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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

DG8SAQ Vector Network Analyser - VNWA2.3 Kit Assembly Manual www.SDR-Kits.net

Contents:

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1.

Introduction

2.

Important Information

3.

Basic VNWA2.x Specification

4.

Kit Construction Preparation

5.

Part 1: Power Supplies and Interface

6.

Part 2: DDS Power Supplies and DDS Components

7.

Part 3: DDS Installation and commissioning

8.

Part 4: VNWA Bridge and Transmit Circuit

9.

Part 5: Receiver and MUX Circuit

10.

Part 6: Final Installation and Commissioning

11.

Bill Of Materials

12.

Appendices

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 1 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

1. INTRODUCTION This design for a Vector Network Analyser was developed by Thomas Baier DG8SAQ over many years. First publication was in CQDL issue 3,4 and 5 in 2007 and in QEX in March/April 2007. Further work and additional features since first publication resulted in an article “A Small, Simple, USB-Powered Vector Network Analyser Covering 1 kHz to 1.3 GHz in QEX January/February 2009. A copy of this publication, available with permission of the ARRL, who publishes QEX journal, can be found on this link This manual covers the construction of the VNWA2.x based on various kits of parts obtainable from SDR-Kits including a Printed Circuit Board designed by the Author in response to enquiries received from interested VNWA kit builders.. 2. IMPORTANT KIT BUILDING INFORMATION: Would-be kit builders are advised that this project should only be undertaken by those who have previous skills in successfully have built an advanced electronic kit using SMD components. Please check whether you have relevant experience with the following before attempting to build this kit. •

Successfully constructed and commissioned an Advanced Electronic project using Surface Mount Devices (SMD) with 0.5mm pin spacing and 0603 components as a minimum whilst observing Electro Static Device (ESD) handling procedures.

•

Working knowledge of Electronic Circuitry at intermediate level

•

Access to tools such as Temperature Controlled Soldering Station with 0.4mm tip, a 50W soldering iron with 3mm diameter tip and Optical Inspection Aids for 1.8x... 2x magnification for general assembly work. An optical aid with minimum of 3x magnification is required for Final Inspection and Faultfinding.

•

Some experience fault finding using Multimeter, Oscilloscope and Frequency Counter

•

Reasonable familiarity installing and operating Personal Computer Applications

•

Note: the VNWA2.x requires a Personal Computer with either Microsoft XP or Windows 2000 Operating System equipped with a standard Parallel Line Printer Port and a standard sound card with stereo “Line in” connection to operate the VNWA2.x.

•

Caution!

•

Caution!! Please Caution that operation up to 1.3 GHz requires configuration of the AD9859 DDS clocks to be in excess of the manufacturers specification which invalidates warranty of these devices. Although satisfactory operation has been tested by a number of VNWA Beta kit builders – no responsibility is accepted for failures.

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USB to Parallel Port adapters do not work due to issues with latency

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 2 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

3. VNWA2.x BASIC SPECIFICATION •

Coverage from 1 kHz to 500 MHz with dynamic range of up to 90dB – Useful performance up to 1.3 GHz with reduced accuracy. However see Caution! in chapter 2.

•

S-Parameter S11, S12, S21 & S22, VSWR

•

Component Measurements – Resistance, Admittance Capacitance, Inductance & Quality Factor (Q)

•

Time domain & Gating in Time domain

•

Logarithmic and Listed sweep

•

Matching Tool and Complex Calculator

•

user defined S-parameter calculus

•

optional S-parameter test set Operational Requirements:

• Power Supply: Powered from +5V 500mA Power Supply or directly from Personal Computer USB port capable of sourcing 500mA. • Personal Computer with minimum 1GHz processor and 64 Kbyte memory recommended and must be equipped with a STANDARD Parallel Printer Port and a standard sound card with stereo line-in under Microsoft XP or Windows 2000 Operating System. Installation of DG8SAQ VNWA Application required. Note: See Appendix 2 which has a procedure to check the Parallel Printer port is suitable to drive the VNWA Note: However that VNWA application has been successfully operated on Pentium III Laptop with 600 MHz Processor, this cannot be guaranteed. • PCB size 100mm x 60mm VNWA Kit Support A Yahoo Group has been setup for the benefit of VNWA kit builders and users alike. It provides a forum for VNWA users to share their experiences in building and operating DG8SAQ's design. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/VNWA/ Tom DG8SAQ and Jan G0BBL are members of this forum and will make reasonable efforts to contribute to this forum on an ongoing basis. Anybody who is is assembling and using the VNWA is welcome to join this group.

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Kit Assembly Manual Errors and updates No responsibility is assumed for any errors in this document. All information is given in good faith based on information gathered from Beta Kit builders. If you become aware of any errors or have any suggestions to improve the information in this document please email Jan via [email protected] New Document revisions will be announced in the VNWA group and on the SDR-Kits.net Website. Other Links for Information DG8SAQ VNWA Home page: http://www.mydarc.de/dg8saq/VNWA21/index.html SDR-Kits VNWA Home page: http://www.SDR-Kits.net/VNWA/

Copyright Notice: This project was initiated and designed by Prof. Dr. Thomas Baier DG8SAQ, who holds copyright to this design. Reproduction of the Printed Circuit Board and the VNWA circuit schematic is not permitted without written permission of the copyright holder. Compliance is agreed by accepting the SDR-Kits Ordering Terms and Conditions Acknowledgments: Tom - DG8SAQ Dan – M0DFI Jan G0BBL

– Concept – Realization & VNWA Software & Helpfiles – First design of Printed Circuit Board – Kit Production – Kit Assembly Documentation -

Also thanks also to several VNWA Beta Builders for their constructive feedback.

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 4 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

4. KIT ASSEMBLY PREPARATION 4.1 Introduction: Assembling the VNWA kit will involve the soldering of tiny surface-mount components. This is not difficult but good eyesight, accuracy and patience are needed. You will need a well lit and clear work surface, a suitable temperature soldering station with a small tip, some fine (for example 28SWG – 0.4mm) resin cored solder and a pair of long tweezers, The type of tweezers should allow you to hold the component GENTLY, otherwise the tweezers may act as a rocket launcher for tiny the SMD parts!!. It is highly recommended that the PCB is placed in a vice or on an anti-static foam surface (supplied in Kit 3) so the PCB does not move around. Another advantage is that small SMD components are visible on either an all black or all white surface. The soldering operation starts by identifying the pair of lands on the PCB that the surface mount component will be soldered to. Melt a small blob of solder on to one of the lands as a coat. Then, using the tweezers, pick up the surface mount component and place it across the lands and melt the solder on the pre soldered land whilst gently pressing down the component. This should effectively hold the component in place whilst you solder it to the un-soldered land. Then resolder it to the first land. Next check that the joints are good using a magnifying glass. This all sounds very complicated but it works in practice. If this is your first time using SMD you may wish to find a junk computer card and practice on it first. There are also a number of excellent tutorials on the internet One of these is a video, courtesy of Steve Weber KD1JV, who shows both methods. http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=Ah5HEjDTHUo&feature=channel_page No, you do not need an oven or an SM workstation. A good temperature controlled soldering iron is sufficient. Some other pointers • • •

•

Only remove 1 SMD component from the strip Only have one value of SMD components open on the desk If in any doubt check the value of the SMD components using a multimeter: The resistors supplied by SDR -Kits will have the value printed on the top which should be visible under x3 magnification. SMD capacitors supplied by SDR-Kits are colour coded as per Bill of Materials (BOM) Only work on building the kit when you are in the right frame of mind.

Good luck and enjoy!!

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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4.1

DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Bill of Materials Check

[ ] Depending on which Kit has been purchased check the contents of the items supplied as per the BOM in 11. BILL OF MATERIALS. Caution: Observe Electro Static Precautions when handling ESD sensitive components. Do not remove from packaging until required.

Add Photos of Kit 1, Kit 2 and Kit 3 supplied below

4.2

Printed Circuit Board Preparation

[ ] When fitting the SMA connector to the PCB a gap will exist as shown in fig 2. As result the finished PC may not fit properly inside the standard box specified. To correct: rasp 2 small slots for each SMA Connector with a small needle file. The SMA Center Pin should fit flush with the Center PCB track without gap as shown fig 3. Note: Do not solder connectors until called for later. [ ] Repeat for 2nd SMA connector. Note: Do not solder connectors until called for later.

Fig 2: Gap between SMA connector and PCB

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Fig 3: Gap removed between SMA connector center pin and PCB

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 6 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

5. PART 1 KIT ASSEMBLY – Power Supplies and Interface In this section we will install the +5V DC Input and Switched Power Converter U1 (MAX532) which supplies +8.25V to regulator U3 (78L06). U3 provides +6V DC power to the TX and RX circuitry. U2 (LE33CZ) is connected to +5V input and supplies +3.3V to the DDS Synthesizers. []

Orientate the PCB as in fig 4 below and set the soldering station to 330°C = 630°F

[]

Install resistors 1K2 (122) resistors

[]

Install resistor

R7 (51K Ohm marking 513)

[]

Install resistor

R8 (270K Ohm marking 274)

[]

Install resistor

R10 (0R marking 000)

[]

Install capacitors

C1 (1uF 0805 blue)

[]

Install capacitors

C3 (220nF green) C4 (1nF black)

[]

Caution: Observe ESD precautions and correct orientation in the following 2 steps as shown in fig 4.

[]

Install diodes

D1 and D2 (MBR020L marking 1B28) see stripe in fig 4.

[]

Install ICs

U1 (MAX632)

[]

Caution: Check orientation of the Capacitors in the next step. For Tantanium capacitors supplied in the Kit the BLACK STRIPE indicates the + terminal. For the Aluminimum 100uF capacitor the BLACK STRIPE is the – terminal

[]

Install capacitors as shown in fig 4 . C2 (100uF Elect Black stripe is - terminal) C97 (10uF Tant black striple is + terminal) C5 (33uF or 47uF Tant supplied Black stripe is + terminal)

[]

Caution: Inductor L1 (330uH) is fragile – Install L1 using minimum heat to prevent damage to this component - do not attempt to reposition this component after soldering.

[]

Install connector P1 (4 pin 0.1”)

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R1, R4,

R2, R5,

R3, R6

C9 (1uF 0805 blue) C6 (220nF)

U2 (LE33)

C7 (220nF)

U3 (78L06)

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 7 of 38

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[]

DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

This completes installation of Part 1 – Check all components and joints with a x3 Magnification

fig 4: Part 1 Component placing of Power Supply and Interface circuitry PART 1 Commissioning and testing []

Caution: Observe Polarity: Connect a 5V Power Supply, capable of supplying 500ma to P1 pin 1 (square pad) via a 0-200mA DC Current Meter in series. The Supply – Terminal is be connected to P1 Pin 4.

[]

Apply 5V and note current consumption should be approx 15mA

[]

With DC Voltmeter, check the following voltages: C97 = +3.3V C5 = +8.3V C9 = +5.9...+6.3V

C2 = +4.6V...+5.5V

Faultfinding TBA END OF PART 1 KIT ASSEMBLY

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

6. PART 2 KIT ASSEMBLY – DDS Components, Regulators and 36 MHz Clock Important Decision: Thomas Baier, the VNWA designer, who has built a number of VNWA PCBs suggests to build the PCB in the order as shown in Part 2 and Part 3 below. This will install the Voltage Regulators and all the components for both regulators first before installing the DDS chips U13 and U16. Other constructors do prefer to solder the DDS devices first. This a consideration if they want to use hot air soldering station together with a hot plate or are concerned about their ability to solder the DDS chips within a restricted area surrounded by other components. If you wish to install the DDS first then proceed to Part 3, paras 7.1 to 7.4 before returning to para 6.1 below The choice is yours....

6.1 Introduction In this section we will install and test the Voltage Regulators U19, U20, U21 and U22 supplying +1.8V DC to U13, the RF DDS and U16 the LO DDS. We also build and test the 36 MHz Clock and install the components around U13 and U16. Installation and commissioning of the DDS devices is carried out in chapter 7. Part 3. 6.2 []

Installation of components

Print Fig 6 and Fig 7 Component placement pages for easy reference. Note: Components marked BLACK are shown in fig 6. Location of Components marked RED are shown in Fig 7.

[]

Set soldering station to 330°C = 630°F

[]

Install transistor Q1 (BC848C),

[]

Install 220nF (0603 green) capacitors as follows: C55, C60, C61, C66, C68, C72, C79, C80, C81, C84, C85, C86, C92

[]

Inductor L2 (820uH 0805 Green/Red)

Install 1uF (0805 blue) capacitors as follows: C59, C64, C65, C77, C78, C91,

[]

Install capacitors

C52 (15pF red/black) C57 (4.7pF blue/green) C58 (100nF red)

[]

Install resistors

R65 (49.9R) R75 (49.9R)

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C62, C75, C82, C87,

C63, C76, C83, C90,

C69, C94,

C74, C95

C56 (27pF red/green) C73 (4.7pF) C71 (100nF)

R66 (49.9R) R76 (49.9R)

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 9 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

R54 (100R) R56 (100R) R60 (100R) R68 (100R)

R55 (100R) R57 (100R) R67 (100R) R69 (100R)

R61 (1K) R87 (1K5) R94 (1K5)

R71 (1K) R90 (1K5) R96 (1K5)

R64 (3K9) R89 (3K9) R78 (10K) R58 (12K)

R74 (3K9) R93 (3K9) R79 (10K) R59 (15K)

R70 (100R)

R86 (3K9) R95 (3K9)

[]

Install Crystal X1 (12 MHz)

[]

Caution: Observe ESD precautions and correct orientation in the following step

[]

Install IC regulators as shown in Appendix 3 U19 (LM317), U20 (LM317), U21 (LM317), U22 (LM317),

[]

Final inspection - Check all components and joints with a x3 Magnifier 6. 4

[]

Commissioning and Testing of DDS Voltage Regulators and Clock . With Ohm Meter, check there is >10 Ohm resistance to GND on the following points U19 pin 2, U19 pin 3, U20 pin 2, U20 Pin 3, U21 pin 2, U21 pin 3, U22 pin 2, U22 pin 3 If measuring a lower value than 5 Ohm, check for potential short circuits.

[]

Install resistors

[]

Caution: observe Polarity: Connect a 5V Power Supply, capable of supplying 500ma to P1 pin 1 (square pad) via a 0-200mA DC Current Meter in series. The Supply – Terminal is be connected to P1 Pin 4.

[]

Switch on +5V Supply and note current consumption which should be between 15...20mA. If current consumption is much higher, check for short circuit or a problem with IC19...U22

[]

Check the following voltages. Note: tolerance of +/- 2% may be possible.

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R85 (0R)

R88 (0R)

R91, (0R)

R92 (0R)

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 10 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

C97 = +3.3V C9 = +5.9...6.1V

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

C5 = +8.2...8.3V C2 = +4.5V...5V

[]

Connect a 47 Ohm 0.4W resistor in parallel to the terminals of DC Voltmeter to provide a suitable load (This is readily achieved with lab cables or jumper leads). Switch on 5V Supply and with DC Voltmeter check the voltage measured over C69 is between +1.77V...1.81V DC. Troubleshoot circuitry around U19 if reading is not within these limits.

[]

As described in the previous step, check the voltage measured over C91 is between +1.77V...1.81V DC. Troubleshoot circuitry around U20 if reading is not within these limits.

[]

As in previous step, check the voltage measured over C94 is between +1.77V...1.81V DC. Troubleshoot circuitry around U21 if reading is not within these limits.

[]

As in previous step, check the voltage measured over C95 is between +1.77V...1.81V DC. Troubleshoot circuitry around U22 if reading is not within these limits.

[]

Use a 50 MHz Oscilloscope with sensitivity set to 10mV/Division check whether the Crystal is oscillating by connecting the x10 probe to the junction of Q1 Collector and L2. Fig xx (to be added) shows the expected wave form. Output is about 500mV pkpk. Alternatively you may use a General Coverage Receiver to listen for Clock Signal by tuning between 35.85 MHz and 36.00 MHz. (Typically the 12MHz Fundamental Crystal supplied in the kit will oscillate on 35.875 MHz in the overtone oscillator circuit used.

[]

Switch off +5V Supply and remove 47 Ohm parallel resistor from the terminals of the DC Voltmeter

END OF PART 2 KIT ASSEMBY AND TESTING

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Fig 6: Component Placing of RF DDS, 36 MHz Crystal Oscillator and associated + 1.8V DC Regulators Note: Correct orientation of U13 AD9859 is indicated by circle in U13 top right hand corner

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

7. PART 3 KIT ASSEMBLY – DDS Installation and commissioning 7.1

Introduction

In this section we install the RF DDS U13 and perform the required commissioning checks for correct operation. 7.2

DDS Installation Installation of the AD9859 DDS is without doubt the most challenging part of VNWA construction, especially as errors are not always easy to correct. Here is some advise to get it right: • • • • • • •

7.3

Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the installation procedure before proceeding Take appropriate ESD precautions Observe correct orientation of the AD9859 indicated by a circle in Fig 6. Do not put any force on DDS pins as most likely the pins will bend and may break. Do not remove AD9859 chip from the package unless called for Provide support for your elbows and wrists on table to steady your hand soldering x2.5 or x 3 magnification and good lighting is essential Installation of U13 – RF DDS See Fig 6.

[]

Caution: Observe ESD precautions and correct orientation.

[]

Orientate the PCB as in fig 6 and set soldering station to 330°C = 630°F

[]

Apply a minimum of solder and coat PCB pad 1 of AD9859 (U13) -

[]

Carefully remove AD9859 from packaging and place on top of PCB and align until all pins are centered over the PCB pads.

[]

Now apply heat to pin 1 and solder pin 1 to pad 1 of PCB whilst gently pressing U13 down

[]

Re-check alignment of U13 pins to PCB pads. If not correct repeat heat pin 1 and reposition U13 making sure only slight force is applied

[]

Once all pins of U13 are aligned with corresponding PCB pads, solder pin 25 to pad 25 using minimum amount of 0.4mm solder. Reheat pin 25 whilst pressing down U13.

[]

Visually check alignment of U13 pins to PCB pads with x3 magnification. If corrections are needed, then reheat pin 25 and gently realign U13.

[]

Next solder pin 13 and pin 37 whilst applying a minimum amount of solder or alternatively just use flux. Reheat and gently press down the corner of U13.

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Note: Two options are available to solder the remaining pins of the DDS U13: • Recommendation by VNWA designer is to solder the DDS pins without any solder but using flux and heating the pin. • Alternatively apply an absolute minimum amount of 0.4mm solder to the joint. []

Solder all other pins of U13 using either method. If solder bridges between pins then remove using solder wick braid. Following procedure may be used. Solder Bridge removal procedure – • • •

[]

Set soldering station to max temperature and allow time for tip to heat up. Place clean end of solder wick over joint and gently apply heat to the braid and give it time absorb excess solder. Remove soldering iron and then solder wick. Repeat if required. Perform final inspection of all pins of U13 with x3 magnification. NOTE: DO NOT SOLDER the THERMAL PAD until the DDS has been fully commissioned

7. 4

Installation of U16 – LO DDS See Fig 7.

[]

Caution:

[]

Orientate the PCB as in fig 7. below and set soldering station to 330°C = 630°F

[]

Apply a minimum of solder and coat PCB pad 1 of U16

[]

Carefully remove AD9859 from ESD packaging and place on top of PCB. Align until all pins are centered over the PCB pads.

[]

Apply heat to pin 1 and solder pin 1 to pad 1 of PCB whilst gently pressing U16 down onto the PCB.

[]

Re-check alignment of U16 pins to PCB pads. If not correct repeat heat pin 1 and reposition U16 making sure only slight force is applied

[]

Once all pins of U16 are aligned with corresponding PCB pads, solder pin 25 to pad 25 using minimum amount of 0.4mm solder. Reheat pin 25 whilst gently pressing down U16.

[]

Visually check alignment of U16 pins to PCB pads with x3 magnification. If corrections are needed, then reheat pin 25 and gently realign U16.

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Observe ESD precautions and correct orientation as per fig 7.

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

[]

Next solder pin 13 and pin 37 whilst applying a minimum amount of solder or alternatively just use flux . Reheat and gently press down the corner of U16.

Note:

Two options are available to solder the remaining pins of the DDS U16: • Recommendation by the designer is to solder the DDS pins without any solder but using flux and heating the pin. • Alternatively apply an absolute minimum amount of 0.4mm solder to the joint

[]

Solder all other pins of U16 using either method. If solder bridges between pins then remove using solder wick braid using the steps given in para 7.3

NOTE:

DO NOT SOLDER the THERMAL PAD on the bottom of the PCB until after the DDS has been fully commissioned

End of DDS Installation Procedure

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Fig 7: Component Placing of Local Oscillator DDS and associated + 1.8V DC Regulators Note: Correct orientation of U16 AD9859 is indicated by circle in U16 bottom left hand corner

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

7. 5 Commissioning of U13 RF DDS []

Note: At this stage R62, R63, R72, R73, R81 and R82 are NOT installed

[]

With Digital Multimeter set to Ohm range measure the resistance to GND on the points below. The negative test-lead from the Ohm Meter should be connected to GND Caution: Do NOT use Diode Test range C62 >100kOhm C80 >100kOhm C61 >1 MOhm If you measure less than 5 Ohm then a short circuit between the pins of U13 is the likely reason. Refer to Appendix 1. DDS Fault finding.

[]

Install resistors

[]

Caution: observe Polarity: Connect a 5V Power Supply, capable of supplying 500ma to P1 pin 1 (square pad) via a 0-200mA DC Current Meter in series. The Supply – Terminal is be connected to P1 Pin 4.

[]

Apply 5V and note current consumption should be approx 40mA...60mA. If current is outside this limit refer to Appendix 1 DDS Fault finding.

[]

If the current measured in the previous step is NOT between 40-60mA check the following voltages are present to GND. Please note: tolerance of +/- 2% may be possible. C61 = +3.3V DC C79 = +1.77V...1.81V DC C80 = +1.77V...1.81V DC

[]

Switch off +5V Supply

[]

Install Connector J1 (DB9)

7. 6

R62 (0R),

R63 (0R)

and R82 (0R)

DDS Functional Test Preparation In the next step we will test the DDS. A computer with a parallel port is required. There are two test methods to check whether the DDS is controlled by the PC and is outputting the correct frequency: Method 1: Quick check method by measuring the Current Consumption whilst changing the Clock Frequency in the DDS Test Software see Fig 5. Method 2: Monitor the DDS output on an Oscilloscope or Frequency Counter. Note: You can use the Personal Computer as an Oscilloscope. Install Scope Software (like Spectrum lab by DL4YHF), Set the DDS to generate a frequency of 1 kHz and connect DDS output to the Line input of the sound card.

[]

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Make up the parallel port data cable as shown in Appendix 2.

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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[]

DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Download the Test Software from: http://www.SDR-Kits.net/DG8SAQ/VNWA/DDS.zip or from: http://www.mydarc.de/dg8saq/hidden/DDS.zip Unzip the files DDS.exe and zlportio.sys into Directory “C:/WINDOWS/system/ to ensure the program has the necessary permissions to run or run the software in an administrator account. 7. 7

[]

DDS Functional Test Connect the parallel port of the Computer to the VNWA data connector via the data cable and apply power to the VNWA.

Fig 8: DDS Application -Setup of DDS function Test to generate 1 KHz Output

[]

Set the LPT address to the correct value for the LPT port on your PC. Set Frequency to 1000 Hz and all other fields as shown in fig 8.

[]

Method 1:

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

[]

Caution: Observe Polarity: Connect a 0-500mA DC Current Meter in series between a +5V Power Supply, capable of supplying 500ma and VNWA P1 Pin 1. The Power Supply – Terminal should be connected to VNWA P1 Pin 4 GND.

[]

Apply Power and set the the RF DDS Multiplier to 1 and note current consumption. Caution: Clock multipliers of 12 or higher invalidate manufacturer warranty.

[]

Change the RF DDS Multiplier to a value of 10. Current Consumption will increase.. Compare your measurement with the measurements shown in Table 1. Fault finding: If you do not obtain a change in current consumption check the following: • • •

Is the LPT Port address incorrect? Is DC Power applied cleanly to the VNWA and to the DDS? If in doubt insert an on/off switch in series with the DC power to the VNWA. See 11. Appendix 1 DDS Fault finding for further information U13 RF DDS U16 LO DDS Not Total Current Clock Multiplier powered Consumption mA 1 Not powered 60-100mA 8 Not powered 100-130mA 16 Not powered 160-180mA 20 Not powered 170-220mA U13 RF DDS U16 LO DDS Clock Multiplier Clock Multiplier 1 1 1 8 1 15 20 19

Current Consumption 90-130mA 130-160mA 170-220mA 280-350mA

Table 1: Total Current Consumption vs Clock Caution: Clock multipliers marked in Red invalidate manufacturer's warranty Note: U16 is not powered until R72, R73 and R81 are soldered in para 7.8

[]

Method 2:

[]

Apply +5V and connect a Frequency Counter or Oscilloscope to RF Out or RF1 Out on Fig 6. Change the Test Software setup configuration as shown in fig 8.

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Page 19 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

A Frequency counter should indicate a frequency of 1 kHz. Changing the frequency in fig 4 by operating +/-k radio buttons should change the value displayed on the Frequency counter accordingly. The Oscilloscope should display a 1 kHz sinewave with a minimum amplitude of between 120...140mV peak to peak. Note: With DDS clock set to 36 MHz (Multiplier set to 1) the maximum frequency which may be entered is approx 16 MHz as the amplitude will quickly decrease. If you wish to test the DDS at higher frequencies then the multiplier should be changed to increase the clock frequency. If you do not obtain any output check the Fault finding section in this para. 7. 8 Commissioning of U16 LO DDS []

Note: Check R72, R73 and R81 are NOT installed

[]

With Digital Multimeter set to Ohm range measure resistance to GND on the points below. The negative test-lead from the Ohm Meter should be connected to GND. Caution: Do NOT use Diode Test range C82 >100kOhm C84 >500kOhm C68 >1 MOhm If you measure less than 5 Ohm then a short circuit between the pins of U13 is the likely reason. Refer to Appendix 1 DDS Fault finding.

[]

Install resistors

[]

Caution: observe Polarity: Connect a 5V Power Supply, capable of supplying 500ma to P1 pin 1 (square pad) via a 0-200mA DC Current Meter in series. The Supply – Terminal is be connected to P1 Pin 4.

[]

Apply 5V and note current consumption should be approx 75mA...90mA. If current is outside this limit refer to Appendix 1 DDS Fault finding.

[]

If the current measured in the previous step is between 75-90mA check the following voltages are present to GND. Please note: tolerance of +/- 2% may be possible. C68= +3.3V DC C86 = +1.77V...1.81V DC C82 = +1.77V...1.81V DC

[]

Switch off +5V Supply

R72 (0R),

R73 (0R)

and R81 (0R)

7. 8 U16 DDS Functional Test: []

Repeat DDS U16 Functional test as described in Para 7.7 for U13.

END OF PART 3 KIT ASSEMBY AND TESTING

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

8. PART 4 KIT ASSEMBLY – VNWA Bridge and Transmit Section 8.1

Introduction

We now install the 50 Ohm Bridge to Output connector U4 and U5 (SA612) which mixes the Reflected Power from the bridge with the output of the LO DDS. IC U6 (SA612) mixes RF outputs from LO DDS and RF DDS to provide the 1 kHz Reference Input for processing through the Left channel of the PC Soundcard. Construction of this stage should be quite straight forward. []

Orientate the PCB as in fig 9. below and set soldering station to 330°C = 630°F

[]

Caution: Observe ESD precautions and correct IC orientation – see Fig 9.

[]

Install ICs

U5 (SA612 or NE602),

[]

Install IC

U24 (TLV2462)

[]

Install 220nF (0603) capacitors

C10, C16, C27,

C11, C17, C35,

C12, C19, C89,

[]

Install 1nF (0603) capacitors

C24,

C25,

C26,. C28,

[]

Install 100pF (0603 green/black) capacitors C18,

[]

Install resistors

R15 (2.2R) R14 (18R) R16 (47R) R17 (49.9R) R19 (82R) R12 (270R) R21 (470R) R26 (4K7) R30 (10K) R28 (15K) R37 (330K) R36 (680K)

U6 (SA612 or NE602)

C13, C20 C93,

C14, C21,

C15, C23,

C22,

R23 (47R) R18 (49.9R)

R24 (47R) R20 (49.9R)

R13 (270R) (R22 (470R) R27 (4K7) R32 (4K7) R31 (10K) R29 (15K) R34 (15K) R38 (330K) R39 (330K) R40 (680K)

R25 (49.9R)

R33 (4K7) R35 (15K)

8.2 Commissioning Tests []

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Caution: observe Polarity: Connect a 5V Power Supply, capable of supplying 500ma to P1 pin 1 (square pad) via a 0-200mA DC Current Meter in series. The Supply – Terminal is be connected to P1 Pin 4.

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 21 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

[]

Apply +5V and check total current is 100....130mA (DDS Multipliers set to x1) With both DDS multipliers set to x20 Clock current consumption rises to 300...330mA

[]

With DC Voltmeter measure to obtain: C88 = +3.1V DC, U24 pin 7 = +3.1V DC, U5 pin 8 = +6.2V DC U5 pin 4 and 5 = +5V DC,

[]

U24 pin 1 = +3.1V DC, U24 pin 8 = +6.2V DC, U6 pin 8 = +6.2V DC, U6 pin 4 & 5 = +5V DC,

Disconnect +5V Supply

END OF PART 4 KIT ASSEMBY AND TESTING

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Fig 9 Component Placing VNWA Bridge and Transmit Section

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

9. PART 5 KIT ASSEMBLY – Receiver and MUX Circuit 9.1

Introduction

The final part of the PCB construction is the Receiver Mixer U9 (NE602 or SA612) which mixes the Received RF signal from RX Port UI8 with the Local Oscillator. U10 is a two position switch which connects the Right input channel of the PC sound card to measure either the Received Power on the RX Port or the Reflected Power from the TX Port. []

Orientate the PCB as in fig 9. below and set soldering station to 330°C = 630°F

[]

Caution: Observe ESD precautions and correct orientation in the following 2 steps:

[]

Install IC

U9 (SA612 or NE602),

[]

Install IC

U10 (ISL43210)

[]

Install 220nF (0603) capacitors

C36, C42,

C37, C43,

[]

Install 1nF (0603) capacitors

C44,

C45,

[]

Install 100pF (0603) capacitors

C40

[]

Caution: Check orientation of capacitor in the next step.

[]

Install tantalum capacitor – observe black stripe (+) and install as shown in fig 10. C34 (10uF) C38 (10uF) C88 (10uF)

[]

Install resistors

NOTE:

SDR-Kits.net

R83 (0R) R43 (33R) R42 (100R) R41 (1K) R47 (22K) R50 (22K) R49 (150K)

U23 (TLV2462)

C39, C47,

R84 (0R) R44 (33R) R46 (1K) R48 (22K) R51 (22K) R52 (150K)

C41, C49,

R45 (33R) R53 (1K)

DO NOT SOLDER the THERMAL PAD U16 until the DDS has been fully commissioned

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 24 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

9.1 Commissioning Tests []

Caution: observe Polarity: Connect a 5V Power Supply, capable of supplying 500ma to P1 pin 1 (square pad) via a 0-200mA DC Current Meter in series. The Supply – Terminal is be connected to P1 Pin 4.

[]

Apply +5V and check total current is 100mA...120mA

[]

With DC Voltmeter measure to obtain: U23 pin 8 = +6.2V DC U9 pin 8 = +6.2V DC U10 pin 2 = +6.2V DC

[]

U23 pin 1 = + 3.1V DC, U9 pin 4 & 5 = +5V DC,

Disconnect +5V Supply

END OF PART 5 KIT ASSEMBY AND TESTING

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Fig 10:Component Placing Receive and MUX Section

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Page 26 of 38

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10.

DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

PART 6 KIT ASSEMBLY – Final Assembly and Commissioning 10.1

Final Assembly

[]

Measure out required length of Semi rigid coax supplied and remove 7 mm braid at each end of the cable. Next remove 4mm of teflon isolation of each end. Form the cable and fit as shown in Fig 10 below. The cable connects R25 near U5 at one end and to junction P3 and C77 at the right side of U16.

[]

Fit the 3.5mm Audio Connector - Make sure the connector is pushed down as far as possible into the PCB before soldering.

1. []

Fit the SMA Connectors – Make sure the SMA center conductor is located exactly in the middle of the PCB Pad before soldering.

[]

Soldering DDS Thermal Pads at bottom of PCB (U13 and U16) When DDS devices U13 and U16 have been tested and functioning correctly, solder the thermal pads as follows: Use a 50 Watt Soldering Iron with a FLAT bit with at least 4mm diameter. Place the solder iron bit against the Thermal Land on the bottom of the PCB and preheat for 3-5 seconds. Whilst holding the Soldering Iron in place feed in a length of 0.5mm to 0.8 mm dia resin cored solder for a further 3-5 seconds. Remove Soldering Iron after max 10 seconds. 10.2

VNWA Commissioning Preparation: It is highly recommended to download the VNWA Helpfile first and spend some time reading through this to get familiar as part of the Commissioning check

[]

Download and install VNWA Application from http://www.mydarc.de/dg8saq/VNWA21/index.html

[]

Download and review VNWA Helpfile same link

[]

Apply +4.5...6V Power to the PCB, connect the Data cable between VNWA and PC , and connect the VNWA Audio connector to the PC “Line-in” socket.

[]

Run up VNWA application, select “SETUP” screen and configure the various screens as detailed in the VNWA Helpfile Section “Configuring the Software for Usage with a DG8SAQ VNWA”

[]

Connect a 50 Ohm dummy load to the “Transmit” SMA connector and check for correct operation. (Note: Trouble shooting section will be added)

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Page 27 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

[ ]

Link the “Transmit” and “Receive” SMA with a short but high quality coax cable and check for correct operation. (Note: Trouble shooting section will be added)

[ ]

Perform a Calibration as described in the Helpfile Section “Performing a Calibration for a Two Port S-Parameter Measurement”

END OF VNWA COMMISSIONING The VNWA printed circuit board is now commissioned and ready for mounting into a suitable enclosure.

Fig 11: Bottom assembly of PCB showing installation of Semi rigid coaxial cable Also note that RF connectors are soldered to VNWA timplate housing and use of solder wick or screening outer braid from coax cable to bridge any gaps between PCB ground pads and VNWA housing

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11.

DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Bill Of Materials

VNWA Kit 1 - Bill of Materials item

Partno

PCB Inductor Inductor Crystal SMD Integrated Circuit Integrated Circuit

DG8SAQ 330uH 820nH 0805 12 MHz ISL43210 AD9859YSVZ

QTY Component QTY Used Supplied Marking 1 1 1 1 1 2

1 1 1 1 1 2

SDR-Kits Marking

Remarks

DG8SAQ Bag 1 331 2R None Green-Red 12.000 GJHH AD9859YSVZ Boxed

VNWA Kit 2 - Bill of Materials - As Kit 1 plus the following item Integrated Circuit Integrated Circuit Integrated Circuit Transistor Integrated Circuit Integrated Circuit Diode Integrated Circuit Connector Connector Connector

SDR-Kits.net

Partno TLV2462CD LE33CZ LM317L BC848C 78L06 MAX632ACSA MBR0520L SA612AD DB9 Audio Jack SMA Socket

QTY Component Marking QTY Used Supplied 2 2 2462C 1 1 LE33 4 4 LM317 1 1 8CC 1 1 78L06 1 1 MAX632 2 2 1B28 3 3 SA612A 1 1 1 1 2 2

SDR-Kits Marking

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Remarks SOIC 8 Pin TO92 TO92 SOT23 TO92 SOIC 8 Pin SOIC 8 Pin

Page 29 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

VNWA Kit 3 - Bill of Materials - As Kit 1 & 2 plus the following: Component Marking 000 2R2 180 330 470 49R9 820

SDR-Kits Marking

0R 2R2 18R 33R 47R 49R9 82R

Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1%

100R 270R 470R 1k 1k2 1k5 3k9 4k7

10 2 2 5 6 4 6 4

12 4 4 7 8 6 8 6

01A 271 471 01B 122 18B 392 472

100 271 471 102 122 152 392 472

Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1%

10k 12k 15k 22k 51k 150k 270k 330k 680k

4 1 5 4 1 2 1 3 2

6 3 7 6 3 4 3 5 4

01C 123 1BC 223 513 1BD 274 334 684

103 123 153 223 513 154 274 334 684

Capacitor 0603 Capacitor 0603 Capacitor 0603 Capacitor 0603 Capacitor 0603 Capacitor 0603 Capacitor 0603 Capacitor 0805 Capacitor Tant Capacitor Tant Capacitor Elect Resistor Axial Connector Coax Cable Solder Solder Braid Conductive foam

4.7pF NP0 15pF NP0 27pF NP0 100pF NP0 1nF NP0 100nF X7R 220nF X7R 1uF X7R 10uF 16V 33uF 16V 100uF 16V 47 Ohm 0.4W 4 pin 0.1” Semi rigid 2.2mm Kester 0.4mm 15 cm 15x10cm

2 1 1 3 7 2 48 12 4 1 1 1 1 0.1m 1 1 1

4 3 3 5 9 4 52 14 4 1 1 1 1 0.1m 1 1 1

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Value

QTY QTY Used Supplied 13 15 1 3 1 3 3 5 3 5 8 10 1 3

item Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1% Resistor 0603 1%

Remarks

2.2 18 33 47 49.9 82

blue/green red/black red/green green/black black red green or none blue 106 16 C336 100 16Z

47uF 16V Test Resistor

-

-

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 30 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

APPENDIX 1 – DDS Fault Finding Fault finding of DDS issues should follow the follow sequence: Caution!! – Observe ESD handling procedures Step 1: Visual Inspection of DDS chip using at least x3 magnification. []

Check whether all pins are soldered to the pads.

[]

Check for solder bridges between adjacent pads. If in doubt you can carefully clear the area between pads using a needle or pen-knife. Caution!!: Do not damage PCB pad connections between pads 18 & 19, between pads 35 & 36 and between pads 46, & 47 & 48

Step 2: Check for correct DC Voltages are present as per Table 2 below. []

With DC Voltmeter check the voltage of the Analog (AVDD) and Digital (DVDD) power supply to the DDS. The voltage reading should be between +1.77V....1.81V DC

[]

If the Voltage on a bus is 0V DC then this is most likely to be caused by a short between two adjacent pads. Use Table x below and closely inspect adjacent VDD pads (Red colour) and GND pads (Black colour) for solder bridges. Only as a last resort consider cutting tracks to isolate which pad(s) are causing the short circuit.

[]

Using the information in Table 2 measure whether all the DC Voltages are correct with respect to GND Step 3: Check for correct Clock and I/O signals present

[]

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Use a 50 MHz Oscilloscope with sensitivity set to 10mV/Division and a Probe with x10dB attenuation, check for the presence of 36 MHz clock signal on pin 9 of the DDS. If the clock signal is not present, check whether the Crystal is oscillating by connecting the x10 probe to the junction of Q1 Collector and L2. (Fig x to be added shows the expected wave form)

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 31 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Alternatively you may use a General Coverage Receiver to listen for Clock Signal by tuning between 35.85 MHz and 36.05 MHz. (Typically the 12MHz Fundamental Crystal supplied in the kit will oscillate on 35.875 Mhz in the overtone oscillator circuit used. []

With a 50 MHz Oscilloscope and sensitivity set to 500mV and x10 probe and Vertical timebase to 0.2 Div/second so the trace slowly moves over the screen. Adjust trace intensity so a bright trace is visible. Caution!!: CRT burn may result if trace brilliance is set too high Start DDS.exe application as detailed in check in section 6.6. Connect x10 Probe to Pin 1 of the DDS. When changing the frequency of the DDS monitor that the DC voltage is 0V with pulses 3V...4.5V pulses are visible.

[]

Repeat previous step for pins 37, pin 40 and 41 Faultfinding checks If the DC Level is not 0V DC check whether pin or pad is not short circuited to another pin. Check whether 100 Ohm resistors are mounted. Check for 0V DC and 3V...4.5V pulses over junction of R1, R2, R3 and R4 near Db9 connector. If this fails unplug the cable between PC to VNA and check whether 0V DC and 3V...4.5V pulses are present on pin 1 of Db9 Male to GND (pin 8) (see fig xx) when changing DDS frequency on the DDS.exe application and PC port configuration or check wiring of PC – VNWA connection cable. It may be possible there is a Parallel Port problem. Check by connecting VNWA to a different (older Computer) and redoing the tests. Known latent issues: 1. DDS Reset:As the DDS Reset line is hardwired to GND, The VNWA requires the Power Voltages applied without interruption or spikes to allow the DDS to initialize correctly at start-up. Do not rely on Lab or Crocodile clips to connect to external PSU, if in doubt apply power via a On/Off switch to reduce spikes etc 2. Parallel port Pulse issue: A problem has been found with certain PCI or PCMI Parallel port cards which have fast rising 5V Pulses which do not readily interface with the DDS. The solution is to reduce the pulses to about 3.3V by inserting resistors in series with D0 to D5 Control cable. See Appendix 2.

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Page 32 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Table 2: DDS Pin Designation and Fault finding Table AD9859 DDS Pin Function Description & Fault finding Table Pin #

Name

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 Pad

i/O Update DVDD DGND AVDD AGND AVDD AGND /OSC/REFCLK OSC-REFCLK Crystal out CLKMODESELECT Loop_ Filter AVDD AGND AGND AVDD AGND AVDD AVDD /IOUT IOUT AGND DACBP DAC_Rset AVDD AGND AVDD AGND AVDD AGND AGND AGND DGND DVDD PWRDWNCTL RESET IOSYNC SDO /CS SCLK SDIO DGND DVDD_I/O SYNC_IN SYNC_CLK OSK DGND DGND AGND

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I/O Description I I I I I I I I I O I I I I I I I I I O O I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I O I I/O I/O I I I O I I I I

0V DC stationary – pulses to 3V...4.5V when command sent to DDS via LPT Measure + 1.8V DC supplied from Digital Regulator GND Digital Power Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator GND Analog Power Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator GND Analog Power Measure +1.25 V DC (Clock Decoupling with 220nF) With Scope and x10 Probe measure 1.25V DC with 1.2V – superimposed Open – No output 0V DC -grounded through 10K Resistor (R78 for U13 or R79 for U16) Measure 0.6V DC Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator GND Analog Power GND Analog Power Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator GND Analog Power Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator DAC Output – measure 1.5V DC – U13 and U16 RF output is 250mV pkpk superimposed DAC Output + 1.5V DC, U13 RF is 250mV pkpk. U16 RF is 500mV pkpk superimposed GND Analog Power DAC Bias decoupling – measure 0.85V DC Set Reference current via 3.9K resistor – measure 1.24V DC Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator GND Analog Power Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator GND Analog Power Measure +1.8V DC supplied from Analog Regulator GND Analog Power GND Analog Power GND Analog Power GND Digital Power Measure + 1.8V DC supplied from Digital Regular GND - measure 0V DC DGND – measure 0V DC 0V DC stationary – pulses to 3V...4.5V when command sent to DDS via LPT Not connected – Measure ?? DGND – measure 0V DC 0V DC stationary – pulses to 3V...4.5V when command sent to DDS via LPT 0V DC stationary – pulses to 3V...4.5V when command sent to DDS via LPT GND Digital Power Measure +3.3V DC (Power supplied by U2) DGND – measure 0V DC Open – not used – output is 9 MHz Squarewave DGND – measure 0V DC GND Digital Power GND Digital Power Pad on bottom of Chip – Ground connection – is Thermal Pad for Device

© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

Page 33 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

APPENDIX 2 Data Cable to connect Personal Computer Parallelport to VNWA 2.x •

It may be convenient to modify a suitable RS232 cable with 25 pin D and SubD 9 male connector and re-wire this as shown in fig 5. below.

•

Full Kits supplied by SDR-Kits will have U1 MAX632 and therefore may be powered from a single 5V DC Supply. • Note that the power supply can be connected via a separate connector (For instance 2.5mm DC Power connector) if the step-up converter U1/MAX632 is mounted. In this case the board will run on a single 4.5V-5.5V supply and requires about 400mA current. If this option is selected then the 5V DC to pin 6 and 9V DC connection to pin 7 of the SubD are NOT required. Note that an USB outlet can theoretically provide this power. But there is no controller negotiating the power requirements, thus the USB control logic might simply switch off on certain computers.

•

•

If the step-up converter is not mounted (e.g. to reduce interference on the board), then two supplies are required and can be provided via the SubD9 connector pins 6 and 7, namely 4.5V5.5V / 400mA (pin 6) and 9V-12V/abt. 15mA (pin 7), see above connector drawing.

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Parallel Port (LPT) Test Procedure Note: This test may be done at any time – a working VNWA is NOT required. • Download DDS.zip from: www.mydarc.de/dg8saq/hidden/DDS.zip and unzip both files, DDS.exe and zlportio.sys, in the package into directory C:/Windows/System • Determine the LPT Address by selecting: Control Panel, System, Hardware, Device Manager, Ports (COM & LPT) then click on: LPT and Properties and Resources. The LPT is shown in the first line of I/O Range. (BC48 in example shown) •

Run DDS.exe and enter the LPT address found in previous step.

•

Configure the remaining screens as shown in figure “DDSe.exe Setup” below. Note the setting “Toggle 1/5 MHz”

Fg 2: DDS.exe setup screen

•

Connect an Oscilloscope to LPT DB25 socket pin 2 (bit D0) and to GND and set Vertical Display to 1V/Div with x1 Scope Probe.

•

Verify that the output is as shown in fig 2: below with pulses visible between 0V and +3.3V... +5V depending on make of your LPT card. Set Horizontal Timebase to 0.5uS/Div

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Page 35 of 38

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

•

With the Oscilloscope you can check the output (5MHz&1MHz) switched on either DDS U13 (RF Out) or DDS U16 (LO Out) The output should look like the picture below: RF Out should be 500mV pkpk loaded with 50 Ohm. This value reduces to 250mV pkpk when loaded with 25 Ohm. Timebase is set to 0.5uSec/div

•

The same results may be observed when running the DG8SAQ VNWA.exe program and specifying a continuous sweep range as shown in the Helpfile for this application.

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

APPENDIX 3 Download High Resolution PDF File of Component Placing

http://www.SDR-Kits.net/VNWA/VNWA_board.pdf

APPENDIX 4 DG8SAQ VNWA 2.x Circuit Diagrams This Appendix is supplied to Kit builders with the Kit parts

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DG8SAQ VNWA2.3

Kit Assembly Manual V1.0g

Appendix 5

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© 2009 by Jan Verduyn G0BBL SDR-Kits & Thomas Baier DG8SAQ

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