How can I setup E5070B to display a trace on Smith Chart of the response of a variable RF matching network? As network variable component values are changed (like variable capacitors being turned manually) I want the analyzer to display the impedance curve (S11) that I traverse as the cap is changing but while the frequency is fixed (zero span).
In order for a network analyzer to do this, iit would have to be capable of simulataneously:
a. sweeping in what is known as "CW-time sweep" mode plus
b. set up to do a "manual trigger on point" .
In CW-time sweep mode, the analyzer is set to a single frequency and the data is displayed versus time (similar to an oscilloscope). Then one could set up the analyzer for "manual trigger on point" - where each triggered measurement point, in your case, would correspond to a manually- tuned setting of your matching network. Unfortunately the ENA is not capable of doing a CW-time sweep and our 8753ES VNA though it has this capability- the " trigger on pt" function is not supported/available in this sweep mode.
In lieue of the above, the Agilent ENA factory support- recommends a different approach for you to consider. And that would be to use a sample VBA program for port matching adjustment using the ENA's "fixture simulator" . This sample program was developed by one of our applications engineers in Japan.
I will attempt to attach/post a zip file (that contains the VBA program and and small Powerpoint presentation). If the posting of this attachment does not work, you can reach me at the Americas Technical Contact Center (Tel: 1- 800-829-4444(U.S.) or e-mail your request (via the Agilent Web) at: http://contact.tm.agilent.com/Agilent/t ... Email.html