Rohde & Schwarz RT-ZHD07 User manual

R&S®RT-ZHD07/15/16/60
High Voltage Differential Probe
User Manual
1800258802
Version 02
(B0Iæ2)

This user manual describes the following R&S®RT-ZHD models and options:
●R&S®RT-ZHD07 (1800.2307.02)
●R&S®RT-ZHD15 (1800.2107.02)
●R&S®RT-ZHD16 (1800.2207.02)
●R&S®RT-ZHD60 (1800.2007.02)
© 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.
1800.2588.02 | Version 02 | R&S®RT-ZHD07/15/16/60
Throughout this manual, products from Rohde & Schwarz are indicated without the ® symbol and without product type numbers, e.g.
R&S®RT-ZHD is indicated as R&S RT-ZHD, and the R&S®ProbeMeter is indicated as R&S ProbeMeter.

Contents
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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.................................................................. 7
2 Product description............................................................................... 9
2.1 Key characteristics and key features..........................................................................9
2.1.1 Key characteristics.......................................................................................................... 9
2.1.2 Key features.................................................................................................................. 10
2.2 Unpacking and checking............................................................................................ 11
2.3 Description of the probe.............................................................................................13
2.3.1 Probe box......................................................................................................................13
2.3.2 Probe control box.......................................................................................................... 14
2.3.3 Probe cable................................................................................................................... 17
2.3.4 Input leads.....................................................................................................................17
2.4 Accessories and items............................................................................................... 17
2.4.1 Accessories supplied.................................................................................................... 17
2.4.2 Service accessories...................................................................................................... 19
2.5 Dimensions..................................................................................................................20
3 Connecting the probe..........................................................................21
3.1 Handling the probe..................................................................................................... 21
3.2 Connecting the probe to the oscilloscope............................................................... 21
3.3 Identification of the probe.......................................................................................... 22
3.4 Connecting the probe to the DUT..............................................................................22
3.5 Reducing noise induction.......................................................................................... 24
4 Features and characteristics of R&S RT‑ZHD probes...................... 25
4.1 Micro button................................................................................................................ 25
4.2 R&S ProbeMeter..........................................................................................................25
4.3 Offset compensation.................................................................................................. 26
4.4 Characteristics of differential probes....................................................................... 27
4.4.1 Common mode rejection ratio (CMRR).........................................................................28

Contents
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4.4.2 Dynamic range and operating voltage window............................................................. 28
4.5 Typical characteristics of the R&S RT‑ZHD..............................................................30
4.5.1 Improve the signal integrity........................................................................................... 31
4.5.2 Bandwidth..................................................................................................................... 32
4.5.3 Step response............................................................................................................... 34
4.5.4 CMRR........................................................................................................................... 36
4.5.5 Signal loading of the input signal.................................................................................. 39
5 Maintenance and service.....................................................................40
5.1 Cleaning....................................................................................................................... 40
5.2 Contacting customer support....................................................................................40
5.3 Returning for servicing...............................................................................................41
5.4 Calibration interval......................................................................................................41
5.5 Storage and transport.................................................................................................41
5.6 Disposal....................................................................................................................... 41
5.7 Spare parts.................................................................................................................. 42
6 Functional check..................................................................................43

Safety and regulatory information
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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 electronic
components and devices in industrial, administrative, and laboratory environments.
Use the product only for its designated purpose. Observe the operating conditions and
performance limits stated in the data sheet.
The probe is designed for usage with oscilloscopes that have a Rohde & Schwarz
probe interface. Supported Rohde & Schwarz oscilloscopes are listed in the probe's
data sheet.
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 5. 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 for Oscilloscopes and Accessories" docu-
ment. 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.
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 dam-
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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aged 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 (oscilloscopes),
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 electric 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 alti-
tude of 2000 m above sea level.
The product is suitable for pollution degree 2 environments where nonconductive con-
tamination can occur. For more information on environmental conditions such as ambi-
ent 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 measure-
ment 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 limitation
curves or values are provided in the data sheet.
●Never cause any short circuits when measuring sources with high output currents.
●Use only probes and accessories that comply with the measurement category
(CAT) of your measurement task. If the product is rated for any measurement cate-
gory, 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 suita-
ble 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 voltage level,
and you might misjudge the actual risk.
●When working with high voltages and current probes, observe the additional oper-
ating conditions specified in these safety instructions.
●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.
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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Working with hazardous voltages
Voltages higher than 30 V RMS, or 42 V peak, or 60 V DC are regarded as hazardous
contact voltages. Direct contact with them can cause serious injuries.
Make sure that only electrically skilled persons use the products for measurements on
hazardous contact voltages. These working conditions require special education and
experience to perceive risks and to avoid hazards which electricity can create.
Make sure that the measurement instrument is properly connected to protective earth.
When working with hazardous contact voltages, use protective measures to preclude
direct contact with the measurement setup:
●Do not touch exposed connections and components when power is applied.
●Switch off the test circuit while connecting and disconnecting probe leads.
●Use only insulated voltage probes, test leads and adapters.
●Make sure that the input leads fulfill the safety requirements for your measurement.
The delivered input leads might have a jacket wear indicator that indicates a worn
jacket by different jacket color. In this case, do not use the input lead. Replace it
with a new one.
●When connecting to the DUT, keep your fingers behind finger guard. Remove jew-
elry, watches, and other metallic objects. Only use 4 mm safety banana plugs.
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.
Electrical hazard
Indicates live parts. Risk of electric shock, fire, personal injury or even death.
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.
Warning messages in the documentation

Safety and regulatory information
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WARNING
Potentially hazardous situation. Could result in death or serious injury if not avoided.
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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2 Product description
The R&S RT‑ZHD high-voltage differential probe is designed to safely measure high
voltage floating circuits using a grounded oscilloscope. The probe extends the mea-
surement capability of oscilloscopes in measuring electronic power converters, inver-
ters, motor speed controls, switch mode power supplies and many other applications.
The probe is equipped with the Rohde & Schwarz probe interface. It can be connected
to any Rohde & Schwarz instrument that is compatible with this interface. When con-
nected to the front panel, the probe is controlled by the oscilloscope's software. Sup-
ported oscilloscopes are listed in the data sheet.
2.1 Key characteristics and key features
2.1.1 Key characteristics
Table 2-1: Key characteristics
Parameter R&S RT-ZHD07 R&S RT-
ZHD15/16
R&S RT-ZHD60
Bandwidth DC - 200 MHz DC - 100 MHz
(RT-ZHD15)
DC - 200 MHz
(RT-ZHD16)
DC - 100 MHz
Dynamic range
(differential input)
Attenuation high: ±750 V ±1500 V ±6000 V
Attenuation low: ±75 V ±150 V ±600 V
Operating voltage window
(each pin to GND)
±750 V ±1500 V ±6000 V
Differential Offset ±1000 V ±2000 V ±2000 V
Diff. input resistance 5 MΩ10 MΩ40 MΩ
Diff. input capacitance 2.5 pF 2 pF 2 pF
R&S ProbeMeter, measurement error < 0.1 % < 0.1 % < 0.12 %
Maximum input voltage to earth (each terminal) 300 V CAT III
600 V CAT II
600 V (RMS) /
4500 V (peak)
1000 V CAT III
1000 V (RMS) /
6800 V (peak)
1000 V CAT III
1750 V (RMS) /
6800 V (peak)
Maximum voltage input
The R&S RT‑ZHD high-voltage differential probe is rated for CAT III environments.
Maximum working voltages between each input lead and earth ground apply for all
attenuation settings. The limits are listed in Table 2-1.
Key characteristics and key features

Product description
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The probe is designed to measure electrical devices or installations of categories 0 (I),
II, or III if the effective value of the measured voltage against earth ground does not
exceed the maximum working voltage. The maximum working voltage is derated for
higher frequencies. Voltage derating over frequency is specified in the data sheet.
The rating ensures that the probe is protected against short transient overvoltages as
long as the maximum working voltage limit is observed.
Do not use the probe to measure effective working voltages higher than the specified
voltage between each input lead and earth ground even if the effective differential volt-
age is lower than the specified voltage.
2.1.2 Key features
Micro button
The micro button remotely controls important functions of the Rohde & Schwarz oscil-
loscope. The function is assigned at the oscilloscope.
For details, see Chapter 4.1, "Micro button", on page 25.
R&S ProbeMeter
The R&S ProbeMeter measures the DC voltage of the input signal directly at the probe
tip. It provides a continuous high-precision DC voltage measurement that is independ-
ent of the settings of the oscilloscope and runs in parallel to the time domain measure-
ment. If activated on the base unit, the measured value is displayed on the screen of
the Rohde & Schwarz oscilloscope.
The R&S ProbeMeter simultaneously measures both differential and common mode
DC voltages.
For details, see Chapter 4.2, "R&S ProbeMeter", on page 25.
Data memory
The probe has an integrated data memory, containing the individual probe correction
parameters (e.g. gain, delay, offset). These parameters are read out and processed by
the Rohde & Schwarz oscilloscope. As a result, the probe offers a high degree of accu-
racy, and additional calibration procedures are not required.
Overrange indication
There are two indications for overrange:
●Input overrange indicates an overrange of an input signal against earth, i.e. a viola-
tion of the operating voltage window.
●Output overrange lights up if the differential voltage is too high even if the voltage
to earth is within the specification.
Each overrange condition is indicated by an individual red LED (3 LEDs in total) and a
common buzzer signal. The buzzer can be switched off. For details, see "Overrange
Key characteristics and key features

Product description
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11User Manual 1800.2588.02 ─ 02
indicator at the input terminals" and "Overrange indicator at the output terminal"
on page 16.
Switchable bandwidth limit
The R&S RT‑ZHD contains a switchable analog lowpass with a cutoff frequency of
5 MHz. For measurements with long leads, it is convenient to reduce overshot and
noise by activating the bandwidth limit.
Switchable attenuation
The R&S RT‑ZHD has three attenuation modes: "Auto", "Attenuation high" to reach the
maximum measurable differential voltages, and "Attenuation low" to reduce noise.
The attenuation setting changes only the maximum measurable differential voltage
between the two input voltages. The maximum working voltage between each input
lead and earth ground applies for all attenuation settings.
For details, see "Range: attenuation setting" on page 15.
2.2 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.
Unpacking and checking

Product description
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Delivery notes
Figure 2-1: R&S RT ‑ ZHD probe with accessories
The following items are included in the delivery:
●R&S RT‑ZHD high-voltage differential probe
●Carrying case
●Pince clip (black and red)
●Safety Alligator clips (black and red)
●Test clips (black and red)
●Leads 17 cm (black and red)
●Leads 100 cm (black and red)
●Spade terminal (black and red)
●Test Leads (black and red)
●User manual
●R&S RT‑ZHD data sheet
●Calibration certificate
●Safety instructions for oscilloscopes and accessories (multilingual)
●Documented calibration values (if ordered)
●Two hinged ferrite cores with opening key
Accessories supplied with the device are listed in Chapter 2.4, "Accessories and
items", on page 17.
Unpacking and checking

Product description
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2.3 Description of the probe
The R&S RT‑ZHD consists of the probe control box, two input leads, a probe cable and
a probe box.
Figure 2-2: R&S RT ‑ ZHD probe
1 = Probe control box
2 = Input leads
3 = Safety banana plug (4 mm)
4 = Probe cable
5 = Probe box
2.3.1 Probe box
The probe box connects the probe and the oscilloscope via the Rohde & Schwarz
probe interface. The Rohde & Schwarz probe interface contains a male precision 7 mm
(276 mil) BNC connector and six pogo pin connectors. This interface provides the
required supply voltage and is also used to transmit analog signals and digital data
simultaneously. All the analog voltages required by the probe are generated in the
probe box.
The BNC connector is a precision component designed to reach a much higher fre-
quency limit when connected to an instrument with Rohde & Schwarz probe interface.
Connect the probe only to an instrument with Rohde & Schwarz probe interface. Never
connect it to a usual BNC jack, because this can damage the probe interface.
Description of the probe

Product description
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(1) Rohde & Schwarz probe interface with 7 mm
(276 mil) coaxial connector and 6 pogo pins
(2) Release knob
2.3.2 Probe control box
Contains the high-voltage divider, the active differential amplifier and other electronic
components. All components are designed to ensure safe operation at hazardous con-
tact voltages within the specified working voltage and measurement category. In partic-
ular, all air gaps and creeping distances comply with all current safety standards to pro-
tect the user, the measurement object, and the probe against any harm or damage.
The active differential amplifier takes the difference between the positive and negative
signal input voltages. The probe transfers this difference signal to the oscilloscope.
Common mode voltages are rejected.
Description of the probe

Product description
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15User Manual 1800.2588.02 ─ 02
Figure 2-3: Probe control box
1 = Overrange indicators at each of the inputs
2 = Overrange indicator at the output
3 = Range: attenuation setting
4 = Bandwidth limit 5 MHz
5 = Audible overrange on/off
6 = Micro button (function programmable)
Range: attenuation setting
Pressing the [Range] button of the probe changes the attenuation mode.
●"Auto": (default on start-up and preset)
The attenuation of the probe is automatically selected by the oscilloscope and
depends on the vertical scaling of the scope.
●"Attenuation high"
You can select the attenuation of the probe and it is not changed by the vertical
scope settings. In this mode, you reach the maximum measurable differential vol-
tages.
Description of the probe

Product description
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●"Attenuation low"
You can select the attenuation of the probe and it is not changed by the vertical
scope settings. This setting is characterized by less noise. If the attenuation is
changed from "high" to "low", the sensitivity is changed by the factor of 10 and the
measurable differential voltage is divided by a factor of 10.
The attenuation values depend on the probe:
Table 2-2: Attenuation and maximum peak voltages of R&S RT ‑ ZHD
Probe type Attenuation high Attenuation low
Attenuation Max. voltage Attenuation Max. voltage
RT-ZHD07 250 : 1 750 Vpk 25 : 1 75 Vpk
RT-ZHD15/16 500 : 1 1500 Vpk 50 : 1 150 Vpk
RT-ZHD60 1000 : 1 6000 Vpk 100 : 1 600 Vpk
The selected attenuation does not influence the allowed working voltage, measure-
ment category, and the usable common mode range. Thus, setting the attenuation
does not cause a hazardous situation or a measurement error due to inadmissible
common mode voltages.
Audible overrange on/off
Whenever an overrange condition occurs, the buzzer generates a continuous audible
alarm. The button toggles the buzzer on and off.
Overrange indicator at the input terminals
The overrange indicator lights red if the voltage of the single ended input signal to GND
exceeds the dynamic input range limit of the probe. In this case, the signal on the
probe output may not accurately represent the signal on the probe input.
The overvoltage indication works well on DC signals. AC signal (frequencies above
some kHz) are not covered by the overvoltage indication.
Overrange indicator at the output terminal
The overrange indicator lights red if the voltage of the differential signal exceeds the
dynamic range limit at the output of the probe. In this case, the signal on the probe out-
put may not accurately represent the signal on the probe input.
Micro button
The micro button remotely controls important functions of the Rohde & Schwarz oscil-
loscope. The function is assigned at the oscilloscope.
For details, see Chapter 4.1, "Micro button", on page 25.
Description of the probe

Product description
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2.3.3 Probe cable
Connects the probe control box to the probe box. Its length of around 150 cm allows
for a comfortable working distance to the base unit.
2.3.4 Input leads
The delivered input leads provide flexible contact to the DUT even in confined physical
conditions. The input leads are plugged to the probe control box and can be substitu-
ted by other measurement leads with a 4 mm safety banana plug. However, the maxi-
mum performance can only be achieved with the delivered short leads (17 cm) in com-
bination with the safety alligator clips. The 4 mm safety banana plugs can be used to
contact the DUT directly, or to connect suitable contact accessories like the pincer clip
delivered with the probe.
The delivered input leads have a jacket wear indicator. If the jacket is worn, a different
jacket color becomes visible. If you see this color indicator, do not use the probe lead.
If other input leads are used, make sure that they fulfill the safety requirements for your
measurement. Only use leads with 4 mm safety banana plugs.
2.4 Accessories and items
2.4.1 Accessories supplied
Table 2-3 shows the accessories that are supplied with the R&S RT‑ZHD high-voltage
differential probe.
Observe the measurement category (CAT) of the accessories. The accessory with the
minor CAT value defines the CAT value of the whole measurement setup.
Accessories and items

Product description
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18User Manual 1800.2588.02 ─ 02
Table 2-3: Supplied accessories
Item Quantity Description
2 Test clip
Maximum rating: 1000 V (RMS) CAT IV
2 Pincer clip Maximum rating: 1000 V
(RMS) CAT III
2 Safety Alligator clip Maximum rating:
1000 V (RMS) CAT III
2 Spade terminal
Maximum rating: 1000 V (RMS) CAT II
Opening ∅ 2 mm and 4.1 mm
Reduces the CAT of the measurement
setup to CAT II. No protective shroud:
Do not plug if high voltage is on.
2 Long Leads (100cm)
Maximum rating: 1000 V (RMS) CAT III
Accessories and items

Product description
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Item Quantity Description
2 Short Leads (17cm)
Maximum rating: 1000 V (RMS) CAT III
2 Test leads
Maximum rating: 1000 V (RMS) CAT III
1 Two hinged ferrite cores
With key for easier opening
1 Soft case with foam inlay
For a list of spare parts, see Chapter 5.7, "Spare parts", on page 42.
2.4.2 Service accessories
To order accessories for servicing the probe, contact your Rohde & Schwarz service
center. The following accessories are available:
Accessories and items

Product description
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Table 2-4: 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‑ZHD Service Manual The service manual contains a detailed description of the
performance test to verify the specifications, and other
important service procedures.
2.5 Dimensions
With the accessory for specified operation conditions, the R&S RT‑ZHD has the follow-
ing dimensions:
Figure 2-4: Dimensions of the R&S RT ‑ ZHD probe with accessories
Dimensions