signal generator extension modules operational …...operating procedures for sgx modules with...

979 Second Street SE, Suite 309

Charlottesville, VA 22902-6172 (USA)

Tel: 434.297.3257; Fax: 434.297.3258

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 ..................................................................................................................................................... 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


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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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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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.


SGX Front Panel *Voltage Bias Ports (+9V) are for use with external VDI components.

.

SGX – Rear Panel

Module Details — Front and Rear Panel Connections

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Amplitude Modulation

(ON/OFF)

DC Power

Input

RF Input High

Frequency

RF

Attenuation

Voltage Bias

Ports

RF Input Low

Frequency LED

(ON/OFF)

Test Port

with Vertical

E-Field

Polarization


These block diagrams represent the typical configurations of a VDI SGX module.

Figure 1: Low Frequency Operation Proper configuration details for Low Frequency operation are shown. A coaxial jumper connection must be used for Low Frequency operation. N1N2 is the multiplication factor this configuration.

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SGX Configurations

Figure 2: High Frequency Operation Proper configuration details for High Frequency operation are shown. Coaxial jumper must be removed for High Frequency operation. N2 is the multiplication factor for this configuration.


*Low Power (Part Number: WR15SGX-SE) is available.

†High Power and Standard Power options are available.

Options List:

• External Micrometer Driven Attenuator (~0-30 dB)

• Horn Antenna

• Waveguide Test Port Extensions (1” and 2” available)

• Increased Amplitude Modulation Rate (up to ~300 MHz)

• Voltage Bias Port (on Front Panel) – for external multiplier connections

General Notes:

• VDI SGX modules include a single-volt DC Power Supply.

• Turn-key, sweepable system, includes TTL modulation (ON/OFF up to ~kHz) and User Controlled Attenuation (UCA), 0-5V, both BNC

• Unwanted harmonic content is better than -20dBc typical.

• SGX modules are configured to allow input signals in two bands. Low Frequency Operation: <20 GHz, ~10 dBm, 2.92mm(f). High Frequency Operation:

removal of jumper allows higher frequency input, ~0 dBm, 2.4mm(f).

• Higher frequency input reduces unwanted harmonic signals within the band, and is preferred.

• SGX modules can be driven by any signal generator that supplies the required frequency band and power.

• Stability of the input is degraded by the harmonic factor N and phase noise by 20log(N).

General Specifications Signal Generator Extension Modules

Description Specification Connector

RF Input Low Freq. (Typical / Damage) 10 dBm ± 3dB / 16 dBm 2.92mm (f)

High Freq. (Typical / Damage) 0 dBm ± 3dB / 6 dBm 2.4mm (f)

RF Output VDI Precision Flange Contact VDI for Details UG-387/UM

AC Inputs Single-Volt Power Supply (+9V/4A)

100-240VAC, 3.5A, 50-60Hz

U.S. or E.U.

Amplitude Modulation

TTL / AM Input (ON / OFF) 0 - 5 V, up to ~kHz BNC (f)

RF Attenuation User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) 0V-full power, 5V-off BNC (f).

Voltage Bias Port -- +9V LEMO 00

Operating Temperature

Typical / Recommended 25°C / 20-30°C --

Maximum Weight -- 4.0 Lbs. (1.81 Kg.) --

Dimensions Typical (Length x Width x Height) 8” x 5” x 3” --

Summary of Performance Specifications for Signal Generator Extension Modules

Waveguide Band (GHz) WR15 WR12† WR10 WR9.0 WR8.0 WR6.5 WR5.1

Start Frequency (GHz) 50 60 75 82 90 110 140

Stop Frequency (GHz) 75 90 110 125 140 170 220

Output Power (dBm, typ.) 20 19* 19 16 14 14 9 8 4

Output Power (dBm, min.) 17 16* 15 13 10 10 6 3 0

Waveguide Band (GHz) WR4.3 WR3.4 WM710 (WR2.8)

WM570 (WR2.2)

WM380 (WR1.5)

WM250 (WR1.0)

WM164 (WR0.65)

Start Frequency (GHz) 170 220 260 330 500 750 1100

Stop Frequency (GHz) 260 330 400 500 750 1100 1500

Output Power (dBm, typ.) 2 -2 -6 -10 -21 -23 -25

Output Power (dBm, min.) -3 -6 -12 -16 -27 -33 -

General Specifications and Technical Notes

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RF Drive Labels Follow the RF input listed on

extension module labels to avoid

damage. Values shown here are only

examples.


The safety and operational guidelines are listed on page 4. VDI recommends the following general operating procedures for using

these products with optimal performance.

Turn-On Procedure

1) With the RF input power turned ‘OFF’, make all necessary connections (i.e. RF cable, AC cable, DC cable). 2) Set signal generator to desired frequency and appropriate power level. 3) Turn ‘ON’ the RF input power from signal generator.

a. For Amplitude Modulation (ON/OFF): use TTL Mod. port (0-5V, up to ~ kHz) b. For RF Attenuation: use UCA port (0V = no attenuation, 5V = full attenuation).

Turn-Off Procedure 1) Turn ‘OFF’ the RF input power from signal generator.

2) It is now safe to turn ‘OFF’ and/or disconnect all other equipment on user test bench.

Operating Procedures for SGX Modules with Voltage Bias Option

VDI multipliers may be purchased to extend frequency coverage up to 1.1THz. SGX modules are shipped with Voltage Bias Ports on the front panel to allow for external multiplier connections. The following guidelines must be followed when using the additional multipliers with these SGX modules.

• NEVER disconnect Bias Boxes from external multipliers.

• Turn ‘OFF’ RF power and disconnect DC power before connecting/disconnecting an external multiplier from the Voltage

Bias Port on front panel of the SGX (see panel closer-up, Page 6).

• Cover the Voltage Bias Ports on the front panel of the SGX if not in use.

Front / Rear Views of SGX Module with Voltage Bias Ports and External Multipliers (two with attached Bias Boxes)

General Operating Procedures Section Three

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Typical Test Port Power plots are provided on the following pages, starting with WR15 SGX and ending with WR1.0 SGX on Page

17. User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) plots are included on Page 18.

Test Port Power for WR15 and WR12 (High Power)

SGX Test Port Power Appendix

One

App-1

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0

5

10

15

20

25

30

50 55 60 65 70 75

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR15

Typical

Minimum

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

60 65 70 75 80 85 90

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR12 (High Power)

Typical

Minimum


SGX Performance — Continued

Test Port Power for WR12 and WR10

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0

5

10

15

20

25

75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR10

Typical

Minimum

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

60 65 70 75 80 85 90

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR12

Typical

Minimum



Test Port Power for WR9.0 and WR8.0

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0

5

10

15

20

25

80 87.5 95 102.5 110 117.5 125

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR9.0

Typical

Minimum

0

5

10

15

20

90 100 110 120 130 140

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR8.0

Typical

Minimum




App-1

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-5

0

5

10

15

140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR5.1

Typical

Minimum

-5

0

5

10

15

110 120 130 140 150 160 170

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR6.5

Typical

Minimum



App-1

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-15

-10

-5

0

5

220 230 240 250 260 270 280 290 300 310 320 330

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR3.4

Typical

Minimum

-15

-10

-5

0

5

10

170 185 200 215 230 245 260

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR4.3

Typical

Minimum




App-1

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-20

-15

-10

-5

0

5

260 280 300 320 340 360 380 400

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR2.8

Typical

Minimum

-30

-25

-20

-15

-10

-5

0

330 340 350 360 370 380 390 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 480 490 500

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR2.2

Typical

Minimum




App-1

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-40

-30

-20

-10

0

500 525 550 575 600 625 650 675 700 725 750

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR1.5

Typical

Minimum

-50

-40

-30

-20

-10

0

750 800 850 900 950 1000 1050 1100

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WR1.0

Typical

Minimum



-50

-40

-30

-20

-10

0

1100 1150 1200 1250 1300 1350 1400 1450 1500

Ou

tpu

t (d

Bm

)

Frequency (GHz)

WM164 (1.1 to 1.5 THz)

Typical

App-1

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Test Port Power for WR0.65


SGX – User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) Performance

Note: The UCA voltage reduces the module’s output power. The data presented in these graphs was measured by VDI under specific test

conditions. These graphs are intended to be used as examples to show a module’s nonlinearity and frequency dependence. The exact shape of

the curves will vary significantly depending on the measurement conditions, including operating temperature, modulation rate, duty cycle,

and load impedance. The performance is also unique to the frequency band and specific serial number of the module. Finally, it should be

noted that for large attenuation values the multipliers can become under-pumped and may generate undesired harmonics at increased levels.

User Controlled Attenuation (UCA) Performance

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0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 1 2 3 4 5

% o

f M

axim

um

Ou

tpu

t P

ow

er

UCA Voltage (V)

Sample UCA Performance

Lower Band Edge

Center Band

Upper Band Edge

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 1 2 3 4 5

% o

f M

axim

um

Ou

tpu

t P

ow

er

UCA Voltage (V)

Sample UCA Performance

Lower Band Edge

Center Band Edge

Upper Band Edge


Cable Loss Characterization Data

Cable Loss Characterization

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

9 14 19 24 29 34 39 44

Cab

le A

tte

nu

ati

on

(d

B)

Frequency (GHz)

Accutest 150 Attenuation Data1.2M

2M

3M

4M

5M

Figure 3: Typical insertion loss of Accutest 150 (RF Cable) with respect to frequency. This chart can be used to estimate cable losses in

your system.

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Appendix Two


Mechanical Drawing – All SGX Modules

App-3

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Appendix Three


Virginia Diodes’ Signal Generator Extension (SGX) modules provide high

performance frequency extension of microwave signal generators into the

THz range. VDI SGX modules offer full waveguide band coverage and are

available from WR15 (50-75 GHz) to WR0.65 (1,100-1,500 GHz). Additional

bands are under development. VDI modules combine high test port power

with low phase noise to offer exceptional performance.

The Virginia Diodes staff of engineering and physical science professionals

works to continually improve our products. We also depend upon feedback

from colleagues and customers. Ideas to simplify extension module

operations, improve performance or add capabilities are always welcome. Be

certain that Virginia Diodes has your latest contact details including a phone

number and an email address to receive update advisories.

Contact VDI:

Virginia Diodes, Inc. Web: http://www.vadiodes.com

Email: [email protected] Telephone: 434.297.3257

Addendum — Product Updates and Company Contacts

Addendum

Pg-21

http://www.vadiodes.com/

mailto:[email protected]

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