The general procedure for using the guided setup is relatively simple:
1. If a previously used mixer setup exists that is of interest, it may be imported first.
2. Decide on the type of sweep needed (frequency or power)
3. Decide on the frequency plan for the DUT addressing the following parameters as required:
• What are the Input, LO and Output Frequencies.
• Which mixer ports are swept and which are fixed.
• If downconversion is used, is it USB (upper side band) or LSB (lower side band).
• What are the power levels.
4. Decide on the number of points needed and what X-Axis labeling is desired (input or output frequency in the case of a frequency sweep)
5. Enter the guided setup dialog and input the desired parameters. Auto can be used to help with the frequency entry.
6. Exit the dialog by selecting the OK button. If not successful (i.e., the error checking of your entries indicated a problem), return and fix the errors. When successful, proceed to configure your desired measurements.
Note that when one successfully leaves the dialog, the channel will be setup in converting mode (sourcing at the input frequency and the receiver tuned to the output). If one wishes to perform some non-converting measurements, proceed to multiple source control and put the receiver and source equations where desired. In the dialog of Figure: Multiple Source Screen After Successful Guided Mixer Setup, if one wanted to measure input match or input-to-output isolation, change the receiver and receiver source equations to 1/1(f+0 GHz).
After using the guided setup, one may find that one wants to change or optimize some settings. One can always return to the dialog and try again. For more advanced modifications, one can also proceed to the multiple source dialog (see Multiple Source Control (Option 007)) and edit all of the equations manually. This multiple source system is automatically populated with the mixer settings when one leaves the guided setup so one can perform more extensive modifications later. This includes the possibility of changing to a harmonic converter or a multiple conversion setup. As shown in Figure: Multiple Source Screen After Successful Guided Mixer Setup, a button labeled Mixer Mode has been added to the screens shown in Multiple Source Control (Option 007). This mode enables the extra mixer calibration options available on the calibration menus and the linkage to the guided setup and wizard dialogs.
The reader may have noticed the Enable Modular BB check box in the setup dialog. This check box enables the internal frequency plans for use with the MA25300A or 3743x mm-wave modules for extended frequency range. Generally, this enables the VNA source and receivers to reach 125 GHz (requires opt 08X, the 3739X test set, and the appropriate mm-wave modules). The same setup controls apply.
Multiple Source Screen After Successful Guided Mixer Setup
The multiple source screen after a successful guided mixer setup execution is shown here. Note the Mixer Mode button which is not present in traditional multiple source control modes.
