White Papers
December 15, 2014
This white paper discusses the design of power amplifiers employing Cree GaN HEMTs and NI AWR Design Environment / Microwave Office circuit design software to maximize power-added efficiency (PAE) by optimizing source and load pull at both fundamental and harmonic frequencies. The load-pull scripts within Microwave Office� are used to find the optimum trade-offs in power gain, efficiency, and stability. The article describes the basis of Class F PA and inverse Class F design F, as well as a new approach called continuous Class F, which enables greater bandwidths to be realized. Several practical design examples are given, including the inspection of voltage and current waveforms for both packaged and bare die transistors in the 10 to 25 watt power range for frequencies up to 2.5 GHz. In addition, the ways in which the Microwave Office load pull wizard can be used to investigate fundamental and harmonic impedances both at the input and output of transistors are discussed.
December 15, 2014
Innovation that's Open - Introducing OpenRFM. Meeting new government interoperability and affordability requirements in Electronic Warfare and Signals Intelligence, requires innovative approaches in advanced RF/Microwave and digital signal processing. OpenRFM is the first RF/Microwave open system approach that leverages best available commercial-item technology to deliver sophisticated, interoperable sensor processing subsystems to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum. OpenRFM is the better alternative for affordable RF subsystems for our war fighters and allies alike.
November 17, 2014
For decades, spectrum analyzers have been used to develop and characterize radar and electronic (EW) warfare systems. However, traditional swept measurements are rapidly becoming insufficient because most modern radar systems are adaptive. Learn about methods for monitoring EW scenarios, identifying unwanted events in the transmitted waveform, and accurately measuring found signals.Ã?Â
November 17, 2014
When designing printed circuit boards launches for coaxial test connectors, there are a number of aspects to consider in order to get the clearest picture of the intended device under test. Learn a relatively simple approach to modeling back-drilled vias and a rough "rule of thumb" to modeling them without electrical modeling tools.
October 21, 2014
The Signal Hound BB60C operates and is powered by connecting to a host PC through a USB 3.0 cable. Remote spectrum analyzer and PC management tasks are accomplished over an Ethernet connection through the use of a low cost Intel vPro- enabled PC, such as the Intel NUC, model DC53427HYE, paired with each BB60C. Intel's vPro technology keeps the Ethernet port powered on, even when the Core i5 processor is turned off, so that it can always receive commands.
October 20, 2014
Model 50S1G6AB is a solid-state; 50 W Class AB amplifier design that instantaneously covers 1 to 6 GHz in one unit. When used with a sweep generator, the 50S1G6AB will provide 50 watts typical of RF power in approximately half the size of a traditional Class A design at a more economical price.
September 16, 2014
This application note provides an overview of field testing radar systems and Line Replaceable Units (LRU) using high-performance FieldFox combination analyzers having multiple measurement modes including a peak power analyzer, vector network analyzer, spectrum analyzer and vector voltmeter. This application note will show several measurement examples of pulsed and secondary radar signals and also reviews the basics of monopulse radar.
September 16, 2014
Technicians and engineers use calibration factors when making measurements; but where do these calibration factors really come from?
September 16, 2014
Modern Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) architectures such as those based on Nonlinear Transmission Line (NLTL) samplers and distributed harmonic generators now offer a beneficial alternative to traditional sampling VNAs. They allow for a simplified architecture and also enable VNAs that are much more cost effective. It is shown that NLTL technology results in miniature VNA reflectometers that provide enhanced performance over broad frequency ranges, and reduced measurement complexity, providing VNA users a unique and compelling solution for their high-frequency measurement needs.
August 18, 2014
Learn how to leverage high-performance portable analyzers, open software, and PC Integration for field analysis and remote deployments.