Spectrum Analyzer Extender (SAX)

Spectrum Analyzer Extension Modules

Description
Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) Spectrum Analyzer Extension (SAX) modules provide high performance broadband down-conversion and frequency extension of microwave spectrum analyzers into the THz range. VDI SAX modules offer full waveguide band coverage and are available from WR28 (26 to 40 GHz) to WR1.0 (750 to 1100 GHz) with additional bands under development. 
 
For spectrum analyzer extension mode, this turn-key, sweepable solution is compatible with most modern spectrum analyzers with external mixer option. For block down- and up-conversion, the SAX modules can be driven by an LO signal generator that meets the input frequency and power requirements. Contact VDI for spectrum analyzer extension compatibility.
Standard Features
– Full waveguide band coverage
– Low-conversion loss and noise figure
– Broadband IF up to 40 GHz for block down-conversion.
– 6″ x 3.5″ x 1.5″ enclosure suitable for standalone operation or mounting on optical tables and probes
– 9V DC power supply included
Options
– IF input port for block up-conversion
– Amplifiers and filters for use with up-conversion option
– External Micrometer driven variable attenuator (~0-30dB)
– Output horn antenna for free space coupling
– Waveguide test port extensions (1″ and 2″ available)
– High Sensitivity (Please contact VDI for more information) 
 
    VDI Mini SAX Standard Product List
   VDI Part # Band
(GHz)
 


 Typical SSB Conversion
Loss (dB)

Maximum IF    Frequency
(Typical, GHz)
 
Intrinsic Mixer*,**
WR0.65SAX-M1,100 – 1,500 33  40 
WR1.0SAX-M750 – 1,1002540
WR1.5SAX-M500 – 750 18 40 
WR2.2SAX-M330 – 500  14  40 
WR2.8SAX-M260 – 400  13  40 
WR3.4SAX-M220 – 330  12 40
WR4.3SAX-M170 – 260  11  26 
WR5.1SAX-M140 – 220  11  22 
WR6.5SAX-M110 – 170  10  17 
WR8.0SAX-M90 – 140  10  14 
WR10SAX-M75 – 110 10  11 
WR12SAX-M60 – 90  10  9 
WR15SAX-M50 – 75107.5
WR19SAX-M40 – 609 6 
WR28SAX-M 26 – 40 94

 *Intrinsic mixer conversion loss is measured before any IF amplification.
 **Maximum conversion loss of WR-15, WR-12 and WR-10 SAX-M is 4dB at the
 High IF Port after IF amplification.
 † For block down-conversion mode only. Maximum IF bandwidth is limited to 20 GHz when
 up-conversion option is added.
 For more information about the Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL), please refer to the
 SAX Product manual located on the Resources tab.

Mechanical Drawings
For Mini SAX (SAX 899 and lower), Old, Discontinued Units:
WR28 to WR19:  .pdf  and  .stp
WR15 to WM-250:  .pdf  and  .stp
 
For Mini SAX (SAX 900 and higher):
WR28 to WR19 (with feet):  .pdf  and  .stp  
WR28 to WR19 (without feet):  .pdf  and  .stp
WR15 to WM-250 (with feet):  .pdf  and  .stp
WR15 to WM-250 (without feet):  .pdf  and  .stp
 
Relevant Links 
 
Compatible with Keysight Signal Analyzers: 
VDI SAX modules are compatible with Keysight PXA, MXA, and EXA signal analyzers. Click here for more information.
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