NI RF Power Meters Getting Started Guide
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Observe Pin Depth of Mating Connectors
Make sure to use the proper connectors to mate with the NI RF power meter. 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 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.
Avoid Applying Excessive Power
The NI RF power meter is rated for a specific maximum continuous input power. Exceeding the
maximum input power level permanently damages the internal components.
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 denatured alcohol as a cleaning solvent. Do not
use excessive amounts of alcohol, as this prolongs drying time. 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.
Tip
Most cotton swabs are too large to fit in the smaller connector types. In these cases, remove
most of the cotton and then twist the remaining cotton tightly. Ensure that the remaining cotton does
not become lodged in the connector, and verify that no cotton or other foreign material remains in the
connector after cleaning. Cotton swabs of the appropriate size can be purchased through a medical
or laboratory supply center.
Store Connectors Properly
When not in use, keep the connectors covered with the dust cap included in the NI RF power meter
shipping kit.
8. Programming the NI RF Power Meter
You can acquire data with the NI RF power meter by using the NI-568x soft front panel (SFP), or you
can control the NI RF power meter programmatically with an ADE using the NI-568x instrument driver.
In addition, you can run the NI-568x examples to demonstrate the functionality of the device.
NI-568x SFP
The NI-568x SFP is a software representation of a traditional benchtop power meter. Launch the
NI-568x SFP to use the NI RF power meter interactively. You can launch the NI-568x SFP from
Start»All Programs»National Instruments»NI-568x»NI-568x Soft Front Panel
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