New R&S SMZ frequency multipliers with integrated attenuator deliver precise and adjustable output levels up to 110 GHz

11/04/2010

By offering three new frequency multipliers, Rohde & Schwarz is extending the frequency range of microwave signal generators to 110 GHz. The frequency multipliers in the R&S SMZ family are the first on the market to offer users the choice of either mechanically or electronically controlled built-in attenuator options. Rohde & Schwarz designed the multipliers as the perfect complement to the R&S SMF100A microwave signal generator. In addition to controlling the R&S SMZ frequency multipliers, the R&S SMF100A also automatically monitors and corrects frequency and level values. Users from the automotive sector, research institutions and the aerospace and defense industry no longer have to perform time-consuming and error-prone correction measurements using a level detector or power sensor.

From the development of parking assistance systems to the use of radar interferometry to scan the earth’s surface – all applications with frequencies up to 110 GHz – even high-end signal generators quickly hit their limits. This is why users have to supplement their generator with a frequency multiplier. Up until now, if the level also needed to 00be adjustable (essential for LO applications, for example), an external attenuator was required and the entire setup had to be calibrated.

The new R&S SMZ family from Rohde & Schwarz substantially simplifies this complex test setup since, for the first time, no external attenuator is necessary. Users have the option of selecting either a mechanically or electronically controlled built-in attenuator for their R&S SMZ model. The electronically controlled attenuator offers a dynamic range of 15 dB, the mechanically controlled attenuator a dynamic range of 25 dB.

The R&S SMZ family is the ideal complement for the R&S SMF100A microwave signal generator from Rohde & Schwarz. This combined solution simplifies test setup and test execution: the multipliers can be controlled by the generator via the USB interface so that the devices operate as a unit. They can also be remote-controlled over the R&S SMF100A’s GPIB, LAN or USB interface. All settings, such as output level and output frequency are made on the R&S SMF100A. Via USB, the generator receives all the data it needs from the connected R&S SMZ, in particular the precalibrated frequency response. This allows the R&S SMF100A to make automatic corrections, ensuring that the frequency and level values at the R&S SMZ output are the same as those set on the R&S SMF100A. Conventional test setups normally involved time-consuming and error-prone level measurements using a level detector or power sensor. The Rohde & Schwarz solution eliminates the need for these measurements.

The frequency multiplier family includes three models, the R&S SMZ75 (50 GHz to 75 GHz), the R&S SMZ90 (60 GHz to 90 GHz) and the R&S SMZ110 (75 GHz to 110 GHz). All models are now available from Rohde & Schwarz.

www.rohde-schwarz.com

Company profile:  Rohde & Schwarz