4-42 Service Guide N5230-90014
Troubleshooting PNA Series Microwave Network Analyzers
Measurement System Troubleshooting N5230A
Checking the Signal Separation Group
Before checking the signal separation group, perform the following procedures:
• “Getting Ready to Test” on page 4-36
Checking the Output Power of the A and B Signals
Using a power meter, you can measure the outputs of the A and B signals from the front 
panel. The measurement results will help you isolate a faulty assembly. The outputs of the 
R1 and R2 channels cannot be measured because it would necessitate breaking the phase 
lock loop, causing all of the signals to be lost.
Equipment Used for These Tests
Equipment Setup
1. Before starting these checks, zero and calibrate the power meter. (See the power meter 
user’s guide for instructions on setting the calibration factor.)
2. If the 
Receiver Display (Figure 4-9) is not on the analyzer screen, perform the following: 
On the 
System menu, point to Service, Utilities, and then click Receiver Display.
3. Set the sweep speed for a 10 second sweep: On the Sweep menu, click Sweep Time and 
set the time to 10.000 seconds in the 
Sweep Time box.
Checking Port 1 Power (A Signal)
The object of this check is to verify the power of the A signal across the entire frequency 
range. Perform this test if there is an observed problem only with the channel A trace. The 
ten second sweep is slow enough to allow you to observe the output power on the power 
meter as the sweep occurs. 
1. Connect the power sensor to Port 1.
2. Observe the power reading on the power meter as the sweep occurs on the analyzer.
3. The measured output power on the power meter should be approximately 0 dBm over 
the entire frequency range.
• If the measured power is correct, go to “Checking the Receiver Group” on page 4-45. 
• If the measured power is not correct, go to “Checking the Signal through the Signal 
Separation Path” on page 4-43.
Equipment Type
Models
Used With
Model or 
Part Number
Alternate Model or 
Part Number
Power meter All E4418B/E441B E4418A/E4419A
Power sensor, 3.5 mm All E8485A None
Adapter, 3.5 mm (f) to 3.5 mm (f) All 83059B 85052-60012