System Dynamic Range Performance Test

This test applies to the following models:

• N5290A, N5291A
• N5241B/BC, N5242B, N5244B, N5245B/BC, N5247B/BC, N5249B

• N5221B, N5222B, N5224B, N5225B, N5227B

Test Dependencies

This test uses data from previous tests. The following tests must be run prior to running this test:

N5227B, N5247B/BC running the Normal Variant:

• Maximum Leveled Power Below 50GHz Test
• Maximum Leveled Power Above 50GHz Test
• Noise Floor Below 50GHz Test

• Noise Floor After 50GHz Test

All other models running the Normal Variant:

• Maximum Leveled Power Test

• Noise Floor Test

All models running the Factory Recommended Variant:

• Maximum Leveled Power

• Noise Floor

Test Description

Dynamic range refers to the usable power measuring range of a vector network analyzer. The dynamic range specification for Vector Network Analyzers is, traditionally, a derived specification. The datasheet refers to two types of dynamic range: system dynamic range and receiver dynamic range. The traditional system dynamic range specification is the difference between the source maximum output power specification and the noise floor specification. The traditional receiver dynamic range (typical) is the difference between the 0.1 dB compression (a typical) and the noise floor (typical).

Two independent tests measure the maximum source output power and the noise floor, as the datasheet includes each as specifications. This procedure takes the results of these two tests, takes the difference, compares the result against the specification, and reports that as the system dynamic range. This differs from the traditional specification for dynamic range. The procedure produces a measured value.

The System Dynamic Range test will use the most recent test results from the Maximum Output Power test and the Noise Floor test. The user will be required to choose the corresponding runs for these two tests when a full TME report is generated. Test times from both tests will be shown as a footnote in the System Dynamic Range report.

For troubleshooting help, see System Dynamic Range Troubleshooting.

Required Test Equipment

None.