Harmonic Spurious

Harmonics are signal impurities that occur at integer multiples of a fundamental signal. For example, the 2nd harmonic frequency is two times the fundamental frequency. In this test, a spectrum analyzer measures the power of a harmonic component relative to the power of the fundamental frequency component.

The spectrum analyzer and the signal generator are both tuned to the harmonic frequency and a reference amplitude measurement is made. Then, the signal generator is tuned to the fundamental frequency with the power level unchanged. The spectrum analyzer measures the resulting harmonic response relative to the reference amplitude.

Instrument

Critical Specifications for This Test

Recommended Model

Spectrum Analyzer

None

E4440A, E4443A, E4445A, E4446A, E4448A,
8565E, 8565EC

10 dB Attenuator

None

8491A Opt 010

 

Connections and Setup Procedures

All test equipment requires a 30 minute warm-up period to ensure accurate performance.

In the following test setup, direct cable and adapter connections are designated as solid lines. Changeable cable and adapter connections are designated as dashed lines.

 

Connect all test equipment as shown.

  1. Connect GPIB cables to all GPIB-controlled test equipment.

  2. While performing this performance test, follow all instructions on the controller display.