Valon 5009 User manual

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 1
5009 Dual Frequency Synthesizer Module
Operations Manual
Version 1.36
August 02, 2019

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 2
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. 5
1.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 5
1.2 Detailed Description ........................................................................................................................ 5
1.3 Electrical Specifications .................................................................................................................... 7
1.4 User interface USB and TTL User Port ........................................................................................... 10
1.5 Setting the Baud Rate .................................................................................................................... 11
1.6 Safety ............................................................................................................................................. 11
1.7 Power Connections ........................................................................................................................ 12
1.8 RoHS (Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances) ................................................... 12
1.9 FCC Part 15 ..................................................................................................................................... 12
1.10 Default Frequency Setting ............................................................................................................. 12
1.11 Cleans Function (Sanitize) .............................................................................................................. 12
1.12 Place of Manufacture ..................................................................................................................... 12
2 Quick-Start Instructions .............................................................................................................................. 13
3 Configuration Manager (CM) graphical user interface (GUI)...................................................................... 15
3.1 Configuration Manager Menu Bar ................................................................................................. 15
3.2 Configuration Manager Main Page ................................................................................................ 16
3.3 Configuration Manager Sweep Page ............................................................................................. 20
3.4 Configuration Manager LIST page .................................................................................................. 21
3.5 Diagnostics Page ............................................................................................................................ 22
4 Programming With a Terminal Program ..................................................................................................... 23
4.1 Introduction to Commands ............................................................................................................ 23
4.2 Syntax notes: .................................................................................................................................. 23
4.3 Query syntax .................................................................................................................................. 24
4.4 General Commands ....................................................................................................................... 24
4.4.1 Baud ..................................................................................................................................... 24
4.4.2 Source <1|2> ....................................................................................................................... 24
4.4.3 STATus ................................................................................................................................. 24
4.4.4 LocK? .................................................................................................................................... 24
4.4.5 ID.......................................................................................................................................... 24
4.4.6 Help ..................................................................................................................................... 25
4.4.7 RCL ....................................................................................................................................... 25
4.4.8 RST ....................................................................................................................................... 25
4.4.9 SAVe ..................................................................................................................................... 25

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 3
4.4.10 CLEanse ................................................................................................................................ 25
4.5 MODe ............................................................................................................................................. 25
4.5.1 Source <1|2>; MODe <CW > ............................................................................................. 25
4.5.2 Source <1|2>; MODe SWEep ............................................................................................. 26
4.5.3 Source <1|2>; MODe LIST.................................................................................................. 26
4.6 Frequency Setting Commands (CW) .............................................................................................. 26
4.6.1 Source <1|2>; <Frequency <F> <U> .................................................................................... 26
4.6.2 Source <1|2>; OFFset <F> <U> ........................................................................................... 27
4.6.3 Source <1|2>; FrequencyStep <F> <U> .............................................................................. 27
4.6.4 Source <1|2>;FrequencyINCrement <F> <U> .................................................................... 27
4.6.5 Source <1|2>;FrequencyDECrement <F> <U> .................................................................... 27
4.7 Sweep Mode .................................................................................................................................. 27
4.7.1 Source <1|2>; SWEep ........................................................................................................ 27
4.7.2 Source <1|2>; STARt <F> <U> ........................................................................................... 27
4.7.3 Source <1|2; STOP <F> <U> .............................................................................................. 28
4.7.4 Source <1|2>; STEP <F> <U> .............................................................................................. 28
4.7.5 Source <1|2>; SINC <F> <U> ............................................................................................... 28
4.7.6 Source <1|2>; RATE<ms> ................................................................................................... 28
4.7.7 Source <1|2>; Run [0|1|2|3] .............................................................................................. 28
4.7.8 Source <1|2>; Halt............................................................................................................... 28
4.7.9 Source <1|2>; TMODe <AUT0|MANual|EXTermal|EXTstep> ............................................ 28
4.7.10 TRGR .................................................................................................................................... 28
4.7.11 RetraceTIME ; <ms> ............................................................................................................. 28
4.8 List Mode ....................................................................................................................................... 29
4.8.1 List entry ............................................................................................................................. 29
4.8.2 List hardware Control .......................................................................................................... 29
4.9 Power Level, Attenuation Control, Amplitude Modulation ........................................................... 30
4.9.1 Source<1|2>; ATTenuator<0.0|0.5|1.0|...31.5> ................................................................ 30
4.9.2 Source <1|2>; PLEVel <0|1|2|3> ........................................................................................ 30
4.9.3 Source <1|2>; OEN <0|1|2 or OFF|ON> ............................................................................. 30
4.9.4 Source <1|2>; PDN <0|1> ................................................................................................... 30
4.9.5 Source <1|2>; AMDepth<0|0.5|1.0|..31.5> ....................................................................... 30
4.9.6 Source <1|2>; AMFrequency <f> ........................................................................................ 30
4.10 Configuration Commands .............................................................................................................. 31

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 4
4.10.1 REFerence; <F> <U> ............................................................................................................. 31
4.10.2 REFTrim; <0|1|2|...255> ..................................................................................................... 31
4.10.3 REFerenceSource; ................................................................................................................ 31
4.10.4 Source <1|2>; PFD <F> <U> ................................................................................................. 31
4.10.5 Source <1|2>; REFerenceDouBler <Enable|Disable>.......................................................... 32
4.10.6 Source <1|2>; REFerenceDIVider <Enable|Disable>........................................................... 32
4.10.7 Source <1|2>; ChargePump <0|1|2|...15> ........................................................................ 32
4.10.8 Source<1|2>; SDN<00|10|11> ........................................................................................... 33
4.10.9 Source<1|2>; INTFRAC <0,1,2> ........................................................................................... 33
4.10.10 Source<1|2>; NAMe <name> ..................................................................................... 33
5 User Port ..................................................................................................................................................... 34
5.1.1 User Port Pin Assignments .................................................................................................. 34
5.1.2 Lock Detector/Sweep Sync/ Sweep Trigger ........................................................................ 34
5.1.3 External Switch and cable recommendations for USER PORT ............................................ 35
6 Mechanical Dimensions .............................................................................................................................. 36

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 5
1 Introduction
1.1 Overview
The Valon Technology 5009 Dual Frequency Synthesizer Module is a versatile, low-cost dual
channel, PLL-synthesized RF signal source programmable from 23.5MHz to 6GHz , with output
level control from approximately +15dBm to -15 dBm in 0.5dB steps. Both sources are locked to
a common internal TCXO reference or to an external frequency reference. The synthesizers are
fully shielded by machined aluminum, RF-tight, housing and use low noise circuit techniques to
ensure high signal purity.
The 5009 can be controlled using simple, human-readable, commands either through the micro-
USB port or the direct TTL-User port. Alternatively, the 5009 can be configured using the
V5009CM.exe downloadable MS-Windows based graphical user interface. The 5009 settings
can all be saved to non-volatile flash memory for automatic recall on power up.
1.2 Detailed Description
Figure 1 Block Diagram
Figure 1 shows a block diagram of the 5009 system topology. The 32-bit ARM processor controls
the operation of the synthesizer as well as storing user settings in non-volatile flash memory.
Simple, human readable, commands can be sent through either the micro-USB serial port or to
the 3.3V TTL USER port to control the operation of the 5009 synthesizers.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 6
When the processor receives a command, it then calculates the register values required for each
synthesizer and any other hardware. The ARM processor can make these calculation very
quickly which allows for fast sweep operation by simply setting the start and stop frequencies.
The actual synthesizers are integrated VCO/PLL ICs. The basic synthesizer VCO frequency is
3000MHz to 6000MHz. Subsequent lower frequencies are created by dividing the VCO output by
cascaded digital dividers. Since these dividers are digital, the output frequency will not be a sign
wave and will have high harmonic content.
The output of the divider is amplified by a pre-amplifier that has 4-level of gain control. This,
together with the following digital step attenuator (DSA) provides just over 30dB of level control
in 0.5dB steps. The PA provides additional flat gain to give an output of typically +15dBm over
the full frequency range with a typical return loss of 14dB. The pre-amplifier can be turned off
which drops the output level by approximately 50dB providing a low level output at around -
65dBm.
Both synthesizer are locked to a 40MHz internal high-stability, low phase noise, precision analog
compensated VCTCXO. The initial accuracy is better than 2ppm and the stability over
temperature and time is better than 2ppm. Typical initial frequency error is less than 1ppm
while the stability over the -30deg. C. to +70deg. C is less than 0.5ppm. For even better stability
the user can select an external reference in the range of 10MHz to 200MHz. The VCTCXO allows
the user to correct any frequency error to within about 0.010ppm using the Also, the VCTCXO
option allows for electronic frequency control (EFC) by applying a dc tune voltage to the external
reference input.
The 5009 uses a total of five, low-noise, low dropout voltage regulators. Having multiple
separate regulators maximizes the isolation between each synthesizer output and helps improve
close-in phase noise performance. Ultra low noise LDOs are used to power the integrated
PLL/VCO ICs while a 5V LDO is used to power the output power amplifier. The ARM processor
and USB interface have a separate 3V LDOs which isolate digital processor noise from the
synthesizers. The VCTCXO is powered by the synthesizer 1's 3V ultra low noise LDO.
The synthesizer is designed to run from an external 6Vdc power supply capable of supplying the
maximum current draw (see specifications). No special power supply is required and most
switching power supplies will work without degrading the noise performance of the
synthesizers. The maximum input voltage is 8Vdc. Above 9.8V, the synthesizer will shut down.
When using the synthesizer at power supply voltage higher than 6V, it may be necessary to
provide additional heat sinking or cooling depending upon the operating environment maximum
temperature expected. The absolute non-operational maximum input is ± 16V, reverse polarity
protection is provided. The 5009 cannot be powered from the USB port.
Raising the input voltage to >10V for more than 10sec will reset all of the synthesizers stored
settings to the factory default values.
The 5009 is equipped with a USER PORT which can be use to provide a direct TTL-serial interface
at a default baud rate of 115200. The USER PORT is also used in LIST mode to allow remote

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 7
switches to select preset frequencies. In SWEEP mode the USER PORT has sweep trigger and
sweep enable signals preset.
1.3 Electrical Specifications
Note: The 5009 is NOT USB powered See Valon PS6V-1 power supply kit.
DC Input
Input Voltage Range
Absolute Max
Operational Max
Operational Min
Reduced performance
Min non-operational
+16V to -16V (reverse protected)
+8v
+6V Recommended Operation Voltage
+4.8 to 5.8V (output power reduced)
+3.5V (synthesizer remains locked and serial port ok)
>10V for >10sec resets the synthesizer to factory default settings
Input Current
Source 1 and Source 2 on
Source 1 or Source 2 on
Source and Source 2 off
560mA Output Enabled
330m Output disabled
190mA Output disabled
270mA Output enable
30mA both disabled
DC Input Connector Hirose DF3A-2P-2DS
Mates with Hirose DF3-2S-2C plug and pre-crimped wire H2BXT-10112-R4
(red) and H2BXT-10112-B4 (black). 20” dc cables supplied with synthesizer,
additional cables available.
Full performance is obtained when the dc input voltage is in the operational range. If the input
voltage is increased above the operational range, the output will be disabled and the synthesizer
will be in standby mode. The synthesizer may be operated with reduced RF output power in
the reduced performance voltage range. If the dc voltage is in the Min non-operational range,
the output will be disabled but all user setting will be retained. Input voltages below the
minimum non-operational range will cause a reset condition.
RF Synthesizer Specifications
(Unless otherwise noted, all specifications apply equally to both synthesizers.)
Frequency Range
Max
Min
6000MHz
23.5MHz
Frequency Increment (Fractional-
N Mode)
Frequency Range (MHz)
3000~6000
1500~3000
750~1500
375~750
187.5~375
93.75~187.5
46.875~93.75
23.4375~46.875
20MHz reference
Reference Doubler ON
10 kHz
5 kHz
2.5 kHz
1.25 kHz
1 kHz
500 Hz
250 Hz
100 Hz
(minimum step size)
20MHz reference
Reference Doubler OFF
5 kHz
2.5 kHz
1.25 kHz
1 kHz
500 Hz
250 Hz
100 Hz
50 Hz
(minimum step size)

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 8
Frequency Lock Time <100uS
Lock time is from the time the frequency command is sent, or a frequency step in
sweep mode, or input from User Port in List mode to a sable Lock Detector output
Frequency Increment (Integer-N
Mode)
Frequency Range (MHz)
3000~6000
1500~3000
750~1500
375~750
187.5~375
93.75~187.5
46.875~93.75
23.4375~46.875
20MHz reference
Reference Doubler ON
40 MHz
20 MHz
10 MHz
5 MHz
2.5 MHz
1.25 MHz
625 kHz
312.5 kHz
20MHz reference
Reference Doubler OFF
20 MHz
10 MHz
5 MHz
2.5 MHz
1.25 MHz
625 kHz
312.5 kHz
156.25kHz
Sweep rate 0.1ms to 1sec in 0.1ms steps
Phase Noise Typical phase noise as measured with Berkeley Nucleonics 7300 Signal Source
Analyzer
10Hz 100Hz 1kHz 10kHz 100kHz 1MHz 10MHz
6GHz -54 -59 -85 -90 -94 -126 -147 dBc/Hz
5GHz -57 -61 -86 -93 -94 -127 -149 dBc/Hz
4GHz -76 -82 -89 -98 -95 -129 -150 dBc/Hz
3GHz -60 -65 -93 -101 -100 -134 -150 dBc/Hz
2GHz -64 -69 -96 -104 -100 -130 -152 dBc/Hz
1GHz -70 -99 -99 -107 -106 -140 -152 dBc/Hz
500MHz -76 -81 -105 -113 -112 -124 -152 dBc/Hz
200MHz -83 -89 -113 -121 -124 -152 -155 dBc/Hz
40MHz -90 -104 -126 -132 -135 -156 -157 dBc/Hz
Harmonics The 5009 output waveform is a clipped sine wave. Harmonics are typically 12dBc.
Odd harmonics are most prominent.
Spurious Non-Harmonic <-60dBc except boundary spurs
Output Return loss
25~ 100MHz
100 ~ 1000MHz
1000 ~ 2000MHz
2000 ~ 4000MHz
4000 ~ 6000MHz
Min.(dB)
>5
>9
>8
>6
>7
Typical(dB)
8dB
15
10
8
10
Connectors SMA Female
Unless otherwise noted, all specifications apply equally to both synthesizers.
AM Modulation 0.5dB to 31.5dB
AM Frequency
Range
Accuracy
0.5Hz to 10kHz
±0.5Hz
AM Waveform 50% duty cycle square wave

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 9
Output Amplitude Frequency Response
(PLEV=4, ATT=0) Freq. Range
(MHz)
25~100
100~4000
4000~6000
Min dBm
>12
>13
>10
Typ. dBm
17
15
14
Max. dBm
<17.5
<17
<16
Attenuator
Relative Attenuation Range
Attenuation Step Size
0dB to 31.5dB
0.5dB
RF output On/OFF When off power is reduced by ~30dB
Reference Frequency
Internal Reference
Frequency
Initial Accuracy
Temperature Stability
Reference Trim Range
Reference Trim Resolution
20.000MHz
± 2ppm (23°C)
±0.5ppm -20°C to +70°C (case temp)
± 10ppm
8-bit, 10-bit after 12/2016
Internal Phase Frequency Detector
(PFD)
Max 140MHz, 125MHz Fractional mode
Min 1 MHz
External Reference
Frequency Range
Input power range
50Ω nominal impedance
10MHz to 210MHz
(max PFD 140MHz integer mode, 125MHz fractional mode)
-10dBm min.
+13dBm max.
(note, external reference as low as -50dBm with reduced phase noise
performance)
External Reference Connector SMA Female 50Ω nominal impedance
Note: Ext input is ac coupled to synthesizer but dc coupled to internal
VCTCXO control circuit. External reference should be disconnected
when using internal reference.
External Reference Return Loss
10MHz
20MHz
50MHz
100MHz
200MHz
10dB typical 50Ω nominal impedance
>24dB
>20dB
>14dB
>6dB
>5dB
EFC
Electronic frequency Control at
external reference input
Pulling range >±10ppm
Voltage ±3V
Input resistance 20kΩ
Frequency response 0Hz~>5kHz

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 10
Interface
USB Micro-B socket
FTDI virtual com port
9600, 8, N,1,N default- Automatically shift to 115200 with GUI
See FTDI for drivers for your computer. Note: The Configuration Manager GUI will automatically
configure the USB port and switch to 115200 baud rate.
USER PORT 3.3V TTL TXD & RXD
(see section 5)
115200,8,N,1,N default
Hirose DF11-8DP-2DS
Mates with Hirose DF11-8DS-2C plug and pre-crimped
wireH3BXT-10112-** (DigiKey)
LSW-1 LIST Mode switch and cable accessory is also available.
External Trigger Input: 3.3V TTL Hi-Z input
Selectable Baud
Rates Either port: 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600,115200, 230400, 460800, 921600
Environmental
Operational full specifications:
No damage functional:
Humidity:
IP rating:
-20⁰C~+70⁰C (case temperature)
-40⁰C~+85⁰C (case temperature)
5%~95% minimal condensation allowed
50 No water protection.
1.4 User interface USB and TTL User Port
The simplest way to set frequencies and configure the 5009 synthesizer module is to use the
USB port with the Valon Technology downloadable V5009CM.exe Configuration Manager (GUI).
The Configuration Manager is a MS Windows compatible graphic user interface. No
programming knowledge is required. The V5009CM will automatically detect a connected 5009
synthesizer and configure the USB port. Multiple 5009 synthesizers can be supported
simultaneously with multiple instances of the V5009CM GUI.
Alternatively, the user can also use our 5000term.exe terminal program, Figure-2, to control and
configure the synthesizer using simple text commands. 5000term.exe will support multiple
5009 synthesizers. If you have more than one 5009 connected, you can simply start a new
instance of 5000term which will connect to the next 5009 synthesizer found. Alternatively, you
can type 5000term -S <serial_num> where <serial_num> is the serial number of the 5009. You
can find the serial number of the 5009 by using the ID or STATus command. There serial
number will appear as shown:
Valon Technology, 5009, 12201623, version 1.0 Build: Jul 4 2019 13:11:04
Any other terminal program should also work well, however 5000term.exe will automatically
detect the 5009 and configure the virtual serial port. A list of available commands appears in
section 4.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 11
Figure 2 5000term.exe terminal program provides a convenient method of direct synthesizer control using simple
commands.
Links to our GUI and terminal program are shown below in the Quick Start section 2.0.
Also available is a direct 3.3V TTL serial interface at the USER PORT. This allows the same
command set to be sent directly to the ARM processor from a host processor without requiring
any USB connection. This port can also be used with the optional external RS-232 to TTL serial
adapter. This 3V TTL/CMOS port is also 5V tolerant. For more information on this port, see
section 5.
The default baud rates are 9600 for the USB port and 115200 for the USER PORT. Either port
can be set to 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200, 230400, 460800, or 921600.
1.5 Setting the Baud Rate
The USB port baud rate can be changed using the baud command as in "baud 115200" which
changes the synthesizer baud rate from the default value of 9600 to 115200. However, once the
baud rate has been change it will be necessary to exit the terminal program using "ctrl C"
because communication will no longer be possible. To reestablish communication, restart the
terminal program with the corresponding baud rate. When using 5000term.exe, the command
would be "5000term -r115200. Note: If you want the baud rate to persist after power down,
use the SAVe command.
1.6 Safety
The 5009 Dual Frequency Synthesizer operates on an external, user provided, low-voltage
power supply. The user is responsible for ensuring the safety of the power source and any
components or equipment connected to it including this one. The 5009 can be connected to any
number of external components and care should be taken to fully understand the safety issues
with these connections. Valon Technology is not responsible for any damage this equipment
causes to any other equipment connected to or used with it in any way.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 12
1.7 Power Connections
Power connections are made to the dc power supply using the supplied Hirose 2-pin plug and
24" pig-tail cable assembly. The optimum input voltage for full performance is 6 Volts at
~600mA maximum (less current if only using one source). The red wire is the positive input and
correct polarity is required. The 5009 is reverse polarity protected and no damage will occur if
reverse connected to dc power supplies of less than 15V. There is no provision for power to be
supplied by USB.
1.8 RoHS (Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances)
The 5009 module is manufactured using all RoHS compliant components and RoHS compliant
printed circuit board processing. The case is manufactured using only aluminum with steel
fasteners.
Valon Technology, LLC certifies that the 5009 is RoHS compliant and conforms with the
requirements of EC directive 2002/95/EC (RoHS) by having no intentional addition of Lead (Pb),
Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), Hexavalent Chromium (Cr), Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB),
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE), and any trace impurities of these substances are below
the threshold limits as specified by the RoHS directive, specifically Cr+6, Hg, Pb, PBB, PBDE do
not exceed 1000 ppm (0.1%) and Cd does not exceed 100 ppm (0.01%).
1.9 FCC Part 15
The 5009 is considered an industrial component and is intended to be incorporated into
customer supplied equipment and is therefore exempt from FCC Part 15.
1.10 Default Frequency Setting
The table in section 2 shows the default settings.
1.11 Cleans Function (Sanitize)
The Cleans function (or sanitize) completely erases all stored user entries including frequency
settings, LIST settings, and Sweep Start and Stop settings and restores the default frequencies.
The Cleans function can be set by selecting Cleans from the Configuration Manager drop down
Synthesizer menu tab, or in the case where no serial interface is available, the input voltage can
be raised to 10.0V for >4 seconds.
1.12 Place of Manufacture
The Valon 5009 printed circuit boards are fabricated and assembled in Northern California. All
components are sourced from U.S.A. vendors and distributors. Final assembly and test is
performed at Valon Technology.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 13
2 Quick-Start Instructions
The 5009 Dual Frequency Synthesizer module has been pre-programmed to 2440MHz for the
Source1 and 2480MHz for source2. Just apply 6Vdc @ ~600mA using the supplied power cable
(red +, black -). Plug it in now! Within 2 seconds, the two blue LED lock lights should be
illuminated (see note at end).
In order to program your desired frequencies or change any other settings you will need to
download the Configuration Manager graphical user interface (GUI) program at:
http://valontechnology.com/5009users/5009.htm. (Please note: The 5009 does not use the
same Configuration Manager as the 5007/5008 synthesizers).
Note: If you don't want to use the GUI and would prefer to use a terminal program, go to
section 4.
1. From the website link, click the V5009CM.exe and save the program to your desktop or any
other folder.
2. Connect the micro-USB cable to your PC and the synthesizer module. Your computer should
automatically start to detect the new USB device. If it does not you may need to install the
FTDI driver. http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm.
3. Launch the V5009CM GUI program by double-clicking the icon. At the start of the launch
process a Windows dialog box will appear that verifies that a Valon 5009
synthesizer is connected. The serial number and virtual com port will be
displayed. More than one 5009 synthesizer may be connected. This dialog
box allows the selection of the desired synthesizer. To control another
synthesizer, start another instance of the configuration manager.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 14
Figure 3 V5009CM dialog box at program launch. Note that two 5009 synthesizers are shown connected with
the option to select either.
4. Once the connection to the synthesizer is established, it is recommended that you select
Synthesizer/Read Registers command before you perform any other operation. That will
update the Configuration Manager with all the initial register values that were programmed
into your synthesizer as it was shipped. Make a note of the serial number for future
reference. You may want to save these original setting by using the File/Save Config
command. This will save your synthesizer's register setting to a disk file.
5. Now you are ready to change your frequency settings using the CM. Once you are satisfied
with your settings use the Synthesizer/ Save to Flash command to store your settings in
non-volatile flash memory.
6. Your 5009 is initialized to use the internal 20MHz reference. You can easily change to an
external reference by clicking the External button in the Reference Select section of the
Configuration Manager. When an external reference has been connected and selected, it
may be necessary to update the synthesizer with a File/Write Registers command.
Note: Supply Voltage and Current 6.0V 600mA. You may experience startup and lock problems
if you are using clip leads to connect the supplied leads to a power supply. The supplied leads
should be connected directly to a low impedance dc power supply.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 15
3 Configuration Manager (CM) graphical user interface (GUI)
The Configuration Manager can be used to quickly and easily set the 5009 dual synthesizer
frequencies and mode of operation. The Configuration Manager is available as a free download
from the Valon Technology Products web site. Install the V5009CM.exe in any directory or on
the desktop.
3.1 Configuration Manager Menu Bar
The CM menu bar provides quick access to the 5009's various operational modes.
File: The File drop-down menu item provides.
File/Load Config; Loads all the previously saved CM configuration parameters from a .VR0 file
to the active CM.
File/Save; Saves the all the current CM configuration parameters to a file.
File/Toggle LogFile; Creates a log5009.txt log file in the directory that the CM is in and captures
all CM commands and responses.
File/Exit; Closes the CM.
Synthesizer:
Synthesizer/Read Registers; Read registers will fill the CM with the all the parameter data of
the connected synthesizer model. Do this when first connecting to a synthesizer model.
Synthesizer/Write Registers; Write registers will transfer all CM data to the synthesizers
module. Use this if you just loaded a configuration from a file and want to update the
synthesizer with the new parameters. WRIT is primarily used by the GUI to send all of the GUI
setting to synthesizer with just one command.
Synthesizer/Reset; Resets the synthesizer to the factory presets.
Synthesizer/Save to Flash; Saves all synthesizer setting to non-volatile flash memory. Next
power up will restore these settings.
Synthesizer/Recall from Flash; Recalls synthesizer settings from flash memory.
Synthesizer/Cleanse; Completely clears all edited synthesizer setting and information including
synthesizer names.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 16
View:
View /Small Font; Smaller screen size and fonts.
View /Large Font; Larger screen size and fonts.
3.2 Configuration Manager Main Page
Clicking Main button on the Configuration Manger allows the user to enter the desired
operating frequencies and output power attenuation levels. The Main page also has a number
of useful secondary functions.
Frequency: Enter the desired operating frequency here. The up and down arrows in the
Frequency window will increment or decrement the displayed frequency by the Step Frequency
amount.
Step Frequency: Amount the Frequency will change with the Frequency up and down arrows.
Offset Frequency: This can be either a positive or negative number and is useful added to the
Frequency value. Use an offset frequency when it’s desired to automatically account for an IF
frequency in a super heterodyne system. For example, if the Offset frequency is 10.7MHz (a
standard FM broadcast receiver IF) and the desired 88.5MHz (KQED), the actually synthesizer
frequency will be 99.2MHz (LO).
Frac/Int: Synthesizer can be operated in the Fractional-N mode or Integer-N mode. The lowest
spur mode will be the Integer-N mode but that will limit the frequency resolution (see
specifications above). The Fractional-N mode provides the finest frequency resolution at the
expense of spurious signals. The recommend mode for most applications is the AUTO mode.
Spur Mode: Low Noise mode will provide the best phase noise at most frequencies. When
operating near integer boundaries of the PLL, the Spur Mode 1 or Spur Mode 2 might provide
improved spurious performance along with a slight degradation in phase noise.
VCO/Div Feedback: (Not currently implemented) the internal PLL feedback is selectable from
either VCO or the internal output frequency divider. Normally, for best phase noise
performance, the VCO mode should be selected.
AM Modulation: AM modulation is available by setting the AM Modulation value to any value
other than 0.0dB. AM Modulation changes the RF output power at the AM frequency rate using
the RF attenuator. For example: If the attenuator is set to 15dB (approximately 0dBm output)
and the AM Modulation set to 10dB, the then attenuator is switched between 10dB and 20dB at
the modulation rate. 0.0dB turns the modulation off.
AM Frequency: The AM frequency range is 0.5Hz to 10kHz. The frequency setting resolution is
1Hz. The AM waveform is 50% duty cycle square wave.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 17
Attenuator: Sets the relative output power level in 0.5dB steps. The default value of 15 will
typically set the output power near 0dBm. Setting the attenuator to 0dB will result in the
maximum output power (~+15dBm).
RF Output: Turns the output buffer amplifier on or off. Setting to Off will drop the output
power by ~30dB. Setting the attenuator to 31.5 and the output Off will set the synthesizer to
minimum output power level of -45dBm to -55dBm depending on frequency.
Synth Power: Off completely disables the synthesizer and the unlocked notification will appear.
Use this Off mode when no synthesizer output is desired.
Reference Source: Internal selects the internal 20MHz VCTCXO. External selects the external
reference frequency.
Reference Frequency: Set to actual internal or external reference frequency. Setting this to
frequency other than the actual internal or external reference frequency will cause
unpredictable results.
Reference Trim: Provides ±10ppm trimming range to the internal VCTCXO with 8-bit resolution.
Reference Trim is useful when it is desirable to "spot" 5009 frequency to an external frequency
when an external reference source is not available. Reference trim can also be used to provide
a fine frequency control. For example, with an output frequency of setting of 1GHz, the 8-bit
reference trim range would be ±10kHz in 78Hz steps.
Ref Doubler: Reference Doubler multiplies the reference frequency by 2 and therefore provides
the Phase Frequency Detector with a higher sample frequency which results in a lower PLL
feedback division ratio. Normally the reference doubler should be enabled unless the reference
frequency is higher than ~25MHz.
Ref Divider: Reference divider divides the reference input to the Phase Frequency Detector by
2. Use the Reference divider when using an external frequency that exceeds 80MHz.
PFD: Phase Detector frequency should normally be set to 40MHz. Best phase noise
performance will be achieved at this setting. It may be desirable to set the PFD to something
other than 40MHz when using an unusual external reference frequency. For example, if an
external 70MHz reference is available the PFD should be set to 35MHz or 70MHz.
Lock: Lock indicators are shown at the bottom of the main page. Normally, the Lock indicator
will be green if the synthesizer is functioning correctly. If the Lock indicator is red, then the
synthesizer is malfunctioning. If an unlocked condition is detected (red Lock indicator) check for
the following conditions:
1) Check that Synth Power is On.
2) Check the Reference source is set to Internal.
3) If Reference source is set to External, then check to see that external reference is connected
and available.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 18
4) Check Reference Frequency setting matches actual internal or external reference frequency
in use.
5) Check PFD frequency setting and actual PFD frequency.
Figure 4 Default Configuration Manager Main page

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 19
Figure 5 Configuration Manager Main page after clicking Synthesizer/Read Registers . The Main page is now refreshed with
the settings from the connected synthesizer module.

Valon Technology 5009 Operations Manual – Version 1.36 Page 20
3.3 Configuration Manager Sweep Page
Controls for operating sweep mode are found on this page. Sweep is implemented by stepping
from the Start Frequency to the Stop Frequency by an incremental Step Frequency at the sweep
step Rate. The Mode has to be set to Sweep for sweep setting to take effect.
Figure 6 Sweep Page
Sweep/Mode; CW, Sweep, or List modes are selected and displayed. This bar is a global
element of the CM and will be shown on the Main and List pages as well.
Sweep/Start Freq; Set sweep start frequency.
Sweep/Stop Freq; Set sweep stop frequency.
Sweep/Step Freq; Set sweep step size.
Sweep/Rate; Set sweep step rate (milliseconds).