ML2437A/38A OM/PM PN: 10585-00001 Rev. P 6-1
Chapter 6 — Procedures
This chapter presents some common procedures for use with the ML243xA Power Meter.
These procedures refer to the ML243xA front and rear panel connectors and front panel keys
and menus as explained in Chapter 3, Connections, and Chapter 4, Front Panel Operation.
The operator should be familiar with the front and rear panel layouts and with the use of the
keys and menus before attempting these procedures.
6-1 Power Measurement
To perform a power measurement, follow these steps:
1. Connect the sensor(s) as described in Chapter 3, Connections.
2. Configure the meter for the application. Refer to Chapter 4, Front Panel Operation, for
specific configuration options. The simplest operation is obtained with SENSOR >
SETUP > MODE set to DEFAULT. Power readings are continuous with the default
setting.
3. Zero the sensor(s) as described below.
4. Calibrate the sensor(s) as described on the following page.
5. Measure power.
6-2 Zeroing the Sensor
Zero the sensor before making power measurements, particularly when operating within the
lower 20 dB dynamic range of the power sensor. If frequent low level measurements are being
made, it is advisable to zero the sensor regularly.
To zero the sensor, connect it to the UUT (Unit Under Test) test port, and remove RF power
from the connection to a level 20 dB below the tangential noise floor of the power sensor. For
–70 to +20dBm dual-diode power sensors, this level is less than –100 dBm.
It is preferable to leave the sensor connected to the UUT test port so that ground noise and
thermal EMF are zeroed out of the measurement. Alternately, in order of preference, the
sensor can be connected to:
• A grounded connector on the UUT,
• The ML243xA Calibrator connector,
• Disconnected from any signal source.
When a new sensor is attached, the message SENSOR x NOT ZEROED (where x = A or B as
appropriate) is displayed. If a sensor is removed and then reconnected, the message is not
displayed.
The sensor can either be zeroed, or zeroed and calibrated in the same operation.
To zero the sensor without calibration, press the Cal/Zero front panel key and the Zero soft
key, then select the appropriate sensor.
Note that if only one sensor is connected, the A-B selection is not displayed and the zeroing
process begins immediately.
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