Avoid overpowering the power sensor
- Avoid burning the power sensor by having some idea of the signal level to be measured with the sensor.
- Before turning on or turning off the connected equipment or the DUT, reduce the signal level to the minimum safety level.
- Properly apply a DC block, limiter or external attenuator as needed.
Read the warning labels and specifications
- Do not exceed the values provided in the specifications guide or as indicated by the yellow warning labels on the power sensor and meter.
- Refer to the specification guide for conditions required to meet the listed specification.
Protect the RF input connector
- Be careful not to bend, bump or flex any device under test (DUT) connected to the input of the analyzer (such as filters, attenuators, or large cables).
- Ensure externally connected items are properly supported (not freely suspended) from the input.
- Always use torque wrench and gauge tools for connecting RF connectors.
Follow proper RF cable and connector care
- Avoid repeated bending of cables. A single sharp bend can damage a cable instantly.
- Limit the number of connections and disconnections to reduce wear.
- Inspect the connectors prior to use; look for dirt, nicks, and other signs of damage or wear. A bad connector can ruin the good connector instantly.
- Clean dirty connectors to prevent poor electrical connections or damage to the connector.
Ensure proper grounding
- Always use the three-prong AC power cord supplied with the power meter.
- Proper grounding of the instrument will prevent a build-up of electrostatic charge which may be harmful to the instrument and the operator.
- Do not damage the earth-grounding protection by using an extension cable, power cable, or autotransformer without a protective ground conductor.
- Check AC power quality and polarity; typical AC voltage required is 100 V, 120 V, 220 V ± 10% or 240 V +5%/–10%.
Follow electrostatic discharge precautions
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage or destroy electronic components. Whenever possible, conduct testing at a static-safe workstation. Keep electrostatic-generating materials at least one meter away from all components. Before connecting any coaxial cable to instrument, momentarily short the center and outer conductors of the cable together to ground.
- Always put connector cap on the unused power sensor for preventing ESD.
Check for proper temperature and humidity
- Keep power sensor and meter in a clean and dry environment. Temperature for typical storage condition is between –40 and 75 °C, humidity < 95 % RH.
- Ensure proper ventilation among racks. Optimal operating temperature is 23 to –5 °C, always keep instrument ambient temperature at < 30 °C.
- Cooling vents and fans should be inspected and cleaned frequently
