R&S ZVA Series User manual

R&S® ZVA
Vector Network Analyzers
Getting Started
Getting Started
1145.1090.62 ─ 13
(;]:èÌ)
Test & Measurement

This Getting Started guide describes the following vector network analyzer types:
●R&S® ZVA8, order no. 1145.1110.08/10 (2 or 4 test ports)
●R&S® ZVA24, order no. 1145.1110.24/26 (2 or 4 test ports, 2 generators)
●R&S® ZVA24, order no. 1145.1110.28 (4 test ports, 4 generators)
●R&S® ZVA40, order no. 1145.1110.40/42 (2.92 mm, 2 or 4 test ports, 2 generators)
●R&S® ZVA40, order no. 1145.1110.48 (2.92 mm, 4 test ports, 4 generators)
●R&S® ZVA40, order no. 1145.1110.43/45 (2.4 mm, 2 or 4 test ports, 2 generators)
●R&S® ZVA50, order no. 1145.1110.50/52 (2 or 4 test ports)
●R&S® ZVA67, order no. 1305.7002.02/04 (2 or 4 test ports)
●R&S® ZVA80, order no. 1312.6750.02/03/04. An additional Getting Started guide 1312.6808.62 is
available for these instruments.
●R&S® ZVA110, order no. 1312.7004.03/04. An additional Getting Started guide 1314.4502.62 is avail-
able for these instruments.
The firmware of the instrument makes use of several valuable open source software packages. For information, see the "Open
Source Acknowledgement" on the user documentation CD-ROM (included in delivery).
Rohde & Schwarz would like to thank the open source community for their valuable contribution to embedded computing.
© 2015 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
Mühldorfstr. 15, 81671 München, Germany
Phone: [phone] - 0
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: www.rohde-schwarz.com
Subject to change – Data without tolerance limits is not binding.
R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.
Trade names are trademarks of the owners.
The following abbreviations are used throughout this guide: R&S® ZVAxx is abbreviated as R&S ZVAxx, R&S® ZVA-xxx as R&S
ZVA-xxx

Contents
R&S® ZVA
3Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
Contents
1 Preparing the Analyzer for Use.............................................................7
1.1 Front Panel Tour........................................................................................................... 7
1.1.1 Display............................................................................................................................ 8
1.1.2 Setup Keys......................................................................................................................9
1.1.3 Navigation Keys............................................................................................................ 10
1.1.4 Data Entry Keys............................................................................................................ 11
1.1.5 Rotary Knob.................................................................................................................. 12
1.1.6 Standby Key..................................................................................................................12
1.1.7 Front Panel Connectors................................................................................................ 12
1.1.8 Additional Hardware Options........................................................................................ 15
1.2 Rear Panel Tour...........................................................................................................15
1.3 Putting the Analyzer into Operation..........................................................................17
1.3.1 Unpacking and Checking the Analyzer......................................................................... 18
1.3.2 Setting up the Analyzer................................................................................................. 18
1.3.3 Bench Top Operation.................................................................................................... 19
1.3.4 Operation in a 19" Rack................................................................................................ 20
1.3.5 EMI Suppression...........................................................................................................20
1.3.6 Connecting the Analyzer to the AC Supply................................................................... 21
1.3.7 Power on and off........................................................................................................... 21
1.3.8 Standby and Ready State............................................................................................. 21
1.3.9 Replacing Fuses........................................................................................................... 22
1.4 Starting the Analyzer and Shutting Down.................................................................22
1.5 Windows Operating System.......................................................................................23
1.6 Connecting External Accessories............................................................................. 24
1.7 Connecting to a LAN...................................................................................................25
1.7.1 Physical LAN Connection..............................................................................................25
1.7.2 TCP/IP Configutation.................................................................................................... 25
1.7.3 Test Setups with two LAN Connections........................................................................ 27
1.8 Remote Desktop Connection..................................................................................... 28
1.9 Firmware Update......................................................................................................... 29
2 Getting Started..................................................................................... 30

Contents
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2.1 Performing a Reflection Measurement..................................................................... 30
2.1.1 Instrument Setup for Reflection Measurements............................................................31
2.1.2 Parameter and Sweep Range Selection....................................................................... 32
2.1.3 Instrument Calibration .................................................................................................. 33
2.1.4 Evaluation of Data ........................................................................................................35
2.1.5 Saving and Printing Data ............................................................................................. 36
2.2 Performing a Transmission Measurement............................................................... 37
2.3 Basic Tasks................................................................................................................. 37
2.3.1 Control via Front Panel Keys........................................................................................ 37
2.3.2 Data Entry..................................................................................................................... 39
2.3.3 Scaling Diagrams.......................................................................................................... 41
3 System Overview................................................................................. 45
3.1 Basic Concepts........................................................................................................... 45
3.1.1 Global Resources..........................................................................................................45
3.1.2 Setups........................................................................................................................... 46
3.1.3 Traces, Channels and Diagram Areas.......................................................................... 46
3.1.4 Data Flow...................................................................................................................... 48
3.2 Screen Elements......................................................................................................... 50
3.2.1 Navigation Tools of the Screen..................................................................................... 50
3.2.2 Display Elements in the Diagram Area......................................................................... 55
3.2.3 Dialogs.......................................................................................................................... 63
3.2.4 Display Formats and Diagram Types............................................................................67
3.3 Measured Quantities...................................................................................................75
3.3.1 S-Parameters................................................................................................................ 76
3.3.2 Impedance Parameters.................................................................................................77
3.4 Calibration................................................................................................................... 87
3.4.1 Calibration Standards and Calibration Kits................................................................... 88
3.4.2 Calibration Types.......................................................................................................... 89
3.4.3 Automatic Calibration.................................................................................................... 90
3.4.4 Power Calibration..........................................................................................................93
3.4.5 Offset Parameters......................................................................................................... 93
3.5 Optional R&S ZVA Extensions...................................................................................94
3.5.1 Time Domain (R&S ZVAB-K2)...................................................................................... 95

Contents
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3.5.2 Arbitrary Generator and Receiver Frequencies (R&S ZVA-K4).................................... 95
3.5.3 Arbitrary Gen. and Rec. Frequencies (R&S ZVA-K4)................................................... 95
3.5.4 Mixer Phase Measurement (R&S ZVA-K5)...................................................................96
3.5.5 True Differential Mode (R&S ZVA-K6).......................................................................... 96
3.5.6 Measurements on Pulsed Signals (R&S ZVA-K7)........................................................ 97
3.5.7 Converter Control (R&S ZVA-K8)................................................................................. 97
3.5.8 Mixer Delay w/o LO Access (R&S ZVA-K9)..................................................................97
3.5.9 Long Distance Mixer Delay (R&S ZVA-K10).................................................................98
3.5.10 Internal Pulse Generators (R&S ZVA-K27)...................................................................98
3.5.11 Noise Figure Measurement (R&S ZVAB-K30).............................................................. 98
3.5.12 Frequency Converting Noise Figure Measurement (R&S ZVA-K31)............................ 98
Glossary: Frequently Used Terms......................................................99
Index....................................................................................................105

Contents
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Preparing the Analyzer for Use
R&S® ZVA
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1 Preparing the Analyzer for Use
This chapter gives an overview of the front panel controls and connectors of the net-
work analyzer and gives all information that is necessary to put the instrument into
operation and connect external devices. Notes on reinstallation of the analyzer soft-
ware appear at the end of the chapter.
Risk of injury and instrument damage
The instrument must be used in an appropriate manner to prevent electric shock, fire,
personal injury, or damage.
●Do not open the instrument casing.
●Read and observe the "Basic Safety Instructions" at the beginning of this manual or
on the documentation CD-ROM, in addition to the safety instructions in the follow-
ing sections. Notice that the data sheet may specify additional operating condi-
tions.
Chapter 2 of this manual provides an introduction to the operation of the analyzer by
means of typical configuration and measurement examples; for a description of the
operating concept and an overview of the instrument’s capabilities refer to chapter 3,
"System Overview", on page 45. For all reference information concerning manual
and remote control of the instrument refer to your analyzer's help system or its printed/
printable version. A more detailed description of the hardware connectors and interfa-
ces is also part of the help system.
1.1 Front Panel Tour
The front panel of the network analyzer consists of the VGA display with the softkey
area (left side), the hardkey area (right side) and the test port area below. Brief explan-
ations on the controls and connectors, the hardkey area and the rear panel can be
found on the next pages.
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Fig. 1-1: R&S ZVA front view
1.1.1 Display
The analyzer is equipped with a color display providing all control elements for the
measurements and the diagram areas for the results.
●Refer to chapter 3.2.1, "Navigation Tools of the Screen", on page 50 to learn how
to use menus, keys and softkeys.
●Refer to chapter 3.2.2, "Display Elements in the Diagram Area", on page 55 to
obtain information about the results in the diagram area.
●Refer to section "Display Menu" in the help system and learn how to customize the
screen.
●Refer to the data sheet for the technical specifications of the display.
Screen saver
The screen saver function of the operating system switches off the display if the ana-
lyzer receives no command for a certain time. It is switched on again if any front panel
key is pressed. Use the Windows control panel to change the screen saver properties
(press the Windows key in the SUPPORT keypad to access the Start menu).
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Short screen flicker
On instruments equipped with an FMR7 front module controller, you may observe a
short screen flicker when accessing the Windows desktop. The flicker does not occur
while the network analyzer is running; it does not impair the functionality of the instru-
ment.
1.1.2 Setup Keys
The keys in the TRACE, CHANNEL, DISPLAY, SYSTEM and SUPPORT keypads call
up groups of related measurement settings. Each key corresponds to a drop-down
menu or menu command of the graphical user interface.
The TRACE keys give access to all trace settings and the functions to select, modify
and store different traces. In addition the menu provides the marker, search and limit
check functions.
●MEAS selects the quantity to be measured and displayed.
●FORMAT defines how the measured data is presented in the graphical display.
●SCALE defines how the current trace is presented in the diagram selected in the
Format submenu.
●TRACE SELECT provides functions to handle traces and diagram areas, and
assign traces to channels.
●LINES defines limits for measured values and activates the limit check.
●TRACE FUNCT(ions) store traces to the memory and perform mathematical opera-
tions on traces.
●MARKER positions markers on a trace, configures their properties and selects the
format of the numerical readout.
●SEARCH uses markers to locate specific points on the trace.
●MARKER FUNCT(ions) define the sweep range, scale the diagram and introduce
an electrical length offset using the active marker.
The CHANNEL keys give access to all channel settings and the functions to activate,
modify and store different channels.
●START CENTER or STOP SPAN define the sweep range, depending on the
sweep type.
●POWER BW AVG defines the power of the internal signal source, sets the step
attenuators and the IF bandwidths, and configures the sweep average.
●SWEEP defines the scope of measurement, including the sweep type, the trigger
conditions and the periodicity of the measurement.
●MODE opens the Port Configuration dialog to define the properties of the physical
and logical (balanced) test ports.
●CHAN SELECT provides functions to handle and activate channels.
●CAL provides all functions that are necessary to perform a system error correction
(calibration).
●OFFSET provides a selection of length offset parameters to shift the measurement
plane.
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The DISPLAY keys give access to all display settings and to the functions to activate,
modify and arrange different diagram areas.
●AREA SELECT provides functions to create and delete diagram areas and select
an area as the active area.
●DISPLAY CONFIG provides functions to arrange traces to diagram areas, arrange
the diagram areas in the active window and configure the screen and the diagram
areas.
The SYSTEM keys give access to the functions to return to a defined instrument state
and select general system settings.
●PRESET performs a general factory preset or user preset.
●SYSTEM CONFIG selects general system settings which do not only apply to a
particular setup.
A second group of keys (uncolored) provides standard Windows™ functions to save,
recall or print setups and call up the measurement wizard.
●SAVE saves an opened setup to a specific file.
●RECALL recalls an existing setup from a file.
●PRINT prints a setup.
The SUPPORT keys give access to the functions to reverse operations, retrieve infor-
mation on the instrument and obtain assistance.
●UNDO reverses the previous operation.
●INFO calls up a table providing information about the current setup.
●HELP calls up the on-line help system.
A second group of keys (uncolored) is used to navigate within the graphical user inter-
face:
●MENU sets the cursor to the first item (File) in the menu bar of the active applica-
tion (network analyzer or help system) if no dialog is open. In the network analyzer
(NWA) application, menus are equivalent to softkeys and provide fast access to all
instrument functions. The menus in the help system are required for accessing all
help functions by means of the front panel keys. In NWA dialogs, the MENU key
opens the control menu to move or close the dialog.
●The Windows key opens the Windows Startup menu from where it is possible to
perform system configurations and call up additional software utilities.
1.1.3 Navigation Keys
The keys in the NAVIGATION keypad are used to navigate within the NWA screen and
the help system, to access and control active elements.
The ⇤ FIELD (= Tab) and ⇥ FIELD (= Shift Tab) keys switch between several active
elements in dialogs and panes, e.g. in order to access:
●All control elements (e.g. buttons, numerical or text input fields, radio buttons,
checkmarks, combo boxes etc.) in a dialog
●All links in a Help topic
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The ↑ (cursor up) and ↓ (cursor down) keys are used to:
●Scroll up and down in lists, e.g. among menu items, in a list of keywords, in the
Help table of contents, or in the Help topic text
●Increase and decrease numeric input values
↑ (↓) become inactive as soon as the beginning (end) of the list is reached. ↑ (↓) is
equivalent to a rotation of the rotary knob to the right (left).
The ← (cursor left) and → (cursor right) keys are used to:
●Move the cursor to the left or right within input fields
●Compress or expand menus or the Help table of contents
●Move the highlighted item in the menu bar of the active application
OK ENTER is used to:
●Activate the selected active control element, e.g. a button in a dialog or a link in the
Help
●Confirm selections and entries made and close dialogs
OK ENTER is equivalent to pressing the rotary knob or the OK ENTER key in the
DATA ENTRY keypad.
The ☑ (= Space) key switches a checkmark control in a dialog on or off.
The CANCEL ESC key is used to:
●Close dialogs without activating the entries made (equivalent to the "Close" button)
●Close the Help
CANCEL ESC is equivalent to the CANCEL ESC key in the DATA ENTRY keypad.
1.1.4 Data Entry Keys
The keys in the DATA ENTRY keypad are used to enter numbers, units, and charac-
ters.
The data entry keys are only enabled while the cursor is placed on a data input field in
a dialog or in the Help navigation pane.
The keys 0 to 9 enter the corresponding numbers.
The function of the "." and "–" keys depends on the data type of the active input field:
●In numeric input fields, the keys enter the decimal point and change the sign of the
entered numeric value. Multiple decimal points are not allowed; pressing "–" for a
second time cancels the effect of the first entry.
●In character input fields, the keys enter a dot and a hyphen, respectively. Both
entries can be repeated as often as desired.
The function of the four unit keys depends on the data type of the active input field; see
chapter 2.3.2, "Data Entry", on page 39.
●In numeric input fields (e.g. in the numeric entry bar), the G/n, M/μ, k/m or x1 keys
multiply the entered value with factors of 10(-)9, 10(-)6, 10(-)3 or 1 and add the appro-
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12Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
priate physical unit. x1 is equivalent to OK ENTER. It confirms the previous entry
and deactivates the input field (closes the numeric entry bar).
●In character input fields, the G/n, M/μ, k/m keys enter the letters G, M, K, respec-
tively. x1 is equivalent to OK ENTER. It confirms the previous entry and deacti-
vates the input field.
The ESC CANCEL and OK ENTER keys are equivalent to the corresponding keys in
the NAVIGATION keypad.
BACK deletes the last character before the cursor position or the selected character
sequence. If an entire numeric value is selected, BACK moves the cursor in front of the
first digit.
1.1.5 Rotary Knob
The rotary knob increases and decreases numerical values, scrolls within lists, acti-
vates controls and confirms entries. Turning or pressing the rotary knob is equivalent to
the action of the ↑ and ↓ keys or the OK ENTER key in the NAVIGATION keypad.
STEP SIZE opens an input box to select the steps (in units of the current physical
parameter) between two consecutive values if the rotary knob is turned to increase or
decrease numeric values. See chapter 3.2.3.3, "Step Size", on page 65.
1.1.6 Standby Key
The standby toggle switch is located in the bottom left corner of the front panel.
The key serves two main purposes:
●Toggle between standby and ready state.
●Shut down the instrument.
1.1.7 Front Panel Connectors
The test ports and various additional connectors are located on the front panel of the
analyzer.
1.1.7.1 Test Ports
N-connectors (or smaller ruggedized connectors for microwave analyzer types), num-
bered 1, 2 ... The test ports serve as outputs for the RF stimulus signal and as inputs
for the measured RF signals from the DUT (response signals).
●With a single test port, it is possible to generate a stimulus signal and measure the
response signal in reflection.
●With 2, 3 or 4 test ports, it is possible to perform full two-port, 3-port or 4-port mea-
surements; see chapter 3.3.1, "S-Parameters", on page 76. Note that for most
R&S ZVA models, ports 2k-1 and 2k share a common generator; only for
R&S ZVA24 with 4 ports and 4 generators (order no. 1145.1110.28), R&S ZVA40
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13Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
with 4 ports and 4 generators (order no. 1145.1110.48) and R&S ZVA67 all test
ports are equipped with independent sources.
●Each test port may be complemented by three pairs of additional connectors used
to test high power devices and extend the dynamic range, see chapter 1.1.7.4,
"Direct Generator and Receiver Access", on page 14.
Maximum input levels
The maximum input levels at all test ports according to the front panel labeling or the
data sheet must not be exceeded.
In addition, the maximum input voltages of the other input connectors at the front and
rear panel must not be exceeded.
The three LEDs above each test port indicate the connector state:
●The amber LED is on while the connector is used as a source port.
●The green LED is on while the connector is used as a bidirectional (source and
receive) port.
●The blue LED is on while the connector is used as a receive port.
It is recommended to use a torque wrench when screwing RF cables on the test port
connectors. Standard IEEE 287 specifies a torque of (1.5 ± 0.2) Nm for N connectors,
(0.9 ± 0.1) Nm for the microwave connector types.
1.1.7.2 USB Connectors
Double Universal Serial Bus connector of type A (master USB), used to connect e.g a
keyboard, mouse or other pointing devices, the Calibration Unit (accessory R&S ZV-
Z5x), a printer or an external storage device (USB stick, CD-ROM drive etc.).
To control external devices (e.g. power meters, generators) via USB connector, a VISA
installation on the network analyzer is required. Use the USB-to-IEC/IEEE Adapter
(option R&S ZVAB-B44) to control devices equipped with a GPIB interface.
The length of passive connecting USB cables should not exceed 1 m. The maximum
current per USB port is 500 mA. See also chapter 1.3.5, "EMI Suppression",
on page 20.
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14Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
R&S ZVAB-B44 on network analyzers with FMR7/6 and FMR9
The driver software of the USB-to-IEC/IEEE Adapter (option R&S ZVAB-B44) must be
installed on the network analyzer. On analyzers equipped with an FMR7/6 or FMR9
front module controller, this installation disables GPIB control from an external PC. A
reinstallation of the NWA firmware (e.g. in repair mode) will resolve the problem; see
chapter 1.9, "Firmware Update", on page 29.
1.1.7.3 Ground Connector
Connector providing the ground of the analyzer's supply voltage.
Electrostatic discharge
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) may cause damage to the electronic components of the
DUT and the analyzer. Use the wrist strap and cord supplied with the instrument to
connect yourself to the GND connector.
1.1.7.4 Direct Generator and Receiver Access
Option R&S ZVA<n>-B16, Direct Generator/Receiver Access, provides 3 pairs of SMA
connectors (or smaller connectors, for microwave analyzers) for each test port. <n>
corresponds to the network analyzer type. For detailed ordering information refer to the
product brochure. See also section "Converter Control" in the help system of your net-
work analyzer.
The connectors give direct access to various RF input and output signals. They can be
used to insert external components (e.g. external signal separating devices, power
amplifiers, a ZVAX extension unit etc.) into the signal path in order to develop custom
measurements, e.g. to test high power devices and extend the dynamic range. If no
external components are connected, each OUT/IN loop should be closed using a
jumper.
●The SOURCE OUT signal comes from the internal RF signal source. The
SOURCE IN signal goes to the test port. A power amplifier can be inserted
between SOURCE OUT and SOURCE IN in order to boost the test port power.
●The REF OUT signal comes from the coupler and provides the reference signal.
The REF IN signal goes to the receiver input for the reference signal.
●The MEAS OUT signal comes from the coupler and provides the received (mea-
sured) signal. The MEAS IN signal goes to the receiver input for the measured sig-
nal.
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15Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
Input signals
The maximum RF input levels at all SMA inputs according to the front panel labeling or
the data sheet must not be exceeded.
In addition, it is important that the signal fed in at the SMA inputs contains no DC off-
set, as this may impair the measurements and even cause damage to the instrument.
1.1.8 Additional Hardware Options
The following hardware options can be mounted on the right of the NAVIGATION and
SUPPORT keypads:
●Option R&S ZVA-B18, Removable Hard Disk, replaces the internal hard disk by a
removable compact flash card. The compact flash card can be inserted at the front
panel of the instrument. To ensure failure-free operation, avoid placing external
cables close to the compact flash card.
●Option R&S ZVA-B8, Converter Control, provides output connectors to control the
output power of a frequency converter with external attenuators, R&S ZVA-ZxxxE.
This option is available for R&S ZVA network analyzers with an upper frequency
limit of 20 GHz or higher (R&S ZVA 24, R&S ZVA40 ...). For information on mea-
surements with external attenuators, refer to the network analyzer's help system
and to the Getting Started guide R&S ZVA-ZxxxE, stock no. 1307.7197.62.
Contact your R&S service representative, if you wish to obtain and install one of the
additional hardware options.
1.2 Rear Panel Tour
This section gives an overview of the rear panel controls and connectors of the net-
work analyzer.
Rear Panel Tour

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16Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
Fig. 1-2: R&S ZVA rear view
The rear connectors are described in detail in the annex "Hardware Interfaces" in the
help system.
●The PORT BIAS panel contains inputs for an external DC voltage (bias) to be
applied to the test ports. A separate input is provided for each test port. Each
PORT BIAS input is protected by an exchangeable fuse.
●IEC Bus is the GPIB bus connector (according to standard IEEE 488 / IEC 625).
●AUX is an auxiliary connector, to be wired as needed. AUX is not fitted on standard
instruments.
●LAN 1 and LAN 2 are two equivalent connectors to connect the analyzer to a Local
Area Network.
●USB is a double Universal Serial Bus connector of type A (master USB), used to
connect a keyboard, mouse or other pointing device.
●DC MEAS comprises two inputs for DC measurements, specified for different volt-
age ranges.
●10 MHz REF serves as an input or output for the 10 MHz reference clock signal.
●MONITOR is a sub-Min-D connector used to connect an external VGA monitor.
●CASCADE is a 8-pin RJ-45 connector used as output and input connectors for
pulse generator signals. The CASCADE connector is located between the MONI-
TOR and the USER CONTROL connectors.
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17Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
●USER CONTROL is a D-sub connector used as an input and output for low-voltage
(3.3 V) TTL control signals.
●EXT. TRIGGER is an input for a low-voltage (3.3 V) TTL external trigger signal.
Input levels, EMC
The maximum input levels and voltages of the input connectors at the front and rear
panel must not be exceeded.
The EXT TRIGGER input connector and pin 2 of the USER CONTROL connector must
never be used simultaneously as inputs for external trigger signals.
Use double shielded cables at the BNC rear panel connectors (10 MHz REF, PORT
BIAS, EXT. TRIGGER) and match signals with 50 Ω in order to comply with EMC
directives!
1.3 Putting the Analyzer into Operation
This section describes the basic steps to be taken when setting up the analyzer for the
first time.
Risk of injury and instrument damage
The instrument must be used in an appropriate manner to prevent electric shock, fire,
personal injury, or damage.
●Do not open the instrument casing.
●Read and observe the "Basic Safety Instructions" at the beginning of this manual or
on the documentation CD-ROM, in addition to the safety instructions in the follow-
ing sections. Notice that the data sheet may specify additional operating condi-
tions.
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

Preparing the Analyzer for Use
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18Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
Risk of instrument damage during operation
An unsuitable operating site or test setup can cause damage to the instrument and to
connected devices. Ensure the following operating conditions before you switch on the
instrument:
●All fan openings are unobstructed and the airflow perforations are unimpeded. The
minimum distance from the wall is 10 cm.
●The instrument is dry and shows no sign of condensation.
●The instrument is positioned as described in the following sections.
●The ambient temperature does not exceed the range specified in the data sheet.
●Signal levels at the input connectors are all within the specified ranges.
●Signal outputs are correctly connected and are not overloaded.
1.3.1 Unpacking and Checking the Analyzer
To remove the instrument from its packaging and check the equipment for complete-
ness proceed as follows:
1. Pull off the polyethylene protection pads from the instrument's rear feet and then
carefully remove the pads from the instrument handles at the front.
2. Pull off the corrugated cardboard cover that protects the rear of the instrument.
3. Carefully unthread the corrugated cardboard cover at the front that protects the
instrument handles and remove it.
4. Check the equipment for completeness using the delivery note and the accessory
lists for the various items.
5. Check the instrument for any damage. If there is damage, immediately contact the
carrier who delivered the instrument.
Retain the original packing material. If the instrument needs to be transported or ship-
ped at a later date, you can use the material to prevent control elements and connec-
tors from being damaged.
1.3.2 Setting up the Analyzer
The network analyzer is designed for use under laboratory conditions, either on a
bench top or in a rack. The general ambient conditions required at the operating site
are as follows:
●The ambient temperature must be in the ranges specified for operation and for
compliance with specifications (see data sheet).
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

Preparing the Analyzer for Use
R&S® ZVA
19Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
●All fan openings including the rear panel perforations must be unobstructed. The
distance to the wall should be at least 10 cm.
Electrostatic discharge
To avoid damage of electronic components of the DUT and the analyzer, the operating
site must be protected against electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD is most likely to
occur when you connect or disconnect a DUT or test fixture to the analyzer's test ports.
To prevent ESD damage use the wrist strap and grounding cord supplied with the
instrument and connect yourself to the GND connector at the front panel.
1.3.3 Bench Top Operation
If the analyzer is operated on a bench top, the surface should be flat. The instrument
can be used in horizontal position, standing on its feet, or with the support feet on the
bottom extended.
Danger of injury
The feet may fold in if they are not folded out completely or if the instrument is shifted.
The feet may break if they are overloaded. Fold the feet completely in or completely
out to ensure stability of the instrument and personal safety. To avoid injuries, never
shift the instrument when its feet are folded out.
The overall load (the instrument's own weight plus that of the instruments stacked on
top of it) on the folded-out feet must not exceed 500 N.
Place the instrument on a stable surface. Secure the instruments stacked on top of it
against slipping (e.g. by locking their feet on the top front frame). When the instrument
is standing on its folded-out feet, do not work under the instrument and do not put any-
thing under it, otherwise injuries or material damage could occur.
The instrument can be used in each of the positions shown here.
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

Preparing the Analyzer for Use
R&S® ZVA
20Getting Started 1145.1090.62 ─ 13
1.3.4 Operation in a 19" Rack
Using the adapter R&S ZZA-611 (order number 1096.3302.00) the instrument can be
mounted in 19" racks according to the mounting instructions supplied with the rack
adapter.
Avoid overheating
●Allow for sufficient air supply in the rack.
●Make sure that there is sufficient space between the ventilation holes and the rack
casing.
1.3.5 EMI Suppression
To suppress generated Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), operate the instrument
only while it is closed, with all shielding covers fitted. Note the EMC classification in the
data sheet.
Use appropriate shielded cables to ensure successful control of electromagnetic radia-
tion during operation, especially for the following connector types:
●BNC rear panel connectors (10 MHz REF, EXT. TRIGGER): Use double shielded
cables and terminate open cable ends with 50 Ω.
●USER CONTROL: Use only well shielded cables or disconnect the input pins of the
USER CONTROL connector in order to avoid spurious input signals which may
cause undesirable events. This is of particular importance for the external trigger
input (pin no. 2) if the EXT TRIGGER input is used.
●USB: Use double-shielded USB cables and ensure that external USB devices com-
ply with EMC regulations.
●GPIB (IEEE/IEC 625): Use a shielded GPIB cable.
●LAN: Use CAT6 or CAT7 cables.
●Test ports: For instruments with 3.5 mm and smaller connector types (2.92 mm, 2.4
mm ...), use double-shielded measurement cables.
The use of external accessories for the network analyzers may introduce additional
connector, cable, and cable length requirements. Refer to the relevant documentation.
Putting the Analyzer into Operation