Rohde & Schwarz ZN-Z84 User manual

R&S®ZN-Z84
Switch Matrix
User Manual
1319541302
Version 04
(=CÄ=2)

This manual describes the R&S®ZN-Z84 Base Unit and port extension options:
●R&S®ZN-Z84 "Matrix Base Unit 2x6 Configuration", order no. 1319.4500.02
●R&S®ZN-Z84-B22 "Additional Test Ports 7-12 (2 VNA Ports)", order no.
1319.4969.22
●R&S®ZN-Z84-B32 "Additional Test Ports 13-18 (2 VNA Ports)", order no.
1319.4969.32
●R&S®ZN-Z84-B42 "Additional Test Ports 19-24 (2 VNA Ports)", order no.
1319.4969.42
●R&S®ZN-Z84-B24 "Additional Test Ports 7-12 (4 VNA Ports)", order no.
1319.4969.24
●R&S®ZN-Z84-B34 "Additional Test Ports 13-18 (4 VNA Ports)", order no.
1319.4969.34
●R&S®ZN-Z84-B44 "Additional Test Ports 19-24 (4 VNA Ports)", order no.
1319.4969.44
The software contained in this product uses several valuable open source software packages. For infor-
mation, see the "Open Source Acknowledgment" on the user documentation CD-ROM (included in deliv-
ery).
Rohde & Schwarz would like to thank the open source community for their valuable contribution to embed-
ded computing.
© 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.
Trade names are trademarks of the owners.
1319.5413.02 | Version 04 | R&S®ZN-Z84
The following abbreviation is used in this manual: R&S® is abbreviated as R&S.

Contents
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Contents
1 Safety and regulatory information....................................... 7
1.1 Safety instructions................................................................................7
1.2 Labels on the product........................................................................ 10
1.3 Warning messages in the documentation........................................ 11
1.4 Korea certification class B................................................................. 11
2 Introduction..........................................................................12
2.1 Option concept....................................................................................12
2.2 About this manual...............................................................................13
3 Preparing for use................................................................. 14
3.1 Lifting and carrying............................................................................ 14
3.2 Unpacking and checking....................................................................14
3.3 Choosing the operating site.............................................................. 14
3.4 Setting up the product........................................................................15
3.5 Considerations for test setup............................................................ 17
3.6 Connecting to power.......................................................................... 18
3.7 Connecting external devices............................................................. 18
3.8 Switching on or off............................................................................. 20
3.9 Function check....................................................................................21
4 Instrument tour.................................................................... 22
4.1 Front panel.......................................................................................... 22
4.2 Rear panel............................................................................................25
5 Instrument functions........................................................... 26
5.1 Matrix building blocks........................................................................ 26
5.2 Extensions with 2 matrix VNA ports................................................. 28

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4User Manual 1319.5413.02 ─ 04
5.3 Extensions with 4 matrix VNA ports................................................. 31
6 Application........................................................................... 35
6.1 Matrix setup and operation at the R&S ZNx..................................... 36
6.2 RF connections and matrix connectivity..........................................36
6.3 Multiple paths: precision versus speed............................................38
7 Operation..............................................................................40
7.1 Basic information on remote control................................................ 40
7.2 Remote control – commands.............................................................44
8 Maintenance, storage and disposal................................... 54
8.1 Cleaning...............................................................................................54
8.2 Service work........................................................................................54
8.3 Storage.................................................................................................54
8.4 Disposal............................................................................................... 54
9 Transporting.........................................................................56
10 Contacting customer support............................................ 57
Annex....................................................................................58
A ZN-Z8x user tool.................................................................. 58
A.1 Software installation...........................................................................58
A.2 Getting started.................................................................................... 59
A.3 Device panel........................................................................................ 60
A.4 Test tab.................................................................................................61
A.5 Settings tab......................................................................................... 62

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A.6 System monitor tab............................................................................ 64
List of commands................................................................ 66
Index..................................................................................... 67

Contents
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Safety and regulatory information
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7User Manual 1319.5413.02 ─ 04
1 Safety and regulatory information
The product documentation helps you use the product safely and efficiently. Fol-
low the instructions provided here and in the following chapters.
Intended use
This product has been designed to be used with Rohde & Schwarz vector net-
work analyzers R&S ZNA, R&S ZNB, R&S ZNBT and R&S ZND. They are inten-
ded for the development, production and verification of electronic components
and devices in industrial, administrative and laboratory environments. Use the
R&S ZN-Z84 only for its designated purpose. Observe the operating conditions
and performance limits stated in the data sheet.
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 7. 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". If you are unsure about the
appropriate use, contact Rohde & Schwarz customer service.
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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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.
Lifting and carrying the product
The maximum weight of the product is provided in the data sheet. You can lift or
carry the product by yourself, if you can manage the weight on your own. Alterna-
tively, you can use lifting or transporting equipment. Follow the instructions provi-
ded by the equipment manufacturer.
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 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 environ-
ments where nonconductive contamination can occur. For more information on
environmental conditions such as ambient temperature and humidity, see the
data sheet.
Setting up the product
Always place the product on a stable, flat and level surface with the bottom of the
product facing down. If the product is designed for different positions, secure the
product so that it cannot fall over.
If the product has foldable feet, always fold the feet completely in or out to ensure
stability. The feet can collapse if they are not folded out completely or if the prod-
uct is moved without lifting it. The foldable feet are designed to carry the weight of
the product, but not an extra load.
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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9User Manual 1319.5413.02 ─ 04
If stacking is possible, keep in mind that a stack of products can fall over and
cause injury.
If you mount products in a rack, ensure that the rack has sufficient load capacity
and stability. Observe the specifications of the rack manufacturer. Always install
the products from the bottom shelf to the top shelf so that the rack stands
securely. Secure the product so that it cannot fall off the rack.
Connecting to power
The product is an overvoltage category II product. Connect the product to a fixed
installation used to supply energy-consuming equipment such as household
appliances and similar loads. Keep in mind that electrically powered products
have risks, such as electric shock, fire, personal injury or even death. Replace
parts that are relevant to safety only by original parts, e.g. power cables or fuses.
Take the following measures for your safety:
●Before switching on the product, ensure that the voltage and frequency indica-
ted on the product match the available power source. If the power adapter
does not adjust automatically, set the correct value and check the rating of the
fuse.
●Only use the power cable delivered with the product. It complies with country-
specific safety requirements. Only insert the plug into an outlet with protective
conductor terminal.
●Only use intact cables and route them carefully so that they cannot be dam-
aged. Check the power cables regularly to ensure that they are undamaged.
Also ensure that nobody can trip over loose cables.
●If you connect the product to an external power supply, use the one delivered
with the product or recommended in the product documentation. The external
power supply must conform to the country-specific regulations.
●Only connect the product to a power source with a fuse protection of maxi-
mum 20 A.
●Ensure that you can disconnect the product from the power source at any
time. Pull the power plug to disconnect the product. The power plug must be
easily accessible. If the product is integrated into a system that does not meet
these requirements, provide an easily accessible circuit breaker at the system
level.
Safety instructions

Safety and regulatory information
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Cleaning the product
Use a dry, lint-free cloth to clean the product. When cleaning, keep in mind that
the casing is not waterproof. Do not use liquid cleaning agents.
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.
Hot surface
Do not touch. Risk of skin burns. Risk of fire.
Protective conductor terminal
Connect this terminal to a grounded external conductor or to protective ground. This
connection protects you against electric shock if an electric problem occurs.
1.2 Labels on the product
Labels on the casing inform about:
●Personal safety, see "Meaning of safety labels" on page 10
●Product and environment safety, see Table 1-1
●Identification of the calibration unit model and supporting operating frequency
range
Table 1-1: Labels regarding product and environment safety
Labeling in line with EN 50419 for disposal of electrical and electronic equipment after
the product has come to the end of its service life. For more information, see the prod-
uct user manual, chapter "Disposal".
Take care when handling electrostatic sensitive devices.
Labels on the product

Safety and regulatory information
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11User Manual 1319.5413.02 ─ 04
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.
1.4 Korea certification class B
이 기기는 가정용(B급) 전자파 적합기기로서 주로 가정에서 사용하는 것을 목적으
로 하며, 모든 지역에서 사용할 수 있습니다.
Korea certification class B

Introduction
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12User Manual 1319.5413.02 ─ 04
2 Introduction
The R&S ZN-Z84 is designed as an external switch matrix for the Rohde &
Schwarz vector network analyzers R&S ZNA, R&S ZNB, R&S ZNBT and
R&S ZND.
2.1 Option concept
Depending on the installed options, the R&S ZN-Z84 offers 2 or 4-vector network
analyzer (VNA) ports and up to 24 test ports, each of them operating within a fre-
quency range of 10 MHz to 8.5 GHz.
The Base Unit (order no. 1319.4500.02) implements a 2x6 switch matrix that
allows to connect its two VNA ports to any pair of test ports. It offers extension
paths for 2 or 4 VNA ports:
Table 2-1: Extension path for 2 matrix VNA ports
Option Extension Order No.
R&S ZN-Z84-B22 Test ports 7 to 12 1319.4969.22
R&S ZN-Z84-B32 Test ports 13 to 18 1319.4969.32
R&S ZN-Z84-B42 Test ports 19 to 24 1319.4969.42
Table 2-2: Extension path for 4 matrix VNA ports
Option Extension Order No.
R&S ZN-Z84-B24 VNA ports 3 and 4
Test ports 7 to 12
1319.4969.24
R&S ZN-Z84-B34 Test ports 13 to 18 1319.4969.34
R&S ZN-Z84-B44 Test ports 19 to 24 1319.4969.44
For technical details, see the R&S ZN-Z84 data sheet.
Option concept

Introduction
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13User Manual 1319.5413.02 ─ 04
2.2 About this manual
The user manual is included on the CD-ROM supplied with the delivery. Beyond
the "getting started" chapters, it contains descriptions of all instrument functions
and of the remote control of the instrument. In addition, it contains notes on pre-
ventative maintenance for the R&S ZN-Z84 and on troubleshooting based on the
warnings and error messages that the instrument emits. Finally it contains a
description of the ZN-Z8x user tool, which can also be found on the CD-ROM.
The most recent version is available on the Internet.
About this manual

Preparing for use
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14User Manual 1319.5413.02 ─ 04
3 Preparing for use
The R&S ZN-Z84 is designed as a base unit (2x6 switch matrix) that can be
equipped with up to three optional port extensions. The following description
applies to all variants; differences are pointed out explicitly where relevant.
The section below describes how to put the switch matrix R&S ZN-Z84 into oper-
ation, how to establish external connections and integrate the R&S ZN-Z84 into a
network.
3.1 Lifting and carrying
See "Lifting and carrying the product" on page 8.
3.2 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.
3.3 Choosing the operating site
Specific operating conditions ensure proper operation and avoid damage to the
product and connected devices. For information on environmental conditions
such as ambient temperature and humidity, see the data sheet.
See also "Choosing the operating site" on page 8.
Choosing the operating site

Preparing for use
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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.
●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
radiated disturbances. It is therefore not suitable for class B environments.
If class A equipment causes radio disturbances, take appropriate measures to
eliminate them.
3.4 Setting up the product
See also:
●"Setting up the product" on page 8
●"Intended use" on page 7
3.4.1 Placing the product on a bench top
To place the product on a bench top
1. Place the product on a stable, flat and level surface. Ensure that the surface
can support the weight of the product. For information on the weight, see the
data sheet.
2. CAUTION! Foldable feet can collapse. See "Setting up the product"
on page 8.
Always fold the feet completely in or out. With folded-out feet, do not place
anything on top or underneath the product.
3. WARNING! A stack of products can fall over and cause injury. Never stack
more than three products on top of each other. Instead, mount them in a rack.
Stack as follows:
● If the products have foldable feet, fold them in completely.
Setting up the product

Preparing for use
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● It is best if all products have the same dimensions (width and length). If the
products have different dimensions, stack according to size and place the
smallest product on top.
● Do not exceed the permissible total load placed on the product at the bot-
tom of the stack:
– 50 kg when stacking products of identical dimensions (left figure).
– 25 kg when stacking smaller products on top (middle figure).
Left = Stacked correctly, same dimensions
Middle = Stacked correctly, different dimensions
Right = Stacked incorrectly, too many products
4. NOTICE! Overheating can damage the product.
Prevent overheating as follows:
● Keep a minimum distance of 10 cm between the fan openings of the prod-
uct and any object in the vicinity to provide sufficient airflow and ventila-
tion.
● Do not place the product next to heat-generating equipment such as radia-
tors or other products.
3.4.2 Mounting the product in a rack
To prepare the rack
1. Observe the requirements and instructions in "Setting up the product"
on page 8.
2. NOTICE! Insufficient airflow can cause overheating and damage the product.
Design and implement an efficient ventilation concept for the rack.
Setting up the product

Preparing for use
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To mount the product in a rack
1. Use an adapter kit to prepare the product for rack mounting.
a) Order the 19" rack adapter kit designed for the product. For the order num-
ber, see data sheet.
b) Mount the adapter kit. Follow the assembly instructions provided with the
adapter kit.
2. Grab the product by the handles and push it onto the shelf until the rack
brackets fit closely to the rack.
3. Tighten all screws on the rack brackets to secure the product in the rack.
To unmount the product from a rack
1. Loosen the screws at the rack brackets.
2. Remove the product from the rack.
3. If placing the product on a bench top again, unmount the adapter kit from the
product. Follow the instructions provided with the adapter kit.
3.5 Considerations for test setup
Cable selection and electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can affect the measurement results.
To suppress electromagnetic radiation during operation:
●Use high-quality shielded cables, for example, double-shielded RF and LAN
cables.
●Always terminate open cable ends.
●Ensure that connected external devices comply with EMC regulations.
●Use ≤ 3 m for the USB cable length or the USB cable delivered with the cali-
bration unit, if possible.
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 devi-
ces.
Considerations for test setup

Preparing for use
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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.
3.6 Connecting to power
For safety information, see "Connecting to power" on page 9.
1. Plug the AC power cable into the AC power connector on the rear panel of the
product. Only use the AC power cable delivered with the product.
2. Plug the AC power cable into a power outlet with ground contact.
The required ratings are listed next to the AC power connector and in the data
sheet.
3. If necessary, also ground the product using the grounding terminal .
When the instrument is connected to the AC supply, it automatically adjusts to the
AC supply voltage (see the labeling for the voltage range). It is not necessary to
manually adjust the instrument to a specific voltage or to change the fuse.
3.7 Connecting external devices
The R&S ZN-Z84 is equipped with different interfaces for establishing a remote
control connection, typically from a VNA of the R&S ZNA, R&S ZNB, R&S ZNBT
and R&S ZND family.
Connecting external devices

Preparing for use
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3.7.1 USB
If necessary, connect the USB connecting cable to the USB type B (slave) port on
the rear panel. With direct connection to a master device, a connecting cable A-B
(plug type A onto plug type B) must be used.
3.7.2 LAN
The connection to the LAN is made using a commercially available RJ-45 cable
via the LAN interface on the back of the instrument.
►NOTICE! Possible disturbance of network operation.
Switch off the instrument before connecting or removing the network cable to
ensure reliable detection of the network connection and avoid faults during
operation of the instrument.
The network interface works with a 100 Mbit/s IEEE 802.3u Ethernet. The TCP/IP
network protocol and the associated network services are preconfigured. To
exchange data in a local area network (LAN), it must be possible to address each
connected computer or instrument via a unique IP address or a hostname.
By default, every R&S ZN-Z84 is assigned a hostname ZN-Z84X<serial
number>.
3.7.2.1 Networks with DHCP
The R&S ZN-Z84 is preconfigured to use the dynamic host configuration protocol
(DHCP). In such networks, the R&S ZN-Z84 is automatically assigned a free IP
address.
3.7.2.2 Static IP configuration
With static IP configuration, the static IP configuration data are usually provided
by the network administrator. They can be activated on the R&S ZN-Z84 using
remote control.
Connecting external devices

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3.7.2.3 Point-to-Point connections
Establishing a simple network – a LAN connection between an R&S ZN-Z84 and
a computer without integration into a larger network – requires assignment of an
IP address for the R&S ZN-Z84 and the computer. Private IP addresses
192.168.xxx.yyy are available for this connection. The values for xxx and yyy
range from 1 to 254; the subnet mask length is 24 or higher. The IP address for
the gateway must also be specified, but it is not of significance in this case.
3.7.3 Direct control
The "direct control" (a.k.a. "device control") interface allows you to establish a
direct connection between the measurement bus of an R&S ZNB or R&S ZNBT
and the FPGA controlling the routes of a switch matrix R&S ZN-Z8x. As direct
control bypasses the matrix's microcontroller, it significantly reduces the switching
times compared to management via USB or LAN.
The R&S ZNB (R&S ZNBT) must be equipped with the device control option
R&S ZNB-B12 (R&S ZNBT-B12).
The FPGA is put on the measurement bus by connecting the matrix's "Direct
Control IN" interface to the analyzer's "DIRECT CTRL" interface; cascading of
Direct Control connections is possible via "Direct Control OUT" (see Table 4-1).
A suitable connection cable is provided with option R&S ZN-B121 (order no.
1323.9290.00).
3.8 Switching on or off
Table 3-1: Overview of power states
Status LED Position of power switch
Off Off [0]
Standby orange [I]
Ready green [I]
Switching on or off