Rohde & Schwarz NRT-Z14 User manual

R&S®NRT-Z14/44
Directional Power Sensor
User Manual
1179381502
Version 01
(;ÝV?2)

This document describes the following directional power sensor models (firmware version 03.00 and later)
and accessories:
●R&S®NRT-Z14 (1444.0006K02)
●R&S®NRT-Z44 (1444.0012K02)
●R&S®NRT-Z5 (1400.6909K02)
© 2022 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
Muehldorfstr. 15, 81671 Muenchen, Germany
Phone: [phone] - 0
Email: [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.
1179.3815.02 | Version 01 | R&S®NRT-Z14/44
Throughout this manual, products from Rohde & Schwarz are indicated without the ® symbol, e.g. R&S®NRT-Z14 is indicated as
R&S NRT-Z14.

Contents
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3User Manual 1179.3815.02 ─ 01
Contents
1 Safety and regulatory information........................................................7
1.1 Safety instructions........................................................................................................7
1.2 Labels on the product...................................................................................................8
1.3 Warning messages in the documentation.................................................................. 9
2 Welcome................................................................................................11
2.1 Documentation overview............................................................................................11
2.1.1 Getting started manual.................................................................................................. 11
2.1.2 User manual.................................................................................................................. 11
2.1.3 Tutorials.........................................................................................................................11
2.1.4 Instrument security procedures..................................................................................... 11
2.1.5 Printed safety instructions............................................................................................. 11
2.1.6 Data sheets and brochures........................................................................................... 12
2.1.7 Application notes, application cards, white papers, etc.................................................12
2.2 Key features.................................................................................................................12
3 Getting started......................................................................................15
3.1 Preparing for use........................................................................................................ 15
3.1.1 Unpacking and checking............................................................................................... 15
3.1.2 Choosing the operating site.......................................................................................... 15
3.1.3 Considerations for test setup........................................................................................ 15
3.1.4 Connecting to source and load..................................................................................... 16
3.1.5 Connecting to a computer or base unit......................................................................... 17
3.2 Power sensor tour.......................................................................................................19
3.2.1 RF connectors...............................................................................................................20
3.2.2 Host interface................................................................................................................ 20
3.2.3 Power handling capacity............................................................................................... 20
3.2.4 R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface adapter.............................................................................20
4 Operating concepts............................................................................. 23
4.1 Base unit...................................................................................................................... 23
4.2 R&S Virtual NRT.......................................................................................................... 23
4.3 Remote control............................................................................................................25

Contents
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4.3.1 Remote control using R&S Virtual NRT........................................................................ 26
4.3.2 Remote control using terminal program........................................................................ 26
5 Measurement basics............................................................................31
6 Firmware update.................................................................................. 33
6.1 Hardware and software requirements.......................................................................33
6.2 Updating the firmware................................................................................................ 33
6.3 R&S NRP Toolkit..........................................................................................................34
6.3.1 System requirements.................................................................................................... 35
6.3.2 Installation..................................................................................................................... 35
7 Remote control commands.................................................................37
7.1 Measurement setting commands.............................................................................. 37
7.1.1 BURS............................................................................................................................ 37
7.1.2 CCDF............................................................................................................................ 38
7.1.3 DIR................................................................................................................................ 38
7.1.4 DISP..............................................................................................................................39
7.1.5 FREQ............................................................................................................................ 41
7.1.6 FILT............................................................................................................................... 41
7.1.7 FOR...............................................................................................................................45
7.1.8 MOD..............................................................................................................................49
7.1.9 OFFS.............................................................................................................................50
7.1.10 PEP............................................................................................................................... 51
7.1.11 PORT............................................................................................................................ 51
7.1.12 RESET.......................................................................................................................... 53
7.1.13 REV...............................................................................................................................53
7.1.14 ZERO............................................................................................................................ 55
7.2 Query commands........................................................................................................56
7.2.1 FTRG............................................................................................................................ 56
7.2.2 QSTN............................................................................................................................ 56
7.2.3 RTRG............................................................................................................................ 57
7.2.4 SPEC............................................................................................................................ 57
7.2.5 STAT..............................................................................................................................60
7.3 General commands.....................................................................................................63

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7.4 Selftest......................................................................................................................... 67
8 Remote control basics.........................................................................69
8.1 Device-dependent messages.....................................................................................69
8.1.1 Structure and syntax of device-dependent messages.................................................. 69
8.1.2 Setting commands and queries.....................................................................................69
8.1.3 Device responses..........................................................................................................71
8.2 Hardware functions.....................................................................................................75
8.3 Command processing................................................................................................ 76
8.3.1 Device hardware and data record................................................................................. 77
8.3.2 Output unit.....................................................................................................................77
8.3.3 Cyclic background power and temperature measurements..........................................77
8.4 Status reporting system............................................................................................. 77
8.4.1 Device status.................................................................................................................78
8.4.2 Error status....................................................................................................................78
9 Troubleshooting................................................................................... 83
9.1 Test setup.....................................................................................................................83
9.2 Power-up selftest........................................................................................................ 83
9.3 Selftest......................................................................................................................... 83
9.4 Contacting customer support....................................................................................85
10 Testing the rated specifications......................................................... 87
10.1 Test equipment............................................................................................................87
10.2 Test setup.....................................................................................................................88
10.3 Test sequences............................................................................................................88
10.3.1 Testing the AVG measurement......................................................................................88
10.3.2 Testing the CCDF threshold.......................................................................................... 89
10.3.3 Testing the PEP measurement......................................................................................90
10.3.4 Testing the directivity.....................................................................................................91
10.3.5 Testing the matching..................................................................................................... 92
10.4 Performance test report............................................................................................. 92
11 Transporting......................................................................................... 95
12 Maintenance, storage and disposal................................................... 97
12.1 Checking and setting the baud rate.......................................................................... 97

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12.2 Regular checks............................................................................................................98
12.3 Cleaning....................................................................................................................... 99
12.4 Storage.........................................................................................................................99
12.5 Disposal..................................................................................................................... 100
List of commands.............................................................................. 101
Index....................................................................................................103

Safety and regulatory information
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1 Safety and regulatory information
The product documentation helps you use the product safely and efficiently. Follow the
instructions provided here and in the following chapters.
Intended use
The R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sensor is intended for power and reflection mea-
surements in development and for monitoring and maintenance purposes. The suppor-
ted base units are listed in the data sheet. Observe the operating conditions and per-
formance limits stated in the data sheet.
Target audience
The target audience is developers and technicians. The required skills and experience
in power measurements depend on the used operating concept.
Main applications are continuous monitoring of transmitter systems and power mea-
surements with digital modulation. A profound knowledge of the intended application
and test setup is required.
Where do I find safety information?
Safety information is part of the product documentation. It warns you of potential dan-
gers and gives instructions on how to prevent personal injury or damage caused by
dangerous situations. Safety information is provided as follows:
●In Chapter 1.1, "Safety instructions", on page 7. The same information is provi-
ded in many languages as printed "Safety Instructions". The printed "Safety
Instructions" are delivered with the product.
●Throughout the documentation, safety instructions are provided when you need to
take care during setup or operation.
1.1 Safety instructions
Products from the Rohde & Schwarz group of companies are manufactured according
to the highest technical standards. To use the products safely, follow the instructions
provided here and in the product documentation. Keep the product documentation
nearby and offer it to other users.
Use the product only for its intended use and within its performance limits. Intended
use and limits are described in the product documentation such as the data sheet,
manuals and the printed "Safety Instructions". If you are unsure about the appropriate
use, contact Rohde & Schwarz customer service.
Using the product requires specialists or specially trained personnel. These users also
need sound knowledge of at least one of the languages in which the user interfaces
and the product documentation are available.
Never open the casing of the product. Only service personnel authorized by
Rohde & Schwarz are allowed to repair the product. If any part of the product is dam-
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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aged or broken, stop using the product. Contact Rohde & Schwarz customer service at
http://www.customersupport.rohde-schwarz.com.
Choosing the operating site
Only use the product indoors. The product casing is not waterproof. Water that enters
can electrically connect the casing with live parts, which can lead to electric shock,
serious personal injury or death if you touch the casing. If Rohde & Schwarz provides
accessories designed for your product, e.g. a carrying bag, you can use the product
outdoors.
Unless otherwise specified, you can operate the product up to an altitude of 2000 m
above sea level. The product is suitable for pollution degree 2 environments where
nonconductive contamination can occur. For more information on environmental condi-
tions such as ambient temperature and humidity, see the data sheet.
Connecting directional power sensors
During the measurement, the RF power flow can be high. Connect both RF connectors
tightly to avoid power leakage. Contact with leaking RF power can cause electric shock
and severe skin burns. Take the following measures for your safety:
●Before switching on the RF power of your test setup, make sure that both RF ports
of the power sensor are connected securely as described in the product documen-
tation.
●Do not touch the RF ports when the RF power is switched on.
●Never exceed the permissible continuous power that is shown in the diagram on
the back of the power sensor.
●Before disconnecting one or both RF ports of the power sensor, switch off the RF
power.
Meaning of safety labels
Safety labels on the product warn against potential hazards.
Potential hazard
Read the product documentation to avoid personal injury or product damage.
Electrical hazard
Indicates live parts. Risk of electric shock, fire, personal injury or even death.
1.2 Labels on the product
Labels on the product inform about:
●Personal safety
See "Meaning of safety labels" on page 8.
●Environment safety
See Table 1-1.
Labels on the product

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●Identification of the product
The front label of the power sensor contains the serial number that uniquely identi-
fies the power sensor.
●Power handling capacity
See "Signal input and output levels" on page 16.
Table 1-1: Labels regarding environment safety
Labeling in line with EN 50419 for disposal of electrical and electronic equipment after the prod-
uct has come to the end of its service life.
For more information, see "Disposing electrical and electronic equipment" on page 100.
1.3 Warning messages in the documentation
A warning message points out a risk or danger that you need to be aware of. The sig-
nal word indicates the severity of the safety hazard and how likely it will occur if you do
not follow the safety precautions.
CAUTION
Potentially hazardous situation. Could result in minor or moderate injury if not avoided.
NOTICE
Potential risks of damage. Could result in damage to the supported product or to other
property.
Warning messages in the documentation

Safety and regulatory information
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Warning messages in the documentation

Welcome
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2 Welcome
This chapter provides an overview of the user documentation and an introduction to
the R&S NRT-Zxx power sensor.
2.1 Documentation overview
This section provides an overview of the R&S NRT-Zxx user documentation. Unless
specified otherwise, you find the documents on the R&S NRT-Zxx product page at:
www.rohde-schwarz.com/manual/nrt-z_nap-z
2.1.1 Getting started manual
Introduces the R&S NRT-Zxx and describes how to set up and start working with the
product. Includes basic operations and general information, e.g. safety instructions,
etc. A printed version is delivered with the power sensor.
2.1.2 User manual
Contains the description of all R&S NRT-Zxx functions. It also provides an introduction
to remote control, a complete description of the remote control commands with pro-
gramming examples, and information on maintenance and interfaces. Includes the
contents of the getting started manual.
2.1.3 Tutorials
Tutorials offer guided examples and demonstrations on operating the R&S NRT-Zxx.
They are provided on the product page of the internet.
2.1.4 Instrument security procedures
Deals with security issues when working with the R&S NRT-Zxx in secure areas. It is
available for download on the Internet.
2.1.5 Printed safety instructions
Provides safety information in many languages. The printed document is delivered with
the product.
Documentation overview

Welcome
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2.1.6 Data sheets and brochures
The data sheet contains the technical specifications of the R&S NRT-Zxx. It also lists
the firmware applications and their order numbers, and optional accessories.
The brochure provides an overview of the instrument and deals with the specific char-
acteristics.
www.rohde-schwarz.com/brochure-datasheet/nrt-z_nap-z
2.1.7 Application notes, application cards, white papers, etc.
These documents deal with special applications or background information on particu-
lar topics.
www.rohde-schwarz.com/application/nrt-z_nap-z
2.2 Key features
The R&S NRT-Zxx power sensors support the following measurements:
Average power (RMS value)
Returns the average value of the power for any type of measurement signal — modu-
lated, unmodulated or several carriers.
Peak envelope power (PEP) and crest factor
Both parameters provide information on the peak power of a modulated envelope and
describe the overdrive characteristics of transmitter output stages. The power sensor
outputs the result of the crest factor measurement as the ratio of peak envelope power
(PEP) to average power. In the graphical user interface of the base unit or the
R&S Virtual NRT, the crest factor is displayed as a logarithmic ratio in dB. Measure-
ments are performed using a video bandwidth that is adjustable in several steps, so
that even short-time and high-power peaks can be determined.
Average burst power
Used to measure modulated and unmodulated bursts based on the average power and
the duty cycle. The duty cycle can be defined or determined automatically by the power
sensor.
Complementary cumulative distribution function (CCDF)
Measures the probability of the peak envelope power exceeding a preset threshold so
that the amplitude distribution of signals with an unknown envelope can be determined.
Key features

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13User Manual 1179.3815.02 ─ 01
Voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), reflection coefficient, return loss
These parameters provide information on the matching of the load. The power sensor
derives these parameters from the average power measurement in forward and
reverse direction.
Key features

Welcome
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Key features

Getting started
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3 Getting started
3.1 Preparing for use
Here, you can find basic information about setting up the product for the first time.
3.1.1 Unpacking and checking
1. Unpack the product carefully.
2. Retain the original packing material. Use it when transporting or shipping the prod-
uct later.
3. Using the delivery notes, check the equipment for completeness.
4. Check the equipment for damage.
If the delivery is incomplete or equipment is damaged, contact Rohde & Schwarz.
3.1.2 Choosing the operating site
Specific operating conditions ensure proper operation and avoid damage to the prod-
uct and connected devices. For information on environmental conditions such as ambi-
ent temperature and humidity, see the data sheet.
See also "Choosing the operating site" on page 8.
Electromagnetic compatibility classes
The electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) class indicates where you can operate the
product. The EMC class of the product is given in the data sheet under "General data".
●Class B equipment is suitable for use in:
– Residential environments
– Environments that are directly connected to a low-voltage supply network that
supplies residential buildings
●Class A equipment is intended for use in industrial environments. It can cause
radio disturbances in residential environments due to possible conducted and radi-
ated disturbances. It is therefore not suitable for class B environments.
If class A equipment causes radio disturbances, take appropriate measures to
eliminate them.
3.1.3 Considerations for test setup
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can affect the measurement results.
Preparing for use

Getting started
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16User Manual 1179.3815.02 ─ 01
To suppress electromagnetic radiation during operation:
●Use high-quality shielded cables, for example, double-shielded RF and interface
cables.
●Always terminate open cable ends.
●Ensure that connected external devices comply with EMC regulations.
Signal input and output levels
Information on signal levels is provided in the data sheet. Keep the signal levels within
the specified ranges to avoid damage to the product and connected devices.
Information on power handling capacity is given also on the back of the power sensor.
A derating diagram shows the power handling capacity of the power sensor maximum
forward power versus frequency, under different conditions such as temperature and
VSWR of the load.
3.1.4 Connecting to source and load
The arrow on the power sensor front side shows the forward power flow.
1
234
5
6
Figure 3-1: Connecting to source and load
1 = source
2 = port 1 (RF connector)
3 = R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sensor
4 = port 2 (RF connector)
5 = load
6 = host interface connector
Connect the R&S NRT-Zxx as shown in Figure 3-1 and described in the following step-
by-step instructions to avoid damage to the power sensor and to use all measure-
ments.
If you want to measure an average of forward power below 30 W with high accuracy
and matching measurements are of secondary importance, you can connect the R&S
NRT-Zxx the other way around.
Preparing for use

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To connect to the DUT
1. Connect RF connector (2, port 1) to the source.
a) Insert RF connector (2) straight into the RF connector of the source. Take care
not to tilt the R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sensor.
b) Tighten the RF connector securely by hand.
2. Connect RF connector (4, port 2) to the load.
a) Insert RF connector (4) straight into the RF connector of the load. Take care
not to tilt the R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sensor.
b) Tighten the RF connector tightly by hand.
See "Connecting directional power sensors" on page 8.
To disconnect from the DUT
1. CAUTION! Risk of electric shock and severe skin burns. See "Connecting direc-
tional power sensors" on page 8.
Switch off the RF power before touching the RF connectors.
2. Unscrew the RF connectors by hand.
3.1.5 Connecting to a computer or base unit
For connecting the power sensor to a computer or base unit, use the host interface.
See Chapter 3.2.2, "Host interface", on page 20.
For operating the power sensor, you can choose from various possibilities. For details,
see Chapter 4, "Operating concepts", on page 23.
3.1.5.1 Computer
As a controller, you can use a computer with a Microsoft Windows operating system,
equipped with R&S Virtual NRT or remote control software.
234
5
1
Figure 3-2: Connecting to computer
Preparing for use

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1 = R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sensor
2 = host interface connector → sensor interface
3 = R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface adapter
4 = USB connector → USB port
5 = computer
To connect to a computer
1. Meet the prerequisites of the R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface adapter described in
Chapter 3.2.4, "R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface adapter", on page 20.
2. Connect the host interface connector of the R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sen-
sor, (2) in Figure 3-2, to the sensor interface of the R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface
adapter.
3. Connect the USB connector of the R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface adapter to a USB
port of the computer.
Further information:
●Chapter 4.2, "R&S Virtual NRT", on page 23
●Chapter 4.3, "Remote control", on page 25
3.1.5.2 Base unit
You can operate the R&S NRT-Zxx on an R&S NRT2 or R&S NRX base unit. The
R&S NRX base unit must be equipped with the interface for R&S NRT-Z sensors (R&S
NRX-B9).
2
3
1
Figure 3-3: Connecting to base unit
1 = R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sensor
2 = host interface connector → sensor interface
3 = base unit
To connect to a base unit
► Connect the host interface connector of the R&S NRT‑Zxx directional power sen-
sor, (2) in Figure 3-3, to the sensor interface of the base unit.
The base unit recognizes the power sensor a few seconds after the connection is
made or after power-up and immediately starts to measure.
If the base unit does not recognize the power sensor, check the baud rate setting.
Preparing for use

Getting started
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See Chapter 12.1, "Checking and setting the baud rate", on page 97.
Further information:
●Chapter 4.1, "Base unit", on page 23
●User manual of the base unit
3.1.5.3 Legacy setups
To support legacy setups, you can also connect the power sensor to the following leg-
acy adapters and instruments:
●R&S NRT‑Z3 interface adapter
To connect to a computer with standard RS-232 interface.
●R&S NRT‑Z4 PCMCIA interface adapter
To connect to a computer with a PCMCIA type II slot.
●R&S NRT
Legacy base unit
3.2 Power sensor tour
This chapter provides an overview of the available connectors of the power sensor.
The meanings of the labels on the product are described here and in Chapter 1.2,
"Labels on the product", on page 8.
1
2
3
Figure 3-4: R&S
NRT ‑ Zxx directional power sensor, front side
1 = port 1 (RF connector) → connect to source
2 = port 2 (RF connector) → connect to load
3 = host interface
Power sensor tour

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3.2.1 RF connectors
Always switch off the RF power before touching the RF connectors. See "Connecting
directional power sensors" on page 8.
The RF connectors are used for connecting the power sensor between source and
load. To help connecting the power sensor correctly, the RF connectors are assigned a
number, indicated on the front label, see Figure 3-4.
See Chapter 3.1.4, "Connecting to source and load", on page 16.
3.2.2 Host interface
Used for establishing a connection between the power sensor and a computer or base
unit. The connection is used for:
●Remote control of the power sensor via the serial interface (RS-422).
●Supplying the power sensor with DC power.
See Chapter 3.1.5, "Connecting to a computer or base unit", on page 17.
3.2.3 Power handling capacity
Located on the back of the power sensor, there is a derating diagram that shows the
power handling capacity of the power sensor, forward power in W versus frequency. It
is also dependent on ambient temperature and the VSWR of the load. Further informa-
tion on signal levels is provided in the data sheet. See also "Signal input and output
levels" on page 16.
3.2.4 R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface adapter
This adapter connects the host interface of the R&S NRT‑Z5 USB interface adapter to
the USB port of a computer.
Power sensor tour