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Description, Accurate transfer of nist standard – Atec Agilent-U9391C-F-G User Manual

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The U9391C/F/G comb generators were developed to provide precision phase
calibration, referenced to the National Institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST) standard, for non-linear measurements using the PNA-X nonlinear vector
network analyzer (NVNA)

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. NVNA component characterization software

converts a 4-port PNA-X with Option 510 into an innovative, high-performance,
non-linear network analyzer which uses U9391C/F/G comb generators as a
precision phase calibration standard. Comb generators generate frequency
harmonics at integer multiples from an RF input signal. Generally, comb
generators available in the open market today are made with SRD diodes,
U9391C/F/G comb generators are based on Agilent InP MMIC technology

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to

ensure superior phase stability of the combs.

U9391C/F/G modules are solid state devices which provide excellent phase and
amplitude flatness in the combs making them ideal for use in phase calibration
applications. A built-in frequency divider, selectable via the PNA-X, reduces the
noise of the combs. You can set drive frequency at 1, 2 , 4, 8 or 16 times the
pulse repetition frequency (PRF). Combining a frequency divider with a wide
input signal frequency range allows for a broad range of possible harmonics
spacing, making this suitable for characterizing non-linear devices. This
module has a trigger output which enables synchronization with the pulse’s
repetition frequency. Calibration data stored inside the U9391C/F/G can be
accessed directly by the PNA-X via the USB interface for phase calibration. The
comb generator comes with the option of female or male output connectors.

Agilent’s new patented-pending comb generators offers the advantage of wide
bandwidth output (10 MHz - 26.5 GHz, 10 MHz to 50 GHz, and 10 MHz to 67 GHz)
and small minimum tone spacing (10 MHz). When driven by low phase noise
sources, this comb generator will operate at frequencies lower than 10 MHz,
but performance is not guaranteed. The input power and fundamental frequency
have lower sensitivity than other comb generators. This means a comb genera-
tor calibrated at a single power level and frequency can be used across a wide
range of input power levels and frequencies.

Agilent characterizes the U9391C/F/G comb generators’ phase standard using
a precision calibration technique that is traceable to NIST. Each comb generator’s
amplitude and phase data is stored in the module’s memory. The N5242A-510
NVNA component characterization software uses the phase data from the
U9391C/F/G to calculate the non-linear error terms for the PNA-X network
analyzers.

Description

Accurate transfer
of NIST standard

1. NOTE: The U9391C/F/G was designed for use with the PNA-X ONLY.

2. Indium phosphide monolithic microwave integrated circuit