Two Proportional Voltage Outputs
Two analog voltage outputs proportional to RF input power are provided
on the rear panel. The Recorder Output offers the full 50 dB
dynamic range of the instrument in the dB mode at 1 volt/decade for
wide range power measurements. In the Watts mode this output provides
0 to 5 V linear voltage proportional to the RF input power.
The fast Levelling Output provides 1 V per range for effective power
levelling of sweepers or signal sources. The calibration and linearity
correction data from the sensor are traded off for a fast response. For
semi-automated testing, a rear panel BLANKING output is provided
to turn off a source or sweep
generator during AUTO ZERO operation
of the meter.
Ease of Use
With its conventional calculator style keyboard, changing parameters
is both precise and obvious to the new user. Displayed units may be
either linear (mW) or logarithmic (dBm). Applications which require
circuit adjustments to optimise output or tune for a null are conveniently
achieved with the analog meter. Automatic signal averaging is
provided as well as auto ranging. The power meter selects the most
appropriate amount of averaging in conjunction with the range in use.
External DC Operation
For operation in remote locations and for certain military applications
an optional external DC supply input is available. Any voltage within
the range 11 to 32 volts can be accepted, operation from a vehicle DC
supply is thus possible.
Optimum Noise Operation
For applications needing a fast response on a sensitive range, the user
can trade off resolution for speed by entering a lower average number.
The 6960B accepts average numbers between 1 and 256, so optimum
noise reduction or required response time are always available.
Non-Volatile Memory
Nine non-volatile stores are available for storing complete instrument
settings.
Maximum Hold
Long term drift measurements are easily made with the ‘maximum
hold’ facility which enables the maximum value of a changing signal
to be retained.
Automatic Sensor Recognition
The power meter contains a special sensor recognition circuit so that
the correct scaling is selected automatically when the power sensor is
connected.
GPIB Operation
6960B has been specifically designed with the requirements of the
ATE system designer in mind. The GPIB interface has been optimized
both in terms of hardware and software allowing greater speed
in measurements with selectable resolution. Up to 40 readings per
second are possible. The GPIB program codes feature simple
mnemonics, requiring either a single digit number entry with no terminator
or floating point entry requiring a terminator.
Six Trigger Modes
Specific GPIB program codes include TR-trigger mode. This sets
the trigger mode or starts a measurement after a hold condition. Up
to six trigger modes are available from the 6960B, from free running
fast to an immediate trigger with settling time then hold.
SRQ Response
To the system user, the SRQ response is always important and in the
6960B the SRQs have been arranged to form a mask with each SRQ
option having a binary weighting: 1 on end of measurement, 2 on
error, 4 on end of GPIB operation. SRQ option 4 is useful to inform
the controller that the requested GPIB operation such as Autozero
has been executed.
Self-Test
Self-test is initiated when the instrument is switched on and the
validity of the information in the non-volatile memory is automatically
checked. The LCD alpha-numerics and annunciators can also be
verified using a coded key press.
Reliability
The 6960 series has a proven record of high reliability. Data from
service records show its actual mean time between failures (MTBF)
to exceed 120,000 hours. Conservative component ratings, liquid
crystal display and switch mode power supply for low internal heat
generation, contribute to this excellent reliability. Consequently, a two
year warranty is offered as standard with an optional third year warranty
available at the time of initial order.
Fast and Easy Servicing
To make servicing easy and fast, careful thought has led to a simple
arrangement of components and adjustments. Selective key switch
operations can access the filter and digital to analog converters to
check their operation, eliminating the need for a range calibrator.
The only test equipment required to assist servicing is a countertimer,
digital voltmeter and screwdriver.
Low Cost of Ownership
Due to the modular design with good accessibility, mean time to
repair (MTTR) is just 20 minutes thus keeping the cost of ownership
low for the entire life of the instrument.
SPECIFICATION
FREQUENCY RANGE
30 kHz to 46 GHz depending on sensor used.
POWER RANGE
–70 dBm (100 pW) to +44 dBm (25 W) depending on sensor used.
POWER REFERENCE
0 dBm (1 mW), 50 MHz, Type N female precision connector, 50 Ù.
Adapters are supplied for other connectors with the power sensor.
Uncertainty
±0.7% traceable to National Standards.
Accuracy
±1.2% worst case for one year.
DISPLAY
Four digit LCD.
Over-range, Remote, Peak, Under-range, dB, dBm, dB REL, nW to kW,
Zero.
INSTRUMENTATION ACCURACY
Watts mode dBm mode dB REL mode
±0.5%. ±0.02 dB. ±0.02 dB.
ZERO
Set ±1% of FSD on most sensitive range.
