Desktop Antenna Measurement System Model 6000 1
NOTICE This Publication, including all photographs, illustrations and software is protected under international copyright laws, with all rights reserved . Neither this manual, nor any of the material contained herein, may be reproduced without the express written consent of Diamond Engineering. The information in this document is subject to change without notice. Diamond Engineering makes no representations or warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
Table Of Contents NOTICE .........................................................................................................................2 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 6 System Overview ................................................................................................................................ 7 Key Features ...............................
Introduction Congratulations on your purchase of a Diamond Engineering Desktop Antenna Measurement System! Also Known As DAMS Diamond Engineering’s Desktop Antenna Measurement System has been designed to aid in the testing and development of small to medium sized Antennas. Using state of the art software this system enables you to make many different types of measurements with complete user-definable configuration settings.
Features System Overview Key Features · Light Weight- Platform is made of high quality, light weight Acrylic material for easy portability · USB Port Connectivity- Unit easily connects to the computer using a standard USB cable. · User Friendly Software- Our software has been designed to be understood easily to ensure the shortest time to successful Antenna Measurement. · Quality Components- The rotator unit is built only with the best of components for long lasting reliability.
Requirements System Overview Minimum System Requirements • • • • • • • • AMD/Pentium Class Computer with 1000 Mhz. Processor Or Higher (2 Ghz or Higher Recommended) 512 MB Ram 500 Megabytes Hard Disk Space 1 Available USB Port 1024x768 Display Resolution (Minimum) Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP Operating Systems are supported *Windows XP home is not compatible with the Parallel Port Model Keyboard and Mouse Compatible Network Analyzer or Power Meter/Spectrum Analyzer and Signal Generator.
USB Port Platform Controller Unit System Overview The USB Platform Control unit is a highly accurate Microprocessor based stepper controller. Movement signals are sent from the measurment PC to the controller unit where precision stepping sequences are generated. We also offer a development kit enabling you to write your own software to control the platform.
Parallel Port Platform Controller Unit System Overview The Platform Control unit controls the positioning of the Horizontal and Vertical movements based on signals recieved from the Computer’s Parallel Port. We also offer a Platfrom development kit which will allow you to adapt the DAMS Platform to your own software using a special DLL library.
Unpacking the System Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Package Contents Upon receiving your shipment of the Rotator Unit Please inspect the package to ensure all pieces are there and not damaged Accessories 10. Digital Level/Elevation Calibration Tool (optional) 11. Laser Alignment Tool (Optional) 12. Acrylic Thrust Plate (assembled with platform) Main components 1. Positioner Platform 2. Tripod 3. Users Manual with Software CD 4. 2- 10’ Calibrated SMA measurement Cables 5. 20’ (6.
Tripod Assembly Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Tripod and Elevation Unit Assembly The rotator unit has been shipped to you either complete in a matter that requires Minimal effort to assemble. BEFORE YOU BEGIN: Unpack ALL items and ensure there is no damage or missing parts. -Vertical Assembly 1. Unfold the Tripod and extend the top of the tripod 1/2 way and secure the height adjustment- (Fig. 1) 2.
Platform Assembly Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Connecting the platform and vertical actuator. 1. Ensure that the Azimuth of the tripod is unlocked. 2.Place the Tripod head in a horizontal position and tighten the locking screw (Loosen screw after assembly) 4. Loosen the Tilt Lock (Pic 2) enough to allow the platform to tilt and connect the vertical actuator rod to the platform , tighten the locknut to ensure the rod does not disconnect. 3.
Cable Connections Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Attaching the cables You should have received 5 Seperate Cables and a power supply with your DAMS System. 1. 2- 10 Ft. Custom Calibrated SMA cable.(1-20’ Cable Optional) 2. 1- USB cable. 3. 2- 6m Platform control cables Step 1. connect the USB cable to the Platform Controller. DO NOT CONNECT TO PC YET. Step 2. connect the Power Supply wire to the Platform Controller. Step 3.
Software and Hardware Installation Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Installing the Software 1. Place Software CD in CD-ROM drive, The CD Menu should Start Automatically, If the menu does not start automatically run setup.exe from your CD-ROM in “My Computer” or from Windows Explorer 2.Click next/ok through all Following Screens. 3. Before the software is finished installing , the Agilent Runtime setup will start, Continue through this setup as you would a normal software installation. 4.
Software Configuration Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Connecting the controller and installing the Parallel Port drivers (Pre-2005 Parallel interface units ONLY) Installing the Userport.Sys Driver (Required for Windows NT, 2000, And XP Professional users) NOTE: If you recieved a Pre-Configured Laptop From us, the Steps below have already been performed -you will ony need to follow the steps below if you are Re-Installing the Operating System.
Software Configuration Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration VEE Runtime I/O Configuration You must complete these steps for the Sofware to communicate with your network analyzer!. 1. Click Start -> Programs->Agilent VEE pro 6.0 Runtime-> I/O Config 2. Turn on you Network Analyzer and Click the “Find Instruments button. 3.
Tripod Compatibility Information The DAMS system has been designed so that it will operate with most any tripod, when purchasing a new tripod you must ensure that all of the parts from the current system will fit onto the new trupod without angle or clearance problems.
System Test Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Calibrating/Setting the Vertical Movement to 0 Degrees -- See Also Vertical Calibration Settings In order for the software to move the platform correctly on the vertical axis you must have the platform at 0 degrees when starting the DAMS Softtware - or the platform must match the vertical position shown in the software before moving vertically.
Installation Notes Chapter 1 - Installation and Configuration Special Installation Notes SCREEN SLEEPERS and Power Saving options. Be sure to disable screen sleepers, Power Saving Features and other Applications, which may cause GPIB or dll to crash. Other Running ApplicationsThe DAMs Software requires a large amount of CPU and System Resources. We advise you not to have any other applications running while the DAMs Software is operating. Other Programs may cause the Platform to move inaccurately.
Chapter 2 23
Measurement Settings Chapter 2 - Software Overview Measurement Settings Instrument Selection and Settings You can now choose from multiple combinations of instruments such as a Signal Generator and Power Meter or Signal Generator and Spectrum Analyzer. Available Modes of Operation 1. VNA ONLY 2. Signal Generator and Power Meter 3. Signal Generator and Spectrum Analyzer 4. Signal Generator and Multimeter 5. Special Recieve Only Mode. 6. Emulation Mode.
Measurement Settings Chapter 2 - Software Overview Measurement Settings Receive Instrument -Spctrum Analyzer Settings Bandwidth- Sets the bandwidth window on the spectrum analyzer , the smaller the window the faster the sweep. Format is in GHz. Resolution-Sets the Frequency Resolution of the spectrum analyzer sweep. Inplut format is in MHz. Trigger Mode- Changes the way the power meter reads the sensor, this setting is only applied to certain meters.
Measurement Settings Chapter 2 - Software Overview Measurement Settings Azimuth setup Degrees Per Measurement- Displays the CURRENT degrees-per measurement based off of total degrees sliderand the degrees per measurement settings (note: This window may indicate a different value than the pulldown, remember this is the current setting) Number of measurements readout- Dislplays the CURRENT total number of measurements that will be made based on the settings below.
Calibration Settings Chapter 2 - Software Overview Calibration Settings Scalar Calibration This feature anables you to make a scalar calibration using your Signal Generator and Recieve source. An in depth explinaton and example is located in chapter 3 - Calibrating your system. Averaging- in cases of large ammounts of background noise you may want to average the calibration measurements. Save Cal- Save your callibration to a file on your computer. Load Cal - Load a calibration file from your computer.
Measurement Controls Chapter 2 - Sofware Overview Measurement Controls Measure Horiz. Sweep- When this button is pressed, the software will begin making measurements by moving the platform horizontally , then retrieving the data from the network analyzer. The button will remain “greyed out” while the antenna measurement is in progress Measure Vert.
Measurement Status and Displays Chapter 2 - Software Overview Meaurement Status and Displays Measurement Status window The measurement status window displays all of the current Measurement parameters and will update automatically During the measurement process. Graphical Status Displays The Graphical status windows allow you to view the Real-Time data as it is captured from the Network Analyzer. All Status Graphs display the center measurement frequency.
Data Processing Chapter 2 - Software Overview Data Processing Introduction The Data Processing Feature is your gateway to unlocking the data contained within your antenna measurements. After making your initial measurement of the Antenna you can press the “Data Procesing” button located in the “Post Measurement Options” window of the main software page and you will be taken to the screen shown below. This section of the manual will describe all of the functions located in the Data Processing feature.
Data Processing Chapter 2 - Software Overview Data Registers When working with data in the Data Processing feature all of the data is stored in registers, these regesters alow you to have “Holding Space” for partictular data sets. this is very useful for working with multiple measurements from other antennas. There are 5 registers total, 4 storage registers and 1 Active register.
Data Processing Chapter 2 - Software Overview Visualization Options The data visualuzation options enables you to view the Antenna Data in a wide variety of formats. Azmuth vs. Frequency vs. Amplitide 3D Plot About: This plot is the most versatile of the 3D plots and will gve you a good idea of the frequency response Vs. Rotation of the Antenna you have measured . If you have made Az/El measurements you can use the Az/El 3D plot for a more detailed view.
Data Processing Chapter 2 - Software Overview Dynamic Amplitude Plot About: This plot offers a Linear or Log Mag 2D look into the Gain Pattern of the measured Antenna for a specified frequency point.
Data Processing Chapter 2 - Software Overview Measurement Calculator Use this option to perform arithmetic operations on the measurement registers. For example if you make measurements on one antenna and wish to compare the results to another antenna at each point of rotation and each frequency. Or if you have a calibrated reference antenna an wish to normalize additional measurements to the max or min value of the reference antenna.
System Calibration Chapter 3 - Making Measurements Important---- If you are using a VNA this information does not apply to you. Performing a Scalar Calibration 1. Be sure Platform Power supply is securely attached and plugged in 3. Turn Platform Power ON. 4. Selet the Source Instrument you plan to use, After selection click the “Settings” button located below the icon. 5. Click the “Cal System button 6. Connect the power meter to the top of the DAMs System.
Basic Measurements Chapter 3 - Making Measurements Making a basic Horizontal/Azimuth Measurement 1. Be sure Platform Power supply is securely attached and plugged in 2. Attach antenna to rotator platform with SMA connector 3. Turn Platform Power ON. 4. On your analyzer select S21, POLAR Plot and the proper Calibration set Example: 4 to 6 Ghz @ 201 Points. *if your analyzer has not been calibrated, you need to follow the calibration procedure listed in chapter 1 5.
Az/El Scan Measurements Chapter 3 - Making Measurements Performing an AZ/EL Scan Measurement 1. Be sure Rotator Power is Securely attached and plugged in 2. Attach Antenna to rotator platform using a SMA connector 3. Turn Platform Power ON. 4. On your analyzer select S21, POLAR Plot and the proper instrument state -Example: 4 to 6 Ghz @ 201 Points. 5. The Total Degrees Slider must be set to 360 degrees or the software will not sort measurements correctly. 6.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Screenshot Introduction Use the Data Proceessing section to work with the data you collected after you make any Antenna Measurements. This feature allows complete control over the data including the ability to completely manipulate the data using a large set of math operators as well as compare the current antenna to another Antenna or a calibrated refernece antenna.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Saving and Loading Measurement Data Sets. All Measurement Data is stored in Data Sets, each Data Set consists of a group of 4 Data Registers. These 4 Registers are used only for storing and recalling data within the Data Processing feature, the Data Sets can be recalled or saved to disc at any point in time.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Viewing and working with measurements in 3D Press any of the 3D Buttons to View the “Active Register” Data in 3D Using the MatLab Viewing Interface. Viewing 3D Azimuth Measurements 1. Be Sure there is data in the “Active Register, if there is no data you must recall data from one of the storage registers or make a Measurement. 2. Press the “View 3D Az Plot” button. 3.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Viewing and working with the Dynamic Amplitude Plot Follow the Instructions below to view your data using the Dynamic Amplitude Plot located in the Data Processing feature of the software. Remember, The Dynamic Amplitude Plot will only plot the data that is contained in the Active Register. Instructions: 1. From the Main Data Processing Page click on Amplitude Frequency Plot and you will be taken to the screen shown below 2.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Viewing and working with the Polar Plot display Follow the Instructions below to view your data using the Polar Plot located in the Data Processing feature of the software. Remember, The Polar Plot will only plot the data that is contained in the Active Register. Instructions: 1. From the Main Data Processing Page click on “Polar Plot” and you will be taken to the screen shown below 2. Select Log or Linear Data View. 3.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Using the Measurement Calculator / Register Math Function. Use this option to perform arithmetic operations on the measurement registers. For example if you make measurements on one antenna and wish to compare the results to another antenna at each point of rotation and each frequency. Or if you have a calibrated reference antenna an wish to normalize additional measurements to the max or min value of the reference antenna.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Using the Measurement Calculator / Register Math Function. Data Processing Feature Contd. Clip Function Use this to create a threshold level. A ZERO value clip causes software to ignore clipping and resume normal calculator mode. For example lets say the you wish to not include data points smaller than some low level value such as <-50dBM. Enter the value -50 into the constant window aUnderstanding the Register Math Functions nd highlight “Clip”.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Exporting Data Measurement Export Process Most simulators make use of space delimiter data files. Space delimited data files were originally established for SParameter measurements and are still the standard today. A space delimited file is easily copied and paste into a spreadsheet, word processor or text editor. Microwave Office and Agilent both use the original “Touchstone” format established by Compact Engineering in the 70’s.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Measurement Export Process Contd. Adata is your measurement data array in complex format from the baisc page 1 software The first column is a scalar array and can set the count for example “frequencies” or angle. You can do this in one of two ways. Enter a known one dimensional array variable such as “NumM”. The program variable “NumM” is a 1-D array otherwise only a single row will be written.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Using the Dipole and Isotropic Link CalculatorUse the ideal dipole to simulate an entire link measurement set. Then you may perform calculator operations that you can use to normalize and compare your measurements to. The calculations are for any dipole length over any frequency range for any rotation sequence. Be advised the calculation can become enormous if you choose a very long or very short lengths compared to a wavelength.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Using the Dipole and Isotropic Link Calculator Data Processing Feature Contd. Once you have saved your dipole array into REG1 (or 2,3,4) calculate the Aperture array and save the results into REG2. Now use the calculator to multiply REG1 x REG2. The result is the entire link gain normalized to the Rx antenna gain. Save the results into a REG3. Now choose a receive antenna. You could go back into the dipole section and calculate another dipole for Rx.
Chapter 4 - Using the Data Processing Feature Data Processing Feature Group Delay Function Group delay is the derivative (slope) of the transmission phase angle. For passive circuit elements the group delay is linear and may be calculated from two measurements. It is important that the ratio of the frequency deltawavelength is less that the physical distance between the measurement. If this is not the case then either the frequency Resolution must be increased or the delay will need to be integer scaled.
Chapter 5 - Troubleshooting and Service Troubleshooting Operation Troubleshooting Problem- Red Light does not come on Possible Causes- Power Supply is not connected correctly, Power Switch is not in the ON position Solution- Check all of the Items listed above and if everything is OK and light still does not come on please contact us immediately for service. Problem- Red Light comes on but rotator does not move Possible Causes- Parallel cable is not connected to the LPT1.
Chapter 5 - Troubleshooting and Service Service and Contact Info. Warranty Information The Antenna Measurement System is guaranteed for 2 years on parts and labor from the time it was received by you.
