Making Complex Measurements

Making Stimulus Response Measurements

Making Stimulus Response Measurements

What Are Stimulus Response Measurements?

Stimulus response measurements require a source to stimulate a device under test (DUT), a receiver to analyze the frequency response characteristics of the DUT, and, for return loss measurements, a directional coupler or bridge. Characterization of a DUT can be made in terms of its transmission or reflection parameters. Examples of transmission measurements include flatness and rejection. Return loss is an example of a reflection measurement.

A spectrum analyzer combined with a tracking generator forms a stimulus response measurement system. With the tracking generator as the swept source and the analyzer as the receiver, operation is the same as a single channel scalar network analyzer. The tracking generator output frequency must be made to precisely track the analyzer input frequency for good narrow band operation. A narrow band system has a wide dynamic measurement range. This wide dynamic range will be illustrated in the following example.

Using An Analyzer With A Tracking Generator

There are three basic steps in performing a stimulus response measurement, whether it is a transmission or a reflection measurement. The steps are to set all the analyzer settings, normalize, and measure.

The procedure below describes how to use a built in tracking generator system to measure the rejection of a band pass filter, a type of transmission measurement. Illustrated in this example are functions in the tracking generator menu such as adjusting the tracking generator output power. Normalization functions located in the trace menu are also used. Making a reflection measurement is similar and is covered in “Making a Reflection Calibration Measurement” on page 84.

Stepping Through a Transmission Measurement

1.To measure the rejection of a band pass filter, connect the equipment as shown in Figure 2-1. This example uses a 200 MHz bandpass filter as the DUT.

Chapter 2

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Agilent Technologies E7402A, E7405A, E7404A Making Stimulus Response Measurements, What Are Stimulus Response Measurements?

E7402A, E7405A, E7404A, E7401A, E7403A specifications

Agilent Technologies, a leader in test and measurement solutions, offers a range of spectrum analyzers designed to meet the evolving demands of the electronics industry. The E7403A, E7401A, E7404A, E7405A, and E7402A are prominent models that embody advanced features and technologies, enhancing performance, accuracy, and user experience.

The E7403A is recognized for its high-quality performance and wide frequency range. This model offers frequency coverage from 9 kHz to 3 GHz, making it suitable for both commercial and academic research applications. With a phase noise of -100 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset, it delivers exceptional sensitivity. The E7403A also features a built-in tracking generator, facilitating effective signal generation for testing.

Next in line, the E7401A provides similar frequency coverage but is optimized for portable functionality. Weighing significantly less than its counterparts, it is easy to transport, making it ideal for field applications. Users benefit from its fast sweep speed of up to 3 GHz, which is crucial in quickly identifying and analyzing signals.

The E7404A excels in its comprehensive analysis capabilities. With a frequency range extending up to 6 GHz, it supports more demanding applications, including wireless communications and satellite technology. Its advanced digital signal processing capabilities enable the analysis of complex modulated signals, providing engineers with the data needed to troubleshoot and optimize system performance.

The E7405A is a highly versatile model that offers frequency coverage from 9 kHz to 20 GHz. This wide frequency range, combined with high dynamic range, supports the testing of various electronic devices and systems. It features advanced measurement options including occupied bandwidth, adjacent channel power, and sensitivity measurements, which are critical for compliance testing in communication systems.

Lastly, the E7402A is designed for users who require a spectrum analyzer with enhanced functionality at a competitive price. It reaches frequencies of up to 1.5 GHz, making it suitable for various applications including RF design, development, and manufacturing. Its user-friendly interface ensures that both novice and experienced users can navigate its features with ease.

In conclusion, Agilent Technologies' E7403A, E7401A, E7404A, E7405A, and E7402A spectrum analyzers provide a robust set of features tailored to meet diverse industry needs. Utilizing sophisticated technologies, these models ensure precise and efficient signal analysis, making them indispensable tools for engineers and researchers in the fast-paced world of electronics.