Pulsed Carrier Phase Noise Measurements using Phase Detectors
Application Notes
Advances in RF and microwave communication technology have extended system performance to levels previously unattainable. Design emphasis on sensitivity and selectivity have resulted in dramatic improvements in those areas. However, as factors previously limiting system performance have been overcome, new limitations arise and certain parameters take on increased importance. One of these parameters is the phase noise of signal sources used in pulsed RF and microwave systems.
In pulsed radar systems, for example, the phase noise of the receiver local oscillator sets the minimum signal level that must be returned from a target in order to be detectable. In this case, phase noise affects the selectivity of the radar receiver which in turn determines the effective range of the overall system.