The frequency converter application (FCA, Option 083), provides vector measurements of mixers and frequency converters, with intuitive, easy-to-use tabbed dialogs and guided calibrations. The user interface supports devices with one or two conversion stages. FCA includes two methods for measuring conversion gain/loss, phase, and absolute group delay, as well as input and output match. The scalar mixer/converter plus phase (SMC+Phase) measurement class is the easiest to use, as the need for reference and calibration mixers is eliminated. Calibration is achieved with a combination of a power meter, comb generator (U9391C/F/G), and an ECal module or mechanical calibration kit. The power meter assures the highest accuracy for conversion gain/loss measurements.
The vector mixer/converter (VMC) measurement class is useful for measuring the phase difference between multiple paths or devices, or for measuring phase shifts within a device. It also can measure absolute group delay. VMC requires a reference mixer and a reciprocal calibration mixer. These mixers are specific to each test configuration and must be acquired separately.
Both measurement classes can be used in conjunction with Option 084 for measurements of converters with fully embedded local oscillators (LOs).
FCA controls the network analyzers built-in source(s) as well as external signal generators for use as CW or swept LO signals. Supported external sources include the ESG, EXG, MXG, and PSG series signal generators. Power meters including USB sensors are also controlled during calibration.