HTOOL HT008 RF Signal Transmitter User Manual

1. Introduction

The HTOOL HT008 is a versatile RF signal transmitter based on the MAX2871 chip, designed for generating and sweeping radio frequency signals from 23.5MHz to 6000MHz. It features a compact design, an OLED display, and supports both manual control via onboard buttons and advanced control via a computer serial port. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your HT008 device.

2. Product Features

• Frequency Range: 23.5MHz to 6000MHz.
• Frequency Accuracy: 0.01MHz.
• Output Power (CH1): -4dBm, -1dBm, 2dBm, 5dBm.
• Output Power (CH2 with Attenuator): -15dBm to -25dBm (1dBm granularity, 11 levels).
• Display: 0.96-inch OLED screen (90*160 resolution).
• Control Interface: Onboard buttons and USB serial port (CH340G chip) for computer control.
• Modes: Point Frequency Mode, Sweep Mode, Amplitude Shift Configuration.
• Power Supply: USB power supply or 5V1A lithium battery.
• Upgrades: Continuously provided firmware upgrades.

Figure 1: Key upgrades and features of the HT008 (MAX2871), including CH2 power regulation, USB Type-C, toggle switch, battery management interface, and firmware upgrades.

3. Package Contents

Please check the package contents upon receipt:

• 1 x HTOOL HT008 RF Signal Transmitter (MAX2871)
• 1 x USB Type-C Data Connection Cable

Figure 2: HT008 RF Signal Transmitter packaged with a USB Type-C cable.

4. Setup Instructions

4.1 Device Overview

Figure 3: Detailed diagram of the HT008 front panel with numbered callouts for components.

1. Power Switch: Toggles the device on/off.
2. USB Power Supply Interface/Computer Connection Port: USB Type-C port for power and data communication.
3. Nylon Isolation Footholder: Provides stability and electrical isolation.
4. Display Screen: 0.96-inch OLED screen for displaying settings and information.
5. Button Control: Used for navigation and value adjustment. The middle button confirms selections.
6. Channel 2 (CH2) Output: SMA connector for signal output with attenuator.
7. Channel 1 (CH1) Output: SMA connector for signal output without attenuator.
8. Battery Management System Interface: For connecting a 5V1A lithium battery.
9. Battery Connection Points: BAT+ and BAT- for external battery connection.

4.2 Powering the Device

• USB Power: Connect the provided USB Type-C cable to the USB port (2) on the device and to a 5V power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter).
• Battery Power: The device supports a 5V1A lithium battery power supply. Connect the battery to the designated battery management system interface (8) or BAT+ / BAT- points (9). When using a high-performance external power supply, a USB connection is not required.

4.3 Computer Connection

To control the device via a computer, connect the USB Type-C cable to the device and your computer. The device uses a CH340G USB-to-serial chip. Ensure the necessary drivers are installed on your computer for serial communication. The baud rate for serial communication is 115200.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Device UI Interface

Figure 4: Device OLED UI interface showing main menu options.

The device's OLED screen displays the following main menu options:

1. Point Mode: Used to output a single frequency, fixed amplitude signal.
2. Sweep Mode: Used to output a signal that automatically, continuously, or in steps sweeps over a range of frequencies.
3. Sweep SET: Configuration for sweep parameters.
4. Ampl. Shift: Used to customize the amplitude size and calibrate the amplitude.

5.2 Point Frequency Mode

In Point Frequency Mode, you can set the desired channel, frequency, and power for a single output signal.

• Use the Left and Right buttons to move the cursor between editable fields (e.g., frequency digits, channel selection).
• Use the Up and Down buttons to change the selected value (frequency, amplitude, or channel).
• Press the Middle (OK) button to enter or exit the frequency setting interface.

Figure 5: Setting channel, frequency, and power in Point Frequency Mode on the device.

5.3 Sweep Mode

Sweep Mode allows the device to generate a signal that changes frequency over time. Before starting a sweep, you must configure the sweep parameters in 'Sweep SET'.

• Setting Parameters: In the 'Sweep SET' menu, use the Left and Right buttons to move the cursor and Up and Down buttons to adjust values for:
  • Start Frequency
  • End Frequency
  • Step Length
  • Interval Time
• Important Note: The sweep operation will not execute if the start frequency is less than the end frequency, or if the step length and interval time are not set. Ensure all parameters are correctly configured.
• Execution: After setting the parameters, turn on the 'Enable' switch to start the sweep.
• Channel Power: Currently, only Channel 1's power setting is fully open for sweep mode. Channel 2's power setting will be upgraded in future firmware versions.

Figure 6: Setting step width and sweep time interval in Sweep Mode on the device.

5.4 Amplitude Shift Configuration

This mode allows you to customize and calibrate the amplitude of the transmitted signal. The calibration interval is typically -15 to 15, and the amplitude of the transmitted wave can be customized within this range.

5.5 Computer Control (Upper Computer Software)

The HT008 can be controlled via dedicated upper computer software through the USB serial port. This software provides a graphical interface for setting frequencies, amplitudes, and managing sweep functions.

Figure 7: Main menu of the upper computer software, offering 'Point Mode', 'Sweep Mode', and 'IAP Upgrade' options.

Figure 8: 'Point Mode' interface of the upper computer software, allowing precise control over frequency, amplitude, and channel selection.

The software allows for:

• Point Mode: Set specific frequency and amplitude values for CH1 or CH2.
• Sweep Mode: Configure and execute frequency sweeps with detailed control over start/end frequencies, step size, and timing.
• IAP Upgrade: For firmware updates.

6. Specifications

Figure 9: Approximate dimensions of the HT008 RF Signal Transmitter.

7. Maintenance

• Keep the device clean and free from dust and moisture.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
• Handle the SMA connectors with care to prevent damage.
• When not in use, store the device in a dry, safe place.

8. Troubleshooting

• Device not powering on: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to a working power source, or that the lithium battery is charged and correctly connected.
• No signal output: Check that the correct channel (CH1 or CH2) is selected and configured. Verify frequency and amplitude settings. Ensure SMA cables are properly connected.
• Computer connection issues: Confirm that the USB Type-C cable is functional and properly connected. Install the necessary CH340G drivers for serial communication. Check the baud rate setting (115200).
• Sweep not executing: Double-check that the start frequency is not less than the end frequency, and that all sweep parameters (start/end frequency, step length, interval time) are set.
• Inaccurate amplitude: Perform amplitude calibration via the 'Ampl. Shift' menu or the upper computer software.

9. Warranty and Support

For any technical support, warranty claims, or questions regarding the operation of your HTOOL HT008 RF Signal Transmitter, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Firmware upgrades are continuously provided to enhance device functionality and performance.