This technique, which is integrated directly into Agilent's PNA-X analyzers, offers a complete function for performing multiple measurements with a single connection, and is ideal for R&D and manufacturing engineers who develop and test low-noise transistors, amplifiers, frequency converters, and transmit/receive modules.
Accurate noise figure measurements are needed to test devices in mobile communications and aerospace/defense systems, but achieving this presents certain challenges if a traditional noise source cannot be directly connected to the device under test. This situation creates several problems for today's wafer-based, connectorized, or automated testing systems.
Agilent's corrected source measurement technique eliminates these problems and provides a unique, single-connection solution for S-parameter and noise figure measurements, as well as other measurements such as harmonics, compression, and intermodulation distortion. Using a single connection for all measurements speeds up testing, improves manufacturing efficiency, reduces wear on connectors and probes, and minimizes the risk of wafer damage.
Agilent's new 50 GHz noise hardware incorporates a low-noise receiver and impedance tuner that simplify measurement setup and enable measurements with fully corrected vector noise. Unlike other noise figure solutions, Agilent's PNA-X network analyzers combine S-parameter vector error correction and an impedance tuner to eliminate the effects of imperfect system source matching. Agilent's solution also corrects the interaction between the output matching of the device under test and the internal receiver noise figure.
These advanced error correction methods achieve greater accuracy than the Y-factor method and simpler forms of the cold source method. Furthermore, they offer another practical advantage: users can now choose between using a power meter or a noise source to calibrate the noise receiver.
The 50 GHz noise hardware is also available on the 67 GHz PNA-X models. To measure the noise figure between 50 and 67 GHz, engineers can use the receivers of standard network analyzers and an external electronic calibration module (ECal) along with an external low-noise amplifier (LNA) and a high-pass or band-pass filter.
The Agilent PNA-X is part of the PNA family of network analyzers, which includes the PNA-L, PNA, and PNA-X Series, and covers frequencies from 300 kHz to 1.05 THz. The PNA-X enables comprehensive characterization of linear and nonlinear components from a single instrument with a single connection. The entire PNA family offers advanced connectivity via LAN, USB, and GPIB, an easy-to-use open architecture based on the Microsoft Windows® operating system, and a comprehensive built-in help system. The CPU and operating system of the PNA family can be upgraded as technologies evolve.
For information about the corrected source noise figure option or the PNA-X network analyzer, visit agilent.com/find/pna-x. Photographs of the measurement technique can be found at agilent.com/find/PNA-X-NF_images.
