Source Power Linearity Performance Test

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.

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. (For the E8361A and E8362A 67 GHz PNAs, 10 dB is used in place of 20 dB.)

This test is performed using the Preset power level. For a list of PNA preset power levels, see the PNA Preset Power Level table located below the setup illustration.

For troubleshooting help, see Power Level Linearity Troubleshooting.

Required Test Equipment

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

 

For Type-N Connector PNA Models

E8356A, E8357A, E8358A
E8801A, E8802A, E8803A
N3381A, N3382A, N3383A

Test Equipment

Recommended Model

Alternate Model

RF cable Type-N (m) to Type-N (m)

N6314A

8120-8862

Fixed attenuator

(only required for PNAs without an internal step attenuator)

8491B Opt 020

n/a

For 3.5 mm Connector PNA Models

E8362A, E8362B, E8362C

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)

Fixed attenuator

(only required for PNAs without an internal step attenuator)

8493C Opt 020

n/a

For 2.4 mm Connector PNA Models

E8363A, E8363B, E8363C
E8364A, E8364B, E8464C

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 attenuator

(only required for PNAs without an internal step attenuator)

8490D Opt 020

n/a

For 1.85 mm Connector PNA Models

E8361A, E8361C

Test Equipment

Recommended Model

Alternate Model

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

N4697-60100

none

10 dB fixed attenuator

(only required for PNAs without an internal step attenuator)

8490G Opt. 010

Anritsu 41V-10

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 model will be shown.
  • Some illustrations may differ than those in TME.
  • For procedures that apply to multiple ports, illustrations will show the setup on only one test port.

Power Level Linearity Measurement Setup

PNA Preset Power Level

Model

Options

Test Power Level

All RF

all

0 dBm

E8362A
E8362B
E8362C

standard

0 dBm

UNL or 014

-5 dBm

E8363A, E8363B
E8364A, E8364B

standard

-12 dBm

UNL or 014

-17 dBm

E8361A
E8361C

standard or 014

-15 dBm

014 & UNL

-17 dBm