SDR-Kits DG8SAQ VNWA 3 - User Manual

SDR-Kits, 129 Devizes Road, Trowbridge Wilts, BA14-7SZ, United Kingdom Orders@SDR-Kits.net
DG8SAQ VNWA 3 - Expansion board Manual v1.3
Fig 1. VNWA 3 Expansion Board fitted to VNWA 3 Main PCB
1. Introduction:
The DG8SAQ VNWA 3 Expansion Board is a small optional Printed Circuit Board which provides the
DG8SAQ Vector Network Analyzer with additional functionality as follows:
 2nd Audio Codec allowing S11 and S21 measurements to be performed in a single sweep
instead of 2 sweeps.
 2.7V Switched mode power supply for DDS Supply - USB power consumption reduced to from
0.41 Amp without Expansion board to 0.33 Amp despite additional power consumption of 2nd
Audio Codec on the Expansion board.
 RJ11 connector making the VNWA3 control signals and power accessible to the outside world
 Optional SMA connector to obtain the multiplied 12 MHz internal TCXO clock or to feed in an
external 36 MHz clock source.
This document describes how to fit the Expansion Board into the VNWA 3 and how to configure the
VNWA Software to obtain full performance.
2. Important Information
Copyright notice
The design of the VNWA 3 and Expansion Board is copyright by Thomas Baier DG8SAQ & SDR-Kits -
all rights reserved -
SDR-Kits VNWA 3 Expansion Board v1.3 - Copyright 2011-2013 by SDR-Kits Page 1 of 10

Summary

Introduction

Expansion Board Functionality

Provides additional functionality like 2nd Audio Codec, reduced USB power, RJ11 connector, and optional clock input/output.

Important Information

Copyright Notice

States the copyright holder and reserved rights for the VNWA 3 design.

Safety Information

Crucial safety warnings including compatibility, soldering, input voltage limits, and general precautions.

Product Documentation

Information on accessing the VNWA Application Helpfile and other product documentation.

VNWA 3 Expansion Board Installation Preparation

Kit Contents

Lists all components included in the VNWA 3 Expansion Board kit.

Tools Required

Details the necessary tools for installing the VNWA 3 Expansion Board.

Fitting VNWA 3 Expansion Board

VNWA Expansion Board Fittings

Covers general fitting procedures, including antistatic precautions and enclosure removal.

Panel Modifications for Connectors

Instructions for cutting holes in the rear panel for RJ11 and SMA connectors.

Spacer Installation

Guidance on fitting the provided spacers to the board.

Installation for Serial Numbers A2001-A2200 (Requires Soldering)

Steps for installing the board on older VNWA 3 units, including SIP connector soldering and resistor removal.

Installation for Serial Numbers A2201 and Higher (SIP Connectors Fitted)

Instructions for installing the board on newer VNWA 3 units with pre-fitted SIP connectors.

Commissioning & Configuring VNWA 3 Audio Codec

Initial Connection and System Monitoring

Connecting the VNWA 3 with Expansion Board to a PC and monitoring for system errors.

Software Setup and Calibration

Starting the VNWA application, configuring audio settings, and calibrating sample rates.

Signal Level Adjustment and Verification

Adjusting audio levels and verifying reference and reflected signals.

VNWA 3 Expansion Board Interface Information

External Connections: RJ11 Pinout

Details the RJ11 connector pinout, signal descriptions, and remarks.

Optional External Clock Input;Output

Information on fitting and using the SMA connector for external clock signals.

VNWA Reference Clock Output; External Clock Input Specification

Specifications for the internal clock output and external reference clock input.

Disposal and Certification

WEEE Disposal

Instructions for the proper disposal of waste electrical equipment.

CE Certification

Confirmation of CE certification and compliance with relevant directives.

SDR-Kits DG8SAQ VNWA 3 Specifications