Virginia Diodes WR15 Quick start guide

979 Second Street SE, Suite 309
Charlottesville, VA 22902-6172 (USA)
Tel: [phone]; Fax: [phone]
www.vadiodes.com
© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc –All Rights Reserved
Signal Generator Extension Modules
Operational Manual
2020

© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Contents
Section 1 –Introduction...................................................................................................... Pages 2-4
Contents.....................................................................................................................................................Page 2
SGX General Overview..............................................................................................................................Page 3
Safety and Operational Guidelines ............................................................................................................Page 4
Section 2 –Product Views, Block Diagrams and Specifications ...................... Pages 5-8
Major Components and Accessories .........................................................................................................Page 5
Module Details –Front and Rear Panel Connections................................................................................Page 6
SGX Configurations ..................................................................................................................................Page 7
General Specifications and Technical Notes .............................................................................................Page 8
Section 3–Operational Procedures ....................................................................................Page 9
General Operating Procedures..................................................................................................................Page 9
Appendix 1 –SGX Test Port Power...........................................................................Pages 10-17
Test Port Power for WR15 and WR12 (High Power) .............................................................................. Page 10
Test Port Power for WR12 and WR10.....................................................................................................Page 11
Test Port Power for WR9.0 and WR8.0...................................................................................................Page 12
Test Port Power for WR6.5 and WR5.1...................................................................................................Page 13
Test Port Power for WR4.3 and WR3.4...................................................................................................Page 14
Test Port Power for WR2.8 and WR2.2...................................................................................................Page 15
Test Port Power for WR1.5 and WR1.0...................................................................................................Page 16
Test Port Power for WR0.65....................................................................................................................Page 17
User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) Performance.................................................................................... Page 18
Appendix 2 –Cable Loss Characterization .................................................................... Page 19
Cable Loss Characterization Data ...........................................................................................................Page 19
Appendix 3 –SGX Module Drawings .............................................................................Pages 20
Mechanical Drawing –All SGX Modules with Bias Ports ........................................................................Page 20
Addendum –Product Updates and Company Contacts........................................... Page 21
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Introduction
Section
One

© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Signal Generator Extension Modules
Virginia Diodes’ Signal Generator Extension (SGX) modules are used to extend
the performance of microwave signal generators in the frequency range from 50
GHz through 1.1 THz, in frequency bands from WR15 (50-75 GHz) to WR0.65
(1,100-1,500 GHz). These modules offer high test port power with full waveguide
band coverage. Standard features include direct extension include TTL controlled
ON/OFF modulation up to ~ kHz and voltage controlled RF attenuation. Additional
options include and accessories are available. Options include: RF cables,
external micrometer driven variable RF output attenuators, increased amplitude
modulation rates (with an added PIN switch), test port extensions, and horn
antennas for free-space coupling.
SGX Modules vs. AMC Modules
Some SGX Modules were previously marketed by VDI as AMCs (Amplifier / Multiplier Chains). The term SGX now refers to the
full waveguide band standard modules described in this document. The AMC nomenclature is now designated for VDI products
that are signal generator extension modules customized for specific customer applications.
Front and Rear Views of SGX Extension Modules
SGX General Overview
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© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Read all instructions and information in this product manual before connecting a module to its power supply or a signal
generator. Operational procedures must be followed for proper function. If you have questions, contact VDI before
supplying power to or otherwise operating any VDI module.
VDI assumes the customer is familiar with microwave, millimeter wave and VDI products in general. The user and
customer are expected to understand all safety guidelines, health hazards and general advisories that may exist and
are associated with the use of this device. VDI is not responsible for any human hazards that may exist or may occur
while using this device.
RF Drive Limitations
Recommended RF input power specifications are noted on the label on the top of every VDI module. See examples on
Page 8; these values provide optimal performance. Irreversible damage can result if input power exceeds stated
damage threshold.
Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) accepts no liability for damage or injury resulting from or caused by:
•Improper use, disassembly or use for purposes other than those for which the module was designed;
•Use outside common safety, health or general advisories pertaining to microwave, millimeter wave and VDI products;
•Repairs carried out by persons other than VDI or its assigned agents;
•Tampering with or altering power cords or other cabling.
Waveguide Inspection / Test Port Care
•Inspect waveguide flanges prior to making connections.
•Extension module waveguide screws should be torqued in the range 20-50 cNm, greater torque can damage the
interface.
•Making a connection with metal debris between the waveguide flanges can damage the waveguide interface and prevent
repeatable connections.
•If debris is present, clean the flange with pre-dampened TexWipe wipes or swabs (e.g. Part Number TX1065).
•If these are not available, TexWipe cloths lightly dampened with ethanol may be used (e.g. Part Number TX604).
•Replace dust caps when the system is idle.
RF Cable Care
•Use a torque of 90 cNm when making coaxial connections. Avoid sharp bends in cables.
General Operating Practices and Recommendations
•VDI SGX Modules are intended to be used in typical laboratory conditions.
•Use of any attachments and accessories not authorized by VDI or that do not meet VDI’s specifications may void a
module’s limited warranty and could pose a hazard to the operator, or cause lasting damage to the device.
•DC bias cables provided by VDI must be used. Alternative and replacement cables cannot be used unless the DC cables
are adequately rated, properly grounded and authorized for use by VDI.
•Each VDI module is intended for use only with its AC/DC converter as supplied by VDI. Use of other power supplies or
converters could damage the device or injure the operator.
•Disassembling a module can cause lasting damage to components and pose a hazard to the operator.
•Applying liquids (other than the TexWipe wipes / cloths used for cleaning) can cause lasting damage to the module.
•Check with VDI before any measurement connection is attempted beyond those described in this manual or if it may
exceed commonly accepted standards of practice.
Safety and Operational Guidelines
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© 2020 Virginia Diodes, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Rev: 4 April 2020
Major Components and Accessories
VDI Signal Generator Extension (SGX) Modules and typical accessories are shown. The exact equipment delivered and
especially the input limits (see labels) may vary. Contact VDI with RF input limit or general operational questions before powering-
up any module.
Section
Two
SGX
Module
9V DC Power
Supply.
USB Flash
Drive
RF Cable
Included when sold through Keysight Technologies
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Product Views, Block Diagrams and Specifications
Input Drive Label
Labeling at the rear of SGX modules
shows the RF inputs for each product.
Adhering to limits protects the module
from damage.