605-128 1088dm 05/09rev7mp

Milwaukee Area Technical College Electronic Technology Electronic Communications Lab Assignment 1 Introduction to the Frequency Domain
The purpose of this lab unit is to become familiar with the basic concepts of the Frequency Domain by using a Spectrum Analyzer. The Fourier equations describing common complex wave shapes will be empirically analyzed. Using the decibel in measurement and proper termination of AC sources will also be explored; which will aid in predicting and recognizing circuit/system changes if improper line terminations should occur. Before beginning the lab, a brief outline to spectrum analysis will be introduced. It should first be recognized that the general and foremost instrument for observing electronic signals is the oscilloscope. The horizontal axis (X) on an oscilloscope display is incremented by a unit of time, and therefore oscilloscopes are sometimes referred to as timedomain instruments. Observation in the time-domain is useful to obtain timings and phases of signals that are required to quantify electronic circuits and systems. However, all electronic circuits and systems cannot be fully evaluated only by the amplitude at a certain time or by using time-domain information alone. For example, circuit elements such as amplifiers, oscillators, mixers, modulators and filters, in addition to systems incorporating all of them, have not truly been evaluated until their frequency characteristics are obtained too. Instruments that display levels of an electronic signal as a function of its respective frequencies are called frequency-domain instruments. Essentially, the various frequency components are separated and the amplitude of the various frequencies is displayed. The typical frequency domain instrument is the spectrum analyzer, which we will use in this lab exercise. There are others such as the Fourier analyzer, selective voltmeter and the field strength meter; though, the spectrum analyzer can be considered the most versatile since it essentially can duplicate the functions of the others. In addition to amplitude and frequency, phase is another characteristic that must be evaluated periodically, but a more complex instrument such as the "network analyzer" will be used.

Since the decibel is used extensively for representing both relative and absolute values in an electronics communication environment, along with most of the equipment associated with the electronic communications field, it might be appropriate to become familiar with the dB first. Part 1. Signal generator and dB measurements. 1. Apply power to the selected signal generator and explain the function of the various operator 2 c o n t r o l s w h i c ha r el i s t e db e l o w .R e f e r t ot h eo p e r a t o r s ma n u a lto aid in understanding all functions and controls. Frequency Adjustment/Selection. Amplitude Adjustment/Selection. Remember, dB values are in rms. Modulation Selection. This will not be used at this time. Ensure that it is disabled. Procedure for saving/recalling generator set-ups. 2. Program memory location 1 for the following: a. Frequency of 100 kHz (sinewave) b. Amplitude for 24dBm c. No modulation
1

1 2

Agilent 33120A/33220A Function/Arbitrary Waveform Generator Find and look over the specifications section.

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Program memory location 2 for the following: a. Frequency of 100 kHz (sinewave) b. Amplitude for 18 dBm c. No modulation Calculate the expected rms output voltage with the generator set at Memory (Storage) Location 1, then memory location 2. (Show your work keeping in mind the generator output impedance.)

Vrms ML 1

Vrms ML 2

Connect an oscilloscope across the output using the 10:1 probe and proceed as follows: 3. Recall ML 1 and measure the actual rms output voltage VOUT rms = 4. (output = 24 dBm)
3

Recall ML 2 and measure the actual rms output voltage VOUT rms = (output = 18 dBm)

How do these measured values compare with your calculations?

If there is a discrepancy, record the approximate amount in dB. This can be calculated using 20 log (VMeasured / VCalculated). dB Note: This is a relative value not an absolute value. Can you explain the empirical (observable/experimental) results?

Obtain a true rms voltmeter and verify your previous found values. List some possible reasons for any additional discrepancies. In other words, how much difference is there when comparing the voltmeter readings to the oscilloscope?

5.

Connect the output of the generator to a 50 load. Ask your instructor for a load resistor.

Keep in mind the conversion from VPP to Vrms

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6.

Calculate and record below the dBm amplitude selection required using the 50 load impedance for obtaining an rms output voltage of 200 mV.

dBm Now program memory location 3 for the following: a. Frequency of 5 MHz (sinewave) b. Amplitude for 200 mV rms selected using dBm c. No Modulation Now measure and record the output signal amplitude in millivolts using the oscilloscope.

How does the measured value compare with the calculated setting? Use the same method as used in step 4 to calculate any discrepancy.

Now measure and record below the voltage and power using the true rms voltmeter. What was observed? VOUT true rms voltmeter = POUT true rms voltmeter = V

dBm

Explain all discrepancies. This would include any difference between the selected and the oscilloscope measurements, and any differences between oscilloscope and voltmeter. How does this step differ from steps 2 4? What observation can be made between the selected (generator display) amplitude and the measured generator output amplitude? Explain in detail.

7.

Calculate the amplitude/output level (200 mV) for dBmV. Show all work.

dBmV Now calculate for dB V.

8.

dB V

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Part 2. The Frequency Domain and Fourier Analysis. Since there is only one spectrum analyzer (SA), this part of the lab will be done as a group demonstration. Please take notes during the demonstration so that you can answer the questions listed below. If time permits individual usage is recommended. 1. What is the frequency range, input impedance and maximum input power of the spectrum analyzer? Are these factors important to know when making measurements? Explain.

2.

Explain the purpose of the controls related to each of the following functions/blocks for the SA. Do not include specialized menu or softkey buttons. CENTER FREQ FREQ SPAN (Display vs. per Div) RBW (RESOLUTION BW) VIDEO FILTER REF LEVEL/AMPLITUDE LOG/LIN MARKERS

3.

Note that the display of the SA shows amplitude or signal strength in dBm. Calculate the output setting of the generator (using VPP) that would display a signal on the analyzer at a level of -20 dBm. Show calculations and beware of units and the proper termination.

4. 5.

Set the generator to 100 kHz (no modulation) at the level determined in step 3. Connect the generator to the SA and an oscilloscope (optional). Set-up the SA as follows: Center frequency: 100 kHz Freq. Span: 10 kHz/div or 100 kHz Resolution BW: Auto Ref. Level: 0 dBm Sweep: Auto

6.

Print the resulting display as viewed on the spectrum analyzer. Indicate/Record amplitude in dBm and include the average noise floor level if visible. Also, indicate the actual frequencies of the information displayed. Change the SA Ref. Level to -20 dBm, again look for the noise floor and print the results.

Is the accuracy of the measurements consistent with the specifications of the equipment used? How do you know?

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Is electronic test instrumentation accuracy and knowing the limitations of the instrumentation used an important consideration when making a choice for a particular application? Explain.

7.

After r e t u r n i n gt h eS A s R e f . L e v e l t o0d B m, set the output of the generator to -10 dBm at 100 kHz (sinewave) while observing the spectrum analyzer display. What was observed? Print the results. Is the noise floor visible?

8.

Set the frequency span to 200 kHz/div or 2 MHz. Change to a square wave function and print the results. Measure both the frequency and amplitude for each frequency component present on the righthand side of the display starting from the center taking note to the 0 Hz vector. Each frequency component will be relative to the fundamental frequency at 100 kHz. The fundamental amplitude is sometimes referred to as 0 dBc. Inverse dB calculations will be necessary to compare with the Fourier amplitudes. Refer to the Fourier function equation sheet for the proper values. Do the observed frequencies and amplitudes correlate with the Fourier equation that describes this function? Show calculations comparing calculated to the measured values denoting the level for each.

Where does the 0 Hz vector on the SA display originate?

9.

Now change the function to a triangle and evaluate as in step 8. Then do the same for the saw tooth function.

10.

Complete the DIRP as instructed using the results and answers to the various steps and questions from this lab exercise to aid in your responses and inclusions.

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MATC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution and complies with all requirements of the American With Disabilities Act.