Sub-Harmonic Spurious Performance Test

This test applies to the following models:

Sub-harmonics are signal impurities that occur at non-integer multiples of a generated signal’s fundamental frequency (such as 0.5, 1.5). This test utilizes a spectrum analyzer for measuring the power of the sub-harmonic component relative to the power at the fundamental frequency.

The spectrum analyzer and the signal generator are both tuned to the harmonic frequency and a reference amplitude measurement is made. Then, the signal generator is tuned to the fundamental frequency with the power level unchanged. The spectrum analyzer measures the resulting harmonic response relative to the reference amplitude.

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Required Test Equipment

Test Equipment

Recommended Models1

Spectrum analyzer

N9030B Option 5xx2

Adapter, Type-N (f) to 3.5 mm (m)

1250-1750

Adapter, 3.5 mm (f) to 2.4 mm (f)

11901B

Cable, 3.5 mm (m) to 3.5 mm (m)

11500E

Cable, BNC (m) to SMB (f)

8121-2063

100 MHz reference

M9300A
  1. Refer to the main Required Equipment table for a list of alternative models.
  2. Select any frequency option (503, 508, 513, 526, 544, 550) that has a maximum frequency greater than or equal to the maximum frequency of the unit under test.

Connections and Setup Procedures