Models 3406T 3408T Instruction Manual

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INSTALLATION & OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
Model 3406T & 3408T Series
SmartStep Programmable Attenuators
This documentation may not be reproduced in any form, for any
purpose unless authorized in writing by Aeroflex / Weinschel, Inc.
© Aeroflex / Weinschel, Inc.
Frederick, Maryland
2006
REV. 7-06
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GENERAL
This manual provides general installation instructions and wiring data to be used as anaid in
installing a Aeroflex / Weinschel 3406T or 3408T
Series SmartStep Programmable Attenuator into
any system or application. Also included are specifications and other technical data to help in the
installation andoperation of your 3400T Series
Smartstep Programmable Attenuator.
This Series of SmartStep Programmable Step Attenuators is designed for use
inautomatic test equipment and OEM systems operating in the dc to 6 GHz
frequency range. Each cell contains a standard TO-5 type double-pole, doublethrow relay that provides a minimum loss or attenuated path for the RF signal
which is controlled by a built-in digital interface shown in Figure 1.
Non-Volatile
Configuration
Memory
TTL/CMOS
Compatible
Digital Interface
Single-Chip
Microcontroller
+5 V
Regulator
+12 to
+15 V
Input
Relay
Drivers
EMI
Filters
Figure 1. SmartStep Driver Circuitry
2
To
Attenuator
Relays
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3400T Series SmartStep Programmable Attenuators
BUILT-IN SMARTSTEP DRIVER CIRCUITRY: These SmartStep attenuators feature an
internal microcontroller-based driver that provides a TTL-level digital interface for control of
the attenuator relays. This card simplifies operation and interfacing requirements, while at
the same time providing for greatly enhanced flexibility over past designs. User-selectable
modes of operation include both parallel and serial Smartstep bus. The parallel mode provides a simple, one-bit per relay on/off control with internal pullups for use primarily in
single attenuator applications. This mode allows the attenuator to be controlled via a variety of methods, such as a TTL-level digital output port, or mechanical toggle switches. The
Smartstep mode provides a two-wire serial bus structure and protocol for connecting a
number of devices to a single host control interface, suitable for use in larger system and
sub-system applications.
The SmartStep contains non-volatile configuration memory that is used to hold a wide variety of attenuator and driver-dependant parameters, including serial number, attenuator cell
dB values, relay configurations, and switching requirements, which are all accessable via
the Smartstep interface. This frees the system designer from such low-level details, allowing faster integration. In either operational mode, the microcontroller enters an idle
condition during periods of inactivity, turning off all on-board clocks, reducing EMI concerns, and lowering power consumption. On-board regulation for the digital circuitry allows
the SmartStep to operate from a single input supply voltage.
CELL CONFIGURATION
The table below list all the standard attenuation ranges and cell configurations for
Aeroflex / Weinschel 3400T Series Smartstep Programmable Attenuators (Models
3406T & 3408T). Note the dash number is the attenuation value of your attenuator.
Model No.
Cell
No.
Range/
Step Size
(dB)
Data Bit-Cell Value (dB)
D7
D6
D5
D4
D3
D2
D1
D0
24
16
8
4
2
1
3406T-55
6
55/1
3408T-55.75
8
55.75/0.25
24
16
8
4
2
1
0.5
0.25
3408T-103
8
103/1
24*
16
8
4
2
1
24
24*
* Combined Cells
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INSTALLATION
MOUNTING: Each Programmable Step Attenuator is supplied with two mountingholes (4-40 UNC-2B x 0.24 MIN DP) located on the bottom side of the
attenuator.
RF CABLE INSTALLATION: Care should be taken to prevent strain on the interconnecting cables, since damage here may not always be apparent. Check the
attaching RF cables and the SMA connectors for signs of cracked insulation
and/or bent or worn pins prior to connection. Tests show that connectors must be
clean for accuracy and stability. This requires an inspection and cleaning of each
connector immediately before use. When cleaning precautions are observed regularly, connectors can maintain their stability for over several thousand
connection cycles. Weinschel recommends a torque value of 7 to 10 inch pounds
when connecting any RF cable to the attenuator's RF connectors.
DEVICE INTERFACE BUS (DIB) CONNECTOR WIRING: Figure 2 shows the
connectors contact pin numbering scheme and the signal designator for signal
present at each contact pin.
PIN 13
PIN 14
PIN 2
PIN 1
Name
Pin
VIN
1
VIN
GND
2
3,4
D0/SDA
D1/SCL
7
8
Data Bit 0 (isb)/I2C SDA
Data Bit 1//I2C SCL
D2
5
Data Bit 2
D3
6
Data Bit 3
D4
11
Data Bit 4
D5
12
Data Bit 5
D6
9
Data Bit 6
dc Supply Voltage, +12 to 15 V (1)
dc Supply Voltage, +12 to 15 V (1)
dc Return
D7
10
Data Bit 7 (msb)
Mode
13
Parallel/Serial Mode Select
Select
/RST
NOTE: Pin locations same
with or without cover.
Description
1=Parallel
14
0=Serial
This pin has a 22K resistive pull-up to 5 V.
Leave unconnected for parallel mode operation.
Reset Input, low active
This pin has a 22K resistive pull-up to 5 V
Leave unconnected if not used.
Note: D0-D7 pins contain weak active pullups, capable of sourcing
approximately 150 mA.
(1) Voltage may be applied to either PIN 1 or 2 or both.
Figure 2. DIB Connector Wiring
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3400T Series SmartStep™ Programmable Attenuators
PARALLEL MODE OPERATION:
In the parallel mode of operation, the Smartstep attenuator accepts TTL-level
parallel data on the D0-D7 input data lines. Each data line controls a separate
attenuation cell, where a logic 1 input (TTL high) engages the attenuation cell, and
a logic 0 input (TTL low) bypasses the cell, providing a through path. The data
lines have a weak active pull-up to +5V, and therefore if the pin is left unconnected (or floating), will engage the attenuation cell. The on-board microcontroller
debounces the data lines and generates the proper timing and control sequence
for operation of the relays. The data line inputs are not latched, and must be driven with a constant level to keep the desired attenuation setting.
SERIAL MODE OPERATION:
In the serial mode of operation, the Smartstep attenuator communicates over a
two-wire serial bus to the Weinschel Model 8210 Smartstep Interface. The bus
uses a clock (SCL) and data (SDA) line to send and receive programming and
configuration information. The messages sent over the bus use the software
protocol as defined in the ACCESS.bus™ V2.2 specification (Base Protocol) with
Weinschel-specific extensions to support the control of step attenuators (StepAttn
Protocol). These protocols and operating instructions can be located in the Model
8210 instruction manual (IM-288). The ACCESS.bus™ messages have the
following format:
Byte#
D7
D6
D5
D4
D3
D2
D1
D0
Description
1
2
3
4
Length+4
D7
S7
P
D6
S6
L6
D5
S5
L5
D4
S4
L4
D3
S3
L3
D2
S2
L2
D1
S1
L1
0
0
L0
X7
X6
X5
X4
X3
X2
X1
X0
Destination address
Source address
Protocol flag & Msg Length
msg body- 0 to 127 bytes
Checksum
For an indepth discussion of the hardware and software operation, refer to the
ACCESS.bus™ specification.
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SPECIFICATIONS
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE:
50 Ω
FREQUENCY RANGE:
dc to 6.0 GHz
DRIVER INTERFACE:
Input Supply Voltage:
+12.0 to +15.0V
Control Signals:
TTL/CMOS compatible
Interface Modes:
parallel/ I2C serial
DC Characteristics (at 25 °C):
Digital Interface:
DRIVER INTERFACE:
Parameter
VIL
VIH
Specification
Low-level input V:
-0.5V min, 0.8V max
High-level input V: 2.0V min, 5.25V max
IPU
Pullup current:
50 μA min, 400 μA max
VIN
Supply Voltage:
+12.0 to +15.0V
IIN
Supply current:
25 mA (digital section)
ICELL
Supply current:
16.6 mA @ 12V
POWER RATING: 1 watt average to 25°C ambient temperature, derated linearly to
0.25 watt @ 71°C. 50 watts peak (5 μsec pulse width; 1% duty cycle)
POWER COEFFICIENT:
< 0.005 dB/dB/watt
RATED SWITCH LIFE:
5 million cycles operations per cell @ 0 dBm
CYCLING RATE:
5 Hz maximum per relay
TEMPERATURE:
-30° to +70°C
CONNECTORS: SMA female connectors per MIL-STD-348 interface dimensions - mate
nondestructively with MIL-C-39012 connectors.
INTERFACE CONNECTOR: 14 pin .025 square post header on .1 center. Mates with Amp
connector 746285-2 or equivalent.
CONSTRUCTION:
Housing:
Connectors:
Aluminum
Stainless steel body and beryllium
copper contacts.
Control terminals: Brass/Copper, Silver plated
WEIGHT (Typical): 3406T-X:
99 g (3.5 oz)
3408T-X:
135 g (4.8 oz)
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3400T Series SmartStep™ Programmable Attenuators
CELL CONFIGURATIONS:
Model
Number
NO.
Cells
(dB)
Attenuation
Range/Steps
3406T-55
6
55/1
3408T-55.75
8
55.75/0.25
3408T-103
8
103/1
Cell
Increments
(dB)
1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 24
0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 24
1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 48*
*48 dB cell comprised of two 24 dB cells
INCREMENTAL ATTENUATION ACCURACY:
Frequency
Range (GHz)
dc - 3
3-6
Accuracy
+0.3 dB or 2% whichever is greater
+0.4 dB or 3% whichever is greater
MAXIMUM INSERTION LOSS (dB):
Frequency
Range (GHz)
dc - 3
3-6
3206-55
3408-55.75
3408-103
2.60
3.80
3.40
5.00
MAXIMUM SWR:
Frequency Range (GHz)
dc - 3
3-6
SWR
1.30
1.45
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PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS:
“A”
“B”
49.9
(1.93)
“C”
“D”
Model No.
3408T-X
No. Cells
8
A
136.1 (5.36)
B
123.4 (4.86)
C
7 EQ SPCS @ 15.20 (.60) = 106.7 (4.20)
D
128.5 (5.06)
6
105.7 (3.66)
93.0 (3.66)
5 EQ SPCS @ 15.20 (.60) =76.0 (3.00)
98.0 (3.86)
3406T-X
NOTE:
8
All dimensions are given in mm (inches) and are nominal, unless otherwise specified.
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3400T Series SmartStep™ Programmable Attenuators
ACCESSORIES
Model 8210 Smartstep Interface: The Model 8210 Smartstep Interface provides a flexible, low cost solution for the operation of programmable step attenuators and other
electromechanical devices under computer control. Designed to interface to Weinschel's
new line of Smartstep Programmable Attenuators, the 8210 represents a new concept in
device control applications for bench test and subsystem designs. The 8210 provides a
high-level interface from various industry standard communications interfaces, including
IEEE-488/RS232/RS422/RS485, to the Smartstep's serial Device Interface Bus. Typical
Setup shown below:
CONTACTING Aeroflex / Weinschel
In the event you're having difficulty or believe that the components are defective,
please contact Aeroflex / Weinschel immediately. An apparent malfunction may be
corrected over the phone by contacting the Customer Service Department at
Aeroflex / Weinschel. DO NOT send the product back to the factory without prior
authorization (RMA number). When it is necessary to return an item, state the
symptoms or problems, catalog and type number of the attenuator, and date of
original purchase. Also write the company name, your name, and phone number
on an index card. Then attach the card to the attenuator to be returned.
For more information or any questions about your Programmable Step
Attenuators and/or other Aeroflex / Weinschel products, contact the Sales
Department at Aeroflex / Weinschel.
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Aeroflex / Weinschel Warranty
PRODUCTS: Aeroflex / Weinschel warrants each product it manufactures to be
free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service anywhere in the world. Aeroflex / Weinschel's only obligation under this Warranty is
to repair or replace, at its plant, any product or part thereof that is returned with
transportation charges prepaid to Aeroflex / Weinschel by the original purchaser
within ONE YEAR from the date of shipment.
The foregoing Warranty does not apply to, and in Aeroflex / Weinschel's sole opinion, products that have been subject to improper or inadequate maintenance,
unauthorized modifications, misuse, or operation outside the environmental specifications for the product.
SOFTWARE PRODUCTS: Aeroflex / Weinschel software products are supplied
without representation or Warranty of any kind. Aeroflex / Weinschel, therefore,
assumes no responsibility and will not accept liability (consequential or otherwise)
arising from the use of program materials, disk, or tape.
The Warranty period is controlled by the Warranty document furnished with each
product and begins on the date of shipment. All Warranty returns must be authorized by Aeroflex / Weinschel prior to their return.
Aeroflex / Weinschel's Quality System Certified to:
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3400T Series SmartStep™ Programmable Attenuators
Notes:
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5305 Spectrum Drive, Frederick, Maryland 21703-7362
TEL: (301) 846-9222, 800-638-2048, FAX: (301) 846-9116
Web: www.aeroflex-weinschel.com, e-mail: [email protected]
© 2006, Aeroflex / Weinschel, Inc.