OML HP 8510 Millimeter Wave Application Note.

Using the OML Millimeter Wave Vector Network Analyzer Frequency Extension Modules with the HP 8510 Vector Network Analyzer

OLESON MICROWAVE LABS (OML) has developed a series of millimeter wave Frequency Extension Modules (Modules) designed to extend the frequency coverage of the Agilent 8510 Vector Network Analyzer (VNA).   These Modules cover the popular waveguide bands ranging from 33 to 325 GHz.

OML has been piecing together, from various sources, a basic understanding of the Agilent 8510 VNA system aimed at allowing a user to expand the Agilent 8510’s millimeter wave capabilities beyond those that Agilent has provided.   Agilent configures its typical system software to use certain Agilent test instruments when making a given measurement.   The software routine, when run, checks to see if these instruments are connected to the HPIB interconnect.   It is possible to configure one’s own system, using the appropriate Agilent instruments, and save that configuration file for later use.

OML, with technical assistance from Agilent and others, has developed a method for using the Agilent 8510 VNA with test systems other than those manufactured by Agilent.   For our purposes, only the use of the Agilent 8510 with millimeter wave test systems will be examined.   A functional millimeter wave system requires the VNA (Agilent 8510), two sources, a test set interface and the millimeter wave test sets.   A procedure for manually entering the necessary setup steps via the Agilent 8510 front panel controls is available in the OML document, “User Control of the Agilent 8510 for Millimeter Wave Configurations”.   The following describes alternative system configurations that have been successfully used.

Necessary HP 8510 Equipment

First, only Agilent 8510C, or latest revision Agilent 8510B VNA should be used for this effort.   All revisions of the Agilent 8510C operating system have been found to support millimeter wave measurements.   A 8510A is upgradable to a 8510C (LCD), (Agilent # 85103E). A 8510B can be upgraded to a 8510C (LCD) (Agilent # 85103F). The 8510C (CRT) can be upgraded to a 8510C (LCD) (Agilent # 85103G).  The minimum acceptable Agilent 8510B Operating System Revision is Rev. B.05.13.   Agilent was shipping Agilent 8510B Rev. B.05.14 software free of charge in the U.S.   Some hardware upgrades may be necessary to your analyzer to use Rev. B.05.14.   The Agilent 11575F Performance Upgrade package upgrades an Agilent 8510B from any revision operating system to 8510B Rev. B.06.54, the latest and most desirable revision available.   The Upgrade includes all necessary software and hardware.

Second, the system requires two sources, one for L.O. and one for R.F.   The Agilent 8510 millimeter system software requires that at least one of the sources must be a synthesizer.   Based on OML’s experience, the use of one synthesizer and one sweeper (Agilent 8350B) has been found to be less than satisfactory 1.   It is possible to use an Agilent 8340 series/8350B or Agilent 8360 series/8350B combination.   However, care should be exercised in inspecting the test data for discontinuities caused by momentary loss of lock of the sweeper due to spurious signals crossing through the phase lock aperture 2.   Agilent no longer offers or supports a synthesizer and sweeper based millimeter wave system and has discontinued the manufacture of the Agilent 8350B plug-ins required for an Agilent 8510 millimeter wave system.  Agilent is discontinuing the 8510 firmware driver for the 8350 in 2002.   See “Source Notes” 1 at the end of this paper for a list of the Agilent 8350 plug-ins with comments concerning the usability of each.   OML strongly recommends against the use of a synthesizer/sweeper combination.

Synthesizer software driver capability held over in the current design from earlier Agilent 8510 millimeter wave systems allows the use of two Agilent 8341A/B  20 GHz synthesizers or two Agilent 8340A/B  26 GHz synthesizers or a combination of Agilent 8340/8341 (internal modifications to older serial number synthesizers may be necessary for use with the Agilent 8510).  Agilent plans to discontinue the 8510 firmware driver for the 8340/8341 in 2005.   However, Agilent now recommends, sells and supports a two synthesizer system using Agilent 8360 synthesizers.   Agilent has indicated that the Agilent 8510 firmware will not support the use of a combination of a Agilent 8340/41 and a Agilent 8360 synthesizer.   There is apparently a timing problem related to lockup and stepping time differences between the Agilent 8340 and the Agilent 8360 designs.   The Agilent 8510 software allows operation only with Agilent 8360 series or Agilent 8340 series synthesizers and/or the Agilent 8350B series sweepers.   Other Agilent synthesizers or sweepers and other manufacturer sources are not useable with the Agilent 8510.

The OML WR-10 and lower T/R Modules and OML WR-08 and higher T/R Modules equipped with the OML "x2" Option can be used with a 20 GHz capable Agilent 8341A/B or Agilent 8360 as a R.F. source.   The basic OML WR-08 and WR-04 T/R Modules require the use of  the 26.5 GHz capable Agilent 8340A/B or Agilent 8360 as a R.F. source.   Basic OML WR-06, 05 and WR-03 T/R Modules require the use of a 40 GHz or higher capability Agilent 8360 as a R.F. source.

The Agilent 8340A/B, 8341A/B synthesizers and most Agilent 8350B sweeper plug-ins1 cause some degradation to the test data because of the interruption of the output signal at the frequency sweep switch points and insufficiently suppressed subharmonics (spurs) 3.   The spur problem can be addressed by using a pair of back-to-back waveguide to coax transitions, of the appropriate waveguide band, as a high pass filter.   The following chart indicates the waveguide high pass filter which can be used for each millimeter wave band.   Alternatively, the user can employ a suitable bandpass filter (BPF) whose low frequency cutoff is just below the lower end of the R.F. drive frequency range.   If a BPF is used, attention should be focused on the passband ripple which should be no more than 1 dB.   In the following chart item: 1) represents the millimeter wave band,  2) is the R.F. drive frequency (GHz) range for which lower subharmonics should be filtered,  3) is the waveguide which can be used as a high pass filter,  and 4) is the cutoff frequency (GHz) for that waveguide.

Waveguide High Pass Filters for R.F. Subharmonics (needed when using HP 8340/41)

1) Band

WR-22

WR-19

WR-15

WR-12

WR-10

WR-08L

WR-08H

2) Freq.

11-16.7

TBD

10-05

12-18

12.5-18.3

15-20

20-23.3

3) W/G

 WR-62

WR-62

WR-51

WR-51

WR-42

WR-34

4) Cutoff

 9.49

9.49

11.54

11.54

14.08

17.28

Third, the system needs an interface between the Agilent 8510 and the millimeter wave test set Modules, such as a Agilent 85105A millimeter wave test set controller.   This unit includes all the necessary switching and amplifiers to provide the capability for bi-directional, full S parameter testing.   There are four versions of the controller available and one simplistic IF interface approach that can be used.   These versions of the controller are formal options offered by Agilent.  Please consult the 85105A Options list so that the proper version and option are correctly identified when ordering.

The standard Agilent 85105A has an IF input frequency of 20 MHz with 30 dB internal gain, a LO frequency range of 2 GHz to 8 GHz @ +20 dBm min. and a RF frequency range of 10 GHz to 20 GHz @ +20 dBm min. It contains power supplies suitable only for the Agilent x85104A modules.   It cannot be used with OML MMW modules because its LO frequency is to low too support the OML LO frequency plan.   The Agilent 85105A is supplied with coax cables for connecting the millimeter wave module(s) IF outputs to the Agilent 85105A.   No other cables are supplied.   There are Options 04 and 54 available with the Agilent 85105A which move all of the front panel interfaces to the rear panel.   This option is specifically for rack mounted systems.   The interface between an Agilent 85105A Option 04 or 54 to OML MMW modules has not yet been developed. Contact OML for details.

The Agilent 85105A Option K10 was designed by Agilent specifically for use with the OML modules.   The LO and RF output levels are correct for OML MMW modules and no internal LO and RF drive level optimization of the modules is required.   It also has an IF input frequency of 20 MHz, however it does not have any internal gain.   The IF gains of OML modules ordered for use with the Agilent 85105A-K10 are internally optimized.   The RF frequency range is extended to 50 GHz (requires a 50 GHz synthesizer). This extended frequency coverage permits OML 90 to 325 GHz modules to be used without the "x2" Option.   The K10 front panel is set up for interface to the OML MMW modules without any adapters.   The Agilent 85105A-K10 is complete with the same IF cables as are provided with the Agilent 85105A and power cables that are compatible with OML modules.   Agilent has available a RF and LO cabling kit for use with the OML modules or the user can supply his own cables.   OML recommends Micro-Coax Model # UFA210B-1-0480-000000 UTIFLEX cables.   The Agilent 85105A-K10 contains power supplies suitable only for the OML modules and thus cannot be used with Agilent modules.  The Agilent 85105A-K10 can not be used  with the OML "x2" Option.  Contact OML for details.  [Setup Diagram for the 85105A-K10]

The new Agilent 85105A Option H01 is a revised 85105A that can be used with either Agilent or OML millimeter wave modules and is less expensive than the Agilent 85105A-K10.   It has the same IF input frequency of 20 MHz with 30 dB internal gain.   The IF gains of OML modules ordered for use with the Agilent 85105A-H01 are internally optimized.   The Agilent 85105A-H01 LO outputs have been modified to cover 2 GHz to 20 GHz @ +20 dBm minimum and its RF outputs are still 10 GHz to 20 GHz @ +20 dBm minimum.   These LO and RF output levels are higher than required for OML MMW modules..   The Agilent 85105A-H01 is complete with the required two front panel adapters (85105A Interface Adapter, P/N 85105A-60015, see discussion in the OML Application Note  "Modifying the Agilent (HP) 85105A for use with OML Millimeter Wave VNA Modules").   Also included with the H01 are four double shielded coax cables for the IF interface complete with the required BNC to SMA adapters.   Again OML recommends the use of Micro-Coax Model # UFA210B-1-0480-000000 UTIFLEX cables for RF and LO interconnection cables, four of which are required.   These cables have been proven to be very high quality and are phase stable which is of special importance for the LO cables.   The Agilent 85105A-H01 internal power supplies are suitable only for the Agilent x85104A modules.   An external +12 VDC 4 Amp minimum power supply is required to power the OML modules.   The OML millimeter wave modules are supplied with power cables set up for use with an external power supply. The interface between an 85105A-H01 Option 04 or 54 (rear panel interface) to OML MMW modules has not yet been developed.  Contact OML or Agilent for details.  [Setup Diagram for the 85105A-H01 and the modified 85105A]

The user modified Agilent 85105A has an IF input frequency of 20 MHz with 30 dB internal gain.   The IF gains of OML modules ordered for use with the modified Agilent 85105A are internally optimized.   The LO frequency range is expanded to cover 2 GHz to 20 GHz @ +20 dBm minimum with the same RF frequency range of 10 GHz to 20 GHz @ +20 dBm minimum.   It is suitable for driving OML 33 to 110 GHz and the OML 90 to 325 GHz modules that include the OML "x2" Option.   LO and RF drive level optimization is accomplished internally in OML modules ordered for use with the modified Agilent 85105A.   The Agilent 85105A is supplied with coax cables for connecting the millimeter wave module(s) IF outputs to the Agilent 85105A.   The Agilent 85105A modifications necessary to achieve the expanded LO frequency range are simple and inexpensive.   Details can be found in the OML Application Note "Modifying the Agilent (HP) 85105A for use with OML Millimeter Wave VNA Modules."   Here again OML recommends the use of Micro-Coax Model # UFA210B-1-0480-000000 UTIFLEX cables for RF and LO interconnection cables, four are required.   These cables have been proven to be very high quality and are phase stable which is of special importance for the LO cables.   As the internal power supplies are suitable for only the Agilent x85104A modules, an external +12 VDC 4 Amp power supply is required to operate the OML modules.   The OML millimeter wave modules are supplied with power cables set up for use with an external power supply.   Properly modified, the 85105A can be used to drive either Agilent or OML MMW modules.   All three Agilent 85105A versions share the same outline.    The interface between an 85105A Option 04 or 54 (rear panel interface) to OML MMW modules has not yet been developed.  Contact Agilent or OML for details.  [Setup Diagram for the 85105A-H01 and the modified 85105A]

Agilent developed the 08510-60105 IF Interface Cable for use in the old 85104A millimeter wave system which some customers are still using.   This Cable is still available and when used in place of the 85105 it represents an inexpensive one path two port approach to millimeter wave vector analysis using OML T/R and T modules.   The IF is 20 MHz and all necessary IF gain is provided in the OML modules.   The LO frequency range required is 8 GHz to 20 GHz @ +10 dBm and the RF frequency range is 10 GHz to 20 GHz @ +10 dBm.   The LO and RF levels given are those provided by the least expensive 8360 synthesizers.   A +12 VDC 4 Amp minimum power supply is required for the OML modules.   The OML millimeter wave modules are supplied with power cables set up for use with an external power supply. [Setup Diagram for using the 08510-60105 I.F. Interface Cable]

Fourth, calibration kits, one for each band to be operated, are required.   The following vendors are possible sources of calibration kits and components:

OML HP Maury Flann Aerowave
  Kits   Kits   Kits   Kits     Components
WR-22 WR-22 WR-22 WR-22 WR-22
WR-19 (N/A) WR-19 WR-19 WR-19 WR-19
WR-15 WR-15 WR-15 WR-15 WR-15
WR-12 WR-12 ? WR-12 WR-12
WR-10 WR-10 WR-10 WR-10 WR-10
WR-08 WR-08
WR-06
WR-05
WR-04 (Future)
WR-03
Cal. Data Provided:
Hard Copy
User Entered
Disk/Tape Disk/Tape Disk User Derived

The routines built into the Agilent 8510 will allow the user to characterize his own set of components as standards.   An Agilent 9122C disk drive (or appropriate Agilent hard drive) is required to use disk media with an Agilent 8510B.

Necessary OML Millimeter Test Sets

OML has available the following millimeter wave Frequency Extension Modules:  Q Band / WR-22,  V Band / WR-15,  E Band / WR-12,  W Band / WR-10,  F Band / WR-08,  D Band / WR-06,  G Band / WR-05  and H Band / WR-03 (Y Band / WR-04 is under development).   Expanded bands are possible subject to waveguide frequency limits.   The OML millimeter wave Modules can be used with the Agilent 8510 without any other intermediate test set or millimeter wave controller (see “Third, ....controller, above).   This feature offers more dynamic range than does the Agilent millimeter wave solution, and is significantly less expensive.   There are two types of OML Modules that can be used to construct a millimeter wave test system.   A “T/R” Module contains an R.F. multiplier for a signal source, a reference signal down-converter, and a test signal downconverter, all incorporated with a dual, high directivity, directional coupler.   The “T” Module contains a single test signal downconverter with a precision, ultra-flat, low VSWR attenuator in place of the directional coupler used in the T/R Module.

The least expensive test set to configure would enable the user to make uni-directional measurements, measuring the reflection and transmission properties of a “device under test” (DUT), yielding two of the four traditional S parameters, S11 and S21.   The DUT can then be physically turned around to measure the other two S parameters, S22 and S12.   This type of test set consists of a T/R Module and a T Module.   The T/R reference signal downconverter provides the system reference I.F. signal for ratioed measurements.   The T/R test signal downconverter provides the reflected signal I.F. for reflection coefficient measurements.   The T Module test signal downconverter provides the transmission signal I.F. signal for insertion gain/loss measurements.

A more expensive, bi-directional test system, capable of measuring all four S parameters, can be configured using two T/R Modules.   In this case, the T Module is replaced by a second T/R Module.   The test signal downconverter of the second T/R Module is used as a transmission signal downconverter.   To reverse the signal path, the R.F. synthesizer signal is transferred to the second T/R Module’s multiplier and its reference signal downconverter output is used as the system reference signal by the Agilent 8510.   The test signal downconverter of the second T/R Module is used as a reflection signal downconverter.   The test signal downconverter in the first T/R Module then becomes the transmission signal downconverter.   An Agilent 85105A Option H01 or Option K10 or a modified 85105A will support the bi-directional test system.   The Agilent I.F. Interface Cable will also support this type of system.   However, the bi-directional system using the I.F. Interface cable is complicated by the fact that there is no automatic method easily available for switching the R.F. signal from T/R Module #1 to T/R Module #2.

A block diagram of the two types of Modules used in the OML Millimeter Wave VNA Test Set Modules is shown below.

The Modules for the OML Millimeter Wave VNA test systems are designed to be more efficient than those previously available.   All of the amplifiers necessary for the operation of the OML Modules are integral to each Module.   The downconverters operate with higher L.O. frequencies than do competing designs.   The use of higher L.O. frequencies allows the harmonic mixers in the downconverters to function at a correspondingly lower L.O. multiple which significantly improves conversion loss and reduces the number of spurious responses.   These mixers are multiple diode balanced mixers and receive L.O. power, set to the optimum level, from a built-in L.O. limiting amplifier.   The performance of the downconverters is further enhanced by a 1.7 dB noise figure I.F. amplifier.   Because of this higher level of integration, the OML Millimeter Wave VNA Test Set Modules do not require an external “controller” unit to function.   The RF synthesizer signal, at the proper subharmonic for the chosen band, is supplied directly to the OML Millimeter Wave Module without further need for external amplification.   The Module multiplier’s average output power is typically several dB higher than is available from competing designs.   Hundreds of OML and customer tests of the OML Millimeter Wave Test Sets have demonstrated average dynamic range more than 10 dB better than competing units.   The Modules operate from a customer supplied +12 or +15 VDC power source and are engineered to run continuously in a typical laboratory environment (+20 to +30 deg. C.).   OML has delivered over 350 Modules for millimeter wave VNA test sets.   OML supports existing customer owned units, in and out of warranty.   OML will also quote special new designs as needed to address advanced customer applications.

The following documents will aid the user in operating the Agilent 8510 in a millimeter wave test configuration:

1) Agilent Product Note 8510-5A,  Network Analysis, “Specifying calibration standards for the Agilent 8510 network analyzer”,  2) Agilent Product Note 8510-8A,  Network Analysis, “Applying the Agilent 8510 TRL calibration for non-coaxial measurements”,  3) Agilent Product Note 8510-12.  Millimeter-Wave Measurements, “Using the Agilent 8510 Network Analyzer”,  4) "Agilent 85105A K10 Sub-millimeter Controller" hardware reference manual part number 85105-90020, is included with the Agilent 85105A K10 when purchased

Notes:

1)  Source Notes:   The swept sources usable with the various Agilent 8510’s are listed as found in Agilent literature.   Apparently upgraded firmware or software will allow any of the listed sources to be used with any Agilent 8510B.

  HP 8510A HP 8510B HP 8510C
8350B with appropriate plug-in (see below)   X X X
8340A/B   8341A/B   X X X
8360 series   1990 or newer X X

Agilent no longer recommends or supports the use of a synthesizer/sweeper combination.   The 8350 product line is no longer available from Agilent.   The following data is based on published Agilent product notes and specifications and is included for history's sake.   OML's comments are added (x).

Model # Frequency Source Millimeter Accessories Recommended
Range Type L.O. (a) Needed (b) by OML
83550A 8-20 GHz fundamental to WR-10 none yes
83595C to 26.5 GHz multiplier/good filter to WR-08 (a) amp ? yes (?)
83592C to 20 GHz multiplier/good filter to WR-10 amp yes (?)
83592B to 20 GHz multiplier/good filter to WR-10 amp yes (?)
83599A to 50 GHz multiplier/some filter to WR-05 amp not verified (c)
83598A to 50 GHz multiplier/some filter to WR-05 amp not verified (c)
83597A/B to 40 GHz multiplier/some filter to WR-05 amp not verified (c)
83596A/B to 40 GHz multiplier/some filter to WR-05 amp not verified (c)
83594A to 26.5 GHz multiplier/poor filter to WR-08 (a) amp not verified (c)
83595A to 26.5 GHz multiplier/poor filter to WR-08 (a) amp not verified (c)
83592A to 20 GHz multiplier/poor filter to WR-10 amp not verified (c)
83590A to 20 GHz multiplier/poor filter to WR-10 amp not verified (c)
(a) System performance will be adversely affected by phase noise degradation above 110 GHz.
(b) Observations based on OML's examination of the data.
(c) Agilent specifications are unclear as to harmonic & spurious levels and the these plug-ins are not mentioned in HP Millimeter Wave VNA Application Notes.
(d) The above data was derived from an examination of the data contained in Agilent Publication # 5091-2509E,  Agilent 8350B Sweeper   10 MHz to 50 GHz  “A Powerful General Purpose Source for your Microwave Measurements”,  8/92.

2)   When an Agilent 8350B is used as a L.O. source in combination with a synthesizer as an R.F. source, the Agilent 8350B is phase locked so that the final L.O. signal (as multiplied in the harmonic mixer) will faithfully track the final R.F. signal (as multiplied in the R.F. multiplier chain).   The phase locking error signal is generated by the Agilent 8510 (the Agilent 8517A/B Option H06 may have this capability, consult Agilent).   In the process of harmonic mixing and signal multiplying various spurious responses are generated.   These spurious responses can cross through the Agilent 8510 I.F. bandwidth causing loss of the desired phase lock.   At that point of spurious signal crossing through the I.F. response, the Agilent 8510 sweep may momentarily be interrupted until the Agilent 8510 logic circuitry resumes swept with the proper phase lock.   A small disruption may be noted in the data presented at that point.   This an infrequent normal occurrence that may or may not take place depending on the frequency band being sweep and the number of data points selected.   This phenomenon can occur when using a totally Agilent millimeter wave VNA system or when using an OML/Agilent millimeter wave system.   The user should watch for such possible “glitches” in his data.   These “glitches” do not invalidate all of the data taken, only the one data point taken where the spurious crossover occurs.

 

3)   In the earlier Agilent millimeter wave systems, Agilent always used the Agilent 8350B source as the L.O. source.   OML’s experience indicates that it might be advantageous to consider doing otherwise.   When operating with a combination of different model Agilent sources (synthesizers/sweepers), the source with the best spurious and subharmonic specifications should be used as the L.O. source if frequency coverage of that source so allows.   Spurious and subharmonic signals entering the down conversion harmonic mixers through the L.O. port can create undesirable spurious responses in the test data.   The OML comments about the Agilent 8350B found under “Source Type” 1, are an indicator of the potential problems that can be experienced with sweeper plug-ins with marginal filtering.   For example: in a combination of an Agilent 8340 A/B synthesizer (26 GHz, -25 dBc subharmonics) and Agilent 8350B sweeper, if the plug-in is an Agilent 83598A (50 GHz, -45 dBc subharmonics) then Agilent 8350B/83598A should be used as the L.O. source.   All Agilent 8340 series synthesizers are specified at -25 dBc for subharmonics.   All 8360 series synthesizers are specified at -50 dBc for subharmonics.

 

4)   Agilent has featured the use of the OML millimeter wave Frequency Extension Modules with the Agilent 8510 in the October 1998 issue of the “Agilent 8510/8720 News”.

 

5)   The current least expensive, Agilent recommended, millimeter wave system capable of supporting the OML Modules includes the following: (based on the 9-01 Agilent U.S. prices).

Agilent 8510C  Vector Network Analyzer
Agilent 85105A-K10  Test Set
Agilent 83621B  20 GHz Synthesizer (LO)
Agilent 83621B  20 GHz Synthesizer (RF), requires OML "x2" Option for coverage above 110 GHz.
Misc. accessories (power supplies, cables, etc.)

6)   The following points contain some suggestions and cover some of the limitations faced by the user who currently has an older Agilent 8510 system components:

A)  Use of an Agilent 8350B sweeper as the in conjunction with a synthesizer is not recommended nor currently supported by Agilent.   The Agilent 8350 product line is no longer available from Agilent.

B)  Recent information indicates that the Agilent 8510A can only be upgraded to an Agilent 8510C.   The same information indicates that Agilent is currently offering to upgrade the Agilent 8510B to an Agilent 85105C.   An Agilent 8510B must have software version 5.14 or later to be useable for millimeter wave.

C)  The Agilent 8340 series synthesizers do not go high enough in frequency to be used as a R.F. source operation above 140 GHz.   This product is no longer available from Agilent.   Agilent indicates that the Agilent 8340 series synthesizers can not be used in conjunction with the Agilent 8360 series synthesizers because of non-compatible timing issues between the two models.

D)  The Agilent 85105A millimeter wave system controller will not allow L.O. frequencies above 8 GHz.   The OML Modules require L.O. frequencies up to 20 GHz.   OML has published a modification to the Agilent 85105A which will overcome this limitation.   Agilent has adopted this OML modification and made it available as the Agilent 85105A Option H01.   For operation of OML Modules WR-08 and higher with the Agilent 85105A Option H01, the OML "x2" Option must be installed in the OML Modules.   The Agilent 85105A Option H01does not include the power supplies for the OML Modules, external power supplies are required.   Agilent has the Agilent 85105A Option K10 available which includes extended frequency coverage for use with OML Modules up to 325 GHz and power supplies for  only the OML Modules.   The Agilent 85105A K10 is not capable of operating with the Agilent 85104A millimeter wave Modules.    The standard Agilent 85105A is not upgradable to the Agilent 85105A-K10 version.   However, as stated above, the user can modifiy an Agilent 85105A by following the procedure developed by OML.   A complete cabling kit is available from Agilent or the user can consider cabling recommended by OML.

E)  A common, older Agilent millimeter wave system will consist of the following pieces:   Agilent 8510B VNA with Rev. 5.14,  Agilent 8350B/83540A Sweeper,  Agilent 8340A/B or 8341A/B Synthesizer, Agilent 85105A millimeter controller and a pair of lower millimeter wave heads (below 110 GHz).   At a minimum an owner of such a system, trying to expand his frequency coverage above 110 GHz, will have to modify his Agilent 85105A and purchase a second Agilent 8340A/B or 8341A/B or switch to Agilent 8360 series synthesizer.   The owner will probably choose to upgrade the Agilent 8510B to a Agilent 8510C.

F)    The Agilent 8510B user, confined by budget constraints, can achieve good quality “S11” and “S21” millimeter wave measurement capability in the following manner.   If the Agilent 8510B internal software revision is not Rev. B.05.13 or later, obtain from Agilent a free copy of Rev. B.05.14 and install it into the VNA.   Obtain a Agilent 8510 I.F. Interface Cable (Agilent P/N 08510-60105) for use as an interface between the Agilent 8510B and the OML Modules.   If this cable should become obsolete from Agilent, this approach will no longer be that inexpensive, so check on its availability first.   If the user currently has a Agilent 8340/41 series synthesizer then consider procuring a second unit of that type from a reputable used equipment source.   This would save or defer the expense of purchasing two Agilent 8360 series synthesizers.   One good source of these units is Test Lab Company, Mountain View, CA. @ Tel. # 650 969 1142.   Remember, the use of the Agilent 8340/41 combination is limited to waveguide bands no higher than WR-10 without the OML "x2" Option and will require the use of external filtering for subharmonic suppression.   If the user already has one Agilent 8360 series synthesizer then the obvious choice is to procure a second one, observing the constraints listed in the previous "Source" discussion.

Agilent has indicated that the Agilent 8340/41 synthesizers can be used with the Agilent 85105A-H01 or K10.   Interested parties can contact OML to discuss the above information and for suggestions/recommendations via telephone, FAX or email.

7)   A list of the waveguide frequency bands and their waveguide cutoff frequencies is shown below:

W/G Freq. Cutoff W/G Freq. Cutoff
Band GHz GHz Band GHz GHz
WR-42 18-26.5 14.08 WR-10 75-110 59.05
WR-28 26.5-40 21.07 WR-08 90-140 73.84
WR-22 33-50 26.34 WR-06 110-170 90.84
WR-19 40-60 31.41 WR-05 140-220 115.75
WR-15 50-75 39.86 WR-04 170-260 137.52
WR-12 60-90 48.35 WR-03 220-325 173.28

8)   In response to numerous inquiries regarding flange compatibility issues received by OML, the following waveguide flange compatibility information has been developed.

Current Mil-F-3922/ Flange Historical
Waveguide Designation   Number Configuration Flange (UG)
WR-42 K 68-001KM 0.875” sq. 595/U
WR-28 Ka 68-001AM 0.750” sq. 599/U
WR-22 Q 67B-006 1.125” rd. 383/U
WR-19 U 67B-007 1.125” rd. 383/U-M
WR-15 V 67B-008 0.750” rd. 385/U
WR-12 E 67B-009 0.750” rd. 387/U
WR-10 W 67B-010 0.750” rd. 387/U-M (10)
WR-08 F 67B-08 0.750” rd. 387/U-M (08)
WR-06 D 67B-06 0.750” rd. 387/U-M (06)
WR-05 G 67B-05 0.750” rd. 387/U-M (05)
WR-04 Y 67B-04 0.750” rd. 387/U-M (04)
WR-03 H (J) 67B-03 0.750” rd. 387/U-M (03)

Disclaimer:

All information contained in this paper is correct to the best of OML’s knowledge, and is current as of date below.   All possible effort has been expended to ensure the accuracy of this information and it is intended that this paper will be continually updated.   The information presented was primarily obtained through OML first hand knowledge gained through use of and experimentation with the subject Agilent equipment..   OML would appreciate any comments the user may have on this document.   Also please do not hesitate to contact OML with any questions.   Our email address is “oml@garlic.com”.

Sincerely,            Chuck Oleson

Attachments:

#1   Block Diagram  OML Millimeter Wave “T” Module
#2   Block Diagram  OML Millimeter Wave “T/R” Module
#3   Physical layout  OML Millimeter Wave Typical “T” Module
#4   Physical layout  OML Millimeter Wave Typical “T/R” Module  

Last Update 11/01/2002

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