R&S ZVA80 User manual

R&S®ZVA80
Broadband Measurements Using the
1 mm External Test Sets
Quick Start Guide
Quick Start Guide
(=<Ò8Ì)
1312.6808.62 ─ 02
Test & Measurement

This Quick Start Guide describes the following network analyzer types:
●R&S® ZVA80, stock number 1312.6750.02, complete system based on R&S®ZVA-BU
●R&S® ZVA80, stock number 1312.6750.03, complete system based on R&S®ZVA50
●R&S® ZVA80, stock number 1312.6750.04, modular system
This guide complements the basic Quick Start Guide for all R&S®ZVA network analyzers, stock number
1145.1090.62 and the Quick Start Guide for frequency converters R&S®ZVA-Zxxx, stock number
1307.7039.62. It describes the operation of the R&S®ZVA80 with external test sets.
© 2010 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
Muehldorfstr. 15, 81671 Munich, Germany
Phone: [phone] - 0
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: http://www.rohde-schwarz.com
Printed in Germany – 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 as R&S ZVAxx, R&S®ZVTxx as R&S ZVTxx, R&S®ZVA-BU
as R&S ZVA-BU, R&S®ZVA-ZD80 as R&S ZVA-ZD80, R&S®ZVA-Zxxx as R&S ZVA-Zxxx, R&S®ZV-Zxxx as R&S ZV-Zxxx, R&S®ZV-
WRxx as R&S ZV-WRxx.

Contents
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Contents
1Safety Instructions.................................................................................5
2Preparing the Analyzer for Use.............................................................6
2.1 Operation with External Test Sets...............................................................................6
2.2 R&S ZVA80 Base Unit Connectors..............................................................................7
2.2.1 PORT 1 and PORT 2 Connectors ..................................................................................7
2.2.2 PORT 3 and PORT 4 Connectors...................................................................................8
2.3 Diplexer Connectors.....................................................................................................8
2.3.1 Test Port..........................................................................................................................9
2.3.2 H/L SWITCH Connector................................................................................................10
2.3.3 Rear Panel....................................................................................................................10
2.3.4 Fuse Holder...................................................................................................................11
2.4 Frequency Converter Connectors.............................................................................11
2.4.1 Waveguide Flange........................................................................................................11
2.4.2 Output Power Adjusting Screw.....................................................................................12
2.4.3 Rear Panel....................................................................................................................12
2.4.3.1 Standby Switch.............................................................................................................13
2.4.3.2 Power Supply Connector..............................................................................................13
2.4.3.3 Fuse Holder...................................................................................................................14
2.4.3.4 RF Connectors – Input..................................................................................................14
2.4.3.5 IF Connectors – Output.................................................................................................15
2.5 Putting the Analyzer into Operation..........................................................................15
2.5.1 Unpacking and Checking the Instrument......................................................................15
2.5.2 Positioning the Instrument.............................................................................................16
2.5.3 Adjusting the Feet of the Test Set.................................................................................16
2.5.4 Connecting the Control Cable.......................................................................................17
2.5.5 Connecting RF Cables..................................................................................................17
2.5.6 Connecting the Converter to the DC Supply.................................................................20
2.5.7 Switching on the External Test Set...............................................................................21
2.5.8 Mounting a DUT............................................................................................................21
2.5.9 Replacing Fuses...........................................................................................................21
2.6 Maintenance................................................................................................................21

Contents
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2.7 Storing and Packing...................................................................................................22
3Basic Operation....................................................................................23
3.1 Required Equipment...................................................................................................23
3.2 Measurement Principle...............................................................................................23
3.3 Activating the ZVA80-BU Measurement Mode.........................................................23
3.4 Connecting the External Test Sets............................................................................24
3.5 Calibration...................................................................................................................25
3.6 Measurement...............................................................................................................26
3.7 Troubleshooting..........................................................................................................27
3.8 Special Considerations for Type 03 and 04 Systems..............................................27
3.9 Additional Information................................................................................................28
4Dismounting Frequency Converters..................................................29
4.1 Service Re-Calibration................................................................................................30
Index......................................................................................................31

Safety Instructions
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1 Safety Instructions
This vector network analyzer has been designed and tested in accordance with the EC
Certificate of Conformity and has left the manufacturer’s plant in a condition fully com-
plying with safety standards.
Risk of instrument damage
To prevent instrument damage make sure to read through and observe the following
safety instructions.
ESD protective measures
To protect the network analyzer and the external test sets against damage due to Elec-
trostatic Discharge (ESD) use the wrist strap and grounding cord supplied with the net-
work analyzer and connect yourself to the GND connector at the front panel of the ana-
lyzer. For details refer to the R&S ZVA Quick Start Guide, stock no. 1145.1090.62.
Input powers RF IN and LO IN
The RF input power at the connectors RF IN and LO IN must not exceed the maximum
values quoted in the data sheet. The maximum values are below the maximum RF source
power of the network analyzer. The "ZVA80-BU" mode ensures compatible source pow-
ers.
Before you connect your external test set to the network analyzer, always activate the
"ZVA80-BU" mode using the "Frequency Converter" dialog (see chapter 3.3, "Activating
the ZVA80-BU Measurement Mode", on page 23).
Avoid heavy shocks
Heavy shocks can damage inner parts of the devices. Shock-proof packing should there-
fore be used for storing or dispatching the analyzer and the external test sets.
Opening the instrument
Do not open the frequency converter and diplexer elements of the external test sets.
Repair can only be done at the manufacturer's servicing department.
Using frequency converters separately
The frequency converters may be dismounted from the external test sets and used sep-
arately; see chapter 4, "Dismounting Frequency Converters", on page 29. The wave-
guide flanges of the dismounted converters and of the test port adapters must be pro-
tected against mechanical damage. Furthermore the waveguides must be shielded from
dust.
Protect the waveguide flange of the dismounted converter by leaving a test port adapter
connected. When the converter is not in use attach one of the included protective caps
to the adapter. Avoid scratching the contact surfaces of the waveguide flanges.

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2 Preparing the Analyzer for Use
The R&S ZVA80 vector network analyzer supports two essentially different measurement
modes:
●Measurements with internal test sets cover a frequency range between 10 MHz and
approx. 50 GHz. On an R&S ZVA80 type 02 (stock no. 1312.6750.02), the DUT is
connected to the test port connectors PORT 1 and/or PORT 2 of the R&S ZVA80
base unit (BU). One and two-port measurements can be performed as described in
the R&S ZVA Quick Start Guide, stock number 1145.1090.62, and in the network
analyzer's help system.
The R&S ZVA80 types 03 and 04 (stock numbers 1312.6750.03 and 1312.6750.04)
are based on R&S ZVA50 vector network analyzers. The DUT can be connected to
any of the four test ports of the R&S ZVA50. One to four-port measurements are
supported.
●Measurements with external test sets cover an extended frequency range between
10 MHz and 80 GHz. The DUT is connected to the 1 mm connector(s) at the front of
the diplexers R&S ZVA-ZD80. This measurement mode is described in the present
manual.
This chapter describes the external test sets and their connection to the DUT and to the
R&S ZVA80 vector network analyzer. A typical measurement example is presented in
chapter 3, "Basic Operation", on page 23.
The measurement mode is selected in the "Frequency Converter" tab of the "System
Configuration" dialog: "NONE" for measurements with internal test sets, "ZVA80-BU" for
external test sets. See chapter 3.3, "Activating the ZVA80-BU Measurement Mode",
on page 23.
2.1 Operation with External Test Sets
The external test sets enable a frequency range between 10 MHz and 80 GHz. The
analyzer combines two different measurement methods to achieve this extended range.
●At frequencies below approx. 50 GHz (i.e. in "low frequency" mode), the frequency
converter in the external test set is bypassed. The source signals from test ports
PORT 1 / 2 of the R&S ZVA80 base unit are directly fed to the 1 mm test port con-
nectors of the diplexers. The analyzer measures the a-waves (reference channels)
from REF OUT and the b-waves (measurement channels) from MEAS OUT on the
diplexers. The connector groups PORT 3 / 4 on the R&S ZVA80 base unit and the
RF connectors LO IN, RF IN, REF OUT, MEAS OUT on the rear panel of the con-
verters are not used.
●To achieve frequencies above approx. 50 GHz (i.e. to measure in "high frequency"
mode), the source signals from test ports PORT 1 / 2 of the R&S ZVA80 base unit
are fed to the frequency converters; the converted signals are routed to the 1 mm
test port connectors of the diplexers. The frequency converters use frequency mul-
tipliers to transform the source signal into a high-frequency stimulus signal. An addi-
Operation with External Test Sets

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tional Local Oscillator (LO) signal from PORT 3 / 4 of the analyzer is used for down-
conversion of the reference and measurement channels. The analyzer measures the
a-waves from REF OUT and the b-waves from MEAS OUT on the converters. The
RF connectors REF OUT, MEAS OUT on the rear panel of the diplexers are not used.
The analyzer automatically switches between low frequency and high frequency mode,
depending on the stimulus frequency; see chapter 2.3.2, "H/L SWITCH Connector",
on page 10. There is no need to change the test setup and cabling.
2.2 R&S ZVA80 Base Unit Connectors
The front and rear panel controls and connectors of the R&S ZVA80 BU are described
in the R&S ZVA Quick Start Guide, stock number 1145.1090.62 and in the network ana-
lyzer's help system. The following sections describe special aspects for measurements
with external test sets.
2.2.1 PORT 1 and PORT 2 Connectors
The PORT 1 and PORT 2 connector groups are similar. Each of them consists of a bidir-
ectional, ruggedized 2.4 mm connector and 3 pairs of 1.85 mm (V) connectors for direct
generator and receiver access.
The connectors are used alternatively:
●The 2.4 mm connector serves as a test port connector for one or two-port measure-
ments with internal test set. In this operating mode, the three 1.85 mm connector
pairs are generally not needed, however, they can provide an extended measurement
functionality (see R&S ZVA Quick Start Guide, stock number 1145.1090.62, and the
network analyzer's help system). Unused OUT/IN loops must be closed by means of
jumpers as shown in the figure above.
●The SOURCE OUT connector provides the RF source signal for the external test
set. SOURCE OUT is connected to the rear panel of the diplexer. In the low frequency
range below approx. 50 GHz, REF IN and MEAS IN receive the reference waves and
measured waves from the diplexer, respectively. The 1 mm connector of the diplexer
serves as a test port connector; the 2.4 mm connectors at PORT 1 / 2 are not needed.
See also chapter 2.1, "Operation with External Test Sets", on page 6 and chapter 2.5.5,
"Connecting RF Cables", on page 17.
R&S ZVA80 Base Unit Connectors

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Maximum input levels
The maximum RF input levels at the 2.4 mm connectors and at all 1.85 mm 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 1.85 mm inputs contains no DC offset, as this
may impair the measurements and even cause damage to the instrument.
2.2.2 PORT 3 and PORT 4 Connectors
The PORT 3 and PORT 4 connector groups provide a reduced set of connectors. No
additional ruggedized 2.4 mm test port connector is available.
The connectors are required for measurements in the high frequency range above
approx. 50 GHz only.
●The SOURCE OUT 2.92 mm (K) connector provides the Local Oscillator (LO) signal
for the frequency converter of the external test set.
●The SMA inputs REF IN and MEAS IN receive the measured waves and reference
waves from the converter, respectively.
See also chapter 2.1, "Operation with External Test Sets", on page 6 and chapter 2.5.5,
"Connecting RF Cables", on page 17.
Maximum input levels
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 offset, as this may impair the measurements and even
cause damage to the instrument.
2.3 Diplexer Connectors
The R&S ZVA80 is delivered with two fully assembled external test sets, each consisting
of a diplexer R&S ZVA-ZD80 and a frequency converter R&S ZVA-Z75.
Diplexer Connectors

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Fig. 2-1: Connection between diplexer (right) and frequency converter (left)
The connection of the diplexer and the frequency converter includes conducting lines for
waves and power supply:
●The RF HIGH OUT connector on the top side of the diplexer is connected to RF IN
on the rear panel of the converter using a semi-rigid RF cable.
●The waveguide connector on the top side of the diplexer is connected to the wave-
guide flange of the converter.
●The connection underneath the waveguide flange ensures the power supply of the
diplexer.
An additional metal clamp at the bottom ensures mechanical stability.
Dismounting the frequency converter
The connection shown above is suitable for all operating modes and measurements. Only
dismount the frequency converter from the diplexer if you want to use it separately; see
chapter 4, "Dismounting Frequency Converters", on page 29.
2.3.1 Test Port
1 mm (m) connector, serves as an output for RF stimulus signals and as an input for the
measured RF signals from the DUT (response signals).
●With a single external test set, it is possible to generate a stimulus signal and measure
the response signal in reflection.
●With two external test sets, it is possible to perform full 2-port measurements.
Diplexer Connectors

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Maximum input level, mechanical damage
Do not exceed the maximum input level at the test port according to the data sheet,
especially when using active DUTs or external amplifiers.
To avoid mechanical damage when connecting devices to the 1 mm connector, always
use the torque wrench supplied with the R&S ZVA80.
2.3.2 H/L SWITCH Connector
The H/L SWITCH connectors on the top side of each diplexer are input connectors for
the control signals from the USER CONTROL connector on the rear panel of the R&S
ZVA80 base unit; see chapter 2.5.4, "Connecting the Control Cable", on page 17.
2.3.3 Rear Panel
The rear panel of the diplexer provides input and output connectors for RF signals and a
DC input. Connectors labeled LOW are used in low frequency mode only; see chapter 2.1,
"Operation with External Test Sets", on page 6.
Fig. 2-2: Rear panel of the diplexer
●MEAS OUT LOW is a 1.85 mm (V) female connector which provides the measured
signal (b wave) in low frequency mode.
●RF IN LOW / HIGH is a 1.85 mm (V) female connector which receives the RF source
signal from the R&S ZVA80 base unit. This connector is used in low frequency and
in high frequency mode.
●REF OUT LOW is a 1.85 mm (V) female connector which provides the reference
signal (a wave) in low frequency mode.
●BIAS is a BNC connector which serves as a DC bias input for the external test set.
The BIAS input is protected by an exchangeable fuse; see chapter 2.3.4, "Fuse
Holder", on page 11.
MEAS OUT, RF IN, and REF OUT are connected to the corresponding 1.85 mm con-
nectors of PORT 1 / 2 at the R&S ZVA80 base unit. The complete RF connection of the
external test set is described in chapter 2.5.5, "Connecting RF Cables", on page 17.
Diplexer Connectors

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Maximum input power at RF IN
The RF input power at the RF IN connector must not exceed the maximum value quoted
in the data sheet. The maximum value is below the maximum RF source power of the
network analyzer. The "ZVA80-BU" mode ensures compatible source powers.
Before you connect your external test set to the network analyzer, always activate the
"ZVA80-BU" mode using the "Frequency Converter" dialog (see chapter 3.3, "Activating
the ZVA80-BU Measurement Mode", on page 23).
Maximum input voltage at BIAS and EMI suppression
The maximum nominal input voltage and current for the BIAS connector must not exceed
the value quoted in the data sheet. Use a double-shielded cable and terminate open cable
ends with 50 Ω to ensure successful control of electromagnetic radiation during operation.
The LED labeled ON lights when the diplexer is properly power-supplied. If the LED does
not light, check the following:
●The power connection between the diplexer and the converter must be in place (see
figure 2-1).
●The converter must be power-supplied and switched on.
●The fuse at the converter must be intact.
2.3.4 Fuse Holder
A fuse of type IEC 127-F250L at the front protects the diplexer from excess input current
at the BIAS connector. The frequency converter is protected by a fuse of different type;
see chapter 2.4.3.3, "Fuse Holder", on page 14.
For fuse replacement refer to chapter 2.5.9, "Replacing Fuses", on page 21.
2.4 Frequency Converter Connectors
The R&S ZVA80 is delivered with two fully assembled external test sets, as described in
chapter 2.3, "Diplexer Connectors", on page 8. The open connectors of the converter are
described in the following sections.
2.4.1 Waveguide Flange
For normal operation, the waveguide adapter with the precision waveguide flange moun-
ted on top is connected to the diplexer. If the frequency converter is used separately, a
DUT can be connected to the waveguide flange. Refer to the Quick Start Guide for fre-
Frequency Converter Connectors

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quency converters R&S ZVA-Zxxx, stock no.1307.7039.62, for detailed information and
safety instructions. This Quick Start Guide is posted on the R&S internet.
See also chapter 4, "Dismounting Frequency Converters", on page 29.
Fig. 2-3: Test port adapter of the frequency converter
2.4.2 Output Power Adjusting Screw
The output power of the converter can not be adjusted via the network analyzer. When
the frequency converter mode is activated at the network analyzer, the output power of
the analyzer is set to a fixed value optimized for the selected type of frequency converter.
The screw at the top of the converter allows to adjust the output power of the waveguide
test port. Turning the screw clockwise reduces the output power while turning the screw
counter-clockwise increases the output power. Adjusting the screw to 0 mm results in
minimum power while maximum power is reached at about 2 mm. If you accidentally
unscrew the knob completely, simply screw it on again. If you readjust the screw after
calibration, the power calibration is still valid but the system error correction has to be
repeated.
2.4.3 Rear Panel
The rear panel of the frequency converter provides the connectors and control elements
shown in the following figure.
Frequency Converter Connectors

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Fig. 2-4: Rear view of the frequency converter
The connectors are described in the following sections.
2.4.3.1 Standby Switch
The standby toggle switch connects (ready state) or disconnects (standby state) the
internal modules of the frequency converter from the power supply. This includes the
output connector for the power supply connection to the diplexer (see figure 2-1).
Fig. 2-5: Standby switch and LEDs
A green light-emitting diode (LED) next to the switch indicates that the instrument is in
ready state. An orange LED further to the right indicates that the instrument is in standby
state. These LEDs are only lit when the converter is properly connected to the power
supply and the fuse of the instrument is intact.
2.4.3.2 Power Supply Connector
To supply the frequency converter, connect the external DC power supply provided with
the converter to the 9 V / 0.8 A DC input. For details see chapter 2.5.6, "Connecting the
Converter to the DC Supply", on page 20.
Always switch the instrument to standby state before removing the power supply.
Frequency Converter Connectors

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Risk of instrument damage
The input voltage and current must not exceed the maximum values according to the rear
panel labeling or the data sheet.
Always use the DC power supply included in the delivery to power your frequency con-
verter.
2.4.3.3 Fuse Holder
A fuse of type IEC60127 T1 L/H protects the frequency converter from excess input vol-
tages at the power supply connector. The diplexer is protected by a fuse of different type;
see chapter 2.3.4, "Fuse Holder", on page 11.
For fuse replacement see chapter 2.5.9, "Replacing Fuses", on page 21.
2.4.3.4 RF Connectors – Input
Two 3.5 mm input connectors:
●RF IN receives the RF source signal from the diplexer. A semi-rigid cable connects
RF IN to the RF HIGH OUT connector on the top side of the diplexer.
●LO IN receives the local oscillator signal from the R&S ZVA80 base unit.
Both input connectors are only used in high frequency mode. The complete RF connec-
tion of the external test set is described in chapter 2.5.5, "Connecting RF Cables",
on page 17.
Risk of instrument damage
The RF input power at the connectors RF IN and LO IN must not exceed the maximum
values quoted in the data sheet. The maximum values are below the maximum RF source
power of the network analyzer. The "ZVA80-BU" mode ensures compatible source pow-
ers.
Before you connect your external test set to the network analyzer, always activate the
"ZVA80-BU" mode using the "Frequency Converter" dialog (see chapter 3.3, "Activating
the ZVA80-BU Measurement Mode", on page 23).
Frequency Converter Connectors

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2.4.3.5 IF Connectors – Output
Two SMA output connectors:
●MEAS OUT provides the measured signal (b wave) for the R&S ZVA80 base unit.
●REF OUT provides the reference signal (a wave) for the R&S ZVA80 base unit.
The output connectors are connected to the corresponding SMA connectors of PORT 3 /
4 at the R&S ZVA80 base unit. Both are only used in high frequency mode. The complete
RF connection of the external test set is described in chapter 2.5.5, "Connecting RF
Cables", on page 17.
2.5 Putting the Analyzer into Operation
The basic steps to be taken when setting up the R&S ZVA80 base unit for the first time
are described in the R&S ZVA Quick Start Guide, stock number 1145.1090.62 and in the
network analyzer's help system. This section gives additional information related to oper-
ation with external test sets.
2.5.1 Unpacking and Checking the Instrument
The R&S ZVA80 base unit is shipped in a cardboard box; for unpacking instructions refer
to the R&S ZVA Quick Start Guide, stock number 1145.1090.62. Each of the two external
test sets is shipped in a separate wooden case. The external test sets are fully mounted
and accompanied by the necessary cables and additional equipment.
When you receive the shipment, please take the following steps:
1. Unpack the test sets and the other contents of the wooden case.
2. Check the contents of the cases against the list of accessories to ensure that all items
are included.
3. Remove the protective caps from the 1 mm test ports at the front of the diplexer
elements and carefully inspect the converters and diplexers to make sure that they
were not damaged during shipment.
Should the external test sets be damaged, immediately notify the forwarder who shipped
them to you. External test sets returned to Rohde & Schwarz or sent in for repair must
be packed in the original wooden cases. The cases should also be kept for storing the
test sets and the accessories.
See also chapter 2.7, "Storing and Packing", on page 22 and chapter 4.1, "Service Re-
Calibration", on page 30.
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

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2.5.2 Positioning the Instrument
The R&S ZVA80 is designed for use under laboratory conditions on a bench top. The
surface of the bench top should be flat. The external test sets must be used in horizontal
position.
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 com-
pliance with specifications (see data sheet).
●All ventilation openings must be unobstructed.
Risk of instrument and DUT damage
To avoid damage of electronic components of the DUT and the R&S ZVA80, the operating
site must be protected against electrostatic discharge (ESD).
To prevent ESD damage use the wrist strap and grounding cord supplied with the network
analyzer and connect yourself to the GND connector at the front panel of the analyzer.
For details refer to the R&S ZVA Quick Start Guide.
2.5.3 Adjusting the Feet of the Test Set
The frequency converter can be used with three or four feet attached to the bottom side.
It is recommended to use three feet: two in front and one in the middle of the rear. Two
additional feet support the diplexer.
In most cases the external test set can be aligned as follows: Screw the diplexer feet and
the front feet into the instrument as far as possible and use the rear foot to align the entire
test set parallel to the surface of the bench top. When you connect a DUT in-between
two test sets (see chapter 2.5.8, "Mounting a DUT", on page 21) use the diplexer feet
for further alignment.
Fig. 2-6: Setup with one rear foot (left) and two rear feet (right)
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

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2.5.4 Connecting the Control Cable
Switchover between low frequency and high frequency mode is automatically controlled
from the R&S ZVA80 base unit. If you operate your R&S ZVA80 in high frequency mode,
use the "H/L Switch" cable supplied with the R&S ZVA80 to connect the USER CON-
TROL connector on the rear panel of the base unit to the H/L SWITCH connectors on the
top side of each diplexer. The cable end labeled H/L SWITCH PORT 1 is intended for
the "left" diplexer (connected to the analyzer ports 1 and 3); the cable end labeled H/L
SWITCH PORT 2 is for the "right" diplexer (connected to ports 2 and 4).
The H/L switch mechanism is controlled by the drive port bits no. 1 and 2 (pins no. 16
and 17) of the USER CONTROL connector. For a detailed description of the connector
refer to the help system of your network analyzer.
Low frequency mode
The control cable is not needed in low frequency mode. It is recommended to remove
the control cable if no frequencies above approx. 50 GHz are measured, even if the DUT
is connected to the 1 mm test port connectors of the diplexers.
2.5.5 Connecting RF Cables
The R&S ZVA80 is delivered with two fully assembled external test sets, each consisting
of a diplexer R&S ZVA-ZD80 and a frequency converter WR15 R&S ZVA-Z75. The
"internal" connection between the diplexers and frequency converters is described in
chapter 2.3, "Diplexer Connectors", on page 8. The left test set is intended for PORT 1 /
PORT 3 of the R&S ZVA80 base unit; the right test set for PORT 2 / PORT 4. Connection
of the two test sets is analogous.
Risk of instrument damage
The RF input power at the RF IN and LO IN connectors must not exceed the maximum
value quoted in the data sheet. The maximum value is below the maximum RF source
power of the network analyzer. The "ZVA80-BU" mode ensures compatible source pow-
ers.
Before you connect your external test set to the network analyzer, always activate the
"ZVA80-BU" mode using the "Frequency Converter" dialog (see chapter 3.3, "Activating
the ZVA80-BU Measurement Mode", on page 23).
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

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Connecting cables, risk of damage
A full set of connecting cables including the necessary adapters (for instrument types 03
and 04) is supplied with the R&S ZVA80. It is strictly recommended to use these high-
quality cables for the RF connection. For accurate measurement results, RF cables must
have a low attenuation and excellent phase stability.
Tightening the cable connectors too much may cause damage. Loose connections can
result in inaccurate measurement results. For these reasons always use appropriate tor-
que wrenches, suitable for the different connectors types. A torque wrench for the delicate
1 mm connector is supplied with the R&S ZVA80.
Some of the RF connections are only used while the network analyzer operates in the
low frequency range (below approx. 50 GHz) or in the high frequency range (above
approx. 50 GHz). It is strongly recommended though to establish all RF connections, as
this ensures full flexibility and maximum accuracy .
1. Ensure that the converter is in standby state or disconnected from the power supply
(see chapter 2.4.3.1, "Standby Switch", on page 13).
2. Ensure that the "ZVA80-BU" mode is activated at the network analyzer (see chap-
ter 3, "Basic Operation", on page 23).
3. Connect the RF input and output connectors of the diplexers and the frequency con-
verters as shown below.
The following figure shows the cabling of the left test set.
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

Preparing the Analyzer for Use
R&S®ZVA80
19Quick Start Guide 1312.6808.62 ─ 02
Table 2-1: RF connection for left external test set
R&S ZVA80 BU connector Ext. test set connector Cable Used at frequencies
PORT 1 – SOURCE OUT Diplexer – RF IN R&S ZV-Z196, 1.85 mm (M) – 1.85 mm (M),
0.6 m
LOW / HIGH
PORT 1 – REF IN Diplexer – REF OUT R&S ZV-Z196, 1.85 mm (M) – 1.85 mm (M),
0.6 m
LOW
PORT 1 – MEAS IN Diplexer – MEAS OUT R&S ZV-Z196, 1.85 mm (M) – 1.85 mm (M),
0.6 m
LOW
PORT 3 – SOURCE OUT Converter – LO IN R&S ZV-Z193, 3.5 mm (M) – 3.5 mm (M),
1.5 m
HIGH
PORT 3 – REF IN Converter – REF OUT CABLE EXT MEAS, 1.55 mHIGH
PORT 3 – MEAS IN Converter – MEAS OUT CABLE EXT REF, 1.55 mHIGH
Table 2-2: RF connection for right external test set
R&S ZVA80 BU connector Ext. test set connector Cable Used at frequencies
PORT 2 – SOURCE OUT Diplexer – RF IN R&S ZV-Z196, 1.85 mm (M) – 1.85 mm (M),
0.6 m
LOW / HIGH
PORT 2 – REF IN Diplexer – REF OUT R&S ZV-Z196, 1.85 mm (M) – 1.85 mm (M),
0.6 m
LOW
PORT 2 – MEAS IN Diplexer – MEAS OUT R&S ZV-Z196, 1.85 mm (M) – 1.85 mm (M),
0.6 m
LOW
PORT 4 – SOURCE OUT Converter – LO IN R&S ZV-Z193, 3.5 mm (M) – 3.5 mm (M),
1.5 m
HIGH
PORT 4 – REF IN Converter – REF OUT CABLE EXT MEAS, 1.55 mHIGH
PORT 4 – MEAS IN Converter – MEAS OUT CABLE EXT REF, 1.55 mHIGH
Fig. 2-7: Complete test setup for 2-port transmission measurement
Putting the Analyzer into Operation

Preparing the Analyzer for Use
R&S®ZVA80
20Quick Start Guide 1312.6808.62 ─ 02
Right and left diplexers and converters
A label on the rear panel of the network analyzer shows the two diplexer and converter
units with their position. The label contains the following information.
Fig. 2-8: System component information
Compliance with rated specifications
The "left" external test set (consisting of one diplexer R&S ZVA-ZD80 plus one converter
R&S ZVA-Z75) is connected to the analyzer ports 1 and 3; the "right" external test set to
the analyzer ports 2 and 4. Compliance with the rated specifications requires a system
setup according to the rear panel labeling. Never interchange the left and right diplexer
and converter units, and never interchange diplexers and converters from different R&S
ZVA80 systems.
2.5.6 Connecting the Converter to the DC Supply
An external DC power supply and several plug adapters are provided with each of the
external test sets. Select the appropriate adapter and attach it to the power supply. To
remove a mounted adapter press the small button next to the adapter and push the
adapter away from the button.
Connect the power supply to the 9 V / 0.8 A DC input at the rear panel of the frequency
converter (see chapter 2.4.3.2, " Power Supply Connector", on page 13) and to a power
outlet. The power supply supports input AC voltages between 100 V and 240 V and
frequencies between 47 Hz and 63 Hz.
A lit LED next to the standby switch indicates that the power supply operates appropri-
ately. If neither of the two LEDs is lit, check the fuse of the instrument (see chapter 2.5.9,
"Replacing Fuses", on page 21).
Putting the Analyzer into Operation