HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator and HT5 Log Periodic Antenna User Manual

1. Introduction

The HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator is a device or system capable of producing specific electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signals. It is widely used in fields such as electronic measurement, communication, radar, audio processing, and scientific research. The core function of this signal source is to provide controllable, stable, and predictable signals for testing, calibration, or driving other devices.

This device is a modern signal source solution that integrates high precision, low phase noise, and portability. It is designed to meet the stringent testing and application requirements in R&D, production, and education. Its core design aims to provide users with pure, stable, and highly controllable signals, while simplifying operation through intelligent control, thereby improving work efficiency.

The HTOOL-SL22 features an extremely wide frequency coverage capability from 45MHz to 22.6GHz, and achieves a high frequency resolution of 1kHz, ensuring precise positioning and output of target frequency points. Its excellent ultra-low phase noise performance of -236dBc/Hz provides a solid foundation for high-sensitivity receiver testing and high-quality local oscillator simulation applications. With dual-channel independent output, combining point frequency and sweep frequency core working modes, it can be flexibly applied to various complex signal scenarios.

The HTOOL-SL22 adopts LMX2820, main control GD32F427, a 2.8-inch (240*320) LCD screen, and supports USB virtual serial port communication. Sine waves can be generated from 45MHz to 22600MHz. It supports sweep and point frequency working modes, built-in USB virtual serial port communication, and dual-channel signal output (channel 1 and channel 2) with 8 amplitude levels (P0 to P7, amplitude range from -16 to 7dBm).

2. Package Contents

The HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator + HT5 Log Periodic Antenna kit includes the following items:

Figure 1: HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator and included accessories.

• HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator *1
• Type-C Cable *1
• Stylus Pen *1
• SMA Male-to-Male RF Cable *2
• N-Female (Hole) to SMA Male (Pin) Adaptor *1
• BNC Female (Hole) to SMA Male (Pin) *1
• SMA female to female adapter *1
• SMA Male (Pin) to F Female (Hole) Adaptor *1
• HT5 Log Periodic Antenna *1

3. Specifications

3.1 HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator

3.2 HT5 Log Periodic Antenna

Figure 2: HT5 Log Periodic Antenna with key specifications.

4. Setup

4.1 Powering On

1. The HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator does not include an internal battery and requires external power via its Type-C USB port for operation.
2. Connect the device to a USB power source (e.g., a computer USB port or a USB wall adapter) using the provided Type-C cable.
3. To power on, slide the OFF/ON switch located on the side of the device to the 'ON' position. The screen should illuminate.

Figure 3: Side view of HTOOL-SL22 showing Type-C power input and ON/OFF switch.

4.2 Connecting the HT5 Log Periodic Antenna

1. Identify the SMA output interface on the HTOOL-SL22 Signal Source Generator.
2. Connect the HT5 Log Periodic Antenna to this SMA output interface using one of the provided SMA Male-to-Male RF cables or appropriate adapters from the accessory kit. Ensure connections are finger-tight.

4.3 Language Selection

Figure 4: HTOOL-SL22 language selection screen.

1. The device supports three language systems: Chinese, Russian, and English.
2. To change the language, navigate to the 'Device Information' screen (by pressing the 'DEVICE' shortcut button).
3. Select your preferred language from the options.
4. Note that a screen refresh (e.g., by pressing any of the four shortcut buttons again) may be required for the language change to take effect immediately.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 General Interface Navigation

Figure 5: HTOOL-SL22 Main Menu and Device Information screen.

The HTOOL-SL22 features a 2.8-inch LCD screen and four shortcut buttons on the right side: POINT, SINGLE SWEEP, CYCLIC SWEEP, and DEVICE. A single press of a shortcut button will enter the corresponding function interface. A second press will return to the main interface.

5.2 Point Frequency Mode

Figure 6: HTOOL-SL22 Point Frequency Mode interface.

In Point Frequency mode, the output signal frequency is fixed and does not change with time. This mode generates a fixed sine wave signal.

1. Press the 'POINT' button to enter the Point Frequency interface.
2. Click the 'Set' button (labeled '1' in Figure 6) to configure the desired single frequency (in MHz). The frequency range is 45MHz to 22600MHz.
3. Slide the switch (labeled '2' in Figure 6) to the right to enable the signal source, or to the left to disable it.

5.3 Single Sweep Mode

Figure 7: HTOOL-SL22 Single Sweep Mode interface.

In Single Sweep mode, the output signal frequency changes over time, generating a signal with varying frequency.

1. Press the 'SINGLE SWEEP' button to enter the Single Sweep interface.
2. Set the 'Start Frequency' (labeled '3' in Figure 7) and 'End Frequency' (labeled '4' in Figure 7) for the sweep range (in MHz). Minimum start frequency is 45MHz, maximum end frequency is 22600MHz.
3. Configure the 'Step Length' (labeled '5' in Figure 7, in MHz) and 'Step Time' (labeled '7' in Figure 7, in ms). Maximum step time is 10000ms.
4. Slide the switch (labeled '6' in Figure 7) to the right to enable the signal source, or to the left to disable it. The signal source will automatically turn off after the single sweep is completed.

5.4 Cyclic Sweep Mode

Figure 8: HTOOL-SL22 Cyclic Sweep Mode interface.

In Cyclic Sweep mode, the frequency of the output signal cyclically changes according to a predefined law (such as linear or nonlinear) within a set frequency range. Unlike the single sweep mode, the cyclic sweep mode automatically returns to the starting frequency when the upper or lower limit of the frequency range is reached, and continues to scan the frequency according to the same pattern.

1. Press the 'CYCLIC SWEEP' button to enter the Cyclic Sweep interface.
2. Set the 'Start Frequency' (labeled '8' in Figure 8) and 'End Frequency' (labeled '9' in Figure 8) for the sweep range (in MHz). Minimum start frequency is 45MHz, maximum end frequency is 22600MHz.
3. Configure the 'Step Length' (labeled '10' in Figure 8, in MHz) and 'Step Time' (labeled '12' in Figure 8, in ms). Maximum step time is 10000ms.
4. Slide the switch (labeled '11' in Figure 8) to the right to enable the signal source, or to the left to disable it.

5.5 Power/Amplitude Adjustment

Figure 9: HTOOL-SL22 Device Information screen.

The device offers 8 amplitude levels (P0 to P7), ranging from low to high, corresponding to an amplitude range of -16 to 7dBm. These can be adjusted in the 'Device Information' screen (labeled '15' in Figure 9).

5.6 USB Serial Port Communication (PC Control)

The HTOOL-SL22 supports USB serial port communication for control via a host computer. This allows for advanced control and data logging.

1. Ensure the necessary USB serial port drivers are installed on your computer.
2. Connect the HTOOL-SL22 to your computer using the provided Type-C USB cable.
3. Open the dedicated host computer software (if provided by HTOOL).
4. Select the correct COM port corresponding to the connected device.
5. Upon successful connection, the device should return product information including its Model, ID, and Version.
6. Commands are typically sent in ASCII format, followed by a newline character (\r\n). The first command must be *IDN?\r\n.

5.7 IAP Firmware Upgrade

To upgrade the device firmware, follow these steps:

1. Prepare for Upgrade: Disconnect the power from the HTOOL-SL22.
2. Enter Upgrade Mode: While pressing and holding the 'DEVICE' button, connect the power to the device. The screen will light up. You can then release the 'DEVICE' button.
3. Connect to PC: Connect the device to your computer via USB.
4. Load Firmware: Open the host computer software for firmware upgrades. Click 'Load Firmware' and select the firmware file (e.g., HTOOL-SL22_V1.0.2.bin). Ensure the file path does not contain any Chinese characters.
5. Select COM Port: Click 'Scan' to detect the available COM ports. Select the detected COM port corresponding to the HTOOL-SL22.
6. Start Upgrade: Click 'Download' to initiate the firmware upgrade process. A 'Successfully' message will indicate completion.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and high humidity.
• Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts, which can damage internal components or the screen.
• Cable Care: Inspect cables and connectors regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Replace damaged cables immediately.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 Common Issues and Solutions

• Device not powering on:
  • Ensure the Type-C USB cable is securely connected to a working power source.
  • Verify that the device's power switch is in the 'ON' position. Remember, the device does not have an internal battery and requires external power.
• No signal output:
  • Verify that the signal source is enabled in the selected operating mode (Point, Single Sweep, or Cyclic Sweep) by checking the on-screen switch.
  • Check all cable connections, including the antenna and any adapters, ensuring they are securely fastened.
  • Confirm that the output power level is set appropriately (P0-P7) and not at P0 if a higher output is expected.
• Communication issues with PC (USB serial port):
  • Ensure the correct USB serial port driver is installed on your computer.
  • Verify that the correct COM port is selected in the host computer software.
  • Disconnect and reconnect the USB cable, then try scanning for COM ports again in the software.
  • Restart both the device and the computer if issues persist.
• Incorrect frequency or power output:
  • Double-check the settings in the respective operating mode interface (Point, Single Sweep, Cyclic Sweep).
  • Ensure the desired frequency range, step length, step time, and power level (P0-P7) are correctly configured.
  • If using the host computer software, verify that the commands sent are correctly formatted and acknowledged by the device.

8. User Tips

• Precision Connections: For precise measurements and optimal performance, ensure all RF connections are tight and use high-quality SMA cables and adapters. Loose connections can introduce signal loss or interference.
• Sweep Strategy: When performing frequency sweeps, it's often helpful to start with a wider frequency range to identify areas of interest, then narrow down the range for more detailed analysis and higher resolution.
• Power Cycle Safety: Always power off the device using the physical ON/OFF switch before connecting or disconnecting antennas, cables, or adapters. This prevents potential damage to the device or connected components due to static discharge or impedance mismatches.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check the official HTOOL website for new firmware updates. Updates can provide improved performance, new features, or bug fixes.

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, and service inquiries, please refer to the official HTOOL website or contact your authorized vendor.

A comprehensive user manual in PDF format is also available for download, which may contain additional detailed information:

HTOOL-SL22 User Manual (PDF)