The HP 83236B PCS Interface is a frequency translator module that extends TDMA and CDMA measurement capabilities across PCS bands for HP 8920A/B, 8921A, and 8924C test sets. Operating from 1710 to 1990 MHz, it covers international, Korean, and North American PCS allocations while maintaining an internal power meter for accurate CW, CDMA, and TDMA signal measurements. The module operates remotely via GPIB or serial interface—no front-panel controls are provided. It integrates with external controllers, the test set’s internal IBASIC controller, or compatible HP instruments via serial bus, enabling automated testing and data acquisition in production and development environments.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Range
• 1710 to 1990 MHz
• International PCS: 1710 to 1880 MHz
• Korean PCS: 1715 to 1870 MHz
• North American PCS: 1850 to 1990 MHz
Measurement Modes
• TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access)
• CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access)
• CW (Continuous Wave)
Power Measurement
Internal power meter maintains accuracy and speed at PCS band frequencies for CW, CDMA, and TDMA signals.
Control Interfaces
• GPIB for external or internal IBASIC controller operation
• Serial interface bus for HP 8920B (option 800, firmware B.05.00 and above) and HP 8924C (firmware A.05.00 and above)
• 10 MHz reference output for synchronization
– Key Features
• No front-panel controls; remote operation only
• RF input/output connections to compatible test sets
• CDMA/PCS Base Station Test Software (IBASIC application) support
• Supports North American PCS channel plans and proposed international band definitions
• Module form factor with Pylon housing option
• Approximately 15 lbs shipping weight
– Typical Applications
• PCS band RF device and transceiver testing
• Automated TDMA and CDMA signal characterization
• Multi-region compliance testing across international, Korean, and North American standards
• Integration with production test systems via GPIB or serial control
– Compatibility & Integration
Supported test sets: HP 8920A, 8920B, 8921A, 8924C. Serial control requires specific firmware revisions on 8920B and 8924C platforms.
