Functions and Measurements 3
N9342C/43C/44C User’s Guide 57
external zeroing for input signals below -30 dBm.
Making a Basic Average Power Measurement
To make an average power measurement, connect
the power sensor and cable, zero and calibrate the
meter, before making a measurement.
Zeroing of the Power Meter will occur
automatically:
• Every time the Power Meter function is used.
• When a 5 degree C. change in instrument
temperature occurs.
• Whenever the power sensor is changed.
• Every 24 hours (min.).
• Before measuring low level signals -for example,
10 dB above the lowest specified power the
power sensor is capable of.
Calibrate the Power Meter every time you cycle the
power on and off.
In most situations, you can press {Zero} to complete
the two steps (zero and cal) together.
NOTE
If you suspect other signals may be present, it is
recommended that you turn off all the other channels and
measure average power only on the signal of interest.
Another option is to measure channel power (which is
less accurate), that filters out all other channels (signals).
You can measure channel power for CDMA using the
CDMA Analyzer or CDMA Over Air tool. For other
modulation formats, use their respective analyzers (that is,
GSM, 1xEV-DO, or W-CDMA) or measure channel power
using either the spectrum analyzer or the Channel Scanner
tool.
NOTE
Connect the power meter as close as possible to the
power amplifier/duplexer output. Do not use a coupled
port. Sensors may not be as accurate at the power levels
provided by coupled ports.