RF Output Block

This topic describes the parameters of the RF Output block.

Important Information for Bonded Configurations

Unless specified as "Bonded," this topic primarily describes capabilities for use when the Configuration is Independent, 2 Tx Coherent, or MIMO. For bonded configurations, do not use SCPI commands described in this topic unless they are specified as "Bonded."

For bonded configurations, be sure to use bonding-supported SCPI commands only. Using unsupported SCPI commands in a bonded configuration will impair the fidelity of the waveform. In these cases, the unsupported SCPI commands are still accepted, but no error or warning is generated.

General Settings Vary with VXG Models

Some RF Output settings in the General tab vary according to the signal generator model. Use the images below to see these differences. Use the table below to access descriptions for your model.

M9484C VXG (view image)

M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG (view image)

Tab	M9484C	M9384B/M9383B
General	RF Out (All) RF Out RF Out (Bonded) RF Out (Bonded) Frequency (CW) Frequency (CW) (Bonded) Frequency Increment Frequency Increment (Bonded) Fast Frequency Phase Transition Mode Phase Power Mode Power (Total RMS) Power (Total RMS) (Bonded) Fast Power Fast Frequency and Power Peak Envelope Power User Power Limit On/Off User Power Limit Attenuation Hold Mode Attenuation [Value] Attenuation - Hold [Auto] ALC On ALC - Auto ALC - Edge Detection On ALC Level ALC Source Channel Gain Overview Channel Gain Power Headroom Channel Gain Power Headroom Auto Channel Gain Power Reference Channel Gain Power Reference Auto	RF Out (All) RF Out RF Out (Bonded) RF Out (Bonded) Frequency (CW) Frequency (CW) (Bonded) Frequency Increment Frequency Increment (Bonded) Fast Frequency Phase Power Mode Power (Total RMS) Power (Total RMS) (Bonded) Fast Power Fast Frequency and Power Peak Envelope Power User Power Limit On/Off User Power Limit Attenuation [Value] Attenuation - Hold [Auto] ALC On ALC - Auto ALC - Bandwidth RF Output Block ALC Level ALC Source RF Output Block Power Search Power Search Auto Power Search Mode RF Output Block RF Output Block Power Search Immediate Power Search Offset
Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment	Frequency Offset Frequency Offset State Frequency Multiplier Frequency Reference On/Off Frequency Reference Value Set Reference to Current Frequency Amplitude Offset Amplitude Reference On/Off Amplitude Reference Value Set Reference to Current Amplitude
Corrections/De-embedding	This link opens a separate topic.
Optimizations	This link opens a separate topic.
List/Step Sweep	This link opens a separate topic.
Frequency List/Sweep	Frequency Center (Remote command only) Frequency Span (Remote command only) Frequency Start Frequency Stop

RF Out (All)

For multi-channel capability only.

Turns the RF outputs on or off for all the channels in the instrument. This is a master control that gates the individual states. If this control is off, no RF power is emitted from any of the channels; however, the individual channels retain the state of their setting. If this control is on, the RF outputs are on if their individual state is on. To enable or disable individual channels see RF Out.

GUI Location	RF Out (All)
SCPI Command	[:SOURce]:RFALl:OUTPut[:STATe] ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce]:RFALl:OUTPut[:STATe]?
SCPI Example	RFAL:OUTP OFF RFAL:OUTP?
Preset	ON
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

General

RF Out

Enables or disables the RF output of the indicated channel. To enable or disable all channels see RF Out (All).

The state of RF Out (All) does not change the RF Out state of a specific channel. For example, if RF Out for Channel 1 is set to on and RF Out (All) is set to off, no power is emitted from the RF Output connector of Channel 1. Likewise, if RF Out for Channel 1 is set to off and RF Out (All) is set to on, no power is emitted from the RF Output connector of Channel 1.

Do not use these SCPI commands for channel bonding. While an error or warning is not generated in this case, the fidelity of the bonded waveform is impaired.

Instead, refer to RF Out (Bonded).

GUI Location	RF Out
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:OUTPut[:STATe] ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:OUTPut[:STATe]?
SCPI Example	OUTP ON OUTP?
Notes	If the M9484APPC or M9484AP1C license is not installed, attempting to set state to ON generates an application error message.
Preset	OFF
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00
History	Added M9484APPC or M9484AP1C at A.09.00

RF Out (Bonded)

Enables or disables the RF output of all physical channels in the bonded set. To enable or disable all channels see RF Out (All).

GUI Location	System Menu > Configure Channels > 2 Channel Bonded > RF Out (bonded-channel icon)
SCPI Command	[:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:OUTPut[:STATe] ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:OUTPut[:STATe]?
SCPI Example	GRO:CBON:OUTP OFF GRO:CBON:OUTP?
Preset	OFF
State Saved	Yes
Range	OFF \| ON
SCPI Change	[:SOURce]:CBONded<bondingset>:OUTPut[:STATe] ON\|OFF\|1\|0 has been changed to [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:OUTPut[:STATe] ON\|OFF\|1\|0. Prior use of :SOUR:CBON:OUTP or :SOUR:CBON1:OUTP is now :SOUR:GRO1:CBON:OUTP.
Initial S/W Revision	A.07.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.10.00 Changed SCPI: Added GROup<group> and removed <bondingset> from :CBONded

Frequency Mode

Remote command only.

Sets the frequency mode of the indicated channel.

CW: RF Output frequency is fixed to Frequency (CW).

LIST: RF Output frequency is controlled by List / Step Sweep settings.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MODE CW\|LIST [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MODE?
SCPI Example	FREQ:MODE FIX FREQ:MODE?
Couplings	When Frequency Sweep State of List/Step Sweep is set to OFF, Frequency Mode is set to CW. When Frequency Sweep State of List/Step Sweep is set to ON, Frequency Mode is set to List.
Preset	CW
State Saved	Yes
Choices	CW\|List
Backwards Compatibility SCPI	N51xxB: [:SOURce]:FREQuency:MODE
Backwards Compatibility Notes	For N51xxB: Alias [:SOURce]:FREQuency:MODE FIXed to [:SOURce]:RF1:FREQuency:MODE CW Alias [:SOURce]: FREQuency:MODE SWEep to [:SOURce]:RF1:FREQuency:MODE LIST Alias [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MODE FIXed to [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MODE CW Alias [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MODE SWEep to [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MODE LIST
Initial S/W Revision	A.16.00

Frequency (CW)

Controls the output frequency of the indicated channel.

When Vector Modulation is on, this is the center of the modulation frequency.

When Frequency List/Step Sweep is on, changing the frequency sets the Frequency List/Step Sweep off.

For the M9384B, if you are using 2-channels with the M1749A, you must ensure that the frequencies of both channels are the same.

Do not use these SCPI commands for channel bonding. While an error or warning is not generated in this case, the fidelity of the bonded waveform is impaired.

Instead, refer to Frequency (CW) (Bonded).

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Frequency (CW)
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency[:CW] <freq> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency[:CW]?
SCPI Example	FREQ 3 GHZ FREQ?
Preset	1 GHz
State Saved	Yes
Min	For M9383B/M9384B = 1 MHz For M9384B with M1749A connected = 24.25 GHz For M9484C = 9 kHz
Max	For M9383B/M9384B: With Option F14 = 14 GHz With Option F20 = 20 GHz With Option F32 = 31.8 GHz With Option F44 = 44 GHz For M9384B with M1749A connected = 48.2 GHz For M9484C: With Option 506 = 6 GHz With Option 508 = 8.5 GHz With Option 514 = 14 GHz With Option 520 = 21.6 GHz With Option 532 = 31.8 GHz With Option 544 = 44 GHz With Option 554 = 54 GHz With Option AL2 and V3080A-F06 connected = 67 GHz With Option AL2 and V3080A-F07 connected = 75 GHz With Option AL2 and V3080A-F09 connected = 90 GHz With Option AL2 and V3080A-F11 connected = 110 GHz
Resolution	For M9383B/M9384B: 0.01 Hz For M9484C: 0.00001 Hz
Backwards Compatibility SCPI	N51xxB: [:SOURce]:FREQuency:FIXed
Backwards Compatibility Notes	For N51xxB: Alias [:SOURce]:FREQuency:FIXed to [:SOURce]:RF1:FREQuency[:CW] Alias [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:FIXed to [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency[:CW]
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.03.00, A.07.00, A.09.00, A.11.00
History	Added the max value for Option F14/F20 at A.03.00 Added M1749A at A.07.00 Added M9484C at A.09.00 Added M9484C-AL2 and V3080A at A.11.00

Frequency (CW) (Bonded)

Sets the frequency directed to the Device Under Test; the signal at the output of the external combiner.

GUI Location	System Menu > Configure Channels > Bonded > Frequency (entry field)
SCPI Command	[:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:FREQuency[:CW] <freq> [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:FREQuency[:CW]?
SCPI Example	GRO:CBON:FREQ 18 GHZ GRO:CBON:FREQ?
Dependencies	UP and DOWN are based on Bonded Frequency Increment Step
Preset	For M9384B, with M1749A connected = 24.25 GHz For all others, 1 GHz
State Saved	Yes
Min	For M9384B 1 MHz For M9384B, with M1749A connected = 24.25 GHz For M9484C 1 MHz
Max	For M9384B: With Option F14 = 13 GHz With Option F20 = 19 GHz With Option F32 = 30.8 GHz With Option F44 = 43 GHz For M9484C: With Option 506 = 3.5 GHz With Option 508 = 5.5 GHz With Option 514 = 11.5 GHz With Option 520 = 19.1 GHz With Option 532 = 29.5 GHz With Option 544 = 41.5 GHz With Option 554 = 51.5 GHz
Resolution	0.01 Hz
SCPI Change	[:SOURce]:CBONded<bondingset>:FREQuency[:CW] <freq> has been changed to [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:FREQuency[:CW] <freq>. Prior use of :SOUR:CBON:FREQ or :SOUR:CBON1:FREQ is now :SOUR:GRO1:CBON:FREQ.
Initial S/W Revision	A.07.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.10.00 Changed SCPI: Added GROup<group> and removed <bondingset> from :CBONded

Frequency Increment

Remote command only.

Controls the incremental step value of the indicated channel for the Frequency CW or Fixed parameters. The value set with this command is not affected by *RST or a power cycle. It is reset to the default value with Restore System Defaults.

Do not use these SCPI commands for channel bonding. While an error or warning is not generated in this case, the fidelity of the bonded waveform is impaired.

Instead, refer to Frequency Increment (Bonded).

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency[:CW]:STEP[:INCRement] <freq> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency[:CW]:STEP[:INCRement]? [MAXimum\|MINimum]
SCPI Example	FREQ:STEP 100 MHZ FREQ:STEP?
Dependencies	Default value of 100 kHz is set by Restore System Defaults
Preset	Not changed by Preset
State Saved	No
Min	For M9383B/M9384B: 0.01 Hz For M9484C: 0.00001 Hz
Max	99 GHz
Range	0.01 Hz to 99 GHz
Resolution	For M9383B/M9384B: 0.01 Hz For M9484C: 0.00001 Hz
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.09.00
History	Added M9484C at A.09.00

Frequency Increment (Bonded)

Remote command only.

Controls the incremental step value of the indicated bonding set for the Frequency parameters. The value set with this command is not affected by *RST or a power cycle, is it reset to default value with Restore System Defaults.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:FREQuency[:CW]:STEP[:INCRement] <freq> [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:FREQuency[:CW]:STEP[:INCRement]? [MAXimum\|MINimum]
SCPI Example	GRO:CBON:FREQ:STEP 100 MHZ GRO:CBON:FREQ:STEP?
Dependencies	Default value of 100 kHz is set by Restore System Defaults
Preset	100 kHz
State Saved	Persistent, survives preset and power cycle but not saved in the instrument state.
Min	0.02 Hz
Max	99 GHz
Resolution	0.02 Hz
SCPI Change	[:SOURce]:CBONded<bondingset>:FREQuency[:CW]:STEP[:INCRement] <freq> has been changed to [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:FREQuency[:CW]:STEP[:INCRement] <freq>. Prior use of :SOUR:CBON:FREQ:STEP or :SOUR:CBON1:FREQ:STEP is now :SOUR:GRO1:CBON:FREQ:STEP.
Initial S/W Revision	A.07.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.10.00 Changed SCPI: Added GROup<group> and removed <bondingset> from :CBONded

Fast Frequency

Remote command only.

Sets the instrument’s frequency with the maximum throughput. As the purpose of this command is for speed, there is no limit checking, no coupling, and no update of the value on the front panel. When using this command, there is no inclusion of frequency offset, multiplier, or frequency reference. The value is an integer frequency in 10 uHz resolution. No error message is raised if the value is clipped.

SCPI Command	FAST<channel>:FREQuency <integer>
SCPI Example	FAST:FREQ 300000000000000
Notes	This command performs no coupling, does not support UP, DOWN, MIN, MAX, DEF. The value is an integer in 10 uHz; no HZ, KHZ, MHZ, GHZ units are allowed.
State Saved	No
Min	For M9383B and M9384B 100000000000 For M9384B, with M1749A connected = 2425000000000000 For M9484C 900000000
Max	For M9383B or M9384B: With Option F14 = 1400000000000000 With Option F20 = 2000000000000000 With Option F32 = 3180000000000000 With Option F44 = 4400000000000000 For M9384B, with M1749A connected = 4820000000000000 For M9484C: With Option 506 = 600000000000000 With Option 508 = 850000000000000 With Option 514 = 1400000000000000 With Option 520 = 2160000000000000 With Option 532 = 3180000000000000 With Option 544 = 4400000000000000 With Option 554 = 5400000000000000 With Option AL2 and V3080A-F06 connected = 6700000000000000 With Option AL2 and V3080A-F07 connected = 7500000000000000 With Option AL2 and V3080A-F09 connected = 9000000000000000 With Option AL2 and V3080A-F11 connected = 11000000000000000
Resolution	10 uHz
Initial S/W Revision	A.14.00

Phase Transition Mode

Phase Transition pertains to the M9484C VXG with Option PCH.

This control selects the behavior of the phase across frequency changes.

Transition Mode of Continuous attempts to minimize spectral splatter on frequency transitions by maintaining the same phase across the point of the switch.
Transition Mode of Coherent causes the instrument to act as if all frequencies were generated by independent transmitters that are pulsed on and off; resulting in the phase of any given frequency will always reflect the same phase ramp over time, even if the source has changed to other frequencies in between.
Undefined means that the phase transition has no guaranteed phase behavior.
Reset will reset the phase to the Phase Offset on any frequency change.

For M9484C only: Multi-channel Coherent (MCOHerent) is a variant of Coherent where the phase of all channels is determined by a constant phase ramp over time utilizing a common frequency; frequency changes that don’t result in a path change will maintain the same phase relationship between channels. The amount of center frequency change must be within the bandwidth limits of the channel, e.g. with option R25, a frequency change of 500-1000 MHz (without path hold).

GUI Location	RF Output > Phase Transition Mode
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:PHASe:MODE CONTinuous\|COHerent\|UNDefined\|RESet\|MCOHerent [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:PHASe:MODE?
SCPI Example	PHAS:MODE CONT PHAS:MODE?
Notes	For M9383B/M9384B, the value is UNDefined and not changeable. For M9484C without Option PCH, the value is Continuous and not changeable. Error message raised if user attempts to set value to HW that doesn’t provide it. For M9484C with Option PCH, the default value changes with instrument configuration: For Independent, default is Coherent For Tx Coherent and MIMO configurations, default is Continuous For Bonding configuration, the Phase Transition Mode is RESet and not changeable Only M9484C allows selection of MCOHerent.
Preset	For M9484C with Option PCH: Coherent For M9484C without Option PCH: Continuous For M9383B/M9384B: Undefined
State Saved	Yes
Initial S/W Revision	A.09.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.11.00 - Added RESet selection, and created defaults appropriate to the selected configuration A.15.00 - Added MCOHerent for M9484C

Phase

Controls the phase offset of the indicated channel.

With Option PCH, this parameter allows you to set the relative phase angle of each RF Channel relative to each other output.

For M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG, when in "Tx Coherent" or when in "Independent" with Synchronization Role on, this parameter allows you to set the relative phase angle of RF Ch1 relative to RF Ch2 output.

For M9484C VXG, when in "Tx Coherent" or MIMO, this parameter allows you to set the relative phase angle of the channels consumed by the Group relative to one another.

GUI units are degrees. SCPI return values are always in rad.

UP/DOWN increment is always 0.01

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Phase
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:PHASe[:OFFSet] <real> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:PHASe[:OFFSet]? [MAXimum\|MINimum]
SCPI Example	PHAS 30 deg PHAS?
Notes	GUI units are degrees. SCPI return values are always in rad. UP/DOWN increment is always 0.01
Preset	0 deg
State Saved	Yes
Range	-180 to 180 deg
Resolution	0.001 deg
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.011.50 - Updated for M9484C.

Power Mode

Remote command only.

Sets the power mode of the indicated channel.

Fixed: RF output power is controlled by Power (Total RMS).
List : RF output power is controlled by List/Step Sweep settings.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:MODE FIXed\|LIST [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:MODE?
SCPI Example	POW:MODE LIST POW:MODE?
Couplings	When Power Sweep State is set to OFF, Power Mode is set to Fixed. When Power Sweep State is set to ON, Power Mode is set to List.
Preset	FIX
State Saved	Yes
Choices	Fixed \| List
Backward Compatibility SCPI	N5182B: [:SOURce]:POWer:MODE
Backwards Compatibility Notes	For N51xxB: Alias [:SOURce]:POWer:MODE SWEep to [:SOURce]:RF1:POWer :MODE LIST Alias [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:MODE SWEep to [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer :MODE LIST
Initial S/W Revision	A.16.00

Power (Total RMS)

Controls the RF output power of the indicated channel.

This is the value that the instrument attempts to output. The actual value might be different from the specified value due to the hardware limitations. For example, the output power is different when a high power value is specified with Attenuation Auto off (that is, Attenuation Hold on).

When Power Sweep State is ON, changing the power sets the Power Sweep State to OFF.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Power (Total RMS)
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]?
SCPI Example	POW -50 POW?
Notes	The maximum value of this setting is a settable maximum and the datasheet describes actual specified max power that the instruments are capable of.
Dependencies	When the power is clipped to the User Power Limit the error message "Clipped to User Power Limit" is displayed on the GUI or -222; "Data out of range; Clipped to User Power Limit" to SCPI.
Preset	-100 dBm
State Saved	Yes
Min	For M9383B/M9384B: -120 dBm For M9484C: -135 dBm
Max	For M9383B/M9384B: With Option F44/F32 with IEB: 23 dBm With Option F44 with IEE: 23 dBm when Frequency CW is below or equal to 43.5 GHz 18 dBm when Frequency CW is above 43.5 GHz With Option F44/F32 without 1EB and 1EE 23 dBm when Frequency CW is below or equal to 20 GHz 19.5 dBm when Frequency CW is above 20 GHz With Option F20/F14: 25 dBm For M9484C: 20 dBm for all frequencies not covered by these options: With Option 1EA: 30 dBm WithOption 1EB: 30 dBm WithOption 1EC: 30 dBm With Option 1EE: 30 dBm from 9 kHz to 43.5 GHz, 18 dBm above 43.5 GHz
Resolution	0.01 dBm
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.09.00, A.10.00
History	The preset value was changed from -120 dBm at A.03.00 since ALC shows an error with -120 dBm on 20 GHz box. Updated Max at A.03.00. Updated Max at A.09.00. Updated Max for M9484C from 18 dBm to 20 dBm for standard power in A.10.00.

Power List / Step Sweep

Refer to the sections Power Start and Power Stop in Step Sweep Configuration.

Power (Total RMS) (Bonded)

Sets the power into the Device Under Test, the signal at the output of the external combiner. The power calibration, as part of the bonding process, must be performed in order to achieve the specified power level at the output of the combiner. Otherwise the actual power will be reduced by the cable loss and loss through the combiner.

The actual output power available is dependent on the instrument’s output capability and cable and fixture losses.

GUI Location	System Menu > Configure Channels > Bonded > Power (entry field)
SCPI Command	[:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <ampl> [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude]?
SCPI Example	GRO:CBON:POW 0 GRO:CBON:POW?
Notes	The maximum value of this setting is a settable maximum and the data sheet describes the actual specified max power that the instruments are capable of.
Dependencies	When the power is clipped to the User Power Limit the error message "Clipped to User Power Limit" is displayed on the GUI or -222;"Data out of range;Clipped to User Power Limit" to SCPI.
Preset	-100 dBm
State Saved	Yes
Min	-120 dBm
Max	For M9383B or M9384B: With Option F44/F32 with IEB: 26dBm With Option F44/F32 without 1EB and 1EE: 26 dBm when Frequency CW is below or equal to 20 GHz 22.5 dBm when Frequency CW is above 20 GHz With Option F20/F14: 28 dBm For M9484C: 21 dBm in all frequencies not covered by these options: With Option 1EA: 33 dBm With Option 1EB: 33 dBm With Option 1EC: 33 dBm With Option 1EE: 33 dBm from 9 kHz to 43.5 GHz, 21 dBm above 43.5 GHz
Resolution	0.01 dBm
SCPI Change	[:SOURce]:CBONded<bondingset>:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <ampl> has been changed to [:SOURce]:GROup<group>:CBONded:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate][:AMPLitude] <ampl>. Prior use of :SOUR:CBON:POW or :SOUR:CBON1:POW is now :SOUR:GRO1:CBON:POW.
Initial S/W Revision	A.07.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.10.00 Changed SCPI: Added GROup<group> and removed <bondingset> from :CBONded

Fast Power

Remote command only.

Sets the instrument’s power with the maximum throughput. As the purpose of this command is for speed, there is no limit checking, no coupling, and no update of the value on the front panel. When using this command, there is no inclusion of amplitude offset or amplitude reference. The value is a floating point number in dBm. No error message is raised if the value is clipped.

SCPI Command	FAST<channel>:POWer <double>
SCPI Example	FAST:POW -50
Notes	This command performs no coupling, does not support UP, DOWN, MIN, MAX, DEF. The value is floating point value in dBm; no DB or DBM units are allowed.
State Saved	No
Min	For M9383B and M9384B: -120.0 For M9484C: -135.0
Max	For M9383B or M9384B: With Option F44/F32 with IEB: 23.0 With Option F44 with IEE: 23.0 when Frequency CW is below or equal to 43.5 GHz 18.0 when Frequency CW is above 43.5 GHz With Option F44/F32 without 1EB and 1EE 23.0 when Frequency CW is below or equal to 20 GHz 19.5 when Frequency CW is above 20 GHz With Option F20/F14: 25.0 For M9484C: 20 dBm in all frequencies not covered by the options: With Option 1EA: 30.0 With Option 1EB: 30.0 With Option 1EC: 30.0 With Option 1EE: 30.0 from 9 kHz to 43.5 GHz, 18.0 above 43.5 GHz
Resolution	0.01
Initial S/W Revision	A.14.00

Fast Frequency and Power

Remote command only.

Sets the instrument’s frequency and power with the maximum throughput. As the purpose of this command is for speed, there is no limit checking, no coupling, and no update of the value on the front panel. When using this command, there is no inclusion of frequency offset, multiplier, frequency reference, amplitude offset, or amplitude reference. The value is an integer frequency in 10 uHz resolution. No error message is raised if the value is clipped.

SCPI Command	FAST<channel>:FP <integer>,<double>
SCPI Example	FAST:FP 300000000000000,-50
Notes	This command performs no coupling, does not support UP, DOWN, MIN, MAX, DEF. The frequency value is an integer in 10 uHz, power value is a double in dBm; no HZ, KHZ, MHZ, GHZ, DB, DBM units are allowed. See Fast Frequency section for details of the frequency setting and Fast Powersection for details of the power setting.
State Saved	No
Initial S/W Revision	A.14.00

Peak Envelope Power

Displays or returns the peak envelope power.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Peak Envelope Power
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:PEPower?
SCPI Example	POW:PEP?
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

User Power Limit On/Off

Controls the maximum output power limit of the indicated channel. The value set with this command is not affected by *RST or a power cycle. It is reset to the default value with Restore System Defaults.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > User Power Limit
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:USER:ENABle ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:USER:ENABle?
SCPI Example	POW:USER:ENAB ON POW:USER:ENAB?
Dependencies	Default value of OFF is set by Restore System Defaults
Preset	OFF
State Saved	No
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

User Power Limit

Sets the maximum output power level for the indicated channel that is lower than the instrument’s normal maximum output power. This affects all modes of power operation. This affects the Amplitude value, but features such as AM may allow the power to exceed the Amplitude value. In other words, this is not a hardware power clamp. The value is not affected by recall, *RST, Preset or a power-cycle. It is reset to the default value with Restore System Defaults.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > User Power Limit
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:USER:MAXimum <ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:USER:MAXimum?
SCPI Example	POW:USER:MAX 10 POW:USER:MAX?
Dependencies	Default value of 0 dBm is set by Restore System Defaults
Preset	0 dBm
State Saved	No
Min	For M9383B/M9384B: -120 dBm For M9484C: -135 dBm
Max	For M9383B/M9384B: 23 dBm For M9484C: 30 dBm
Resolution	0.01 dBm
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.10.00 - Changed minimum value for M9383B/M9384B

Attenuation Hold Mode

Applies to M9484C only.

Enabling attenuation hold (Hold checkbox is marked in the GUI) turns off automatic attenuation and allows you to select one of two possible RF Output behaviors in the Attenuation Hold Mode drop-down menu: Output and All.

Attenuation Hold Mode	Description	Summary
Output	Holds only the output attenuators but allows non-output attenuators to change. Output attenuators are defined as those that, when changed, affect the source match and have the potential to introduce some discontinuity on power changes when not held. They are also distinct in that they are selected based on mode, requested power and frequency only and have no dependency on signal level coming from the DAC. Changing non-output attenuation can result in small discontinuities.	Power Reference Auto is overridden to off Changing RF Power may change non-output attenuators Changing Power Reference will change attenuators Changing the Power Headroom will not change output attenuators Note: depending on the hardware, holding output attenuators can be enough to avoid any power discontinuities, but only with ALC or some other form of power correction on.
All	Holds all attenuators, avoiding all attenuation-based discontinuities at the cost of dynamic range.	Power Reference Auto is overridden to off Changing RF Power will not change any attenuators Changing Power Reference will change attenuators RF Power adjustment range is "excess" headroom for higher power, as it is consuming the digital scale. Changing the Power Headroom can change attenuators

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Attenuation Hold Mode
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ATTenuation:HOLD:MODE OUTPut\|ALL [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ATTenuation:HOLD:MODE?
SCPI Example	POW:ATT:HOLD:MODE ALL POW:ATT:HOLD:MODE?
Notes	For M9383B or M9384B: Attenuation Hold Mode has a fixed value of OUTPut. Sending the SCPI command has no effect, but it does not generate an error.
Dependencies
Preset	OUTPut
Range	Output\|All
State Saved	Y
Initial S/W Revision	A.12.00

Attenuation [Value]

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Controls the attenuator level of the indicated channel. Before setting the attenuator level, set Attenuation Hold to ON, which is the same as setting Attenuation Auto to OFF.

When Attenuation Hold is switched from off to on, the current physical attenuator value is captured and stored.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Attenuation > Hold
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ATTenuation <rel_ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ATTenuation?
SCPI Example	POW:ATT 50 dB POW:ATT?
Dependencies	Attenuation occurs in fixed values such as 0 dB, 10 dB, 20 dB, 30 dB, etc. Setting a value in between steps will result in the floor of the value. For example, setting an attenuation level of 45 dB will result in 40 dB of attenuation. The minimum attenuation value becomes larger than zero when User Power Limit is turned on and User Power Limit value is lower than 0 dBm. This is because the instrument cannot limit the output power without some amount of attenuation. Even when the attenuation is automatically set by the firmware, the specified power limit might not be achieved.
Notes	For M9484C: Attenuation has a fixed value of 70. Sending the SCPI command has no effect, but it does not generate an error.
Preset	70
State Saved	Yes
Range	0 to 70
Resolution	10
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Attenuation - Hold [Auto]

Turns the output Attenuation Hold function off or on. Because this function and automatic attenuation are coupled, enabling one function disables the other. When Hold is off (checkbox cleared), Auto is on; when Hold is on, Auto is off. The GUI enables or disables the Hold function, while the SCPI command enables or disables the Auto function. In other words, the GUI and SCPI selections achieve the same result with opposite settings, as outlined in the table below.

For M9383B and M9384B:

GUI	SCPI	Description
	POW:ATT:AUTO ON	The power control automatically changes the attenuator setting as needed to maintain the RF output power level. Attenuation Hold is Off Attenuation Auto is On See Attenuation (Value) for details
	POW:ATT:AUTO OFF	The attenuator remains at its current setting. Attenuation Hold is On Attenuation Auto is Off See Attenuation (Value) for details

GUI

SCPI

Description

POW:ATT:AUTO ON

The power control automatically changes the attenuator setting as needed to maintain the RF output power level.

Attenuation Hold is Off
Attenuation Auto is On
See Attenuation (Value) for details

POW:ATT:AUTO OFF

The attenuator remains at its current setting.

Attenuation Hold is On
Attenuation Auto is Off
See Attenuation (Value) for details

For M9484C:

GUI	SCPI	Description
	POW:ATT:AUTO ON	The attenuator setting is automatically changed as needed to maintain the RF output power level. Attenuation Hold is Off Attenuation Auto is On Power Reference Auto is under user control See Attenuation Hold Mode for details
	POW:ATT:AUTO OFF	The attenuator remains at its current setting. Attenuation Hold is On Attenuation Auto is Off Power Reference Auto is overridden to off See Attenuation Hold Mode for details

GUI

SCPI

Description

POW:ATT:AUTO ON

The attenuator setting is automatically changed as needed to maintain the RF output power level.

Attenuation Hold is Off
Attenuation Auto is On
Power Reference Auto is under user control
See Attenuation Hold Mode for details

POW:ATT:AUTO OFF

The attenuator remains at its current setting.

Attenuation Hold is On
Attenuation Auto is Off
Power Reference Auto is overridden to off
See Attenuation Hold Mode for details

You can use the Attenuation Hold function to eliminate power level transients that can occur with attenuator switching.

When Attenuation Hold is turned on with User Power Limit on, the output power may exceed the specified power limit because the specified attenuation may not be high enough to achieve the power limit.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Attenuation [or Attenuation Hold Mode] > Hold
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ATTenuation:AUTO ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ATTenuation:AUTO?
SCPI Example	POW:ATT:AUTO OFF POW:ATT:AUTO?
Notes	For M9484C: Attenuation Auto is On and is not changeable (however, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error.)
Preset (SCPI)	ON (Attenuation Auto)
Preset (GUI)	OFF (Attenuation Hold)
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

ALC On

Enables or disables the automatic leveling control (ALC) circuit on the indicated channel. The purpose of the ALC circuit is to hold output power at a desired level by adjusting the instrument’s power circuits for power drift. Power will drift over time and with changes in temperature.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > ALC On
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC[:STATe] ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC[:STATe]?
SCPI Example	POW:ALC OFF POW:ALC?
Preset	For M9383B, M9384B, or M9484C: ON
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Coupling	For M9383B/M9384B: When ALC Auto is on, ALC On/Off changes as follows. ALC On/Off becomes off when: IQ Modulation is on or Pulse Modulation is on with pulse width < 100 ns or AM is on Otherwise, ALC becomes on. For M9484C: When ALC Auto is on, ALC On/Off changes as follows: ALC On/Off becomes off when: the frequency is less than 10 MHz or the frequency is greater than 40 GHz or Vector Modulation of any signal is on Otherwise, ALC becomes on.
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

ALC - Auto

Enables or disables ALC On and ALC - Bandwidth couplings. Setting ALC On or ALC Bandwidth turns this parameter off.

For IQ modulation the ALC & Power Search should always be set to Auto.

Coupling conditions are described in ALC On and ALC - Bandwidth.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > ALC Auto
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:AUTO ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:AUTO?
SCPI Example	POW:ALC:AUTO OFF POW:ALC:AUTO?
Preset	ON
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

ALC - Edge Detection On

For M9484C, enables or disables the ALC ignoring pulse edges. When steep slopes are detected in the magnitude, the ALC ignores a small time-window around the steep slope. This allows leveling on only the center portion of pulses and not the edges. If this feature is on, and the signal is not pulsed with a high crest factor, the ALC will intermittently ignore samples, effectively lowering the BW of the ALC loop.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Edge Detection On
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:EDETect[:STATe] ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:EDETect[:STATe]?
SCPI Example	POW:ALC:EDET OFF POW:ALC:EDET?
Preset	For M9383B/M9384B: OFF For M9484C: ON
Notes	For M9383B/M9384B: Setting is OFF and not changeable, attempting to change value raises error -224,"Illegal parameter value"
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.09.00

ALC - Bandwidth

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Sets the detector feedback loop bandwidth depending on the modulation type running on the system to reach the requested absolute output power requested. Very narrow loop bandwidths (Very Slow) causes the leveling loop to pass rapidly changing amplitude levels, but still corrects for slow amplitude drift due to temperature variations or other effects over longer durations of time. Slow or Medium increases the loop bandwidth to partially correct/level for rapidly changing amplitude fluctuations. Fast increases the loop bandwidth provide rapid correction of or rapidly changing amplitude fluctuations.

For IQ modulation the ALC & Power Search should always be set to Auto.

Very Slow – use for CW or modulation with low rate amplitude variation
Slow or Medium – use for CW or modulation without amplitude variation
Fast – use for CW, FM and pulse operation

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Bandwidth
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:BANDwidth VSLow\|SLOW\|MEDium\|FAST [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:BANDwidth?
SCPI Example	POW:ALC:BAND MED POW:ALC:BAND?
Notes	For M9484C: ALC Bandwidth is VSLow and not changeable, sending the SCPI command does not generate and error.
Dependencies	Requires ALC to be ON. Final settings will depend on modulation types enabled: CW, IQ, AM, FM, PM, Pulse
Couplings	When ALC Auto is on, ALC Bandwidth changes as follows. When ALC is on and Pulse is off, the value is set to "Very Slow". When ALC and Pulse are on, the value is set to "Fast". Note that even when ALC is initially turned on (ALC Auto button On), ALC automatically turns off if Pulse turns on with the minimum pulse width less than 100 ns. In this case, ALC Bandwidth may not become "Fast". See table below for examples.
Preset	Very Slow
State Saved	Yes
Choices	Very Slow \| Slow \| Medium \| Fast
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

The table below shows some of the ALC Bandwidth coupling examples.

Setting or calculated value		Free Run Pulse examples		Square Pulse examples
Pulse	Pulse State	On		On
	Pulse Type	Free Run		Square
	Pulse Width	90 ns	100 ns	---	---
	Requested Frequency	---	---	5 MHz	5.5 MHz
	Actual Frequency	---	---	5 MHz	5.555… MHz
	Min Pulse Width (calculated value)	90 ns	100 ns	100 ns	90 ns
ALC	ALC Auto	On		On
	ALC On/Off	Off	On	On	Off
	ALC Bandwidth	--- (Don’t care)	Fast	Fast	--- (Don’t care)
Comment		Since Min Pulse Width is less than 100 ns, ALC turns off.	Since Min Pulse Width is 100 ns, ALC turns on. ALC Bandwidth changes to Fast in turn.	Actual Frequency 5 MHz corresponds to 100 ns pulse width.	Min Pulse Width becomes less than 100 ns in this case.

ALC Level

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Remote command only.

The VXG signal generator maintain best output power stability with ALC in Auto and Power Search in Auto, it is recommended to operate the instrument in this condition.

However, other Keysight Signal Generators provided the ability to adjust the ALC Level as a Vernier control when Auto Attenuation is off. The ALC Level SCPI command is provided for compatibility with test programs that were written for such instruments.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:LEVel <ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:LEVel?
SCPI Example	POW:ALC:LEV 5 dBm POW:ALC:LEV?
Notes	For M9484C: Level is -20 dBm and not changeable, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error.
Preset	-20 dBm
State Saved	Yes
Min	-20 dBm
Max	20 dBm
Resolution	0.01
Step	0.01
Coupling	When Attenuation Auto is OFF and Attenuator Compatibility Mode is PSG, the following couplings are defined. When Power is changed or Atten Auto is turned OFF, this value is adjusted to Abs. Power (Power + Offset - Reference) + Atten. When Abs. Power + Atten is smaller than Min and larger than Max, this value is clipped to −20 and 20 with the error messages "Data out of range; ALC Level value clipped to lower limit −20 dBm." and "Data out of range; ALC Level value clipped to upper limit 20 dBm.", respectively. When this value is changed, Abs. Power is adjusted to this value − Atten.
Backwards Compatibility	[:SOURce]:POWer:ALC:LEVel
Initial S/W Revision	A.04.00

ALC Source

Remote command only.

The VXG signal generator contain an ALC that is integrated into the instrument’s internal circuitry. In other Keysight Signal Generators the ALC could be internal or supplied externally. This command is provided for compatibility with such Signal Generators.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SOURce INTernal [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SOURce?
SCPI Example	PPOW:ALC:SOUR INT POW:ALC:SOUR
Preset	INT
State Saved	Yes
Range	INT
Backwards Compatibility	[:SOURce]:POWer:ALC:SOURce
Initial S/W Revision	A.04.00

Channel Gain Overview

Applies to M9484C only.

The Channel Gain is the instrument’s digital and analog setup to achieve a particular power with an input, such as a waveform. There are two settings for the Channel Gain: Power Headroom and Power Reference. See Figure: Determining Instrument’s Channel Gain Setup. When Channel Gain Power Headroom Auto is on, the Channel Gain Power Headroom is automatically set to the crest factor (after runtime scaling) of the waveform(s) being played. When Channel Gain Power Reference Auto is on, the Channel Gain Power Reference is the RF Power.

Adjusting the power headroom or power reference allows for selecting a particular setup across a range of powers or for optimizations when the instrument does not know the best optimization point. These settings accomplish the same function as Attenuator Hold in other Keysight Technologies signal generators.

The channel gain power headroom must be at or above the total crest factor of all combined signals, including AWGN and CW interferers, to avoid a DAC overflow. When Auto is on, the system will set this value to the combined crest factors (after runtime scaling). The larger this value is, the less likely that summed signals will run out of power or have an arithmetic overflow, but less dynamic range will be available.

Diagram

Description automatically generated

Figure: Power Control with Multiple Signals

Diagram

Description automatically generated

Figure: Determining Instrument’s Channel Gain Setup

See Figure: Power Gain vs Signal Power to understand how a particular signal’s power relates to the static instrument setup set by the channel gain power settings. The headroom sets the amount of digital back-off from full-scale CW. The channel gain reference power Pref sets the optimized gain. These two values determine the maximum peak power. Digital Scale is the dynamic power control applied in the instrument’s DSP to get the appropriate power given the requested power of the signal to play and its crest factors. The crest factors are determined implicitly for internally generated waveforms, or explicitly using the rms of the waveform(s).

Diagram, schematic

Description automatically generated

Figure: Power Gain vs Signal Power

Channel Gain Power Headroom

The reference headroom sets the amount of digital back-off from full-scale CW. This value must be at or above the total crest factor of all combined signals to avoid overflow. The larger this value is, the less likely that summed signals will run out of power or have an arithmetic overflow, but less dynamic range will be available. See Channel Gain Overview.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Channel Gain Headroom
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:HEADroom <rel_ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:HEADroom?
SCPI Example	POW:CGA:HEAD 10DB POW:CGA:HEAD?
Notes	For values larger than 20 dB, the system may not be capable of delivering maximum specified power. For M9383B or M9384B: Channel Gain Power Headroom value is 0 dB and not changeable, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error.
Dependencies	When this value is set, Channel Gain Power Headroom Auto is set to off.
Preset	0 dB
State Saved	Y
Min	0 dB
Max	100 dB
Resolution	0.01 dB
Initial S/W Revision	A.12.00

Channel Gain Power Headroom Auto

When in auto mode, the Power Headroom is the crest factor of the waveform(s) being played, if known. When in CW mode (no modulation), the headroom is 0 dB. See Channel Gain Overview.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Channel Gain Headroom Auto
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:HEADroom:AUTO ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:HEADroom:AUTO?
SCPI Example	POW:CGA:HEAD:AUTO ON POW:CGA:HEAD:AUTO?
Notes	When this feature is turned off, the automatic values are retained. For M9383B or M9384B: Channel Gain Power Headroom Auto is ON and is not changeable (however, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error).
Preset	ON
State Saved	Y
Initial S/W Revision	A.12.00

Channel Gain Power Reference

This value is the optimized power level for purposes of power control. This follows RF Power when Auto is on. See Channel Gain Overview.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Channel Gain Power Reference
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:REFerence <ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:REFerence?
SCPI Example	POW:CGA:REF 0DBM POW:CGA:REF?
Notes	The maximum value of this setting is a settable maximum and the datasheet describes actual specified max power that the instruments are capable of. For M9383B or M9384B: Channel Gain Power Reference -100 dBm and not changeable, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error.
Dependencies	When the power is clipped to the User Power Limit the error message "Clipped to User Power Limit" is displayed on the GUI or -222;"Data out of range;Clipped to User Power Limit" to SCPI. When this value is set, Channel Gain Power Reference Auto is set to off.
Preset	-100 dBm
State Saved	Y
Min	-135 dBm
Max	For M9484C: 20 dBm in all frequencies not covered by the options: With Option 1EA: 30 dBm With Option 1EB: 30 dBm With Option 1EC: 30 dBm With Option 1EE: 30 dBm from 9 kHz to 43.5 GHz, 18 dBm above 43.5 GHz
Resolution	0.01 dBm
Initial S/W Revision	A.12.00

Channel Gain Power Reference Auto

When in auto mode, the Power Reference is the RF Power. See Channel Gain Overview.

GUI Location	RF Output > General tab > Channel Gain Power Reference Auto
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:REFerence:AUTO ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:CGAin:REFerence:AUTO?
SCPI Example	POW:CGA:REF:AUTO ON POW:CGA:REF:AUTO?
Notes	When this feature is turned off, the automatic values are retained. This value cannot be set to on when Attenuation Auto is off (that is, Attenuation Hold is on). For M9383B or M9384B: Channel Gain Power Reference Auto is ON and is not changeable (however, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error).
Preset	ON
State Saved	Y
Initial S/W Revision	A.12.00

Power Search

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Executes a single power search calibration at the current RF output frequency and amplitude setting.

This button is equivalent to [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch ONCE.

SCPI Command	N/A
Dependencies	Unavailable when ALC is on.
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Power Search Auto

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Toggles Power Search Mode On or Off. When enabled, power search calibration routine is executed whenever an instrument setting is modified that affects RF output power. This includes changes to frequency, amplitude and modulation. For IQ modulation the ALC & Power Search should always be set to Auto.

This button is equivalent to [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch ON|OFF.

Initial S/W Revision

A.01.00

Power Search Mode

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Remote command only.

Executes a power search routine that temporarily activates the ALC, calibrates the power of the current RF output, and then disconnects the ALC circuitry. The power search mode is active only when the ALC state is Off, and the RF output is On.

ON: Sets the power search mode to automatic (Auto). In automatic mode, the power search calibration routine is executed whenever an instrument setting is modified that affects RF output power. This includes changes to frequency, amplitude, and modulation.
OFF: Sets the power search mode to Manual and disables the automatic power search calibration routine. The power level must be calibrated by explicitly sending the ONCE command. If there is a change in frequency or amplitude the ONCE command must be sent again.
ONCE: This choice executes a single power search calibration at the current RF output frequency and amplitude setting. This command can be used when the power search mode is in automatic or manual.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch ON\|OFF\|1\|0\|ONCE [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch?
SCPI Example	POW:ALC:SEAR OFF POW:ALC:SEAR?
Notes	For M9484C: Search setting is changeable with no action taken by the instrument, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error.
Preset	ON
State Saved	Yes
Choices	ON \| OFF \| ONCE
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Power Search Immediate

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Remote command only.

Adjusts the internal attenuators and amplifiers for coarse tuning and modulation scaling for fine tuning. Thus, the RF output level matches the RMS power of the ARB or sequence currently playing.

Changes are applied to hardware in this method so no further action is needed on the user's side, but the parameters are also returned for saving or later use. Power Search adjusts RF output level and modulation scale, but these change are made through internal adjustment parameters, thus transparent to the user. These changes are reset whenever the current conditions (frequency, level, or ARB/Sequence to play) change. It is recommended to do Power Search each time the condition changes, but when the throughput is more important than accuracy, the user could record the returned parameters and re-apply them when the same condition appears later.

The corrections applied to compensate for non-ideal hardware may result in you increasing power levels beyond the power level supported by the instrument. When this occurs, the corrected power level will not match your power level request and the instrument will generate an error reporting that "compensated power exceeds power limits".

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch:IMMediate [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch:IMMediate?
SCPI Example	POW:ALC:SEAR:IMM POW:ALC:SEAR:IMM?
Notes	For M9484C: Search command is accepted but no action taken, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error. The Search query returns 0.
State Saved	No
Initial S/W Revision	A.02.00

Power Search Offset

Applies to the M9383B VXG-m and M9384B VXG only.

Remote command only.

Applies the RF and Scale offset values to the modulator.

The [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch:IMMediate? query command can be executed to run power search and return the offset value in dB. Then, you can switch frequencies, power, or change any other settings that invalidates the power search, and use this command to set the power search offset with the value received from the [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch:IMMediate? query command. This sets the power search offset again without running the power search again.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:ALC:SEARch:OFFSet <rel_ampl>
SCPI Example	POW:ALC:SEAR:OFFS -10
Notes	For M9484C: Offset value is accepted with no action taken by the instrument, sending the SCPI command does not generate an error.
State Saved	No
Initial S/W Revision	A.02.00

Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment

Tap or click within this area of the GUI to access the Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment Setup screen, where you can configure these parameters. Once you complete your configuration, click or tap Back and this area updates to reflect your custom configuration.

Frequency Offset

Adds an offset value to the frequency of the indicated channel. The actual RF output frequency is not changed by this setting. The offset is applied after the Frequency Multiplier is applied to the frequency. When an offset has been entered, the OFFS indicator is turned on in the Frequency area of the display (top center of the display). The frequency offset state is turned on when any non–zero value is entered; entering zero will turn it off.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Frequency Offset
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:OFFSet <freq> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:OFFSet?
SCPI Example	FREQ:OFFS 100 MHz FREQ:OFFS?
Preset	0 Hz
State Saved	Yes
Range	-200 to 200 GHz
Resolution	0.001 Hz
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Frequency Offset State

Remote command only.

Controls state of the Frequency Offset of the indicated channel. The state can be toggled between ON and OFF without affecting the value of the Frequency Offset.

SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:OFFSet:STATe ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:OFFSet:STATe?
SCPI Example	FREQ:OFFS:STAT ON FREQ:OFFS:STAT?
Couplings	Setting Frequency Offset to 0 Hz turns this parameter OFF and setting Frequency Offset to any value other than 0 Hz turns this parameter ON.
Preset	OFF
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Frequency Multiplier

Scales the frequency of the indicated channel by the specified value. The actual RF output frequency is not changed by this setting. The Frequency Multiplier is applied to the frequency prior to applying the Frequency Offset. When a Frequency Multiplier other than 1.0 has been entered, the MULT indicator is turned on in the Frequency Area (top center) of the display.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Frequency Multiplier
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MULTiplier <real> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:MULTiplier?
SCPI Example	FREQ:MULT 2 FREQ:MULT?
Preset	1
State Saved	Yes
Range	-100 to -0.001 and 0.001 to 100
Min	-100
Max	100
Resolution	0.001
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00
Modified S/W Revision	A.11.00 Change the min value from -1000 to -100, and max value from 1000 to 100

Frequency Reference On/Off

Enables or disables the frequency reference mode for the indicated channel. When Frequency Reference mode is on, subsequent frequency parameters are set relative to the reference value.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Frequency Reference On
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:REFerence:STATe ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:REFerence:STATe?
SCPI Example	FREQ:REF:STAT ON FREQ:REF:STAT?
Preset	OFF
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Frequency Reference Value

Provides a reference frequency value for the indicated channel.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Frequency Reference
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:REFerence <freq> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:REFerence?
SCPI Example	FREQ:REF 3 GHZ FREQ:REF?
Preset	0 Hz
State Saved	Yes
Range	-200 to 200 GHz
Resolution	0.001 Hz
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Set Reference to Current Frequency

This immediate action sets the current CW output frequency, along with any offset, as a 0 Hz reference value to the indicated channel.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Set Reference to Current Frequency
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:FREQuency:REFerence:SET
SCPI Example	FREQ:REF:SET
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Amplitude Offset

Provides a power offset (in dB) to the actual RF output of the indicated channel. This simulates a power level at a test point beyond the RF OUTPUT connector without changing the actual RF output power. The offset value only affects the displayed amplitude setting. You can enter an offset at any time in either normal operation or amplitude reference mode.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Amplitude Offset
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:OFFSet <rel_ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer[:LEVel][:IMMediate]:OFFSet? [MAXimum\|MINimum]
SCPI Example	POW:OFFS 10 dB POW:OFFS?
Preset	0 dB
State Saved	Yes
Range	-200 to 200 dB
Resolution	0.01 dB
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Amplitude Reference On/Off

Enables or disables the amplitude reference mode for the indicated channel. When the amplitude reference mode is on, subsequent amplitude parameters are set relative to the reference value.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Amplitude Reference
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:REFerence:STATe ON\|OFF\|1\|0 [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:REFerence:STATe?
SCPI Example	POW:REF:STAT ON POW:REF:STAT?
Preset	OFF
State Saved	Yes
Choices	OFF \| ON
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Amplitude Reference Value

Provides an amplitude reference value for the indicated channel.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Amplitude Reference
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:REFerence <ampl> [:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:REFerence? [MAXimum\|MINimum]
SCPI Example	POW:REF -20 POW:REF?
Preset	0 dBm
State Saved	Yes
Range	-330 to 220 dBm
Resolution	0.01 dBm
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Set Reference to Current Amplitude

This immediate action sets the current output amplitude, along with any offset, as a 0 dBm reference value to the indicated channel.

GUI Location	RF Output > Frequency and Amplitude Adjustment > Set Reference to Current Amplitude
SCPI Command	[:SOURce][:RF<channel>]:POWer:REFerence:SET
SCPI Example	POW:REF:SET
Initial S/W Revision	A.01.00

Optimizations

Tap or click within this area of the GUI to access the RF Optimizations screen. This area also displays the status of harmonic filters.

Optimizations pertain to the RF Output of the indicated channel. Each optimization may involve a tradeoff in one aspect of instrument performance over another. Care should be taken in choosing an optimization for your measurement use case.

List/Step Sweep

Refer to the topic List/Step Sweep.

Frequency List/Sweep

Frequency Center (Remote command only)

Refer to the section Frequency Center in Step Sweep Configuration.

Frequency Span (Remote command only)

Refer to the section Frequency Span in Step Sweep Configuration.

Frequency Start

Refer to the section Frequency Start in Step Sweep Configuration.

Frequency Stop

Refer to the section Frequency Stop in Step Sweep Configuration.