Power Level Linearity Performance Test

 

Prior to running this test, certain settings must be set on the PNA to avoid error messages and possible test failure. Refer to Power Level Linearity Troubleshooting for more information.

This test verifies that the power level is linear across the frequency range, and verifies the Power Sweep Range and Power Level Linearity specifications. It is performed at discrete frequencies and checks the linearity of the source over its automatic leveling control (ALC) range. It measures linearity across the specified power sweep range. The test does not check the linearity of any internal step attenuator.

For single source PNAs, this test is only performed on port 1; therefore the specification only applies to this port. For dual source analyzers, port 3 is also tested, and the process is the same as port 1. The port 2 PNA receiver is used to test port 1. The PNA receiver linearity is the standard against which the source linearity is checked.

For DUTs running the Normal Variant test plan, the 20 dB attenuation during the test can come from one of two sources: the source internal step attenuator built into the PNA, or an external attenuation pad. When the internal step attenuator is used, it should be taken out of auto mode. All DUT configurations running the Factory Recommended Variant test plan must use an external fixed attenuator.

This test is performed using the Preset power level. For a list of PNA preset power levels, refer to the PNA datasheet.

For troubleshooting help, see Power Level Linearity Troubleshooting.

Required Test Equipment

Below is the required test equipment separated by the DUT connector type. Select the link that applies to the connector type for your PNA model.

for 3.5 mm connector models:

N5241A/AS/B/BC, N5242A/AS/B, N5242AH85, N5249A/AS/B
N5221A/AS/B, N5222A/AS/B
N5231A/AS/B, N5232A/AS/B, N5239A/AS/B
N5230A/C with option 12x, 14x, 22x, 24x, or 02x

3.5 mm Connector Models

Test Equipment

Recommended Model

Alternate Model

RF cable, 3.5 mm (f) to 3.5 mm (f)

85131-60013

85131-60010
(not for 4-port)

20 dB fixed attenuator1

8493C Opt 020

n/a

  1. Required for all DUT configurations running the Factory Recommended Variant test plan. Models with an internal step attenuator running the Normal Variant test plan have the option of using the internal step attenuator.

 

for 2.4 mm connector models:

N5244A/AS/B, N5245A/AS/B/BC
N5224A/AS/B, N5225A/AS/B
N5234A/AS/B, N5235A/AS/B
N5230A/C with option 42x or 52x

2.4 mm Connector Models

Test Equipment

Recommended Model

Alternate Model

RF cable, 2.4 mm (f) to 2.4 mm (f)

85133-60016
(more flexible)

85133-60002
(less flexible)

20 dB fixed attenuator1

8490D Opt 020

n/a

  1. Required for all DUT configurations running the Factory Recommended Variant test plan. Models running the Normal Variant test plan have the option of using the internal step attenuator (if equipped).

 

for 1.85 mm connector models:

N5247A/AS/B/BC, N5227A/AS/B

1.85 mm Connector Models

Test Equipment

Recommended Model

Alternate Model

RF cable, 1.85 mm (f) to 1.85 mm (f)

8121-2921

N4697-60100

20 dB fixed attenuator1

8490G Opt. 020

Anritsu 41V-20

  1. Required for all DUT configurations running the Factory Recommended Variant test plan. Models running the Normal Variant test plan have the option of using the internal step attenuator (if equipped).

 

for 1 mm connector models:

N5290A, N5291A

1 mm Connector Models

Test Equipment1

Recommended Model

Alternate Model

20 dB fixed attenuator, 1.85 mm

8490G Opt. 020

Anritsu 41V-20
  1. Refer to the main test equipment table for available cables and adapters listed by connector type.

 

Connection Setups

Due to the complexity of the PNA family of analyzers, the following notes apply to illustrations in the PNA Help:

  • Only a single representative PNA model will be shown. Therefore, port locations may differ in older PNA models than what is shown in the illustration. Refer to the port labels on the UUT.
  • Some illustrations may differ than those in TME.
  • If the test procedure applies to multiple ports, illustrations may show the setup on only one test port.
  • Setups for some option configurations may not appear in the Help.

Power Level Linearity Measurement Setups

 

For PNA mm-Wave systems N5290A and N5291A, .

 

For default front and rear cabling between the PNA and the test set, refer to Step 2: Prepare the PNA for Testing of the Getting Started Guide.

 

For all other PNA models, .

Setup with attenuator

An external 20 dB attenuator is required for all DUT configurations running the Factory Recommended Variant test plan. Models running the Normal Variant test plan have the option of using the internal step attenuator (if equipped).