Freedom R8100 SERIES, Operator'S Manual

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2 OPERATION
2.1 Overview
The R8100 is operated using an intuitive and easy to navigate system of front panel keys and menu driven
display interface. Dedicated navigation (BLUE) keys on the front panel enable the primary operating
modes. Functions within the main operating modes have an associated display area where important
operational settings and measurements are grouped for easy viewing (see figure 3.1.1-1). The groupings
include the RF Zone, Audio Zone, Display Zone and Meter Zone. These “Operating Zones” are
highlighted when active for user entry as shown in figure 3.1.1-2 for the RF Zone. Menus next to the soft
keys on the right and bottom of the display show the Zone settings available for adjustment. Pressing a
soft key menu brings up a data entry window or additional submenus as required.
The primary operating modes of the R8100 are controlled by the following blue navigation buttons left of
the ANTENNA port on the front panel:
Monitor
RF receiver mode with frequency coverage from 250 kHz to 3 GHz. Provides signal strength, frequency
accuracy, and other metering results while decoding the modulation content of incoming RF carriers to
produce a recovered baseband signal. Additional analysis provided by spectrum analyzer and modulation
scopes.
Generate
RF generator mode with frequency coverage from 250 kHz to 3 GHz. Produces an RF carrier with user
selected output level, modulation type (AM, FM, etc), and tone encoding formats.
Duplex
Duplex mode allowing simultaneous operation and independent control of the generator and receiver.
Instrument
Directly accesses a full screen version of graphically displayed test functions such as the spectrum
analyzer, tracking generator and oscilloscope.
Test
Recall or save operator preset analyzer settings and access application specific test functions.
Settings
System configuration mode for viewing and entering general operating parameters for the R8100 such as
the date/time, network/port settings for remote control, etc.
2.1.1 Basic navigation and operator control
Status information is displayed at the bottom of the display, listed from left to right:, battery state, current
test mode, message bar, and RF On/Off state.
Pressing a navigation button places the R8100 into the labeled operating mode or screen and presents
related information on the display. Figure 3.1.1-1 shows the R8100 in Monitor mode after pressing the
Monitor navigation button