Techniques for Making Measurements of Noise-Like Signals with a Spectrum...
Many of today’s communication formats, such as W-CDMA, cdma2000®, and WLAN, produce signals that are noise-like in nature. Accurately measuring these types of signals requires tools and setups that...
View ArticleOptimize Spectrum-Analyzer Settings For TOI Measurements
One of the more common measurements made with an RF/microwave spectrum analyzer is determination of third-order-intercept (TOI) point for a device under test (DUT), which is often an amplifier. TOI...
View ArticleMeet The Challenges Of Testing Eight-Antenna LTE
Some LTE communities are pioneering eight-antenna technologies to reap even higher performance gains. Such advanced technologies will make the choice of test methodology even more critical. To find...
View ArticleIntroducing Wireless Standards of the Future: IEEE 802.11ac and LTE-Advanced
In this article, we’ll take a look the physical layer characteristics of the hottest wireless standards and explain how higher data rates are achieved. More specifically, we’ll look at how features...
View ArticleCreate An LTE Field Environment In The Lab
Paul Collins, Madhusudhan Gurumurthy Many see drive testing–the process of testing cellular systems and equipment by literally driving around with live mobile devices in a car or van—as the ultimate...
View ArticleFind Out Why PXI Is Being Used For RF Instruments
David A. Hall Today, several instrument vendors are offering high-performance PXI RF test equipment. In a world that was once dominated by traditional-rack-and-stack instruments, this industry shift...
View ArticleOptimize Signal/Spectrum Analyzer Throughput For High-Volume Manufacturing Test
To obtain the highest throughput for the analyzers used in manufacturing test, one should create a test plan that accounts for speed, repeatability, and dynamic range. read more
View ArticleDemystify Integrated-Phase-Deviation Results In Phase-Noise Measurements
Most modern spectrum analyzers have an automatic measurement for determining the integrated phase deviation of a mostly sinusoidal signal across a range of offset frequencies. The results can be...
View ArticleCellular Networks Get Primed For Tomorrow
Providers are pushing toward higher-efficiency 4G protocols, such as LTE, in order to provide the data services that will generate revenue growth for years to come. As the cellular industry...
View ArticleClik here to view.
Enhance Packet Microwave Performance Through Fragmentation and FER Improvements
By leveraging data awareness, packet microwave technology can provide time-division-multiplex services with a performance that rivals former TDM microwave solutions. By leveraging data awareness,...
View ArticleClik here to view.
The Network of Tomorrow Takes Shape
In this follow-on to the article, “Cellular Networks Get Primed for Tomorrow,” the author provides insight into the technical and business issues that will shape near-future networks. In this...
View ArticleClik here to view.
The Effect of Moore’s Law on RF Instruments
Moore’s Law has revolutionized the modern RF instrument by enabling new advancements in intermediate-frequency and baseband circuitry, as well as signal processing. Faster processing technology brings...
View ArticleClik here to view.
Optimize Time Gating in Spectrum Analysis
Although various types of time gating exist, some applications are more appropriate for certain time-gating methods. Beyond making this determination, designers should know the latest techniques for...
View ArticleClik here to view.
Strategies for Scaling Capacity In Microwave Networks
The application of higher-order modulation formats and the use of packet compression mechanisms are compared for their roles in scaling capacity in modern microwave networks. The application of...
View ArticleClik here to view.
Optimize Settings For Improved Analyzer Sensitivity
Different measurement settings on an RF/microwave spectrum analyzer can have an impact on how low the noise floor can be extended on an instrument and how low the level of measured signals. Spectrum...
View ArticleUnderstanding Measurement Uncertainties In Spectrum Analysis
Understanding the codependent relationship between measurement accuracy and other parameters is crucial.read more
View ArticleMillimeter Waves Extend Wireless Services
Millimeter-wave technology can support wide bandwidths and high data rates over shorter distances without the latencies that can hinder the effectiveness of some applications. Millimeter-wave...
View ArticleUnderstanding Adjacent Channel Power Measurements In Spectrum Analysis
Adjacent-channel-power (ACP) measurements are hardly new, but several techniques for maximizing them are.read more
View ArticleWhat is the Deal with IP2 in Mixers?
Every day we work on high linearity mixers: high IP3, high P1dB, and high spurious suppression. Every once in a while we get a request for a high IP2 mixer. This is much more rare than complaints about...
View ArticleSorting through Balun Confusion
When reading on the Internet about baluns, a distinction that will often come up is "current" baluns versus "voltage" baluns. I've always found this distinction confusing, because an electromagnetic...
View Article
