HP 5355A - User Manual

The HP 5355A Automatic Frequency Converter is a plug-in unit designed for use with the HP 5345A Electronic Counter, extending its frequency measurement capabilities. When combined with the 5345A, it offers frequency measurement from 0 to 1.6 GHz. For higher frequency measurements, the 5355A utilizes external frequency converter heads (5356A, 5356B, or 5356C) to extend the range up to 40 GHz.

Function Description:

The 5355A operates in two primary frequency ranges: 0.4 to 1.6 GHz and 1.5 to 40 GHz. Frequencies in the lower range are measured using a prescaler technique, while higher frequencies are measured using a harmonic heterodyne down-conversion technique with the external frequency converter heads. The unit automatically acquires and measures input CW or pulsed RF signals, routing the down-converted signal to the 5345A mainframe for counting and display, all controlled by its microprocessor algorithm.

Operating Modes:

The 5355A supports several operating modes, selectable via front panel pushbuttons:

• CW Mode: Automatically acquires, measures, and displays continuous wave signals upon power-up.
• Pulsed RF Mode: For reception of pulsed RF signals. Requires the GATE OUT connector on the 5355A rear panel to be connected to the GATE CONTROL INPUT on the 5345A rear panel.
• Manual Mode: Allows the user to enter a known input signal frequency (within 50 MHz) to decrease acquisition time.
• Offset Mode: Used to add or subtract a constant frequency (offset) to/from a measurement. This is useful for measuring radio frequencies by adding the IF to a local oscillator frequency.

Key Features:

• Automatic Frequency Conversion: Simplifies high-frequency measurements by automatically handling down-conversion.
• Wide Frequency Range: Extends the 5345A's capabilities from 0.4 GHz up to 40 GHz with appropriate converter heads.
• Automatic Amplitude Discrimination (CW Mode): The 5355A can acquire and display the highest level signal within its sensitivity range, provided it is at least 8 dB greater in amplitude than any other signal within 500 MHz and 20 dB greater than any signal over the full range. This helps in discriminating against spurious signals and harmonics.
• FM Tolerance: The unit can measure carrier frequencies with amplitude modulation. In auto mode, it provides an FM tolerance of 15 MHz peak-to-peak. A special FM mode increases this tolerance to 60 MHz peak-to-peak, though with slower acquisition time.
• AM Tolerance: Can measure carrier frequencies with amplitude modulation at any modulation index, provided the minimum signal level is above the counter sensitivity.
• HP-IB Programmability: The 5355A is fully programmable via the Hewlett-Packard Interface Bus (HP-IB), allowing remote control of all operating modes and integration into automated test systems. It operates in "Listen Only" mode, sending measurement data to the 5345A for output.

Important Technical Specifications (Model 5355A with 5356A/B/C Heads):

• Frequency Range:
  • 5355A: 0.4-1.6 GHz
  • 5356A: 1.5-18 GHz
  • 5356B: 1.5-26.5 GHz (Option 001: 18-26.5 GHz)
  • 5356C: 1.5-40 GHz (Option 001: 26.5-40 GHz)
• Sensitivity:
  • 0.4-1.6 GHz: -15 dBm
  • 1.5-12.4 GHz: -20 dBm (5356A/B), -25 dBm (5356C)
  • 12.4-18 GHz: -15 dBm (5356A/B), -20 dBm (5356C)
  • 18-26.5 GHz: -15 dBm (5356B), -20 dBm (5356C)
  • 26.5-34 GHz: -15 dBm (5356C)
  • 34-40 GHz: -10 dBm (5356C)
  • Note: For pulse widths <200 ns, reduce sensitivity by 5 dB.
• Maximum Input:
  • 0.4-1.6 GHz: +5 dBm
  • 1.5-12.4 GHz: +5 dBm (5356A/B/C)
  • 12.4-18 GHz: -5 dBm (5356A), +5 dBm (5356B/C)
  • 18-26.5 GHz: +5 dBm (5356B/C)
  • 26.5-40 GHz: +15 dBm (5356C)
  • Note: In Pulse Mode 1.5 to 5.0 GHz, 0 dBm (+5 dBm typical).
• Damage Level: +25 dBm peak (for converter heads), +24 dBm peak (for 5355A BNC connector).
• Impedance: 50Ω NOMINAL.
• SWR: Typically <2.5:1 (0.4-1.6 GHz), <2:1 to <5:1 depending on frequency range and head.
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C (changed to 55 degrees for all serials).
• Pulse Width (MIN):
  • 5355A: 150 ns (changed from 150ns)
  • 5356A/B/C AUTO MODE: 100 ns
  • 5356A/B/C MAN MODE: 75 ns (changed from 60ns)
• rms jitter: 65ns (changed from 40ns).
• Acquisition Time (TYPICAL):
  • 5356A/B: 400 ms (1.1s in special FM mode)
  • 5356C: 1.4s (option 001: 1.1s)
  • 5355A: <1 ms (FREQ ≥ 800 MHz), 5345A GATE TIME + 45 ms (FREQ <800 MHz)

Usage Features:

• Front Panel Controls: Pushbutton keys with center indicators for DATA ENTRY (Manual Freq, Offset Freq, Step) and MEASUREMENT (Manual Up/Up, Offset Dn/Dn, Reset, Set Last Meas, CW, Pulse, Dec Pt, Units).
• Input Selection: A front panel key (INPUT SELECT/CHANGE SIGN) switches between the 0.4-1.6 GHz BNC input (prescaler) and the RF HEAD INPUT (multipin connector for converter heads).
• Display: The 5345A mainframe displays measurement results, status, and error codes.
• Error Codes: Specific codes are displayed on the 5345A to indicate error conditions (e.g., wrong GATE CONTROL INPUT switch position, harmonic number n=0).
• Converter Codes: Upon power-up, the 5355A displays codes indicating which Frequency Converter Head (5356A, 5356B, 5356C, or their options) is installed.
• Special FM Mode: Activated by simultaneously pressing CW and PULSE keys, provides higher FM tolerance (60 MHz p-p) for signals with significant FM, but with slower acquisition.
• Continuous Calibration: Activated by simultaneously pressing CW and PULSE keys in pulse mode, continuously calibrates measurements.

Maintenance Features:

• Self-Test/Diagnostic Modes: The 5355A includes diagnostic modes accessible via front panel key combinations, allowing for self-check frequency displays, ratio of pulse width measurements, calibration factor displays, and synthesizer frequency resolution.
• Extender Board Kit (HP Part No. 05355-60100): Available for servicing printed circuit assemblies while extended from the instrument, facilitating monitoring with test equipment.
• Manual Changes Supplement: Instruments manufactured after the manual's printing may have a yellow supplement detailing differences and updates.
• Service Contracts/Extended Hardware Support: Option W30 provides two additional years of hardware-service support at the time of purchase. Service contracts are also available for instruments without this option.
• Original Packaging: Available for re-shipment through Hewlett-Packard Sales and Service Offices.
• Safety Considerations: The device is a Safety Class I instrument, and safety information is provided in the manual.

Compatibility:

• The 5355A is a plug-in unit for the HP 5345A Electronic Counter.
• The 5345A must be in EXT GATE mode for 5355A PULSE mode and INT GATE mode for 5355A CW mode. Newer 5345A models (Serial Prefix 1808A and higher) automatically select the correct gating mode. Older models (Serial Prefix 1744A and below) require manual selection or a minor modification.
• HP-IB compatibility: Uses metric threaded HP-IB cable mounting studs. Compatible with HP 10833A/B/C/D HP-IB cables.
• The 5355A operates in the Listen Only mode on the HP-IB.