7- 10
Operating Concepts
Output Power
Output Power
Understanding the Power Ranges
The built-in synthesized source contains a programmable step attenuator that allows you to directly and
accurately set power levels in eight different power ranges. Each range has a total span of 25 dB. The eight
ranges cover the instrument's full operating range from +10 dBm to 85 dBm. In addition, some amount of
overrange and underrange is permitted beyond the stated limits. Performance outside of the range limits
varies from one analyzer to another and is not specified. A power range can be selected either manually or
automatically.
Automatic mode
If you select , you can enter any power level within the total operating range of the
instrument and the source attenuator will automatically switch to the corresponding range.
Each range overlaps its adjacent ranges by 15 dB, therefore, certain power levels are designated to cause
the attenuator to switch to the next range so that optimum (leveled) performance is maintained. These
transition points exist at 10 dB from the top of a range and at +5 dB from the bottom of a range. This leaves
10 dB of operating range. By turning the RPG knob with
being the active function, you
can hear the attenuator switch as these transitions occur. See the specifications and characteristics chapter
in the reference guide for the analyzer’s power limits.
Manual mode
If you select , you must first enter the power ranges menu and manually select the
power range that corresponds to the power level you want to use. This is accomplished by pressing the
softkey and then selecting one of the eight available ranges. The active power will
always be reset to be within this range. In this mode, you will be able to select power levels above or below
the range limits. The factory limits on setting power level are +6 dB above the maximum range power and
12 dB below the minimum range power. Typical performance for power overrange is 2 dB above the
maximum (more at lower frequencies and less at higher frequencies) and typical under range is 6 dB. An
under-range condition may cause a phase lock lost message to be displayed.
When a calibration is active, the power range selection is switched from auto to manual mode, and PRm
appears on the display. This feature is necessary to maintain accuracy once a measurement calibration is
activated.
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