Pni PSF6020A Manual

The Pni PSF6020A is a professional-grade signal generator with frequency range from 9kHz to 2.4GHz, built-in modulation capabilities (AM/FM/PM), high stability reference oscillator, USB and GPIB interfaces for remote control, LCD display with menu navigation, and rugged metal housing. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-stability frequency synthesizer, LCD display with backlight, front panel controls, RF output connector, modulation inputs, reference input/output, USB and GPIB ports.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	9kHz to 2.4GHz with 0.1Hz resolution
Output Level	-127dBm to +13dBm, 0.1dB steps
Modulation Types	AM, FM, PM, pulse modulation
Reference Oscillator	10MHz internal, ±0.5ppm stability
Display	320x240 LCD with menu system
Interfaces	USB 2.0, GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232 optional
RF Output	BNC connector, 50Ω impedance
Modulation Inputs	BNC for external modulation sources
Power Requirements	100-240V AC, 50-60Hz
Dimensions	430mm x 130mm x 380mm (WxHxD)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface with adequate ventilation.

1. Connect power cable: Use supplied IEC power cable to AC mains.
2. Connect RF output: Use high-quality coaxial cable to device under test.
3. Connect modulation sources: Use BNC cables to external modulation inputs if needed.
4. Connect reference: Use 10MHz reference input/output for system synchronization.
5. Connect control interfaces: USB or GPIB cables for remote operation.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding. Do not operate in wet or humid conditions. Allow 10cm clearance on all sides for ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; initialize system settings.

1. Power up: Press front panel POWER button; wait for self-test completion.
2. Set frequency: Use numeric keypad or rotary encoder to set desired frequency.
3. Set output level: Adjust amplitude to required value.
4. Configure modulation: Select modulation type and parameters from MOD menu.
5. Save settings: Store frequently used configurations in memory locations.
6. Calibrate: Perform initial calibration if prompted (recommended annually).

CAUTION! Do not exceed maximum input levels on modulation ports. Use only specified cable types.

Specifications

• Frequency Range: 9kHz to 2.4GHz
• Frequency Resolution: 0.1Hz
• Output Level Range: -127dBm to +13dBm
• Level Accuracy: ±1.0dB (at +23°C ±5°C)
• Harmonic Suppression: ≤-30dBc (typical)
• Non-harmonic Spurious: ≤-60dBc (typical)
• Phase Noise: ≤-110dBc/Hz at 10kHz offset (1GHz carrier)
• AM Modulation: 0-100% depth, DC-20kHz modulation bandwidth
• FM Modulation: ±100kHz deviation, DC-20kHz modulation bandwidth
• Reference Frequency: 10MHz internal, external reference input available
• Power Consumption: 45W maximum
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +50°C
• Storage Temperature: -20°C to +70°C

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, FREQUENCY, AMPLITUDE, MODULATION, MODE, STORE/RECALL, ENTER, ESC, rotary encoder, numeric keypad.

Display Areas: Main frequency/amplitude, modulation status, system messages, menu navigation.

Frequency Settings: Direct entry via keypad, step adjustment via encoder. Amplitude Settings: Level in dBm, attenuation settings. Modulation Settings: AM depth, FM deviation, modulation frequency, source (internal/external). System Settings: Reference source (internal/external), display contrast, beeper, interface parameters, calibration.

Connecting Devices

RF Output: Connect to device under test using appropriate coaxial cable. Modulation Inputs: Connect external modulation sources. Reference: Connect to external 10MHz reference for system synchronization. Control Interfaces: USB for computer control, GPIB for automated test systems.

1. Ensure all devices are powered off before making connections.
2. Use only 50Ω coaxial cables for RF connections.
3. Match impedance on all connections to prevent reflections.
4. Secure all connections with proper torque (BNC: 0.9 N·m).

Tip: Use high-quality cables and connectors to maintain signal integrity, especially above 1GHz.

Operation Modes

Supports continuous wave (CW), modulated output, sweep, and list modes.

1. CW Mode: Set fixed frequency and amplitude.
2. Modulated Output: Select AM, FM, PM, or pulse modulation with parameters.
3. Sweep Mode: Configure frequency or amplitude sweeps with start/stop points, step size, and dwell time.
4. List Mode: Program sequence of frequencies/amplitudes for complex test sequences.
5. Store/Recall: Save up to 100 instrument states to memory.
6. Preset: Return to factory default settings.

WARNING! Do not exceed maximum safe input levels on any port. Allow warm-up time (30 minutes) for specified accuracy.

Remote Control Interface

SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) command set supported via USB and GPIB.

Basic Commands: *IDN? (identification), FREQuency (set frequency), POWer (set amplitude), MODulation (configure modulation). Example: "FREQ 1GHZ" sets frequency to 1GHz. "POW -10DBM" sets output power to -10dBm.

Programming Examples: Provided for LabVIEW, MATLAB, and Python. Interface Settings: Configure baud rate (RS-232), GPIB address, USB parameters.

Maintenance & Calibration

Perform annual calibration for specified accuracy. Clean exterior with dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasives.

Calibration Procedure: Access CALIBRATION menu, follow on-screen instructions using traceable calibration standards. Record calibration date and certificate.

CAUTION! Calibration should be performed by qualified personnel only. Unplug unit before cleaning. Do not open covers - no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; may cause interference in residential areas. CE Compliant: Meets European EMC Directive. Safety: Designed to meet UL 61010-1, CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1, IEC 61010-1. Copyright © 2023 Pni Instruments; all trademarks property of their respective owners. For support, visit www.pni-instruments.com or contact 1-800-555-4231.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No RF output	Output disabled/attenuator setting	Check RF ON/OFF setting; verify attenuation not set to maximum.
Frequency inaccurate	Reference source/calibration	Check reference source selection; perform calibration.
High phase noise	External interference	Check grounding; move away from noise sources; use shielded cables.
Modulation not working	Settings/connections	Verify modulation is enabled; check external modulation cable connections.
Remote interface not responding	Cables/settings	Check cable connections; verify interface settings (GPIB address, baud rate).
Display dim or unreadable	Backlight/contrast	Adjust display contrast in SYSTEM menu; check ambient lighting.
Unit overheats	Ventilation blocked	Ensure adequate clearance around vents; clean air filters if equipped.

Reset: SYSTEM menu > Factory Reset (returns to default settings).

Service: 1-800-555-4231; www.pni-instruments.com/support