Rohde & Schwarz RT-ZZ80 User manual

R&S®RT-ZZ80
Transmission Line Probe
User Manual
1409768902
Version 03
(>9Úç2)

This user manual describes the following R&S®RT-ZZ models:
●R&S®RT-ZZ80 (1409.7608.02)
© 2023 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.
All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.
1409.7689.02 | Version 03 | R&S®RT-ZZ80
Throughout this manual, products from Rohde & Schwarz are indicated without the ® symbol and without
product type numbers, e.g. R&S®RT-ZZ80 is indicated as R&S RT-ZZ80.

Contents
R&S®RT-ZZ80
3User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
Contents
1 Safety and regulatory information....................................... 5
1.1 Safety instructions................................................................................5
1.2 Labels on the product.......................................................................... 7
1.3 Warning messages in the documentation.......................................... 8
2 Product description...............................................................9
2.1 Key features and key characteristics..................................................9
2.2 Unpacking and checking....................................................................10
2.3 Description of the probe.....................................................................11
2.3.1 Probe head............................................................................................11
2.3.2 SMA connector and SMA to BNC adapter............................................12
2.4 Accessories and items....................................................................... 13
2.4.1 Accessories supplied............................................................................ 13
2.4.2 Optional accessories.............................................................................15
2.4.3 Service accessories.............................................................................. 15
3 Connecting the probe..........................................................16
3.1 Handling the probe............................................................................. 16
3.2 Connecting the probe to the oscilloscope....................................... 16
3.3 Zero adjustment.................................................................................. 17
3.4 Connecting the probe to the DUT......................................................18
4 Measurement principles......................................................22
4.1 Signal integrity of the transferred signal..........................................24
4.1.1 Bandwidth............................................................................................. 24
4.1.2 Performance with different connection types........................................ 26
4.2 Signal loading of the input signal..................................................... 28

Contents
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4.2.1 Transmission line probes...................................................................... 28
4.2.2 Input impedance................................................................................... 29
4.3 Attenuation dependence on source impedance.............................. 31
5 Maintenance and service.................................................... 33
5.1 Cleaning...............................................................................................33
5.2 Contacting customer support............................................................33
5.3 Returning for servicing...................................................................... 34
5.4 Calibration interval............................................................................. 34
5.5 Storage and transport........................................................................ 35
5.6 Disposal............................................................................................... 35
5.7 Spare parts.......................................................................................... 35

Safety and regulatory information
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5User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
1 Safety and regulatory information
The product documentation helps you to use the product safely and efficiently.
Follow the instructions provided here and throughout the manual.
Intended use
The product is intended for the development, production and verification of elec-
tronic components and devices in industrial, administrative, and laboratory envi-
ronments. Use the product only for its designated purpose. Observe the operating
conditions and performance limits stated in the data sheet.
The R&S RT-ZZ80 transmission line probe is designed for measurements on cir-
cuits that are only indirectly connected to the mains or not connected at all. It is
not rated for any measurement category.
Where do I find safety information?
Safety information is part of the product documentation. It warns you of potential
dangers 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 5. The same information is
provided 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 prod-
uct documentation nearby and offer it to other users.
Use the product only for its intended use and within its performance limits. Inten-
ded use and limits are described in the product documentation such as the data
sheet, manuals and the printed "Safety Instructions for Oscilloscopes and Acces-
sories" document. If you are unsure about the appropriate use, contact
Rohde & Schwarz customer service.
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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6User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
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.
Reconfigure or adjust the product only as described in the product documentation
or the data sheet. Any other modifications can affect safety and are not permitted.
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
damaged or broken, stop using the product. Contact Rohde & Schwarz customer
service at https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/support.
In these safety instructions, the term "product" covers instruments (oscillo-
scopes), probes and their accessories.
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 elec-
tric shock, serious personal injury or death if you touch the casing. If
Rohde & Schwarz provides accessories designed for outdoor use of your product,
e.g. a protective cover, you can use the product outdoors.
Unless otherwise specified in the data sheet, 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 conditions such
as ambient temperature and humidity, see the data sheet.
Performing measurements
Take the following measures for your safety:
●To ascertain voltage-free state, use an appropriate voltage tester. Any mea-
surement setup including an oscilloscope is not suitable for this purpose.
●The maximum input voltage on channel inputs and the external trigger input
must not exceed the value specified in the data sheet.
●Observe all voltage and current ratings of the instrument, the probes, and the
accessories. Exceeding the allowed voltages can lead to an electric shock.
Limits and ratings are marked on the products and listed in the data sheets.
Consider that the rated voltage depends on the frequency. The voltage limita-
tion curves or values are provided in the data sheet.
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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7User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
●Never cause any short circuits when measuring sources with high output cur-
rents.
●Use only probes and accessories that comply with the measurement category
(CAT) of your measurement task. If the product is rated for any measurement
category, the permitted category is indicated on the product and in the data
sheet. If you use other than Rohde & Schwarz accessories, make sure that
they are suitable for the instrument and the measurement task.
●Set the correct attenuation factor on the instrument according to the probe
being used. Otherwise, the measurement results do not reflect the actual volt-
age level, and you might misjudge the actual risk.
●The probe pins are extremely pointed and can easily penetrate clothes and
the skin. Handle the probe pins with great care. To exchange a probe pin, use
tweezers or pliers to avoid injuries. When transporting the accessories, always
use the box supplied with the probe.
●Prevent the probe from receiving mechanical shock. Avoid putting excessive
strain on the probe cable or exposing it to sharp bends. Touching a broken
cable during measurements can cause injuries.
●Set up all probe connections to the instrument before applying power.
1.2 Labels on the product
Labels on the casing inform about:
●Personal safety
●Product and environment safety
●Identification of the product
Table 1-1: Meaning of safety labels
Potential hazard
Read the product documentation to avoid personal injury or product damage.
Labels on the product

Safety and regulatory information
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8User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
1.3 Warning messages in the documentation
A warning message points out a risk or danger that you need to be aware of. The
signal word indicates the severity of the safety hazard and how likely it will occur
if you do not follow the safety precautions.
WARNING
Potentially hazardous situation. Could result in death or serious injury if not avoi-
ded.
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

Product description
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9User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
2 Product description
2.1 Key features and key characteristics
Transmission line probes like R&S RT-ZZ80 are a special type of passive probes.
They are based on an impedance-controlled microwave cable (transmission line),
which is terminated into a 50 Ω input impedance of the measuring instrument.
Compared to standard passive probes, the main differences of transmission line
probes are:
●Higher bandwidth
●Higher input impedance at high frequencies
●Lower input impedance at DC
Transmission line probes are best suited for measurements of broadband single-
ended signals in impedance-controlled environments, for example, 50 Ω lines.
The R&S RT-ZZ80 has a wide dynamic range. High input levels up to 20 V (RMS)
can be measured without distortion. The low inherent noise enables the measure-
ment of small input signals.
The comprehensive accessory set allows connection to a wide variety of devices
under test (DUT) without impairing the very high bandwidth, short rise time and
the low input capacitance of the R&S RT-ZZ80.
The R&S RT-ZZ80 has a standard SMA connector. For BNC input terminals, the
BNC to SMA adapter R&S RT-ZA10 is delivered with the probe. Thus the probe
can be connected to any Rohde & Schwarz oscilloscope and to most other high-
frequency measuring instruments.
The key characteristics of the probe are the following:
Bandwidth DC to 8 GHz
Maximum input voltage 20 V (RMS)
Input resistance 500 Ω
Input capacitance 0.3 pF
Full dynamic range over the entire frequency range
No harmonic distortions
Key features and key characteristics

Product description
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10User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
Negligible noise contribution
Standard SMA connector
2.2 Unpacking and checking
1. Unpack the product carefully.
2. Retain the original packing material. Use it when transporting or shipping the
product 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.
Delivery notes
The delivery contains the following items:
●R&S RT-ZZ80 transmission line probe
●Carrying case
●Accessory boxes
●User manual
●Data sheet
●Calibration certificate
●Documentation of calibration values (if
ordered)
●Safety instructions for oscilloscopes and
accessories (multilingual)
Accessories supplied with the probe are listed in Chapter 2.4.1, "Accessories
supplied", on page 13.
Unpacking and checking

Product description
R&S®RT-ZZ80
11User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
2.3 Description of the probe
The probe consists of the probe head for connection to the DUT, the probe cable,
and the SMA connector.
Probe connection:
●To a base unit with SMA inputs: direct connection
●To a base unit with BNC connectors: using the SMA to BNC adapter delivered
with the probe
2.3.1 Probe head
The small and lightweight probe head is designed for easy handling and high-per-
formance measurements. The probe head is used for connecting the probe and
the DUT. Different accessories for the signal and ground sockets allow the probe
head to be connected to a wide range of DUTs.
The signal socket of the R&S RT-ZZ80 has a special design to ensure optimal
performance. The signal socket is not compatible to standard accessories based
on 0.64 mm (25 mil) square pins or 0.8 mm (35 mil) round pins. Use only special
accessories for R&S RT-ZZ80 provided by Rohde & Schwarz.
Description of the probe

Product description
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12User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
1
2
(1) Signal socket
(2) Ground socket
The accessories supplied for the probe head
sockets are listed in Chapter 2.4.1, "Accesso-
ries supplied", on page 13.
The ground socket is compatible with 0.64 mm
(25 mil) square pins and 0.6 mm to 0.8 mm
(24 mil to 35 mil) round pins.
2.3.2 SMA connector and SMA to BNC adapter
The R&S RT-ZZ80 has an SMA male connector for connection to the instrument.
To connect the probe to a Rohde & Schwarz oscilloscope, you need the SMA to
BNC adapter that is delivered with the probe. Screw the SMA connector on the
SMA to BNC adapter as shown below.
► Use a torque wrench to tighten the SMA connector.
1
2
(1) SMA connector
(2) SMA to BNC adapter
Description of the probe

Product description
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13User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
2.4 Accessories and items
The figure below shows all accessories that are available for the R&S RT-ZZ80
transmission line probe.
SMA-BNC adapter
lead,
15 cm / 5.9 in
ground adapter,
square pin
ground pin, pogo
ground pin, solder in
signal adapter, square pin
signal pin
signal pin, solder in
lead
6 cm / 2.4 in
micro clip
mini clip
marker band kit
Figure 2-1: Available accessories
Leads, mini clip and micro clip are not included in the delivery.
2.4.1 Accessories supplied
The following table shows the accessories supplied with the R&S RT-ZZ80 trans-
mission line probe.
Accessories and items

Product description
R&S®RT-ZZ80
14User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
Table 2-1: Accessories supplied
Item Quantity Description
50 Signal pin, solder in
2 Signal pin
2 Signal adapter, square pin
10 Ground pin, solder in
2 Ground pin, pogo
2 Ground adapter, square pin
1R&S RT-ZA10
SMA (female) to BNC (male) adapter
Accessories and items

Product description
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15User Manual 1409.7689.02 ─ 03
Item Quantity Description
1 Marker band kit
1 Carrying case with foam inlay
2.4.2 Optional accessories
If the delivered accessories do not meet individual customer requirements,
Rohde & Schwarz offers different accessory sets for sale. The order numbers are
provided in the data sheet.
Table 2-2: Optional clips and leads
Accessories Items Quantity
R&S RT‑ZA4 mini clips Mini clip 10
R&S RT‑ZA5 micro clips Micro clip 4
R&S RT‑ZA6 lead set Lead, 6 cm / 2.4 in
Lead, 15 cm / 5.9 in
5
5
2.4.3 Service accessories
To order accessories for servicing the probe, contact your Rohde & Schwarz ser-
vice center. The following accessories are available:
Table 2-3: Service accessories
Item Description
R&S RT-ZK2 The service kit is used to calibrate the probe, to do perfor-
mance tests, and for servicing. The service kit includes all
adapters and accessories to connect the probe to the
required measuring instruments.
R&S RT-ZZ80 Service Manual The service manual contains a detailed description of the
performance test to verify the specifications, and other
important service procedures.
Accessories and items

Connecting the probe
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3 Connecting the probe
3.1 Handling the probe
The R&S RT-ZZ80 can withstand a moderate amount of physical and electrical
stress. To avoid damage, treat the probe with care:
●Handle the probe by the probe head.
●Prevent the probe from receiving mechanical shock.
●Avoid strain on the probe cable and route it carefully.
●Do not spill liquids on the probe.
Preventing electrostatic discharge (ESD)
Electrostatic discharge is most likely to occur when you connect or disconnect a
DUT.
►NOTICE! Electrostatic discharge can damage the electronic components of
the product and the device under test (DUT).
Ground yourself to prevent electrostatic discharge damage:
a) Use a wrist strap and cord to connect yourself to ground.
b) Use a conductive floor mat and heel strap combination.
Discharge cables and probe clips before you connect them.
3.2 Connecting the probe to the oscilloscope
Supported Rohde & Schwarz oscilloscopes are listed in the probe's data sheet.
1. Connect the SMA connector of the probe to the SMA to BNC adapter. See
Chapter 2.3.2, "SMA connector and SMA to BNC adapter", on page 12.
2. Connect the SMA to BNC adapter to one of the BNC input connectors of the
oscilloscope. Turn the collar until it clicks. Check that it is locked securely.
Connecting the probe to the oscilloscope

Connecting the probe
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3. Set up the oscilloscope, depending on the used model:
● If the probe is known to the oscilloscope as "Predefined probe" in the
probe setup, select "RT-ZZ80".
● If the probe is not known to the oscilloscope, adjust the channel and probe
settings:
– Input impedance of the channel = 50 Ω
– Unit = Volt
– Attenuation = 10 : 1
During usage, the probe slightly heats up. Warming is normal behavior and not a
sign of malfunction.
3.3 Zero adjustment
The zero error can impair the measurement results, therefore, correct the zero
error if necessary. The R&S RT-ZZ80 has no zero error.
However, differences in DUT and oscilloscope ground levels can cause larger
zero errors visible on the oscilloscope's screen. If the DUT is not floating but
ground-referenced, an zero adjustment improves the measurement results.
The zero error is corrected at the oscilloscope. Depending on the type of the used
oscilloscope, correction is done automatically using the AutoZero function, or
manually ("Zero Adjust" or similar setting). Refer to the oscilloscope's user man-
ual for available functionality and its usage.
1. Connect the probe to the oscilloscope.
2. Set the oscilloscope to the smallest vertical scale.
3. Short the signal pin and the ground pin together and connect them to the
ground of the DUT.
Zero adjustment

Connecting the probe
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4. Adjust the zero position of the waveform using the appropriate function of the
oscilloscope ("AutoZero", "Zero Adjust" or similar).
The waveform is set to 0 V on the horizontal centerline of the oscilloscope.
3.4 Connecting the probe to the DUT
This chapter describes the different ways of connecting the probe to the DUT. In
addition, the usage of the supplied accessories is explained.
Handling the accessories
●The maximum non-destructive input voltage is 20 V (RMS). A higher input
voltage can destroy the probe and the accessories.
●The probe pins are extremely pointed and can easily penetrate clothes and
the skin. Handle the probe pins with great care. To exchange a probe pin, use
tweezers or pliers to avoid injuries.
●Always keep the connections as short as possible for best performance and
signal integrity.
●When transporting the accessories, use the boxes supplied with the probe.
Considerations for soldering
●Do not leave the soldering iron in contact with the probe tip for more than a
few seconds at a time. Excess heat can damage the probe.
●Some solder-in accessories are very fine and sensitive. Stabilize the probe
using appropriate means (e.g. adhesive pads, probe positioner) to protect the
solder joint from excessive mechanical stress.
Connecting the probe to the DUT

Connecting the probe
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Signal pin and ground pin, pogo
Using the signal pin and ground pin, manual
measurements can be performed without or
with only minor limitation of the measurement
bandwith. Best results are achieved if the dis-
tance between signal and ground is small.
Even with maximum distance, rise times
shorter than 55 ps can be reached.
Because the spring-loaded ground pin com-
pensates for minor unevenness and move-
ments, this pin can establish a firm contact
with the test point. It fits into the ground socket
of the probe head.
The distance to the signal pin can be varied by
turning the ground pin.
Distance range:
0 mm to 10 mm (0 mil to 400 mil)
Connecting the probe to the DUT

Connecting the probe
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Signal pin, solder in, and ground pin, solder-in
Using two solder-in pins for ground and signal,
the R&S RT-ZZ80 is soldered directly into the
circuit.
The pins can be exchanged on the probe and
can remain in the circuit. Thus, you can plug
the probe on different test points.
Use tweezers to insert the solder-in pins into
the sockets on the probe, and then cut to the
appropriate length. Keep the pins as short as
possible.
The fine wires on this adapter are best suited
to make secure contact with small contact
points, such as SMT components or IC pins.
Alternatively, the signal pin has a solder tail for
direct soldering of wires.
Distance range:
0 mm to 20 mm (0 mil to 800 mil)
Connecting the probe to the DUT