Extending Active Device Characterization: ENA-X Midrange VNA
Application Notes
Amplifiers and converters are essential components of RF and microwave sub-systems such as satellite transponders or radar transmit/receive modules. Noise figure is one of the key parameters that is characterized on the receiver component of these sub-systems.
Noise figure can be measured using test instrumentation such as a noise figure analyzer, spectrum analyzer, or a network analyzer. Network analyzers are often used due to other crucial measurement capability, such as S-parameters, gain compression, and intermodulation distortion. The network analyzer cold-source noise figure measurement technique available enables both accurate and efficient measurements.
During the design stage of a device, simplicity of testing (not requiring many external components) and speed of testing allow a designer to change and improve the design efficiently. In the manufacturing process, fast and simple testing allows for significant cost-savings.