Instrument Problems

No RF Signal Displayed on the Spectrum Analyzer

If the spectrum analyzer display indicates that there is no RF signal, the signal generator, spectrum analyzer, or both, could have problems. To isolate the problem it is best to substitute a known good RF source in place of the signal generator. The signal generator may appear to have no or low output. Leave the signal generator connected to the signal analyzer as shown in the instrument setup figure. Turn on the equipment and perform the following steps:

  1. Check the error messages in the signal generator and spectrum analyzer. If possible, correct the conditions indicated by the messages.

  2. Ensure that the signal analyzer and signal generator connectors are clean and in good condition. Check to see that the RF cable connecting the signal generator and spectrum analyzer is the correct cable and that it is not damaged or broken.

  3. Put the signal generator and signal analyzer in Local mode.

  4. Turn off the signal generator and spectrum analyzer and then turn them both back on.

  5. Set the following signal generator parameters:

Frequency: 1 GHz
RF Power: 0 dBm
RF Out: On
MOD: Off

  1. Set the following spectrum analyzer parameters:

CF Frequency: 1 GHz
Span: 500 MHz or Start Frequency:0.5 GHz and Stop Frequency: 1.5 GHz
Ref Level: 10 dBm

There should be a signal displayed on the spectrum analyzer. If there is no signal, perform the following:

  1. Disconnect the RF cable from the spectrum analyzer and check the RF power using an RF power meter. If the power meter reads approximately 0 dBm, then the problem is with the spectrum analyzer. If the power meter reading is wrong, then continue with step 2.

  2. Disconnect the RF cable from the signal generator and check the signal generator RF output power using an RF power meter. If the power reads approximately 0 dBm, the problem is with the RF cable. If the power level is wrong, the problem is with the signal generator.

You can also substitute a known good signal source in place of the signal generator. If the spectrum analyzer displays a signal with the new source, then the signal generator probably has a problem. If there is still no signal on the spectrum analyzer, the problem is probably with the spectrum analyzer.

No Communication with the Signal Generator or Spectrum Analyzer

  1. Ensure that the correct IO Libraries are installed on your PC.

  2. Perform the Keysight IO Libraries GPIB and LAN configurations.
    Refer to the Keysight Signal Studio Software Installation Guide. for more information on configuring and troubleshooting the interface.

  3. Ensure that you are using a valid TCP/IP address. A long time-out when entering the TCP/IP address may indicate that it is incorrect.

  4. Verify that the Host file is correct.

  5. Run the Closedping program.

    1. From the computer, go to Start > Run, type command then click OK.

    2. At the C:\> prompt, type ping <IP address>, where <IP address> is the signal generator's IP address or hostname.

    3. If the signal generator does not respond, contact your IP department.

    4. Type exit in the command prompt window then press Enter.

  6. For more information on the 'ping' program, refer to the Keysight Signal Studio Software Installation Guide.

 

Signal Generator

Error Messages

  1. Check the signal generator for any error messages. If possible, correct any conditions indicated by the messages.

When a setting conflict (error) occurs, an error number and a brief message appear at the bottom of the signal genertor display. You can view the full text of the error message either by using the front panel of the signal generator or by executing SCPI commands.

Front Panel:

On the ESG/PSG, press Utility > Error Info.
On the MXG, press the Error hardkey.

SCPI:

 

Execute the SCPI error commands described in the System Subsystem located in the SCPI Command Reference.

  1. Refer to the ESG, PSG, or MXG documentation for further troubleshooting.

  2. Contact a Keysight Technologies Service Center.

 

Front Panel Keys Do Not Work

Downloading the signal configuration places the signal generator in remote operation mode, which deactivates front panel operation. To restore front panel operation to the signal generator, press the Local key on the signal generator, or press the Local button in the software.

 

Computer

  1. Verify that the equipment meets the minimum requirements, as described in the system requirements.

  2. Refer to the computer's documentation for troubleshooting and repair.