The HP 5344S Source Synchronizer is designed to enhance the frequency accuracy and stability of scalar measurements when used with the HP 8756A Scalar Network Analyzer and the HP 8350B Sweep Oscillator. This system can phase lock the sweeper output to a time base that is stable to within 5 parts in 10E-10 per day, significantly improving measurement precision.
Function Description:
The HP 5344S system comprises two main parts: a microwave frequency counter (either an HP 5342A or HP 5343A) and the HP 5344A microwave source synchronizer. It enables phase locking of a signal source, such as the sweeper, with 1 Hz resolution across a broad frequency range. For the HP 5342A counter, this range is 500 MHz to 18 GHz, and for the HP 5343A counter, it extends from 500 MHz to 26.5 GHz.
The system supports four measurement modes:
- CW (Continuous Wave): For single-frequency measurements, where the HP 8756A displays magnitude at a fixed frequency. The sweeper generates a sweep ramp for display, but both the sweeper and synchronizer are fixed at one CW frequency.
- CF/ΔF (Center Frequency/Frequency Span): For narrowband locked sweeps up to 40 MHz wide. Users set a center frequency and a frequency span.
- STRT/STOP (Start/Stop Frequency): Similar to CF/ΔF, but users define start and stop frequencies for narrowband locked sweeps.
- LK/R (Lock and Roll): For wideband "lock and roll" sweeps. In this mode, the HP 5344S inhibits the HP 8350B sweep until phase lock is achieved at the start frequency, then releases the sweeper to sweep on its own. This reduces frequency error to the linearity of the sweeper.
The HP 5344S also offers advanced features like subharmonic/offset locking and AUTO LOCK. Subharmonic/offset locking can simplify RF measurement hardware by allowing the counter to sample the plug-in's AUX OUTPUT, eliminating the need for external power splitters or couplers and enabling the use of the HP 8350B's internal modulation. AUTO LOCK automates the sweeper setup during the locking process.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Frequency Resolution: 1 Hz when phase locked.
- Frequency Range:
- With HP 5342A counter: 500 MHz - 18 GHz.
- With HP 5343A counter: 500 MHz - 26.5 GHz.
- Time Base Stability: Within 5 parts in 10E-10 per day.
- Narrowband Sweep Width: Up to 40 MHz.
- Sweep Time: Minimum 100 ms for locked sweeps.
- HP-IB Connectivity: Essential for AUTO LOCK mode and for communication between the 8756 System Interface and the 8350B.
Usage Features:
- Manual Lock Mode: Requires manual entry of frequency information on both the HP 5344S and HP 8350B. The sweeper must be set to operate within 25 MHz of the desired lock frequency. "LOCKED" annunciator indicates successful lock.
- Auto Lock Mode: Automates the setup of the HP 8350B's mode and frequency via HP-IB. Requires an HP-IB connection from the HP 5344S to the HP 8350B, sacrificing the 8756 System Interface's advantages. The SYS CONT switch on the HP 5344A must be set to "1" (CONT annunciator on).
- Subharmonic/Offset Locking:
- Subharmonic Locking: Used when the sweeper plug-in employs a frequency multiplier. The HP 5344S automatically calculates multipliers for integer values from 1 to 4. Higher values must be entered manually.
- Offset Locking: Used with HP 83590 series RF plug-ins in low-frequency ranges (e.g., 10 MHz to 2.4 GHz). Requires manual entry of the offset frequency (e.g., 3.8 GHz) on the counter.
- Advantages: Samples AUX OUTPUT, extending phase lock range, and allows internal 27.8 kHz square wave modulation.
- Sweeper Marker Counting (with HP 5343A Opt. 43): In LK/R mode, sweeper markers can be accurately counted using the sweeper interface function. This allows precise frequency determination at specific points on the trace. Markers can be positioned using the HP 8350B knob, and the counter will display the marker frequency.
- Display Signals: The HP 5344S generates display signals (SWEEP OUT, Z AXIS OUT) for the HP 8756A in narrowband locked sweeps. In CW and LK/R modes, it can pass signals from the HP 8350B.
- Error Messages: The HP 5344A displays error messages for various issues, such as invalid frequency measurements, out-of-range frequencies, or incorrect settings. A comprehensive list is provided in Appendix II of the manual.
Maintenance Features:
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a detailed list of error messages and their corresponding descriptions, aiding in diagnosing and resolving issues. For example, "Err 05" indicates the CW filter is enabled, which is incompatible with phase lock.
- Configuration Flexibility: The system supports various hardware configurations, allowing users to adapt to different measurement needs. For instance, display signals can be routed directly from the HP 8350B to the HP 8756A in CW mode if the HP 5344A's front panel connections are not needed.
- Documentation: The manual references other relevant HP documents, such as operating and service manuals for the HP 5344S, HP 8756A, and HP 8350B, as well as product notes, to provide comprehensive support.
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