NOTE

Measurement Selection

How to select a NA Measurement

 Press Measure 1.

 Then choose from the following: o

S11

1-port reflection measurement. o

S21

2-port transmission measurement. Requires Opt 110. Learn how to

make this measurement on page 48.

More

- These measurements are typically used as diagnostic tools for service personnel. o o

Measurement of the A receiver.

Measurement of the R1 receiver.

The A and R1 receiver measurements are NOT corrected for absolute power.

They are only useful for making relative measurements. The Y-Axis and markers are labeled in dB - NOT dBm. Specifically, R1 does NOT indicate the actual power levels out of the source port. The actual power level is close to the typical output power of +5 dBm (High power) and -25 dBm (Low power).

Learn more about raw receiver measurements in the FieldFox Supplemental

Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

Multi-Trace Configurations

In NA Mode you can display multiple traces on the FieldFox screen.

40

A 3-trace configuration. Tr2 is the ACTIVE trace as indicated by the highlighted

Tr 2

Trace Setting Notes

 The Frequency Range, IF BW, Resolution, Average, and Output Power settings are common for all displayed traces.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

 All other trace settings, such as measurement, format, and limit lines, are applied individually to the ACTIVE trace in the same manner as when a single trace is present.

 When creating markers, by default a marker is created on ALL traces as shown in the above image. However, they can be created individually by disabling

Coupled Markers. Learn more on page 134.

How to select a multi-trace configuration

 Press Trace 6

 Then

Num Traces

 Then choose from the following:

The default measurements depend on the options that are installed.

1 trace standard configuration

2 traces overlayed on a single graticule

x2H

2 traces on separate horizontal graticules

x3H

3 traces on separate horizontal graticules

3 traces overlayed on a single graticule

4 traces on separate graticules

 How to activate a trace in order to change a setting

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows OR

 Press Trace 6 then select

Trace 1

Trace 2

Trace 3

, or

Trace 4

, Only traces that are shown can be activated.

How to maximize the viewing of the active trace

 Press System 7

 Then

Full Screen

 Press any key to return to the standard display.

Quick Settings

How to view and change Quick Settings



Press Meas Setup 4.



Then

Settings



Press

Next Page

and

Previous Page

to view all settings. If these softkeys are

NOT available, then all available settings fit on one page.



To change a setting: o

Use the ▲|▼ arrows to highlight a setting.

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode 41

42

NOTE o

Then press

Edit

. The current setting changes to

yellow

. o

Some settings require you to press a softkey to change the value. Otherwise, use the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or rotary knob to change the value. o

When finished changing a value, press

Done Edit

 Press

Dock Window

to relocate the Settings table to a position relative to the trace window. The Dock Window setting persists through a Preset. Choose from the following: o

Full (Default setting) Only the Settings table is shown on the screen. The trace window is temporarily not shown. o

Left The Settings table is shown to the left of the trace window. o

Bottom The Settings table is shown below the trace window.

 When finished changing ALL settings, press

Done

to save your settings.

Format

Select the display format in which to present measurement results. This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

Learn more about Display Formats in the FieldFox Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

The marker onscreen readout can be changed to formats other than the display

format. Learn how to set marker format on page 136.

How to select a NA Format



Press Measure 1.



Then

Format [current setting]



Then choose from the following: o

Log Magnitude

Displays magnitude in dB o

Linear

Displays positive values only. Y-axis: Unitless (U) for ratioed measurements; Watts (W) for unratioed measurements. o

VSWR

(S11 and Fault Location Only) Displays unitless reflection data. o

Phase

(S11 Only) Displays phase in degrees. The trace ‘wraps’ every 360 degrees, from +180 to –180, for easy scaling. o

Smith

(S11 Only) Displays series resistance and reactance. o

More

then o

Polar

(S11 Only) Displays magnitude and phase of the reflection coefficient. o

Group Delay

(S11 Only). Displays propagation time (in seconds) from the

RF port to the point where it is reflected, and back to the A receiver. The aperture setting is the frequency range/(number of points – 1). Use

Smoothing as the Group Delay aperture. Learn how to set Smoothing on

page 46. Learn more about Group Delay in the FieldFox Supplemental

Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

Unwrap Phase

Same as Phase, but without 180 degree wrapping.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE Phase is unwrapped by comparing the phase from one data point to the next. If the phase difference between two data points is greater than 180 degrees, or if the phase of the first data point is greater than 180 degrees from DC, than the phase measurement is probably NOT accurate. Increase the resolution setting to ensure that the phase measurement is accurate.

Frequency Range

Set the range of frequencies over which you would like to make measurements.

When the frequency range is changed after a calibration is performed, the cal

becomes interpolated. Learn more on page 64.

How to set Frequency Range

This can be done in two ways:

 Press Freq/Dist

 Then choose from the following:

Start

and

Stop

frequencies – Specify the beginning and end of the sweep.

Center

and

Span

frequencies - Specify the center frequency and span of frequencies (half on either side of center).

 Follow each by entering a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 After using the ▲|▼ arrows or the rotary knob, press Enter. The increment setting of the arrows is based on the current span and can NOT be changed in

NA Mode.

 After using the keypad, select a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier

abbreviations on page 20.

Scale Settings

Adjust the Y-axis scale to see the relevant portions of the data trace. The Y-axis is divided into 10 graticules.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

How to set Scale

 Press Scale / Amptd.

 Then choose from the following methods:

Autoscale

Automatically adjusts the Y-axis to comfortably fit the Min and

Max amplitude of the trace on the screen.

Autoscale All

Autoscales all of the traces on the screen, useful only for multi-trace configurations.

3. Set Scale, Reference Level, and Reference Position o

Scale

Manually enter a scale per division to view specific areas of the trace. o

Ref Level

Manually set the value of the reference line. Enter a negative value by pressing Run/Hold (+/-) either before or after typing a value. o

Ref Position

Manually set the position of the reference line. Values must be between 0 (TOP line) and 10 (BOTTOM line)

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode 43

44

Scale annotation on the

FieldFox screen

· Reference Line = red arrow

· Ref Level = –40 dB

· Ref Position = 1

· Scale = 2 dB per division

Electrical Delay

Electrical delay is a mathematical function that simulates a variable length of lossless transmission line. Use the electrical delay feature to compensate for the linear phase shift through a device and view only the deviation from linear phase of the device.

You can set the electrical delay independently for each measurement trace. To apply an electrical delay to all measurement traces, use Port Extensions. Learn

how on page 48.

Phase is available only with S11 measurements – NOT S21.

Learn how to set Phase formats on page 42.

How to set Electrical Delay

 Press Scale / Amptd

 Then

More

 Then

Electrical Delay

 Enter a time value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.



Press a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20.

Electrical Delay can also be set using the Mkr->Delay feature. Learn how on page

140.

Phase Offset

Phase format is available only with S11 measurements. Learn more on page 42.

Phase offset mathematically adjusts the phase measurement by a specified amount, up to 360°. Use this feature in the following ways:

Improve the display of a phase measurement. This is similar to the way you would change the reference level in an amplitude measurement. Change the phase response to center or align the response on the screen.

Emulate a projected phase shift in your measurement. For example, if you know that you need to add a cable and that the length of that cable will add a certain phase shift to your measurement, you can use phase offset to add that amount and simulate the complete device measurement.

You can set the phase offset independently for each measurement trace.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

How to set Phase Offset

 Press Scale / Amptd

 Then

More

 Then

Phase Offset

 Enter a value in degrees using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. Press Enter

Averaging

Averaging helps to reduce the effects of random noise on a measurement. You specify the number of measurements to be averaged. The more measurements averaged, the greater the amount of noise reduction. An average counter is shown in the left edge of the screen as Avg <n> where <n> is the number of measurements that are averaged.

Averaging can be set before or after calibration. When set before calibration, each calibration standard is measured <n> times and averaged. More time is needed to perform the calibration, but there will be less noise in the resulting error terms which means that subsequent measurements will also have less noise. In addition, noise is further reduced by continuing to average after calibration.

How to set Averaging

 Press BW 2.

 Then

Average <n>

where <n> is the number of measurements to average.

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad. Enter 1 for NO averaging.

 Press Enter.

 Then

Average Mode

Choose from the following: o

Sweep - Each data point is based on the average of the same data point being measured over <n> consecutive sweeps. The average counter shows the number of previous sweeps that have been averaged together to form the current trace. When the counter reaches the specified count, then a ‘running average’ of the last <n> sweeps is displayed. o

Point - Each data point is measured <n> times and averaged before going to the next data point. On subsequent sweeps, averaging restarts by measuring each data point again <n> times. The average counter is not updated because data is not displayed until all the averages have been applied. o

Point averaging is usually faster than sweep averaging. However, you may need to increase the Point Average count to obtain the same level of noise reduction as with sweep averaging.

 While averaging is in process, press Sweep 3, then

Restart

to restart the averaging at 1.

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode 45

46 IF Bandwidth

The FieldFox converts the received signal from its source to a lower intermediate frequency (IF). The bandwidth of the IF bandpass filter is adjustable. Reducing the IF receiver bandwidth reduces the effect of random noise on a measurement.

However, narrower IF bandwidths cause longer sweep times.

How to set IF BW

 Press BW 2.

 Then

IF BW

 Then choose from the following:

300 Hz | 1 kHz | 3 kHz | 10 kHz | 30 kHz

Smoothing

Trace smoothing averages a number of adjacent data points to smooth the peakto-peak noise values on a displayed trace. The number of adjacent data points that are averaged is known as the smoothing aperture . Aperture is set by specifying a percentage of the X-axis span.

Trace smoothing does NOT significantly increase measurement time.

Smoothing is used in Group Delay measurements, although it can be used with any NA format EXCEPT Polar or Smith Chart. Learn more about NA Mode

formats, including Group Delay, on page 42.

When enabled,

Smo

appears on the FieldFox screen.

How to set Smoothing

 Press BW 2.

 Then

Smoothing ON OFF

 Then

Sm. Aperture

and enter a value between 0 and 25 (percent) using the numeric keypad.

 Press Enter

Single or Continuous Measure

This setting determines whether the FieldFox measures continuously or only once each time the

Single

button is pressed. Use Single to conserve battery power or to allow you to save or analyze a specific measurement.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

How to set Single or Continuous

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then choose one of the following: o

Single

Automatically sets Continuous OFF and causes FieldFox to make

ONE measurement, then hold for the next Single key press. When a data trace is displayed, the entire trace is measured, then holds. The

Hold

annotation changes to an arrow

-->

while the measurement occurs. o

Continuous

Makes continuous measurements. This is the typical setting when battery power is not critical.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

You can also use Run / Hold +/- to toggle between Single and Continuous.

Resolution (Number of Data Points)

Data points are individual measurements that are made and plotted across the Xaxis to form a trace. Select more data points to increase measurement resolution.

However, more data points also takes more time to complete an entire measurement sweep.

When the Resolution is changed after a calibration is performed, the cal becomes

interpolated. Learn more on page 64.

How to set Resolution

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then

Resolution

 Then choose from the following:

101 |201 | 401 | 601 | 801 | 1001 | 1601 | 4001 | 10001

 Using SCPI, Resolution can be set to ANY number of points between 3 and

10001. See the Programming Guide at www.agilent.com/find/fieldsfoxsupport

Sweep Time

The fastest possible sweep time is always used as the default setting. Use the Min

Swp Time setting to slow the sweep time when measuring long lengths of cable.

Learn more at the FieldFox Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

The actual sweep time is shown on the FieldFox screen. See the Screen Tour on

page 19. To increase the sweep time, enter a value that is higher than the actual

sweep time. The increase will not be exactly the amount that you enter, as the actual sweep time is the composite of many factors.

Measurement speed specifications do NOT apply in Temperature Control Mode.

Learn more on page 14.

How to set Sweep Time

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then

Min Swp Time

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad.



Press a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20.

Output Power

Set the power level out of the FieldFox to High, Low, or manually set power level to a value between High and Low.

For best measurement accuracy, use the Manual power setting at -15 dBm. After calibration, the power level can be decreased for amplifiers, or increased for higher dynamic range.

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode 47

48

How to set Output Power

Output power is NOT leveled with any of the power settings:

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Output Power

High (Default setting) Sets output power to the maximum achievable power

at all displayed frequencies. Please see the FieldFox Specifications (page 195)

for expected power levels. o

Low Sets output power to approximately –27 dBm, o

Man Set output power to an arbitrary value, o

Then press

Nominal Power

o o

Then enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

Press

Enter

System Impedance (Z0)

To accurately view data presented in Smith Chart format, first set the System

Impedance.

Learn how to select Smith Chart format on page 42.

Learn how to make 75Ω measurements at the FieldFox Supplemental Online

Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

How to set System Impedance

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Settings

 Then scroll to System Z0 and press

Edit

 Then type either 50 or 75 and press

Enter

Port Extensions

Port extensions allow you to electrically move the calibration reference plane on port 1 after you have performed a calibration.

Phase measurements, and therefore Port Extensions, are NOT available on port

Why use Port Extensions

Use port extensions if you are unable to perform a calibration directly at your device because the location is not accessible. Perform a calibration at a convenient place, then use port extensions to compensate for the time delay

(phase shift) to the desired reference plane. On the FieldFox, port extensions does not compensate for the loss of the additional electrical length, nor any mismatch errors beyond the calibration reference plane.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Also use port extensions if you have already performed a calibration, and then decide that you need to add a length of transmission line in the measurement configuration. Use port extensions to "tell" the FieldFox that you have added the length to a specific port.

With S11, the FieldFox doubles the port extension valued that you enter to account for the additional delay in the forward and reverse directions.

Port extensions and Electrical Delay differ in the following ways:

 Electrical delay is applied to a specific trace.

 Port extensions are applied to specific ports.

Port Extensions and Electrical Delay can be set independently. When both are

set, the delay adds together. Learn more about Electrical Delay on page 44.

How to apply Port Extensions

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Port Extensions

 Then

Port Extensions ON

 Then

Port1 Extension

 Then enter time value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. Press

Enter

or select a seconds (time) multiplier.

You can also set Port Extensions by pressing Meas Setup 4 then

Calibration

(settings).

While setting Port Extension, the physical length of the extension, at the current

Velocity Factor setting, is visible to the right (red box in above image).

Velocity Factor

The electrical delay or port extension value is entered as delay, or electrical

length, in units of time.

Entering the velocity factor causes the FieldFox to accurately display the equivalent physical length in meters (NOT available in feet) that corresponds to the entered electrical delay.

Velocity factor is the ratio of the velocity of wave propagation in a coaxial cable to the velocity of wave propagation in free space. This velocity depends on the relative permittivity of the cable dielectric ( r

Velocity factor = 1/sqrt(εr)

VF = 0.66 corresponds to wave propagation through a polyethylene dielectric.

VF = 1.0 (default setting) corresponds to wave propagation through free space (a vacuum).

How to set Velocity Factor

 Press Meas Setup 4.

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode 49

 Then

Port Extensions

 Then

Velocity Factor

 Then enter a value between 0.1 and 1 using the numeric keypad, then press

Enter

You can also set Velocity Factor by pressing Meas Setup 4 then

Calibration

(settings).

S21 Transmission Measurements

An S21 Transmission measurement, available with option 110, is used to measure the loss through a DUT – or cable – over a specified frequency range.

The FieldFox signal source is transmitted out the RF OUT connector, through the

DUT, and into the RF IN connector. Both ends of the DUT must be connected to the FieldFox.

An S21 measurement is exactly the same measurement as “2-Port Insertion Loss” in CAT Mode.

NOTE A Normalization Cal is REQUIRED when making 2-port CAT or NA measurements.

For highest accuracy, when measuring the DUT also attach any cable or adapter that was used in the normalization cal.

How to make an S21 Transmission Measurement

1. Press Mode then

then

S21 Transmission

2. Press Freq/Dist and enter

Start

and

Stop

frequency values of the measurement.

3. Press Sweep 3 then select a

Resolution

setting.

4. Press Cal 5 then press

Normalization

. Perform normalization as explained

on page 63.

5. Connect the DUT and view the transmission measurement results.

When measuring very long lengths of cable, it may be necessary to increase the

sweep time. Learn how on page 26. Learn why at the FieldFox Supplemental

Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

Increase Dynamic Range

Dynamic range is the difference between maximum input power to the FieldFox receiver (without compressing the receiver), and the minimum measurable power

(noise floor). Measurement accuracy is increased when the DUT response is at least 10 dB above the noise floor. For a measurement to be valid, input signals must be within these boundaries.

50 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

The following settings will increase the dynamic range of your NA mode measurement.

 Increase Power Level: Press Meas 4 then

Output Power High

 Lower the IFBW: Press BW 2 then

IF BW

 Increase Averaging: Press BW 2 then

Average

The following procedure MAY increase the dynamic range of your NA mode measurement. The results you see will depend on the performance of your DUT.

With an S21 trace active:

1. With RF OUT (port-2) open, press Trace 6 then

Math and Memory

then

Data->Mem

2. Re-connect the DUT.

3. Press

Data Math

then

Data-Mem

NA (Network Analyzer) Mode 51

Time Domain - Option 010

With NA Mode, Time Domain (Opt 010), frequency information is used to calculate and display measurements with time as the horizontal display axis. The response values appear separated in time allowing a different perspective of the test device's performance and limitations.

NA Mode settings that are NOT unique to Time Domain are documented in the

NA Mode chapter on page 39.

In this Chapter

Overview ................................................................. 52

Time Domain (Transform) Settings

Transform Settings Table ..................................... 53

Frequency Range and Points ............................... 54

Stimulus (Mode) ..................................................... 54

Set Frequency Lowpass ....................................... 54

Start/Stop Time ...................................................... 54

Distance Units ........................................................ 55

Window Layout ...................................................... 55

Transform Window ................................................ 55

Line Loss and Velocity Factor ............................. 56

Data Chain .............................................................. 57

Trace Settings

Transform Enable .................................................. 57

Gating Enable ......................................................... 57

Gating Settings

Start, Stop, Center, and Span Gate Times ......... 58

Gating Type ............................................................. 58

Overview

In normal NA Mode operation, the FieldFox measures the characteristics of a test device as a function of frequency. With Time Domain (opt 010), frequency information is used to calculate the inverse Fourier transform and display measurements with time on the horizontal display axis. The response values appear separated in time, allowing a different perspective of the test device's performance and limitations.

The graphic below compares the same cable reflection measurement data in both the frequency and time domain. The cable has two bends. Each bend creates a mismatch or change in the line impedance.

52 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

The frequency domain of an S11 measurement shows reflections caused by mismatches in the cable. It is impossible to determine where the mismatches physically occur in the cable.

The Time Domain response shows both the location and the magnitude of each mismatch. The responses indicate that the second cable bend is the location of a significant mismatch. This mismatch can be gated out, allowing you to view the frequency domain response as if the mismatch were not present. Learn more

about gating on page 58.

Markers that are created on a Time Domain trace can be used to pinpoint the distance of the mismatch from the reference plane.

For more information on Time Domain theory, see http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/5989-5723EN.pdf

Time Domain (Transform) Settings

You can set and view most of the Time Domain settings on the Transform

Settings table.

Transform Settings Table

The following settings are listed in the order they appear on the Transform

Settings menu selection.

How to make settings on the Transform settings table

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Transform

 Then

Transform Settings

 Press

Next Page

and

Previous Page

to view all settings.

 To change a setting: o

Use the ▲|▼ arrows or rotary knob to highlight a setting. o

Numeric settings can be changed by pressing numbers using the numeric keypad. Then press Enter or select a suffix if available. o

Some settings allow you to press

Edit

to toggle the value. Other settings require that you then press a softkey to change the value. o

When finished changing a value, press

Done Edit

 Press

Dock Window

to relocate the Settings table to a position relative to the trace window. The Dock Window setting persists through a Preset. Choose from the following: o

Full (Default setting) Only the Settings table is shown on the screen. The trace window is temporarily not shown.

Time Domain - Option 010 53

54

NOTE o

Left The Settings table is shown to the left of the trace window. o

Bottom The Settings table is shown below the trace window.

 When finished changing ALL settings, press

Done

to save your settings.

Frequency Range and Points

Like CAT mode, all Time Domain measurements are made in the frequency domain and, using Inverse Fourier Transform (IFT), time is calculated. Select the frequency range from which Time Domain measurements are calculated.

Increasing the data points will improve measurement resolution. However, more data points will usually result in slower sweep updates.

Set frequency range and points before selecting Stimulus Mode.

Stimulus (Mode)

There are three variations on how the Time Domain transform algorithm is applied to the frequency domain measurement. Each method has a unique application.



Lowpass Impulse

- Highest resolution. Most useful for seeing small responses in devices that pass low frequencies, such as cables.



Lowpass Step

- Easiest to identify inductive and capacitive discontinuities in devices that pass low frequencies such as cables.

In both Lowpass modes, frequencies down to DC and negative frequencies are extrapolated. Therefore, when either Lowpass mode is selected, Set Freq.Low

Pass is automatically applied to adjust the start frequency. Learn more about Set

Frequency Lowpass below.

When the Start Frequency or resolution is changed AFTER selecting a Lowpass mode, then Stimulus mode is set to Band Pass and Transform is disabled.



Band pass

- Easiest method - can be used with any frequency sweep. Most useful for measuring band limited devices such as filters and DC blocked cables. This mode does NOT show capacitive and inductive reactance. For the same frequency span and number of points, band pass mode has twice the impulse width, which hides closely spaced responses degrading the response resolution.

Set Frequency Lowpass

This setting is made automatically when either Lowpass mode is selected.

USE ONLY IN LOW PASS MODES. When this setting is made, the start frequency is adjusted to be harmonics of the start frequency. Start frequency is computed by the following formula:

Low Pass Start Frequency = Stop Frequency / Number of points.

Start/Stop Time

The following settings adjust the display resolution, allowing you to zoom IN or

OUT on a response. When the start or stop time is updated, they may be automatically adjusted to limit the display to one alias-free response on either side of zero time.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

How to set Start and Stop time

 Press Measure 4

 Then

Transform

 Then

Transform Start Stop

 Then choose from: o

Start

Sets the transform start time that is displayed on the FieldFox screen. o

Stop

Sets the transform stop time that is displayed on the FieldFox screen.

Zero (0) seconds is always the calibration reference plane. Negative values are useful if moving the reference plane.

Distance Units

When markers are present on a Time Domain trace, marker X-axis values are shown both in units of time (seconds) and distance. Select the units in which the marker distance data is presented.

Distance Units are also used when setting Time Domain Line Loss. Learn more

on page 56.

Choose from: m (meters), or Feet.

Window Layout

This setting is used to create additional traces, or select a new layout for traces that are already created,

Choose from: x1, x2, x2H, x3H, x4.

Learn more about multi-trace configurations on page 40.

Transform Window

There are abrupt transitions in a frequency domain measurement at the start and stop frequencies, causing overshoot and ringing in a Time Domain response.

The Window setting reduces the abruptness of the frequency domain transitions.

This causes you to make a tradeoff in the Time Domain response.

The Window setting applies to ALL traces.

Time Domain - Option 010 55

56

NOTE

How to make Window setting

 Press Measure 4

 Then

Transform

 Then

More

 Then

Transform Window

 A settings table appears that allows you to navigate and select the following settings. These settings are made exactly like those made on the Transform

Settings table. Learn how on page 53.

Any of the following four methods can be used to make this same Window setting. Impulse Width values are calculated from the frequency span and Kaiser

Beta value.

1. Window Min Medium Max

2. Percent

3. Kaiser Beta

4. Impulse

Width

100.455 ps

6.50

168.501 ps

100

13.00

231.284 ps

Line Loss and Velocity Factor

By default, the FieldFox does NOT correct Time Domain measurements to account for the inherent loss of a cable. However, to make more accurate measurements, Line Loss and Velocity Factor should be considered.

About Velocity Factor and Line Loss

Line Loss is specified in dB/m (or ft). In addition to the length of the cable, loss is also directly proportional to the frequency of the signal that passes through the cable.

The following is an example showing how Line Loss works:

The DUT is a 100 meter transmission cable. The Line Loss value is .1 dB/meter. This means that a signal traveling ONE WAY through the cable will lose 10 dB of power (100 m * .1dB/m). Because the FieldFox performs this measurement with 1 port, the test signal travels down the cable and then back, for a total loss of 20 dB.

For the purpose of illustrating this point, connect an OPEN to the end of the cable – a maximum-sized fault - for 100% reflection of the 300 MHz test signal.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

With compensation for the loss using the manufacturer’s specification, the

FieldFox compensates the trace as though the signal traveling through 100 meters was increased by +20 dB. Therefore the response will show 0 dB for 100% reflection.

Data Chain

This setting, available only on the Table Settings, reverts to the default when the

FieldFox is Preset. Choose from the following:

 Standard – The normal FieldFox data processing chain. Transform calculations are performed AFTER error correction and trace math.

 8510 – The data processing chain used by the Agilent 8510 network analyzer.

Transform calculations are performed BEFORE error correction and trace math. Learn more at the FieldFox Supplemental Online Help website: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

Trace Settings

The following two settings apply to specific traces.

Transform Enable

Enable Time Domain transform for the specific trace.

 Select the trace.

 Press Measure 4

 Then

Transform

 Then choose from: o

Trace displays Time Domain data. o

Off

Trace displays frequency domain data.

Gate Enable

Enable Gating for the specific trace.

 Select the trace.

 Press Measure 4

 Then

Transform

 Then choose from: o

Trace displays Time Domain data. o

Off

Trace displays frequency domain data.

Time Domain - Option 010 57

58

Gating

Perhaps the most beneficial feature of Time Domain transform is the Gating function. When viewing the Time Domain response of a device, the gating function can be used to "virtually" remove undesired responses. You can then simultaneously view a frequency domain trace as if the undesired response did not exist. This allows you to characterize devices without the effects of external devices such as connectors or adapters.

Gating is best performed while viewing a Time Domain trace. Then, either disable

Transform, or separately view a frequency domain trace to see the trace with the gated effects removed.

NOTE When a discontinuity in a test device reflects energy, that energy will not reach subsequent discontinuities. This can "MASK", or hide, the true response which would have occurred if the previous discontinuity were not present. The Gating feature does NOT compensate for this.

How to make Time Domain Gating settings

 Press Measure 4

 Then

Transform

 Then

Gating

 Then choose from: o

Gating is being performed. o

Off

Gating is NOT being performed.

Start, Stop, Center, and Span Gate Times

These settings specify the time in the trace to be gated (in or out). The gate times can be specified using either Start and Stop or Center and Span.



Press

Gating Start/Stop



A settings table appears that allows you to navigate and select the following settings. These settings are made exactly like those made on the Transform

Settings table. Learn how on page 53.

Gating Type

This setting defines the type of filtering that will be performed for the gating function. The gate start and stop flags on the display point toward the part of the trace you want to keep.

 Choose from the following: o

Bandpass

- KEEPS the responses within the Gating Start and Stop times. o

Notch

- REMOVES the responses within the Gating Start and Stop times.

Gating Shape

This setting defines the filter characteristics of the gate function. Choose from

Minimum, Normal, Wide, Maximum.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Time domain Gate Shape setting

Gate Shape

Minimum

Normal

Wide

Maximum

Passband

Ripple

0.1 dB

0.01 dB

Sidelobe

Levels

-48 dB

-68 dB

-57 dB

-70 dB

Cutoff Time

1.4/Freq Span

2.8/Freq Span

4.4/Freq Span

12.7/Freq Span

Minimum Gate

Span

2.8/Freq Span

5.6/Freq Span

8.8/Freq Span

25.4/Freq Span

Cutoff time is the time between the stop time (-6 dB on the filter skirt) and the peak of the first sidelobe.

 T

is the gate span, which is equal to the stop time minus the start time.

 T

is the time between the edge of the passband and the 6 dB point, representing the cutoff rate of the filter.

 T

is the time between the 6 dB point and the edge of the gate stopband.

For all filter shapes T

is equal to T the center time.

, and the filter is the same on both sides of

Minimum gate span is twice the cutoff time. Each gate shape has a minimum recommended gate span for proper operation. This is a consequence of the finite cutoff rate of the gate. If you specify a gate span that is smaller than the minimum span, the response will show the following effects:

 distorted gate shape that has no passband

 distorted shape

 incorrect indications of start and stop times

 may have increased sidelobe levels.

Time Domain - Option 010 59

Calibration for CAT, NA, and VVM Modes

The FieldFox performs a calibration automatically when powered ON and when

Preset is performed. In addition, calibration can be performed manually. Key presses are identical in all of these Modes.

In this Chapter

Why and When to Calibrate ................................. 60

Definitions .............................................................. 60

Preset Calibration .................................................. 61

QuickCal .................................................................. 61

O,S,L Calibration ................................................... 62

Normalize ................................................................ 63

Compatible Mode Calibrations ............................ 64

Compatible 1-port and 2-port Calibrations ....... 65

Save a Calibration ................................................. 65

Verify Calibration .................................................. 65

Calibration Method Summary ............................. 66

See Also

Making 75 ohm Measurements at the FieldFox Supplemental Online Help: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/FieldFox.htm

Why and When to Calibrate

There are well-defined and understood systematic errors that are measured and calculated during the calibration process. These errors are caused by leakage signals inside the FieldFox, by the frequency response of the FieldFox receivers, and by reflections inside the FieldFox that interact with the DUT. After calibration, these errors are removed from subsequent measurements.

To maintain highest measurement accuracy, perform a new calibration when any of the following changes occur:



When any of the following measurement settings change: Frequency Range,

Power Level, and Resolution. Therefore, make these measurement settings before calibrating. Increased Averaging and higher Resolution cause slower sweeps and slower calibration times. Learn about Interpolation and

Questionable Accuracy on page 64.



When the FieldFox temperature changes more than about 10°F (5°C). Learn

how to monitor the internal temperature on page 14.



When the connection to the DUT changes, requiring a different jumper cable or adapter.

Definitions

DUT (Device Under Test) is the cable, antenna, transmission line, or anything else that is connected to the FieldFox that is to be measured.

60 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

OPEN, SHORT, and LOAD are calibration standards. These are precision components that are used during calibration and to terminate a DUT during some measurements. When an RF signal ‘hits’ these components, the signals are reflected in a predictable manner.

 A SHORT and OPEN standard both cause 100% of an RF signal to be reflected.

The difference between these two standards is what happens to the phase of the reflected signal, which is beyond the scope of this discussion. Although an

OPEN standard is a precision component, simply leaving nothing connected at the end of a cable can be a reasonable substitute for an OPEN.

 A LOAD standard completely absorbs the incident signal and NO signal is reflected back to the source.

Calibration Reference Plane is the point at which cal standards are connected during a calibration. This can be either the FieldFox RF OUT connector, or at the end of a jumper cable or adapter.

Preset Calibration (also known as CalReady)

Every FieldFox is factory calibrated at the RF Out connector over the entire frequency range of the FieldFox using a number of data points that allows reasonable interpolation over the FieldFox frequency range.

This CalReady condition allows you to start using your FieldFox immediately if you are measuring a device that is directly connected to the RF Out test port.

CalReady applies to the entire frequency range of the FieldFox. It can be used to check the integrity of the jumper cable.

Cal ON

is shown on the screen when powered ON or Preset.

When measuring a DUT using a jumper cable or adapter - NOT a direct connection to the RF Out connector – then a QuickCal or O,S,L Cal is recommended.

Learn how to see when your factory CalReady calibration was performed on page

167.

QuickCal

QuickCal is ideal for a quick and simple calibration of the measurement when using a jumper cable or adapter to connect the DUT to the FieldFox test ports.

QuickCal corrects for phase shift, time delay, and loss of adapters or jumper cables.

QuickCal does not require a specific Cal Kit and is a very simple calibration. If the highest accuracy is required, a mechanical calibration with a high quality calibration kit is recommended.

If the DUT has 3.5 mm-female or SMA-female connectors, QuickCal is NOT recommended.

How to perform a QuickCal

Press Esc at any time during the QuickCal to stop the calibration.

 In CAT, NA, or VVM Mode, press Cal 5.

 Then (if necessary) press

Cal Type

to see

[QuickCal]

 Then

Start Cal

Calibration for CAT, NA, and VVM Modes 61

62

NOTE

Step 1

1. Disconnect the DUT from the FieldFox.

2. If a jumper cable or adapter is required to connect the DUT to the FieldFox, connect those components to the FieldFox RF Out connector NOW. The effects of those components will be measured and removed during the calibration, and only the effects of the DUT will be displayed in the measurement results. These should be high-quality components!

3. Do NOT connect anything at the point where the DUT connects.

4. Then press

QuickCal

Step 2

Connect a Load standard at the point where the DUT will be connected and press

Measure

under the following conditions:

When a jumper cable has too much loss. If a ‘Cal Failed’ error appears and you skipped the Load measurement, then perform the Cal again but measuring the Load.

When your DUT has high return loss such as the reject band of a filter. Then measuring the load improves accuracy. Even with the optional Load, phase accuracy begins to degrade when the return loss is greater than about 20dB.

Press

Skip Step

in all other cases and when making DTF measurements.

Measuring a load would do little to improve accuracy.

 Press

Finish



Cal ON Q

is shown on the screen when a QuickCal is correcting the measurement.

Using QuickCal with a Long Jumper Cable

QuickCal requires sufficient frequency resolution to adequately characterize the jumper cable (cable between the instrument port and the DUT). QuickCal may automatically acquire more points for longer jumper cables, resulting in longer calibration times.

QuickCal is also limited in how much jumper cable loss it can tolerate. If

QuickCal without the load is failing, then measure the load during the QuickCal to see if that resolves the issue.

O,S,L Cal

An OPEN, SHORT, LOAD Cal is performed using discrete standards from a Cal

Kit. Several Cal Kit definitions are built into the FieldFox firmware.

Visit www.agilent.com/find/fieldfoxsupport to see a complete list of supported

Cal Kits. Also at this website, download DataLink software that allows you to edit Cal Kit definitions or add a new Cal Kit.

O,S,L Cal is extremely accurate when performed using the recommended Cal Kits with standards that are in clean and good repair, and when using correct connection procedures.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

CAL ON U

is shown on the screen when an O,S,L Cal is correcting the measurement.

How to perform O,S,L Cal

Before performing an O,S,L Cal, set the Measurement type, Frequency Range,

Power Level, and Resolution of the measurement. The calibration will remain highly accurate until these settings change, or the physical connection to the

FieldFox changes.

 Disconnect the DUT from the FieldFox.

 If a jumper cable or adapter is required to connect the DUT to the FieldFox, then connect those components to the FieldFox RF Out connector NOW. The effects of those components will be measured and removed during the calibration, and only the effects of the DUT will be displayed in the measurement results. These should be high-quality components!

 In CAT or NA Mode, press Cal 5.

 Then (if necessary) press

Cal Type

to choose

O,S,L

 Then (if necessary) press

Connector Type

 Then using the ▲|▼ arrows or the rotary knob, select the connector type and gender of your DUT port to be measured and press Enter. This will determine the type and gender of cal kit to use. For example, if a Type-N Male connector is used on the DUT port to be measured, then the Type-N Male standards

(OPEN, SHORT, AND LOAD) will ALL be connected in place of the DUT during the calibration.

 If there is more than one Cal Kit for the selected connector type, press

Cal Kit

and select the correct Cal Kit to use.

NOTE Calibration kit definitions are unique to each connector type and connector sex.

They must be correctly applied to obtain the most accurate calibration.

 Then press

Start Cal

 Press

Open

Short

, and

Load

in any order.

 Connect the corresponding standard at the point where the DUT will be connected, then press

Measure

 Measure each of the three standards. Standards can be measured again at any time if you feel a standard was not connected securely.

 Press

Finish

to complete the O,S,L calibration.

Normalize

Normalize is used to calibrate a 2-port Insertion Loss measurement (CAT Mode) and a S21 Transmission measurement (NA Mode). One of these measurements must be selected before performing a Normalize Cal.

NOTE A Normalization Cal is REQUIRED to make accurate 2-port Transmission or

Insertion Loss measurements.

How to perform a Normalization

 Press Cal 5.

Calibration for CAT, NA, and VVM Modes 63

64

NOTE



Cal Type [Normalize]

should appear.

 Connect a short, high-quality, phase stable cable between the FieldFox RF OUT and RF IN connectors.

All subsequent insertion loss measurements are made relative to the insertion loss of this cable. For example, if you use a Normalization cable with 1 dB of loss, then after pressing Normalize, the display will show 0 dB of loss with this cable in place. Therefore, for highest accuracy, when measuring the DUT also attach the cable that was used in the normalization cal.

 Press

Start Cal

then

Thru

then

Measure

 Press

Finish

 Connect the DUT between the RF OUT and RF IN connectors.

A Normalization cal will NOT be interpolated if the Resolution or Frequency range changes.

CAL ON U

is shown on the screen when a Normalization Cal is correcting the measurement.

Interpolation

Highest measurement accuracy is achieved when the measurement type, frequency range, power level, and resolution settings remain the same during the measurement as when the FieldFox was calibrated. If these settings change after a calibration, the FieldFox will interpolate the calibration so that VERY accurate measurements continue to be made.

Interpolated Calibrations are only slightly less accurate than a calibration performed at the measurement settings. For example, if frequency settings change after a Preset Calibration is performed, the Preset Calibration is only slightly less accurate. Learn more about the relative accuracy of FieldFox

calibrations on page 66.

When a calibration is being interpolated, an asterisk is added to the screen annotation as follows:

Cal ON*

For highest accuracy: a new cal should be performed when the temperature changes more than about 10°F (5°C), or when the connection to the DUT requires a different jumper cable or adapters.

How to turn Error Correction OFF

“Error Correction” is applying the results of a calibration to a measurement.

Error Correction is automatically turned ON after a calibration. You could turn

Error Correction OFF in order to see the effects of a calibration on the measurement.

 Press Cal 5 then

Error Correction ON OFF

 Then

Exit

Esc

 Cal OFF

is shown on the screen when Correction is OFF.



Cal OFF*

is shown on the screen when switching from a 1-port measurement to a 2-port measurement or vice-versa. Calibration for the current measurement has NOT been performed.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Cal ON ? – Questionable Accuracy

If a change made by the user to the output power setting, or a change made automatically by the FieldFox firmware makes accurate calibration interpolation questionable, a question mark is added to the screen annotation for all calibration states (Ex:

Cal ON ?

). The resulting measurement accuracy depends on how much the setting has changed. For optimum accuracy, recalibrate using the new settings.

Compatible Mode Calibrations

Because CAT, NA, and VVM modes are very similar, a 1-port or 2-port calibration that is performed in one mode is automatically applied in the other modes. This occurs ONLY when modes have the same frequency data points, have the same

Power Level, and have the same IF BW. CAT Mode IF BW is 30 kHz and is NOT selectable.

Compatible 1-port and 2-port Calibrations

Typically, a 1-port calibration and a 2-port normalization can NOT be maintained at the same time. The most recently performed calibration will usually overwrite the other.



In CAT mode, the 1-port measurement is Return Loss or DTF, and the 2-port measurement is Insertion Loss.



In NA mode, the 1-port measurement is S11, and the 2-port measurement is

S21.

However, a 1-port calibration CAN coexist with a 2-port normalization ONLY when BOTH of the following conditions occur:

1. A 1-port Cal already exists, then a Normalization Cal is performed. They can

NOT be performed in the reverse order.

2. The Frequency Range, Resolution, Power (Hi/Low), and IF BW (in NA Mode) settings of the two calibrations are identical.

When both conditions occur, you can switch between the 1-port and the 2-port measurements, and both will remain fully calibrated.

In a DTF measurement, the frequency range over which the calibration is made can be viewed using the calculated Start and Stop Frequency on the Settings

page. Learn how to see this on page 37.

Save the Calibration

After performing any type of calibration, you can save the FieldFox settings along with the calibration into a STATE (*.sta) file. These settings and calibration

can then be recalled as necessary. Learn how on page 147.

Verifying Calibration and Jumper Cable Integrity

After calibrating, it is important to verify that the calibration is good. When using a jumper cable, also verify that the cable is of high quality.

Calibration for CAT, NA, and VVM Modes 65

66 Verify a Calibration

 Connect a LOAD standard at the calibration reference plane (where calibration standards were connected). This may be at the end of the jumper cable or at

FieldFox RF OUT connector.

 In CAT Mode, select a Return Loss measurement.

 In NA Mode, select a S11 Reflection with Log Mag format.

 Observe the trace on the FieldFox screen: o

Lower than 0 dB indicates a GOOD calibration. o

Higher than 0 dB indicates that you should recalibrate.

Verifying Phase Accuracy

 Connect a LOAD standard at the calibration reference plane (where calibration standards were connected).

 In NA Mode, select a S11 Reflection with Polar or Smith Chart format.

 Because all LOAD standards have delay, you should see a small amount of phase rotation as a function of frequency.

 In general, the measurement result should agree with the characteristics of the calibration standard.

Test the Jumper Cable

With the LOAD standard still connected, move the jumper cable while observing the trace.

 If the measurement trace is relatively stable, the jumper cable is of good quality.

 If you observe significant movement in the peaks of the measurement trace when moving the cable (>5 dB), the jumper cable may need to be replaced.

Calibration Method Summary

 O,S,L is ALWAYS the most accurate Cal method. The quality of an O,S,L Cal is completely dependent on the quality of the OPEN, SHORT, LOAD standards.

Use high quality standards to ensure the most accurate calibration.

 QuickCal is ideal for DTF measurements. QuickCal should be performed when good accuracy is required and when using a jumper cable or adapter. o

QuickCal is NOT recommended when the DUT has 3.5 mm-female or SMAfemale connectors. o

Even with the optional Load, phase accuracy begins to degrade when the return loss is greater than about 20dB.

 Preset Cal is ONLY useful for DUT connections made at the RF Out port and most accurate at room temperature.

 For highest accuracy, a new QuickCal or O,S,L Cal should be performed: o when the temperature changes more than about 10°F (5°C) o when the connection to the DUT requires a different jumper cable or adapters.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode

SA Mode measures signals at the RF IN port. The RF OUT connector is NOT used.

General purpose Spectrum Analyzer measurements are available with Option

230 or 231. SA measurements require NO calibration.

For a comprehensive SA Mode tutorial, see Spectrum Analysis Basics (App Note

150) at http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/5952-0292.pdf

SA display with markers

C arrier with 5 kHz frequency modulation and deviation of 1 kHz

In this Chapter

Frequency Range ................................................... 68

Radio Standard ...................................................... 70

Channel Selection .................................................. 71

Scale and Units ...................................................... 72

External Gain ......................................................... 73

Attenuation and Preamp Control ....................... 73

Check for Compressed Measurements ............... 75

Field Strength Measurements .............................. 75

Tune and Listen ..................................................... 78

Independent Source .............................................. 78

Resolution Bandwidth .......................................... 78

Video Bandwidth ................................................... 82

Sweep Type ............................................................. 82

Sweep Acquisition ................................................. 82

Zero Span Measurements ..................................... 84

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 67

68

Triggering ................................................................ 85

Single/Continuous/Restart .................................. 85

Points ....................................................................... 87

Trace Display States .............................................. 87

Average Type .......................................................... 88

Average Count ........................................................ 88

Detection Method ................................................... 89

Display Line ............................................................ 90

Noise Marker .......................................................... 90

Band/Interval Power Marker ............................... 91

Frequency Counter at Marker ............................. 92

Audio Beep at Marker Power .............................. 93

Channel Measurements ........................................ 93

Channel Power o

Occupied Bandwidth o

Adjacent Channel Power Ratio

See Also

Interference Analyzer (Opt 236)

Spectrogram Display .................................... 102

Waterfall Display........................................... 105

Record / Playback ......................................... 106

Optional settings

Markers .................................................................. 131

Limit Lines ............................................................ 141

Save Measurement Settings and Results ......... 147

SA Mode Settings

Select SA Mode before making any setting in this chapter.

Because there is no calibration, these settings can be made in any order.

How to select SA Mode

 Press Mode .

 Then

Frequency Range

The X-axis frequency range determines the frequencies that are measured for each sweep. The default Start frequency is 0 Hz. However, the Start frequency can be set as low as –100 MHz. The internal LO of the FieldFox can be seen at 0

Hz, which will mask signals that may be present.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE Although the start frequency can be set as low as -100 MHz, amplitude accuracy is specified above 2 MHz. Below 2 MHz, frequency accuracy is maintained, but amplitude accuracy is degraded.

The frequency range of the measurement can be changed using the following methods:

 Set Center and Span frequencies

 Set Start and Stop frequencies

 Toggle between Zero and Last selected span

 Set Full Span of the FieldFox



Using Channel selection. Learn how on page 71.



Using Marker -> Center (frequency). Learn how on page 135.

How to set Frequency Range

 Press Freq/Dist.



Then choose from the following: o

Center

and

Freq Span

frequencies. This is the most common method of entering frequency range. Enter the frequency of interest. The Center frequency is at the exact center of the X-axis. The Frequency Span places half of the frequency range on either side of center. When the Center and

Frequency Span values are entered, then the X-axis annotation on the screen shows the Center and Span frequencies. o

Start

and

Stop

frequencies. Start is the beginning of the X-axis and Stop is the end of the X-axis. When the Start and Stop frequencies are entered, then the X-axis annotation on the screen shows the Start and Stop frequencies.



Follow each of these by entering a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.



When using the ▲|▼ arrows, press Enter. The increment setting of the arrows is based on the current span. This can be changed in SA Mode. See How to

change frequency step size below.



After using the keypad, select a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier

abbreviations on page 20.

Two more ways to change the frequency range

 Press Freq/Dist.

 Then choose from the following: o

Zero/Last Span

Each key press toggles the frequency span between 0 Hz and the last specified frequency span. o

More

Then

Full Span

Selects the entire frequency span of the FieldFox. The

Center frequency is set automatically.

How to change frequency step size

When using the ▲|▼ arrows to change any of the frequency settings, the size of the frequency step can be changed.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 69

70

 Press Freq/Dist

 Then

More

 Then

CF Step Auto Man

Auto

Each press of the ▲|▼ arrows increments or decrements the value by

1/10 th

(one division) of the current frequency span. Note: To change this setting from Man to Auto, press CF Step twice. o

Man

Type a step size value using the numeric keypad, then select a

multiplier key. Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20.

Radio Standard

A Radio Standard is a collection of settings that are applied to the FieldFox for specific RF protocols. When a Radio Standard is applied, the FieldFox frequency and channel settings change to that of the standard.

By default, the FieldFox locates the center frequency of the standard in the middle of the screen and sets the frequency span to cover all of the Uplink and

Downlink frequencies. The selected Radio Standard name appears in the center of the screen below the X-axis.

After a Radio Standard has been selected, the frequency range can be changed by

selecting channel numbers rather than frequency. Learn how on page 71.

When a Channel Measurement is selected such as ACPR, other relevant settings will be changed such as Integration BW. Learn more about Radio Standards and

Channel Measurements on page 94.

How to select a Radio Standard

 Press Measure 1 OR Freq/Dist then

More

 Then

Radio Standard

 Then select a standard using the ▲|▼ arrows or rotary knob and press Enter.

Custom Radio Standards

Beginning with Rev A.05.50, your own custom Radio Standards can be imported into the FieldFox. Custom standards are created in *.csv (spreadsheet) format.

A template and instructions for creating your custom Radio Standard is at: www.agilent.com/find/fieldsfoxsupportReference/CustomRadioStandard.htm

Once imported, the *.csv file is stored in the FieldFox \User Data\ folder. The custom Radio Standards are read and presented at the top of the list of internal

Radio Standards.

How to Import and Delete a Custom Radio Standard

First, press Save/Recall and select the

Device

from which the Radio Standard will be read. Most likely this will be USB or SD Card.

 Press Measure 1 OR Freq/Dist then

More

 Then

Radio Standard

 Then

Import Radio Standards

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Note:

 Then select the *.csv file using the ▲|▼ arrows or rotary knob and press

Enter.

 Custom Radio Standards can be removed from the FieldFox by selecting

Measure 1 then

Radio Standard

then

Delete Radio Standard.

 Then select the *.csv file to delete using the ▲|▼ arrows or rotary knob and press Enter.

To overwrite a custom standard that is already uploaded to the FieldFox, you must first delete the *.csv file from the FieldFox, then re-upload the file that contains the standard. A predefined internal standard (such as GSM 450) can

NOT be deleted from the FieldFox.

Channel Selection

After a Radio Standard has been selected, the frequency range can be changed by selecting channel numbers rather than frequency. Once enabled, the channel number is appended to the X-axis frequency range.

How to enable Channel selection

 Press Freq/Dist

 Then

More

 Then

Unit Freq Chan

How to change the Channel Number of the measurement

With Unit =

Chan

the FieldFox will NOT allow you to specify channels outside of the selected Radio Standard.

 Press Freq/Dist

 Then choose from the following: o

Center Channel

Places the center frequency of the specified channel in the middle of the X-axis. o

Start Channel

Places the lowest frequency of the specified channel at the beginning of the X-axis. o

Stop Channel

Places the highest frequency of the specified channel at the end of the X-axis. o

Freq Span

Changes the span of frequencies while the center frequency remains unchanged. o

Follow each of the above settings by entering a value using the numeric keypad or the rotary knob. o

Use the ▲|▼ arrows to increment the channel number by an amount specified by the Channel Step value (see below). o

Then press Enter.

Select either Uplink or Downlink Frequencies

Press

Chan Direction

to toggle between

Uplink

and

Downlink

. If either of these selections is not available, then the selected Radio Standard does not contain those frequencies.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 71

Channel number X-axis annotation

72

 Dn indicates Downlink frequencies.

 Up (not shown) indicates Uplink frequencies

 (−) indicates that the lowest frequency in the channel (128) is at the left edge of the screen.

 (+) indicates that the highest frequency in the channel (130) is at the right edge of the screen.

 When Center Channel or Freq Span is specified, the X-axis shows the Center

Freq (Channel) and Frequency Span.

 When Start or Stop Channel is specified, the X-axis shows the Start Freq

(Channel) and Stop Freq (Channel).

Change Channel Step Size (Optional)

This setting allows you to use the ▲|▼ arrows to increment the channel number by the specified value.

 Press

Channel Step

 Enter a step value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. Then press Enter .

Scale and Units

Adjust the Y-axis scale to see the relevant portions of the data trace.

The Y-axis is divided into 10 graticules. A Reference Level is shown on the screen as a solid horizontal bar that can be placed at any graticule.

When RF Attenuation set to Auto, the RF Attenuation is coupled to Reference

Level.

How to set Scale

Press Scale / Amptd . Then choose from the following:



Scale Type [current setting]

Log

Logarithmic scale (default setting). The Y-axis reference line represents the specified absolute Reference Level in the current Unit selection. Y-axis graticules show dB below or above the reference line. o

Lin

Linear scale. The Y-axis reference line represents the specified absolute

Reference Level in the current Unit selection. Y-axis graticules show percent of Reference Level (%) below or above the reference line.

 Manually set Scale, Reference Level, and Reference Position.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Scale

Manually adjust the scale per division to view specific areas of the current trace. Enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. Then press Enter. o

Ref Level

Manually set the value of the reference line. Enter a negative value by pressing Run/Hold (+/-) either before or after typing a value. This can also change the RF Attenuation setting. See Attenuation Control –

Auto. o

Ref Position

Manually set the position of the reference line. Values must be between 0 (TOP line) and 10 (BOTTOM line). Default position is zero (top). o

Press

More

, then

Autoscale

Automatically adjusts the Y-axis to comfortably fit the Min and Max amplitude of the trace on the screen.

How to set Y-axis Units

The Unit setting appears for the reference line, marker readouts, and trigger level. All Unit choices are available in both Log and Linear Scale Types.

The UNIT setting survives Mode Preset, but NOT Preset.

 Press Scale / Amptd, then

More

, then

Unit

 Then choose from the following: o

dBm (default setting), dBmV (dB milli Volts), dBuV (dB microVolts), W

(watts), V (volts), A (amps), dBmA (dB milliAmps), dBuA (dB microAmps).

Antenna correction units are available ONLY by loading or editing an Antenna

file that contains the desired units setting. Learn more on page 76.

External Gain

When using an external amplifier or attenuator, the SA Mode trace amplitude values can be offset to compensate for the effect of the external device. This effectively moves the reference plane of the SA measurement port out to just beyond the external device. For example, when using an external preamp with gain of +10 dB, enter this value for External Gain, and the data trace across the displayed frequency span will be adjusted down by 10 dB.

When RF Atten is set to Auto, you may see a change in the RF Attenuation value.

This is an attempt to measure the signal at top of screen (the Reference Level) without overloading the SA first mixer.

How to set External Gain

 Press Scale/Amptd.

 Then

More

 Then

External Gain

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob

(positive for gain; negative for loss). Values less than 5 dB must be typed using the numeric keypad. Then press Enter

ExtGain xx dB is shown at the top of the screen.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 73

WARNING

Attenuation Control

Both the RF Attenuation and Pre Amp functions control the power level into the

SA.

When too much power is present at the RF IN port,

ADC Over Range

appears on the FieldFox screen. This does not necessarily mean that damage has occurred, but that the measurement is probably compressed.

When high power levels are present at the RF IN connector, internal attenuation can be switched in to keep the FieldFox receiver from compressing. At extremely high power levels, use external attenuation to protect the internal circuitry from being damaged.

The FieldFox can be damaged with too much power.

RF Damage Level: +27 dBm

DC Damage Level: ±50 VDC

The displayed power level is automatically adjusted for RF Attenuation. As the attenuation value changes, the displayed power level should NOT change.

How to set Attenuation

The default Attenuation setting is 10 dB. This value can be changed from 0 to 31 dB in 1 dB steps.

 Press Scale/Amptd.

 Then

RF Atten Auto Man



Auto

RF Attenuation is set by adjusting the Reference Level. As the Reference

Level is lowered, for example from –10 dB to –30 dB, the FieldFox assumes that you are looking at low-level signals. The RF Attenuation value is automatically lowered in 5 dB steps to allow low-level signals to be viewed.

The RF Attenuation value is never automatically lowered below 5 dB.



Man

RF Attenuation is set manually. Enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. Values less than 5 dB must be typed using the numeric keypad. Then press Enter

#Atten xx dB is shown at the top of the screen. (#) means manual setting.

Preamplifier Control (Opt 235)

When very low-level signals are analyzed, an internal preamplifier can be used to boost the signal level by approximately 22 dB. The gain of the preamp is NOT adjustable. The displayed signal level is automatically adjusted for the increase in system gain.

How to control the Preamp

By default, the preamp is OFF.

 Press Scale/Amptd.

 Then

Preamp ON OFF

The underlined setting is the current setting. When ON,

is shown to the left of the graticules on the display.

74 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Check for Compressed Measurements

Compression occurs when too much power into an amplifier causes it to no longer amplify in a linear manner. When too much power goes into the FieldFox

RF IN connector, the amplifiers in the SA receiver compress and signal power will not be displayed accurately. This can occur even if

ADC Over Range

is not displayed. Increase the RF Attenuation value to prevent the SA receiver from being compressed.

How to Check for a Compressed Measurement

 Using a marker at the signal peak, make note of the signal power level.

 Increase the RF Attenuation level by 5 dB.

If the signal level does NOT change, then NO compression exists. This indicates that the signal is in the linear region of the FieldFox receiver.

If the signal level DOES increase, then the receiver was compressed. Set the

RF Attenuation value at the setting when further increases no longer result in an increase in the displayed power level.

Field Strength Measurements

To measure the strength of any signal transmitted through the air, an antenna must be connected to the FieldFox. The Field Strength feature allows you to enter the frequency response of the receiving antenna (the Antenna Factor) and associated cabling, and then have amplitude corrections automatically compensate the displayed trace for that response.

Field Strength Measurements

Trace 1 - Corrected trace with antenna factor. (Antenna = ON, Apply Corr = ON)

Trace 2

- (View) Uncorrected trace (Apply Corr = OFF)

Red Trace

- Current correction factor. See below.

 Learn how to set Y-Axis Units on page 72.

 Use a Band Power marker to measure total power over a range of frequencies.

Learn how on page 141.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 75

How to select correction for Field Strength measurements

The Antenna and Cable correction data survives a Mode Preset and Preset.

All Correction ON/OFF states survive a Mode Preset, but NOT a Preset.



Press Scale/Amptd.



Then

More



Then

Corrections



Then choose from the following: o

Apply Corrections ON OFF

Turn ON and OFF correction for all settings o

Antenna ON OFF

Turn ON and OFF Antenna correction. o

Edit/Save/Recall Antennas

Recall or edit an Antenna Correction table. See below. o

Cable ON OFF

Turn ON and OFF Cable correction. o

Edit/Save/Recall Cables

Recall or edit a Cable Correction table. See below. o

View Corrections ON OFF

Turn ON and OFF

Red Trace

- Antenna/Cable corrections.

Using the Antenna/Cable Editor

The Antenna Editor and the Cable Editor menus are identical. Both tables include header information, and a Frequency/Value table.

76

FieldFox Antenna Editor

How to use the Antenna/Cable Editor

 Press

New

then

Yes

to clear all data from the existing Antenna or Cable table and reset header information to default settings.

 Then

Edit Antenna

Edit Cable

to open the Antenna / Cable Editor.

 Then use the ▲|▼ arrows to select a field, o

When editing Header information, press

Edit

then modify the selected field using the FieldFox labeler.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

When editing Frequency/Value pairs, enter numbers using the numeric keypad, and a frequency suffix when necessary. Then

Enter

. Positive Values are interpreted as LOSS for both Cable Loss and Antenna Gain Factor.

Learn more about “How the Freq/Value pairs are applied” below.

 Optionally choose from the following: o

Previous / Next Page

Quickly scrolls through pages of Freq/Value data. o

Add Data

Add a blank Freq/Value pair to the table, o

Delete/Clear

then: o

Delete Line

Remove the selected Freq/Value pair from the table. o

Clear All

then

Yes

Remove all Freq/Value pairs from the table and resets header information to default settings.

When the table edits are complete

 Press

Done

to closes the Antenna/Cable Editor.

 Press

Save Antenna

Save Cable

to saves your changes to the specified

Storage Device. Enter a filename using the FieldFox labeler (learn how on page

147). Learn more about Antenna and Cable files below.

 Press

Recall Antenna

Recall Cable

to load an Antenna or Cable file from the specified Storage Device.



Storage Device

Changes the device used to save or recall files. Choose from

Internal (default setting), USB (must be connected) or SD card. This is a different setting from the Save/Recall Storage Device setting.

About the Antenna/Cable header fields

 Description: Enter a description for the antenna or cable correction table. This is NOT the filename used to save the file.

 Antenna Unit: Units in which the measurement will be displayed. Select

NONE (default setting) to select from standard SA Units on the Scale menu.

Learn how on page 72.

Choose from: dB μV/m - (dB micro Volts per meter), dB μA/m - (dB micro

Amps per meter), dBG (gauss), dBpT (tesla).

 Freq Interpolation: Set to LINear and can NOT be edited.

About the Freq/Value pairs

 Positive Values are interpreted as LOSS for both Cable Loss and Antenna Gain

Factor.

 When one Freq/Value pair is entered, that correction value is applied to the entire displayed frequency span.

 When two or more Freq/Value pairs are entered, the data points between the lowest and highest frequencies are corrected. Linear interpolation is applied between frequencies when necessary.

About Antenna and Cable files

 Cable files are saved and recalled from the Cables folder.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 77

 Antenna files are saved and recalled from the Antenna folder.

 If the folder does not already exist on a USB or SD card, it is created automatically before storing the file.

 All SA Mode Antenna and Cable files are saved and recalled as *.csv files, which allows them to also be read by spreadsheet programs.

 The FieldFox can also read *.ANT (Antenna) files that were created from older

Agilent Spectrum Analyzers.

 Data Link does NOT support the SA Mode cable or antenna (*.csv or *.ANT) files. Learn more about Data Link software at: www.agilent.com/find/fieldfoxsupport

How to create a Cable file from an S21 (NA mode) measurement

1. Measure the S21 of a cable. Learn how in NA Mode on page 50.

2. Use Manage Folders to change the active folder to CABLES. Learn how to

manage folders on page 152.

3. Save the measurement as a *.csv file. Learn how on page 149.

4. Recall the *.csv file for correction.

Tune & Listen (AM/FM)

The Tune & Listen feature can be used to identify an interfering AM or FM signal.

The demodulated AM or FM signal can be heard through the internal speaker or through headphones using the 3.5 mm jack located on the FieldFox side panel.

The Tune & Listen tuner is separate from the SA display. This allows you to listen to one frequency while displaying a different range of frequencies. The

Tune & Listen measurement alternates between normal SA sweeps for the display and performing audio demodulation at the Tune Frequency. See the

Listen Time setting for more information.

78

Tune & Listen ON with Tune Frequency indicated by a vertical bar (highlighted).

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Volume

 Enter a value in percent between 0 and 100 (loudest) using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Volume can also be changed and easily muted from the System menu. Learn

Independent Source/Tracking Generator

A tracking generator, a popular option with Spectrum Analyzers, is a source which always tracks the SA receiver.

Like a traditional tracking generator, the Independent Source feature can set the internal FieldFox source to track the SA receiver frequency range. It can also set the internal source to a CW frequency that is independent of the SA frequency.

Independent Source can be enabled ONLY when the FieldFox is in SA mode.

To view the internal source, you must connect a cable or device between the RF

OUT connector and the RF IN connector.

The FieldFox output power is approximate and NOT flat across the frequency range.

How to make Independent Source Settings

 Press Measure 1.

 Then

Source



Source Enable ON OFF

Turns ON the internal source. o

OFF

Turns OFF the internal source.



Source Mode

Choose from the following: o

Tracking

The internal source sweeps simultaneously (tracks) with the SA receiver over the displayed frequency range, emulating NA mode measurements.

Src

is annotated on the screen. o

The source is set to a CW frequency independent from the SA setting.

Srcw

is annotated on the screen. o

Coupled CW

The source is set to a CW frequency, but that frequency

“tracks” the SA receiver Center Frequency setting. Therefore, the signal always appears at center of the display.

Srcp

is annotated on the screen.

80 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE



Normalize ON OFF

With Source Enable ON and Source Mode = Tracking,

Normalize ON stores the current measurement trace into Trace 4 in View state as a reference trace. All subsequent trace measurements subtract out this

Trace 4 reference trace, and therefore become relative to it. This causes measurements to appear near the ZERO absolute level on the y-axis (0 dBm if

UNIT is set to dBm).

SrcN

is annotated on the screen. Normalize is automatically turned OFF when the frequency range or Resolution is changed.

Learn more about Trace Display States on page 87.



Source Atten

Sets the source attenuation from 0 to 31 dB in 1 dB steps. This effectively sets the source output power. While changing the source attenuation, the approximate Nominal Output power is annotated to the right of the active entry setting.



Source CW Freq

Sets the CW frequency that is used when Source Mode is set to CW.

By default, the source output will turn off momentarily at the end of each SA sweep. To cause the source to stay ON at the end of each sweep, turn battery

saver OFF. (Learn about Battery Saver on page 161.)

 Press System 7

 Then

Preferences

 Then

Battery Saver OFF

Resolution Bandwidth (Res BW)

In SA Mode, the Res BW provides the ability to resolve, or see closely spaced signals. The narrower (lower) the Res BW, the better the spectrum analyzer can resolve signals. In addition, as the Res BW is narrowed, less noise is measured by the spectrum analyzer ADC and the noise floor on the display lowers as a result.

This allows low level signals to be seen and measured. However, as the Res BW is narrowed, the sweep speed becomes slower.

How to set Res BW



Press BW 2.



Then

Res BW Auto | Man

. o

Auto

Res BW is coupled to the frequency span. As the frequency span is narrowed, the Res BW is also narrowed providing increased ability to resolve signals.

To change this setting from Man to Auto, press Res BW twice. o

Man

Enter a Res BW value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. Then press a multiplier if necessary or press Enter .

The current Res BW setting is shown at the bottom of the screen.

#Res BW x.xx XHz ( # ) means manual setting.

This setting could impact the accuracy of the measurement. See Specifications on

page 175.

The Res BW setting also affects the Sweep Type setting. Learn how on page 82

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 81

82

NOTE

Video Bandwidth (Video BW)

Video BW is a smoothing operation that is performed after measurement data is acquired. The trace data is effectively smoothed so that the average power level of the displayed noise is the same, but the peaks and valleys of adjacent data points are smoothed together. More smoothing occurs as the Video BW is set lower. However, as the Video BW is narrowed, the sweep speed becomes slower.

How to set VBW



Press BW 2.

 Then

Video BW Auto Man

. o

Auto

Couples Video BW to the ResBW in a 1-to-1 ratio. o

Man

Enter a Video BW value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. Then press a multiplier if necessary or press Enter.

To change this setting from Man to Auto, press Video BW twice.

The current Video BW setting is shown at the bottom of the screen.

# VBW x.xx XHz ( # ) means manual setting.

When the Res BW/Video BW ratio exceeds 10,000, a

Meas UNCAL

warning may appear to indicate that the Video BW filter has reached the maximum capacity for averaging.

In Zero Span, the maximum Res BW/ Video BW ratio is 100.

Sweep Type

In SA mode, the FieldFox uses two sweep types to process inputs signals. The sweep type that is currently being used (FFT or Step) is displayed in the lowerleft corner of the FieldFox screen.

For a more comprehensive tutorial, see Spectrum Analysis Basics (App Note 150) at http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/5952-0292.pdf

How to set Sweep Type



Press BW 2.



Then

Advanced

 Then

Sweep Type Auto FFT Step

Auto

The FieldFox selects the most efficient sweep type based on the Res

BW. When Res BW is set to 200 kHz and below, FFT sweep type is selected.

Above 200 kHz, and Step sweep type is being performed. o

FFT

The FieldFox uses FFT sweep type regardless of the Res BW. o

Step

The FieldFox uses Step sweep type regardless of the Res BW. This is useful for capturing impulsive noise that may be generated from nearby electrical equipment.

Sweep Acquisition

When set to Auto, Sweep Acquisition is set to the minimum value required with the current settings in order to achieve amplitude accuracy when measuring CW signals yielding the fastest sweep update rate.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

However, you can adjust this setting in order to increase the probability of intercepting and viewing pulsed RF signals.

For example, with SwpAcquisition set to Auto a pulsed GSM signal is NOT visible on the FieldFox screen, as shown in a blue trace in the following image.

However, while watching the trace, increase the SwpAcquisition value until the pulse spectrum rises out of the noise and reaches its maximum level. Increasing the SwpAcquisition value beyond this point only slows the update rate (increases the actual Sweep time readout) but does not improve measurement quality.

NOTE

A GSM signal in a framed data format; timeslot zero ON; all others OFF;

PRF = 218Hz, Duty Cycle = 12.5%. The pulsed signal becomes visible on every sweep update with SwpAcquisition = 50.

How to set Sweep Acquisition Parameter

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then

SwpAcquistion Auto Man



Then choose from the following: o

Auto

Sweep is set to the fastest sweep possible with the current settings. o

Man

Enter a relative acquisition value between 1 and 5000, where: o 1 = Fastest sweep possible o 5,000 = Slowest sweep possible o # is shown in front of the actual sweep time to indicate a manual setting.

Some Detector and Video Bandwidth settings will raise the Auto Sweep

Acquisition value greater than 1. In these cases, manually setting Sweep

Acquisition lower than the Auto value may have NO effect.

Measurement speed specifications do NOT apply in Temperature Control Mode.

Learn more on page 14.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 83

Zero Span Measurements

When setting the frequency span to Zero, there is NO spectrum of frequencies to display, so the X-axis units becomes Time. The SA becomes like a tunable oscilloscope, with the center frequency being the frequency of interest. This capability is useful for analyzing modulation characteristics, such as pulsed measurements.

84

GSM signal, framed data format, timeslot 0 and 3 on. Sweep Time is set to approximately the frame interval. Press Single several times until the waveform section of interest is viewable and stable. Then markers can be used to measure the timeslot width and interval as shown.

How to set Zero Span

 Set

Center

to the frequency of interest o then set

Span

to 0 Hz o or select

Zero/Last Span

. Each key press toggles the frequency span between 0 Hz and the last specified frequency span.

How to change Sweep Time in Zero Span.

 Press Sweep 3

 Then

SweepTime

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad.



Then select a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20.

When the sweep time is longer than can be acquired with the current available memory,

Meas UNCAL

is displayed on the screen. Learn more on page 91.

Four times the amount of memory is available with the FieldFox A.04.00 release, allowing longer sweep times in Zero Span.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

Triggering

External and Video triggering allows you to start a FieldFox sweep which is initiated by an external event such as a signal burst.

External and Video triggering can be used in either Zero Span (time domain) or frequency span measurements. However, Video triggering in frequency domain sweeps is limited to cases where Res BW is less than or equal to 200 kHz.

FFT Gating is available for non-zero span measurements. Learn more about FFT

Gating at: www.agilent.com/find/fieldsfoxsupportFieldFox.htm

The following Trigger Settings are available ONLY when performing an FFT

sweep or when in Zero Span. Learn more about FFT on page 82 . Learn more

about Zero Span on page 84.

Trigger Type

 Press Sweep 3

 Then

Trigger Settings

 Then

Trig Type

 Then choose from the following: o

Free Run

Triggering is provided by the FieldFox internal circuitry. A new sweep begins when the previous sweep ends. o

External

A sweep is triggered on an external TTL signal at the EXT

TRIG/EXT REF BNC connector on the FieldFox top panel. Choose to trigger on the rising slope at about 1.7 V or on the falling slope at about 1.0 V using the Trigger Slope setting (below). o

Video

A sweep is triggered on a signal at the RF IN connector when the amplitude of the incoming signal exceeds the settable Trigger Level. In frequency domain sweeps, Res BW must be set to 200 kHz or less. This setting is called Video trigger because the signal that initiates the trigger appears on the display.

Trigger Slope

Trigger Slope determines which edge of an External or Video trigger signal initiates a sweep.

 Press Sweep 3

 Then

Trigger Settings

 Then

Trig Slope

 Then choose from the following: o

Pos

Sweep is triggered by the rising (positive) edge of signal. o

Neg

Sweep is triggered by the falling (negative) edge of signal.

Trigger Delay

After a valid External or Video trigger signal is received, the sweep begins after the specified Trigger Delay time. Only positive values are allowed.

To see the rising edge of a repetitive signal which is triggered on that edge, use trigger delay to clearly view the subsequent signal one period later.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 85

86

NOTE

 Press Sweep 3

 Then

Trigger Settings

 Then

Trig Delay

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Then select a multiplier key or press Enter. Learn about multiplier

abbreviations on page 20.

Trigger Level

Used with Video triggering, an incoming signal with this amplitude or higher (for positive slope) will initiate a sweep. The Units depend on the Scale Type setting:

(Log or Linear). Learn more on page 72.

The Video Trigger Level is a time domain (Zero Span) signal level comparison.

Therefore, the sweep will trigger close to the displayed level in Zero Span measurements. In frequency span measurements, processing can cause broadband signal energy to display at lower power levels than the originating time domain signal. Therefore, you may need to set the trigger level higher than the displayed level.

 Press Sweep 3

 Then

Trigger Settings

 Then

Trig Level



Enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.



Then select a multiplier key or press Enter. Learn about multiplier

abbreviations on page 20.

Auto Trigger Time

If an External or Video trigger signal is not received before the specified Auto

Trig Time, a sweep will occur automatically.

Enter 0 to set Auto Trigger OFF. When Auto Trigger is OFF, the FieldFox does

NOT sweep unless a valid External or Video trigger signal is received.

 Press Sweep 3

 Then

Trigger Settings

 Then

AutoTrig Time [current setting]

 Enter a Auto Trig Time using the numeric keypad.



Then select a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20.

Single / Continuous / Restart

The following behavior is unique to SA Mode.

This setting determines whether the FieldFox measures continuously or only once each time the

Single

or Run / Hold +/- button is pressed. Use Hold /

Single or to conserve battery power or to allow you to save or analyze a specific trace.

How to set Single, Continuous, or Restart

 Press Sweep 3.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

 Then choose one of the following: o

Continuous

Causes the SA to make continuous sweeps. This is the typical setting for making measurements. Each Run / Hold +/- press causes the SA to toggle between continuous sweep and Hold. o

OFF

Causes the SA to Hold. Each Run / Hold +/- or

Single

press causes the SA to make ONE sweep, then Hold. The

Hold

annotation changes to an arrow

-->

while the sweep occurs. o

Single

Automatically sets Continuous OFF and causes the SA to make ONE sweep, then Hold. o

Restart

Resets the Average counter to 1. When in Hold, causes the SA to make ONE sweep, then Hold. The Average counter has is used with MaxHold

and MinHold Trace States. Learn more on page 88.

Points

Points is the number of measured frequencies the X-axis. The higher number of data points, the better the ability to resolve closely spaced signals and the slower the sweep speed.

How to set number of points

 Press Sweep 3

 Then

Points [current setting]

 Then choose from:

101 | 201 | 401 | 601 | 801 | 1001

Trace Display States

In SA Mode you can display up to four of the following types of trace states. All

SA settings are applied to all displayed traces.

A color-coded legend for displayed traces is visible in the left pane of the SA

Mode screen:

W = Clear/Write; M = MaxHold; m = MinHold; A = Average; V = View

How to display Trace States



Press Trace 6.

 Then

Trace 1,2,3,4

repeatedly to select a trace number to display. Traces are displayed in the following colors: o

Trace 1 – Yellow Trace 2 – Blue o

Trace 3 – Orange Trace 4 – Red

 Then

State [current setting]

 Then choose from the following Trace States: o

Clr /Wr

(Clear/Write) Displays the actual measured data for each sweep. o

MaxHold

Displays the maximum response of the input signal at each data

point over multiple sweeps. See also Average Count on page 88.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 87

88

NOTE o

MinHold

Displays the minimum response of the input signal at each data

point over multiple sweeps. See also Average Count on page 88.

Average

Each data point is averaged over multiple sweeps as set by the

Average Count setting. Learn more in following Average Type section. o

View

Displays and then holds the last complete measurement trace on the screen. o

Blank

Displays no trace.

 Press

Default All

to return all traces to their default settings: Trace 1

(Clear/Write); all other traces (Blank).

Trace 4 data WILL be overwritten by the FieldFox when using the Independent

Source Normalize feature (page 78) or using Field Strength antenna or cable

corrections (page 75).

Average Type

In SA Mode, there are four different processes in which Averaging is performed:



Average Traces – Learn more on page 87.



Detection Method Averaging – Learn more on page 89.



Noise Marker Averaging - Learn more on page 91.

 Video BW filtering (for non-Zero Span measurements) - Learn more on page

82.

There are two types of mathematical averaging that can be performed. Select

ONE of these types and it is used for all of the above averaging processes.

How to set Average Type



Press Meas Setup 4



Then choose from the following: o

Auto

- The FieldFox chooses the most appropriate type of averaging for the current settings. When Detection Method is set to Average, a Noise Marker is present, or a Channel measurement is active, then Power Average is

ALWAYS selected. Otherwise, Log Average is selected. o

Log

Averaging – Best for displaying Trace Averaging. LgAv is shown on the left side of the FieldFox screen when selected. o

Power

(Linear) Averaging – Best for measuring true power levels. Used in

Detection Average and Noise Marker Average. Mathematically, trace noise is

2.5 dB higher than when using Log Average. PAvg is shown on the left side of the FieldFox screen when selected.

Average Count

The Average Count setting is used mainly with the Average Trace State described above. In this Trace State, the Average Count setting determines the number of sweeps to average. The higher the average count, the greater the amount of noise reduction.

When Trace (display) State is set to Average, MaxHold, or MinHold, the average counter is shown in the left edge of the screen below the Average Type.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

For all three of these Trace States, when Sweep 3

Continuous

is set to OFF, press

Restart

to reset the sweep count to 1, perform <n> sweeps, then return to

Hold

How to set Average Count

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Average Count

 Enter a value from 1 to 10,000 using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Press Enter

Detection Method

In SA Mode, the X-axis is comprised of data points, also known as “buckets”. The number of data points is specified using the Resolution setting. Learn how on

page 87.

Regardless of how many data points are across the X-axis, each data point must represent what has occurred over some frequency range and time interval.

From the frequency span of the measurement, the span of each data point is calculated as (frequency span / (data points-1)). The detection method allows you to choose how the measurements in each bucket are displayed.

One bucket showing Positive peak, Sample, and Negative peak Detection methods.

How to set Detection Method

The current Detection method is labeled on the left edge of the screen. When a method is selected manually, a # precedes the label. For example: # Nrm means that Normal was selected from the softkeys.

 Press Trace__6

 Then

Detector

 Then choose from the following

: o

Auto

Displays the most appropriate Detection method based on other settings. [ # is NOT shown]

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 89

Normal

[Nrm] Provides a better visual display of random noise than

Positive peak and avoids the missed-signal problem of the Sample Mode.

Should the signal both rise and fall within the bucket interval, then the algorithm classifies the signal as noise. An odd-numbered data point displays the maximum value encountered during its bucket. An evennumbered data point displays the minimum value encountered during its bucket. If the signal is NOT classified as noise (does NOT rise and fall) then

Normal is equivalent to Positive Peak. o

Positive Peak

[Pk] Displays the maximum value of all the measurements in each bucket. This setting ensures that no signal is missed. However, it is not a good representation of the random noise in each bucket. o

Negative Peak

[NPk] Displays the minimum value of all the measurements in each bucket. o

Sample

[Smp] Displays the center measurement of all the measurements in each bucket. This setting gives a good representation of the random noise in each bucket. However, it does not ensure that all signals are represented. o

Average

[#RMS] Displays the Root Mean Squared (RMS) average power of all the measurements in each bucket. This is the preferred method when

making power measurements. Learn more on page 140.

Display Line

A display line is a simple, horizontal line that can be placed at any amplitude level on the SA screen. Use a display line as mental guide for visual feedback. A display line is similar to a Limit Line, except that no PASS/FAIL testing occurs.

A display line is easier to create than a Limit Line. Learn about Limit lines on

page 141.

90

Display line with annotation

How to create and move a Display Line

 Press Limit __8

 Then

Display Line OFF ON

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

 Then enter a Y-axis value using the ▲|▼ arrows or the rotary knob, then press

Enter. Or enter a value using the numeric keypad and press a suffix key or press Enter.

Noise Marker

For comparison purposes, electronic noise measurements are often displayed as though the measurement was made in a 1 Hz Res BW. However, making an actual measurement at a 1 Hz Res BW is impossible, and at 10 Hz, extremely slow.

A Noise Marker, unique to SA Mode, mathematically calculates the noise measurement as though it were made using a 1 Hz bandwidth.

Several data points (or ‘buckets’) are averaged together to calculate the Noise

Marker readout. To accurately measure noise, the Noise Marker should NOT be placed on, or too close to, a signal. The distance from a signal depends on several factors. To know if an accurate reading is being made, move the Noise Marker until consistent measurements are displayed in adjacent data points.

In addition, when a Noise Marker is displayed, the Detection method is automatically switched to Average and

PAvg

is shown on the FieldFox screen.

This occurs only when Detection is set to Auto. Learn more on page 89.

With a Noise Marker present, the Res BW can be changed and the displayed noise floor will also change, but the Noise Marker readout will remain about the same.

Noise Markers can be used like regular markers. A Noise Marker is distinguished from a regular marker by (1Hz) after the marker readout value. Learn more about

regular markers on page 131.

How to measure Noise with a marker

 Press Marker to create or select a Normal or Delta marker to use to measure

Noise.

 Then

More

 Then

Marker Function

 Then

Noise ON OFF

Band/Interval Power Marker

A Band/Interval Power marker, unique to SA Mode, accumulates the power that is measured over several adjacent data points (or ‘buckets’). The range of buckets being measured is displayed with vertical posts around the marker. This Band

Span value is selectable.

This feature is very similar to a channel power measurement (page 95).

When the frequency span is set to Zero span, the marker is referred to as an

Interval marker because it averages power over a specific time interval. In this case the range is specified as the Interval Span. Learn more about Zero span

measurements on page 84.

If the Detection method and Averaging type are set to Auto when you enable a

Band/Interval Power marker, the Detection method will change to Average

(RMS) and Averaging type will change to Power average. Other Detection methods or Averaging type settings will usually cause measurement inaccuracy.

Learn more about Detection method on page 89, and Averaging Type on page 88.

Summary:

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 91

92

 In Zero span, an Interval Power Marker yields the average power over the specified time interval.

 In non-Zero span, a Band Power Marker yields the total power over the specified frequency range.

How to measure Band/Interval Power with a marker

 Press Marker to create or select a Normal or Delta marker to use to measure

Band/Interval Power.

 Then press

More

 Then

Marker Function

 Then

Band/Int Power

 Then

Band (or Interval) Span

 Then choose from the following: o

Auto

Measures power over 5% of the displayed span, or ½ graticules. The

Band Span is automatically updated to remain at 5% when you change the frequency span. o

Man

Enter a frequency or time value using the ▲|▼ arrows or the rotary knob, then press Enter. Or enter a value using the numeric keypad and select a frequency or time suffix. The Band Span remains at the frequency or time value that you set as the span changes.

Frequency Counter at Marker

Available in SA Mode ONLY. Use any existing marker to make highly-accurate frequency counter readings. For highest accuracy, lock the FieldFox to a stable

external frequency reference. Learn how on page 164.

When Frequency Counter is ON, the FieldFox uses background sweeps to zoom on the signal, measure the signal peak with 1 Hz resolution, and display the frequency of the signal peak in the marker annotation area. The marker does not move to the signal peak.

When Freq Counter is ON, measurement sweeps are considerably slower.

How to use Frequency Counter



Press Marker.



Press Normal, Delta, or Peak, or select an existing marker to use as a frequency counter.



Locate the marker somewhere on a CW signal. It does NOT have to be on the peak.



Then

More



Then

Freq Count ON



With Freq Count ON, you can scroll through the existing markers that are located on a discrete CW signal, and read the frequency of the signal peak.

However, each frequency count update requires another sweep. If the FieldFox is in HOLD, press

Single

to update the frequency count results.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Audio Beep at Marker Power

When enabled, the Audio Beep feature emits a repetitive beep sound which varies in tone pitch and repetition rate to indicate the relative power level of the active marker. The highest tone pitch and fastest beep rate occurs when the marker Y-axis position is at the top of the display. Conversely, the lowest pitch and repetition rate occurs at the bottom of the display. Therefore, it is important to scale the signals that you intend to measure between the top and bottom of the

screen. Learn more about Scale on page 72.

Audio Beep can be used with any marker type or function, including

Band/Interval Power. Learn more on page 91.

How to use Audio Beep

 Press Marker

 Optionally, press

Marker 1 2 3 4 5 6

to select an existing marker to use with

Audio Beep. A marker will be created if one does not already exist.

 Then

More

 Then

Marker Function

 Then

Audio Beep ON OFF

Audio Beep does NOT beep when the FieldFox is in Hold mode.

While Audio Beep is ON, press

Marker 1 2 3 4 5 6

to toggle Audio Beep through the existing markers.

To set FieldFox speaker volume control, press System , then

Volume

. Learn

Meas UNCAL Error

Meas UNCAL

appears in the lower-left corner of the screen when the FieldFox can NOT display accurate measurement results with the current settings.

Usually, the part of the trace that is inaccurate is shown at –200 dB.

The following situation can produce Meas UNCAL:

 In Zerospan, when Sweep Time is set too high for the current Res BW. Lower the Res BW or the Sweep Time setting.

 When the ResBW/VBW ratio exceeds 10,000, causing the VBW filter to reach the maximum capacity for averaging.

**Old Data Indicator (*)**

In SA mode, when the current trace does not exactly match the annotation that is on the screen, an asterisk is displayed in the upper-right corner of the screen graticule area. This would occur, for example, when the Res BW setting is changed while in sweep Hold mode. The annotation is changed immediately, but the trace is not updated until the next sweep occurs. Therefore, the current data

trace does not match the screen annotation. See the asterisk on page 67.

Channel Measurements

The following Channel Measurements are offered in SA Mode:

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 93

94

Channel Power ....................................................... 95

Occupied Bandwidth ............................................. 96

Adjacent Channel Power Ratio ........................... 98

The following four sections (Radio Standards and Channel Measurements,

Measurement Preset, Averaging, and Traces) are relevant for ALL Channel

Measurements.

Radio Standards and Channel Measurements

To tune the frequency range of any of the Channel Measurements using channels instead of frequency, first select a Radio Standard, then select Units = CHAN.

Learn how to select a Radio Standard and channels on page 70.

When you first select a Radio Standard, then select a Channel Measurement:

 With Units = FREQ selected, the center frequency and span will ALWAYS change to the full frequency range of that standard (Uplink and Downlink) to allow for a quick scan of energy. The X-axis annotation indicates the frequency range.

 With Units = CHAN selected, the FieldFox chooses either the uplink or downlink band, and displays that range of frequencies. You can then tune within that Standard using Start CHAN, Stop CHAN, or Center CHAN. The Xaxis annotation indicates the frequency range.

When you first select a Channel Measurement, then select a Radio Standard, the BW, Offset, RRC, Integration BW, and Span settings are changed to those of the standard. In addition, Res BW can also change when set to ‘Auto(couple)’.

However, center frequency is NOT changed unless you first select Units = CHAN.

Measurement Preset

Measurement Preset allows you to easily reset any of the channel measurements to its default settings. The Center Frequency, Preamp ON|OFF, RF Attenuation,

Markers, Limits, and Radio Standard settings are NOT reset.

To select Measurement Preset:

 Press Preset then

Meas Preset

Averaging

By default in ALL Channel measurements, averaging is enabled and set to display the average of the last 15 measurements. When enabled, this average setting is automatically making the following ‘averaging’ settings in order to provide the most accurate power measurements:

 Averaging Type is set to Power.

 Trace State is set to Average.

 Detector is set to Average.

 Count is set to 15.

Any of these settings can be changed manually during a Channel measurement.

Learn more about these settings starting at page 88.

To change Averaging:

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Average Enable ON OFF

OFF effectively sets the Average Count to 1.

 Then

Average Count

 Enter a value between 1 and 10,000 using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Press Enter.

Traces

Only one measurement trace can be displayed in Channel Measurements.

Channel Power (CHP)

Channel Power measures total power over the specified Integrated BW. The

Integration Bandwidth (IBW) can be adjusted to measure the power over multiple channels.

Channel Power measurement; Chan 190 Downlink; GSM850 Radio Standard

The following two Channel Power levels are displayed:

 Channel Power - measures total power over the specified Integrated BW.

 Power Spectral Density – same measured power, but mathematically normalized to a 1 Hz bandwidth using the same algorithm as Noise Marker.

Learn more about the Noise Marker on page 90.

How to select Channel Power

 Press Measure 1

 Then

Channel Measurements

 Then

Channel Power

When Channel Power is selected, the following settings are maintained from a previous measurement: Center Frequency, Preamp ON|OFF, and RF Attenuation.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 95

Integration Bandwidth

When Channel Power is selected, vertical posts appear on the display to mark the current Integration Bandwidth setting. The displayed Channel Power and Power

Spectral Density values are measured and calculated over the specified

Integration Bandwidth.

By default, the displayed frequency span is automatically coupled to the

Integration Bandwidth. As you change the Integration Bandwidth, the frequency span is adjusted so that the vertical posts appear to NOT move. However, when you manually change the frequency span, the Integration Bandwidth is no longer coupled to the frequency span.

When a Radio Standard is selected, the appropriate Integration Bandwidth is set

automatically. Learn more about Radio Standards on page 70.

To change Integration Bandwidth:

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Integrating BW

 Enter a value between 100 Hz and 3 GHz using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Press Enter

Other Channel Power Settings

All relevant FieldFox settings are made automatically to ensure the highest accuracy, such as ResBW, VideoBW, and sweep (SwpAcquisition) speed. These, and all other SA Mode settings, can be changed manually in a Channel Power measurement.



Learn about Measurement Preset on page 94.



Learn about Averaging on page 94.



Learn about RRC Weighting on page 101.

Occupied Bandwidth

Occupied Bandwidth measures the power of the displayed frequency span and displays vertical posts at the frequencies between which the specified percentage of the power is contained. The frequency span between the two vertical posts is the Occupied Bandwidth. The Occupied Power, the power that is contained between the two posts, is also displayed in dBm.

96 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

OBW measurement; Chan 190 Downlink; GSM850 Radio Standard

How to select Occupied Bandwidth

 Press Measure 1

 Then

Channel Measurements

 Then

Occupied BW

When Occupied Bandwidth is selected, the following settings are maintained from a previous measurement: Center Frequency, Preamp ON|OFF, and RF

Attenuation.

Frequency Span

Occupied BW is calculated from power that is measured over the entire displayed Frequency Span. The frequency span can be entered using arbitrary frequencies or by using a Radio Standard in conjunction with channel numbers.

Learn how to select a Radio Standard and channels on page 70.

To change Frequency Span:

 Press Freq/Dist

 Then

Freq Span

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Press Enter

Power Percent

This setting specifies the percentage of total measured power to display between the vertical posts. The measurement defaults to 99% of the occupied bandwidth power. The remaining power (1% of default setting) is evenly distributed; .5% of the power on the outside of each side of the vertical posts.

To change Power Percent:

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Power Percent

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 97

 Enter a value between 10 and 99.99 using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Press Enter.

Other Occupied Bandwidth Settings

Bandwidth measurement.



Learn about Measurement Preset on page 94.



Learn about Averaging on page 94.

Adjacent Channel Power Ratio(ACPR)

ACPR measures the power of a carrier channel and the power in its adjacent

(offset) channels. The measurement results can help you determine whether the carrier power is set correctly and whether the transmitter filter is working properly.

You can measure the channel power in one, two, or three adjacent (offset) channels on the low frequency and high frequency side of the center channel.

Limits can be used to quickly see if too much power is measured in the adjacent channels.

98

GSM 850-Ch 251-Up with one Offset.

Red Freqs (Mhz) added to illustrate Offset and Integ BW.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Data in the ACPR graphical chart is always presented in dBm for the carrier, and dBc (dB below the carrier) for the offsets. This can NOT be changed. Use the

Meas Type setting (next page) to change how the data is presented in the table below the graph.

How to select ACPR

 Press Measure 1

 Then

Channel Measurements

 Then

Adjacent Channel Power

When ACPR is selected, the following settings are maintained from a previous measurement: Center Frequency, Preamp ON|OFF, and RF Attenuation.

Frequency Range/Channel

When a Radio Standard is selected, the appropriate center frequency or channel and span is set automatically. The frequency or channel number can then be changed from the Freq/Dist menu. Learn how to select a Radio Standard and

channels on page 70.

The frequency range of an ACPR measurement can also be entered using arbitrary frequencies.

When a Radio Std is NOT selected, the center frequency of a previous measurement is maintained when ACPR is selected.

Integration Bandwidth

The Integration Bandwidth of the carrier and offsets is the frequency span over which power is measured.

To change Integration Bandwidth:

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Integrating BW

 Enter a value between 100 Hz and 100 MHz using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Press Enter

How to define adjacent (Offset) channels

An offset represents a range of frequencies over which power is measured. You can specify up to three offsets. The frequency range for each offset is specified with an Offset Freq and Integ BW. Each offset that is created has a Lower

(carrier MINUS Offset Freq) and Upper (carrier PLUS Offset Freq) set of frequencies.

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Offsets

 Press

Offset 1 2 3

to select an offset.

 Then

Offset State

to set that offset ON or OFF.

 Select

Offset Freq

This is the difference between the carrier center frequency and the center frequency of the offset channel. Then enter a value using the numeric keypad.

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 99

100

 Select

Offset Integ BW

This is the frequency range over which power is measured in that offset; half of the range below and half above the Offset Freq.

How to set limits for adjacent channels

You can set a unique threshold power for each of the offsets that will cause a

FAIL indication (RED bar). This occurs when the calculated dBc power (on top of the offset bar) is ABOVE the specified level.

To set limits, with an ACPR measurement on the screen:

 Press Limit 8

 Then

Set Limits (1,2, or 3)

 Then choose from the following:



Lower Offset

Sets a limit for the lower-frequency offset.



Upper Offset

Sets a limit for the higher-frequency offset.

 Then enter a value using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Then

Limit Test ON OFF

Measurement Type

This setting determines how the measured carrier and offset power levels in the

table are presented. (Data in the graphical chart is always presented in dBm for the carrier and dBc for the offsets.)

To select Meas Type:

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

More

 Then

Meas Type

 Then choose from the following: o

Total Pwr Ref

– Integrated carrier power is represented in dBm, and relative powers between offsets and carrier are represented as dBc (dB below the carrier). o

PSD Ref

(Power Spectral Density) – Integrated carrier power is normalized to a 1 Hz density as dBm/Hz using a similar algorithm as Noise

Marker. Learn more about the Noise Marker on page 90.

For both Meas Types, choose the reference for the offset data.



Auto

– dB or dBc value is computed by subtracting the measured carrier power from the measured offset power.



Man

– dB or dBc value is computed by subtracting the entered RefValue from the measured offset power. o

Press

Ref Value

Then enter a value to be used to reference the data using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Other ACPR Settings



Learn about Measurement Preset on page 94.



Learn about Averaging on page 94.

RRC Weighting

RRC, or Root-Raised-Cosign weighting, is offered with Channel Power and ACPR measurements.

When RRC Weighting is applied to transmitted and received power, the edges of the channel are ‘smoothed’ to help prevent interference. To accurately measure a channel that has RRC weighting, set the same value of RRC weighting as that used in the transmitter and receiver.

Channel power measurement with .22 RRC applied

RRC Weighting is set and enabled automatically when included in a selected radio standard.

To set and enable RRC Weighting:

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

RRC Weighting ON OFF

 Then

More

 Then

RRC Alpha [current setting]

 Enter a value between 0 (no smoothing) and 1 (most smoothing) using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. A standard level of filtering is .22.

 Press Enter

SA (Spectrum Analyzer) Mode 101

Spectrogram display- Overlay view- with time markers 23 seconds apart.

The following settings all contribute to the sweep time of an individual trace, and therefore, the total elapsed time that can appear on the screen in Spectrogram display:



Frequency Range. Learn more on page 68.



Resolution BW and Video BW. Learn more on page 78



Sweep Time (Acquisition). Learn more on page 82.



Resolution (Number of Points). Learn more on page 87.

How to select Spectrogram

 Press Meas 1

 Then

Interference Analysis

 Then

Spectrogram

How to modify the Spectrogram

You can change how the spectrogram is displayed relative to the data trace. This setting affects the total number of trace records that can be displayed.

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Spectrogram Settings

 Then

Spectrogram View

 Then choose from the following: o

Overlay

Displays the data trace over the spectrogram with NO graticules.

Total trace records: 340. o

Full Screen

Displays the spectrogram with NO data trace. Total trace records: 340. o

Top

Displays the data trace above the spectrogram. Total trace records: 130. o

Bottom

Displays the data trace below the spectrogram. Total trace records:

130.

Interference Analyzer (SA Mode) - Option 236 103

106



Resolution BW and Video BW. Learn more on page 78



Sweep Time (Acquisition). Learn more on page 82.



Resolution (Number of Points). Learn more on page 87.

Waterfall Angle

This setting allows you to show more or less detail. More detail provides fewer

(time) records.

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

Spectrogram Settings

 Then

Waterfall Angle

 Then choose from the following: o

Moderate

Compromise between detail and number of records. o

Steep

Least detail with highest number of records. o

Gradual

Most detail with lowest number of records. o

Wide Angle

Moderate angle with increased space between records.

Learn how to set Red and Blue Limits and Time Markers on page 104.

Record Playback

Record Playback allows you to record SA trace sweeps and play them back at a later time. Use this feature to monitor spectrum activity over a period of time.

You can record traces continuously, record a specified number of traces

(segments), or record when triggered by a specified power level.

Traces can be recorded from, or played back into, any measurement type (such as Channel Power or Occupied BW) or any display type (such as Spectrogram and Waterfall).

When GPS is enabled and displayed, the current location and elevation are saved and played back with traces.

Recordings can be saved to the FieldFox Internal memory, an SD Card, or a USB flash drive.

About Sessions

A Recording Session is a collection of recorded traces and the instrument states that generated them.

Before recording can occur, a new session must be initiated or an existing session must be opened. Sessions can later be opened for playing or continued recording. Only one session can be open at a time.

You close the session when finished recording or playing. A session is also closed when the FieldFox is Preset (or Mode Preset), an Instrument State is recalled, or when Mode is changed from SA.

Each session is saved as a folder containing a set of files on the specified storage device.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

How long can a recording session last?

There are many variables that determine the possible length of a recording session. But one key variable is the amount of available memory.

When a session is opened or a new session is initiated, an estimate is made of the maximum number of traces that can be saved, based on the available disk space and the current number of data points (resolution). Recording will stop when that number is reached. This estimate always maintains 4 MB of available disk space on the specified storage device. You can decrease the number of traces to further limit recording. The resolution setting can NOT be changed after a session is opened.

To maximize the amount of space that is available, save recorded traces to a USB

Flash drive or SD card. Learn how in Manage Sessions on page 112.

You can determine the length of time over which recording can occur by setting the Record Interval (the time between recorded traces) and other settings. Learn

more in Recording Configuration on page 110.

To view and edit the maximum number of records

Just after opening or initiating a session...



Press

Session Data



Then

Trace Record Limit <n>

(n = Max number of traces that can be recorded).



Clear All Records

Empties that session of recorded traces. Learn more in

Manage Sessions on page 112.

FieldFox Setting Changes during Record and Playback

During Recording

When any of the following State settings are changed during recording, the State

counter is incremented (see About State and User Tags on page 108) and the

settings are saved to the Session file along with the first trace to be recorded with the new setting. During playback, the trace and display annotation will reflect the change on the screen.

State settings: Frequency Range, Resolution BW, Video BW, Zerospan Sweep

Time, Sweep Acquisition, Preamp On/Off, Attenuation, Detector, Average Type,

Trigger Settings, Independent Source.

Other display settings, such as Scale and Reference Level, can also be changed during recording but are not saved with the session file. Think of these as settings that help YOU see the recording and playback activity. They do NOT change the data that is recorded.

During Playback

The State setting changes listed above are NOT allowed during playback.

However, all other display settings can be changed during playback to help you analyze the recorded data.

The recordings can be played into different measurements such as Channel

Power or Occupied BW. When the recorded data is not compatible with the measurement type, a

MEAS UNCAL

message will appear on the screen.

The data can also be played back in Spectrogram and Waterfall displays.

Interference Analyzer (SA Mode) - Option 236 107

108

NOTE

Record/Playback Exceptions

 Markers can be activated and moved to help analyze recorded data. However, marker position control is only available when playback is Paused.

 Field Strength Corrections is saved with the session file and it is also allowed

during playback. Learn about this Field Strength Corrections on page 75.

 Frequency Counter at Marker is NOT allowed during Recording or Playback.

Learn about this feature on page 92.

About State and User Tags

When any of the State settings (listed above) are changed during a recording, a

‘state tag’ is inserted at the first trace number to be recorded with the new setting.

In addition, you can insert a ‘User Tag’ at any time during a recording session to indicate an external event, such as when an antenna is moved. During playback, you can move quickly to any of these tags, or scroll through these tags.

A symbol is used on the screen annotation to distinguish a User Tag from a State

Tag when scrolling through tags during playback.

Screen Annotation

During a record or playback session, the following is displayed in the top-left area of the screen:

AutoSession02: 92/95 (state 4/5)_*_

Sep.22.2009 09:15:15 AM where:



AutoSession

is an auto-generated name for sessions.

is the auto-generated number, incremented with each new session. The name can be changed using

Manage Sessions. Learn more on page 112.



92/95

is the current and total trace number: currently trace is 92 of 95 total traces.



state 4/5

is the current and total state tag or user tag number: 4 of 5 total tags.



(Asterisk) indicates that a state has changed.

(Pound) indicates that a User

Tag has been inserted.



Sep.22...

is the date and time of recording.

 When GPS is enabled and displayed, the current location and elevation are annotated at the bottom of the playback display. Learn more about GPS on

page 162.

If Recording or Playback is not occurring when you think it should, check the following:

 Is the sweep in

HOLD

? (upper-left annotation)

 Is Recording or Playback

Paused

? (mid-left annotation)

 Is the Record or Playback Interval set to a long delay? (Configuration settings.)

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

How to Record a Session

 Press Trace 6

 Then

Record Playback Setup



Optionally set resolution (points). Learn how on page 87. This can NOT be

changed after a session is opened.

 Then either: o

New Session

OR o

Recall Session

then

Open

and select a session.

 Then

Recorder Player

 Then

Record

REC

is displayed in the left of screen graticules.

During recording, choose from the following:



Pause Resume

Temporarily halts recording until pressed again. The incoming trace continues to sweep. Press again to continue recording.



Stop

Immediately stops recording. Then choose from the following: o

Press

Play

to start replaying the recording from the beginning. o

Press

Record

to continue recording.



User Tag

Press to insert a User Tag at the current recorded trace. This allows you to quickly move to this location during playback. Learn more in About

State and User Tags on page 108.

How to Playback a Session

 Press Trace 6

 If the session is already open, skip the following step. Otherwise:

 Then

Record Playback Setup

Press

Recall Session

Then select a session to playback and press

Open

 Then

Recorder Player

 Then

Play

PLAY

is displayed in the left of screen graticules during playback. When the end of the recording is reached, playback begins again at trace 1 and continues to loop indefinitely.

During playback, choose from the following:



Pause Resume

Temporarily halts playback. Then choose from the following: o

Pause Resume

Press to continue playing. o

Playback State/Tag

Allows you to continue playback from a state tag, or scroll through the state tags. Enter a value between 1 and the total number of state tags using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

Learn more in About State and User Tags on page 108.

Interference Analyzer (SA Mode) - Option 236 109

110

Playback Trace

Activated automatically when Paused. Allows you to continue playback from a specific trace, or scroll through traces manually.

Enter a value between 1 and the total number of traces using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.



Stop

Immediately stops playback. Then choose from the following: o

Play

Start playback from trace 1. o

Record

Resume recording from the last recorded trace. o

Record Playback Setup

Return to the setup menu to change Configuration settings or Close the session.

Recording Configuration

To change Recording Configuration settings:

 Press Trace 6

 Then

Record Playback Setup

 Then

New Session

Recall

an existing session.

 Then

Recording Configuration

Then choose from the following: o

Record Time

Sets the amount of time to record traces. Default is MAX, which is to record indefinitely. Enter a value between 1s and 1 Ms (million) seconds using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. When set, a timer appears during recording in the lower-left corner which counts

DOWN from the specified time. o

Record Source

Sets where, in the FieldFox data flow, data is recorded.

Learn more about Record Source on page 111.

Choose from the following: o

RawMeas

Records raw measurement data. o

Trace 1,2,3,4

Records data from the corresponding trace in its current state. o

Record Interval

Sets the amount of time to wait between individual trace recordings. Default is MIN, which is to wait 0 seconds (record traces as fast as possible). Enter a value in seconds between 0 (no delay) and 10,000 seconds - about 3 hrs) using the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob. o

Segment Count

Sets the number of traces to record, after which the recording will automatically pause. Press Pause/Resume or Record to capture another N traces, or Stop to end recording. Default is OFF, which is

NO limit to the number of traces to be recorded. When set, a counter appears in the lower-left corner which counts UP to the specified number of recordings. o

FreqMaskTrigger

Sets the power level which will trigger a recording. Set these power levels (mask) exactly as you would set Limit Lines. (Learn how

on page 141.) With Record ON, when any data point measurement is higher

than an upper limit, or lower than a lower limit, recording begins. See

Frequency Mask Trigger Configuration in the following section to learn how to configure the mask.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

Typically you would use FreqMaskTrigger with Segment Count, but it can also be used with Record Time and Record Interval.

When used with Segment Count: o

When a mask limit is exceeded, subsequent traces are recorded until the specified segment count is reached. Once segment count is reached, exceeding another mask limit will again cause traces to be recorded until the segment count is reached, and so forth. o

To record only those traces that exceed the limit, set Segment Count to 1 o

To record ALL traces after a limit is exceeded, set Segment Count OFF.

When used with Record Time, the timer counts down even when traces are not being recorded (limits are not being exceeded). Recording starts when a limit is exceeded and stops when the timer reaches 0.

When used with Record Interval, a trace is recorded when a limit is exceeded, then no recordings during the specified ‘wait’ interval, then the next trace is recorded, followed by another time delay, and so forth. This pattern repeats indefinitely if Segment Count is OFF, or (if ON) until

Segment Count is reached.

Frequency Mask Trigger Configuration

Create or recall a Frequency Mask to be used with the FreqMaskTrigger feature.

The Mask file is saved to, and recalled from, the Save /Recall Storage Device location – NOT from the Record Playback Storage Device location. These are two

different settings. Learn how to set the Save /Recall Storage Device on page 149.

A mask that is in use during a recording is NOT saved with the recording and does NOT automatically appear during playback. Like Limits lines, it is saved and recalled with a state file.

Although they are created in the same manner, Limit Line files and FreqMask files can NOT be used interchangeably.

 Press Trace 6

 Then

Record Playback Setup

 Then

New Session

Recall

an existing session. The current mask appears as soon as a session is opened.

 Then

FreqMaskTrigger Configuration

 Then choose from the following o

Edit Mask

Create or modify the current mask. Learn how to edit the Mask /

Limit Line table on page 141.

Save Mask

Saves the current mask to a file. o

Recall Mask

Loads a mask file.

Record Source

The simplest way to use Record Playback is to record RawMeas data, which is can then be played back into all of the current Trace States.

However, for more complicated processing, refer to the following diagram. This illustrates where in the FieldFox data flow data is recorded and played back.

Interference Analyzer (SA Mode) - Option 236 111

 Then

Storage Device

to select the media which stores the sessions to be managed. This is a different setting from the Save/Recall Storage Device setting.

 Then choose from the following: o

Internal

FieldFox memory (default) o

SD Card

An external SD Card (must be inserted) o

USB

An external USB flash drive (must be inserted)

 Then

Manage Sessions

 Then choose from the following: o

Name

Using the FieldFox labeler, change the name of the session.

AutoSession (n) is the default name where (n) is the next-available number.

Learn how to use the labeler on page 147.

Sort

Arrange the listing of sessions

by Name

by Date

, or

by (file) Size

. o

Delete

After a confirmation prompt, removes the contents of the selected session from the list. o

Copy

Copies the selected session to a different storage device, or the same storage device with ‘Copy_’ appended to the beginning of the name. o

Copy All

Copies ALL of the listed sessions to a different storage device, or the same storage device with ‘Copy_’ appended to the beginning of the names.

Record Playback Example

The following “Interval Recording” example shows how you can record spectral activity over a longer period of time with less trace storage.



Press Trace 6 then, with

Trace

= 1, press

State

then

Max Hold



Then

Record Playback Setup



Then

New Session



Then

Recording Configuration



Then

Record Source

to Trace1



Then

Record Interval

to 10

(seconds).



Then

Back



Then

Recorder Player



Then

Record

At the end of each 10 second record interval, the Max Hold trace is recorded and the Max Hold processing is reset for the next 10 second record interval.



Then

Stop

to end the recording.

This session can be played back into any Trace State. For example:

Play the Max Hold recording into a Clear/Write trace to see the data exactly as it was recorded.

 Press Trace 6 then with

Trace

= 1 and press

State

then

Clr/Wr

Interference Analyzer (SA Mode) - Option 236 113

 Then

Record Player

 Then

Play

Play the Max Hold recording into a Max Hold trace to show the accumulation of

“Max Hold” activity over the entire recording.

 Press Trace 6 then with

Trace

= 1 and press

State

then

Max Hold

 Then

Record Player

 Then

Play

114 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

CPM (Channel Power Meter) Mode - Option 311

NOTE

CPM uses the RF IN connector to make quick and simple power measurements over a selectable frequency span. A power sensor is NOT required.

There are NO SCPI commands to set or control CPM mode.

In this Chapter

Set Frequency/Span ............................................ 116

The following CPM settings are identical to the standard Power Meter settings.

Learn more about these settings:

Set Scale ................................................................ 120

Set Relative and Offset Power ........................... 121

Set Display Units ................................................. 122

Set Averaging........................................................ 122

Single/Continuous ............................................... 122

Set Limits .............................................................. 123

Power Meter Settings

Connect the power to be measured to the RF IN port on the FieldFox top panel.

Select CPM Mode before making any setting in this section.

How to select Power Meter Mode



Press Mode_.

 Then

CPM

CPM (Channel Power Meter) Mode - Option 311 115

116

CAUTION

Please observe the RF IN port damage level.

+27 dBm (320 mW) average

+33 dBm peak (2 W) <10μs

+50 V

Frequency/ Span / Step

Valid CPM measurements can be made over the entire frequency range of the

FieldFox. Although it is possible to enter a center frequency below the FieldFox minimum frequency, the LO feed-thru of the internal SA hardware will invalidate these CPM measurements.

The measurement span (also known as Channel Width and Integration BW) is the frequency range, half above and half below the center frequency, over which power is detected and displayed. The maximum measurement span is 100 MHz.

A Radio Standard can also be used to set the center frequency and span. Learn

more about Radio Standards on page 70.

How to enter center frequency, step size, and span

The default frequency is 50 MHz.

 Press Freq/Dist or Meas Setup 4 .

 Then

Frequency

 Then

Center

 Then type a value using the numeric keypad. Then press a multiplier key.

Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20. The current frequency (f) is

shown on the FieldFox screen.

 Optionally, use the ▲|▼ arrows to quickly change Center frequency. The size of the frequency step can also be changed. Press

CF Step

then type a step size value using the numeric keypad, then select a multiplier key.

 Optionally press

Span (Ch Wid)

Type a value using the numeric keypad. Then press a multiplier key. The default span is 2 MHz. The maximum measurement span is 100 MHz. The current span setting is shown as the dividend in the digital display. For example: -10 dBm / 1.00 MHz

Attenuation

The Attenuation setting controls the power level into the FieldFox.

To compare CPM mode measurements to SA Channel Power measurements, use the same attenuation settings. CPM mode defaults to 30 dB attenuation, while SA mode defaults to 10 dB attention. In CPM mode, the attenuation setting is NOT annotated on the screen.

How to set Attenuation

 Press Scale/Amptd

 Then

More

 Then

Internal Atten

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Note: o

30 dB

10 dB

The following CPM settings are identical to the standard Power Meter settings. To learn about these settings, please refer to the following pages:

Set Scale ................................................................ 120

Set Relative and Offset Power ........................... 121

Set Display Units ................................................. 122

Set Averaging........................................................ 122

Single/Continuous ............................................... 122

Set Limits .............................................................. 123

CPM (Channel Power Meter) Mode - Option 311 117

Power Meter Mode – Option 302

Power Meter measurements are made with Agilent USB power sensors. Power readings are displayed on the FieldFox screen.

118

In this Chapter

Supported Power Sensors .................................. 118

How to Connect the Power Sensor ................... 119

Average/Peak ....................................................... 119

Zeroing ................................................................... 119

Set Frequency ....................................................... 120

Set Scale ................................................................ 120

Set Relative and Offset Power ........................... 121

Set Display Units ................................................. 122

Set Averaging........................................................ 122

Single/Continuous ............................................... 122

Step Detection Mode ........................................... 123

Set Limits .............................................................. 123

Supported Power Sensors

Power Meter measurements are made using any of the Agilent U2000 Series and

U2020 X-Series USB Power Sensors.

NOTE The FieldFox does NOT support the following Agilent USB Power Sensor features: External Triggering (Time Gated Burst Power Measurement), Power

Sweep Operation, and Frequency Sweep Operation. External Zeroing is NOT allowed on the U2020 X-series Power Sensors.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

CAUTION

Please observe the damage level of your U2000 Series Power Sensor.

Typical damage levels of the U2000 Series Power Sensor are:

+25 dBm (320 mW) average

+33 dBm peak (2 W) <10μs

+5V

Typical damage levels of the U2020X Series Power Sensor are:

+23 dBm (200 mW) average

+30 dBm peak (1 W) <1 μs

+5V

How to Connect the Power Sensor

Connect your Power Sensor to one of the USB ports.

NOTE Use an attenuator between the DUT and the power sensor when measuring power levels that are higher than +20 dBm. The attenuator value can be

subtracted from the measurement using the Offset feature, discussed on page

121.

A sequence of status lights are displayed on the base of the power sensor.

 Green blinking light indicates the power sensor is communicating or self-tests are being performed. Because the FieldFox is usually communicating with the power sensor when it is connected, this is the normal mode of operation.



Amber light indicates Zeroing is being performed.



Red light indicates an error has occurred with the power sensor. Refer to power sensor documentation.



No light indicates the FieldFox is not communicating with the power sensor.

This is the case when in Hold mode or when NOT in Power Meter Mode.

Power Meter Settings

Select Power Meter Mode before making any setting in this section.

How to select Power Meter Mode

 Press Mode .

 Then

Power Meter (USB Sensor)

Average / Peak

 Press Measure 1

 Then choose from the following: o

Average

Measures and reports the average of the power measurements. o

Peak

Available ONLY on the U202x power sensors. Measures and reports peak power detected at sensor input.

Power Meter Mode – Option 302 119

120

NOTE

Zeroing

The Agilent USB Power Sensors perform Internal Zeroing automatically. Because

Agilent USB Power Sensors have an internal switch, Internal Zeroing does NOT require that the power source be turned OFF.

For highest measurement accuracy, when measuring power levels below –30 dBm, External Zeroing should be performed.

During External Zeroing, the power source MUST be turned OFF or the power sensor disconnected from the power source (device under test). Power is OFF when power sensor measurements are below –60 dBm. When power higher than this is detected at the sensor, a warning message is shown on the FieldFox and

External Zeroing will not proceed.

External Zeroing is NOT allowed on the U2020 X-series Power Sensors.

How to perform External Zeroing

 Press Cal 5 .

 Then

External Zero

While either Internal or External Zeroing is being performed, “Zeroing...” is shown on the FieldFox screen. While this message is present, do NOT make any changes to the FieldFox.

In addition, once External Zeroing has started, the power source must be OFF for the entire time that the Zeroing message is present. Otherwise, the calibration will be compromised but NO warning is shown.

Frequency

A table of correction factors versus frequency is stored within the Agilent U2000

Series Power Sensors. The frequency of the power to be measured is entered in the FieldFox so that the appropriate correction factor can be used.

The frequency of the power measurement is NOT limited by the frequency range of the FieldFox, but the frequency range of the power sensor, which can be much wider.

How to enter Frequency of the Power Measurement

 Press Freq/Dist or Meas Setup 4 .

 Then

Frequency

 Then type a value using the numeric keypad. The default frequency is 50 MHz.



Then press a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier abbreviations on page 20.

The current frequency is shown on the FieldFox screen.

Scale

The scale of the Power Meter display can be set manually or automatically. The major and minor ticks are set automatically and can NOT be changed. Although the scale settings are limited, you can view measurements beyond these settings by performing Autoscale.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

How to Scale the Power Meter display

Manually:

 Press Scale / Amptd.

 Then choose from the following: o

Scale Min

Sets the low power level of the power meter display. Type a number and select the units or press Enter. This value is limited to –100 dBm. o

Scale Max

Sets the high power level of the power meter display. Type a number and select the units or press Enter. This value is limited to 100 dBm.

Autoscale:

Using Autoscale, the current reading is used for the center of the scale, and Min and Max values are set accordingly.

 Press Scale / Amptd.

 Then

More

 Then

Autoscale

Relative and Offset Power Measurements

Power measurements can be made that are relative to another reading or that are offset by a fixed value.



Use Relative to measure the difference between power levels.



Use Offset to account for components or a long length of cable that is used before the power sensor. For example, if using a 10 dB attenuator to protect the FieldFox, enter an Offset Value of 10 to read the power as it would appear without attenuation. If using a 10 dB amplifier, enter an Offset Value of –10 to read the power as it would appear without amplification.

How to set Relative and Offset Power Measurements

 Press Scale / Amptd.

 Then choose from the following: o

Relative On Off

When switched to ON, the FieldFox measures and stores the current power level. Subsequent power measurements display a power level which is relative to the stored value. When relative is ON, the units change from dBm to dB or from Watts to %. o

Offset On Off

Toggles ON and OFF the displayed power level using the

Offset value. o

Offset Val

Value by which the power meter display is offset. A positive value compensates for a component with loss. A negative value compensates for a component with gain. Offset values are limited to +/- 100 dB.

Power Meter Mode – Option 302 121

122 Display Units

Select whether to display power in dBm or Watts. When making relative power measurements, these change to dB and %.

How to set Power Meter display units

 Press Meas Setup 4 or Scale / Amptd.

 Then

Unit

 Then choose from the following: o

dBm (dB)

Sets Power Meter display to dBm or dB. o

Watt (%)

Sets Power Meter display to Watts or %.

Resolution

Resolution sets the number of digits to display after the decimal point on the digital power meter display.

How to set Resolution

 Press Scale / Amptd.

 Then

More

 Then choose from 0, 1, 2 , or 3.

Averaging

Averaging is used to improve measurement accuracy in low power or noisy power situations. Increased averaging improves measurement accuracy, but also reduces measurement speed.

How to set Power Meter Averaging

 Press BW 2 or Meas Setup 4.



Then choose from the following: o

Averaging Auto Man Off

Auto Allows the USB Power Sensor to use its Auto Averaging settings.

See the USB Power Sensor documentation for details. o

Man Manually enter an averaging count by setting Num Averages. o

OFF Performs NO averaging. o

Num Averages

Sets the number of Power Meter readings to be averaged before a valid reading is displayed. When a number is entered, Averaging is automatically set to Man.

Single or Continuous Measure

This setting determines whether the FieldFox measures continuously or only once each time the

Single

button is pressed. Use Single to conserve battery power or to allow you to save or analyze a specific measurement.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

How to set Single or Continuous

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then choose from the following: o

Single

Automatically sets Continuous OFF and causes FieldFox to make

ONE measurement, then hold for the next Single key press. When a data trace is displayed, the entire trace is measured, then holds. The

Hold

annotation changes to an arrow

-->

while the measurement occurs. o

Continuous

Makes continuous measurements. This is the typical setting when battery power is not critical.

You can also use Run / Hold +/- to toggle between Single and Continuous.

Step Detection Mode

The FieldFox supports the Step Detection feature that is present in U2000 series power meters. When enabled, this feature reduces settling time after a significant step in the measured power. For more information, please refer to the USB Power

Meter documentation.

How to set Step Detection mode

 Press Meas Setup 4.

 Then

Step Detection ON Off

 Then choose from the following: o

ON Enables step detection (default setting) o

OFF Disables step detection

Limits

In Power Meter Mode, Minimum and Maximum limits set a visible range of acceptable readings between these two values. Readings that are below the minimum or above the maximum are clearly visible on the power meter display.

How to set Limits

 Press Limit 8.

 Then choose from the following: o

Min Limit On Off

Toggles the display of the Minimum limit ON and OFF. o

Min Limit Value

Sets the Minimum limit power value. Power reading lower than this will exceed the limit. o

Max Limit On Off

Toggles the display of the Maximum limit ON and OFF. o

Max Limit Value

Sets the Maximum limit power value. Power reading higher than this will exceed the limit.

Power Meter Mode – Option 302 123

VVM (Vector Voltmeter) Mode – Option 308

VVM Mode measures the electrical length of cables and other devices. The 1-Port

Cable Trimming application displays the electrical length in both Magnitude and

Phase. The 2-Port Transmission measurement displays Magnitude ONLY.

124

Display for the 1-Port Cable Trimming measurement

In this Chapter

Overview ............................................................... 125

VVM Calibration ................................................... 128

Measurement Selection ....................................... 125

Frequency Selection ............................................ 126

Display Resolution ............................................... 126

IF Bandwidth ........................................................ 126

Output Power ....................................................... 126

Averaging .............................................................. 127

Single/Continuous ............................................... 128

Zeroing ................................................................... 128

Procedures

1-Port Cable Trimming Measurement .............. 129

2-Port Transmission Measurement ................... 130

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Overview

In the FieldFox, both 1-port and 2-port measurement types use a different configuration setup from the HP/Agilent 8508A Vector Voltmeter.

Typical 8508A measurement configuration – taken from the 8508A manual.

The above block diagram requires an external source and directional coupler to measure the electrical length of a DUT or cable to be trimmed. Separate paths are used to measure the Incident signal (A) and Reflected signal (B). To measure the ratio of the Reflected / Incident signals, you were required to select B/A for both the Magnitude and Phase display.

In the FieldFox, the source and directional coupler are inside the instrument.

This allows you to connect the DUT to ONLY the FieldFox RF Out port, with NO external instruments, in order to make Cable Trimming measurements.

See the FieldFox block diagram and Cable Trimming procedures beginning on

page 129.

VVM Mode Settings

Select VVM Mode before making any setting in this section.

How to select VVM Mode

 Press Mode

 Then

VVM

Measurement Selection

How to select a VVM Measurement

 Press Measure 1

 Then choose from the following: o

1-Port Cable Trimming

1-port reflection measurement. Learn how to make

this measurement on page 129.

VVM (Vector Voltmeter) Mode – Option 308 125

126

NOTE o

2-Port Transmission

2-port transmission MAGNITUDE ONLY measurement.

Learn how to make this measurement on page 130.

Frequency Selection

VVM measurements are made at a single CW frequency.

How to set Frequency

Frequency can be set to 1 Hz resolution.



Press Freq/Dist



Then

Frequency

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 After using the ▲|▼ arrows or the rotary knob, press Enter. The increment setting of the arrows is based on the current span and can NOT be changed in

VVM Mode.

 After using the keypad, select a multiplier key. Learn about multiplier

abbreviations on page 20.

Display Resolution

You can display either one digit or two digits after the decimal point for both magnitude and phase readings.

This setting survives a Preset and Mode Preset.

How to set Resolution

 Press Scale/Amptd



Then

Resolution



Then choose from: o

0.0 (default) o

0.00

IF Bandwidth

Reducing the IF receiver bandwidth reduces the effect of random noise on a measurement. However, narrower IF bandwidths also cause longer measurement times.

For highest accuracy, perform calibration and Zero AFTER changing the IF

Bandwidth. Learn about Zeroing on page 128.

How to set IF BW



Press BW 2.



Then

IF BW



Then choose from the following:

300 Hz | 1 kHz | 3 kHz | 10 kHz | 30 kHz

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Output Power

Set the power level out of the FieldFox to High, Low, or manually set power level to a value between High and Low.

For best measurement accuracy, use the Manual power setting at -15 dBm. After calibration, the power level can be decreased for amplifiers, or increased for higher dynamic range.

How to set Output Power

 Press Meas Setup 4 then

More

 Then

Output Power

High (Default setting) Sets output power to the maximum achievable power at all displayed frequency. o

Low Sets output power to approximately –27 dBm. o

Man Set output power to an arbitrary value. o

Then press

Nominal Power

o o

Then enter a value using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

Press

Enter

Averaging

Averaging helps to reduce the effects of random noise on a measurement. The

FieldFox computes the displayed value over several consecutive readings.

Average Count determines the number of readings to average. The higher the average count, the greater the amount of noise reduction.

An average counter is shown in the left edge of the screen as Avg N. This shows the number of previous readings that have been averaged together. When the counter reaches the specified count, then a ‘running average’ of the last N readings is displayed.

Average Count = 1 means there is NO averaging.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

How to set Averaging

 Press Meas Setup 4

 Then

More

 Then

Average N

where N is the current count setting.

 Enter a value using the numeric keypad. Enter 1 for NO averaging.

 Press Enter.

VVM (Vector Voltmeter) Mode – Option 308 127

128

 While Averaging is in process, press Meas Setup 4, then

More

, then

Restart

to restart the averaging.

Single or Continuous Measure

This setting determines whether the FieldFox measures continuously or only once each time the

Single

button is pressed. Use Single to conserve battery power or to allow you to save or analyze a specific measurement.

This setting can be changed at any time without affecting calibration accuracy.

How to set Single or Continuous

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then choose one of the following: o

Single

Automatically sets Continuous OFF and causes FieldFox to make

ONE measurement, then hold for the next Single key press. When a data trace is displayed, the entire trace is measured, then holds. The

Hold

annotation changes to an arrow

-->

while the measurement occurs. o

Continuous

Makes continuous measurements. This is the typical setting when battery power is not critical.

 You can also use Run / Hold +/- to toggle between Single and Continuous.

VVM Calibration

In VVM Mode, calibration is performed in the same manner as in CAT and NA

Modes. In summary, a Preset Cal is sufficient when the DUT is connected directly to the FieldFox RF Out test port. When using an adapter or jumper cable to connect the DUT, first perform a QuickCal + Load or OSL Cal before making

measurements. Learn more about these FieldFox calibrations on page 52.

To make an accurate measurement, set

Zero OFF

before calibrating.

Zeroing

When performing a Cable Trimming operation, one cable is compared to another.

After measuring the first, shorter cable, pressing Zero performs the same operation as Data->Memory, then Data/Mem, also known as Normalization. All subsequent electrical length measurements are relative to the stored measurement.

To make an accurate measurement, set

Zero OFF

before calibrating.

Zero after changing the IF Bandwidth.

How to select Zeroing

Press Meas Setup 4 o

Then

Zero

Press

Zero Off

to turn zeroing off.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

1-Port Cable Trimming Measurements

A 1-Port Cable Trimming measurement is used in a cable fabrication procedure to validate proper electrical length.

 The

receiver measures incident signal (green line) out of the source.

 The

A receiver measures reflected signal (red line) from the end of the DUT (black line).

 In VVM mode, the display ALWAYS shows ratioed

(A/R) measurements which is the electrical length of the DUT.

FieldFox Block Diagram

How to make a 1-Port Cable Trimming Measurement

Setup:

1. Press Mode then

VVM

then

1-Port Cable Trimming

2. Press Freq/Dist and enter the frequency needed for the VVM measurement.

3. Press Meas Setup 4 then

Zero OFF

4. If using an adapter or jumper cable to connect the cables to the FieldFox, press Cal 5 then select

Calibration Type

,then either

QuickCal

(+ Load) or

OSL Cal

. Follow the FieldFox calibration prompts. Learn more about VVM

calibration on page 128.

Verification: Perform the following optional steps to ensure that the FieldFox is properly calibrated. Steps 1 through 9 need only be done once to determine the difference in phase between the Open and Short standard. Once that value is known, perform steps 10 through 14 to verify a calibration.

1. Press Mode then

. Select

S11

2. Press Freq/Dist and enter start and stop frequencies that span about 40% of the VMM measurement frequency. For example, for a 1 GHz measurement, enter Start .8 GHz and Stop 1.2 GHZ

3. Perform a calibration using a cal kit (NOT Quick Cal).

4. Press Meas 1 then

Format Phase

5. Connect the Short standard to the RF OUT calibration plane.

6. Press Trace 6 then

Math and Memory

then

Data -> Mem

7. Connect the Open standard to the RF OUT calibration plane.

8. Press

Data Math

then

Data/Mem

9. Press Marker then scroll the marker to the VVM frequency. The Y-axis value is the phase difference in degrees between the Open standard and the Short standard at that frequency. Remember this value!

10. Press Mode then

VVM

11. Connect the Short standard to the RF OUT calibration plane.

VVM (Vector Voltmeter) Mode – Option 308 129

12. Press Meas Setup 4 then press

Zero

13. Connect the Open standard to the RF OUT calibration plane.

14. Confirm that magnitude measurement is less than –0.1 dB and the phase is within .1 degrees of the value from step 9.

Perform Cable Trimming:

1. Attach the shortest cable to the FieldFox RF OUT connector. This cable is the reference cable. Leave the end of the reference cable open (unterminated).

2. Press Meas Setup 4 then press

Zero

3. Remove the reference cable from the FieldFox RF OUT connector.

4. Connect an unterminated, longer cable to the FieldFox RF OUT connector.

5. Observe the displayed phase difference between the reference cable and the attached cable.

6. Carefully trim the cable until the phase shift reads zero. The attached

cable’s electrical length is now matched to the reference cable.

7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for the remaining cables to be trimmed.

2-Port Transmission Measurements

NOTE

A 2-Port Transmission measurement is used for measuring electrical length, insertion loss, gain, or isolation of a device. The FieldFox signal source is transmitted out the RF OUT connector, through the DUT, and into the RF IN connector. Both ends of the DUT must be connected to the FieldFox.

Only Magnitude, NOT Phase, is displayed.

In the following image, the gain of an amplifier is being measured.

130

2-Port Transmission measurement of an amplifier

How to make a 2-Port Transmission Measurement

1. Press Mode then

VVM

then

2-Port Transmission

2. Press Freq/Dist and enter the measurement frequency.

3. Connect the RF Out and RF In test port cables to form a Thru connection. If an adapter is needed to make the connection, the measurement results will be in error by the amount of loss in that adapter.

4. Press Meas Setup 4 then

Zero

5. Connect the DUT as in the diagram above.

6. The displayed magnitude value is the gain of the amplifier. To measure isolation of the amplifier, reverse the connection to the amplifier (RF Out to the amplifier output).

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Data Analysis Features

The following features can be used after a measurement to analyze the results.

In this Chapter

All about Markers ................................................ 131

About Delta Markers .................................... 132

Marker Table .................................................. 134

Coupled Markers ........................................... 134

Marker Colors ................................................ 135

Marker Trace.................................................. 135

Marker Format .............................................. 135

Searching with Markers ............................... 136

What Is a ‘Peak’ ............................................. 139

Marker Functions .......................................... 140

SA Noise Marker ........................................... 140

SA Band Power Marker ............................... 141

SA Frequency Counter at Marker .............. 141

All about Limit Lines .......................................... 141

Relative Limit Lines ..................................... 142

Build From Trace .......................................... 143

Limit Options ................................................. 143

How to Save and Recall Limits ................... 144

All about Trace Math ........................................... 144

About Math Operations ................................ 145

All about Markers

Markers move along the X-axis range of the measurement trace to provide a numerical readout of each measured data point. Markers also allow you to search for specific Y-axis values.

A trace can contain up to six markers.

The marker readout on the FieldFox screen displays X and Y-axis information for the current active marker ONLY.

A Marker Table can be displayed that allows you to simultaneously view X and Yaxis information for all markers.

Markers can be used in CAT, SA, and NA Modes.

How to create Markers



Press Marker.

 Then

Markers 1...6

to select a marker to activate.

 Then

Normal

to activate that marker. A marker is created on the trace in the middle of the X-axis. That marker is now active.

Data Analysis Features 131

 Then move the marker using the rotary knob, the ▲|▼ arrows, or by entering an X-axis position with the number keys.

 Then press

Enter

How to move a Marker after it is created

 Press Marker.

 Then

Markers 1...6

repeatedly until the marker of interest is selected. The

OFF, Normal, or Delta softkey is black to indicate the current setting of each marker.

 Then move the marker as when it was first created.

 Markers can also be moved using one of the marker search functions. Learn

About Delta Markers

A Delta marker provides X-and Y-axis readout information that is relative to a

‘reference’ marker.

A Delta marker is created with a ▲ (delta symbol) to distinguish it from the reference marker.

All six markers can be a Delta marker pair.

Peak search functions can be performed using delta markers.

132 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Data Analysis Features

A Delta marker and its associated reference marker. The marker readout shows the difference between the two markers in frequency and amplitude.

How to Create a Delta Marker

 Create a Normal marker and move it to the reference position.

 Press

Delta

. The marker becomes the reference marker and fixed in its X-Axis position.

 Move the Delta marker using the numeric keypad, the ▲|▼ arrows, or the rotary knob.

 Press

Enter

when finished.

How to move the Reference marker

 Press

Delta

to turn the Delta marker OFF.

 Move the marker to the new position.

 Then press

Delta

again, to turn the Delta marker back ON.

Fix the position of the Reference marker (SA Mode ONLY)

In SA mode, the reference marker can be fixed at the Y-axis position of the data trace when the marker was created, or it can ‘float’ with each sweep at the Y-axis position of the data trace. In CAT and NA mode, the reference marker always floats with the data trace. This setting applies to all SA markers.

 Create a Delta marker.

 From the Mrk ->/Tools menu, press

More

, then

Marker Properties

, then

Delta Ref Fixed

OFF – The reference marker floats at the data trace Y-axis position. o

ON – The reference marker is fixed at the Y-axis position of the data trace when the marker was created (default SA mode).

133 Marker Table

The Marker Table can be displayed at the bottom of the FieldFox screen. It can display information for up to 6 markers in a full-width window, and up to 3 markers for a half-width window (NA mode). The marker table “squeezes” the graticule area when activated.

How to display the Marker table

 Press Marker.

 Then

Marker Table On Off

Coupled Markers

Coupled Markers, available in NA Mode only, allows you to simultaneously create and move markers that have the same number for all traces. For example, when marker 2 is created on a trace, a marker 2 is created for ALL traces. When any marker 2 is moved, they all move together to the same X-axis position.

 Coupled markers are relevant only in multi-trace configurations.

 All markers are either coupled or uncoupled. There can NOT be one marker coupled and another uncoupled.

 Peak functions move the marker to the peak on the active trace, while all other markers move to the same X-axis position.

134

NOTE

Coupled Markers ON allows Marker 1 to be moved on ALL traces at the same time.

How to create Uncoupled Markers

Markers are coupled by default.

To create markers that are NOT coupled (move independently on each trace):

 Press Marker

 Then

More

 Then

Coupled Markers OFF

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Data Analysis Features

Marker Colors

As shown in the above image, in NA and CAT Modes, markers are the same color as the trace to which they are assigned. In SA Mode, the marker color is NOT the same as the trace.

Marker colors can NOT be changed.

Marker Trace (CAT and NA Modes)

The Marker Trace setting is used to move markers between the data trace and memory trace.

When Coupled Markers is ON, this setting applies to the active marker for ALL traces that are coupled. Otherwise, this setting applies to the active marker on only the active trace.

How to move a marker between traces

 With at least one marker present, press Marker then

More.

 Then select the marker to move using

Marker 1,2,3,4,5,6

 Then toggle

Marker Trace Auto Data Mem

. o

Auto - Marker resides on data trace when it is visible. Marker resides on memory trace when only IT is visible (Default setting). o

Data - Marker resides on data trace, even when not visible. o

Mem - Marker resides on memory trace, even when not visible.

Marker Trace (SA Mode)

Marker Trace determines the trace number on which a marker resides. A marker is created on, or can later be changed to, the trace number specified by the

Marker Trace selection. When changed, a marker moves to the same X-axis

location on the specified trace. Learn more about SA Traces on page 87.

How to move a marker between traces

 With two or more traces present, press Marker and Enter to create a marker.

The marker is created on the current Marker Trace selection (default setting is

1).

 Then

More

 Then select the marker to move using

Marker 1,2,3,4,5,6

 Then toggle

Marker Trace 1,2,3,4

The selected marker is moved to the specified trace.

When a marker is moved to a ‘blank’ trace (not visible) the marker moves to the same X-axis position at either the Y-axis position of the last data, or to the ZERO position.

135

136 Marker Format

The Marker Format setting, available ONLY in NA Mode, allows you to choose the format of the marker readout that appears in the upper-right corner of the screen and in the marker table. The marker format can be independent of the trace format, and can be set independently for each trace. All markers on a trace have the same marker format.

How to choose marker format

 Press Marker

 Then

More

 Then

Marker Format

 Then choose from the following:

Selection

Default

Same as displayed format

Example Y-axis value

R + jX

Complex impedance format

(3 rd

number is distance for Time Domain)

Z Magnitude

Impedance Mag.

Phase

Real

22.8Ω -j61.4Ω

287.9fF

66.08Ω

73.8°

0.2003

More

Imaginary

-0.6727

Mag & Phase

0.705, -73.7°

To view other formats, change the trace format, then select Default. Learn how

to change format on page 42.

Searching with Markers

Marker Searches are used to move markers to locations on the trace which exhibits the characteristics of the search criteria. Learn ‘What is a Peak’’ on page

139.

How to Search with Markers

The following menu structure applies to NA Mode. For keystroke information for

CAT Mode and SA Mode, see Hardkey/Softkey Menus on page 177.

 Activate the marker to be used for the search (NOT necessary with Bandwidth search.)

 Then press Mrk ->/Tools.

 Then

Marker Search

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

 Then choose one of the following: o

Tracking ON OFF

(NA Mode ONLY) o ON causes the active marker to search for the specified criteria with each new sweep. Search criteria can include: Target, Bandwidth, Peak, Min.

The searches begin with the first sweep after Tracking is turned ON, based on the current search type. The stimulus setting for a marker can

NOT be changed manually. Trk appears next to the marker number. o OFF causes a new marker search only when the search feature is reexecuted. o

Peak

Moves the active marker to the HIGHEST amplitude data point of the trace. Peak Excursion value is ignored. In SA Mode, the LO feed-through signal (0 Hz) is also ignored. o

Min

(Not available in DTF) Moves the active marker to the LOWEST amplitude data point of the trace. o

Target

(NA Mode ONLY) Enter the Target value. The marker moves to the first occurrence of the Target value to the right of its current position. The

FieldFox interpolates between measured data points to find the exact Target value to two decimal points. The interpolated X-axis value is displayed in the marker readout or marker table. Subsequent presses of the Target softkey cause the marker to move to the right to find the next occurrence of the

Target value. When the marker reaches the end of the stimulus range, it

"wraps around" and continues the search from the beginning of the stimulus range. o

Bandwidth ON OFF

(NA Mode ONLY) Use to quickly toggle BW Markers ON and OFF. When OFF, the marker table appears showing the X and Y-axis positions of all enabled markers. o

Bandwidth

(NA Mode ONLY) Specify the level in dB from the peak or valley where bandwidth is measured. o Negative numbers search for a Peak bandpass, such as a filter S21 response. o Either of the following TWO methods can be used to search for a Valley or

Notch filter, such as the S11 response of a bandpass filter. o Negative values search down from the TOP (MAX) of the response. o Positive values search up from the BOTTOM (MIN) of the notch. o If you first enter Negative, then Positive values, it may be necessary to press Marker , then

More

, then

Markers All Off.

Data Analysis Features 137

S21 of a filter with BW Markers and associated readout values.

The search criteria is -3 dB.

138

S11 of the same filter with same search criteria: -3 dB.

The same values would result from a search criteria of approximately +30.4 dB.

Press Enter and four markers are automatically created to find the first negative or positive bandpass over the displayed frequency range.

Bandwidth Search can be used ONLY with Log Mag display format.

The following six values are displayed for Bandwidth Search:

 BW: Width of the filter. (marker 2 freq) minus (marker 3 freq).

 Center: Marker 4 frequency. Mathematical midpoint between marker 2 and marker 3.

 Q: Center Frequency / Bandwidth.

 Loss: Marker 1 amplitude.

 Left: Frequency of marker 2 or 3 (to left of marker 1).

 Right: Frequency of marker 2 or 3 (to right of marker 1).

Press Back to return to the previous menu.

Press

Peak Search

then choose from the following:

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE



Peak

Moves the active marker to the HIGHEST amplitude data point of the trace. Peak Excursion value is ignored. In SA Mode, the LO feed-through signal

(0 Hz) is also ignored.



Next Peak

Moves the active marker to the next highest amplitude peak from where it currently resides.



Peak Left

Moves the active marker to the next data point to the left that meets the ‘Peak’ criteria. When no data points to the left meet the ‘Peak’ criteria, the marker does not move.



Peak Right

Moves the active marker to the next data point to the right that meets the ‘Peak’ criteria. When no data points to the right meet the ‘Peak’ criteria, the marker does not move.

The following applies to DTF Measurements ONLY:



More

then:



Track Peaks ON OFF

When Track Peaks is ON, markers will find the new peak with every sweep. While in this Mode, the markers can NOT be turned

OFF or moved.



Find 3 Peaks

Three markers are created and find the highest peaks (faults) on the trace.

What Is a ‘Peak’

You define what the FieldFox considers a "peak" by setting the Peak Threshold and Peak Excursion.

These two peak criteria settings are set individually for each trace and for each mode (CAT, SA, or NA).

These settings do NOT survive a FieldFox or Mode Preset.

The Peak Threshold and Excursion settings are NOT available in DTF measurements. To make these settings, create a non-DTF CAT mode measurement, then change the measurement back to DTF.

How to set Peak Criteria

 Press Mrk ->/Tools.

 In CAT and NA modes: o

Then

Peak Search

 In SA mode: o

Then

More

Then

Mkr Properties

 Then

Peak Criteria

 Then select the following: o

Peak Threshold

Minimum amplitude (dB). To be considered valid, the peak must be above the threshold level. The valley on either side can be below the threshold level. Default = –190 for CAT and NA Modes; –90 for SA Mode.

Data Analysis Features 139

Note: CAT mode Loss measurements are displayed in positive values. In these cases, the Peak Threshold setting is inverted. For example, Peak

Threshold = -20 will consider any peak that has less Loss than 20 dB to be valid. o

Peak Excursion

The vertical distance (dB) between the peak and the valleys on both sides. To be considered a peak, data values must "fall off" from the peak on both sides by the excursion value. Default = 0.5 dB for CAT and NA Modes; 6 dB for SA Mode.

For example, the settings for the trace in the following image are: o

Threshold: –10 dB o

Excursion: 1 dB o

Scale = 1 dB / Division.

140

Peak A = Valid Peak (Above Threshold and Excursion Settings)

Peak B = Invalid Peak (Below 1 dB Excursion Setting)

Peak C = Invalid Peak (Below –10 dB Threshold Setting)

Marker Functions

Marker functions are used to change FieldFox frequency or distance settings to those of the active marker.

How to use Marker Functions

 Activate the marker to move.

 Then press Mrk ->/Tools

 Then

Mkr ->

 Then choose one of the following: o

Mrk -> Center

(Not available in DTF or SA Mode with zero span) The center frequency of the measurement becomes the value of the active marker. The frequency span is adjusted accordingly. o

Mkr -> Delay

(NA Mode ONLY.) The group delay value of the active marker becomes the electrical delay setting of the trace. Learn how to set group

delay format on page 42. Learn more about electrical delay on page 44.

Mkr->RefLev

(SA Mode ONLY) The reference level becomes the magnitude of the active marker.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Mkr->Tune Freq

(SA Mode with Tune & Listen ONLY) The Tune & Listen

Frequency becomes the frequency of the active marker.

The following applies to DTF Measurements ONLY:

More

then: o

Marker=>Start Distance

The Start Distance of the measurement becomes the value of the active marker. Markers that would no longer appear on the screen are moved to the new Start Distance. o

Marker=>Stop Distance

The Stop Distance of the measurement becomes the value of the active marker. Markers that would no longer appear on the screen are moved to the new Stop Distance.

SA Marker Functions

The following Marker Functions are available in SA Mode ONLY:

 Noise Marker

 Band/Interval Power Marker

 Frequency Counter at Marker

 Audio Beep with Marker

Learn more about these marker functions starting on page 91.

All about Limit Lines

Limit lines are visual representations, drawn on the FieldFox screen, of the specified limits for a measurement. With this capability, you can easily compare measured data versus specifications. Optionally, you can enable an audible beep and display Pass or Fail information for each measurement.

 You can have up to as many limit line segments as there are data points for each measurement trace allowing you to test all aspects of your measurements.

 Limit lines are available in CAT Mode, NA Mode, and SA Mode. Power Meter

Mode uses different limit settings. Learn more on page 123123.

 Limit lines and limit testing are NOT allowed in NA Mode with Smith Chart or

Polar display formats.

 A simple Display Line is also available in SA Mode ONLY. Learn more on page

90.

 Limit lines can be saved and recalled with an *.sta file. Learn more on page

147. They can also be saved and recalled independently from the Limit

softkeys. Learn more on page 144.

How to Create Fixed Limit Lines

There are two ways to build a Fixed limit line:

1. Build (limits) From a Trace. Learn how on page 143

2. Enter X/Y data points into the on-screen editor. The limit line is formed as the FieldFox ‘connects the dots’ on the screen. To create frequency gaps that are NOT tested, use separate limit lines. The X-axis values for two lines can overlap.

Data Analysis Features 141

142

 Press Limit 8.

 Then

Edit Limits

. A limit line table appears.

 Use the Up / Down arrows and rotary knob to navigate the cursor to the following editable cells. o

Description - Press

Edit

, then enter a description for the limit line using the

FieldFox labeler (learn how on page 147).

Fixed/Relative – Press

Edit

to toggle between the following: o Fixed - the limit line does not move. The X/Y coordinates are absolute locations on the screen. o Relative - the limit line moves relative to the center frequency and reference level. Note: It is easiest to first create Fixed Limits, then change

this setting to Relative. Learn more on page 142.

Upper/Lower – Press

Edit

to toggle between the following: o Upper - FAILS any measured data point ABOVE the line. o Lower - FAILS any measured data point BELOW the line. o

Off/On – Press

Edit

to toggle between the following: o On - Limit line is drawn on the screen and PASS/FAIL testing occurs. o Off - Limit line is NOT drawn on the screen and testing does NOT occur. o

Frequency – Enter a numeric X-axis value of the data point. o

Amplitude – Enter a numeric Y-axis value of the data point.

 Press

Add

then choose from the following: o

Add Point

- Adds a blank X/Y data point below the cursor. o

Add Limit

- Adds a default limit line below the current limit.

 Press

Clear

then choose from the following: o

Clear Point

- Removes the X/Y data point on which the cursor resides. o

Clear Limit

- Removes the limit Line on which the cursor resides. o

Clear All

- Removes ALL limit lines.

 Press <Back to return to the Limit menu.

Relative Limit Lines

Relative limit lines are X/Y coordinates that are referenced to the center frequency (X-axis) and Reference level (Y-axis).

Use relative limits to test devices or signals that are identical except for the center frequency or amplitude. With relative limit lines in place, you change the center frequency of the measurement and the limits look as though they are in the same location.

The same is true for Reference Level. When you expect to measure a different power level, instead of changing the Y-axis value of all of the fixed limits, simply change to relative limits. The limits will then remain a constant Y-axis distance from the Reference Level.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Each limit line can be changed at any time from Fixed to Relative, and Relative to

Fixed.

How to Create a Relative Limit Line

The easiest way to create a Relative limit line is to create a Fixed Limit at a

specific center frequency and reference level. Learn how on page 141. Then

change the limit line to Relative. The X/Y data points will be re-calculated relative to the center frequency and reference level.

Build From Trace

A limit line can be built from an existing trace. One X/Y point is made from each measured data point. Then, using an offset value, you can shift the limit line UP for upper limits or DOWN for lower limits.

Once limit lines have been built from the trace, changes that you make to the trace, such as frequency range, do NOT change the limits. However, the limit line properties can be edited just like standard limit lines.

NOTE

A lower limit line (red) built from the trace (yellow) shifted down 5 dB.

How to Build Limit Lines from a Trace

Build from Trace is NOT allowed for traces with more than 1001 data points.

 Select the trace from which limits will be built.

 Press Limit 8.

 Then

Edit Limits

 Then

Build From Trace

. A limit line table appears.

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows to select ON.

 Use

Offset

to shift the limit line UP or DOWN. Learn how below.

Limit Options

How to set Limit Options

 Press

Exit

if the limit table is visible.

 Then

Options

Data Analysis Features 143

144

 Then choose from the following: o

Beep

On Pass

Audible beep sounds when a sweep passes.

On Fail

Audible beep sounds when a sweep fails. o

Off

No audible beep sounds. o

Warning On Off

Shows

Pass

Fail

indication on the display with each sweep. Data points that fail are highlighted. o

Limit Type

Offset

Shifts the limit line up or down. Enter an offset value using the rotary knob, the ▲|▼ arrows, or by entering a value with the number keys. o Enter a positive offset to shift the limit line UP, usually used with UPPER limits. o Enter a negative offset to shift the limit line DOWN, usually used with

LOWER limits. o

Margin

Shifts the limit line up or down like an offset, but only virtually. The limit line does NOT appear to move. Enter a Margin value using the rotary knob, the ▲|▼ arrows, or by entering a value with the number keys. o Enter a positive margin to virtually shift the limit line UP. o Enter a negative margin to virtually shift the limit line DOWN.

How to Save and Recall Limits

In addition to saving and recalling limits with an *.sta file, limit lines can also be saved and then recalled independent of the current mode or measurement. Use this feature to recall and apply existing limit lines to measurements with different settings or even a different frequency range.

Limit line files can be loaded into the FieldFox Data Link Software. Learn how in the help file that is included in the Data Link software.

How to Save and Recall Limits

 Press Save/Recall then

Select Device

to set the Device (Internal, SD card, or

USB flash drive) to be used for the Save or Recall. Learn more on page 149.

 Then press Limit.

 Then choose from the following: o

Save Limits

After limit lines have been defined, this saves the line definition to a file on the specified device. o

Recall Limits

Recalls a limit Line definition from the specified device.

All about Trace Math

Trace Math is available ONLY in CAT and NA Modes, but not in DTF measurements.

A trace is a series of measurement data points that are connected to form a line.

This ‘live’ data trace is updated as data points are measured.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Data Analysis Features

A memory trace is a live trace that has been stored in the FieldFox volatile memory. It then becomes static, meaning it is not updated with measurements. It can be displayed on the screen by itself, or with a data trace for comparison purposes.

 In NA mode, memory traces are the same color as data traces, but muted

(duller).

 In CAT mode, the data trace is displayed in yellow and the memory trace is displayed in blue.

How to display data and memory traces

 Press Trace 6.

 Then

Data->Mem

to store the current live trace into memory. A ‘beep’ sounds to confirm the data trace has been saved to memory. There is no display annotation that indicates that the memory trace has been stored. o

Press

Data

to view only the data trace. o

Press

Memory

to view only the memory trace. o

Press

Data & Memory

to view both the live trace and the stored memory trace.

How to perform Trace Math

Trace math is performed between a live trace and a memory trace. When one of the following math operations are selected, the yellow data trace displays the current measurement with the selected trace math applied. The math operation symbol indicated below in [brackets] is displayed on the lower left corner of the screen.

 Press Trace 6.

 If not already stored, press

Data->Mem

to store the current live trace into memory.

 Then

Data Math

 Then choose one of the following: o

Data + Memory

[D+M] Current measurement data is added to the data in memory. o

Data – Memory

[D-M] Current measurement data is subtracted from the data in memory. o

Data / Memory

[D/M] Current measurement data is divided by the data in memory. o

Math Off

[Data] Displays trace data with NO math applied.

About Math Operations

Data / Memory and Data - Memory math operations are performed on complex linear data before it is formatted. Because data is often viewed in log format, it is not always clear which of the two math operations should be used. Remember: dividing linear data is the same as subtracting logarithmic data. The following illustrates, in general, when to use each operation.

145

Use Data / Memory for normalization purposes, such as when comparing traces

"before" and "after" a change is made or when measuring trace noise. In the following table, the Data/Mem values intuitively show the differences between traces. It is not obvious what Data-Mem is displaying.

Values to compare Data/Mem Data-Mem

0.5 dB and 0.6 dB

0.5 dB and 0.7 dB

0.1 dB

0.2 dB

-39 dB

-33 dB

Use Data - Memory to show the relative differences between two signals. Use for comparison of very small signals, such as the S11 match of two connectors.

In the following table, Data/Mem shows both pairs of connectors to have the same 2 dB difference. However, the second pair of connectors have much better

S11 performance (–50 and –52) and the relative significance is shown in the

Data-Mem values.

Values to compare Data/Mem

–10 dB and –12 dB

–50 dB and –52 dB

2 dB

Data-Mem for S-parameters with

20 *log relationship

-24 dB

-64 dB

Data-Mem for absolute power levels with 10*log relationship

-14 dB

-54 dB

146 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

File Management

The FieldFox can save any of the following types of files:



Current settings and calibration



Trace data (*csv and *.S1P)



Picture of the FieldFox screen

In addition, files can be saved to the internal memory, a USB Flash drive, or a microSD card.

In this Chapter

Save Files .............................................................. 147

Recall Files ............................................................ 149

Set File Type and Device ................................... 149

Manage Files ........................................................ 151

Manage Folders ................................................... 152

Edit Keywords ...................................................... 152

Prefixes for Filenames ....................................... 153

Saving and Recalling Files

NOTE FieldFox State files are intended to be recalled on the same instrument model on which they were saved. Sometimes you may able to recall them within model families. An error will result when trying to recall a state file that was saved on a different model family.

The FieldFox model families are:

 N991x (VNA/SA) model family

 N992x (VNA) model family

 N993x (SA) model family

Save Files

How to Save a File



Press Save/Recall 9.

 Then

Save

 At the top of the current ‘labeler’ screen (see following image) check the File

Type to save and Device (Internal, USB, Storage Card) to which the file is

saved. Learn how to change these settings on page 149.

 Then use the labeler to specify a filename.

File Management 147

How to use the FieldFox labeler

The FieldFox labeler is used to edit or change the current filename. It is also used for many other labeling functions, such as creating a title, prefix, and keyword to display on the FieldFox screen.

 Press

Select

to add the cursor character to the end of the existing filename.

 Press

Backspace

to erase the last character from the current filename.

 Press

Clear

to erase the current filename.

 The preselected keywords (File, Site, and so forth) can be selected just like a

single character. These keywords can also be edited. Learn more on page 152.

148

The FieldFox labeler. The current filename is GF2 . The cursor is on the custom GF keyword. The file will be saved to USB (flash drive). File Type is “Picture”.

How to move the cursor

 Use the rotary knob to move cursor on the same row. The cursor will change rows when it comes to a row end.

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows to move the cursor up and down the rows.

When the current filename is complete

 Press

Done

to save the file to the specified filename. If the filename already exists, a warning is displayed.

 Press

Cancel

to close the labeler without saving a file.

 If the filename already exists, you are prompted to choose from the following: o

Press

Yes

to overwrite the existing file. o

Press

Cancel

to edit the filename.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

Recall Files

State files and Trace + State files (*.sta) are the only file type that can be recalled by the FieldFox.

ALL FieldFox instrument settings for ALL Modes are saved and recalled in a

*.sta file. If error correction is ON in CAT or NA Mode, then calibration data is also saved and recalled.

If error correction is OFF (CalRdy is active), calibration data is NOT saved in the

*.sta file. When a Trace + State file is recalled on a FieldFox other than the one it was saved on, differences in the CalRdy calibration data my result in differences between the displayed traces.

How to Recall an *.sta File

Before recalling a file, first set File Type to State or Trace + State, and also

Select Device from which the file will be recalled.

 Press Save/Recall 9.

 Then

Recall

 Navigate to the file to be recalled using the Up/Down arrow keys.

 Then

Recall File

or Enter .

Set File Type and Select Device

The following File TYPE and DEVICE settings are used to determine the type of file to save, and the location to be used for all file operations.

These two settings remain through an instrument preset, but are reset to the default values when the FieldFox power is shutdown.

Select Device (location of File Save/Recall)

 Press Save/Recall 9.



Then

Select Device

to set the LOCATION where the file is to be saved.

Choose from the following: o

Internal

Saves/Recalls files to/from the FieldFox internal memory. To

specify a folder, first select Manage Folders (learn how on page 152). The

Data Link software will read data ONLY from the \UserData folder. o

SD Card

Saves/Recalls files to/from the microSD card (not included),

inserted in the card slot. See FieldFox Tour on page 16. Only the root folder

is available. o

USB

Saves/Recalls files to or from a USB Flash drive (not included) that is inserted in one of the USB connectors. Only the root folder is available.

Insert only ONE USB Flash Drive in the FieldFox when saving or copying files.

How to set File Type

State files are the only file type that can be recalled by the FieldFox.



Press Save/Recall 9.



Then

File Type

. Choose one of the following:

File Management 149

150

State

Saves ALL FieldFox instrument settings for ALL Modes to a *.sta file.

If a calibration is ON in CAT or NA Mode, calibration data is also saved.

This file can be opened ONLY by a FieldFox. o

Trace + State

Saves the current trace and instrument settings to a *.sta file.

In SA Mode, all traces are saved. This file can be opened ONLY by a

FieldFox. When recalled, the FieldFox sweep is set to Hold. o

Picture

Saves a 640 x 453 pixel image of the FieldFox screen to a *.png file.

The picture does NOT include the softkeys. o

Data (S1P) / (2P)

Saves CAT and NA Mode trace data to an *.S1P or *.S2P file, depending on the active measurement. This file format is used by CAE programs such as Agilent's Microwave Design System (MDS) and Advanced

Design System (ADS). It can also be imported into spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel.

About SNP Files

 Phase data is NOT available for port 2 (RF IN port).

 The SNP file includes header information and the following data: o

S1P - saves 1-port (receiver) data for the active data trace. *.s1p Files contain 1 stimulus value and 1 S-parameter (total of 3 scalar values)

Stim Real(Sxx) Imag(Sxx)

S2P (NA Mode ONLY) - saves data for two S-parameters (S11, S21) if they are both displayed. *.s2p Files contain 1 stimulus value and 4 S-parameters

(total of 9 scalar values)

Stim Real(S11) Imag(S11) Real(S21) Imag(S21) Real(S12) Imag(S12) Real(S22) Imag(S22)

Zeros are returned for S12, and S22 parameters and for S21 phase. When both are corrected, data is returned for both S-parameters, even when not displayed. When the format is Mag/Phase, zero-filled data appears as 0 dB and 0 degrees. When the format is Real/Imaginary, zero-filled data appears as (1,0).

 Data is returned with the correction type that is applied for each S-parameter.

The correction type for each S-parameter is annotated in the header.

 Only the data trace is saved – not the memory trace.

 The data for all S-parameters are written to an S2P file according to the format of Trace 1. In Smith Chart or Polar format, files are saved Real/Imaginary format. All other trace formats are saved in Mag/Phase format.

 Trace Math is ignored when saving data to an SNP file. o

Data (csv)

Saves trace data from the current Mode to a *.csv file. This format can be imported into spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel. o In SA Mode, all visible data traces are saved. Each trace is saved to a separate column that is labeled with the Trace State. o In CAT and NA Modes, only the data trace is saved – not the memory trace. o In Power Meter and VVM Mode, NO data is saved.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Image of header information and three rows of data from a *.csv file saved in SA

Mode with 4 traces visible. Column A is always the frequency at which the data is measured.

Manage Files

Files that are stored in the FieldFox internal memory, microSD card, and USB

Flash drive, can be copied to another device or deleted.

How to Manage files

 Press Save/Recall 9.

 Then

Select Device

to select the location (Internal, USB, or microSD Card) of the file to copy or delete.

NOTE

When selecting Internal, it may also be necessary to first select Manage Folders to specify an active folder which contains the files to copy or delete.

 Then

More

 Then

Manage Files

 Then choose from the following:

NOTE For Copy File and Copy All Files, files are always copied to a subdirectory titled

Copy_<date.time stamp> of when the file was copied. For example,

“Copy_June.27.2013-00.40.47”. A new subdirectory is created every time a file is copied. Files can NOT be copied to other folders. To get a file to a different folder, it must be saved to the specified folder. o

Copy File

Select a file to copy. Then select a device to copy the file to.

Choose from Internal, USB (must be inserted), or SD Card (must be inserted). o

Copy All Files

All files that appear will be copied. Then select a device to copy the file to. Choose from Internal, USB (must be inserted), or SD Card

(must be inserted). o

Delete File

The selected file is deleted after a warning prompt is displayed.

NOTE Insert only ONE USB Flash Drive in the FieldFox when saving or copying files.

File Management 151

152 Manage Folders

You can create new folders, delete old folders, and select the active folder to which files can be saved. The Parent folder [..] is listed when not in the root directory.

How to Manage Folders

 Press Save/Recall 9.

 Then

More

 Then

Manage Folders

 Then choose from the following: o

Change Folder

Changes the active folder to which files can be saved. The active device and current folder is displayed at the top of the screen. Use the

▲|▼ arrows to highlight a folder within the current folder. Each time the

Change Folder softkey is pressed, the highlighted folder becomes the active folder. o

Create Folder

A new folder is created in the current folder. Select a name for the new folder from one of the displayed keywords: You can change these keywords using the following Edit Keywords function. o

Delete Folder

The selected folder and its contents are deleted after a warning prompt is displayed. A “Parent” folder or system folder can NOT be deleted.



Press

Exit

when finished.

Edit Keywords

The preselected keywords (FILE, SITE, and so forth) can be edited to meet your specific needs. Your keywords will remain in the FieldFox until you change them.

Keywords are limited to 30 characters.

How to edit keywords

 Press Save/Recall 9.

 Then

More

 Then

Edit Keywords

 Then

Next Page

and

Previous Page

to view all keywords.

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows to select a keyword to edit.

 When a keyword is selected, then press

Edit

 Then choose from the following: o

Press

Select

to add the cursor character to the end of the selected keyword. o

Press

Backspace

to erase the last character from the end of the selected keyword. o

Press

Clear

to erase the selected keyword.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

File Management

How to move the cursor:

 Use the rotary knob to move the cursor along the same row. The cursor will change rows when it comes to a row end.

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows to move the cursor up and down between rows.

When the selected keyword is complete:

 Press

Done

to save all keywords and close the Edit Keywords labeler. These keywords will exist on the FieldFox until changed.

 Press

Cancel

to close the labeler without saving changes.

Prefixes for Filenames

A prefix is used as a default filename to which characters can be added. The prefix can be customized, and quickly enabled or disabled. When enabled, the current prefix is automatically entered as the start of a filename when performing a Save operation.

How to enable and disable the current Prefix

 Press Save/Recall 9.

 Then

More

 Then

Prefix ON OFF

The current selection is underlined.

How to edit the current Prefix

 Press Save/Recall 9.

 Then

More

 Then

Prefix

 Then choose from the following: o

Press

Select

to add the cursor character to the end of the Prefix. o

Press

Backspace

to erase the last character from the end of the Prefix. o

Press

Clear

to erase the Prefix. o

The preselected keywords (File, Site, and so forth) can be selected just like a single character. These keywords can also be edited. See Edit Keywords.

How to move the cursor

 Use the rotary knob to move cursor on the same row.

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows to move the cursor up and down the rows.

When the Prefix is complete

 Press

Done

to save the Prefix and close the labeler. This Prefix will exist on the FieldFox until it is changed.

 Press

Cancel

to close the labeler without saving changes.

153

Printing

You can NOT print the measurement display directly from the FieldFox to a printer. You can save a Picture file to a USB Flash Drive or microSD card and then print from any computer. Measurements can also be printed using the

FieldFox Data Link software.

154 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

System Settings

In this Chapter

Run/Hold ............................................................... 155

Preset ..................................................................... 156

Volume Control .................................................... 156

Display Settings ................................................... 156

Brightness........................................................ 157

Colors ............................................................... 157

Trace Width ..................................................... 158

Title ................................................................... 158

Edit Keywords ................................................ 158

Full Screen Mode ............................................ 158

Preferences

Quick Settings Table ...................................... 159

Save and Reset Preferences ......................... 160

Language .......................................................... 160

Battery Saver .................................................. 161

System Configuration

Options (Licensing) ........................................ 161

GPS .................................................................... 162

Frequency Reference Source ........................ 164

Security Level .................................................. 164

Date and Time Settings .................................. 165

LAN Settings .................................................... 166

Power ON ......................................................... 167

Service Diagnostics

Erase User Data .............................................. 167

FieldFox Internal Temperatures .................... 14

Run/Hold

The Run/Hold key determines whether the FieldFox sweeps continuously or does NOT sweep, but holds the display results of the last sweep that was performed.

Use Hold to conserve battery power or to allow you to save or analyze the results of a specific measurement sweep.

The current sweep mode is shown on the screen as:



Continuous

System Settings 155

156

 Hold

Hold



-->

is displayed while a single sweep occurs.

How to perform a single sweep while in Hold

 Press Sweep 3.

 Then choose one of the following: o

Single

Automatically sets Continuous OFF (Hold) and causes FieldFox to make ONE measurement sweep, then hold for the next Single key press. o

SA Mode ONLY – With

Continuous OFF

each successive Run/Hold press also causes a single sweep. o

Continuous ON OFF

Makes continuous sweeps. This is the typical setting when battery power is not critical.

Preset

The Preset key restores the FieldFox measurement settings to a known condition.

You can preset the entire instrument, or just the current Mode (CAT, SA, Power

Meter, NA.)

When Preset, the FieldFox performs a calibration for use in CAT and NA Modes.

Learn more on page 61.

The following settings always survive Preset and Mode Preset:



External Reference state (page 164)



SA Units (page 72)



SA Correction states (page 75)



VVM Display Resolution (page 126)



Marker Peak Excursion and Threshold (page 139)



Volume Control

How to Preset the FieldFox

 Press Preset.

 Then choose one of the following: o

Preset

Returns ALL Modes to the factory default settings. o

Mode Preset

Returns only the current Mode to the factory default settings.

The current settings for all other Modes remain.

Volume Control

System volume control is a FieldFox global setting which sets speaker volume for

ALL success beeps, key press clicks, and individual features that use the

FieldFox speaker, such as SA Mode Tune and Listen.

The volume control setting remains through a FieldFox Preset. To cause your volume control setting to remain through a FieldFox shutdown, save the setting

as a Preference. Learn how on page 159.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

How to set FieldFox Volume Control

 Press System 7

 Then

Volume

 Then use the ▲|▼ arrows, the rotary knob, or numeric keypad to enter a value between 0 (lowest volume) and 100 (highest volume).

 Press

Volume

again and select Mute to quickly turn OFF the speaker volume.

Press

Volume

again to set volume ON to the previous volume control.

Display Settings

NOTE

You can adjust the FieldFox for optimum viewing in a wide range of lighting conditions.

Display settings remain through a FieldFox Preset. To cause the display brightness, color settings, and trace width to remain through a FieldFox

shutdown, save the display settings as Preferences. Learn how on page 159..

Clean the transflective screen with gentle and minimal wiping using Isopropyl alcohol applied to a lint-free cloth.

Display Brightness

Change the brightness of the background.

How to set Display Colors

 Press System.

 Then

Display

 Then

Brightness

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows, the rotary knob, or numeric keypad to enter a value between 0 and 100%.

Display Colors

Change Display Colors to alter the viewing scheme.

How to set Display Colors

 Press System.

 Then

Display

 Then

Display Colors

 Then choose one of the following:

Indoor

Outdoor Dusk

Outdoor Clouds

System Settings 157

158

Outdoor Sun

Night Vision

Trace Width

You can set width of all displayed traces on the FieldFox. This may allow better viewing or enhance the look of screen images. This setting can be saved with

Preferences.

How to set Trace Width

 Press System.

 Then

Display

 Then

Display Colors

 Then

More

 Then

Trace Width

 Then choose one of the following: o

Normal

- Standard width. o

Wide

- Enhanced width.

Title

A custom title can be made to appear in the upper-left corner of the FieldFox screen. The title can contain up to approximately 65 alpha-numeric characters.

To view the Title area, see the Screen Tour on page 19.

How to add or edit a Title

 Press System.

 Then

Display

 Then

Title

 Then enter or edit a title using the FieldFox labeler. This is the same labeler

function that is used to name files. Learn how to use the labeler on page 147.

 Then

Title ON OFF

to make the title appear and disappear from the screen.

Edit Keywords

During a file save operation, keywords can be quickly appended to other text to create unique filenames. The Edit Keywords feature allows you to create custom

keywords. Learn all about Edit Keywords on page 152.

Full Screen Mode

Full Screen Mode maximizes the display of trace. The screen annotations and the soft keys are removed.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

System Settings

How to set Full Screen Mode

 Press System.

 Then

Full Screen

To Exit full screen Mode, press any key.

Preferences

FieldFox preferences are settings that survive a shutdown. When your FieldFox is turned OFF, then back ON, these settings remain. All preference settings can

be restored to their factory defaults. Learn how on page 160

There are two ways to make FieldFox preference settings:

 From softkey selections throughout the FieldFox menu structure. Do this to temporarily try a setting, then press Save Current Settings (as preferences).

Learn how in the next section.

 From the Quick Settings table.

Quick Settings Table

All preferences can be set from the Quick Settings table. They are immediately saved as Preferences when

Done

is pressed.

How to view and change Preference Quick Settings

 Press System 7

 Then

Preferences

 Then

Preferences

 Press

Next Page

and

Previous Page

to view all settings.

 To change a setting: o

Use the ▲|▼ arrows to highlight a setting. o

Then press

Edit

. The current setting changes to

yellow.

Some settings require you to press a softkey to change the value. Otherwise, use the numeric keypad, ▲|▼ arrows, or rotary knob to change the value. o

When finished changing a value, press

Done Edit

When finished changing ALL preferences, press

Done

. All changes are immediately saved as Preferences.

 To exit the editing session without saving changes, press Esc at any time.

Learn more about these preference settings:

Setting Learn more…

Language on page 160

Display Settings

on page 157

Audio

on page 156

159

160

Date and Time

on page 165

GPS on page 162

CAT Distance Units on page 37

Battery Saver on page 161

Save and Reset Preferences

All preference settings can be made at one time from the Quick Settings table.

All settings that can be saved as preferences (except Battery Saver) can also be made from individual softkey selections throughout the FieldFox menu structure.

However, they ONLY remain set through a FieldFox shutdown when the current settings are saved as preferences.

The table above shows a list of all of these settings and where they are discussed in this User’s Guide.

How to save current settings as Preferences

 Using softkeys, configure the settings as you would like them to remain.

 Press System

 Then

Preferences

 Then

Save Current Settings

There is a beep when your settings have been saved.

 Press

Reset Preferences

to restore the factory default settings.

Language

Choose the language in which to display FieldFox softkeys and other messages.

How to select a Language

 Press System 7.

 Then

Preferences

 Then

Language

 Then choose from the following: o

English

Espanol

– Spanish o

Deutsch

– German o

Italiano

– Italian o

Francais

– French o

Russian

Japanese

Chinese

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

System Settings

Turkish

Battery Saver

When the battery saver is OFF, the source power is left ON at the end of the sweep which consumes more power. This feature is used in CAT, NA and VVM modes.

How to set Battery Saver

 Press System

 Then

Preferences

 Then

Battery Saver

ON – Default setting. To conserve battery power, the RF source power is turned OFF at the end of each CAT, NA, and VVM Mode sweep. This behavior does not impact FieldFox measurements. o

OFF – Source power is kept ON at all times, including during trigger Hold mode and between single sweep acquisitions. The RF source stays at the stop frequency until another sweep begins. This provides a constant, uninterrupted RF output from the RF OUT port. This behavior also provides the highest trace stability sweep-to-sweep which may only be evident while using either single sweep or Run/Hold. With Battery Save OFF, the use of a full battery charge is reduced by approximately 45 minutes.

System Configuration

Options (Licensing)

You can view and install options on your FieldFox. See all available options on

page 8.

How to view the Installed Options

 Press System

 Then

System Configuration

 Then

Options(Licensing)

 Then

Show Options

The currently installed options are listed.

How to Install Options

A .lic file must already be on a USB Flash Drive. To learn how to obtain a .lic file, visit: http://www.agilent.com/find/softwarelicense

Insert the USB Flash Drive in the FieldFox.

 Press System.

 Then

System Configuration

 Then

Options

 Then

Install Options

The FieldFox reads, validates, then installs the options.

161

NOTE

 Press and hold the power button to shutdown, then restart the FieldFox.

For more information about Licensing, see the FieldFox Service Manual at www.agilent.com/find/fieldfoxsupport.

GPS

GPS (Global Positioning System) allows you to ‘stamp’ each data trace with your physical position in latitude/longitude/elevation format. This can be useful when making measurements on cell towers or other antennas at remote locations.

This feature is usable ONLY with the GPS receiver that is shipped with Microsoft

“Streets and Trips” and “AutoRoute” (versions 2010 and later). The GPS receiver is NOT available from Agilent. Only the GPS USB receiver is used with the

FieldFox. Therefore, it is NOT necessary to purchase the very latest version of the map software.

 GPS can be used in all FieldFox modes.



Your GPS settings can be saved with Preferences. Learn more on page 159.

How to make GPS settings

 Press System 7

 Then

System Configuration

 Then

GPS

 Then choose from the following: o

OFF

- Disable GPS (default setting). o

External

- Enable GPS using an external, customer-supplied, USB dongle device. When enabled, a check is made to detect a USB GPS device at the

USB connectors. When a device is detected, a search is made for satellites overhead. The GPS works best when outdoors and in full view of the open sky. When several satellites are found, the following screen appears and is updated frequently:

162

 The left portion of the screen shows satellites and the corresponding number on the adjacent Satellite Power chart.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE



Sync Clock ON OFF

Enable and disable the synchronization of the FieldFox internal clock to the GPS UTC time standard.

The GPS Sync setting has the same restrictions as the Date and Time setting.

Time can be changed BACK no more than once a day and no more than 6 hours

at a time. Learn more on page 165.

The FieldFox clock is synchronized and updated approximately every second to the time of the GPS clock. Learn how to set the local time zone on

page 164.

OFF

The FieldFox clock is NOT synched with GPS. When set to OFF after

Sync was ON, the date and time does NOT revert back to the settings before the clock was synchronized.



Display ON OFF

Enable and disable the GPS display on the FieldFox main window.



Lat/Lon Format

Change the format of the GPS display on the FieldFox screen.

Choose from: o

ddd°mm’ ss.sss”

degrees, minutes, seconds (default setting) o

ddd°mm.mmmmm’

degrees, minutes, fractional minutes o

ddd.ddddddd°

decimal degrees



Elevation Unit

Choose from: o

(Meters) o

Feet

GPS Status

With GPS enabled and a device detected, the following is displayed at the top of the FieldFox screen:

System Settings

In the above image, the following icons show if the FieldFox is locked on satellites:

- GPS ON and locked on satellites

- GPS ON, but NOT locked on satellites

- GPS ON, but no GPS receiver is present or detected

Saving Data with GPS Enabled

GPS position and clock data are included when data is saved with the following files types: *.csv, *.SnP, State, State+Trace data save.

A warning is shown if the GPS is ON but unlocked at time of save, or if the GPS feature is ON but no GPS is physically present at time of save.

The following is a sample S1P file with GPS information:

!GPS Latitude: 38 28.87717 N

!GPS Longitude: 122 42.66625 W

!GPS TimeStamp: 06/25/2010 16:24:48

163

164

NOTE

!GPS Seconds Since Last Read: 2

Frequency Reference Source

The FieldFox can phase lock with an external 10 MHz reference signal. When a high-stability 10 MHz reference signal is available, this can improve the accuracy and stability of measurements in CAT, NA, and SA Modes.

The External Reference setting will survive a FieldFox or Mode Preset and is saved as part of the Instrument State.

How to set External Reference

Connect the 10 MHz External Reference to the EXT TRIG/EXT REF BNC connector on the FieldFox top panel. Learn about External Trigger Input on

page 85.

 Press System 7

 Then

System Configuration

 Then

Frequency Ref

 Then

Freq Ref Source Int Ext

The FieldFox may take up to 10 seconds to lock to a valid External Reference source.

When switched to Ext, if the FieldFox does NOT find an appropriate signal with which it can lock, then

Ext Ref UNLOCKED

is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen. This can occur when any of the following conditions exist:

 NO external reference signal is present.

 A low-level external reference signal is present.

 A very high-level external reference signal is present.

 The external reference is off-frequency.

For best results, the signal should be between –5 dBm and +5 dBm.

Security Level

For security reasons, you can prevent frequency information from appearing on the FieldFox while in SA, NA, or CAT modes.

How to set Security Level

 Press System 7

 Then

System Configuration

 Then

Security Level

 Then choose from the following: o

None

All frequency settings are visible. o

High

Frequency information is blanked from the following: o Display annotation o Softkeys

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

NOTE

TIP

o Marker display and marker table o Calibration properties o All settings tables o Limit line tables o All saved .png files o

Any of the following will re-display frequency information: o Set to

None

, Preset, Mode Preset, or FieldFox restart.

Date and Time, Format, and Time Zone Settings

Set the local date and time, Date and Time format, and Time Zone that is shown on the FieldFox screen. The Date and Time is also used to identify files that are saved.

The Date and Time can also be set by synchronizing with GPS satellites. Learn

System Settings 165

LAN Settings

Configure the LAN settings to be used to communicate with the Data Link

Software. Learn more at: www.agilent.com/find/fieldfoxsupport .

166

NOTE

LAN Settings

How to configure the LAN settings

The first three ‘Current...’ settings can NOT be edited.

 Press System 7.

 Then

System Configuration

 Then

LAN

 Use the ▲|▼ arrows to select one of the following, then press

Edit

. o

Hostname Change the name that can be used to address the FieldFox if your server supports this feature. The default hostname is generated automatically. o

Obtain IP Choose from: o DHCP - IP Address is assigned dynamically. If your server supports this feature, the IP Address for the FieldFox is assigned each time it is started. o Static - Set the IP Address manually. The Address remains until you change it. o

Static IP Address - Enter the IP Address – including periods - in the format nnn.nnn.nnn.nnn o

Static Subnet Mask - Enter the Subnet Mask – including periods - in the format nnn.nnn.nnn.nnn o

Static Gateway - Enter the Static Gateway – including periods - in the format nnn.nnn.nnn.nnn o

Apply Settings Choose from: o Power Up The above settings take effect when the FieldFox is started. o Now The above settings take effect immediately.

To make the LAN settings persist after power up, toggle Apply Settings to Now then back to Power Up. You should see a message indicating that the LANconfig file was saved.

 Press

Done Edit

when finished.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

System Settings

Power ON

When the FieldFox is without a power source, this setting allows the FieldFox to power ON as soon as a charged battery or the DC Adapter is inserted without pressing the power button.

How to set Power ON

 Press System 7

 Then

System Configuration

 Then

Power ON

 Then choose from the following: o

Auto

The FieldFox will power ON when a charged battery or the DC Adapter is inserted. o

Manual

The FieldFox will power ON only when the power button is pressed.

Service Diagnostics

 The Service diagnostics menu is generally used to display service-related information. To access these menu items, press System 7 then

Service

Diagnostics

System Information

The System information table shows important information about your FieldFox.

The following is the most useful information:

 Model Number – FieldFox model

 Serial Number – Identification number of your FieldFox

 Firmware Release – The currently installed version of software. Check to see if you have the latest firmware at: www.agilent.com/find/fieldfoxsupport

 Network Identity – The network name and current IP address of your

FieldFox.

 NA Factory Cal - The NA Factory (CalReady) Calibration shows the date and time that the factory cal was performed for each test port and the Thru connection. The format is P1 <date time>, P2 <date time>, P1-P2 <date time>.

The factory calibration is updated when you send your FieldFox to Agilent for

Instrument Calibration. Learn more on page 167.

Error Log

The Error Log shows the information that has appeared on the FieldFox screen.

The most recent information is at the top of the table.

Press

Clear Errors

to erase this information.

Battery

Learn about this table on page 169.

167 Internal Temperatures

Learn all about this table and the importance of the internal FieldFox

temperatures on page 14.

Erase User Data

All data that you have written to the FieldFox can be erased with the press of a button. You would do this if your FieldFox is located in a secure environment and must be routinely erased of sensitive data.

All data is deleted from the FieldFox internal “UserData” partition. This includes all State files and Trace + State files (*.sta), all Data files (*.csv, *.snp), all Picture files (*.png), all Cal Kit files, and all Cable files.

External media that is inserted (mini-SD card or USB flash drive) is NOT erased.

The "Lost Clusters" folder and files is NOT erased because it is part of the file system housekeeping.

How to Erase User Data

 Press System 7.

 Then

Service Diagnostics

 Then

Advanced

 Then

Erase User Data

 Then

Confirm Erase

 Then the following occurs: o

All data files and folders are deleted from the “UserData” partition. o

A large file of 0s is written to all of the free blocks on the partition. o

The large file is deleted. All blocks released by deleting this file are now available for use. o

The FieldFox is rebooted, which manages the newly-freed data and re-writes the factory cal kits and cable files.

168 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Working with the Lithium-Ion Battery

In this Chapter

Viewing Battery Charge Status .......................... 169

Charging the Battery ........................................... 169

Reconditioning the Battery ................................ 172

Battery Care ......................................................... 173

Maximizing Battery Life ..................................... 173

Battery Disposal................................................... 174

Conserving Battery Power ................................... 12

Battery Safety Considerations........................... 187

Viewing Battery Charge Status

You can view the battery charge status in the following ways:



Icons in the upper right of the front panel screen.

 Battery screen - select System then

Service Diagnostics

then

Battery

 Built-in battery gauge. Learn more in the following section.

Front Panel Icons

Icon Status

Connected to external power through the AC/DC adapter. Battery installed and charging. The amount of charge is indicated by the number of bars shown.

Battery not charging with 84% battery life remaining.

Battery fully charged. A fully charged battery MAY NOT read 100%. Learn

more on page 172, Reconditioning the Battery.

Service Diagnostics – Battery Screen

The Battery screen displays the following information. To access the screen, select System then

Service Diagnostics

then

Battery

Additional battery information is available using SCPI commands.

1. Status – Fully charged, No battery, Charging, Empty, or Discharging.

2. External DC Supply – True or False indicates if an external DC supply is connected.

3. Battery Present – True or False indicates if a battery is installed.

NOTE Items 4 through 8 are read directly from the battery. The information is based on the battery’s internal sensors and memory.

4. Voltage – measured by the battery’s sensor.

Working with the Lithium-Ion Battery 169

170

5. Current – amount of current being consumed when operating from internal battery. If battery is charging, indicates amount of charging current.

6. Battery Temperature – internal temperature of the battery as measured by a sensor embedded in the battery.

7. Present Run Time to Empty – minutes of power remaining based on amount of current being used now.

8. Charge Cycles – number of charge cycles the battery has experienced.

Charge cycle defined as ≥80% change in relative state of charge.

Built-In Battery Gauge

Each lithium ion battery has an LED gauge that displays its charge status. The gauge is active unless the battery is in shutdown mode.

To view the LED gauge, open the FieldFox battery compartment door, remove the battery, then press the button on the battery.

The battery in your FieldFox will have either 4 or 5 LED segments.

5-segment

Gauge

5 segments

4 segments

3 segments

2 segments

1 segment

Charge

Remaining

≥80%

60% to 79%

40% to 59%

20% to 39%

< 20%

4-segment

Gauge

4 segments

3 segments

2 segments

1 segment

Charge

Remaining

≥75%

50%,to 74%

25% to 49%

< 25%

Charging the Battery

When you receive your FieldFox, the lithium-ion battery is partially charged to approximately 30% to 40% to preserve battery life. Allow four hours to fully charge the battery internally, or three hours by using the external battery charger

(N9910X–872). A fully charged battery will power your FieldFox for about four hours. It is NOT necessary for you to do any type of battery preconditioning before use.

The FieldFox circuitry ALWAYS prevents the battery from discharging to a level that is damaging. However, if the battery is completely discharged, the FieldFox may not turn ON. If this occurs, the battery can still be charged either internally or externally.

Because a lithium-ion battery has no memory effect, you can charge a battery at any time regardless of the current charge status. However, this could impair the accuracy of its internal charge-remaining indicator. When the Max Error is 10%

or greater, the battery should be reconditioned. Learn more on page 172.

Internal Charging with the AC/DC Adapter

Important: Read the safety information for the AC/DC adapter on page 186.

Internal charging time for a fully depleted battery is approximately 4 hours with the FieldFox either ON or OFF.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

AC/DC adapter

To charge a battery inside the FieldFox, insert the AC/DC adapter plug into the

Power connector on the FieldFox side panel (middle hinged door), then plug the adapter into an AC outlet.

 FieldFox ON: Charging is indicated by a battery icon in the upper right of the front panel screen.

 FieldFox OFF: Charging is indicated by the FieldFox power LED glowing amber, with its intensity increasing from dim to bright every few seconds. This

pattern repeats until the LED turns off when charging is done. Learn more on page 17.

Working with the Lithium-Ion Battery 171

Using the External Battery Charger (N9910X–872)

Important: Read the safety information for the External Charger on page 187.

172

External Battery Charger (N9910X–872)

The external battery charger (N9910X–872), lets you charge a fully depleted battery in approximately three hours. It is a two bay, level–3 stand-alone battery charger that is compliant with the standard Smart Battery System. The two bays are charged sequentially on a first-come, first-served basis, though a discharge can be performed in the left bay while the right bay is charging. It uses an external universal switching power supply

External Battery Charger LED

Green

Green flashing

Yellow flashing

Yellow/green

Red flashing

Yellow

Charging Status

Fully charged

Fast charging

Reconditioning – the accuracy of the battery’s internal LED charge gauge is being renewed. See “Reconditioning

Batteries.”

Battery is reconditioned

Error

Standby

For more information, refer to the Instruction Manual included with the external battery charger.

Reconditioning the Battery

The battery contains electronics that monitors battery usage and tracks how much capacity is available. This function can become less accurate because of temperature fluctuations, aging, self-discharge, repeated partial charging, and other factors. Reconditioning - also known as recalibrating - restores the accuracy of the battery capacity tracking system.

Reconditioning does NOT affect actual battery performance. It only recalibrates the charge level indicator.

Reconditioning is done by fully charging the battery, fully discharging it, recharging it again, and then verifying that the error has been corrected.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

How to determine if a battery needs reconditioning

1. Press System then

Service Diagnostics

then

Battery

2. On the Battery screen, if the Max Error is 10% or greater, the battery needs to be reconditioned.

This error will affect many of the displayed battery charge indicators.

After reconditioning, if the battery is not fully charged or continues to show more than a 9% Max Error reading, repeat the reconditioning procedure.

If the third reconditioning does not restore a full charge and give an error reading of 9% or less, the battery may need replacement.

You can recondition a battery internally, or with the External Charger (N9910X–

872). The external charger process is faster and simpler.

How to perform Internal Reconditioning

1. Fully charge the battery inside the FieldFox (either ON or OFF) using the

AC/DC adapter.

2. Confirm that the battery is fully charged. When fully charged, the following icon appears on the FieldFox:

3. Fully discharge the battery by disconnecting the AC/DC adapter, then leave the FieldFox ON until it shuts down (about four to five hours).

4. Remove the battery from the FieldFox, wait one minute, then re-install the battery.

5. Reconnect the AC/DC adapter.

6. Charge the battery and verify a full charge.

7. Check the System then

Service Diagnostics

then

Battery

screen to verify that the Max Error is less than 10%.

How to Recondition with the External Battery Charger (N9910X–872)

1. Insert a battery into the left bay of the external charger.

2. Press the button labeled Push to Recalibrate Left Battery Bay

3. The charger will charge the battery fully, discharge it completely, then recharge it fully again. The entire process can take up to 12 hours.

4. Install the battery into the FieldFox.

5. On the System, Battery screen, verify that the battery is fully charged and reconditioned.

Battery Care

Visually inspect the battery periodically for signs of degradation, such as swelling, cracking of the battery shell, or leakage of fluid. If degradation occurs,

replace the battery and dispose of it properly. Learn how on page 174. Operation

with a degraded battery could result in damage to the FieldFox. Learn more on

page 187.

Maximizing Battery Life

 If AC power is continuously available (Ex: in a workbench environment), remove the battery and use the AC/DC adapter.

Working with the Lithium-Ion Battery 173

 If AC power is not continuously available (Ex: in a field environment), use the battery and recharge it when it holds a 20% to 50% charge, as shown on the screen’s battery charge icon. At this charge level, 2 or 3 segments show on the battery gauge.

 If the FieldFox is not going to be used for more than a week, remove the battery. Best practice is to store the battery with a charge of about 50%. At this charge level, 3 segments show on the battery gauge. Batteries that remain idle eventually lose their ability to hold a charge.

 Allow a battery to warm to room temperature before charging it. Temperature shock can damage the battery chemistry and in some cases cause a short circuit.

 Store batteries in a cool, dry location, away from metal objects and corrosive gases.

Storage temperature limits (20% to 50% relative charge is recommended):

Transportation: –20°C to 50°C

Within 1 month: –20°C to 45°C

Within 6 months: –20°C to 40°C

Within 1 year: –20°C to 35°C

 Battery charging limits:

Charge temperature: 0°C to 45°C (<10°C slows charge on some batteries)

Discharge temperature: –10°C to 60°C

 Operate the FieldFox on battery power between the ambient temperatures of –

10 and +50°C (–14 to +122°F). Using the battery at lower or higher temperatures can damage it and reduce operating life. Cold temperatures affect battery chemistry, reducing charge capacity, especially below 0°C

(32°F).

Lithium Ion Battery Disposal

When you notice a large decrease in charge capacity after proper recharging, it’s probably time to replace the battery.

Lithium-Ion batteries need to be disposed of properly. Contact your local waste management facility for information regarding environmentally sound collection, recycling, and disposal of the batteries. Regulations vary for different countries.

Dispose of the battery in accordance with local regulations.

Agilent Technologies, through Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation

(RBRC), offers free and convenient battery recycling options in the U.S. and

Canada. Contact RBRC at 877-2-RECYCLE (877.273.2925) or online at: http://www.call2recycle.org/ for the nearest recycling location

174 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Hardkey/Softkey Menus

This section shows the FieldFox Hardkey and Softkey menu structure.

The following conventions are used in the FieldFox and in this manual:

 Grey bordered indicates front panel hardkey selections. Hardkeys are dedicated keys that do not change functionality.

The following softkeys change dynamically:



Blue

indicates available settings.



Black

indicates the factory default or currently selected setting.



Green

indicates more settings are available at a new menu level.

 Yellow indicates an active entry is in process.



On Off

Underlined items indicate current setting. Press to toggle between settings.



Resolution [201]

Brackets indicate the factory default or currently selected setting. Press to select a different setting.

Mode .

CAT

Cable and Antenna Test

Spectrum Analyzer

Power Meter

Power Meter (USB)

CPM

Channel Power Meter

Network Analyzer

VVM

Vector Voltmeter

Freq/Dist .

CAT SA NA

Mode

VVM

All Meas except DTF

Start

Stop

Center

Span

All DTF Modes ONLY

Start Distance

Stop Distance

Min Start Freq

Max Stop Freq

Settings

Center

Start

Stop

Zero/last Span

Freq Span

More

Radio Standard

CF Step

Full Span

With Radio Std selected:

Unit

Chan Direction

Pwr

Mtr &

CPM

Frequency

CPM Only

CF Step

Radio Std

Unit [Freq

Chan]

Span

Start

Stop

Center

Span

Frequency

Hardkey/Softkey Menus 175

More

Max Freq Span

Center Freq

DTF Units

Back

Scale/Amptd .

CAT

Autoscale

Scale/Div

Ref Level

Ref Pos

Top

Bottom

Back

Scale Type (Log Lin)

Scale

Ref Level

Ref Pos

RF Atten Auto Man

More

Autoscale

Unit

Corrections

Apply Correction

Antenna ON OFF

Edit/Save/Recall

Antennas

Edit Antenna

New

Save Antenna

Recall Antenna

Storage Device

Back

Cable ON OFF

Edit/Save/Recall

Cables

Edit Cable

New

Save Cable

Recall Cable

Storage Device

Back

View Correct OFF ON

External Gain

Preamp ON OFF

Back

Pwr

Mtr & CPM

Relative

Offset

Offset Val

Scale Min

Scale Max

More

Unit

Autoscale

Resolution

CPM Only

Internal Attn

Back

NA Mode VVM

Autoscale

Autoscale All

Scale/Div

Ref Level

Ref Pos

More

Electrical

Delay

Phase

Offset

Back

Resolution

176 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Marker

CAT SA

Marker 1 ,2,3,4,5,6

Off

Normal

Delta

Marker Table On

Off

More

Marker 1

,2,3,4,5,6

Markers (All

Off)

Marker Trace

Coupled

Markers

Back

Mkr =>/ Tools .

CAT

Marker 1 ,2,3,4,5,6

Off

Normal

Delta

Peak

More

Marker 1 ,2,3,4,5,6

Markers (All Off)

Marker Trace 1,2,3,4

Marker Function

OFF

Noise

Band/Int Power

Band Span

Audio Beep

Marker Table ON OFF

Freq Count ON OFF

Pwr

Mtr &

CPM

None

NA Mode

Marker 1 ,2,3,4,5,6

Off

Normal

Delta

Marker Table On Off

More

Marker 1 ,2,3,4,5,6

Markers (All Off)

Marker Trace Auto Data

Mem

Coupled Markers

(Smith and Polar Formats

Only)

Marker Format

Back

VVM

None

Peak

Next Peak

Peak Left

Peak Right

All except DTF

Marker=>Center

More

Min Search

Peak Criteria

Peak Excursion

Peak Threshold

Back

DTF ONLY

More

Marker=>Start Distance

Peak

Next Peak

Mkr=>Center

Mkr=>RefLev

Mkr=>TuneFreq

More

Min Search

Mkr Properites

Peak Criteria

Peak

Excursion

Peak

Threshold

Back

Delta Ref Fixed

Back

Pwr

Mtr

NA Mode

None

Marker Search

Tracking ON OFF

Peak

Min

Target

Bandwidth

Bandwidth ON OFF

Mkr->

Mkr->Center

Mkr->Delay

Back

Peak Searches

Peak

Next Peak

Peak Left

Peak Right

VVM

None

Hardkey/Softkey Menus 177

Marker=>Stop Distance

Track Peaks ON OFF

Find 3 Peaks

Back

Peak Left

Peak Right

Back

Peak Criteria

Peak Excursion

Peak Threshold

Back

Measure 1

CAT

Distance to Fault

(DTF)

Return Loss & DTF

Return Loss(dB)

VSWR

DTF (VSWR)

More

Cable Loss (1-

Port)

Insertion Loss (2-

Port)

DTF (Lin)

Back

Radio Standard

Import Radio Standards

Delete Radio Standards

Back

Channel Measurements

None

Channel Power

Occupied BW

Adjacent Channel Power

Tune & Listen

None

FM Narrow

FM Wide

Interference Analysis (Opt 236)

None

Spectrogram

Waterfall

Source

Source Enable

Source Mode

Normalize

Source Power

Source CW Freq

Back

All Meas Off

Pwr

Mtr &

CPM

None

NA Mode VVM

S11

S21

Format

Log Mag

LinMag

VSWR

Phase

Smith

More

Polar

Group

Delay

More

1-Port Cable

Trimming

2-Port

Transmission

BW 2

CAT SA Pwr NA Mode VVM

178 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Average 1 Res BW Auto Man

Video BW Auto Man

Advanced

Sweep Type

Mtr & CPM

Averaging

Num Averages

Average

Average Mode

IF BW

Smoothing

Sm Aperture

Sweep 3

CAT SA

Single

Continuous

Restart

Resolution

MinSwpTime

Single

Continuous On Off

Restart

Points

SwpAcquisition

Or in Zero

Span

SweepTime

Trigger Settings

Trig Type

Trig Slope

Trig Delay

Trig Level

AutoTrigTime

Back

Meas Setup 4

CAT SA

Pwr

Mtr & CPM

Single

Continuous

Settings

Output Power

Interference Rej.

DTF ‘Settings’ ONLY

DTF Window

DTF ONLY

DTF Cable Specs

Velocity Factor

AverageType

AverageCount

In Chan Power:

Integ BW

RRC Weighting

More

RRC Alpha

NA Mode VVM

Pwr

Mtr &

CPM

Averaging

Num

Averages

Unit

Relative

Pwr Mtr Only

Step

Detection

Frequency

Single

Continuous

Restart

Resolution

MinSwpTime

None

NA Mode

Settings

Calibration Settings

Power Level

Output Power

Port Extensions

Velocity Factor

Back

Transform

IF BW

VVM

Zero

Zero Off

Hold

Single

Continuous

ON OFF

More

Restart

Avg 1

Hardkey/Softkey Menus 179

Cable Loss

Cable Corr Auto

Man

Edit/Save/Recall

Cables

Edit Cable

New

Save Cable

Recall Cable

Storage

Device

Back

Coupled Freq

Frequency Mode

In Occupied BW:

Power Percent

In ACPR:

Integ BW

Offsets

Offset 1,2,3

Offset State

Offset Freq

Offset Integ

Back

RRC Weighting

More

Meas Type

Total Prw Ref

Ref Value

RRC Alpha

Back

Cal 5

CAT

See page 61

None

Pwr

Mtr & CPM

Power Meter ONLY

Ext Zero

Trace 6

CAT SA

Trace 1 | 2

Num of Traces

All except DTF

Math and Memory

Data =>Mem

Data

Memory

Data & Memory

Trace 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

State

Default All

Detector [Auto]

Record Playback Setup

New Session

Recall Session

Open

Transform

Settings

Edit

Next Page

Previous Page

Dock Window

Done

Transform

Start /Stop Time

Gating

Gating Start/Stop

More

TransformWind ow

Set

FreqLowpass

Line Loss

NA Mode

See page 61

Pwr

Mtr &

CPM

None

NA Mode

Trace 1, 2, 3, 4

Num of Traces

Math and Memory

Data =>Mem

Data

Memory

Data & Memory

Data Math

Back

VVM

See

page 61

VVM

None

180 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Data Math

Math Off

Data + Mem

Data - Mem

Data / Mem

Back

Sort

Cancel

Manage Sessions

Name

Sort

Delete

Copy

Copy All

Exit

Storage Device

After New or Recall

Session is selected...

Close Session

Session Data

TraceRecordLimit

Clear All Records

Back

Recording Configuration

Record Time

Record Source

Record Interval

Segment Count

FreqMaskTrigger

Back

FreqMaskTrigger

Configuration

Edit Mask

Save Mask

Recall Mask

Back

Playback Configuration

Playback Interval

Back

Recorder Player

Pause Resume

Play

Stop

Record

User Tag

Playback Trace

Hardkey/Softkey Menus

Math Off

Data + Mem

Data - Mem

Data / Mem

Back

181

System 7 Save/Recall 9

All Modes

Display

Display Colors

Outdoor Sun

Outdoor Dusk

Outdoor Clouds

Indoor

Night Vision

More

Trace Width

Back

Brightness

Title

Title On Off

Edit Keywords

Back

Full Screen

Volume

Preferences

Language

See the list of languages

on page 160.

Save Current Preferences

Reset Preferences

Back

System Configuration

Options (Licensing)

Show Options

Install Option

Back

GPS

OFF External

Sync Clock

Display ON OFF

Lat/Lon Format

Elevation Unit

Frequency Ref

Freq Ref Source

Back

Security Level

More

All Modes

Save

Shows labeler

Select

BackSpace

Clear

Cancel

Done

Recall

Shows list of files

Recall File

Sort by Name

Sort by Date

Next Page

Previous Page

Cancel

Device

Internal

SD Card

USB

File Type

State

Trace + State

Picture

Data (SNP)

Data (CSV)

More

Manage Files

Shows files

Copy File

Copy All Files

Delete File

Cancel

Manage Folders

Change Folder

Create Folder

Delete Folder

Exit

Prefix

Shows labeler

Prefix ON OFF

Edit Keywords

Shows keywords

Edit

Shows labeler

Cancel

Done

182 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Date and Time

LAN

Power ON Auto Manual

Back

Service Diagnostics

System Information

Error Log

Next Page

Previous Page

Clear Errors

Battery

Internal Temperatures

Advanced

Erase User Data

Back

Limit 8

CAT SA

Edit Limits

Edit

Add

Clear

All Limits Off

Build From

Trace

Exit

All Limits

Save Limits

Recall Limits

Options

Beep

Warning

Limit Type

Offset

Margin

Back

All except ACPR:

Edit Limits

Edit

Add

Clear

All Limits Off

Build From Trace

Exit

All Limits

Save Limits

Recall Limits

Display Line

Options

Beep

Warning

Limit Type

Offset

Margin

Back

In ACPR:

Set Limits (1,2,3)

Lower Offset Limit

Upper Offset Limit

Pwr

Mtr & CPM

Min Limit On Off

Min Limit Value

Max Limit On

Off

Max Limit Value

NA Mode

Edit Limits

Edit

Add

Clear

All Limits Off

Build From

Trace

Exit

All Limits

Save Limits

Recall Limits

Options

Beep

Warning

Limit Type

Offset

Margin

Back

Hardkey/Softkey Menus

None

183

Back

Limit Test ON OFF

Preset .

All Modes

Preset

Mode Preset

In SA Chan Meas:

Meas Preset

Run / Hold +/-

All Modes

Press to toggle between Continuous and Single sweep.

SA Mode has slightly different behavior. Learn more on

page 86.

184 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Safety Considerations

Agilent has designed and tested the FieldFox in accordance with IEC Publication

61010–1:2001 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement,

Control and Laboratory Use, and the FieldFox is supplied in a safe condition.

The FieldFox is also designed for use in Installation Category II and pollution

Degree 2 per IEC 61010 and IEC 60664 respectively. Read the following safety notices carefully before you start to use this FieldFox to ensure safe operation and to maintain the product in a safe condition.

WARNING

For the FieldFox

No operator serviceable parts inside except for the lithium–ion battery. Refer servicing to qualified personnel. To prevent electrical shock do not remove covers.

If this product is not used as specified, the protection provided by the equipment could be impaired. This product must be used in a normal condition (in which all means for protection are intact) when attached to the AC–DC adapter.

The unit may be used only in the operating conditions and positions specified by the manufacturer. The Agilent N9912 Handheld Cable and Antenna Tester complies with the following standards

IEC 61010 2nd Edition/EN 61010 2nd Edition

Canada: CSA C22.2 No. 61010–1–04

USA: UL 61010–1 2nd Edition

Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the product. Return the product to Agilent Technologies or a designated repair center for service to ensure that safety features are maintained.

WARNING

Applicable local or national safety regulations and rules for the prevention of accidents must be observed in all work performed.

Ensure that the connections with information technology equipment comply with

IEC950 I EN60950.

Observe all ratings and markings of the instrument before connecting the instrument.

Maximum Input Voltages and Power:

RF Output Connector: 50V DC, +23 dBm RF

Ext Trig/Ref Connector: 5.5 V DC

RF Input: ±50 VDC, +27 dBm RF

DC Input: 19VDC, 4ADC

Safety Considerations 185

186

WARNING

CAUTION

When performing a measurement, ensure that the right safety and performance ratings of the instrument and accessories are used.

Do not expose the circuit or operate the instrument without its cover or while power is being supplied.

Do not operate the instrument in any environment at risk of explosion.

The power cord and connectors shall be compatible with the connector used in the premise electrical system. Failure to ensure adequate earth grounding by not using the correct components may cause product damage and serious injury.

The measuring terminals on this instrument are designed to be used with external signals described in Measurement Category I, but NOT with external signals described in Categories.

WARNING

For the AC/DC Adapter

The AC/DC adapter is a Safety Class 1 Product (provided with a protective earthing ground incorporated in the power cord). The mains plug shall only be inserted in a socket outlet provided with a protective earth contact. Any interruption of the protective conductor inside or outside of the product is likely to make the product dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited.

Use only the designated AC/DC adapter supplied with the instrument.

WARNING

Use only the designated power cord supplied with the AC/DC adapter.

WARNING

No operator serviceable parts inside this product. Do not perform any unauthorized modification to the product. Return the product to Agilent

Technologies or a designated repair center for service to ensure that safety features are maintained.

Operated at an ambient temperature: 0 to 40°C; full power rating; derate linearly to 50 W at 50°C.

Maximum output rating: +15V/4.0 A.

Input rating: AC 100–240 V, 50/60Hz

Main Plug : Use a 3–pin main plug that complies with IEC 60884–1, Plugs and

Socket–Outlets for Household and Similar Purposes – Parts1: General

Requirements and country specific safety authority requirements, such as UL,

SA, BSI, VDE, CCC, SA, NZ, and PSE.

Appliance Connector: Use an appliance connector certified to IEC 60320–

1/EN 60320–1 requirements

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

WARNING

CAUTION

To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the AC to DC adapter from the mains before cleaning. Use a dry cloth or one slightly dampened with water to clean the external case parts. Do not attempt to clean internally.

When the FieldFox is connected to the AC/DC adapter, position the adapter so the power cord is readily accessible. The power cord is the disconnecting device. It removes main power to the AC/DC adapter. The FieldFox front panel switch is only for the DC power within the instrument, and not for the

AC/DC adapter. Alternately, an AC switch or circuit breaker (which is readily identifiable and is easily reached by the operator) may be installed and used as a disconnecting device to remove mains power from the AC/DC adapter.

To avoid overheating, always disconnect the FieldFox from the AC/DC adapter before storing the FieldFox in the backpack.

If you prefer to leave the FieldFox connected to the AC/DC adapter while inside the backpack, you can disconnect the AC/DC adapter from its AC power source to prevent overheating.

The AC/DC adapter has an auto–ranging line voltage input – be sure the supply voltage is within the specified range.

The AC/DC adapter is for indoor use only.

CAUTION

Never use a modified or damaged charger. Use the original AC–DC adapter

ONLY.

CAUTION

The AC/DC adapter is designed for use in Installation Category II and Pollution

Degree 2 per IEC 61010 Second Edition and 664.

For the External Battery Charger (N9910X–872)

CAUTION

If charging batteries externally, use the optional external charger available from

Agilent, or another SMBus charger of level II or higher.

Never use a non–SMBus charger because the battery issues commands over the SMBus to the charger to control the charge rate and voltage.

Never use a modified or damaged charger.

For the Battery

Lithium battery packs may get hot, explode, or ignite and cause serious injury if exposed to abuse conditions. Be sure to follow these safety warnings:

Safety Considerations 187

WARNING

Lithium–ion batteries:

Must not be exposed to high temperatures (>70°C) or fire.

Must be kept away from children.

Must not be short circuited.

Must be replaced only with Agilent qualified Li–ion batteries.

If replaced or charged improperly, there is a danger of explosion.

Do not connect the positive terminal and negative terminal of the battery to each other with any metal object (such as wire).

Do not carry or store the battery with necklaces, hairpins, or other metal objects.

WARNING

Do not pierce the battery with nails, strike the battery with a hammer, step on the battery, or otherwise subject it to strong impacts or shocks.

Do not solder directly onto the battery.

WARNING

Do not expose the battery to water or salt water, or allow the battery to get wet.

WARNING

Do not disassemble or modify the battery. The battery contains safety and protection devices, which if damaged, may cause the battery to generate heat, explode, or ignite.

Do not place the battery in direct sunlight, or use or store the battery inside cars in hot weather. Doing so may cause the battery to generate heat, explode, or ignite.

Using the battery in this manner may also result in a loss of performance and a shortened life expectancy.

There is a danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type of battery recommended. Discard used batteries according to manufacturer’s instructions.

If you are charging the batteries internally, even while the FieldFox is powered off, the

FieldFox may become warm. Allow for proper ventilation.

Do not discharge the battery using any device except the FieldFox or the external battery charger (N9910X–872). When the battery is used in a device other than those specified, it may damage the battery or reduce its life expectancy. If the device causes an abnormal current to flow, it may cause the battery to become hot, explode, or ignite and cause serious injury

188 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Safety Considerations

Battery Protective Functions

The following protective functions are designed into the lithium-ion rechargeable battery system used in FieldFox.

The protective functions can be divided between two categories: active and passive. Active protection refers to the type of protection that depends on at least two or more protection devices working together to enable the protection

Passive protection refers to the type of protection that is always enabled independent of any other protection device.

Active Protection

Primary Overcharge Voltage: This prevents the battery from being charged if the voltage across any cell exceeds approximately 4.35 V per cell. Once the overcharge protection is tripped, the voltage across each cell must drop below approximately 4.15 V to reset the protection and permit charging.

Secondary Overcharge Voltage: This is a one-time, permanent protection that is triggered when the voltage across any cell exceeds approximately 4.45 V. Once this protection is tripped, the battery can no longer be used and must be replaced.

Overdischarge Voltage: This prevents the battery from discharging if the voltage across any cell drops below approximately 2.6 V. Once the overdischarge voltage protection is tripped, the voltage across each cell must be charged to approximately 3 V to reset the protection and permit discharging.

Primary Overcharge Current: This prevents the battery from being charged if the average charging current reaches or exceeds 3.5A for a time period of 120 seconds or more.

Secondary Overcharge Current: This prevents the battery from being charged if the charging current reaches or exceeds 4A+/–20% for a time period of 20 milliseconds or more.

Primary Overdischarge Current: This prevents the battery from being discharged if the average current out of the battery reaches or exceeds 5A for a time period of 120 seconds or more. This protection can be reset by removing the load.

Secondary Overdischarge Current: This prevents the battery from being discharged if the current out of the battery reaches or exceeds 6A for a time period of 20 milliseconds or more. This protection can be reset by removing the load.

Short Circuit Protection: This prevents the battery from being charged or discharged and protects against damage or lost data if the current in or out of the battery reaches or exceeds 12.5A for a time period of 183 microseconds or more.

This protection can be reset by removing the load.

Overtemperature Charging: The system microcontroller prevents the battery from being charged if the cell temperature exceeds 46C. Once the overtemperature charging protection is tripped, the cell temperature has to drop to or below 45C to reset the protection and permit charging.

Overtemperature Discharging: The system microcontroller prevents the battery from being discharged if the cell temperature exceeds 65C. Once the overtemperature discharging protection is tripped, the battery is automatically shut off which results in turning off the instrument as well.

189

190

Passive Protection

Reverse Charging: A reverse protection diode prevents against damage or lost data due to a reverse charge polarity applied to the battery terminals.

Primary Overtemperature: A PTC(positive temperature coefficient) polyfuse in series between the Li-ion cells and the charging and discharging transistors will open up and limit current flow to the battery terminals as a function of very high temperatures. This protection is resettable once the overstress condition is removed.

The maximum operating temperature of this fuse is 85C.

Secondary Overtemperature: A second PTC polyfuse built into each Li-ion cell will open up and limit current flow as a function of very high temperatures.

Tertiary Overtemperature: A current interrupt device (CID) within each Li-ion cell will permanently open up when the temperature reaches 95C. As each cell fuse is permanently interrupted, overall battery performance will become severely degraded, up to and including disabling the battery.

Overcurrent Fuse: This is a one-time blow fuse with a rated current of 12A.

Batteries: Safe Handling and Disposal

To learn how to safely handle and dispose of the FieldFox battery, refer to the

Material Safety Data Sheet for the manufacturer of the battery at: http://na.tm.agilent.com/fieldfox/help/Reference/MSDS.htm

Environmental Requirements

Refer to the Specifications section of this document.

Electrical Requirements

The FieldFox allows you to use either the lithium-ion battery or the AC/DC adapter - both are included.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions

The FieldFox was constructed in an ESD protected environment. This is because most of the semiconductor devices used in this instrument are susceptible to damage by static discharge.

Static charges are generated in numerous ways, such as simple contact, separation of materials, and normal motions of persons working with the

FieldFox. To prevent instrument damage, practice industry accepted techniques for handling static sensitive devices when using the FieldFox.

Very often, coaxial cables and antennas also build up a static charge, which, if allowed to discharge by connecting to the FieldFox, may damage the instrument input circuitry. To avoid such damage, it is recommended to dissipate any static charges by temporarily attaching a short to the cable or antenna prior to attaching to the instrument.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Safety Considerations

FieldFox Markings

The CSA mark is a registered trademark of CSA International.

The C-Tick mark is a registered trademark of the Australian Spectrum

Management Agency.

This symbol combines the following three markings:

CE indicates product compliance with all relevant European legal

Directives (if accompanied by a year, it signifies when the design was proven).

ICES indicates product compliance with the Canadian Interference-

Causing Equipment Standard (ICES–001).

ISM indicates this is an Industrial Scientific and Medical Group 1 Class B product (CISPR 11, Clause 4)

The Korean Certification (KC) mark is required for products that are subject to legally compulsory certification. The KC mark includes the marking's identifier code that has up to 26 digits and follows this format:

KCC-VWX-YYY-ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

This equipment is Class B suitable for home electromagnetic environment and is suitable for use in all areas.

The standby symbol is used to mark a position of the instrument power line switch.

This symbol indicates separate collection for electrical and electronic equipment, mandated under EU law as of August 13, 2005. All electric and electronic equipment are required to be separated from normal waste for disposal (Reference WEEE Directive, 2002/96/EC).

Indicates the time period which no hazardous or toxic substance elements are expected to leak or deteriorate during normal use. Forty years is the expected useful life of the product.

CAUTION, risk of danger, refer to safety information in manual.

Dispose of properly

Hot surface - connectors get hot during extended operation, so care must be taken when making connections and disconnections.

191

192 Battery Markings

The CE mark shows that the product complies with all relevant European legal Directives (if accompanied by a year, it signifies when the design was proven).

The battery parts can be recycled. Consult local or country regulations.

Dispose of properly

Do not throw batteries away – collect as small chemical waste.

Recycle the old battery properly. Consult local or country regulations related to disposal.

Keep battery away from excessive heat. Do not dispose of by burning.

UL recognized in Canada and the United States.

Packaging Markings

This symbol on all primary and secondary packaging indicates compliance to China standard GB 18455–2001.

AC/DC Adapter Markings

The UL Marks are registered certification marks of Underwriters

Laboratories Inc. (UL). It means that UL has tested and evaluated representative samples of that product and determined that it meets UL's safety requirements. When accompanied by a 'C' and 'US', it indicates compliance to both Canadian and US requirements.

NOM Mark (Normality of Mexico) indicates that the product was tested by an accredited laboratory in Mexicao and meets Mexico’s safety requirements.

Japan’s safety and EMC compliance mark.

China’s safety and EMC compliance mark.

Taiwan’s safety and EMC compliance mark.

Singapore’s safety mark.

Korea’s safety and EMC mark.

GOST, Russia’s safety and EMC mark.

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

AC (Alternating Current).

Direct current (DC) equipment

CAUTION, risk of danger, refer to safety information in manual.

DC connector polarity

Dispose of properly

Certification and Compliance Statements

Certification

Agilent Technologies, Inc. certifies that this product met its published specifications at the time of shipment from the factory. Agilent Technologies, Inc. further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United

States National Institute of Standards and Technology, to the extent allowed by the Institute's calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of other

International Standards Organization members.

Manufacturer’s Declaration

This product has been designed and tested in accordance with accepted industry standards, and has been supplied in a safe condition. The documentation contains information and warnings that must be followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to maintain the product in a safe condition.

Declaration of Conformity

Should the Declaration of Conformity be required, contact an Agilent Sales

Representative, or the closest Agilent Sales Office. See Contacting Agilent .

Compliance with German Noise Requirements

This is to declare that this instrument is in conformance with the German

Regulation on Noise Declaration for Machines (Laermangabe nach der

Maschinenlaermrerordnung –3. GSGV Deutschland).

Acoustic Noise Emission Geraeuschemission

LpA <70 dB LpA <70 dB

Operator position

Normal position per ISO 7779 am Arbeitsplatz normaler Betrieb nach DIN 45635 t.19

Compliance with Canadian EMC Requirements

This ISM device complies with Canadian ICES–001.

Cet appareil ISM est conforme a la norme NMB du Canada.

Safety Considerations 193

Appendix A: Connector Care Review

Proper connector care and connection techniques are critical for accurate and repeatable measurements. The following table contains for tips on connector care.

Prior to making connections to your analyzer, carefully review the information about inspecting, cleaning, and gauging connectors. For course numbers about additional connector care instruction, contact Agilent Technologies. Refer to:

Handling and Storage

Keep connectors clean

Extend sleeve or connector nut

Use plastic end-caps during storage

Do Not

Touch mating-plane surfaces

Set connectors contact-end down

Store connectors or adapters loose

Visual Inspection

Inspect all connectors carefully

Look for metal particles, scratches, and dents

Connector Cleaning

Try compressed air first

Use isopropyl alcohol a

Clean connector threads

Gaging Connectors

Clean and zero the gage before use

Use the correct gage type

Use correct end of calibration block

Gage all connectors before first use

Making Connections

Align connectors carefully

Make preliminary connection contact lightly

Turn only the connector nut

Use a torque wrench for final connection

Do Not

Use a damaged connector - ever

Do Not

Use any abrasives

Get liquid into plastic support beads

Do Not

Use an out-of-specification connector

Do Not

Apply bending force to connection

Over tighten preliminary connection

Twist or screw any connection

Tighten past torque wrench “break” point a

Cleaning connectors with alcohol shall only be done with the DC power cord removed, in a wellventilated area, and with the power to the FireFox turned OFF. Allow all residual alcohol moisture to evaporate, and the fumes to dissipate prior to energizing the instrument.

194 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Appendix B: Specifications/Data Sheet

To ensure the highest accuracy and consistency, the N9912A Specifications are now stored ONLY at : http://cp.literature.agilent.com/litweb/pdf/N9912-90006.pdf

Appendix B: Specifications/Data Sheet 195

Appendix C: Instrument Calibration

Over time, the active components in the FieldFox age and the performance may degrade or drift. To ensure that the FieldFox is performing to the published specifications, you should have an instrument calibration performed periodically.

How Often Should I Get an Instrument Calibrated?

You determine the calibration period which best meets your requirements.

However, a 12 month calibration cycle is appropriate for most users.

There are two things to consider: performance drift and connector wear.

The instrument specifications are set to consider the performance drift that may occur over a 12 month period. Therefore, getting the instrument calibrated at 12 month intervals ensures that the analyzer maintains performance within the operating specifications. If you need the analyzer to maintain more consistent operation, you may want to have the instrument calibrated more often.

Connector wear is a bigger factor and depends on the number of connections that are made. The test ports become noticeably worn after 500 to 700 connections. This could represent about 12 months with average use. With more frequent connections, the calibration cycle should be sooner. You can extend the time between calibrations and thereby save money by using connector savers and

by performing proper Connector Care. Learn more on page 194.

How Do I Get an Instrument Calibrated?

To get your Agilent instrument calibrated, send it to one of the Agilent

Technologies service centers. Please visit this website to learn how: www.agilent.com/find/calibration .

What Are My Choices of Instrument Calibration?

The following types of instrument calibration are available from Agilent

Technologies service center:

Agilent

Calibration

Includes the test data from the calibration and the certificate of calibration, stating the instrument has been calibrated and is operating within the published specifications.

ANSI Z540

Calibration

ISO 17025

Calibration

Includes the test data from the calibration and the certificate of calibration, stating the instrument has been calibrated using a process in compliance with ANSI Z540.1 and is operating within the published specifications.

Includes the test data from the calibration and the certificate of calibration, stating the instrument has been calibrated using a process in compliance with ISO 17025 and is operating within the published specifications.

196 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Index

1

1-port cable loss measurements

CAT mode, 28

1-port cable trimming measurements, VVM mode, 129

2

2-port insertion loss measurements

CAT mode, 30

2-port transmission measurements,

VVM mode, 130

A

AC/DC adapter markings, 192 power requirements, 11 using, 170 accessories, 9

Adjacent Channel Power (ACPR),

Agilent, contacting, 2

Alias Faults, 38 all about limit lines, 141 all about markers, 131 all about trace math, 144

AM FM Tune & Listen, 78

Antenna Corrections, 75 appendix A, 175 appendix B, 194 attenuation, 74 averaging, 25

Averaging, 45

VVM, 127 avoid overpowering, 14

B

Band Power Marker SA mode, 91,

141 bandpass mode, 33 battery care, 173 charge status,viewing, 169 charging, 13 external, 172 internal, 170 disposal, 174

gauge, 170 icons, display, 169 installing, 12

LED, 172 markings, 192

Index

maximizing life, 13, 174 protective functions, 189 reconditioning external, 173 internal, 173 safe handling, 190 service diagnostics, 169 viewing charge status, 12

Battery Saver, 161 bridge cancellation measurements,

VVM mode, 130 brightness, display, 157

C

Cable (Correction) Specifications

DTF, 34 cable and antenna test. See CAT cable loss measurements, 29

Cal On ?, 65

Calculated DTF values, 37 calibration annotation, 65

Cal On ?, 65

CAT and NA modes, 60 verifying integrity, 65 care of the battery, 173

CAT mode

1-port cable loss measurements,

2-port insertion loss measurements, 30 calibration, 60

DTF measurements, 31

DTF settings, 32 return loss measurements, 28 settings, 22

CD, included, 10 certification statements, 193

Channel Power (CHP), 95

Channel Power Meter, 115

Channel Selection, 71 charge status, viewing, 169 charging the battery externally, 172 internally, 170

Clean Screen, 17 colors, display, 157 compliance statements, 193 compressed measurement, 75

Compressed SA Measurements, 75 connector care review, 194 considerations, safety, 185 contacting Agilent, 2 control, temperature, 14

Coupled Frequency, 23, 34

Coupled Markers, 134

CPM, 115 cursor, moving, 153

D

data analysis features, 131 data indicator (*), old, 93 date/time setting, 165 declaration of conformity, 193 delta marker, 133 detection method, 89, 90 display brightness, 157 colors, 157 front panel, 19 settings, 157

Display Resolution

VVM, 126 disposal of battery, 174 dissipate static charge, 15 distance to fault. See DTF distance, start and stop, 33

DTF measurements, 31 settings, 32

DTF Measurement, 32

DTF Start and Stop Distance, 33

DTF Units, 37

Dynamic Range, 50

E

Edit a Cable File

DTF, 35

Electrical Delay, 44

Erase User Data, 168 error correction, 64 max, 170, 173 meas UNCAL, 93 red flashing LED, external battery charger, 172 systematic, 60

ESD, 190

External Gain, 73

External triggering, 85 external zeroing, 120

F

features overview, 8 features, data analysis, 131

Field Strength Measurements, 75 file management, 147

197

files managing, 151 prefixes, 153 printing, 154 saving and recalling, 147

FM Tune & Listen, 78 folders, 152

Format

NA Mode, 42

FreqMaskTrigger, 110 frequency range, setting, 24 step size, 69

Frequency Counter at SA Marker,

92, 141

Frequency Mode

DTF, 33

Frequency Range

NA Mode, 43

Frequency Reference Source, 164 front panel, 17

G

Gating, 58

gauge, battery, 170 getting started information, 11

GPS, 162 group delay, 42

H

hardkey/softkey menu, 175 high-temperature protection, 14 hold, 155 how to add or edit a title, 158 change frequency step size, 69 check for a compressed measurement, 75 control the preamp, 74 create delta marker, 133 limit lines, 143 markers, 131 determine if a battery needs reconditioning, 173 display "live" and memory traces, 145 edit keywords, 152 edit, enable and disable the current prefix, 153 enter numeric values, 20 make

1-port cable loss measurement,

2-port insertion loss measurement, 30

2-Port transmission measurement, 130

198

DTF measurements, 31

S21 transmission measurement, 50 manage files, 151 manage folders, 152 measure return loss, 28 monitor the internal FieldFox temperature, 14 move cursor, 148, 153 marker, 132 reference marker, 133 name files, 148 perform external battery reconditoning,

173 internal reconditoning, 173 normalization, 63

QuickCal, 61 single sweep while in Hold,

156 trace math, 145 preset, 156 recall an *.sta file, 149 recondition battery with external battery charger, 173 save file, 147 save and recall limits, 144 select

CAT mode, 22

CAT mode measurements, 22

NA formats, 42

NA measurements, 40

NA mode, 39

SA mode, 68

Windows settings, 37 set zeroing, 128 attenuation, 74 date and time, 165 detection method, 89, 90, 95,

97 display colors, 157 frequency range, 24, 69 full screen mode, 159 interference rejection, 27 limit options, 143 output power, 48, 127 peak criteria, 139 res BW, 81 resolution, 26, 47 scale, 24 start and stop distance, 33 sweep acquisition parameter,

83 sweep time, 26 sweep type, 25, 46, 128 trace averaging, 25 video BW, 82 zero span, 84 turn error correction OFF, 64 use marker search functions, 136 view and change Quick Settings,

23, 41

I

icons, battery, 169

IF Bandwidth

NA Mode, 46

VVM, 126

Independent Source, 80 indicator (*), old data, 93 initial use, preparing for, 11 input voltages and power, maximum, 14 insertion loss measurements, 30 installing battery, 12

Interference Analyzer, 102 interference rejection, 27

Interval Power Marker, 91 keywords, 152

K

L

LAN Settings, 166 language, settings, 160 latest information, where to find, 2

LED battery, 172 on/off settings, 13, 17

Licensing, 161 limit lines saving and recalling, 144 setting, 143 lithium-ion battery installing, 12

M

managing files, 151 folders, 152 manuals, 10 marker table, 134 markers creating, 131 delta, 132 moving, 132 noise, 140 search function, 135 trace, 135

Markers

Coupled, 134 markings

AC/DC adapter, 192

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

battery, 192

FieldFox, 191 packaging, 192 math operations, 145 maximizing battery life, 174 maximum input voltages and power,

Meas UNCAL error, 93

Measurement Selection

NA Mode, 40 measurements

1-port cable loss, CAT mode, 28

1-port cable trimming, VVM mode, 129

2-port insertion loss, CAT mode,

2-port transmission, VVM mode,

130 bridge cancellation, VVM mode,

130 compressed, 75 distance to fault (DTF)

CAT mode, 31 return loss, CAT mode, 28

S21 transmission, NA mode, 50 selection, 22 menu, softkeys/hardkeys, 175 menus, 175 mode

NA, 39 power meter, 118

SA, 67 temperature control, 14

VVM, 124 moving the cursor, 153 multipliers, 20

Multi-Trace Configurations, 40

N

NA Factory Cal, 167

NA mode calibration, 60

S21 transmission measurements,

50 settings, 39 network analyzer, 39 normalization, 63 numeric values, 20

O

O, S, L cal, 63

Occupied Bandwidth, 96 old data indicator (*), 93 on/off settings, 13

Opt 010, 52 options and features, 8 installing, 161 output power, 48, 127

Index

Output Power

NA Mode, 26, 47, 127 overpowering, avoid, 14 overview, 8

P

packaging markings, 192 panel front, 17 top, 18 peak criteria, 139 excursion, 140 threshold, 139

Phase Offset, 44

Playback Configuration, 112

Points SA mode, 87

Port Extensions, 48 power meter mode, 118 power requirements for the AC/DC adapter, 11 power sensor input, 14

Power Spectral Density, 95 power, maximum, 14 prefixes for file names, 153 preparing for initial use, 11 preset settings, 156 printing, 154 protection, high temperature, 14 protective functions of the battery,

189

Q

Quick Cal, 61

Quick Settings, 41

R

Radio Standard, 70 recalling files, 147, 149 reconditioning the battery externally, 173 internally, 173

Record Source, 111

Record/Playback, 106

Recording Configuration, 110 reference marker, 133 resolution, 26

Resolution

NA Mode, 47

Resolution Bandwidth SA mode, 81

Restart, 86 return loss measurements, CAT mode, 28 reviewconnector care, 194

RRC Weighting, 101 run/hold, 155

S

S11 measurements, NA mode, 39

S21 measurements, 50

NA mode, 50

SA mode settings, 68

SA Mode Units, 72

SA Units, 73 safety considerations, 185

Save Preferences, 160 saving files, 147

Scale Settings

NA Mode, 43 scale, setting, 24

Screen cleaning, 17 screen, front panel, 19

Security Level, 164 service diagnostics, 169

Sessions, 106 settings

CAT mode, 22 display, 157

DTF, 32

NA mode, 39 preset, 156

SA mode, 68 windows, 37

Smoothing, 46 softkey/hardkey menu, 175

Specifications/Data Sheet, 195

Spectrogram Display, 102 spectrum analyzer mode, 67 stand-by mode, 13 start and stop distance, 33 static charge, dissipate, 15

Step Detection Mode, 123 sweep acquisition parameter, 83 time, 26 type, 25, 46, 128

Sweep Time

NA Mode, 47

Sweep Type

SA Mode, 82 system configuration settings, 161

System Impedance (Z0), 48 system settings, 155

T

temperature control mode, 14

Time Domain, 52

Time Zone, 165 time/date setting, 165 title, editing, 158 top panel, 18 trace averaging, setting, 25

Trace Display States, 87 trace math, 144

Trace Width, 158

199

Tracking Generator, 80

Transform, 52

Transform Window, 55

Triggering - SA Mode, 85

Tune & Listen (AM/FM), 78

User Tags, 108

U

V

values multipliers, 20 numeric, 20

VBW, 82 vector voltmeter, 124

Velocity Factor, 49 verifying integrity of calibration, 65 jumper cables, 65

Video Bandwidth SA mode, 82

Video triggering, 85 viewing charge status, battery, 169

Volume Control, 156

VVM mode

1-port cable trimming measurements, 129

2-port transmission measurements, 130 bridge cancellation measurements, 130

W

Waterfall Display, 105 where to find the latest information,

Window Settings

DTF, 37 windows settings, 37

Z

zero span, 84

Zeroing

VVM, 128

Zeroing, power sensor, 120

200 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

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User manual | Manual - Test Equipment Depot

2 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

FieldFox User’s Guide 3

4

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

FieldFox User’s Guide 5

6 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Overview

A.07.00 Firmware Release Updates

7

Overview

Options and Features

8

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Overview

Accessories

9

10

FieldFox Manuals, Software, and Supplemental Help

Conventions that are used in the Manual

Safety Notes

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox

Check the Shipment

Meeting Power Requirements for the AC/DC Adapter

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 11

Install the Lithium-Ion Battery

Battery Usage

12 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

FieldFox ON/OFF Settings

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 13

14

FieldFox High-Temperature Protection

Temperature Control Mode

High-Temp Shutdown

Avoid Overpowering the FieldFox

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 15

16

Take the FieldFox Tour

Front Panel

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Front Panel

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 17

Top Panel

Side Panel

18 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Screen Tour

Preparing for Initial Use of Your New FieldFox 19

How to Enter Numeric Values

Multiplier Abbreviations

20 N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode

In this Chapter

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 21

22

CAT Mode Settings

Measurement Selection

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Coupled Frequency

Quick Settings Table

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 23

24

Frequency Range

Scale Settings

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Averaging

Single or Continuous Measure

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 25

26

Resolution (Number of Data Points)

Sweep Time

Output Power

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide

Interference Rejection

CAT (Cable and Antenna Test) Mode 27

28

Return Loss Measurements

1-Port Cable Loss Measurements

N9912A FieldFox User’s Guide