About the Reference Level The sensitivity of the system depends on the input attenuator setting. This setting is determined by the Reference Level (Ref. Level) parameter. High measurement sensitivity avoids falsification of the results due to noise generated internally by the device. On the other hand, it is important that the device is not overloaded (saturated). Saturation can also be caused by signals outside the frequency band, e.g. high-power radio transmitters when measuring mobile telephone signals. The reference level setting covers up to 25 dB depending on the attached components (handle, type of antenna, etc.) and is coupled to the setting of the input attenuator (Atten.). The input attenuator can be matched ideally to the measurement signal by means of its fine adjustment in steps of 0.5 dB. At the highest reference level setting, Atten = 2 dB; at the most sensitive reference level, Atten = 0 dB. It is possible to decouple the reference level and the input attenuator indirectly using the Y-Scale Ref parameter in the Display menu. |
Tab the Ref. Level or Attenuator button to change the setting.
About the +5 dB / -5 dB buttons You can use the +5 dB / -5 dB buttons to check for over modulation and to rapidly change the values in 5 dB steps. The buttons are only enabled if the change is possible in the selected direction. The Y scale is fixed as soon as you make a change using the +5 dB / -5 dB buttons so that changes in level are easier to see. As well as controlling overload, the +5 dB / -5 dB offset can also be used to distinguish an actual measurement signal from an intrinsic spurious signal (Spurious). Regardless of the reference level setting, the measurement signal will display the same level value until compression occurs from overloading. In contrast, the displayed value of an intrinsic spurious signal will change each time the reference level is changed (RL +5 dB: displayed value increases by +5 dB as well). |
Tap the +5 dB or -5 dB button to increase or decrease the reverence level and attenuator settings in 5 dB steps.
The reference level offset allows for compensating connected components like a probe head. Attenuation means positive values, amplification negative. Example: Probe head, 5 dB attenuation = +5 dB offset
Tap to enter the offset.
Tap to select a signal input.
For more information about signal inputs see Top side panel with connectors (for Handheld) or Back_3320 (for Remote unit).
The unit in which the power level is displayed.
Tap the upper button to select a unit from the dropdown list.
Tap the lower button to switch offset On / Off.