In This Guide

Description of the 58502A Broadband Distribution Amplifier

Overview

The 58502A is a 1-to-12 Broadband Distribution Amplifier that is used to distribute precision sine wave signals from Cesium, Rubidium, quartz, or GPS frequency standards. It provides 12 outputs of the source frequency, which can range from 100 kHz to 10 MHz, and is designed for site frequency distribution for manufacturing, R&D, and standards lab environments.

In addition, the 58502A may be used as a standalone precision signal source by operating only from its optional internal oscillator.

The 58502A Broadband Distribution Amplifier has low signal distortion and very high isolation between output channels (OUTPUTS 1-12). Low output phase noise also helps maintain the spectral purity of the source input signal, entering the 58502A through the INPUTS A or B channel.

Auto-Switching and Alarm-Inputs Features

The 58502A has two features that ensure your critical frequencies are always present. First, there is the auto-switching feature. When the 58502A detects one of its inputs is removed or the amplitude of the input is greatly reduced, it will automatically switch to the other input. Second, there is the alarm-inputs feature. The 58502A is compatible with the alarm signals from the 58503A GPS Time and Frequency Reference Receiver and the 5071A Primary Frequency Standard. If the alarm of one of these sources is active, the 58502A switches to the other input source, and it can reflect the alarm in its own alarm outputs and route this information to the ALARM/STATUS port.

Auto switching between two inputs ensures continuous availability of critical frequencies, and a fault alarm is activated when the system is not functioning correctly.

The auto-switching and alarm-inputs features can also be monitored and controlled through the RS-232 serial interface port.

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User’s Guide