HP Q METER 4342A Service manual

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4342A Q-meter Operating and Service Manual
04342-90009
March 1983

MET6LoGY
JAN 21 1986
i
434.2A.
.
thERATING AND SERVICE MANUAL
I?!!
HEWLETT
PACKARD

COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER NOTICE
Copyright - Agilent Technologies, Inc. Reproduced with the permission of Agilent
Technologies Inc. Agilent Technologies, Inc. makes no warranty of any kind with regard
to this material including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose. Agilent Technologies, Inc. is not liable for errors
contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the
furnishing, performance, or use of this material or data.

CERTI FI CATI 0 N,
The Hewlett-Packard Company certifies that this instrument was
thoroughly tested and inspected and found to meet its published
specifications when it was shipped from the factory. The Hewlett-
Packard -Company further certifies that its calibration meusure-
ments are traceable to the U.S. National Bureau of Standards to
the extent allowed by the Bureau’s calibration facility.
WARRANTY AND ASSISTANCE
All Hewlett-Packard products are warranted against defects in
materials and workmanship. This warranty applies for one year
from the date of delivery, or, in the case of certain major compo-
nents listed in the operating manual, for the specified period. We
will repair or replace products which prove to be defective during
the warranty period provided they are returned to Hewlett-
Packard. No other warranty is expressed or implied. We are not
liable for consequential damages.
Service contracts or customer assistance agreements are available
for Hewlett-Packard products that require maintenance and re-
pair on-site.
For any assistance, contact your nearest Hewlett-Packard Sales and
Service Office. Addresses are provided at the back of this manual.

OPERATING AND SERVICE MANUAL
MODEL 4342A
Q METER
SERIAL NUMBERES COVERED
Manual Part No. 04342-90009
Microfiche Part No. 04342-90059 Printed: MAR. 1983
This manual cover-es Option 001 instruments as well
as the standard instrument.
aCOPYRIGHT: YOKOGAWA-HEWLETT-PACKARD, LTD., 1970
9-1, TAKAKURA-CHO, HACHIOJI-SHI, TOKYO, JAPAN
This manual applies directly to Model 43428 Q Meter
with serial prefixed 12125. Backdating changes in
SectionVII cover instruments with serials 12125-00590
and below. Instruments with higher serial prefix will
be covered in an Updating Manual Supplement at the
first of the manual.
OPTIONS COVERED
HEWLETT
PACKARD

Table of Contents Model 4342A
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Title Page
I GENERAL INFORMATION ................................... 1-I
l-l. Introduction.. ....................................... l-l
1-3. How the 4342A Measures ............................. l-2
l-8. Instruments Covered by Manual .......................
l-2
1-13. Specifications ....................................... l-3
1-15. Accessories Supplied ................................ 1-3
1-17. Accessories Available ............................... I-3
l-19. Options.. ........................................... l-3
II INSTALLATION ........................................... 2-l
2-l. Introduction ......................................... 2-i
2-3. Initial Inspection ..................................... 2-l
2-4. Mechanical Check .............................. 2-I
2-6. Performance Check ............................. 2-I
2-8. Damage Claim .................................
2-11. Storage and Shipment .................................
i::
2-12. Packaging ..................................... 2-l
2-13. Environment ................................... 2-I
2-14. Power Connection ....................................
2-15. Line Voltage ...................................
i-t
-
2-16.
Power Cable ................................... 2-1
III OPERATION
3-l.
........................................................................................
Introduction
;-;
-
3-3. Panel Controls, Connectors and Indicators ............. 3-l
3-5. Q Measurement General .............................. 3-l
3-8. Go/No-Go Function .................................. 3-l
3-10. Measurement Terminals .............................. 3-5
3-12. How to Connect Unknown .............................. 3-5
3-14. Measurement Parameters and Connection Methods ...... 3-5
3-16. Direct Method Limitations ....................... 3-5
3-18. Expansion of Measurement Ranges ............... 3-6
3-20. Capacitance Measurement ....................... 3-6
3-22. Resistance Measurement ........................ 3-6
3-24. High Q Measurement ........................... 3-7
3-26. Supplemental Equipment Used in Parallel
and Series Methods ......................... 3-7
3-30. Basic Q Meter Measurements ......................... 3-11
3-31. Quality Factor and Inductance
Measurements (Direct Connection) ........... 3-11
3-33. Q Measurement ................................ 3-11
3-35. dQ Measurement ............................... 3-12
3-37. Inductance Measurement ........................ 3-12
3-39. Inductance Measurement (at
a desired frequency). .. 3-13
3-41. Measurement Requiring Corrections ................... 3-13
3-42. Effects of Distributed Capacitance ................ 3-13
3-45. Measuring Distributed Capacitance
(Preferred Method) ......................... 3-14
3-47. Measuring Distributed Capacitance
(Approximate Method, Cd IlOpF) ............ 3-15
3-49. Correction for Q ............................... 3-16
3-55. Parallel and Series Connection Measurement Methods ... 3-1’7
3-56. General ....................................... 3-17
3-60. Additional Error Discussion ................... 3-17
3-64. Parallel Measurements ............................... 3-18
3-65. High Inductance Measurement ....................
3-18
3-67. Low CapacitanceMeasurement (~45OpF) .......... 3-19
3-69. High Resistance Measurement ................... 3-20
3-71. Dielectric Measurement ........................ 3-21

Model 43426 Table of Contents
Section Title Page
3-73. Series Measurements ................................ 3-23
3-74. Low Inductance Measurement .................... 3-23
3-76. High Capacitance Measurement (>450pF) ......... 3-24
3-78. Self-resonant Frequency Measurement
of High Capacitors .......................... 3-24
3-80. Low Resistance Measurement .................... 3-26
IV THEORY OF OPERATION ................................... 4-l
4-l. Introduction.. ....................................... 4-1
4-3. Q Determination and Measurement ..................... 4-l
4-6. Simplified Block Diagram ............................. 4-l
4-8. Block Diagram Description ........................... 4-l
4-10. Oscillator and Impedance Converter (AlAl) ....... 4-l
4-12. RF Power Amplifier (AlA2) ..................... 4-l
4-14. ALC Amplifier (P/O A8) ........................ 4-2
4-16. Q/AQ Range Attenuator (A3) ..................... 4-2
4-18. Tuning Capacitor and Injection Transformer (A2). .. 4-2
4-21. RF Amplifier and Detector (A5) .................. 4-2
4-24. DC Amplifier (A6) .............................. 4-2
4-26. Q Limit Selector (A7) ........................... 4-2
4-28. Circuit Details ...................................... 4-2
4-29. LC Oscillator (P/O AlAl) ....................... 4-2
4-31. Impedance Converter (P/O AlAl) and RF
Power Amplifier (AlA2) .... 4-3
4-33. ACL Amplifier (P/O A8) ........................ 4-3
4-35. Q Range Attenuator (A3) ........................ 4-3
4-37. Impedance Converter, RF Amplifier
and Detector (A5) ...... 4-3
4-39. DC Amplifier (A6) .............................. 4-3
4-41. Q Limit Selector (A7) ........................... 4-3
4-43. Power Supply (P/O ~8) ......................... 4-3
V MAINTENANCE ............................................ 5-l
5-l. Introduction ......................................... 5-l
5-3. Test Equipment Required ............................. 5-l
5-5. Q Accuracy Considerations ........................... 5-l
5-7. Option .............................................. 5-l
5-9. Performance Checks ................................. 5-3
5-11. Frequency Accuracy Check.. .................... 5-3
5-12. QRange Check.. ............................... 5-3
5-13. AQ Range Check ............................... 5-4
5-14. Capacitance Accuracy Check .................... 5-4
5-15. Q Limit Operation Check ........................ 5-5
5-16. Adjustment and Calibration Procedures ................ 5-8
5-18. Power Supply Adjustment ........................ 5-8
5-19. Oscillator Level Adjustment ..................... 5-8
5-20. Oscillator Frequency Adjustment ................. 5-8
5-21. Q Voltmeter Adjustment ........................ 5-9
5-22. Q Analog Output Adjustment ..................... 5-10
5-23. Frequency Response Adjustment ................. 5-11
5-24. Q Limit Selector Adjustment ..................... 5-11
5-25. Option 001 Maintenance Instructions ................... 5-12
5-27. Option 001 Performance Checks .................. 5-12
5-29. Option 001 Calibration and Adjustment Procedures . 5-13
5-31. Dial Re-stringing Instructions ......................... 5-14
5-34. Frequency Dial ................................. 5-14
5-35. L/C Dial ...................................... 5-14
5-36. AC Dial ....................................... 5-14
5-37. Troubleshooting Guides ............................... 5-18
5-39. High Frequency Line Noise ...................... 5-18
5-40. Operating in a Strong Electromagnetic Field ....... 5-18
5-41. Operating in High Humidity Environment .......... 5-18
. .
111

Table of Contents
List of Tables
Model 4342A
Section Title Page
5-42. Elementary Troubleshooting Guide ..................... 5-18
5-43. Meter Zeroing Troubles ........................ 5-18
5-44. Incorrect Q Meter Indication ..................... 5-18
5-45. Low Q Indication in High Frequency
Measurements .......... 5-19
5-46. Faulty Q Limit Operation ....................... 5-19
VI REPLACEABLE PARTS .................................... 6-l
6-l. Introduction.. ....................................... 6-l
6-6. Ordering Information ................................. 6-l
VII MANUAL CHANGES AND OPTIONS .......................... 7-l
7-1. Options ............................................. 7-l
7-3. Special Instruments ................................. 7-l
7-5. Manual Changes ..................................... 7-l
7-7. Later Instruments .............................. 7-l
7-8. Earlier Instruments ............................ 7-l
7-9. Option 001 Instruments ......................... 7-l
VIII CIRCUIT DIAGRAMS ....................................... 8-l
8-l. Introduction ......................................... 8-l
8-4. GeneralNotes ....................................... 8-l
APPENDIX OPTION 001 ........................................ A-l
I Replaceable Parts ................................... A-l
II Manual Changes ..................................... A-l
III Circuit Diagrams .................................... A-2
LIST OF TABLES
Number
l-l.
l-2.
2-l.
3-l.
3-2.
3-3.
3-4.
5-l.
5-2.
5-3.
5-4.
5-5.
5-6.
5-7.
5-8.
5-9.
6-l.
6-2.
7-l.
A-l.
A-2.
Title Page
Specifications .......................................
1-2
Accessories - Typical Values ......................... l-3
AC Line Fuse ....................................... 2-l
Methods of Connecting Unknown ....................... 3-10
16451A (4342A-KOl) Typical Characteristics ............ 3-21
Formulas for Calculating Q and Impedance Parameters
from Parallel and Series Measurements .......... 3-27
Formulas Relating Series and Parallel Components ...... 3-27
Recommended Test Equipment ........................ 5-o
Q Correlation Factors ............................... 5-l
Frequency Accuracy Check
........................... 5-2
QRange Check ...................................... 5-3
Capacitance Accuracy Check .......................... 5-5
Adjustable Components ............................... 5-7
Frequency Adjustment. ............................... 5-8
Frequency Accuracy Check (Option 001) ................
5-12
Frequency Adjustment (Option 001). .................... 5-13
List of Reference Designators and Abbreviations ........ 6-l
Reference Designation Index .......................... 6-3
Backdating Changes .................................. 7-l
Reference Designation Index for Option 001 (Al Al Ass’y). . A-3
Reference Designation Index for Option 001 (A5 Ass’y) ....
A-5
iv

Model 4342A List of Illustrations
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Number Title Page
l-l. Model 4342A Q Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . l-l
3-l.
3-2.
3-3.
3-4.
3-5.
3-6.
3-7.
3-8.
3-9.
3-10.
3-11.
Front Panel Controls ................................ 3-2
Rear Panel Controls and Connectors ................... 3-4
Measurement Terminal Circuit ....................... 3-5
Inductance Measurement Ranges vs. Frequency
(direct method) .........
3-6
Ranges of Measurable Resistance ...................... 3-7
Zeroing Procedure ...................................
3-8
Distributed Capacitance in Direct Connection ........... 3-11
Distributed Capacitance Circuit Model ................. 3-13
Typical Variation of Effective Q and
Inductance with Frequency ....... 3-14
Correction Chart for Distributed Capacitance ........... 3-14
Residual Parameters ................................. 3-17
4-l. Series Resonant Circuit ..............................
4-o
4-2.
Model 43426 Simplified Block Diagram ................. 4-O
4-3. Constant Voltage Injection System .....................
4-2
5-l. Q Range Check ......................................
5-2
5-2. AQ
Range Check .....................................
5-3
5-3. Capacitance Accuracy Check ..........................
5-4
5-4.
Model 4342A Adjustment Locations ....................
5-6
5-5.
Model 4342A Assembly Locations
...................... 5-6
5-6. Voltmeter Adjustment ................................ 5-10
5-7.
Frequency Response Adjustment ...................... 5-11
5-8. Frequency Dial Restringing
........................... 5-15
5-9.
Main C Dial Restringing .............................. 5-16
5-10. AC Dial Restringing .................................. 5-17
5-11.
Tuning Capacitor Disassembly (top view) ............... 5-19
5-12. Troubleshooting, Oscillator Section ................... 5-21
5-13. Troubleshooting, Voltmeter Section ................... 5-19
6-l.
6-2.
6-3.
6-4.
6-5.
6-6.
6-7.
6-8.
Exploded View of Oscillator Ass’y ..................... 6-22
Exploded View of Tuning Capacitor Ass’y .............. 6-24
Exploded View of Q Range Attenuator Ass'y ............. 6-26
Exploded View of Frequency Multiplier, Over Limit
Indicator, and Frequency Scale Indicator .......... 6-27
Exploded View of Main and Vernier Capacitor
Dial Ass’y ...... 6-28
Exploded View of Oscillator Lever Ass’y ............... 6-29
Exploded View of Rear Panel .......................... 6-30
Exploded View of Handle Section ......................
6-32
7-1. A7 04342-7707 ....................................... 7-2
7-2. All 04342-7711 ...................................... 7-2
7-3.
Partial Schematic of Power Supply
.................... 7-5
8-1.
Schematic Diagram Notes . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8-2. Function Overall Block Diagram
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8-3.
Oscillator Ass'y Al, Q Range Attenuator Ass'y A3,
Power Supply & ACL Amplifier Ass’y A8,
Frequency Multiplier & Over Limit Indicator Ass'y AlO.. 8-5

List of Illustrations Model 4342A
Number Title Page
8-4. Tuning Capacitor Ass’y A2, QRange Attenuator Ass’y A3,
Impedance Converter Ass’y A4,
Meter Scale Indicator Ass’y All . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
8-5. Q Range Attenuator Ass’y A3, Impedance Converter, RF
Amplifier &Detector Ass’y A5, DC Amplifier Ass’y A6,
Meter Scale Indicator Ass’y All . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
8-6. Q Limit Selector Ass’y A7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Frequency Multiplier & Over Limit Indicator Ass’y A 10 . . 8-11
8-7. Power Supply & ALC Amplifier Ass’y A8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13
A-l Oscillator Ass’y Al (Option 001) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-7
A-2. Impedance Converter, RF Amplifier & Detector
Ass’y A5 (Option 001) . . . . . A-9

Model 4342A Section I
Paragraphs l-1 and 1-2
SECTION I
GENERAL INFORMATION
l-l. INTRODUCTION.
1-2. The HP Model 4342A Q Meter is designed
to meet the requirements for making easy and
accurate quality factor measurements in the
laboratory, on the production line, or in QA
incoming inspection areas. The direct read-
ing,expanded scale of the 4342.4 permits meas-
urement of Q from 5 to 1000 and the reading
of very small changes in Q resulting from
variation in test parameters. The long fre-
quency dial scale and the pushbutton range
selector continuously cover the frequency
range of 22kHz to 7OPlHz (in seven - l/3 de-
cade steps) and permit setting the frequency
to an accuracy of 1.5% with 1% resolution.
The calibrated long-scale capacitance dials
permit reading the capacitance of the
tuning capacitor at an accuracy of 1% and
provides the capability for varying the
capacitance with O.lpF resolution on the
vernier scale. Inductance of sample can be
read directly from the inductance scale ad-
specific frequencies by setting the frequency
dial to the "L" point on each frequency range.
Flat oscillator output, automatically level-
controlled over the entire frequency ranges,
is a feature of the 4342A. This advantage
obviates the necessity for frequent oscil-
lator level adjustments to maintain the out-
put level constant or the use of a specially
matched fragile thermocouple level meter.
The high reliability of the instrument and
ease of operation are the direct results of
these measurement advancements in the 4342A.
For determing the resistance, reactance, or
quality factor of capacitance and inductance
samples in the high frequency region, the
4342A is a most versatile measuring instru-
ment. The 4342,1 can measure the dissipation
factor and dielectric constant of insulating
materials, coefficient of coupling, mutual
inductance, and the frequency characteristics
of transformers. Accessories which extend
jacent to the capacitance scale at seven the measurement capabilities, designed for
Figure l-l. Model 4342A Q Meter.

Section I
Paragraphs 1-3 to l-12
Model 4342A
user convenience, have broad applications
in testing components and electronic mate-
rials, in physical and chemical research, and
in related scientific fields.
Pushbutton operation of frequency range and
Q/AQ range selection provides for straight-
forward measurement. Automatic indication of
meter scales, frequency dials, and frequency
multipliers are used, adding to the simplicity
and reading speed.
l-3. How The 4342A Measures.
l-4. The Q Meter is basically composed of a
stable, variable oscillator, a tuning circuit
for taking resonance with an unknown sample,
and a high input impedance RF voltmeter con-
nected across the variable capacitor which is
a section of the tuning circuit.
To measure the quality factor of a sample, a
stable oscillator signal is injected into the
series tuning circuit composed of the vari-
able capacitor and the unknown (inductor).
At the tuned frequency, the RF voltmeter
(called Q voltmeter) indicates a peak value
in the signal level increase (resonance) and
is proportional to the quality factor of the
sample measured. By injecting an oscillator
signal with a low output impedance and by
measuring the signal level of the series re-
sonant circuit with a high impedance volt-
meter, the quality factor of the unknown
samnle can be accurately determined at the
resonant frequency. Additionally, various
parameters of the sample can be measured
(directly and indirectly) as factors of the
resonant frequency and the tuning capacity
which can be read from their respective dial
scales.
l-5. For accurate measurements, the 4342A
employs a unique constant voltage injection
system and a low output impedance injection
transformer. The oscillator signal is auto-
matically leveled by an ALC loop to provide
the constant injection voltage required by
the Q range in use. This obviates the need
of an oscillator level control or the fragile
thermocouple level meter (as used in tradi-
tional Q Meters). The unique injection
transformer along with the high quality low
loss tuning capacitor contribute minimal addi-
tional loss to the measurement circuit (reso-
nant circuit) and greatly improve the Q ac-
curacy in high Q measurements.
l-6. High stability of the Q voltmeter vir-
tually eliminates the need for Q-zero adjust-
ments in routine measurements. Troublesome
zero settings prior to each adjustment are
thus eliminated, ensuring simple and rapid op-
eration. Accurate determination of Q changes
l-2
in delta-Q measurements can be obtained in all
Q ranges by using the expanded resolution
(X10) capability.
l-7. The unique Q Limit selector is espe-
cially useful in Go/No-Go checking on the
production line. The high response speed of
the Go/No-Go indicator (compared to using a
meter pointer deflection method) permits
faster Go/No-Go testing. For even easier
testing, external indicating devices may be
remotely controlled by the Go/No-Go output
signal (on the rear panel).
1-8. INSTRUMENTS COVERED BY MANUAL.
l-9. Hewlett-Packard uses a two-section
nine character serial number which is marked
on the serial number plate (Figure 1-2) at-
tached to the instrument rear panel. The
first four digits and the letter are the se-
rial prefix and the last five digits are the
suffix. The letter placed between the two
sections identifies country where instrument
was manufactured. The prefix is the same for
all identical instruments; it changes only
when a change is made to the instrument. The
suffix, however, is assigned sequentially
and is different for each instrument. The
contents of this manual apply to instruments
with the serial number prefix(es) listed
under SERIAL NUMBERS on the title page.
l-10. An instrument manufactured after the
printing of this manual may have a serial
number prefix that is not listed on the title
page. This unlisted serial number prefix in-
dicates that the instrument is different from
those described in this manual. The manual
for this new instrument may be accompanied by
a yellow Manual Changes supplement or have a
different manual part number. This supple-
ment contains "change information" that ex-
plains how to adapt the manual to the newer
instrument.
l-11. In addition to change information, the
supplement may contain information for cor-
recting errors (called Errata) in the manual.
To keep this manual as current and accurate
as possible, Hewlett-Packard recommends that
you periodically request the latest Manual
Changes supplement. The supplement for this
manual is identified with this manual's title
page. Complimentary copies of the supplement
are available from ltewlett-Packard. If the
serial prefix or number of an instrument is
lower than that on title page of this manual,
see Section VII Manual Changes.
1-12. For information concerning a serial
number prefix that is not listed on the title
page or in the Manual Changes supplement,
contact your nearest Hewlett-Packard office.

Model 4342A Section I
Paragraphs l-13 to l-22
1-13. SPECIFICATIONS. 16014A Series Loss Test Adapter:
1-14. Complete specifications of the Model
4342A Q Meter are given in Table l-1. These
specifications are the performance standards
or limits against which the instrument is
tested. The test procedures for testing the
instrument to determine if it meets its spe-
cifications are covered in Section V Mainte-
nance Paragraph 5-9 Performance Checks.
When the 4342A Q Meter is shipped from the
factory, it meets the specifications listed
in Table l-l.
l-15. ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED.
1-16. Fuses (HP Part No. 2110-0339 and 2110-
0044), the Operating and Service Manual, and
a power cord are furnished with the 4342A.
One of four types of power cords (HP Part No.
8120-1703, -0696, -1692 or -1521) is fur-
nished depending on the instrument destin-
ation. All accessories supplied are packed
in the instrument carton.
l-17. ACCESSORIES AVAIALABLE.
l-18. Accessories are specially designed
devices which extend or enhance the measure-
ment capabilities of the 4342A. The follow-
ing accessories are available for use with
the 4342A Q Meter:
16470 Series Supplemental Inductors:
A range of 20 inductors (model num-
bers 16471A to 1649OA), which can be
supplied separately or as a set, are
available for use with the 4342A Q
Meter. These inductors are useful as
reference devices when measuring the
RF characteristics of capacitors, re-
sistors, or insulating materials. For
4342A option 001 instruments, the
Model 16465A Inductor is additionally
available. These inductors have three
terminals including a guard terminal
for stabilization of measurements.
16462A Auxiliary Capacitor:
The 16462A Auxiliary Capacitor is de-
signed to extend the Q and L measure-
ment capabilities of the 4342A. It is
especially useful when measuring small
inductors at low frequencies.
The 16014A Series Loss Test Adapter is
a special terminal adapter designed
for measuring low impedance components,
low-value inductors and resistors, and
also high value capacitors. The
adapter adds convenience in connecting
components in series with the test
circuit of the 4342A Q Meter. It con-
sists of a t rinted-circuit
base on which are mounted binding
posts to accept the supplemental in-
ductors, and a pair of low-inductance
series terminals for the unknown.
16451A Dielectric Test Adapter (4342A-KOl):
The 16451A Dielectric Test Adapter is
a test fixture for measuring the di-
electric constant or dielectric loss
angle (tan 6) of insulating materials.
The 16451A has a pair of precision
variable electrodes (one side is fixed)
which hold the sample and which op-
erate similar to a micrometer to per-
mit direct reading of electrode spac-
ing. This test adapter is directly
attached to 4342A measurement
terminals.
Typical performance, characteristics, and ad-
ditional information regarding these accesso-
ries are given in Table l-2.
1-19. OPTIONS.
l-20. An option is a standard modification
performed in the instrument to meet a special
requirement desired by a user. When an in-
strument model is ordered with an option num-
ber, the corresponding optional parts are
installed in/or packaged with instrument at
the factory. An Option for obtaining a
lower measurement frequency range is avail-
able for installation in the 4342A.
l-21. Option 001.
l-22. The 4342A Option 001 covers a lower
frequency range, 1OkHz to 32MHz, instead of
the standard frequency range of 20kHz to
70MHz. All specifications that apply to Op-
tion 001 instruments are given in Table 1-1.
1-3
PTFE

Section I Model 4342A
Table l-l
Table l-1. Specifications (Sheet 1 of 2).
FREQUENCY CHARACTERISTICS
Measurement Frequency Range:
22kHz to 70MHz in 7 bands (22 to
70kHz, 70 to 220kHz, 220 to 700kHz,
700 to 2200kHz, 2.2 to 7MHz, 7 to
22MHz, and 22 to 70MHz).
Frequency Dial Accuracy:
21.5% at 22kHz to 22MHz,
22% at 22MHz to 70MHz,
-cl% at "L" point on frequency dial.
Frequency Dial Resolution:
Approximately 21%.
Q MEASUREMENT CHARACTERISTICS
Q Range:
5 to 1000 in 4 ranges (5 to 30, 20
to 100, 50 to 300, and 200 to 1000).
Q Tolerance: % of indicated value
(at 25'C)
:
quency 22kHz - 30MHz 30MHz - 70MHz
5 - 300 27% 210%
300 - 600 210% 215%
600 - 1000 215% ?20%
I
Q Resolution:
Upper scale: 1 from 20 to 100,
Lower scale: 0.5 from 5 to 30.
AQ Range:
0 to 100 in 4 ranges, 0 to 3, 0 to
10, 0 to 30, 0 to 100.
AQ Tolerance:
210% of full scale.
AQ Resolution:
Upper scale: 0.1 from 0 to 10,
Lower scale: 0.05 from 0 to 3.
NDUCTANCE MEASUREMENT CHARACTERISTICS
L Range:
0.09nH to 1.2H, direct reading for
seven specific frequencies as marked
at the frequency dial "L" scale point
and selected by the frequency range
switches.
L Accuracy:
?3% after compensation for residual
inductance (approx. 1OnH).
TUNING CAPACITOR CHARACTERISTICS
Capacitance Range:
Main dial capacitor: 25 to 470pF
Vernier dial capacitor: -5 to +5pF
Capacitance Dial Accuracy:
Main dial: *l% or 1pF whichever is
greater.
Vernier dial: +O.lpF.
Capacitance Resolution:
Main dial: 1pF from 25 to 30pF,
2pF from 30 to 200pF,
5pF from 200 to 470pF.
Vernier d ial: O.lpF.
1
l-4

Model 4342A Section I
Table l-1
Table 1-l. Specifications (Sheet 2 of 2).
REAR PANEL OUTPUTS OPTION 001:
Frequency Monitor:
17OmVrms min. into SOR.
Q Analog Output:
1V +-50mV dc at full scale, propor-
tional to meter deflection, output
impedance approx. 1kR.
Over Limit Signal Output:
Single pole relay contact output,
one side grounded, relay contact
capacity 0.5.4/15VA.
Over Limit Display Time:
Switch-selectable, lsec. or
continuous.
GENERAL
Operating Temperature Range:
o"c to 50°C.
Warm-up Time: 30 minutes.
Power: 115 or 230V +lO%,
approx. 25VA.
Weight: Approx. 31 lbs (
Accessories Furnished:
Power Cord
Accessories Available:
16471A through 16490A,
Supplemental
This option covers a frequency range
of 10kHz to 32MHz. Specifications
are identical with those of the
standard model except as noted below.
Oscillator Frequency Range:
1OkHz to 32MHz in 7 bands (10 to
32kHz, 32 to lOOkf-Iz, 100 to 320kHz,
320 to lOOOkHz, 1 to 3.2MHz, 3.2 to
IOMHz, and 10 to 32MHz).
Frequency Accuracy:
i-1.5% at 1OkHz to 1OMllz.
+_2% at 1OMllz to 32MHz.
21% at "L" point on frequency dial.
Q Tolerance: % of indicated value
(at 25'C)
1 5 - 300 1 300 - 600 1 600 - 1000 1
I 27% I ?lO% I ?15% I
DIMENSIONS:
48 - 440Hz,
NOTE : :& (41
DLL(ENSIW IN INCHES AND OALLIYETERSI.
4kd.
and 16465A
Inductors.
16462A Auxiliary Capacitor.
16014A Series Loss Test Adapter.
16451A Dielectric Test Adapter.
Extender Board 15pin
(Part No. 5060-4940).
Extender Board 6pin
(Part No. 5060-0651).
l-5

Section I Model 43426
Table l-2
Table l-2. Accessories - Typical Values.
16471A - 1649OA, 164656 Supplemental Inductors
Approx. resonant frequency
Model Inductance for tuning capacitance of Q Limit Capaci-
tance
400pF lOOpF 50pF (PF)
16471A 130 mH 22 40 62 kHz below 300( 30 kHz)* 8
16472A 52 mH 35 70 100 kHz below 300( 50 kHz)* 8
16473A 25 mH 50 100 140 kHz below 300( 70 kHz)* 8
16474A 10 mH 80 160 220 kHz below 300(100 kHz)* 8
l6475A 5.2mH 110 220 300 kHz below 300(150 kHz)* 8
16476A 2.8mH 150 300 420 kHz below 300(200 kHz)* 8
16477A 1 mH 250 500 700 kHz below 300(300 kHz)* 8
l6478A 520 /JH 350 700 1000 kHz below 300(500 kHz)* 8
16479A 250 PH 500 1000 1400 kHz below 300( lMHz)* 7
16480A 100 IJ.H 800 1600 2200 kHz below 300( lMHz)* 7
16481A 56 PH ** 1 2.2 3.lMHz below 300( lMHz)* 7
16482A 28 FH 1.5 3 4.2MHz below 3OO(l. SMHz)* 7
16483A 10 /JH 2.5 5 7 MHz below 300(2. SMHz)* 6
16484A 5.21~.H 3.5 7 10 MHz below 300( lOMHz)* 6
16485A 2.51~.H 5 10 14 MHz below 300( lSMHz)* 6
l6486A 1 PH 8 16 22 MHz below 300( 20MHz)* 6
lOOpF 35pF
16487A 0.52pH 22MHz 35MHz below 300( 35MHz)* 6
16488A 0.28~~ 30MHz 5OMHz below 300( SOMHz)* 4
16489A 0.1 IJ.H 5OMHz 70MHz below 300( 7OMHz)* 3
16490A 0.07pH 6OMHz 1 OOMHz below 300( 70MHz)* 2
400pF lOOpF 50pF
**16465A 630 mH 10 20 28 kHz below 300( 12 kHz)* 9
* The frequency in parentheses indicates frequency at which maximum Q factor is obtained
(for the respective inductor).
** Approx. resonant frequency for tuning capacitance of 450pF.
*** For 43426 Option 001 only. use
16462A Auxilialy Capacitor
Capacitance Range: 300pF to 2700pF in steps Measurable Capacitance Range: 450pF to 0.225uF
of 300pF. 10 ranges including OFF position. Measurable Resistance Range: 1Om.Q to 80R at
Capacitance Accuracy: +l% on all ranges. lOMHz, 4R to 8kR
at 1OkHz.
Q: 5000 at 20kHz on all ranges. Stray Capacitance Between Unknown Terminals:
approx. 3pF.
Residual inductance: approx. O.luH. Insulation Resistance between Unknown Terminals
Residual capacitahce at OFF position: approx. 1OMR at 1MHz.
approx. 23pF. Residual Inductance: approx. 30nH
16014A Series Loss Test Adapter 16451A Dierectric Test Adapter
Useable Frequency Range: 1OkHz to 10MHz. (refer to Page 3-21 Table 3-2).
l-6

Model 4342A
SECTION II
INSTALLATION
Section II
Paragraphs 2-l to 2-16
2-l. INTRODUCTION
2-2. This sectioncontains informationfor unpacking,
inspection, repacking, storage, and installation of the
Model 4342A.
2-3. INITIAL INSPECTION
2-4. MECHANICAL CHECK
2~5. If damage to the shipping carton is evident, ask
that the carrier’s agent be present when the instrument
is unpacked. Inspect the instrument for mechanical
damage. Also check the cushioning material for signs
of severe stress.
2-6. PERFORMANCE CHECKS
2-7. The electrical performance of the Model4342A
should be verified upon receipt. Performance checks
suitable for incoming inspectionare given in Section
V, Maintenance.
2-8. DAMAGE CLAIMS
2-9. If the instrument is mechanically damaged in
transit, notify the carrier and the nearest Hewlett-
Packard field office immediately. A list of field offices
is on the backof this manual. Retain the shipping car-
ton andpadding material for the carrier’s inspection.
The fieldoffice will arrange for replacement or repair
of your instrument without waiting for claim settle-
ments against the carrier.
2-10. Before shipment this instrument was inspected
and found free of mechanical and electrical defects.
If there is any deficiency, or if electrical performance
is not within specifications, notify your nearest
Hewlett-Packard Sales and Service Office.
2-11. STORAGE AND SHIPMENT
2-12. PACKAGING. To protect valuable electronic
equipment during storage or shipment always use the
best packaging methods available, Your Hewlett-
Packard field office can provide packing material such
as that used,for original factory packaging. Contract
packaging companies in many cities can provide de-
pendable custom packaging on short notice. Here are
a few recommended packaging methods :
a. RUBBERIZED HAIR. Cover painted surfaces
of instrument with protective wrapping paper.
Pack instrument securely in strong corrugated
container (350 lb/sq in. bursting test) with 2-
inch rubberized hair pads placed along all sur-
faces of the instrument. Insert fillers between
pads and container to ensure a snug fit.
b. EXCELSIOR. Cover painted surfaces of instru-
ment with protective wrapping paper. Pack in-
strument in strong corrugated container (350 lb/
sq in. bursting test) with a layer of excelsior
about 6 inches thick packed firmly against all
surfaces of the instrument.
2-13. ENVIRONMENT. Conditions during storage
and shipment should normally be limited as follows:
a. Maximum altitude, 20,000 feet
b. Minimum temperature, -40” F (-40” C)
C. Maximum temperature, 167” F (75°C)
2-14.
2-15.
from
POWER CONNECTION
LINE VOLTAGE. The Model 4342Aoperates
either 115 or 230 volt (*lo%) ac line voltage
and Line frequency from 50 to 400Hz. A slide
switch on the rear panel permits quick conversion for
operating from either voltage. Insert a narrow- blade
screwdriver in the switch slot and slide the switch to
the right for 115-volt operation (“115” marking ex-
posed) or to the left for 230-voltoperation (“230” mar-
king exposed). The Model 4342A is supplied with 115-
volt fuse; for 230-volt operation, be sure to replace
this fuse with that listed in Table 2-I.
Table 2-l. AC Line Fuse
Conversion 115-volt
Slide Switch Right
(“115’)
AC Line Fuse 0.6 amperes
Slow-Blow
2110-0339
CAUTION
230-volt
Left
(“230”)
0.3 amperes
Slow-Blow
21 lo-0044
To avoiddamage to theinstrument, before
connecting the power cable, set the 115/
230-volt switch for the line voltage to be
used.
2-16. POWER CABLE, To protect operating per-
sonnel, the National Electrical Manufacturers Associ-
ation (NEMA) recommends that instrument panels and
cabinets be grounded. Accordingly, the Model 4342A
is equipped with a detachable three.-conductor power
cable which, when plugged into an appropriate recepta-
cle, grounds panel and cabinet. The offset pin of the
three-prong connector is the ground pin. Proceed as
follows for power cable installation.
a. Connect flatplug (3-terminal connector) to LINE
jack at rear of instrument.
b. Connect plug (a-blade with round grounding pin)
to J-wire (grounded) power outlet. Exposed
2-l

Section II
portions of instrument are grounded through the
round pin on the plug for safety; when only 2-
blade outlet is available, use connector adapter
(HP Part No. 1251-0048). Then connect short
wire from slide of adapter to groundto preserve
the protection feature.
Model 4342A
2-2

Model 4342A
SECTION III
OPERATION
Section III
Paragraphs 3-1 to 3-9
3-1. INTRODUCTION.
3-2. The 4342A Q Meter can measure the
quality factor of inductors from 5 to 1000
and, in addition, capacitance, inductance and
resistance, and the dielectric constant of
insulating materials over the frequency range
of 22kHz to 70MHz. This section provides the
instructions and information necessary for
operating the 4342A Q Meter.
Fundamental operating procedures and general
techniques for measuring various parameter
values of the unknown directly and indirectly
by using accessories appropriate to the
characteristics of the unknown are also
outlined in this section.
3-3. PANEL CONTROLS, CONNECTORS AND
INDICATORS.
3-4. Control panel, top terminal deck, and
rear panel features of the 4342A are des-
cribed in Figures 3-1 and 3-2. The numbers
in the illustrations are keyed to the des-
criptive items for each figure. Other de-
tailed information about the functions of the
panel controls and connectors is provided in
paragraphs 3-8 through 3-11.
3-5. Q MEASUREMENT-GENERAL.
3-6. To complete the measuring circuit, the
Model 4342A requires the connection of an in-
ductor to the measurement COIL terminals.
This circuit is then used to establish a
resonance, either by setting the frequency
controls to a predetermined frequency and
varying the tuning capacitor, or by preset-
ting the tuning capacitor to a desired value
and adjusting the frequency controls. Reso-
nance is indicated by maximum deflection of
the panel Q meter. The Q value of the sample
is proportional to Q meter deflection at the
resonant frequency.
3-7. The "indicated Q" which is the Q meter
reading at resonance is called the "circuit
Q" because it includes all the additive
losses inherent in the instrument including
those in the tuning capacitor, the Q volt-
meter input resistance, output resistance of
the oscillator signal injection circuit, and
contact resistances of the measurement termi-
nals. To avoid ambiguity, the Q meter read-
ing or "circuit Q" is called "indicated Q"
throughout the balance of this manual. The
"effective Q", which is dependent only on the
inherent loss of the sample and can be meas-
ured only by an ideal measuring circuit, is
somewhat greater than the "indicated Q".
However, the "indicated Q" can approximate
the "effective Q", by reducing instrument
losses as much as is possible. So, in most
instances, these Q values can be deemed to be
the same. The 4342A employs a Constant Volt-
age Injection System obviating the use of a
thermocouple level meter (the resistance of
thermocouple device would contribute addi-
tional losses to the measuring circuit) and
the coupling resistor used in traditional Q
meters. The low output impedance of the in-
jection transformer, the improved operating
performance of the Q voltmeter, and the pre-
cision tuning capacitor which has extremely
low loss over a wide frequency range minimize
the difference between the "indicated Q" and
"effective Q".
3-8. GO/NO-GO FUNCTION.
3-9. The 4342.4 Go/No-Go function provides
an annunciation when the measured Q value ex-
ceeds a reference value. Two annunciation
outputs, the OVER LIVIT lamp display and a
relay contact output (rear panel) are avail-
able. The OVER LIMIT indicator lamp lights
and the relay is energized when the measured
Q value is over the reference value set by
the front panel Q LIMIT control. Annuncia-
tion time can be selected to occur at either
1 second intervals or to be continuous by the
rear panel OVER LIMIT DISPLAY TIME switch,
When the switch is set to its 1 set position
and the Q meter indication goes over the pre-
set Q limit control value, the OVER LIMIT
lamp lights once for 1 second. In the con-
tinous mode, the lamp stays continuously lit
during the entire time that the Q value meter
deflection exceeds the preset value. Relay
contact output follows in the same manner.
3-l

Section III
Figure 3-l
Model 4342A
1. LINE PUSH ON/OFF Switch:
power on/off switch.
Instrument 3. FREQUENCY Dial Control: This dial
wheel varies the measurement frequency
as well as the FREQUENCY dial scale@.
2. FREQUENCY RANGE Selector: These push- The frequency is read from FREQHENCY
buttons select the desired measurement scale @and the multiplier indicator
frequency range from among the seven 0
ranges covering 22kHz to 7OMllz (10kHz
to 32MHz for Option 001). The induct-
ance range which may be measured 4. Q LIMIT Control: This dial control
directly at the "L" scale frequency sets the low limit of the Q value for
point on the selected frequency range Go/No-Go checks. The Q LIMIT setting
is labeled on the panel adjacent to dial scale numbers are related to
the pushbuttons. meter deflection (% of full scale).
Figure 3-l. Front Panel Controls (Sheet 1 of 2).
3-2