Agilent Technologies E8257C PSG, E8267C PSG Configure the Signal Generator, Signal Generators on

Optimizing Performance

Using External Leveling

Configure the Signal Generator

1.Press Preset.

2.Press Frequency > 10 > GHz.

3.Press Amplitude > 0 > dBm.

4.Press RF On/Off.

5.Press Leveling Mode > Ext Detector.

This deactivates the internal ALC detector and switches the ALC input path to the front panel ALC INPUT connector. The EXT indicator is activated in the AMPLITUDE area of the display.

NOTE	For signal generators with Option 1E1, notice that the ATTN HOLD (attenuator hold)
	annunciator is displayed. During external leveling, the signal generator automatically
	uncouples the attenuator from the ALC system for all external leveling points. While in this
	mode, the RF output amplitude adjustment is limited to −20 to +25 dBm, the adjustment
	range of the ALC circuitry. For more information, see “External Leveling with Option 1E1
	Signal Generators” on page 63.

6.Observe the coupling factor printed on the directional coupler at the detector port. Typically, this value is −10 to −20 dB.

Enter the positive dB value of this coupling factor into the signal generator.

7.Press More (1 of 2) > Ext Detector Coupling Factor > 16 (or the positive representation of the value listed at the detector port of the directional coupler) > dB.

Leveled output power is now available at the output of the directional coupler.

NOTE	While operating in external leveling mode, the signal generator’s displayed RF output
	amplitude is affected by the coupling factor value, resulting in a calculated approximation of
	the actual RF output amplitude. To determine the actual RF output amplitude at the point of
	detection, measure the voltage at the external detector output and refer to Figure 3-3or
	measure the power directly with a power meter.

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