Anritsu VectorStar ME7838A User manual

Quick Start Guide
VectorStar™ME7838A
2-Port Broadband/Banded
Millimeter-Wave System
High Performance Modular Broadband/Banded Millimeter-Wave
Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) Measurement System, 70 kHz to 125 GHz
v
ME7838A BB/mm-Wave VNA System – MS4647B VNA, 3739C Test Set, 3743A Modules
B
Anritsu Company
490 Jarvis Drive
Morgan Hill, CA 95037-2809
USA
http://www.anritsu.com
Part Number: 10410-00292
Revision: E
Published: December 2019
Copyright 2019 Anritsu Company. All rights reserved.

QSG-2 PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E VectorStar ME7838A QSG
High Performance Modular Broadband/Banded Millimeter-Wave
Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) Measurement System, 70 kHz to 125 GHz
This guide provides quick setup instructions for the ME7838A Broadband/Banded mm-Wave VNA System
assembly. For additional safety and compliance information, and for more details about the assembly,
configuration, setup, and initial testing of the equipment, refer to the VectorStar™ ME7838A Series
Broadband Vector Network Analyzers Installation Guide – 10410-00293.
This and all other documentation that supports the ME7838A is available on the VectorStar product web page:
http://www.anritsu.com/en-us/products-solutions/products/ms4640b-series.aspx
On this web page, you can select various tabs for more information about your instrument. Included is a
“Library” tab which contains links to all the latest technical documentation related to this instrument.
ME7838A Broadband System Main Components
The ME783A Multiport Broadband system consists of the following components:
•MS4647A or MS4647B VNA with Option 007 (Receiver Offset) and Option 08x (Modular Broadband
Connection Capability)
•3739B/C Broadband Test Set
•Two 3743A Millimeter-Wave Modules
•Front and rear panel cables
ME7838A Banded System Main Components
The ME7838A Multiport Banded system consists of the following components:
•MS464xA/B VNA with Option 08x
•3739B/C Broadband Test Set
•Two 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW, or two OML/VDI Millimeter-Wave Modules
•Front and rear panel cables
Caution
A MS464xA/B VNA unit is heavy. To avoid personal injury, it must be lifted and
maneuvered by at least two people during installation.
If mounting on a workbench surface, first position the 3739C Broadband Test Set
with access to its front and rear panels. Stack the remaining test sets on top of one
another, then finally the VNA.
If mounting into rack or console, make sure the Test Sets have been installed, and
that the rack/console is carefully positioned on a flat and level surface. If equipped,
make sure any casters are locked. Use two people to lift the VNA unit and two to
guide it into its shelf rails.
The test loops on the front and rear panels of the VNA are delicate. Be careful not to
bump or bend the test loops.

VectorStar ME7838A QSG PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E QSG-3
Installing Rear Panel Cables (MS464xA VNA)
This section focuses on installing cables when using a MS464xA VNA. Start the ME7838A assembly by placing
the 3739B/C Broadband Test Set so you can access the rear panel for cable connection.
At the rear panels connect the cables as shown in Figure 1 and Table 1.
Warning To avoid injury, use two or more people to lift the MS464xA VNA to the top of the 3739B/C Test Set.
Caution
To avoid connector damage or inaccurate measurements, before making any connections, ensure
the connectors are clean, undamaged, and meet pin depth specification. Observe connector torque
requirements where indicated in this guide.
Figure 1 Install Rear Panel Cables between 3739B/C Test Set and MS464xA VNA
WARNING
No operator service-
able parts inside.
Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
Ext
Alc
Out
Ext
Analog
In
a1ba2b2
IF Outputs
External I/O
~ LINE INPUT
47-63 Hz
85-240 VAC
150 VA Max
Fuse 250V 2A T
CAUTION
Do not operate with
power cord ungrounded.
CAUTION
For continued fire protection
replace only with specified
type and rated fuse.
Cable Length
Standard Extended
Module Interface
MS464xA VNA
1
2
3
4
6
7
10
11
8
9
3739B/C Test Set
Ext Analog Out Ext ALC External I/O
Ext ALC Out
5
6
b1 IF a2 IF a1 IF b2 IF
Ext Analog In External I/O
333
4
5 Module Interface
Cable Length Switch
3739C-003 Option Only
12

QSG-4 PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E VectorStar ME7838A QSG
Table 1. ME78383A Cable Rear Panel Connections (MS464xA VNA)
Part Number Index Description From VNA Location
To 3739B/C Test Set
Location
MS464xA VNA 1
3739B/C Test Set 2
73598-1 a
(5 cable bundle)
a. Tighten each cable in this group using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
3 IF Interface Cables
a1 IF
b1 IF
a2 IF
b2 IF
a1 IF
b1 IF
a2 IF
b2 IF
4 External I/O Cable External I/O External I/O
3-806-225 5 BNC (M-M) Cable VNA Ext Analog Out Test Set EXT ANALOG
IN
3-806-225 6 BNC (M-M) Cable VNA Ext ALC Test Set EXT ALC OUT
GPIB Cable
(Not supplied) 7Cable for programmatic control
IEEE 488.2 GPIB (For remote
controlling ME7838) NA
GPIB Cable
(Not supplied) 8Cable for programmatic control
Dedicated GPIB (For
controlling peripherals such as
Power Meter)
NA
Ethernet Cable
(Not supplied) 9
Cable for
programmatic control Ethernet Port NA
USB Type B Cable
(Not supplied)
Cable for
programmatic control USB Port (2) NA
– 10 AC Power Cord AC Power Input NA
– 11 AC Power Cord NA AC Power Input
– 12 Module Interface Cable Length Switch (Included with 3739C-003 Option)

VectorStar ME7838A QSG PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E QSG-5
Installing Rear Panel Cables (MS464xB VNA)
This section focuses on installing cables when using a MS464xB VNA. Start the ME7838A assembly by placing
the 3739B/C Broadband Test Set so you can access the rear panel for cable connection. Start the ME7838A
assembly by placing the 3739B/C Broadband Test Set so you can access the rear panel for cable connection.
At the rear panels connect the cables as shown in Figure 1 and Table 4.
Warning To avoid injury, use two or more people to lift the MS464xB VNA to the top of the 3739B/C Test Set.
Caution
To avoid connector damage or inaccurate measurements, before making any connections, ensure
the connectors are clean, undamaged, and meet pin depth specification. Observe connector torque
requirements where indicated in this guide.
Figure 2 Install Rear Panel Cables between 3739B/C Test Set and MS464xB VNA
WARNING
No operator service-
able parts inside.
Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
Ext
Alc
Out
Ext
Analog
In
a1ba2b2
IF Outputs
External I/O
~ LINE INPUT
47-63 Hz
85-240 VAC
150 VA Max
Fuse 250V 2A T
CAUTION
Do not operate with
power cord ungrounded.
CAUTION
For continued fire protection
replace only with specified
type and rated fuse.
Cable Length
Standard Extended
Module Interface
Ext In ALC 2
(With Option 031)
6
Ext In ALC 1
(No Option 031)
6
MS464xB VNA
3739C Test Set
1
2
34
7
10
11
8
9
b1 IF a2 IF a1 IF b2 IF
Ext Analog Out
External I/O
Ext Analog In
Ext ALC Out
External I/O
333
5
6
4
5 Module Interface
Cable Length Switch
3739C-003 Option Only
12

QSG-6 PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E VectorStar ME7838A QSG
Table 2. ME78383 Cable Rear Panel Connections (MS464xB VNA)
Part Number Index Description From VNA Location
To 3739B/C Test Set
Location
MS464xA/B VNA 1
3739B/C Test Set 2
73598-1 a
(5 cable bundle)
a. Tighten each cable in this group using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
3 IF Interface Cables
a1 IF
b1 IF
a2 IF
b2 IF
a1 IF
b1 IF
a2 IF
b2 IF
4 External I/O Cableb
b. Tighten the connector screws with a flat blade screwdriver.
External I/O External I/O
3-806-225 5 BNC (M-M) Cable Ext Analog Out Test Set EXT ANALOG
IN
3-806-225 6 BNC (M-M) Cable Ext In ALC 1 (without Option 031)
Ext In ALC 2 (with Option 031) Test Set EXT ALC OUT
GPIB Cable
(Not supplied) 7Cable for program- matic control
IEEE 488.2 GPIB (for remote con-
trolling ME7838) NA
GPIB Cable
(Not supplied) 8Cable for program- matic control
Dedicated GPIB (For controlling
peripherals such as Power Meter) NA
Ethernet Cable
(Not supplied) 9
Cable for program-
matic control Ethernet Port NA
USB Type B Cable
(Not supplied)
Cable for program-
matic control USB Port (2) NA
– 10 AC Power Cordc
c. Do not yet connect to AC power cords to the AC source.
AC Power Input NA
– 11 AC Power CordcNA AC Power Input
– 12 Module Interface Cable Length Switch (Included with 3739C-003 Option)

VectorStar ME7838A QSG PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E QSG-7
Installing Front Panel Cables
Connect the front panel cables between the VNA and the 3739B/C Test Set, and between the Test Set and the
millimeter-Wave modules as shown below and as described in Table 3.
Example MS464xA/B VNA equipped with Option 051, 061, or 062 with included Front Panel Loops
Note: The cables for Test Port 1 to Module SRC (key 8 to 9) and Test Port 2 to Module SRC (key12 to13) are not
used with mm-Wave modules 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW, or 3744A-Rx.
Figure 3 Front Panel Cables between 3739B/C Test Set, MS464xA/B VNA, and Modules
+27 dBm MAX AVOID STATIC DISCHARGE
ALL PORTS: CAUTION
Standby Operate
Frequency
Power
Sweep
Avg
Response
Display
Scale
Marker
Channel
Trace
Measurement
Calibration
Application
File
System
Help
Preset
RF, LO, Test, Ref,
and Pwr/Signal to
Port 1
Module
Test Port 1
to Module SRC (3743A only)
Test Port 2
to Module SRC (3743A only)
RF, LO, Test, Ref,
and Pwr/Signal to
Port 2
Module
1
2
3 4
11
6
5
9
10
12
7
8
13

QSG-8 PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E VectorStar ME7838A QSG
Table 3. ME78383A Cable Interconnect Part Numbers and Locations
Part Number Index Description
Connection
From
Connection
To
MS464xA/B
VNA
1
3739B/C Test
Set
2
67357-xx
(See Note 1)
3 Semi-Rigid (KM-KM) Cable
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end
wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
VNA RF Test Set RF
67357-xx
(See Note 1)
4 Semi-Rigid (KM-KM) Cable
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end
wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
VNA LO1 Test Set LO1
67357-xx
(See Note 1)
5 Semi-Rigid (KM-KM) Cable
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end
wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
VNA LO2 Test Set LO2
75685-1
6-7,
10-11
mm-Wave Module Interface Cables
(for 3743A, 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW modules)
Group of 5 cables for each port
Test Set
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF, LO, Test, Ref,
Power/Signal
Module
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF, LO, Test, Ref,
Power/Signal
75685-2
OML Module Interface Cables
Group of 4 cables for each port
Test Set
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF, LO, Test, Ref
Module
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF, LO, Test IF,
Ref IF
VDI Module Interface Cables
Group of 4 cables for each port
Test Set
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF, LO, Test, Ref
Module
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF Input, LO
Input, Meas. IF,
Ref IF
75685-3
mm-Wave Module Interface Cables
(for 3744A-Rx modules)
Group of 3 cables
Test Set
(Port 1, Port 2)
LO, Test,
Power/Signal
Module
(Port 1, Port 2)
LO, Test,
Power/Signal
806-2xx-R a
(See Note 2)
8-9,
12-13 Coaxial Cable VNA (Port 1, Port 2)
mmWave module
(Port 1, Port 2)
Cable Selection Notes
Note 1
Cable Selection Description
67357-13 Standard (Non-Rack Mount)
67357-67 3739B-001 or 3739C-001 Rack Mount
Option
Note 2
Cable Selection Description
806-206-R 24 in, 1.85 mm M-F coaxial cable
806-209-R 36 in, 1.85 mm M-F coaxial cable
a. The 806-2xx-R Coaxial Cable is not included or required when using the 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW mm-Wave modules, or the
3744A-Rx Receiver Module.

VectorStar ME7838A QSG PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E QSG-9
Millimeter-Wave Module Connections
Connect the 3739B/C Broadband Test Set Port-1 and Port-2 cables to the 3743A, 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW, or
3744A-Rx Modules as shown below, observing the correct torque limits for each connector. See Figure 4 and
Table 4. Route the cable assemblies through the cable restraint.
Inverting a Module
If necessary, a module can be turned over in the bracket to change the height of the DUT connector. To turn
the module over:
1. Remove the six Knurled Head M2 × 8 mm Thumbscrews from the module.
2. Turn the module over.
3. Install the cable assembly.
4. Install the module into the bracket and then install the thumbscrews.
Note
For ease of connection, the module can be removed from the bracket, then reinstalled after cables
are secured. Observe torque instructions where indicated.
Each module (except the 3744A-Rx) is characterized for absolute power for a specific VNA Serial
Number and VNA Test Port as designated on the module port assignment label. Ensure the module
matches the correct VNA and Test Set port.
If an alternative 3743A mm-Wave module is used there will be approximately 1 dB of absolute power
inaccuracy which can be corrected by performing a power calibration.
For more detailed information on the modules including DUT Waveguide (WG) connection alignment
and custom bracket mounting, refer to 10410-00311-VectorStar® Broadband/Banded
Millimeter-Wave Modules Reference Manual.
Figure 4 Millimeter-Wave Module Connections
TEST
LO
Power/Signal
RF
REF
SRC (Not used)
3743A
TEST REF
S/N
SRC
LO
Power/Signal
Port Assignment
RF
(Not used) (Not used)
(Not used)
3744A-Rx
3744A-EE
3743A
TEST REF
SRC
RF
Power/Signal
1234
LO 6
5
9
7
8
3744A-EW
11
10

QSG-10 PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E VectorStar ME7838A QSG
Millimeter-Wave Module Operating Environment
The following notes should be observed when operating the 3743A and 3744A-xx Millimeter-Wave Modules:
•The modules require use of heatsink with adequate air circulation. Thermal heat sinking similar to the
supplied mounting brackets of the modules should be considered in custom mounting applications.
•Each 3743A Module consumes a maximum of 12 watts.
•Each 3744A-EE and 3744A-EW Module consumes a maximum of 12 watts.
•Each 3744A-Rx Module consumes a maximum of 7 watts.
•The primary heat sinking path for the module is on the two external side surfaces used to mount to the
support brackets.
•With the attached cable mounting brackets, the case temperature rise is approximately 15 °C to 20 °C
above ambient.
Table 4. Millimeter-Wave Module Connections
Cable P/N Index Description
N/A 1 Millimeter-Wave Module in bracket
N/A 2
W1 – 1 mm Connector (3743A, 3744A-Rx modules)
• Tighten using a torque end wrench and a plain end wrench
• 6 mm Torque End Wrench set to 0.45 N·m (4 lbf·in). Recommended is Anritsu 01-504.
• 6 mm / 7 mm Open End Wrench. Recommended is Anritsu 01-505.
WR-10 or WR-12 Adapter – 1 mm connector (3744A-EE, 3744A-EW modules)
• Use Waveguide Adapter Toolkits (74394-2, 74394-3 74394-4).
• Tighten using a torque end wrench and a plain end wrench.
• 6 mm Torque End Wrench set to 0.45 N·m (4 lbf·in). Recommended is Anritsu 01-504.
• 6 mm / 7 mm Open End Wrench. Recommended is Anritsu 01-505.
75685-1 a
or
75685-3 b
a. 3743A, 3744A-EE, and 3744A-EW modules use cable assembly 75685-1.
b. 3744A-Rx module uses cable assembly 75685-3.
3
TEST – SSMC Connector (3743A, 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW, and 3744A-Rx modules)
• Tighten using a 4 mm (5/32 in) torque end wrench set to less than 0.17 N·m (1.5 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-529-R torque wrench.
4
REF – SSMC Connector (3743A, 3744A-EE, and 3744A-EW modules)
• Tighten using a 4 mm (5/32 in) torque end wrench set to less than 0.17 N·m (1.5 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-529-R torque wrench.
5Power/Signal Latching Bi-Lobe™ Connector (3743A, 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW, 3744A-Rx)
(Bi-Lobe is a registered trademark of Omnetics Corporation.)
6
LO – K Connector (3743A, 3744A-EE, 3744A-EW, and 3744A-Rx modules)
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
N/A 7 Module Power and I/O Cable Restraint
806-206-R c
or
806-209-R c
c. The 806-2xx-R Coaxial Cable is used only with the 3743A module.
8
SRC – V Connector (3743A module only)
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
75685-1 a9
RF – V Connector (3743A, 3744A-EE, and 3744A-EW modules)
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
N/A 10 Factory Calibrated Port Assignment Label
N/A 11 Module Serial Number Label

VectorStar ME7838A QSG PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E QSG-11
OML/VDI Module Connections
Connect the front panel cables between the 3739B/C Test Set, and the OML or VDI modules as shown in
Figure 5, Figure 6, and Figure 7, and as described in Table 5, Table 6, and Table 7.
Caution To avoid connector damage, observe torque requirements where indicated.
Figure 5 Cable Connections between VNA, 3739B/C Test Set, and OML or VDI Frequency Extension Modules
+27 dBm MAX AVOID STATIC DISCHARGE
ALL PORTS: CAUTION
Standby Operate
Frequency
Power
Sweep
Avg
Response
Display
Scale
Marker
Channel
Trace
Measurement
Calibration
Application
File
System
Help
Preset
Port 1 RF, LO, Test, Ref
To Left OML/VDI
Module
Port 2 RF, LO, Test, Ref
To Right OML/VDI
Module
1
2
34
6
7 9
5
8

QSG-12 PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E VectorStar ME7838A QSG
Table 5 ME78383A Cable Interconnect Part Numbers and Locations
Part Number Index Description
Connection
From
Connection
To
MS464xA VNA 1
3739B/C Test
Set
2
67357-xx
(See Note 1)
3 Semi-Rigid (KM-KM) Cable
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end
wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
VNA RF Test Set RF
67357-xx
(See Note 1)
4 Semi-Rigid (KM-KM) Cable
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end
wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
VNA LO1 Test Set LO1
67357-xx
(See Note 1)
5 Semi-Rigid (KM-KM) Cable
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end
wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
VNA LO2 Test Set LO2
75685-2
6-7,
8-9
OML Module Interface Cables
Group of 4 cables for each port
Tes t Se t
(Port 1, Port 2)
Ref
RF
LO
Tes t
OML Module
(Port 1, Port 2)
Ref IF
RF Input
LO Input
Test I F
75685-2 VDI Module Interface Cables
Group of 4 cables for each port
Tes t Se t
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF
Ref
Tes t
LO
VDI Module
(Port 1, Port 2)
RF Input
Ref. IF
Meas. IF
LO Input
Cable Selection Notes
Note 1
Cable Selection Description
67357-13 Standard (Non-Rack Mount)
67357-67 3739B-001 or 3739C-001 Rack Mount
Option

VectorStar ME7838A QSG PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E QSG-13
Figure 6 VNA/Test Set Cable Connections to OML Modules
Table 6. OML Module Connections
Cable P/N Index Description
N/A 1 OML Module
75685-2
2
Ref IF – SMA Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
3
RF Input – SMA Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
4
LO Input – SMA Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
5
Test IF – SMA Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
N/A 6 OML Module Power Supply
Ref IF RF Input DC Power LO Input Test IF Ref IF RF Input DC Power LO Input Test IF
From ME7838 - 3739B/C
Test Set Port 1
LO
OML Power Supply
TestRef RF
From ME7838 - 3739B/C
Test Set Port 2
LO TestRef RF
OML
Frequency Extension
Modules
(Typical)
1
234
6
5
OML Power Supply

QSG-14 PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E VectorStar ME7838A QSG
Figure 7 VNA/Test Set Cable Connections to VDI Modules
Table 7. VDI Module Connections
Cable P/N Index Description
N/A 1 VDI Module
75685-2
2
RF Input – K (2.92 mm) Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
3
Ref. IF – SMA Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
4
Meas. IF – SMA Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
5
LO Input – K (2.92 mm) Connector
• Tighten using an 8 mm (5/16 in) torque end wrench set to 0.9 N·m (8 lbf·in).
• Recommended is Anritsu 01-201.
N/A 6a
a. The VDI module connectors may differ slightly than on the illustration shown above. For example, depending on the model and
date built, the power supply connector may be round instead of rectangular.
VDI Module Power Supply
Ref. IFRF Input LO InputPower Meas. IF Ref. IFRF Input LO InputPower Meas. IF
From ME7838 - 3739B/C
Test Set Port 1
LO
VDI Power Supply
Test
RefRF
From ME7838 - 3739B/C
Test Set Port 2
VDI
VNA Extender
Modules
(Typical)
LO
VDI Power Supply
Test
RefRF
1
234
6
5

VectorStar ME7838A QSG PN: 10410-00292 Rev. E QSG-15

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490 Jarvis Drive
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USA
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