Instrument Function > RF Block > RF Level > NRP-Z Level Control > NRP-Z Level Control Settings
NRP-Z Level Control Settings
 

To access the dialog for configuring the level control settings, perform one of the following:

  • Select "RF > config... > RF Level > NRP-Z Level Control".
  • Press the MENU key and select "RF > RF Level > NRP-Z Level Control".
 

The dialog contains all parameters for configuring the settings for level control test setup.

The remote commands required to define these settings are described in "SOURce:POWer Subsystem"

Sensor

Selects the R&S NRP-Z power sensor for power control.

Note: In remote control, the sensors are set up using the SENSe commands. The remote measurement is triggered by the READ query which also provides the measurement results.
The software version of the connected power sensor can be retrieved by means of the remote control command :SENS:POW:TYPE?.
Use the "Setup >" NRP-Z Info/Update dialog to update the sensor software.

Remote command: 
 
State

Activates power control using the selected sensor.

The control loop periodically adjusts the generator output. After switching off, the running loop is completed.

Remote command: 
 
Measured Level

Indicates the current reading of the sensor.

Zero - Power Sensors

Activates the auto zero function.

Zeroing calibrates the external power sensor by adjusting its reading at zero signal power. For this purpose, the RF power source must be switched off or disconnected from the sensor. If a Rohde & Schwarz power sensor receives an input power during the zeroing process, it aborts zeroing and generates an error message. Zeroing takes a few seconds, depending on the sensor model. Refer to the documentation of your power sensor for more information.

Tips for zeroing

When to perform zeroing:
  • During warm up after switching on or connecting the instrument
  • After a substantial change of the ambient temperature
  • After fastening the power sensor module to an RF connector at high temperature
  • After several hours of operation
  • When low-power signals are to be measured, e.g. less than 10 dB above the lower measurement limit.
  • Switch off the RF power source for zeroing, but do not disconnect it from the power sensor. This proceeding keeps the thermal equilibrium, and the zeroing process also compensates the noise that superimposes the measured signal (e.g. from a broadband amplifier).
Remote command: 
 
Target Level

Specifies the nominal level expected at the input of the sensor. The signal generator adjusts the output power accordingly, in order to meet the target value at the sensor input, and thus the power required at the DUT.

Remote command: 
 
Limit - RF Level

Sets an upper limit for the RF output power.

You can use it to protect your DUT from damage due to high input power. If you enter an RF level above this value, the instrument limits the output power to this specified value, and generates a warning message.

However, the level indication in the status bar is not affected.

Note: The value is not affected by an instrument preset (PRESET key), *RST and the "Save/Recall" function. It is influenced only by the "Factory Preset" and the factory value is equal to maximum level.

Remote command: 
 
Catch Range +/-

Sets the capture range of the control system.

Within the range:

Target Level +/- Catch Range

the power control locks and tries to achieve the target level. Readings outside the range are not considered.

Remote command: 
 
Delay Time

Defines a waiting period between the level adjustment of the generator and the next measurement of the power sensor.

With this parameter, you compensate any dead times in the controlled system.

Remote command: 
 
Use Peak Power

Activates control by means of the peak power values, provided the power sensor supports this function. Otherwise, the dialog does not show this parameter.

Remote command: 
 
Use SParameter - Power Sensors

Activates the use of the S-Parameter correction data of the connected power sensor. For sensors with attenuator this checkbox is automatically checked.

Refer to the manual of the connected R&S NRP-Zxx power sensor for a description on how to use the SParameter table.

Remote command: 
 

 


Imprint | Statement of Privacy | Terms & Conditions© 2016 ROHDE & SCHWARZ