Ballantine 3440A - User Manual

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Summary

Instruction Manual for Model 3440 A RF Millivoltmeter

Limited Warranty

1. General Information

1-1. Introduction

Provides an overview of the Model 3440A RF Millivoltmeter, its features, and accessories.

1-2. Specifications for Model 3440 A

Details the technical specifications, including frequency range, response, and accuracy.

1-2.4 Crest Factor

Specifies the maximum permissible ratio of peak to RMS value of voltage.

1-2.5 Accuracy (Frequency Effects)

Details the maximum uncertainty due to frequency and temperature effects.

1-2.6 Temperature Effects (at 1 MHz)

Describes accuracy deviations based on ambient temperature and probe heater settings.

1-2.7 Meter

Describes the analog meter, scales, and dBm reference.

1-2.8 Indicator unrest

Specifies the meter pointer unrest for the 1 mV FS range.

1-2.9 Response Time and Overload Recovery

Details meter response times and recovery from overload conditions.

1-2.10 Detector Probe

Describes the detachable RF detector probe and its connector.

1-2.11 Probe Input Impedance

Provides typical input impedance values at specified temperatures.

1-2.12 Probe Input Shunt Capacitance at 100 kHz

Lists shunt capacitance values for different voltage ranges.

1-2.13 VSWR

Specifies VSWR limits for the probe with a non-loading 'T' connector.

1-2.14 Power Sensitivity

Defines the maximum input power required at a specific voltage.

1-2.15 Over Voltage

Specifies the probe's protection limits against over voltage.

1-2.16 DC Recorder Output

Describes the rear panel banana jacks for DC output.

1-2.17 Probe Balance

Details the probe null balance control for meter zero adjustment.

1-2.18 Relative References

Explains the REL REF control for sensitivity adjustment and relative readings.

1-2.19 Meter Response Time

Describes meter response times and the NORMAL/SLOW switch.

1-2.20 Environmental Characteristics

Lists operating and storage temperature, humidity, and altitude limits.

1-2.21 Safety

Specifies compliance with safety standards.

1-2.22 Power

Details AC operating voltage ranges and internal battery specifications.

1-2.23 Dimensions

Provides the physical dimensions and weight of the instrument.

1-3. Specifications for Option 40

Details specifications for Option 40 using the 34403A probe.

1-4. Additional Specifications for the Option 41 Low Frequency RF Probe

Provides specifications for the Option 41 low frequency RF probe.

1-5. Modifications, Options and Accessories

Lists available options, modifications, and accessories for the Model 3440A.

2. Installation

2-1. Introduction

Provides instructions for installation and shipping of the Model 3440A series Voltmeters.

2-2. Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Details the procedure for unpacking and inspecting the voltmeter.

2-3. Performance Checks

Outlines checks for mechanical and electrical condition upon receipt.

2-4. Power Requirements

Specifies AC voltage and frequency requirements for operation.

2-5. Grounding Requirements

Ensures safety by mandating earth grounding for the instrument.

2-6. Installation and Mounting

Provides guidelines for instrument installation and operating environment.

2-7. Bench Mounting

Describes how the instrument is set up for bench or portable use.

2-8. Short Term Storage

Instructions for storing the instrument for short periods.

2-9. Long Term Storage or Repackaging for Shipment

Provides detailed procedures for long-term storage or repackaging.

3. Operating Instructions

3-1. Introduction

Provides instructions for operating the Ballantine 3440 Series RF Millivoltmeters.

3-2. Controls, Indicators and Connectors

Identifies and describes the instrument's controls, indicators, and connectors.

3-3. Meter Mechanical Zero Adjustment

Details the procedure for adjusting the mechanical zero of the meter.

3-4. Power Requirements

Specifies AC line voltage and internal battery power requirements.

3-5. AC Voltage Measurements

Guides on performing AC voltage measurements.

3-5.1 Initial Operating Procedures

Outlines the initial steps before taking measurements.

3-6. Operating Notes

Provides important precautions and procedures for precise measurements.

3-7. Measurements Below 100 MHz

Instructions for taking measurements at frequencies below 100 MHz.

3-8. Measurements Below 250 MHz

Instructions for taking measurements at frequencies below 250 MHz.

3-9. Measurements Below 600 MHz

Instructions for taking measurements at frequencies below 600 MHz.

3-10. Measurements Beyond 1.2 GHz

Instructions for taking measurements at frequencies beyond 1.2 GHz.

3-11. Sources of Measurement Errors

Identifies common error sources and references for analysis.

3-12. Loading Errors

Explains loading errors and their impact on measurements.

3-13. Voltage Drop in Connecting Leads

Discusses voltage drop errors in connecting leads and coaxial connections.

3-14. Stray Field Pickup

Addresses errors caused by stray magnetic or electrostatic fields.

3-15. Transmission Line Effects

Explains transmission line effects, reflections, and VSWR.

3-16. Ground Current Errors

Discusses errors caused by ground currents, especially at high frequencies.

3-17. Response and Waveform Errors

Analyzes errors related to signal response and waveform distortion.

3-18. Noise Measurements

Provides guidance for accurate wideband noise measurements.

3-19. dB Measurements

Explains how to take dBm readings and convert them to other references.

3-20. Relative Reference Measurements

Describes the use of the REL REF control for relative readings.

3-21. AC to DC Converter

Details the procedure for using the AC to DC converter capability.

3-22. Temperature Effects

Discusses how temperature variations can affect calibration and meter zero.

4. Theory of Operation

4-1. Introduction

Provides a description of the circuitry used in the 3440 instrument.

4-2. Circuit Description

Refers to schematics for a complete description of the instrument's circuits.

4-3. RF Probe

Explains the function and characteristics of the RF probe.

4-4. Stabilized Input Amplifier

Describes the input amplifier configuration and its function.

4-5. Differential to Single-Ended Amplifier

Explains the conversion of differential signals to single-ended.

4-6. Square-Rooter Circuit

Details the square-rooter circuit for RMS response at low signal levels.

4-7. Linear Amplifier

Describes the linear amplifier stage and its gain stabilization.

4-8. Scale Linearizing and Ranging Network

Explains the network responsible for scale linearization and ranging.

4-9. Meter Drive Amplifier

Describes the meter drive amplifier stage and its filtering.

4-10. Range Select Logic

Explains the electronic range selection logic using FET switching.

4-11. Power Supply

Details the AC power supply and internal rechargeable battery operation.

5. Maintenance and Calibration

5-1. Introduction

Information required to maintain the 3440A voltmeter within specifications.

5-2. Recommended Test Equipment

Lists recommended test equipment for checking and calibrating the voltmeter.

5-3. Performance Assurance Checks

In-cabinet tests to compare the 3440A with applicable specifications.

5-3.1 Meter Mechanical Zero Adjust

Procedure to adjust the mechanical zero of the analog meter.

5-3.2 Calibration Accuracy Check

Tests for basic accuracy at 100 kHz or 1 MHz using a sine wave source.

5-3.3 High Frequency Response Check

Checks the instrument's frequency response at higher frequencies.

5-3.3.1 Response Checks to 600 MHz Using the Model 6340 A 50 Ohm Terminating Adapter

Procedure for checking response to 600 MHz with a 6340A adapter.

5-3.3.2 Response Checks to 1.2 GHz Using the Model 5340 A Tee and Precision 50 Ohm Termination

Procedure for checking response to 1.2 GHz with 5340A Tee and termination.

5-3.4 DC Output Check - Optional

Optional check for the DC output voltage accuracy.

5-3.5 Conclusion of Performance Checks

Confirms that performance assurance checks have been met.

5-4. Calibration and Alignment Procedure

Covers procedures for 'covers off' adjustments for performance specifications.

5-4.1 Removal of Covers

Instructions on how to safely remove the instrument covers.

5-4.5 Probe Calibration Repair

Details on repairing the RF signal probe, including diode replacement.

5-4.6 Probe Diode Heater Temperature Adjustment (R17)

Procedure to adjust the probe heater for optimal diode temperature.

5-4.7 Meter Mechanical Zero Adjustment

Procedure for adjusting the mechanical zero of the meter.

5-4.8 R10, Coarse Meter Zero Adjust.

Procedure for coarse adjustment of the meter zero.

5-4.9 R45, 3 V Range Zero Adjust.

Procedure to adjust the zero for the 3 V range.

5-4.10 R28, 30 MV Range Zero Adjust.

Procedure to adjust the zero for the 30 mV range.

5-4.11 R54, Square Rooter Zero Adjust.

Procedure to adjust the zero for the square rooter circuit.

5-4.12 R51, Linear Amplifier Adjust.

Procedure to adjust the linear amplifier output.

5-4.13 R48, Square Rooter Full Scale Adjust.

Procedure to adjust the full scale output of the square rooter.

5-4.14 R53, Square Root Half Scale Adjustment.

Procedure to adjust the half scale tracking of the square rooter.

5-4.15 R72, Meter Full Scale Adjust.

Procedure to adjust the full scale indication of the meter.

5-4.16 R90, Range Calibration Adjust.

Procedure to calibrate the 1.0 V range.

5-4.17 R68, DC Output Adjust.

Procedure to adjust the DC output amplitude.

5-4.18 R89, 300 MV Range Calibration Adjust.

Procedure to calibrate the 300 mV range.

5-4.19 R88, 100 MV Range Calibration Adjust.

Procedure to calibrate the 100 mV range.

5-4.20 R41, 30 MV Range Calibration Adjust.

Procedure to calibrate the 30 mV range.

5-4.21 R34, 1 MV Range Calibration Adjust.

Procedure to calibrate the 1 mV range.

5-4.22 R23, 3 MV Range Calibration Adjust.

Procedure to calibrate the 3 mV range.

5-4.23 R25, 10 MV Range Calibration Adjust.

Procedure to calibrate the 10 mV range.

5-4.24 1340 A 100:1 Divider Calibration Adjustment.

Procedure to calibrate the 1340A 100:1 divider.

5-5. Troubleshooting and Fault Finding

Procedures for diagnosing and fixing instrument problems.

5-5.1 Fuse Replacement

Instructions for replacing the AC power line fuse.

5-6. Preventive Maintenance

Guidance on cleaning and maintaining the instrument.

6. Parts Lists and Schematics

6-1. Parts

Information on ordering replacement parts from Ballantine Laboratories.

6-2. Mechanical Parts Lists

List of mechanical parts with Ballantine part numbers.

Ballantine 3440A Specifications

General

Brand	Ballantine
Model	3440A
Category	Measuring Instruments
Language	English

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