Mini-Circuits

®

2018

BenchtopTest Solutions
Programmable Attenuators Signal Measurement Switch Matrices
Signal Generators Control Products

www.minicircuits.com

www.minicircuits.com

BTS-18www.minicircuits.com P.O. Box 350166, Brooklyn, NY 11235-0003 (718) 934-4500 sales@minicircuits.com

1Introduction

Benchtop Test Modules Product Portfolio
Programmable Attenuators — Pages 4-7

Develop Affordable, Flexible Test Setups with
Benchtop Test and Measurement Modules
Test and measurement instrumentation has
traditionally been one of the largest investments
for companies producing RF products, and forgood reason. The capability to test many devices
quickly can greatly reduce overall production
cost and time to market. However, developing afast, efficient test setup needn’t require prohibitive
expense. Mini-Circuits’ has innovated a line ofproducts for these functions that are smaller,
faster, easier to control, and much more affordable
than other options typically available in theindustry. Our benchtop test and measurement
modules offer the ease of control via USB or
Ethernet and include programmable attenuators,
power sensors, frequency counters, switch
modules, signal generators and control products.
Depending on the application, these units
may be used as standalone solutions or easily
integrated as building blocks to build scalable
testing platforms customized to each user’s
individual needs.

the ultimate range of their applications will bedefined as it has been all along: by eachcustomer’s requirements.
This product guide gives you an overview of
Mini-Circuits’ standard portfolio of benchtop
test products. We hope this information gives
you some ideas about how we can help you
reduce cost and improve efficiency in your testlab, and we invite you to reach out to us attestsolutions@minicircuits.com with anyquestions, custom requirements or other needs
you may have. We’re here to support you!
Regards,
Chi Man ShumVice President, Test and Measurement
Mini-Circuits

Mini-Circuits’ line of benchtop test modules
is set up to allow customers to build solutions
around their exact needs without investing
extra money in equipment they don’t need.
Leveraging a wealth of standard building
blocks and detailed customer input, wehave helped many customers realize highly
functional, affordable solutions to improve test
throughput and efficiency. Popular applications
have included setups for testing of RF noisecharacterization, LTE networks, remote radio
heads, up-converters, as well as mobile handset
interference, interoperability, and certification,and these are just a few. Customers are finding
new uses for these products almost daily, and

USB & RS232 Controlled
RUDAT-13G-60
RUDAT-13G-90
RUDAT-4000-120
RUDAT-6000-30
RUDAT-6000-60
RUDAT-6000-90
RUDAT-6000-110

USB & Ethernet Controlled
RCDAT-3000-63W2
RCDAT-4000-120
RCDAT-6000-30
RCDAT-6000-60
RCDAT-6000-90
RCDAT-6000-110
RCDAT-8000-30
RCDAT-8000-60
RCDAT-8000-90

4-Channel USB &Ethernet Controlled
RC4DAT-6G-95
RC4DAT-6G-60

Solid State Switches — Pages 8-9
USB Controlled
USB-SP4T-63
USB-1SP8T-63H
USB-2SP2T-DCH
USB-4SP2T-63H

SPI Controlled
SPI-SP10T-63

USB & I 2 C Controlled
U2C-1SP4T-63H

Compact Modular Systems — Pages 10-11
Switching Systems
Multi-Channel
Programmable Attenuators RCM-200 Series
Flexible SPDT, SP4T, SP6T, SP8T &RCM-100 Series
Transfer switch combinations
4 to 6 attenuator channels

Mechanical Switches — Pages 12-13
USB Controlled
USB-1SP4T-A18
USB-1SPDT-A18
USB-2SPDT-A18
USB-3SPDT-A18
USB-4SPDT-A18
USB-8SPDT-A18

USB & Ethernet Controlled
RC-1SP4T-A18 RC-3SPDT-A18
RC-1SP6T-A12 RC-4SPDT-A18
RC-1SPDT-A18 RC-8SPDT-A18
RC-2SP4T-A18
RC-2SP6T-A12
RC-2SPDT-A18

Signal Measurement — Pages 14-18
Peak Power Sensor
PWR-8P-RC
RMS Power Sensors
PWR-4RMS
PWR-6RMS-RC
PWR-6LRMS-RC
Integrated Frequency& Power Sensors
FCPM-6000RCCW Power Sensors
PWR-2.5 GHS-75
PWR-4GHS
PWR-6GHS
PWR-6LGHSPWR-8GHS
PWR-8FS
PWR-8GHS-RC

Frequency Counters
UFC-6000

Signal Generators — Pages 19
USB & Ethernet Controlled
SSG-6000RC
SSG-6001RC

Control Products — Pages 20-23
Trademarks:
Windows, Visual Basic, Visual C# and Visual C++ are registered trademarks ofMicrosoft Corporation. LabVIEW and CVI are registered trademarks of National
Instruments Corporation. Delphi is a registered trademark of Delphi Technologies,
Inc. MATLAB is a registered trademark of The MathWorks, Inc. Agilent VEE is a
registered trademark of Agilent Technologies, Inc. Linux is a registered trademarkof Linus Torvalds.

22

All other trademarks cited within this guide are the property of their respective
owners. Neither Mini-Circuits nor Mini-Circuits Test Solutions are affiliated withor endorsed or sponsored by the owners of the above referenced trademarks.
Mini-Circuits and the Mini-Circuits logo are registered trademarks of
Scientific Components Corporation.
© Mini-Circuits, 2018. All rights reserved.

Mini-Circuits ISO 9001 ISO 14001 AS 9100
Mini-Circuits® ®

US B/RS232 to SPI
Converters
RS232/USB-SPI
RS232/USB-SPI-N

Input/Output Control Boxes
USB-I/O-16D8R
USB-I/O-4D2R
USB-I/O-8DRVAppendix — Pages 24-27.NET Example
Program in LabVIEW
for RCM/ZTM
Modular Test Systems

M ultiple Programmable
Attenuator Control via
Mini-Circuits GUI

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33

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONSProgrammable Attenuators

Programmable Attenuators
0 to 120 dB 1 MHz to 13 GHz
Mini-Circuits’ programmable attenuators provide
precise level control with accurate, repeatableperformance for a wide range of test applications
from 1 to 13 GHz. Available in models withattenuation ranges spanning 0 to 120 dB instep sizes as small as 0.25 dB, our uniquedesigns maintain linear attenuation
change per dB over the entire range ofattenuation settings. Small enough to fit inyour pocket, they’re perfect for use in thelab or in the field.
Mini-Circuits’ smart GUI software suppliedwith all models allows you to sweep or hop
attenuation levels, and even save and recall your own test profiles
with specific attenuation patterns for specific test applications, reducing test
time and increasing throughput. DLLs and programming instructions are also
included, so you can program your attenuators through your native test software

Features

Model Specifications
Model
NumberControlInterface

Frequency
Range (MHz)Input Power(dBm)

Attenuation
Range (dB)

Step Size(dB)

RCDAT-3000-63W2

USB & Ethernet

50-3000

+33

0-63

1

RUDAT-13G-60

USB, SPI & RS232

10-13000

+23

0-60

0.5

RUDAT-13G-90

USB, SPI & RS232

10-13000

+23

0-90

0.5

RCDAT-8000-30

USB & Ethernet

1-8000

+28

0-30

0.25

RCDAT-8000-60

USB & Ethernet

1-8000

+28

0-60

0.25

RCDAT-8000-90

USB & Ethernet

1-8000

+28

0-90

0.25

RCDAT-6000-30

USB & Ethernet

1-6000

+20

0-30

0.25

RCDAT-6000-60

USB & Ethernet

1-6000

+20

0-60

0.25

RCDAT-6000-90

USB & Ethernet

1-6000

+20

0-90

0.25

RCDAT-6000-110

USB & Ethernet

1-6000

+20

0-110

0.25

RCDAT-4000-120

USB & Ethernet

1-4000

+20

0-120

0.25

RUDAT-6000-30

USB & RS232

1-6000

+20

0-30

0.25

RUDAT-6000-60

USB & RS232

1-6000

+20

0-60

0.25

RUDAT-6000-90

USB & RS232

1-6000

+20

0-90

0.25

RUDAT-6000-110

USB & RS232

1-6000

+20

0-110

0.25

RUDAT-4000-120

USB & RS232

1-4000

+20

0-120

0.25

GUI Main Control• Models with attenuation range up to 120 dB• Choose from USB, Ethernet, RS232 and SPI control options• Use our software or yours! User-friendly GUI and DLLs included• Sweep or hop attenuation levels• Save and recall customized attenuation patterns• Pocket-sized package, as small as 3.0 x 2.0 x 0.6"

Perfect for…
• Fading simulators• Handover system evaluation• Automated test equipment• And MORE!

Multiple attenuators can also be controlled through Mini-Circuits GUI software.
Please see application note on page 26 for instructions.

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5

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONSProgrammable Attenuators

4-Channel
Programmable Attenuators
0 to 95 dB 1 to 6000 MHz
Also Available: ZTDAT Series

Mini-Circuits’ RC4DAT Series of compact multi-channel
attenuators provide four independently programmablechannels in one device, supporting a wide range oftest applications such as 4x4 MIMO testing, handoversystem evaluation and more. Two models support
applications from 1 to 6000 MHz with your choice ofattenuation ranges from 0 to 63 dB or 0 to 95 dB in 0.25* dB steps. The
user friendly GUI and fully featured API provide support for a wide range ofsoftware environments with control via USB or Ethernet.
* 0.25 dB step from 0 to 90 dB, 0.5 dB step from 90 to 95 dB

Rack-mounted multi-channel attenuator systems with 8 to 48 channels controlled
through a single USB / Ethernet interface. Even larger attenuator matrices canbe quickly assembled by cascading multiple units together allowing control overhundreds of attenuator channels, through a single USB or Ethernet interface.

Model Specs
Model

ControlInterface

Number of
Channels

Frequency(MHz)

Attenuation
Range (dB)

Step Size(dB)

RC4DAT-6G-95

USB & Ethernet

41-60000-95

0.25

RC4DAT-6G-60

USB & Ethernet

41-60000-63

0.25

GUI-Main Control Screen

Application: Mesh Network Test System

Quickly set, sweep or hop attenuation any combination of the 4 attenuator channels via
USB or Ethernet:

6 port network constructed from six 5-way splitter / combiners and four RC4DAT-6G-95 4-channel
programmable attenuators. Path loss can be independently varied between any pair of ports, without
affecting any other pair of ports, for testing of wireless networked devices (Bluetooth, Zigbee, WiFi).

Also Available: ZTMN Series

Rack-mounted mesh network test systems
from 4 to 32 ports; bandwidths up to 6 GHz;
0 to 95 dB attenuation range per path.

Schematic diagram of 6-port mesh network
Multiple attenuators can also be controlled through Mini-Circuits GUI software.
Please see application note on page 26 for instructions.

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7

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONSSolid State Switches

USB / SPI / I2C
Solid State Switches
SPDT, SP4T, SP8T, SP10T DC to 8000 MHz

Application Example: 2 x 8 Switch Matrix
Taking advantage of multiple switches in the same
module helps to reduce complexity when constructing
larger switch systems. For example, a 2 x 8 switch
matrix can quickly be assembled by interconnecting
just 4 of Mini-Circuits’ high performance solid-stateswitch modules as shown. Two USB-1SP8T-63H SP8T
modules can be used to “fan-out” from the 2 input
ports, with two USB-4SP2T-63H quad SPDT modules
used to “fan-in” to the 8 output ports.

To respond to the growing demand for extremely
fast switching capability in test systems for next
generation applications like 5G and Massive
MIMO, Mini-Circuits has developed a new familyof high-speed, solid-state switch modules with control
via USB or SPI interfaces. With frequency ranges
spanning 1 to 8000 MHz, these switches cover all
the key telecom application bands and provide
very high isolation and fast switching speed. USB
control allows easy connection from almost any PC
and automation from most common programming
environments. Alternatively, SPI-SP10T-63 supports a simple
3-wire SPI interface that allows connection of many switches along
the same control line, cascaded in a “daisy-chain” configuration.

Such a system lends itself to automated component
testing for example, by enabling a 2-port measurement
device to be switched between multiple 2-port DUT(devices under test).

These solid-state switches can be readily integrated into a self-contained switchingsystem with Mini-Circuits proprietary firmware and user-friendly control software, allowing
many possible configurations for your signal routing needs.

Features

Perfect for…

• Low insertion loss
• Up to 90 dB isolation• Extremely fast switching time, down to 250 ns• Up to +35 dBm input power handling• User-friendly GUI and API included• Production test
• R&D
• Signal routing in systems with high signal traffic• And MORE!

Also Available: ZTS Series
Rack-mounted assemblies of solid-state SPDT, SP4T and SP8T switches,
configured per your requirements and integrated for control through asingle Ethernet or USB interface.

Model Specs
Model
Number8

Switch		Type
ControlFrequency
(MHz)

Input
Power (dBm)

Insertion
Loss (dB)

Isolation(dB)

SwitchingTime

SPI-SP10T-63

SP10T

SPI

1 – 6000

27

4

80

6 µs

USB-1SP8T-63H

SP8T

USB

10 – 6000

30

4

80

250 nsU2C-1SP4T-63H

SP4T

USB & I2C

10 – 6000

30

3.5

80

250 nsUSB-SP4T-63

SP4T

USB

1– 6000

27

1.3

50

3 µs

USB-4SP2T-63H

4 x SPDT

USB

10 – 6000

30

2.3

80

250 nsUSB-2SP2T-DCH

2 x SPDTUSB

DC – 8000

35

1.4

50

14 µs

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9

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONS

Compact Modular Systems

Compact Modular
Multi-Channel Programmable Attenuator Systems

Compact Modular
Multi-Function Switching Systems

RCM-100 Series

RCM-200 Series

Mini-Circuits RCM-100 series of compact modular multi-channel
attenuator systems let you choose and configure the hardware
you need without the high cost and slow turnaround of othercustomizable test systems on the market. The design consistsof a small, light-weight chassis with three open hardware slots,
each of which may be outfitted with your choice of programmableattenuators.

Mini-Circuits’ RCM-200 series compact modular multi-function
switching systems give you the same flexibility as the RCM-100
system to customize a hardware configuration for your specific needs
with reliable performance and fast turnaround. Choose from one of
our standard switch configurations or specify a custom configurationin seconds on our website for a fast response.

The system can be controlled via USB or Ethernet (supporting
both HTTP and Telnet network protocols). Full software support isprovided, including our user-friendly GUI application for Windows
systems and full API for both Windows & Linux 32-bit and64-bit systems.

RCM 100 SeriesMulti-Channel Programmable
Attenuator Systems

Features

The switching system can be controlled via USB or Ethernet(supporting both HTTP and Telnet network protocols). Full software
support is provided, including our user-friendly GUI application for
Windows systems and full API for both Windows & Linux 32-bit and64-bit systems.

• 4 or 6 programmable attenuator channels• 0 – 30, 60, 90, or 110 dB attenuation range per channel (1-6000 MHz)• 0 – 120 dB attenuation range per channel (1-4000 MHz)• Models up to 8 GHz also available on request

Standard Configurations

Standard Configurations
Performance per Channel 		Frequency
Attenuation
Step Size

RCM-304

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 30 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-604

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 60 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-100

4

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 95 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-1104

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 110 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-1204

1 - 4000 MHz

0 - 120 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-30-6

6

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 30 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-60-6

6

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 60 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-100-6

6

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 95 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-110-6

6

1 - 6000 MHz

0 - 110 dB

0.25 dB

RCM-120-6

6

1 - 4000 MHz

0 - 120 dB

0.25 dB

Multi-Function Switching Systems

Features• 6 mechanical SPDT or transfer switches (DC to 18 GHz)
• 3 mechanical SP4T (DC to 18 GHz) or SP6T (DC to 12 GHz) switches• 2 mechanical SP8T switches (DC – 12 GHz)
• Custom combinations of SPDT, SP4T, SP6T and transfer switches.
• Extra-long switch life, up to 10 million cycles guaranteed*• Switch cycle counting feature*5 million cycles guaranteed for SP8T models

			Model Name
Channels

RCM 200 Series

Model Name

Switch Type

Number of Switches

Frequency

RCM-6SPDT-18

SPDT

6

DC - 18 GHz

RCM-3SP4T-18

SP4T

3

DC - 18 GHz

RCM-3SP6T-12

SP6T

3

DC - 12 GHz

RCM-2SP8T-12

SP8T

2

DC - 12 GHz

RCM-1SP8T-12

SP8T

1

DC - 12 GHz

Define a Custom Configuration on minicircuits.com

https://www.minicircuits.com/WebStore/rcm.html
RCM-Series systems may also be programmed with LabVIEW.
Please see application note on page 24 for programming example.

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11

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONS

Mechanical Switches

USB/Ethernet
Mechanical Switch Boxes

Ethernet Control of Mechanical Switches
The flexible API (Application Programming
Interface) and software package that ships withall of our test equipment supports a huge rangeof control options.

Mini-Circuits’ USB/Ethernet controlled mechanical switch
modules give a flexible, cost-effective solution for routing
signal in almost any test setup. Now with a wide selection ofmodels in various configurations of SPDT, SP4T, and SP6T
switches, the possibilities are practically unlimited.
Our benchtop switch modules incorporate our patented electromechanical absorptive
switches with ultra-high reliability and extra-long lifetime (typically 10 million switching cycles).
USB and Ethernet control options allow easy connection with most PCs and over a network, whether using ouruser friendly GUI control software or the intuitive API for automating switch sequences. They even come with abuilt-in switch cycle counting feature and automatic calibration alerts based on actual usage, improving reliability
and saving maintenance cost.

Features

Perfect for…

• 0.25 dB insertion loss
• 85 – 90 dB isolation• 1.2:1 VSWR
• Up to 20W RF input power• Extra-long switch life, up to 10 million cycles guaranteed• Switch cycle counting feature• Production test
• R&D
• Automated test equipment• And MORE!

The examples pictured on this page demonstrate 4 techniques
for controlling the RC Series of mechanical switch boxes over a network.
With:
1. Internet browser used as a simple console for HTTP communication (top-right)
2. Telnet client used as a simple console for Telnet communication (bottom-left)
3. Custom Python program forflexible automation and control(bottom-right); a wide range ofother programming environments
and languages are also
supported

Model Specs

12

Model
Number

SwitchConfiguration

ControlInterfaces

Frequency
Range (GHz)RC-1SP4T-A18
RC-1SPDT-A18
RC-2SP4T-A18
RC-1SP6T-A12
RC-2SP6T-A12
RC-2SPDT-A18
RC-3SPDT-A18
RC-4SPDT-A18
RC-8SPDT-A18

1 SP4T
1 SPDT
2 SP4T
1 SP6T
2 SP6T
2 SPDT
3 SPDT
4 SPDT
8 SPDT

USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet
USB & Ethernet

DC-18
DC-18
DC-18
DC-12
DC-12
DC-18
DC-18
DC-18
DC-18

USB-1SP4T-A18
USB-1SPDT-A18
USB-2SPDT-A18
USB-3SPDT-A18
USB-4SPDT-A18
USB-8SPDT-A18

1 SP4T
1 SPDT
2 SPDT
3 SPDT
4 SPDT
8 SPDT

USB
USB
USB
USB
USB
USB

DC-18
DC-18
DC-18
DC-18
DC-18
DC-18

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Also Available: ZT Series
Rack-mounted assemblies configured to meet your requirements, comprising
our mechanical SPDT, SP4T, SP6T, SP8T and transfer switches with
Ethernet and USB control interfaces. Custom configurations can be createdon request to integrate our full range of RF components and modules.

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13

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONS

Signal Measurement

NEW!

USB/Ethernet Peak Power Sensor

Pulse Profiling and Statistical Signal Analysis

10 MHz to 8 GHz, -60 to +20 dBm

Mini-Circuits’ PWR-8P-RC is a low cost, compact
sensor-head, capable of turning any PC
into a high performance power meter.
Analyze and graphically plot the peak
& average power, duty cycle, pulse
width, crest factor, rise & fall times ofpulsed, modulated and CW signals.
With the 80 dB dynamic range allowing
power measurements as low as -60
dBm and as high as +20 dBm, and afast sampling rate of 2 µs, a single power
sensor can be used to cover a diverse rangeof measurement applications.
The dual control interface means the sensor isn’t just a traditional USB device,
but can also be used for remote power measurements across a network without requiring a
direct PC connection. The user-friendly GUI application software for Windows provides a simple
means for analyzing the full signal characteristics, plotting the signal traces and exporting thedata. Alternatively, the included API allows the full measurement capability to be automated andintegrated within your own test software, supported by most common programming environments.

Features

Perfect for…

• Peak & average power of pulsed,
CW & modulated waveforms• Measure power levels down to -60 dBm• Pulse profiling & statistical signal analysis• Radar characterization (VHF / UHF / L / S / C bands)• Particle accelerator experimentation• High speed sampling: 2 µs

• Telecoms testing (Bluetooth / Wi-Fi / 2G-4G bands)• USB & Ethernet control

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15

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONS

Signal Measurement

USB/Ethernet
Smart Power Sensors

Integrated
Frequency Counter/Power Sensor

9 kHz to 8 GHz, -45 to +20 dBm

1 to 6000 MHz, -30 to +20 dBm

Mini-Circuits PWR-series smart power sensors are pocket-sized, precision measurement
devices that provide highly accurate measurements of continuous wave (CW) as well
as modulated and multi-tone signals. USB and Ethernet control options give you thefreedom to manage your test setup from your PC remotely, and our user-friendly
GUI software provides comprehensive control capability, including data acquisition
tools for reporting and data analysis. It even includes built-in measurement
applications for measurement of RF components such as couplers, filters,
amplifiers, and more!

Mini-Circuits FCPM-6000RC integrated frequency counter andpower meter is a pocket-sized (5.00 x 2.66 x 1.36") precision test
device controlled via USB or Ethernet (supporting HTTP and Telnet
protocols) or operated as a standalone test instrument. It simplifies test
applications by enabling synchronized frequency and power
measurements from a single device. The unit features an LCD display,allowing convenient readings directly off the measurement head, while our user-friendly
GUI software lets you perform measurements remotely from your PC via USB or Ethernet.

FeaturesFeatures

Perfect for…

• CW and True RMS measurement• Measure signals as low as -45 dBm• Measurement speed as fast as 10ms
• GUI software supports up to 24 sensors at once
• Measurement averaging and time-scheduled
measurement capability• Small enough to fit in your pocket• Turns almost any Windows or Linux PC intoa low-cost Power Meter• Remote location monitoring• Automatic, scheduled data collection• Evaluate high-power, multi-port devices with built-in
virtual couplers, attenuators, and other software tools• Wide range of test applications including 3G,
4G and Wi-Fi products

Model Specs

16

Perfect for…

• Production test
• USB & Ethernet control• Automatically synchronized power &• Field testing
frequency measurements• Remote location monitoring• Operates with internal or external reference signal• Automatic frequency calibration &temperature compensation• Fast measurement speed, 30ms (power), 100ms (frequency)		Typical PerformanceFrequency Range

1 to 6000 MHz

Dynamic Range-30 to +20 dBm

Model
NumberSensorType

Impedance(Ω)

Frequency
Range (MHz)Input Power
Range (dBm)Control

PWR-2.5GHS-75

CW

75

0.1-2500-30 to +20

USB

PWR-4GHS

CW

50

0.009-4000-30 to +20

USB

Frequency Resolution		

PWR-4RMS

RMS

50

50-4000-35 to +20

USB

Measurement Speed

PWR-6GHS

CW

50

1-6000-30 to +20

USB

PWR-6LGHS
High-Sensitivity

CW

50

50-6000-45 to +10

USB

PWR-6LRMS-RC
High-Sensitivity

RMS

50

50-6000-45 to +10

USB & Ethernet

PWR-6RMS-RC

RMS

50

50-6000-35 to +20

USB & Ethernet

PWR-8FS
Fast Measurement
Speed, 10ms

CW

50

1-8000-30 to +20

USB

PWR-8GHS

CW

50

1-8000-30 to +20

USB

PWR-8GHS-RC

CW

50

1-8000-30 to +20

USB & Ethernet

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Power Resolution

0.01 dB
1 Hz (1 to 40 MHz )10 Hz (40 to 190 MHz )100 Hz (190 to 6000 MHz )30ms

GUI Main Control

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17

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONS

Signal Measurement

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONS

Signal Generators

Frequency Counter

Synthesized
Signal Generators

1-6000 MHz, -28 to +13 dBm

1 to 6000 MHz, -70 to +15 dBm

Mini-Circuits UFC-6000 Frequency Counter provides accurate
frequency measurement from 1 – 6000 MHz with display directly
on a 16x2 character LCD screen or remote display on your PC
via USB connection. It can operate either synchronized withan external 10 MHz reference signal or independently using
its internal reference. User-friendly GUI monitoring and control
software, DLLs and programming instructions are included.

Mini-Circuits’ SSG-series of synthesized signal generators offersa variety of different models to meet your needs and fit yourbudget. All models feature USB and Ethernet control (HTTP
and Telnet protocols) allowing setup flexibility and easy
remote test management. All models provide sweeping
and hopping capability across frequencies and power
levels, as well as trigger and reference signal ports for easy
integration with other test equipment. They even provide
automatic calibration scheduling based on actual usage,
improving reliability and saving maintenance costs.

Electrical Performance		
Parameter
Unit
Test Conditions
Min.
MHz

Typ.

Max.

-

1

-

6000

			
Frequency ResolutionMHz			

1 - 4040 - 190
190 - 6000

-

1
10
100

-

			
Frequency Accuracy @ 1 sec.
MHz
measurement sample time					

1 - 4040 - 190
190 - 1400
1400 - 6000

-

±2
±20
±200
±800

-

Frequency Range

Frequency Counter GUI Main Screen

Our user-friendly GUI software, DLLs and programming instructions are all included
so you can control your setup easily through our software or yours. SSG-series signal
generators are small enough to fit into your laptop case and are available with a rack
mountable front-panel option, enabling easy installation into your test rack.

Features

Perfect for…

• USB & Ethernet Control• Harmonics as low as -66 dBc• Sweeping and hopping capabilities overfrequency and power• Production test
• Field testing• General lab use

Typical Performance
Model

Frequency
Range (MHz)Frequency
Resolution (Hz)Output Power
Range (dBm)

Output Power		
Resolution (dBm) Modulation

ControlInterfaceUSB &SSG-6000RC
25 to 6000
3
-65 to +14
0.25
Pulse
							Ethernet
USB &SSG-6001RC
1 to 6000
3-70 to +15
0.25
Pulse
							Ethernet

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19

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONSControl Products

USB I/O Control Boxes

USB/RS232 – SPI Converter

Mini-Circuits offers a variety of USB controlled I/O boxes as low-cost
solutions for automatic relay control for test equipment, control
systems and other applications. Available in models with 4, 8, and 16
TTL/LVTTL digital outputs, they can be used to control and monitor
multiple devices simultaneously. The supplied software allows either
USB to SPI conversion or direct control of bit states. Other protocols
can be programmed by the user using the supplied API DLL com object.

Mini-Circuits’ USB/RS232 – SPI converters allow two-way
communication with SPI slave devices using either a USB or RS232
port. They operate at 330 kbps with 1 to 16 data bits per word
(specified by the user). They use 5VDC operating voltage, supplied
from either the USB bus or an external power adaptor (included)and come housed in a compact case (2.53 x 1.68 x 0.92") with a
USB type B female port, a standard RJ45 network port for SPI
signals, and a 9-pin D-Sub female port for RS232 signals.

Features

Perfect for…

Features

Perfect for…

• Compatible with 32/64 bit systems• 4, 8, or 16 channel TTL/LVTTL digital outputs• Noise reduction circuit on digital outputs• All required power drawn from USB bus• GUI, DLLs, and programming instructions included• Automatic relay control for test equipment• Bi-directional communication:
USB <-> SPI
RS232 <-> SPI• Software GUI & API included• Interface to SPI test boards / devices• Control systems

Models and Key Features

Models and Key Features
			Input /Output
USB-I/O		
Model Series		
Digital		AnalogModel
Input
OutputOutputs

Relay(dry contact)

SignalType

Power
Source			 4				
USBUSB-I/O-4D2R
N/A( TTL/ LVTTL )2N/A
TTL / LVTTL
24V VCC							TTL VCC016				
USB-I/O-16D8R
88N/A
8 ( SPDT Form C )TTL / LVTTL
USB
		16
0			
USB-I/O-8DRV
		

0
8
8

8			
0
N/A
8 ( SPDT Form C )0			• Control of Mini-Circuits’ SPI-SP10T-63 switches

TTL /LVTTL
TTL / LVTTL
0 – 32 VDC

USB

			
Model
Control
SPI Port

SPI Transmission Rate		
( kbit/s)
Communication

RS232 Baud Rate(bps)

RS232/USB-SPI

USB / RS232

RJ45

330

Bi-Directional

9600

RS232/USB-SPI-N

USB / RS232

Digital Snap-Fit

330

Bi-Directional

9600

Application: Communicating with SPI-Controlled Devices using USB-SPI Converter
Simplified Schematic
SPI-SP10T-63 Switch Control GUI

GUI Main Control

See datasheet for SPI-SP10T-63 for more information:
https://www.minicircuits.com/WebStore/dashboard.html?model=SPI-SP10T-63

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BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONSControl Products

Application:
Bi-Directional USB to SPI Communication
Using Mini-Circuits’ USB/RS232 – SPI Converter he RS232/USB-SPI converts between the test board’s SPI interface and the computer’s USB interface.
2. T
3. M
 ini-Circuits’ supporting software interprets the information and allows the original
analog voltage to be displayed.
4. T he communication needs to be bi-directional in order to configure the ADC with the appropriate settings.
Analog Devices’ AD7791 ADC is used for the purposes of this experiment.

1. Introduction
SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) is a data-link standard that is widely used for shortdistance communication with embedded systems, sensors and ICs (integrated circuits).
The communication works in a “master/slave” mode, whereby a single master can control
multiple slave devices. This structure, along with the low communication overheads froma simple communication protocol, make SPI well suited to high volume production testing.
While SPI is relatively standard for the devices under test (DUT) in these applications,
it is not always readily available on the control side of the equation since most computers
do not support this connection as standard.
Mini-Circuits’ RS232/USB-SPI converters provide a simple solution to this, providing
USB and RS232 interfaces for communication with a computer and a serial interface forconnection to the DUT. The converters support bi-directional SPI communication between
the USB and DUT interfaces and the RS232 and DUT interfaces; allowing the controller
to both set and read from the DUT.

Figure 12b. USB-SPI Communication Using the DLL
To automate the SPI communication between PC and DUT via the RS232/USB-SPI converter,
Mini-Circuits provides both an ActiveX COM (Common Object Model) and a .NET library as DLL files.
Each of these files is a library that provides all the necessary functions to send and read data fromthe converter and can be utilized within a wide range of programming environments and languages.
The steps required in programming with the converter can be summarized as below and acode example can be provided on request by Mini-Circuits’ Applications deparment. For
detailed explanation of programming with the RS232/USB to SPI converter please refer tothe Programming Manual on the Mini-Circuits website.
1. Set-up DLL and Convertera. A
 reference needs to be added to the DLL file within the programming environment
and then a new converter “object” can be declared and used throughout the code.
The converter object contains all the converter functions as defined in the DLL.

Functional Block Diagram for RS232/USB -SPI Converters

2. Application Example - USB Voltage Meter
2.a Summary
To demonstrate this capability, a simple experiment can be set-up where the RS232/USB-SPI
converter is used as an interface between a PC (using the USB port in this case) and an ADC (analog
to digital converter) mounted on a test board. The ADC has an SPI interface that allows certain
properties to be configured before the digital output is read. The RS232/USB-SPI converter operates
at 330kb/sec with 1 to 16 data bits (as specified by the user) being sent and received per SPI word.
With configuration of the test board and ADC’s external circuitry, the application
can be that of a voltmeter:
1. The ADC takes an analog voltage input and provides a digital output over SPI.

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b. T he object is associated with a physical RS232/USB-SPI device using the DLL’s
Connect function. If multiple converters are connected by USB then the serial number
should be provided as an argument to specify the correct hardware.
2. Configure the ADC to receive dataa. U sing the DLL’s Send_Receive_SPI function, data can be sent to the ADC to configure
it for the required application. For further explanation of the parameters set, please
consult the Analog Devices datasheet.
3. Read and calculate the voltage from the ADC
a. U
 sing the same Send_Receive_SPI function as above and this time monitoring the response,
the raw data from the ADC can be collected and the corresponding voltage calculated.
b. This section can be modified into a loop in order to continuously poll the voltage data.
4 Disconnect the convertera. W
 hen measurements are complete, the DLL’s Disconnect function should be called toclose the connection, before physically disconnecting the converter from the computer.

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23

BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONSAppendix.NET Example Program in LabVIEW for RCM/ZTM
Modular Test Systems
The below VI was created to provide an example of how to communicate with an RCM/ZTM
modular test unit via USB using the .NET DLL provided by Mini-Circuits

How to Use the VI (Front Panel)

Block Diagram:
Please note all the comments in the
Block Diagram to the right.
Each comment will explain the function andpurpose of the component it points to.

You’ll first need to enter the Serial Number of the unit you wish to connect to before pressing the Run
button. If only one unit is connected to the PC via USB, then the program will automatically connect toit without a Serial Number Input.
Once connected, you can configure the VI to match the hardware in your unit, either a single SP4T,
SPDT, MTS, or SP6T.
Use the Numerical Controls to choose which port you want each switch to be assigned to and then press
the Set Switches button. If the command was successful, the Success LED will light up.
Once you’re done using the VI, simply press on the Disconnect button to disconnect from the unit andstop the VI.

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BENCHTOP TEST SOLUTIONSAppendixMultiple Programmable Attenuator Control via
Mini-Circuits GUI
The below instructions provide you with insight on how to control multiple RCDAT programmableattenuators using only one computer via the Mini-Circuits GUI. Each of these components areconnected to the same network, allowing connection via HTTP or Telnet.

4. S
 elect the IP address of the first device that you wish to connect to. The IP Address for that
unit should now appear in the IP Address slot. Next type in the password for the unit if you’ve
set one and then choose either HTTP or Telnet. Lastly press the Ethernet button.

1. Open the Programmable Attenuator GUI (the latest version can be found on the Mini-Circuits
website here: https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/patt.html
2. Since you’ll be using your network to control the attenuators, click on the magnifying glass in the
Ethernet section of the GUI:

5. T
 he GUI should open based on the unit you selected. To connect to another unit at the sametime, simply open the GUI again and connect to another one.
a. P lease note you cannot use the Connection Options button in the GUI to do thisbecause that creates a new connection using the same instance of the program.
6. In the end, you should have a somewhat similar screen to the one below, where multiple
instances of the GUI program are running at the same time.
3. After clicking the magnifying glass, you should see all units on the network in the IP List, if notsimply press the Search… button.

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2018

Benchtop Test Solutions
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