Question
When I perform a RF Level sweep with my generator I see drops in the RF power level. As seen in the screenshot below.
Power drops in RF Level Sweep
Is this a normal behaviour?
Answer
When performing a RF level sweep with the Settings Characteristics "Auto" these power drops is a normal behaviour of the generator. With this setting the generator delivers the fastest setting time and furthermore the best dynamic range. But at the same time due to switiching of the internal step attenuator one receive drops in the RF level.
In order to receive an uninterrupted power sweep the Settings Characteristics have to be set to "Uninterrupted" where the step attenuator is fixed. That leads to an uninterrupted power sweep. As shown in the screenshot below.
This setting reduces at the same time the maximum dynamic range of the geneartor.
References:
SMBV100B User manual
https://scdn.rohde-schwarz.com/ur/pws/dl_downloads/pdm/cl_manuals/user_manual/1178_4460_01/SMBV100B_UserManual_en_10.pdf
