HP8593e convert option 26 to 27

[pe2ben]

Hello everyone.
I don't like the N input connector from mu hp8593e (26ghz) and i would convert that with an SMA connector (see picture).
That would be no problem i believe but what else do i have to do?
Also how can i edit the option list (changing option 26 to 27)?
Thanks, Ben

[tkamiya]

I believe that's a 3.5mm connector, not SMA.  (inside might be an SMA but outside is 3.5mm)  Do you really want to shell out few hundred dollars for a cable? 

I have mine with N connector.  I don't do anything that makes difference for having N and I appreciate the price point and ruggedness of N.  Just my opinion.

[pe2ben]

Thanks tkamya,
It is very difficult to find a cable for 26.5GHZ with N connector and more expensive than a regular SMA to SMA cable for that frequency.
The HP adapter from the picture is rated for 33GHz.
One side is female SMA (or K) what is normal (for example HP 26.5 GHz counters). I have some SMA female to female adapters (rated for 26.5 GHz).
That way I have also a connector saver.
My plan was just swap the N connector with the SMA connector but i don't know what i have to do further.
My SA think of course that i have option 26 so what i have to do or just leave it after the swap?
Regarding SMA (or K) versus 3.5 mm i'm not sure what you mean.
Are there some other disadvantages?
Regards Ben

[TheSteve]

I'm quite sure the option number is purely for accounting purposes, it won't change anything internal to the analyzer. I'd just swap the connector and not worry about it.

[tkamiya]

3.5mm and SMA connectors look very much alike.  In fact, they mate just fine.  However, when SMA is mated to 3.5mm, there is a chance it may damage expensive 3.5mm side.  Note, adapter you showed have two sides.  The side that's smaller, is likely be SMA.  The one that faces outside is 3.5mm.  3.5mm is a precision connector.  It goes higher in frequency than SMA.  But it is easily damaged.

My understanding is, you CAN exchange N type to 3.5mm type and do a self-cal.  Nothing else.  I'm sure your specAn won't autodetect change in connectors.  There has to be a way to change it but I don't know that one.

But big question is WHY.  Do you really need to reach 26.5GHz and maintain 0.x dB precision?  You can find 26.5GHz rated cable with N connectors on eBay.  SCOFLEX is one of them.  Regular SMA to SMA cables typically don't go to 26.5GHz.  By going 3.5mm, only thing that'll really change is the cavity effect around 20GHz.

[pe2ben]

Hello tkaqmiya
I have find the following interesting link regarding  SAM, 3.5 mm and 2.92 mm connectors:

https://www.gore.com/sites/g/files/ypyipe116/files/2016-06/Intermateability-SMA-Connectors.pdf

One of the HAM bands what i can use is the 24 GHz band so above 18GHz is for me a great plus.
The N connector on the SA is a special HP connector what is usable for 26.5 GHz (even 33GHz i believe).
But using extra adapters gives only more insecurities, i believe, so i prefer 3.5mm cables straight (including the 26.5 GHz female/female connector saver).

Anyway, thanks for your opinion.
Regards Ben