Transcript No Slide Title

Network Analyzer Basics
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Network Analysis is NOT.…
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Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Low
Integration
High
What Types of Devices are Tested?
Duplexers
Diplexers
Filters
Couplers
Bridges
Splitters, dividers
Combiners
Isolators
Circulators
Attenuators
Adapters
Opens, shorts, loads
Delay lines
Cables
Transmission lines
Waveguide
Resonators
Dielectrics
R, L, C's
Passive
Network Analyzer Basics
RFICs
MMICs
T/R modules
Transceivers
Receivers
Tuners
Converters
VCAs
Amplifiers
Antennas
Switches
Multiplexers
Mixers
Samplers
Multipliers
Diodes
Device type
VCOs
VTFs
Oscillators
Modulators
VCAtten’s
Transistors
Active
Copyright
2000
Complex
Device Test Measurement Model
84000
RFIC test
Ded. Testers
VSA
Response
tool
SA
Harm. Dist.
LO stability
Image Rej.
VNA
SNA
NF Mtr.
NF
Imped. An.
LCR/Z
I-V
Measurement
plane
Absol.
Power
Gain/Flatness
Power Mtr.
Simpl
e
Full call
sequence
Pulsed S-parm.
Pulse profiling
Gain/Flat. Compr'n
Phase/GD AM-PM
Isolation
Rtn Ls/VSWR
Impedance
S-parameters
TG/SA
Param. An.
Intermodulation
Distortion
NF
BER
EVM
ACP
Regrowth
Constell.
Eye
Det/Scope
DC
CW
Swept Swept
freq
power
modulation
RF
Simple
Network Analyzer Basics
Noise
2-tone
Multi-
Stimulus type
Complex
tone
Pulsed-
Protocol
Complex
Copyright
2000
Lightwave Analogy to RF Energy
Incident
Reflected
Transmitted
Lightwave
DUT
RF
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Why Do We Need to Test Components?
• Verify specifications of “building blocks” for more
complex RF systems
• Ensure distortionless transmission
of communications signals
– linear: constant amplitude, linear phase / constant group
delay
– nonlinear: harmonics, intermodulation, compression, AMto-PM conversion
• Ensure good match when absorbing
power (e.g., an antenna)
F
M
9
7
K
P
W
R
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
The Need for Both Magnitude and Phase
S21
1. Complete
characterization of
linear networks
S11
S22
S12
2. Complex impedance
needed to design
matching circuits
4. Time-domain
characterization
Mag
3. Complex values
needed for device
modeling
High-frequency transistor model
Time
5. Vector-error correction
Error
Base
Collector
Emitter
Network Analyzer Basics
Measured
Actual
Copyright
2000
Agenda





Network Analyzer Basics
What measurements do we make?
 Transmission-line basics
 Reflection and transmission
parameters
 S-parameter definition
Network analyzer hardware
 Signal separation devices
 Detection types
 Dynamic range
 T/R versus S-parameter test sets
Error models and calibration
 Types of measurement error
 One- and two-port models
 Error-correction choices
 Basic uncertainty calculations
Example measurements
Appendix
Copyright
2000
Transmission Line Basics
+
I
-
Low frequencies
 wavelengths >> wire length
 current (I) travels down wires easily for efficient
power transmission
 measured voltage and current not dependent on
position along wire
High frequencies
 wavelength  or << length of transmission
medium
 need transmission lines for efficient power
transmission
 matching to characteristic impedance (Zo) is
very important for low reflection and maximum
Network Analyzer Basics
power transfer
Copyright
2000
Transmission line Zo
•
•
Zo determines relationship between voltage and current
waves
Zo is a function of physical dimensions and r
Zo is usually a real impedance (e.g. 50 or 75 ohms)
1.5
attenuation is
lowest at 77 ohms
1.4
1.3
1.2
normalized values
•
1.1
50 ohm standard
1.0
0.9
0.8
0.7
power handling capacity
peaks at 30 ohms
0.6
0.5
10
20
30
40
50
60 70 80 90 100
characteristic impedance
for coaxial airlines (ohms)
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Power Transfer Efficiency
RS
For complex impedances, maximum
power transfer occurs when ZL = ZS*
(conjugate match)
RL
R
s
+
j
X
Load Power
(normalized)
1.2
1
j
X
0.8
0.6
R
L
0.4
0.2
0
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
RL / RS
Maximum power is transferred when RL = RS
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Transmission Line Terminated with Zo
Zs = Zo
Zo = characteristic
impedance
of
transmission line
Zo
Vinc
Vrefl = 0! (all the incident power
is absorbed in the load)
For reflection, a transmission line
terminated in Zo behaves like an infinitely
long transmission line
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Transmission Line Terminated with
Short, Open
Zs = Zo
Vinc
Vrefl
Network Analyzer Basics
In-phase (0o) for open,
out-of-phase (180o) for short
For reflection, a transmission line
terminated in a short or open reflects
all power back to source
Copyright
2000
Transmission Line Terminated with 25 W
Zs = Zo
ZL = 25 W
Vinc
Vrefl
Network Analyzer Basics
Standing wave pattern
does not go to zero as
with short or open
Copyright
2000
High-Frequency Device Characterization
Incident
Transmitted
R
B
Reflected
A
TRANSMISSION
REFLECTION
Reflected
Incident
=
SWR
S-Parameters
S11, S22
Reflection
Coefficient
G, r
Network Analyzer Basics
A
Transmitted
R
Incident
Return
Loss
Impedance,
Admittance
R+jX,
G+jB
=
B
R
Group
Delay
Gain / Loss
S-Parameters
S21, S12
Transmission
Coefficient
T,t
Insertion
Phase
Copyright
2000
Reflection Parameters
Reflection
Coefficient
G
Vreflected
=
=
Vincident
Return loss = -20 log(r),
r
r
F
=
ZL - ZO
Z L + ZO
G
=
Emax
Emin
Voltage Standing Wave
Ratio
Emax
VSWR =
Emin
=
1+r
1-r
Full reflection
(ZL = open, short)
No reflection
(ZL = Zo)
0
r
1
 dB
RL
0 dB
1
VSWR

Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Smith Chart Review
.
+jX
Polar plane
90
o
1.0
.8
.6
0
+R
.4

+ 180 o
-
o
.2
0

0
-jX
-90 o
Rectilinear impedance
plane
Constant X
Constant R
Z L = Zo
Smith Chart maps
rectilinear
impedance
plane onto polar
plane
Network Analyzer Basics
G=
0
G= 1
±180
(open)
ZL =
Z L = 0 (short)
G =1
O
0
Smith chart
Copyright
2000
O
Transmission Parameters
V Incident
DUT
Transmission Coefficient =
T
V
=
Trans
Insertion Loss (dB) = - 20 Log
V
V
Gain (dB) = 20 Log
V
Network Analyzer Basics
Trans
V Transmitted
V Transmitted
V Incident
= - 20 log
=
t
t
Inc
= 20 log
t
Inc
Copyright
2000
Linear Versus Nonlinear Behavior
A * Sin 360o * f (t - to)
A
Linear behavior:

Time
to
Sin 360o * f * t
A
Time
f
1
DUT
Input

phase shift =
to * 360o * f
input and output frequencies are
the same (no additional
frequencies created)
output frequency only undergoes
magnitude and phase change
Frequency
Output
Nonlinear behavior:
f
1

Frequency
Time

f
Network Analyzer Basics
1
Frequency
output frequency may
undergo frequency shift
(e.g. with mixers)
additional frequencies
created (harmonics,
intermodulation)
Copyright
2000
Criteria for Distortionless Transmission
Linear Networks
Linear phase over
bandwidth of
interest
Magnitude
Constant amplitude over
bandwidth of interest
Phase
Frequency
Frequency
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Magnitude Variation with Frequency
F(t) = sin wt + 1/3 sin 3wt + 1/5 sin 5wt
Time
Time
Magnitude
Linear
Network
Frequency
Network Analyzer Basics
Frequency
Frequency
Copyright
2000
Phase Variation with Frequency
F(t) = sin wt + 1 /3 sin 3wt + 1 /5 sin 5wt
Linear Network
Time
Magnitude
Time
Frequency
0°
Frequency
-180°
Frequency
-360 °
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Deviation from Linear Phase
Use electrical delay to
remove linear portion of
phase response
Linear electrical length
added
Phase 45 /Div
RF filter response
Deviation from linear
phase
o
o
Phase 1 /Div
(Electrical delay function)
+
Frequency
Low resolution
Network Analyzer Basics
yields
Frequency
Frequency
High resolution
Copyright
2000
Group Delay
Frequencyw
tg
Group delay ripple
Dw
to

Phase
Average delay
D
Frequency
Group Delay (tg) =
-d 
dw

w

=
-1
360 o
*
d
df
in radians
in radians/sec



group-delay ripple indicates phase distortion
average delay indicates electrical length of DUT
aperture of measurement is very important
in degrees
f in Hertz (w = 2 p f)
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Phase
Phase
Why Measure Group Delay?
f
f
-d 
dw
Group
Delay
Group
Delay
-d 
dw
f
f
Same p-p phase ripple can result in different
group delay
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Characterizing Unknown Devices
Using parameters (H, Y, Z, S) to characterize
devices:




gives linear behavioral model of our device
measure parameters (e.g. voltage and current) versus
frequency under
various source and load conditions
(e.g. short and open circuits)
compute device parameters from measured data
predict
circuit performance
under any source
and load
H-parameters
Y-parameters
Z-parameters
conditions
V1 = h11I1 + h12V2
I1 = y11V1 + y12V2
V1 = z11I1 + z12I2
I2 = h21I1 + h22V2
Network Analyzer Basics
I2 = y21V1 + y22V2
V2 = z21I1 + z22I2
h11 = V1
I1
V2=0
(requires short circuit)
h12 = V1
V2
I1=0
(requires open circuit)
Copyright
2000
Why Use S-Parameters?
relatively easy to obtain at high frequencies
 measure voltage traveling waves with a vector network analyzer
 don't need shorts/opens which can cause active devices to oscillate
or self-destruct
 relate to familiar measurements (gain, loss, reflection coefficient ...)
 can cascade S-parameters of multiple devices to predict system
performance
 can compute H, Y, or Z parameters from S-parameters if desired
S 21
Incident
Transmitted
 can easily import and
use
S-parameter
files in our electronica1
b2
simulation tools S11

DUT
Reflected
b1
Port 1
Transmitted
Port 2
S12
S22
Reflected
a2
Incident
b1 = S11 a1 + S12 a 2
b 2 = S21 a1 + S22 a 2
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Measuring S-Parameters
a1
Forward
S 21 =
b1
Incident
a2 = 0
b1
= a
1
b
a2 = 0
Z0
a2 = 0
DUT
Load
Network Analyzer Basics
S 22 =
2
= a
1
a1 = 0
b1
Load
DUT
Reflected
Transmitted
b2
Transmitted
21
Z0
S 11
Reflected
Incident
S 11 =
S
Incident
Transmitted
S 12
S 12 =
Reflected
Incident
Transmitted
Incident
S 22
b2
= a
2
b
a1 = 0
1
= a
2
a1 = 0
b2
Reverse
Reflected
a2
Incident
Copyright
2000
Equating S-Parameters with Common
Measurement Terms
S11 = forward reflection coefficient (input match)
S22 = reverse reflection coefficient (output match)
S21 = forward transmission coefficient (gain or loss)
S12 = reverse transmission coefficient (isolation)
Remember, S-parameters are
inherently complex, linear
quantities -- however, we often
express them in a log-magnitude
format
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Criteria for Distortionless Transmission
Nonlinear Networks
•
•
Saturation, crossover,
intermodulation, and other nonlinear
effects can cause signal distortion
Effect on system depends on amount
and type of distortion and system
architecture
Time
Frequency
Network Analyzer Basics
Time
Frequency
Copyright
2000
Measuring Nonlinear Behavior
Most common measurements:
 using a network analyzer and
power sweeps
 gain compression
 AM to PM conversion
 using a spectrum analyzer +
source(s)
 harmonics, particularly second
and third
 intermodulation products resulting
from two or more RF
carriers
8563A
LPF
LPF
Network Analyzer Basics
SPECTRUM ANALYZER
RL 0 dBm
ATTEN
10 dB
10 dB / DIV
9 kHz - 26.5 GHz
DUT
CENTER 20.00000 MHz
RB 30 Hz
VB 30 Hz
SPAN 10.00 kHz
ST 20 sec
Copyright
2000
What is the Difference
Between Network and
Spectrum Analyzers?
.
Measures
known
signal
Amplitude
Amplitude Ratio
8563A
measure components,
devices,
circuits, sub-assemblies
 contain source and receiver
 display ratioed amplitude and
phase
(frequency or power sweeps)
 offer advanced error
Network
Analyzer Basics
correction

9 kHz - 26.5
Measures
unknown
signals
Frequency
Network analyzers:
SPECTRUM ANALYZER
GHz
Frequency
Spectrum analyzers:




measure signal amplitude
characteristics
carrier level, sidebands,
harmonics...)
can demodulate (& measure)
complex signals
are receivers only (single channel)
Copyright
can be used for scalar component
2000
test (no
Agenda





Network Analyzer Basics
What measurements do we make?
Network analyzer hardware
Error models and calibration
Example measurements
Appendix
Copyright
2000
Generalized Network Analyzer
Block Diagram
Incident
Transmitted
DUT
SOURCE
Reflected
SIGNAL
SEPARATION
INCIDENT
(R)
REFLECTED
(A)
TRANSMITTED
(B)
RECEIVER / DETECTOR
PROCESSOR / DISPLAY
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Source




Supplies stimulus for system
Swept frequency or power
Traditionally NAs used separate
source
Most Agilent analyzers sold
today have integrated,
synthesized sources
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Incident
Signal Separation
Transmitted
DUT
Reflected
SOURCE
SIGNAL
SEPARATION
INCIDENT (R)
REFLECTED
(A)
TRANSMITTED
(B)
RECEIVER / DETECTOR
PROCESSOR / DISPLAY
•
•
measure incident signal for reference
separate incident and reflected signals
splitter
bridge
directional
coupler
Network Analyzer Basics
Detector
Test Port
Copyright
2000
Directivity
Directivity is a measure of how well a
coupler can separate signals moving
in opposite directions
(undesired leakage
signal)
(desired reflected
signal)
Test port
Directional Coupler
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Interaction of Directivity with the
DUT (Without Error Correction)
0
Device
Return Loss
Directivity
Data Max
DUT RL = 40 dB
30
Add in-phase
60
Network Analyzer Basics
Device
Device
Directivity
Frequency
Data Min
Add out-of-phase
(cancellation)
Data = Vector Sum
Directivity
Copyright
2000
Incident
Detector Types
Transmitted
DUT
Reflected
SOURCE
Diode
Scalar broadband
(no phase
information)
SIGNAL
SEPARATION
INCIDENT (R)
REFLECTED
(A)
TRANSMITTED
(B)
RECEIVER / DETECTOR
PROCESSOR / DISPLAY
DC
RF
AC
Tuned Receiver
IF = F LO  F RF
RF
ADC / DSP
Vector
(magnitude and
phase)
IF Filter
LO
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Broadband Diode Detection
Easy to make broadband
 Inexpensive compared to tuned receiver
 Good for measuring frequency-translating devices
 Improve dynamic range by increasing power
 Medium sensitivity / dynamic range

10 MHz
Network Analyzer Basics
26.5 GHz
Copyright
2000
Narrowband Detection - Tuned Receiver
ADC / DSP
Best sensitivity / dynamic range
 Provides harmonic / spurious signal
rejection
 Improve dynamic range by increasing
power, decreasing IF bandwidth, or
averaging
 Trade off noise floor and
measurement speed

10 MHz
Network Analyzer Basics
26.5 GHz
Copyright
2000
Comparison of Receiver Techniques
Broadband
(diode)
detection
0 dB
0 dB
-50 dB
-50 dB
-100 dB
-100 dB
-60 dBm Sensitivity
higher noise floor
 false responses

Narrowband
(tuned-receiver)
detection
< -100 dBm Sensitivity
high dynamic range
 harmonic immunity

Dynamic range = maximum receiver power receiver noise floor
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Dynamic Range and Accuracy
Error Due to Interfering Signal
100
-
Error (dB, deg)
10
+
Dynamic range
is very important
for measurement
accuracy!
phase error
1
magn error
0.1
0.01
0.001
0
-5
-10
-15
-20
-25
-30
-35
-40
-45
-50
-55
-60
-65
-70
Interfering signal (dB)
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
T/R Versus S-Parameter Test Sets
S-Parameter Test Set
Transmission/Reflection Test Set
Source
Source
Transfer switch
R
R
B
A
Port 1
Port 2
Fwd
Port 2
Port 1
Fwd
DUT
RF always comes out port
1
 port 2 is always receiver
 response, one-port cal
Network Analyzer Basics
available

B
A



DUT
Rev
RF comes out port 1 or port
2
forward and reverse
measurements
Copyright
two-port calibration 2000
Processor / Display
Incident
Transmitted
DUT
50 MH-20GHz
NETWORK ANYZER
ACTIVE
CHANNEL
Reflected
CH2 START 775.000 000 MHz
CH1 START 775.000 000 MHz
SOURCE
ENTRY
STOP 925.000 000 MHz
STOP 925.000 000 MHz
Hld
RESPONSE
PASS
2
Cor
PRm
SIGNAL
SEPARATION
880.435 000 MHz
1
PASS
Hld
1
STIMULUS
R CHANNEL
INSTRUMENT
STATE
1
Cor
INCIDENT
(R)
REFLECTED
(A)
TRANSMITTED
(B)
PRm
T
Duplexer Test - Tx-Ant and Ant-Rx
839.470 000 MHz
CH2
CH1
S12
S21
log MAG
log MAG
10 dB/
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
REF 0 dB
PORT 1
1_ -1.2468 dB
1_ -1.9248 dB
HP-IB STATUS
PORT 2
RECEIVER / DETECTOR
PROCESSOR / DISPLAY
CH2 START 775.000 000 MHz
CH1 START 775.000 000 MHz
STOP 925.000 000 MHz
STOP 925.000 000 MHz
Hld
PASS
2
Cor
markers
 limit lines
 pass/fail indicators
 linear/log formats
 grid/polar/Smith
charts

Network Analyzer Basics
PRm
880.435 000 MHz
1
PASS
Hld
1
1
Cor
PRm
Duplexer Test - Tx-Ant and Ant-Rx
839.470 000 MHz
CH2
CH1
S12
S21
log MAG
log MAG
10 dB/
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
REF 0 dB
1_ -1.2468 dB
1_ -1.9248 dB
Copyright
2000
R L
S
Internal Measurement Automation
Simple: recall states
More powerful:

Test sequencing




available on 8753/ 8720
families
keystroke recording
some advanced functions
IBASIC



available on 8712 family
sophisticated programs
custom user interfaces
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ0123456789 + - / * = < > ( ) & "" " , . / ? ; : ' [ ]
1 ASSIGN @Hp8714 TO 800
2 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"SYST:PRES; *WAI"
3 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"ABOR;:INIT1:CONT OFF;*WAI"
4 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"DISP:ANN:FREQ1:MODE SSTOP"
5 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"DISP:ANN:FREQ1:MODE CSPAN"
6 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"SENS1:FREQ:CENT 175000000 HZ;*WAI"
7 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"ABOR;:INIT1:CONT OFF;:INIT1;*WAI"
8 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"DISP:WIND1:TRAC:Y:AUTO ONCE"
9 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"CALC1:MARK1 ON"
10 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"CALC1:MARK:FUNC BWID"
11 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"SENS2:STAT ON; *WAI"
12 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"SENS2:FUNC 'XFR:POW:RAT 1,0';DET NBAN; *WAI"
13 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"ABOR;:INIT1:CONT OFF;:INIT1;*WAI"
14 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"DISP:WIND2:TRAC:Y:AUTO ONCE"
15 OUTPUT @Hp8714;"ABOR;:INIT1:CONT ON;*WAI"
16 END
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Agilent’s Series of HF Vector Analyzers
Microwave
8510C series
8720ET/ES series





13.5, 20, 40 GHz
economical
fast, small, integrated
test mixers, high-power
amps




RF
8712ET/ES series




Network Analyzer Basics
1.3, 3 GHz
low cost
narrowband and
broadband
detection
IBASIC / LAN
110 GHz in
coax
highest
accuracy
modular,
flexible
pulse systems
Tx/Rx module
test
8753ET/ES
series





3, 6 GHz
highest RF
accuracy
flexible
hardware
more features
OffsetCopyright
and
2000
harmonic
RF
Agilent’s LF/RF Vector Analyzers
Combination NA / SA
4395A/4396B






500 MHz (4395A), 1.8 GHz (4396B)
impedance-measuring option
fast, FFT-based spectrum analysis
time-gated spectrum-analyzer option
IBASIC
standard test fixtures
E5100A/B


LF




Network Analyzer Basics
180, 300 MHz
economical
fast, small
target markets: crystals, resonators, filters
equivalent-circuit models
evaporation-monitor-function option
Copyright
2000
Spectrum Analyzer / Tracking Generator
RF in
IF
8563A
SPECTRUM ANALYZER
9 kHz - 26.5 GHz
LO
DUT
Spectrum analyzer
TG out
f = IF
DUT
Tracking generator
Key differences from network analyzer:

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
one channel -- no ratioed or phase measurements
More expensive than scalar NA (but better dynamic range)
Only error correction available is normalization (and possibly
open-short averaging)
Poorer accuracy
Small incremental cost if SA is required for other measurements
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Agenda
What measurements do
we make?

Network analyzer
hardware

Error models and
calibration

Example measurements

Appendix
Why do we even need error-correction and
calibration?
 It is impossible to make perfect hardware
 It would be extremely expensive to make
hardware
good enough to eliminate the need for error
correction

Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Calibration Topics
What measurements do we
make?
 Network analyzer hardware
 Error models and calibration
 measurement errors
 what is vector error
correction?
 calibration types
 accuracy examples
 calibration considerations
 Example measurements
 Appendix

Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Measurement Error Modeling
Systematic errors
 due to imperfections in the analyzer and test setup
 assumed to be time invariant (predictable)
Random errors
 vary with time in random fashion (unpredictable)
 main contributors: instrument noise, switch and
connector repeatability
Drift errors
 due to system performance changing after a calibration
has been done
 primarily caused by temperature variation
Errors:
Measured
Data
SYSTEMATIC
RANDO
M
Unknown
Device
DRIFT
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Systematic Measurement Errors
R
A
B
Crosstalk
Directivity
DUT
Frequency response
 reflection tracking (A/R)
 transmission tracking (B/R)
Source
Mismatch
Load
Mismatch
Six forward and six reverse error
terms yields 12 error terms for twoport devices
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Types of Error Correction

response (normalization)
simple to perform
only corrects for tracking errors
thru
stores reference trace in memory,
then does data divided by memory
vector
requires more standards
requires an analyzer that can measure phase
accounts for all major sources of systematic error

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


SHORT
S11a
S11 m
Network Analyzer Basics
thru
OPEN
LOAD
Copyright
2000
What is Vector-Error Correction?

Process of characterizing systematic error terms
measure known standards
remove effects from subsequent measurements
1-port calibration (reflection measurements)
only 3 systematic error terms measured
directivity, source match, and reflection tracking
Full 2-port calibration (reflection and transmission
measurements)
12 systematic error terms measured
usually requires 12 measurements on four known
standards (SOLT)
Standards defined in cal kit definition file
network analyzer contains standard cal kit definitions
CAL KIT DEFINITION MUST MATCH ACTUAL CAL
KIT USED!
Network Analyzer Basics
User-built standards must be characterized and
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Copyright
2000
Reflection: One-Port Model
Ideal
RF in
Error Adapter
RF in
1
ED = Directivity
S11A
ES
ED
S11M
S11M
ERT


S11A
ERT = Reflection tracking
ES = Source Match
S11M = Measured
S11A = Actual
To solve for error terms,
S11A
we measure 3 standards
S11M = ED +
to generate 3 equations
1 - ES S11A
ERT
and 3 unknowns
Assumes good termination at port two if testing two-port devices
If using port 2 of NA and DUT reverse isolation is low (e.g., filter passband):
assumption of good termination is not valid
two-port error correction yields better results


Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Before and After One-Port Calibration
0
2.0
data before 1-port
calibration
1.1
VSWR
Return Loss (dB)
20
40
1.01
data after 1-port
calibration
60
1.001
6000
Network Analyzer Basics
MHz
12000
Copyright
2000
Two-Port Error Correction
Reverse model
Forward model
Port 1
Port 2
E RT'
Port 1
EX
Port 2
S21
a1
a1
ED
S21A
ES
S11A
b1
E RT
S22 A
S 12
ETT
EL
b2
E L'
b1
S11
A
b2
A
S22 A
E S'
ED'
a2
a2
E TT'
S12 A
EX'
A
ED = fwd directivity
E S = fwd source match
ERT = fwd reflection tracking
EL = fwd load match
ETT = fwd transmission tracking
EX = fwd isolation
E D' = rev directivity
E S' = rev source match
E RT' = rev reflection tracking
EL' = rev load match
ETT' = rev transmission tracking
EX' = rev isolation
Each actual S-parameter is a
function
of all four measured
S-parameters
 Analyzer must make forward
and reverse sweep to update
any one S-parameter
 Luckily, you don't need to know
these equations to use network
Network Analyzer Basics
analyzers!!!
S22a =
E RT
E RT '
E TT
ETT '
(1  11m
E S )(1  22m
E S ' ) - E L ' E L ( 21m
)( 12m
)
D
D
X
S
-E
S
-E '
S
-E
S
- EX '
E RT '
E RT
E TT
E TT '
(
)( 1 
ES ) - E L ' (
)(
)
22
m
D
11
m
D
21
m
X
12
m
-E '
-E
-E
- EX '
S
S
S
S
S12a =
E RT
E RT '
E TT
E TT '
(1  11m
E S )(1  22m
E S ' ) - E L ' E L ( 21m
)( 12m
)
D
D
X
S
-E
S
-E '
S
-E
S
- EX '
E TT '
E RT
( 12m
)(1  11m
( E S - E L ' ))
X
S
-E '
S
- ED
S21a =
E RT
E RT '
E TT
ETT '
(1  11m
E S )(1  22m
E S ' ) - E L ' E L ( 21m
)( 12 m
)
D
D
X
-E
-E '
-E
- EX '
S
S
S
S
E TT
E RT '
(
)(1 
( E S '- E L ))
S21m - E X
S22 m - E D '
S11a =
E RT
E RT '
E TT
ETT '
(1  11m
E S )(1  22m
E S ' ) - E L ' E L ( 21m
)( 12 m
)
D'
D
X
-E
-E '
-E
- EX '
S
S
S
S
E RT
E RT '
E TT
E TT '
( 11m
)(1  22m
E S ' ) - E L ( 21m
)( 12 m
)
D
D
X
S
-E
S
-E '
S
-E
S
- EX '

Copyright
2000

Crosstalk: Signal Leakage
Between Test Ports During
CanTransmission
be a problem with:
DUT
high-isolation devices (e.g., switch in open position)
high-dynamic range devices (some filter
stopbands)
 Isolation calibration
adds noise to error model (measuring near noise
floor of system)
only perform if really needed (use averaging if
necessary)
if crosstalk is independent of DUT match, use two
terminations
if dependent on DUT match, use DUT with
termination on output
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


LOAD
Network Analyzer Basics
DUT
DUT
LOAD
Copyright
2000
Errors and Calibration Standards
UNCORRECTED
FULL 2-PORT
RESPONSE
1-PORT
SHORT
DUT
OPEN
thru

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
Convenient
Generally not
accurate
No errors removed
LOAD


Easy to perform
Use when highest
accuracy is not
required
Removes
frequency
response error
OPEN
OPEN
LOAD
LOAD
DUT



ENHANCED-RESPONSE
Combines response and 1-port
 Corrects source match for transmission
measurements
Network Analyzer Basics
SHORT
DUT


SHORT
For reflection
measurements
Need good termination for
high accuracy with twoport devices
Removes these errors:
Directivity
Source match
Reflection tracking
thru
DUT


Highest accuracy
Removes these
errors:
Directivity
Source, load
match
Reflection
tracking
Transmission
Copyright
tracking
2000
Crosstalk
Calibration Summary
Reflection
Test Set (cal type)
T/R
S-parameter
(one-port)

Reflection tracking

Directivity

Source match

Load match
SHORT
(two-port)
OPEN
LOAD
Test Set (cal type)
Transmission
T/R
S-parameter
(two-port)
(response, isolation)
error can be corrected

Transmission Tracking

Crosstalk

Source match (

Load match
error cannot be corrected
*
enhanced response cal corrects
for source match during
transmission measurements
Network Analyzer Basics
* )
Copyright
2000
Reflection Example Using a One-Port Cal
Load
match:
18 dB
(.126)
Directivity:
40 dB (.010)
.158
(.891)(.126)(.891) = .100
DUT
Remember: convert all dB
values to linear for
uncertainty calculations!
(-dB )
r or loss(linear) = 10
20
16 dB RL (.158)
1 dB loss (.891)
Measurement uncertainty:
-20 * log (.158 + .100 + .010)
= 11.4 dB (-4.6dB)
-20 * log (.158 - .100 - .010)
= 26.4 dB (+10.4 dB)
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Using a One-Port Cal +
Attenuator
Directivity:
40 dB (.010)
.158
Load
match:
18 dB
(.126)
10 dB attenuator
(.316) SWR =
1.05 (.024)
Measurement
uncertainty:
-20 * log (.158 +
.039)
= 14.1 dB (-1.9 dB)
-20 * log (.158 - .039)
= 18.5 dB (+2.5 dB)
DUT
16 dB RL (.158)
1 dB loss (.891)
Low-loss bi-directional devices
generally require two-port
(.891)(.024)(.891) = .019
calibration
Worst-case error = .010 + .010 + .019 = .039
for low measurement uncertainty
(.891)(.316)(.126)(.316)(.891) = .010
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Transmission Example Using Response
Cal
RL = 18 dB (.126)
RL = 14 dB (.200)
Thru calibration (normalization) builds error
into measurement due to source and load
match interaction
Calibration
Uncertainty
= (1 ± rS rL)
= (1 ± (.200)(.126)
= ± 0.22 dB
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Filter Measurement with Response Cal
Source match
= 14 dB (.200)
DUT
1 dB loss (.891)
16 dB RL (.158)
Load match
= 18 dB
(.126)
1
(.126)(.158) = .020
(.126)(.891)(.200)(.891) = .020
(.158)(.200) = .032
Total measurement
uncertainty:
+0.60 + 0.22 = + 0.82
dB
-0.65 - 0.22 = - 0.87
Network Analyzer Basics
dB
Measurement uncertainty
= 1 ± (.020+.020+.032)
= 1 ± .072
= + 0.60 dB
- 0.65 dB
Copyright
2000
Measuring Amplifiers with a Response Cal
Source match
= 14 dB (.200)
DUT
16 dB RL
(.158)
Load match
= 18 dB
(.126)
1
(.126)(.158) = .020
(.158)(.200) = .032
Total measurement
uncertainty:
+0.44 + 0.22 = + 0.66
dB
-0.46 - 0.22 = - 0.68
Network Analyzer Basics
dB
Measurement uncertainty
= 1 ± (.020+.032)
= 1 ± .052
= + 0.44 dB
- 0.46 dB
Copyright
2000
Filter Measurements
using the Enhanced
Response Calibration
Effective source match =
35 dB!
Source
match = 35
dB (.0178)
DUT
1 dB loss (.891)
16 dB RL (.158)
Load
match =
18 dB
(.126)
Calibration Uncertainty
=(1 ± rS rL)
= (1 ±
(.0178)(.126)
= ± .02 dB
1
Measurement uncertainty
= 1 ± (.020+.0018+.0028)
(.126)(.158) = .020
= 1 ± .0246
= + 0.211 dB
(.126)(.891)(.0178)(.891) = .0018
- 0.216 dB
(.158)(.0178) = .0028
Total measurement
uncertainty:
0.22 + .02 = ± 0.24 dB
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Using the Enhanced Response
Calibration Plus an Attenuator
10 dB attenuator (.316)
SWR = 1.05 (.024 linear or 32.4
dB)
Analyzer
load match =18 dB (.126)
Source match
= 35 dB
(.0178)
DUT
1 dB loss (.891)
16 dB RL (.158)
Calibration Uncertainty
=(1 ± rS rL)
= (1 ±
(.0178)(.0366)
= ± .01 dB
Effective load match = (.316)(.316)(.126) + .024
= .0366 (28.7dB)
1
Measurement uncertainty
= 1 ± (.006+.0005+.0028)
(.0366)(.158) = .006
= 1 ± .0093
(.0366)(.891)(.0178)(.891) = .0005 = ± 0.08 dB
(.158)(.0178) = .0028
Total measurement
uncertainty:
0.01 + .08 = ± 0.09 dB
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Calculating Measurement
Uncertainty After a Two-Port DUT
1 dB loss (.891)
Calibration
16 dB RL (.158)
Corrected error terms:
(8753ES 1.3-3 GHz Type-N)
Directivity
dB
Source match =
Load match
dB
Refl. tracking =
dB
Trans. tracking
.026 dB
Isolation
=
=
47
36 dB
=
47
.019
Reflection uncertainty
= 0158
.
 (.0045  0158
. 2 *.0158  0.8912 *.0045  0158
. *.0022)
S11m = S11a  ( E D  S11a E S  S 21a S12 a E L  S11a (1 - E RT ))
2
= 0.158 ± .0088 = 16 dB +0.53 dB, -0.44 dB (worst-case)
=
100 dB
Transmission uncertainty
= 0.891  0.891(10 -6 / 0.891  0158
. *.0158  0.8912 *.0158*.0045  0158
. *.0045.003)
S 21m = S 21a  S 21a ( E I / S 21a  S11a E S  S 21a S12 a E S E L  S 22 a E L  (1 - E TT ))
= 0.891 ± .0056 = 1 dB ±0.05 dB (worst-case)
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Response versus Two-Port Calibration
Measuring filter insertion loss
CH1 S21 &M log MAG
CH2 MEM
log MAG
Cor
1 dB/
1 dB/
REF 0 dB
REF 0 dB
After two-port calibration
After response calibration
Uncorrected
Cor
x2 1
2
START 2 000.000 MHz
Network Analyzer Basics
STOP 6 000.000 MHz
Copyright
2000
ECal: Electronic Calibration (85060/90
series)
•
•
•
Variety of modules cover 30 kHz to 26.5
GHz
Six connector types available (50 W and
sa
75 W)
Single-connection
reduces calibration time
makes calibrations easy to perform
minimizes wear on cables and
standards
eliminates operator errors
Highly repeatable temperatureMicrowave modules use a
compensated terminations provide
transmission line shunted by
excellent accuracy
PIN-diode switches in various
85093A
Electronic Calibration Module
30 kHz - 6 GHz

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•
combinations
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Adapter
reflection from
Considerations
desired signal
adapter
leakage signal
r
measured = Directivity +
r
adapter +
r
DUT
Coupler directivity = 40 dB
Adapter
Worst-case
System Directivity
28 dB
17 dB
14 dB
Network Analyzer Basics
DUT
Termination
DUT has SMA (f) connectors
APC-7 calibration done here
Adapting from APC-7 to SMA
(m)
APC-7 to SMA (m)
SWR:1.06
APC-7 to N (f) + N (m) to SMA (m)
SWR:1.05
SWR:1.25
APC-7 to N (m) + N (f) to SMA (f) + SMA (m) to (m)
SWR:1.05
SWR:1.25
SWR:1.15
Copyright
2000
Calibrating Non-Insertable
Devices
When doing a through cal, normally test ports
mate directly
 cables can be connected directly without an
adapter
 result is a zero-length through
What is an insertable device?
 has same type of connector, but different sex on
each port
 has same type of sexless connector on each
port (e.g. APC-7)
What is a non-insertable device?
 one that cannot be inserted in place of a zerolength through
 has same connectors on each port (type and
sex)
 has different type of connector on each port
(e.g., waveguide on one port, coaxial on
Network Analyzer Basics
the other)
DUT
Copyright
2000
Swap Equal Adapters Method
Port 1
Port 1
Adapter
A
Port 1
Port 1
Port 2
DUT
DUT
Network Analyzer Basics
Accuracy depends on how well
the adapters are matched - loss,
electrical length, match and
impedance should all be equal
1. Transmission cal using adapter A.
Port 2
Adapter
B
Port 2
2. Reflection cal using adapter B.
Adapter
B
Port 2
3. Measure DUT using adapter B.
Copyright
2000
Adapter Removal Calibration





Calibration is very accurate and traceable
In firmware of 8753, 8720 and 8510 series
Port 1
Also accomplished with ECal modules (85060/90)
Uses adapter with same connectors as DUT
Must specify electrical length of adapter to within
1/4 wavelength of highest frequency (to avoid
phase ambiguity)
Cal
Adapter
Port 1
Adapter
B
Port 2
Adapter
B
Port 2
DUT
Port 2
1. Perform 2-port cal with adapter on port 2.
Save in cal set 1.
Cal Set 1
Port 1
Cal
Adapter
2. Perform 2-port cal with adapter on port 1.
Save in cal set 2.
Cal Set 2
[CAL] [MORE] [MODIFY CAL SET]
[ADAPTER REMOVAL]
Port 1
Network Analyzer Basics
DUT
Adapter
B
Port 2
3. Use ADAPTER REMOVAL
to generate new cal set.
4. Measure DUT without cal adapter.
Copyright
2000
Thru-Reflect-Line (TRL) Calibration
We know about Short-Open-Load-Thru (SOLT) calibration...
What is TRL?
 A two-port calibration technique
 Good for noncoaxial environments (waveguide,
fixtures, wafer probing)
 Uses the same 12-term error model as the more
common SOLT cal
 Uses practical calibration standards that
TRL was developed for nonare easily fabricated and characterized
coaxial microwave
 Two variations: TRL (requires 4 receivers)
measurements
and TRL* (only three receivers needed)
 Other variations: Line-Reflect-Match (LRM),
Thru-Reflect-Match (TRM), plus many others
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Agenda





Network Analyzer Basics
What measurements do we make?
Network analyzer hardware
Error models and calibration
Example measurements
Appendix
Copyright
2000
Frequency Sweep - Filter Test
CH1 S 21
log MAG
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
CH1 S11
log MAG
5 dB/
REF 0 dB
Cor
Stopba
nd
rejectio
n
69.1 dB
START .300 000 MHz
STOP 400.000 000 MHz
CH1 S21
SPAN 50.000 MHz
CENTER 200.000 MHz
log MAG
1 dB/
REF 0 dB
Return loss
Cor
1
4.000 000
GHz -
m1:
0.16 dB
m2-ref: 2.145 234 GHz
0.00 dB
ref
2
Insertion lossCor
x2 1
START 2 000.000 MHz
Network Analyzer Basics
2
STOP 6 000.000 MHz
Copyright
2000
Optimize Filter Measurements with
Swept-List Mode
Segment 3: 29 ms
(108 points, -10 dBm, 6000 Hz)
CH1 S 21
log MAG
12 dB/
REF 0 dB
PRm
Swept-list sweep: 349
ms
(201 pts, variable BW's &
power) PASS
Linear sweep: 676
ms
(201 pts, 300 Hz, -10
dBm)
Segment 5: 129 ms
(38 points, +10 dBm, 300 Hz)
Segment 1: 87 ms
(25 points, +10 dBm, 300 Hz)
START 525.000 000 MHz
STOP 1 275.000 000 MHz
Segments 2,4: 52 ms
(15 points, +10 dBm, 300 Hz)
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Output Power (dBm)
Power Sweeps - Compression
Saturated output
power
Compression
region
Linear region
(slope = small-signal gain)
Input Power (dBm)
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Power Sweep - Gain Compression
CH1 S21
1og MAG
1 dB/ REF 32 dB
30.991 dB
12.3 dBm
1 dB
compression:
1
0
START -10 dBm
Network Analyzer Basics
CW 902.7 MHz
input power
resulting in 1 dB
drop in gain
STOP 15 dBm
Copyright
2000
AM to PM Conversion
Amplitude
Measure of phase deviation caused by
amplitude
Power sweep variations

AM
(dB)
Mag(Ami
n)

DUT
AM can be undesired:
supply ripple, fading, thermal
AM can be desired:
modulation (e.g. QAM)
PM
(deg)
Test Stimulus
Q
Time
Amplitude
AM
(dB)
AM - PM Conversion
=
Mag(Pm
(deg/d
)
Mag(Am
out
B)
)
in
Mag(AMo
ut)
PM
(deg)
Mag(Pmo
ut)
Output
Response
Network Analyzer Basics
Time
I
AM to PM
conversion can
cause bit errors
Copyright
2000
Measuring AM to PM Conversion
1:Transmission
Log Mag 1.0 dB/
2:Transmission /M Phase
5.0 deg/
Ch1:Mkr1
20.48
dB
Ch2:Mkr2
0.86 deg
Ref 21.50 dB
Ref -115.7 deg
-4.50 dBm
1.00 dB

2

1

Use transmission setup
with a power sweep
Display phase of S21
AM - PM = 0.86 deg/dB
2
1
Start -10.00 dBm
Start -10.00 dBm
Network Analyzer Basics
CW 900.000 MHz
CW 900.000 MHz
1
Stop 0.00 dBm
Stop 0.00 dBm
Copyright
2000
Agenda

What measurements do we make?
Network analyzer hardware
Error models and calibration
Example measurements

Appendix






Network Analyzer Basics
Advanced Topics
time domain
frequency-translating devices
high-power amplifiers
extended dynamic range
multiport devices
in-fixture measurements
crystal resonators
balanced/differential
Inside the network analyzer
Challenge quiz!
Copyright
2000
Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR)

What is TDR?
time-domain reflectometry
analyze impedance versus time
distinguish between inductive and
capacitive transitions
With gating:
analyze transitions
inductive
analyzer standards
transition





impedance

Zo
time
capacitive
transition
Network Analyzer Basics
non-Zo transmission line
Copyright
2000
TDR Basics Using a Network Analyzer



start with broadband frequency sweep (often requires microwave VNA
use inverse-Fourier transform to compute time-domain
resolution inversely proportionate to frequency span
Time Domain
Frequency Domain
F
CH1 S 22
-1
Cor
 F(t)*dt
Integrate
0
TDR
F
t
Network Analyzer Basics
50 mU/ REF 0 U
20 GHz
f
t
t
Re
6 GHz
1/s*F(s)
-1
f
CH1 START 0 s
STOP 1.5 ns
Copyright
2000
Time-Domain Gating




TDR and gating can remove undesired reflections (a form of
error correction)
Only useful for broadband devices (a load or thru for example)
Define gate to only include DUT
CH1 S11&M log MAG
5 dB/
REF 0 dB
Use two-port calibration
PRm
Cor
CH1 MEM Re
PRm
Cor
20 mU/
2
REF 0 U
1: 48.729 mU 638 ps
RISE TIME
29.994 ps
8.992 mm
1: -45.113 dB 0.947
GHz
2: -15.78 dB 6.000
GHz
Gate
2: 24.961 mU 668 ps
1
3: -10.891 mU 721 ps
2
3
Thru in time domain
CH1 START 0 s
Network Analyzer Basics
STOP 1.5 ns
1
Thru in frequency
domain, with and
without gating
START .050 000 000 GHz
STOP 20.050 000 000 GHz
Copyright
2000
Ten Steps for Performing TDR
1. Set up desired frequency range (need wide span for good
spatial resolution)
2. Under SYSTEM, transform menu, press "set freq low
pass"
3. Perform one- or two-port calibration
4. Select S11 measurement *
5. Turn on transform (low pass step) *
6. Set format to real *
7. Adjust transform window to trade off rise time with ringing
and overshoot *
8. Adjust start and stop times if desired
9. For gating:
 set start and stop frequencies for gate
 turn gating on *
 adjust gate shape to trade off resolution with ripple *
10. To display gated response in frequency domain
turntwo
transform
(leave
gatingthese
on)parameters
*
* If using
channels off
(even
if coupled),
must be set
independently
for second
channel
 change format
to log-magnitude
*
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Time-Domain Transmission
RF Input
RF Output
CH1 S21 log MAG
Main Wave
Leakage
Surface
Wave
Triple
Travel
CH1 S21
log MAG
15 dB/ REF 0 dB
10 dB/ REF 0 dB
Cor
Cor
RF
Leakage
Triple
Travel
Gate off
Gate on
Network Analyzer Basics
STOP 6 us
START -1 us
Copyright
2000
Time-Domain Filter Tuning
•
•
Deterministic method used
for tuning cavity-resonator
filters
Traditional frequencydomain tuning is very
difficult:
lots of training needed
may take 20 to 90
minutes to tune a
single filter
Need VNA with fast sweep
speeds and fast timedomain processing


•
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Filter Reflection in Time Domain
•
•
•
Network Analyzer Basics
Set analyzer’s center frequency
= center frequency of the filter
Measure S11 or S22 in the time
domain
Nulls in the time-domain response
correspond to individual resonators
in filter
Copyright
2000
Tuning Resonator #3
•
•
•
•
Network Analyzer Basics
Easier to identify mistuned
resonator
in time-domain:
null #3 is missing
Hard to tell which resonator is
mistuned from frequencydomain response
Adjust resonators by minimizing
null
Adjust coupling apertures using
the peaks in-between
the dips
Copyright
2000
Frequency-Translating Devices
Medium-dynamic range
measurements (35 dB)
High-dynamic range measurements
(100 dB)
FREQ OFFS
ON off
8753ES
8753ES
LO
MENU
Ref In
1
2
Filter
DOWN
CONVERTER
Ref out
UP
CONVERTER
Attenuator
Start: 900 MHz
Stop: 650 MHz
Attenuator
Start: 100 MHz
Stop: 350 MHz
Fixed LO: 1 GHz
LO power: 13 dBm
Ref in
RF > LO
Reference
mixer
RF < LO
VIEW
MEASURE
Filter
Attenuator
RETURN
C
H
1
C
O
N
V
M
E
A
S
l
o
g
M
A
G
1
0
d
B
/
R
E
F
1
0
d
B
DUT
Attenuator
Attenuat
or
Powe
r
splitt
er
ESG-D4000A
S
T
A
R
T
6
4
0
.
0
0
0
0
0
0
M
H
z
Network Analyzer Basics
S
T
O
P
6
6
0
.
0
0
0
0
0
0
M
H
z
Copyright
2000
High-Power Amplifiers
Preamp
8753ES
Source
Ref In
Preamp
AUT
DUT
R
B
A
AUT
+43 dBm max input (20 watts!)
8720ES Option 085
85118A High-Power
Amplifier Test System
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
High-Dynamic Range
Measurements
CH1 MEM
CH2 MEM
LOG
LOG
15 dB/ REF 3 dB
15 dB/ REF 3 dB
•
•
PRm
Cor
Avg
10
PRm
Standard 8753ES
Cor
Avg
10
•
8753ES Special Option H16
CH1
CH2
Network Analyzer Basics
START 775. 000 000 MHz
START 775. 000 000 MHz
STOP 1000. 000 000 MHz
STOP 1000. 000 000 MHz
Copyright
2000
Multiport Device Test
8753 H39
CH1
CH2
S 21
S 12
log MAG
log MAG
10 dB/
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
REF 0 dB
1_ -1.9248 dB
1_ -1.2468 dB
839.470 000 MHz
PRm
Duplexer Test - Tx-Ant and Ant-Rx
Cor
1
1
Hld
PASS
1
880.435 000 MHz
PRm
Cor
2
PASS
Hld
CH1 START 775.000 000 MHz
CH2 START 775.000 000 MHz
Network Analyzer Basics
STOP 925.000 000 MHz
STOP 925.000 000 MHz
Multiport analyzers and test sets:
 improve throughput by reducing the
number of connections to DUTs with
more than two ports
 allow simultaneous viewing of two
paths
(good for tuning duplexers)
 include mechanical or solid-state
switches, 50 or 75 ohms
 degrade raw performance so
calibration is a must (use two-port
cals whenever possible)
 Agilent offers a variety of standard
and custom multiport analyzers and
test sets
Copyright
2000
SelfCal
SelfCal
Once a month:
perform a Test Set Cal with
external standards to remove
systematic errors in the
analyzer, test set, cables, and
fixture
Test Set Cal
87050E/87075C Standard Multiport Test Sets
Fixture
DUT
Once an hour:
•
•
•
•
•
automatically perform a
For use with 8712E family
SelfCal using internal
standards to remove
systematic errors in the
50 W: 3 MHz to 2.2 GHz, 4, 8, or 12 ports
analyzer and test set
75 W: 3 MHz to 1.3 GHz, 6 or 12 ports
Test Set Cal and SelfCal dramatically improve
calibration times
Systems offer fully-specified performance at test
ports
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Test Set Cal Eliminates
Redundant Connections of
Calibration Standards
Through Connections
Reflection Connections
12-port
12-port
8-port
8-port
4-port
4-port
0
100
Network Analyzer Basics
200
300
400
0
25

Test Set Cal

Traditional VNA Calibration
50
75
Copyright
2000
In-Fixture Measurements
Measurement problem: coaxial
calibration plane is not the same as the
in-fixture measurement plane
Measurement
plane
Calibration
plane
Fixture
ED
ES
ET
Error correction with coaxial calibration
DUT



Network Analyzer Basics
Loss
Phase shift
Mismatch
Copyright
2000
Characterizing Crystal Resonators/Filters
Ch1
Z: R
phase
40 / REF 0
1: 15.621 U
E5100A/B Network Analyzer
31.998 984 925 MHz
Min
Cor
1
START 31.995 MHz
SEG START
STOP
POINTS
STOP 32.058 MHz
POWER
IFBW
1 31.995 MHz
32.008 MHz
200
0 dBm
200Hz
> 2 32.052 MHz
32.058 MHz
200
0 dBm
200Hz
END
Example of crystal resonator
measurement
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Balanced-Device Measurements
•
ATN-4000 series (4-port test set + software)
•
measure tough singled-ended devices like couplers
measure fully-balanced or single-ended-to-balanced DUTs
characterize mode conversions (e.g. common-to-differential)
incorporates 4-port error correction for exceptional accuracy
works with 8753ES and 8720ES analyzers
more info at www.atnmicrowave.com
•
•
•
•
•
sa
Channel Partner
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Traditional Scalar Analyzer
Incident
Transmitted
DUT
Reflected
SOURCE
SIGNAL
SEPARATION
processor/display
INCIDENT (R)
REFLECTED
(A)
TRANSMITTED
(B)
RECEIVER / DETECTOR
source
PROCESSOR / DISPLAY
Example: 8757D/E

requires external detectors, couplers, bridges, splitters

good for low-cost microwave scalar applications
RF
R
A
B
RF
Detector
R
Detector
Detector
Bridge
Reflection
Network Analyzer Basics
DUT
DUT
Termination
Transmission
Copyright
2000
A
B
Directional Coupler Directivity
Coupling Factor (fwd) x Loss
Directivity =
(through arm)
Isolation (rev)
Directivity (dB) = Isolation (dB) - Coupling Factor
(dB) - Loss (dB)
50 dB
Examples:
20 dB
Test
port
50 dB
Directivity = 50 dB - 20 dB = 30 dB
30 dB
Test
port
Directivity = 50 dB - 30 dB - 10 dB = 10 dB
10 dB
60 dB
20 dB
Test
port
Directivity = 60 dB - 20 dB - 10 dB = 30 dB
10 dB
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
One Method of Measuring Coupler Directivity
1.0 (0 dB) (reference)
Coupler
35 dB (.018)
Directivity
Source
short
.018 (35 dB) (normalized)
Directivity = 35 dB - 0 dB
= 35 dB
Source
Network Analyzer Basics
load
Assume perfect
load (no
reflection)
Copyright
2000
Directional Bridge
50 W
50 W
Detector



50 W
Test Port

Network Analyzer Basics
50-ohm load at test port
balances
the bridge -- detector reads
zero
Non-50-ohm load imbalances
bridge
Measuring magnitude and
phase of imbalance gives
complex impedance
"Directivity" is difference
between maximum and
minimum balance
Copyright
2000
Incident
NA Hardware: Front
Ends, Mixers Versus
Samplers
Transmitted
DUT
Reflected
SOURCE
SIGNAL
SEPARATION
REFLECTED
(A)
INCIDENT (R)
TRANSMITTED
(B)
RECEIVER / DETECTOR
PROCESSOR / DISPLAY
Sampler-based front end
ADC / DSP
S
ADC / DSP
Mixer-based front end
Harmonic
generator
f
frequency "comb"
It is cheaper and easier to make
broadband front ends using
samplers instead of mixers
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Three Versus Four-Receiver Analyzers
Source
Source
Transfer switch
Transfer switch
R1
R
A
A
B
B
R2
Port 1
Port 2
3 receivers



more economical
TRL*, LRM* cals only
includes:
8753ES
8720ES (standard)


Network Analyzer Basics
Port 2
Port 1
4 receivers



more expensive
true TRL, LRM cals
includes:
8720ES (option 400)
8510C


Copyright
2000
Why Are Four Receivers Better Than Three?
TRL
TRL*
8720ES Option 400 adds
fourth sampler, allowing full
TRL calibration

TRL*
assumes the source and load match of a test port are equal
(port symmetry between forward and reverse measurements)
this is only a fair assumption for three-receiver network analyzers
TRL
four receivers are necessary to make the required measurements
TRL and TRL* use identical calibration standards
In noncoaxial applications, TRL achieves better source and load match
correction than TRL*
What about coaxial applications?
SOLT is usually the preferred calibration method
coaxial TRL can be more accurate than SOLT, but not commonly used









Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Challenge Quiz
1. Can filters cause distortion in communications systems?
A. Yes, due to impairment of phase and magnitude response
B. Yes, due to nonlinear components such as ferrite inductors
C. No, only active devices can cause distortion
D. No, filters only cause linear phase shifts
E. Both A and B above
2. Which statement about transmission lines is false?
A. Useful for efficient transmission of RF power
B. Requires termination in characteristic impedance for low VSWR
C. Envelope voltage of RF signal is independent of position along line
D. Used when wavelength of signal is small compared to length of line
E. Can be realized in a variety of forms such as coaxial, waveguide, microstrip
3. Which statement about narrowband detection is false?
A. Is generally the cheapest way to detect microwave signals
B. Provides much greater dynamic range than diode detection
C. Uses variable-bandwidth IF filters to set analyzer noise floor
D. Provides rejection of harmonic and spurious signals
E. Uses mixers or samplers as downconverters
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Challenge Quiz (continued)
4. Maximum dynamic range with narrowband detection is defined as:
A. Maximum receiver input power minus the stopband of the device under te
B. Maximum receiver input power minus the receiver's noise floor
C. Detector 1-dB-compression point minus the harmonic level of the source
D. Receiver damage level plus the maximum source output power
E. Maximum source output power minus the receiver's noise floor
5. With a T/R analyzer, the following error terms can be corrected:
A. Source match, load match, transmission tracking
B. Load match, reflection tracking, transmission tracking
C. Source match, reflection tracking, transmission tracking
D. Directivity, source match, load match
E. Directivity, reflection tracking, load match
6. Calibration(s) can remove which of the following types of measurement
A. Systematic and drift
B. Systematic and random
C. Random and drift
D. Repeatability and systematic
E. Repeatability and drift
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000
Challenge Quiz (continued)
7. Which statement about TRL calibration is false?
A. Is a type of two-port error correction
B. Uses easily fabricated and characterized standards
C. Most commonly used in noncoaxial environments
D. Is not available on the 8720ES family of microwave
network analyzers
E. Has a special version for three-sampler network
analyzers
8. For which component is it hardest to get accurate
transmission and reflection measurements when using
a T/R network analyzer?
A. Amplifiers because output power causes receiver
compression
B. Cables because load match cannot be corrected
C. Filter stopbands because of lack of dynamic range
D. Mixers because of lack of broadband detectors
E. Attenuators because source match cannot be corrected
9. Power sweeps are good for which measurements?
A. Gain compression
Network Analyzer Basics
B. AM to PM conversion
C. Saturated output power
Copyright
2000
Answers to Challenge Quiz
1. E
2. C
3. A
4. B
5. C
6. A
7. D
8. B
9. E
Network Analyzer Basics
Copyright
2000