Avoid Touching Connectors with Bare Hands
Avoid touching connector mating planes with bare hands. Natural skin oils and microscopic
dirt particles are difficult to remove.
Observe Pin Depth of Mating Connectors
Make sure to use the proper connectors to mate with the NI 5683.
NI recommends that you use precision or industrial grade Type-N connectors or that you use
SMA connectors when using the Type N-to-SMA adapter. Always check the pin depth of a
connector before use to determine if they are out of the specified range.
Avoid Lateral Pressure
Never put lateral pressure on the center pin of the connector.
Avoid Overtorquing Connectors
Do not overtorque connectors; doing so may damage the connector center pin. Always use a
1 N · m torque wrench when tightening connectors. Never use pliers. Never tighten the
connectors, adapters, or cables such that the center pin rotates.
Avoid Applying Excessive Power
The NI 5683 is rated for a specific maximum continuous input power. Exceeding the
maximum input power level permanently damages the internal components. Before making
connections, verify the maximum input levels labeled below the ports on the module front
panel.
Avoid Mechanical Shock
Precision connectors are designed to withstand years of normal bench handling. Handle the
connectors carefully and avoid dropping them. Mechanical shock significantly reduces their
service life.
Clean Connectors Carefully
Dirt and other contamination on the connector interfaces can affect the performance of the RF
components. To clean the connector interfaces, use only pure isopropyl alcohol as a cleaning
solvent. Do not use excessive amounts of alcohol, as this prolongs drying time. Apply the
alcohol with a foam-tipped swab instead of cotton swabs, because the cotton can become
lodged in the connector.
Use low-pressure compressed air to remove foreign particles and to dry the connector. After
cleaning, verify that the center pin has not been bent or damaged.
Store Connectors Properly
When not in use, keep the connectors covered with the dust cap included in the NI 5683.
Related Information
Refer to the RF Connector Care white paper for more information about proper connector
care.
NI 5683 Getting Started Guide
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© National Instruments
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