Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Performance Test

This test applies to the following models:

UXA N9041B models will also run a separate test on Input 2.

This test measures the absolute amplitude of the analyzer at 50 MHz. A synthesized signal source and two precision attenuators are used as the signal source to the analyzer. A power meter is used to measure a reference power level from the signal source. The precision attenuators are switched to provide a series of signal power levels below the reference power.

The combined attenuation of the 10 dB and 1 dB precision attenuators is never set below 5 dB in order to maintain a good match between the signal source and the analyzer-under-test. In addition, a 10 dB fixed attenuator is placed between the DUT and the precision step attenuators to further improve the match. Also, a 6 dB fixed attenuator is placed between the source and the step attenuator to control match.

Varying the signal level at the analyzer input causes various ADC ranges to be enabled. The resolution bandwidth and frequency span on the analyzer are varied, resulting in different pre-filter path and bandwidth switching errors. These errors are all absorbed by the DUT in giving its indicated reading of the exact absolute power levels presented by the signal generator/attenuator chain.

This test requires step attenuator calibration data to obtain valid results. Make sure you enter the calibration data for the step attenuators that you're using. Please refer to the Enter Equipment Calibration Data section in the TME help for details on how to enter this data. You must enter the data for the following columns to obtain valid results: Attn(dB), Uncert(dB), and ReflSize.

 

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Required Test Equipment

Test Equipment

Recommended Model Number

Low Noise Signal Generator

PSG
(see equipment list)

Power Meter

N1914B

RF Power Sensor

N8482A

10 dB Fixed Attenuator

8491A Option 010, H33

6 dB Fixed Attenuator

8491A Option 006, H33 

10 dB Step Attenuator

8496G Option 001, H50 

1 dB Step Attenuator

8494G Option 001, H50 

Attenuator Driver

11713B

Attenuator Interconnect Kit

11716A 

Type-N Cable
(2 required)

11500C 

BNC Cable

8120-1840 

Viking Cable
(attenuator control)

8120-2703

1 mm ruggedized (f) to 2.4 mm (f) adapter (for N9041B)

5067-6655

2.4 mm (m) to Type-N (f) adapter
(for N9041B)

11903C

3.5 mm (f) to Type-N (f) adapter
(for 3.5 mm source)

1250-1745

2.4 mm (f) to Type-N (f) adapter
(for 2.4 mm source)

11903B

Type-N (f) to Type-N (f) adapter

1250-1472

Connection Setups

In the following setups, cables are designated as solid lines and direct connections are designated as dashed lines.

Power Meter Calibration



Measure Source Setup


 

Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Test Setup

Absolute Amplitude Accuracy Input 2 Test Setup (N9041B)