System, method, device, processor and storage medium thereof for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of millimeter wave vector network analyzer

Abstract

This invention relates to a system for realizing bidirectional RF signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer. The system includes a vector network analyzer main unit, a main unit port output channel, a rear panel output channel, and a signal switching and control unit. The vector network analyzer main unit has a built-in main RF signal source, and the RF signal output from the main RF signal source is output from the front test port of the vector network analyzer main unit. The rear panel output channel outputs the RF signal output from the main RF signal source from the rear auxiliary RF port of the vector network analyzer main unit. The system, method, apparatus, processor, and computer-readable storage medium of this invention for realizing bidirectional RF signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer improve high-frequency measurement performance. By using the spread spectrum module as a remote test head closer to the DUT, it reduces the loss and error of long cables, increases testing flexibility, and enables switchable RF signal source output paths, meeting the needs of various testing scenarios.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vector network analyzer testing, and more particularly to the field of characterizing the linear characteristics of radio frequency and microwave components. Specifically, it relates to a system, method, apparatus, processor, and computer-readable storage medium for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer. Background Technology

[0002] Vector network analyzers are key instruments for characterizing the linear characteristics (such as S-parameters) of radio frequency (RF) and microwave components. Traditional vector network analyzers typically integrate the RF signal source inside the main unit and output signals to the device under test (DUT) through test ports on the front panel. While this architecture is mature, it has limitations when dealing with complex testing scenarios.

[0003] First, when measurements beyond the host frequency range are required, an external spread spectrum module is typically needed. Traditionally, this module is connected between the vector network analyzer host and the DUT. This means the host's front-end test ports are occupied by the spread spectrum module, preventing the host from independently using its standard test ports to measure another DUT during spread spectrum testing. It also necessitates frequent cable plugging and unplugging, reducing testing efficiency and potentially affecting connector lifespan and measurement stability due to repeated connector insertion and removal.

[0004] Secondly, in the testing of some automated test systems or large DUTs (such as antenna arrays), it is desirable for the vector network analyzer host to be placed inside a rack or far away from the DUT, while the point of test signal generation (i.e., spread spectrum module or remote test head) is close to the DUT, in order to reduce the loss and phase instability of long cables at high frequencies. Traditional vector network analyzers cannot directly lead the signal source from the rear of the host to accommodate such deployments.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new internal architecture for vector network analyzers that can flexibly switch RF signal sources, support RF signal sources output from both front and rear ports, and coordinate the simultaneous operation of the host vector network analyzer and the spread spectrum module. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a system, method, apparatus, processor and computer-readable storage medium thereof that achieves bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, which meets the requirements of test flexibility, switchability and good measurement performance.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a system, method, apparatus, processor, and computer-readable storage medium for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, as follows: The system for implementing the bidirectional RF signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer is mainly characterized in that the system includes a vector network analyzer host, a host port output channel, a rear panel output channel, and a signal switching and control unit. The vector network analyzer host is built-in with a main RF signal source. The host port output channel is connected to the main RF signal source and is used to output the RF signal output by the main RF signal source from the front test port of the vector network analyzer host. The rear panel output channel is connected to the main RF signal source and is used to output the RF signal output by the main RF signal source from the rear auxiliary RF port of the vector network analyzer host. The signal switching and control unit is respectively connected to the main RF signal source, the host port output channel, and the rear panel output channel, and is used to receive control instructions and switch the output path of the main RF signal source, and selectively conduct the RF signal to the host port output channel or the rear panel output channel.

[0008] Preferably, the vector network analyzer host includes a Port1 test port, a Port2 test port, a first external spread-spectrum interface, and a second external spread-spectrum interface. The Port1 test port and the Port2 test port are the front test ports of the vector network analyzer host and are used to connect to the device under test to complete the independent host test. The first external spread-spectrum interface and the second external spread-spectrum interface are external spread-spectrum input and output interfaces supporting the vector network analyzer host and are used to connect to an external spread-spectrum module.

[0009] Preferably, the host port output channel is provided with an RF output interface, and the RF output interface is connected to the external spread-spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host and is used to output the RF signal to the RF input port of the external spread-spectrum module.

[0010] Preferably, the rear panel output channel is integrated into the first external spread-spectrum interface and the second external spread-spectrum interface. Both the first external spread-spectrum interface and the second external spread-spectrum interface include an external spread-spectrum RF output port, an external spread-spectrum local oscillator output port, a reference intermediate frequency input port, and a measurement intermediate frequency input port. The external spread-spectrum RF output port is connected to the RF input interface of the external spread-spectrum module. The external spread-spectrum local oscillator output port is connected to the external local oscillator input interface of the external spread-spectrum module. The reference intermediate frequency input port is connected to the reference intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread-spectrum module. The measurement intermediate frequency input port is connected to the measurement intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread-spectrum module.

[0011] Preferably, the signal switching and control unit includes an MCU and a switch control module. The signal output terminal of the MCU microcontroller is connected to the control terminal of the switch control module to receive control commands and drive the switch control module to perform path switching actions. The RF path terminal of the switch control module is connected in series between the main RF signal source and the host port output channel and the rear panel output channel to conduct or cut off the RF signal of the corresponding output path.

[0012] Preferably, the system further includes a control platform, which is communicatively connected to the signal switching and control unit, the vector network analyzer host, and the external spread spectrum module, respectively, for coordinating the control signal switching action, configuring the working parameters of the main radio frequency signal source, and synchronizing the working status of the spread spectrum module and the vector network analyzer host.

[0013] Preferably, the control platform supports the configuration and switching of three working modes: host standalone test mode, host front port output connected to spread spectrum module test mode, and host rear panel output connected to spread spectrum module test mode. In the host-only test mode, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals through the front test port of the host port output channel, without any external spread spectrum module connected. In the host front port output to spread spectrum module test mode, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals to the external spread spectrum module through the host port output channel, and the vector network analyzer host is connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module through the external spread spectrum interface; In the test mode where the host's rear panel output is connected to the spread spectrum module, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals to the external spread spectrum module through the rear panel output channel, and the vector network analyzer host is connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module through the external spread spectrum interface.

[0014] The method for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer is characterized by comprising the following steps: (1) Select the target working mode through the control platform. The target working mode includes host independent test mode, host front port output connected to spread spectrum module test mode, and host rear panel output connected to spread spectrum module test mode. (2) The control platform sends a switching command to the signal switching and control unit according to the selected target working mode. The signal switching and control unit drives the corresponding radio frequency path to be turned on, and switches the output path of the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel or the rear panel output channel that matches the target working mode. (3) The control platform configures the working parameters of the main radio frequency signal source, establishes communication with the external spread spectrum module, and completes the synchronization of the working status of the spread spectrum module and the vector network analyzer host. (4) The vector network analyzer host executes the corresponding test task according to the selected working mode.

[0015] Preferably, if the control platform selects the host stand-alone test mode, the signal switching and control unit in step (2) will turn on the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host will connect to the device under test through the Port1 test port and the Port2 test port to complete the independent test within the host operating frequency band.

[0016] Preferably, if the control platform selects the host front port output to spread spectrum module test mode, in step (2), the signal switching and control unit will turn on the main RF signal source to the host port output channel, the RF output interface of the host port output channel will be connected to the RF input port of the external spread spectrum module, the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host will be connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host will complete the high frequency band test through the external spread spectrum module.

[0017] Preferably, if the control platform selects the test mode of the host rear panel output connected to the spread spectrum module, in step (2), the signal switching and control unit will turn on the main radio frequency signal source to the rear panel output channel, the external spread spectrum radio frequency output port of the rear panel output channel will be connected to the radio frequency input port of the external spread spectrum module, the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host will be connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host and the external spread spectrum module will synchronously perform parallel testing of the two devices under test.

[0018] The main feature of this device for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of millimeter-wave vector network analyzer is that the device includes: A processor is configured to execute computer-executable instructions; The memory stores one or more computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, implement the steps of the method described above for implementing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer.

[0019] The processor that realizes the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of the millimeter-wave vector network analyzer is characterized in that the processor is configured to execute computer-executable instructions, and when the computer-executable instructions are executed by the processor, the various steps of the above-described method for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of the millimeter-wave vector network analyzer are implemented.

[0020] The computer-readable storage medium is characterized in that it stores a computer program that can be executed by a processor to implement the various steps of the method described above for implementing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer.

[0021] The system, method, apparatus, processor, and computer-readable storage medium of this invention for realizing bidirectional RF signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer allow the host vector network analyzer and spread spectrum module to operate simultaneously or switch quickly between different test configurations, avoiding frequent physical connection changes. This is particularly suitable for automated test systems and R&D verification. This invention improves high-frequency measurement performance by placing the spread spectrum module closer to the DUT as a remote test head, reducing losses and phase errors introduced by long cables, especially beneficial for high-frequency and millimeter-wave measurements. This invention enhances test flexibility by enabling switchable RF signal source output paths, meeting the needs of various test scenarios. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall architecture of the system for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of the millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the signal switching and control unit of the system for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of the millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the MCU control for the method of realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a test diagram illustrating the host-only test mode of the system for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of the millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to the present invention.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a test diagram illustrating the test mode of the host front port output of the system for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of the millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to the present invention, which is connected to the spread spectrum module.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a test diagram of the test mode of the system for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of the millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, which is connected to the spread spectrum module on the rear panel of the host. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To more clearly describe the technical content of the present invention, the following description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments.

[0030] The system for realizing the bidirectional RF signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to the present invention includes a vector network analyzer host, a host port output channel, a rear panel output channel, and a signal switching and control unit. The vector network analyzer host is internally provided with a main RF signal source. The host port output channel is connected to the main RF signal source and is used to output the RF signal output by the main RF signal source from the front test port of the vector network analyzer host. The rear panel output channel is connected to the main RF signal source and is used to output the RF signal output by the main RF signal source from the rear auxiliary RF port of the vector network analyzer host. The signal switching and control unit is respectively connected to the main RF signal source, the host port output channel, and the rear panel output channel, and is used to receive a control instruction and switch the output path of the main RF signal source, and selectively conduct the RF signal to the host port output channel or the rear panel output channel.

[0031] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vector network analyzer host includes a Port1 test port, a Port2 test port, a first external spread-spectrum interface, and a second external spread-spectrum interface. The Port1 test port and the Port2 test port are the front test ports of the vector network analyzer host and are used to connect to a device under test to complete the independent test of the host. The first external spread-spectrum interface and the second external spread-spectrum interface are external spread-spectrum input / output interfaces supporting the vector network analyzer host and are used to connect to an external spread-spectrum module.

[0032] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the host port output channel is provided with an RF output interface, and the RF output interface is connected to the external spread-spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host and is used to output an RF signal to the RF input port of the external spread-spectrum module.

[0033] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the rear panel output channel is integrated into the first external spread-spectrum interface and the second external spread-spectrum interface. The first external spread-spectrum interface and the second external spread-spectrum interface both include an external spread-spectrum RF output port, an external spread-spectrum local oscillator output port, a reference intermediate frequency input port, and a measurement intermediate frequency input port. The external spread-spectrum RF output port is connected to the RF input interface of the external spread-spectrum module. The external spread-spectrum local oscillator output port is connected to the external local oscillator input interface of the external spread-spectrum module. The reference intermediate frequency input port is connected to the reference intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread-spectrum module. The measurement intermediate frequency input port is connected to the measurement intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread-spectrum module.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the signal switching and control unit includes an MCU and a switch control module. The signal output terminal of the MCU microcontroller is connected to the control terminal of the switch control module, and is used to receive control commands and drive the switch control module to perform path switching actions. The RF path terminal of the switch control module is connected in series between the main RF signal source and the host port output channel and the rear panel output channel, respectively, and is used to turn on or off the RF signal of the corresponding output path.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a control platform, which is communicatively connected to the signal switching and control unit, the vector network analyzer host, and the external spread spectrum module, respectively, for coordinating the control signal switching action, configuring the working parameters of the main radio frequency signal source, and synchronizing the working status of the spread spectrum module and the vector network analyzer host.

[0036] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the control platform supports the configuration and switching of three working modes, namely, host standalone test mode, host front port output connected to spread spectrum module test mode, and host rear panel output connected to spread spectrum module test mode. In the host-only test mode, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals through the front test port of the host port output channel, without any external spread spectrum module connected. In the host front port output to spread spectrum module test mode, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals to the external spread spectrum module through the host port output channel, and the vector network analyzer host is connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module through the external spread spectrum interface; In the test mode where the host's rear panel output is connected to the spread spectrum module, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals to the external spread spectrum module through the rear panel output channel, and the vector network analyzer host is connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module through the external spread spectrum interface.

[0037] The method of the present invention for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer using the above-described system includes the following steps: (1) Select the target working mode through the control platform. The target working mode includes host independent test mode, host front port output connected to spread spectrum module test mode, and host rear panel output connected to spread spectrum module test mode. (2) The control platform sends a switching command to the signal switching and control unit according to the selected target working mode. The signal switching and control unit drives the corresponding radio frequency path to be turned on, and switches the output path of the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel or the rear panel output channel that matches the target working mode. (3) The control platform configures the working parameters of the main radio frequency signal source, establishes communication with the external spread spectrum module, and completes the synchronization of the working status of the spread spectrum module and the vector network analyzer host. (4) The vector network analyzer host executes the corresponding test task according to the selected working mode.

[0038] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, if the control platform selects the host standby test mode, the signal switching and control unit in step (2) will turn on the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host will connect to the device under test through the Port1 test port and the Port2 test port to complete the standby test within the host operating frequency band.

[0039] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, if the control platform selects the host front port output to spread spectrum module test mode, in step (2), the signal switching and control unit will connect the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel, the radio frequency output interface of the host port output channel will be connected to the radio frequency input port of the external spread spectrum module, the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host will be connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host will complete the high frequency band test through the external spread spectrum module.

[0040] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, if the control platform selects the test mode of the host rear panel output connected to the spread spectrum module, in step (2), the signal switching and control unit will turn on the main radio frequency signal source to the rear panel output channel, the external spread spectrum radio frequency output port of the rear panel output channel will be connected to the radio frequency input port of the external spread spectrum module, the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host will be connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host and the external spread spectrum module will synchronously perform parallel testing of the two devices under test.

[0041] The apparatus of the present invention for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, wherein the apparatus includes: A processor is configured to execute computer-executable instructions; The memory stores one or more computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, implement the steps of the method described above for implementing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer.

[0042] The processor of the present invention realizes the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, wherein the processor is configured to execute computer-executable instructions, and when the computer-executable instructions are executed by the processor, the various steps of the above-described method for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer are implemented.

[0043] The computer-readable storage medium of the present invention stores a computer program thereon, which can be executed by a processor to implement the various steps of the method described above for implementing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer.

[0044] In specific embodiments of the present invention, the purpose is to solve the limitation that the radio frequency signal source of the traditional vector network analyzer can only output from the front port, and cannot support the operation of the back-end spread spectrum module while maintaining normal host testing.

[0045] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a bidirectional radio frequency signal source output device and method for a vector network analyzer.

[0046] The bidirectional RF signal source output device of the vector network analyzer includes the vector network analyzer main unit, main unit port output channels, rear panel output channels, signal switching and control unit, and control platform. The vector network analyzer main unit is the core of the entire system and mainly consists of a main RF signal source; the main unit port output channels are connected to the main RF signal source and are used to output RF signals from the main unit's test port; the rear panel output channels are connected to the main RF signal source and are used to output RF signals from the auxiliary RF port on the rear panel of the main unit; the signal switching and control unit controls the switching of the RF signal source, selectively outputting the RF signal from either the front port output channel or the rear port output channel; the control platform coordinates and controls signal switching, RF signal source parameter settings, and the operating status of the spread spectrum module.

[0047] The vector network analyzer host mainly includes a Port1 test port, a Port2 test port, a first external spread spectrum interface, and a second external spread spectrum interface; wherein the Port1 test port is the first port output of the vector network analyzer host; the Port2 test port is the second port output of the vector network analyzer host; wherein the first external spread spectrum interface is the first port external spread spectrum input / output of the vector network analyzer host; and wherein the second external spread spectrum interface is the second port external spread spectrum input / output of the vector network analyzer host.

[0048] The host port output channel mainly includes RF; RF is the radio frequency input port of the external spread spectrum module, which is connected to the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host.

[0049] The rear panel output channel mainly includes a first external spread spectrum interface and a second external spread spectrum interface; the external spread spectrum interface includes an external spread spectrum RF output port, which is connected to the RF input interface of the external spread spectrum module; the external spread spectrum interface includes an external spread spectrum local oscillator output port, which is connected to the external local oscillator input interface of the external spread spectrum module; the external spread spectrum reference intermediate frequency input port, which is connected to the reference intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread spectrum module; and the external spread spectrum measurement intermediate frequency input port, which is connected to the measurement intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread spectrum module.

[0050] The signal switching and control unit mainly includes an MCU and a switch control module; the MCU controls the switch control module so that it can receive signal control and selectively output the radio frequency signal source from the host port or the rear panel.

[0051] The control platform allows users to set the operating parameters of the RF signal source, control the state of the signal switching unit, and communicate with the spread spectrum module via the rear panel interface to synchronize its operation with the host. This allows users to choose to perform high-frequency testing using the host port, the spread spectrum module connected to the host port, or the spread spectrum module connected to the rear panel port, thus completing different testing tasks.

[0052] The bidirectional RF signal source output methods of vector network analyzers include: The tests included standalone VNet testing on the host computer, host VNet port output source + external spread spectrum testing, and host VNet rear panel output source + external spread spectrum testing. Specific tests are as follows: Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figure 5.

[0053] The host vector network is tested separately. At this time, the output source of the host port is the host's operating frequency band, and no external spread spectrum is connected before or after it. The host's vector network (VNet) port output source is connected to an external spread spectrum module. The host's external spread spectrum output source is then connected to the RF source input port of the external spread spectrum module, and the host's VNet external spread spectrum interface is connected to the external spread spectrum input / output. Specific testing is as follows: Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figure 6; The host's vector network interface (VNA) rear panel output source is connected to the external spread spectrum module's RF source input port. The host's VNA external spread spectrum interface is connected to the external spread spectrum input / output. Specific testing is as follows: Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0054] Its specific working process is as follows: 1. Perform tests on the vector network analyzer host, such as... Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figure 5, connect the Port1 and Port2 test ports of the vector network analyzer host to both ends of the device under test for testing; 2. The vector network analyzer's main port outputs RF to the spread spectrum module, such as... Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figure 6, this can be achieved through port RF output. The specific workflow is as follows: Figure 1 and 2 ; 3. The vector network analyzer's rear panel outputs RF signals to the spread spectrum module, such as... Figure 3 , 4As shown in Figure 7, the RF output on the rear panel can be used to measure two devices under test simultaneously using the vector network analyzer host and the external spread spectrum module.

[0055] This invention includes a signal switching and control unit, which enables controllable switching of the RF signal source output path between the test ports (Port1 / Port2) on the front panel of the vector network analyzer host and the dedicated auxiliary ports on the rear panel.

[0056] This invention, through the combination of hardware and software, allows users to freely switch the host vector network radio frequency source output port, enabling them to select different radio frequency source output ports according to different scenario requirements.

[0057] This invention combines hardware and software to enable the spread spectrum module to selectively output radio frequency source signals. By integrating control signal switching, signal source parameter setting, and spread spectrum module coordination through a software platform, this invention achieves flexible selection and seamless management of three working modes.

[0058] For the specific implementation scheme of this embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0059] It is understood that the same or similar parts in the above embodiments can be referred to each other, and the contents not described in detail in some embodiments can be referred to the same or similar contents in other embodiments.

[0060] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Furthermore, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means at least two.

[0061] Any process or method description in the flowchart or otherwise herein can be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing a particular logical function or process, and the scope of the preferred embodiments of the invention includes additional implementations in which functions may be performed not in the order shown or discussed, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order depending on the functions involved, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which embodiments of the invention pertain.

[0062] It should be understood that various parts of the present invention can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the above embodiments, multiple steps or methods can be implemented in software or firmware stored in memory and executed by a suitable instruction execution device. For example, if implemented in hardware, as in another embodiment, it can be implemented using any one or a combination of the following techniques known in the art: discrete logic circuits having logic gates for implementing logical functions on data signals, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having suitable combinational logic gates, programmable gate arrays (PGAs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0063] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps of the methods in the above embodiments can be implemented by a program instructing related hardware. The corresponding program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. When the program is executed, it includes one or a combination of the steps of the method embodiments.

[0064] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of the present invention can be integrated into a processing module, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into a module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. If the integrated module is implemented as a software functional module and sold or used as an independent product, it can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0065] The storage media mentioned above can be read-only memory, disk, or optical disk, etc.

[0066] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0067] The system, method, apparatus, processor, and computer-readable storage medium of this invention for realizing bidirectional RF signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer allow the host vector network analyzer and spread spectrum module to operate simultaneously or switch quickly between different test configurations, avoiding frequent physical connection changes. This is particularly suitable for automated test systems and R&D verification. This invention improves high-frequency measurement performance by placing the spread spectrum module closer to the DUT as a remote test head, reducing losses and phase errors introduced by long cables, especially beneficial for high-frequency and millimeter-wave measurements. This invention enhances test flexibility by enabling switchable RF signal source output paths, meeting the needs of various test scenarios.

[0068] In this specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A system for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, characterized in that, The described system includes a vector network analyzer host, a host port output channel, a rear panel output channel, and a signal switching and control unit. The vector network analyzer host is built-in with a main RF signal source. The host port output channel is connected to the main RF signal source and is used to output the RF signal output by the main RF signal source from the front test port of the vector network analyzer host. The rear panel output channel is connected to the main RF signal source and is used to output the RF signal output by the main RF signal source from the rear auxiliary RF port of the vector network analyzer host. The signal switching and control unit is respectively connected to the main RF signal source, the host port output channel, and the rear panel output channel, and is used to receive control instructions and switch the output path of the main RF signal source, and selectively conduct the RF signal to the host port output channel or the rear panel output channel.

2. The system for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The described vector network analyzer host includes a Port1 test port, a Port2 test port, a first external spread spectrum interface, and a second external spread spectrum interface. The Port1 test port and the Port2 test port are the front test ports of the vector network analyzer host and are used to connect to the DUT to complete the independent host test. The first external spread spectrum interface and the second external spread spectrum interface are external spread spectrum input and output interfaces supporting the vector network analyzer host and are used to connect to an external spread spectrum module.

3. The system for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The host port output channel is provided with a RF output interface, and the RF output interface is connected to the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host and is used to output the RF signal to the RF input port of the external spread spectrum module.

4. The system for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rear panel output channel is integrated into the first external spread spectrum interface and the second external spread spectrum interface. Both the first external spread spectrum interface and the second external spread spectrum interface include an external spread spectrum RF output port, an external spread spectrum local oscillator output port, a reference intermediate frequency input port, and a measurement intermediate frequency input port. The external spread spectrum RF output port is connected to the RF input interface of the external spread spectrum module. The external spread spectrum local oscillator output port is connected to the external local oscillator input interface of the external spread spectrum module. The reference intermediate frequency input port is connected to the reference intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread spectrum module. The measurement intermediate frequency input port is connected to the measurement intermediate frequency output interface of the external spread spectrum module.

5. The system for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The described signal switching and control unit includes an MCU and a switch control module. The signal output end of the MCU micro-control unit is connected to the control end of the switch control module and is used to receive control instructions and drive the switch control module to perform a path switching action. The RF path ends of the switch control module are respectively connected in series between the main RF signal source and the host port output channel and the rear panel output channel and are used to conduct or cut off the RF signal of the corresponding output path.

6. The system for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The described system further includes a control platform. The control platform is respectively communicatively connected to the signal switching and control unit, the vector network analyzer host, and the external spread spectrum module, and is used to coordinate and control the signal switching action, configure the working parameters of the main RF signal source, and synchronize the working states of the spread spectrum module and the vector network analyzer host.

7. The system for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 6, characterized in that, The control platform supports the configuration and switching of three working modes: host standalone test mode, host front port output connected to spread spectrum module test mode, and host rear panel output connected to spread spectrum module test mode. In the host-only test mode, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals through the front test port of the host port output channel, without any external spread spectrum module connected. In the host front port output to spread spectrum module test mode, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals to the external spread spectrum module through the host port output channel, and the vector network analyzer host is connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module through the external spread spectrum interface; In the test mode where the host's rear panel output is connected to the spread spectrum module, the main RF signal source outputs RF signals to the external spread spectrum module through the rear panel output channel, and the vector network analyzer host is connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module through the external spread spectrum interface.

8. A method for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer based on the system described in claim 1, characterized in that, The method includes the following steps: (1) Select the target working mode through the control platform. The target working mode includes host independent test mode, host front port output connected to spread spectrum module test mode, and host rear panel output connected to spread spectrum module test mode. (2) The control platform sends a switching command to the signal switching and control unit according to the selected target working mode. The signal switching and control unit drives the corresponding radio frequency path to be turned on, and switches the output path of the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel or the rear panel output channel that matches the target working mode. (3) The control platform configures the working parameters of the main radio frequency signal source, establishes communication with the external spread spectrum module, and completes the synchronization of the working status of the spread spectrum module and the vector network analyzer host. (4) The vector network analyzer host executes the corresponding test task according to the selected working mode.

9. The method for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, If the control platform selects the host standalone test mode, in step (2), the signal switching and control unit will turn on the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel. In step (4), the vector network analyzer host connects to the device under test through the Port1 test port and the Port2 test port to complete the standalone test within the host operating frequency band.

10. The method for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, If the control platform selects the host front port output to spread spectrum module test mode, in step (2), the signal switching and control unit will conduct the main radio frequency signal source to the host port output channel, the radio frequency output interface of the host port output channel will be connected to the radio frequency input port of the external spread spectrum module, the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host will be connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host will complete the high frequency band test through the external spread spectrum module.

11. The method for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer according to claim 8, characterized in that, If the control platform selects the test mode of connecting the rear panel output of the host to the spread spectrum module, in step (2), the signal switching and control unit will turn on the main radio frequency signal source to the rear panel output channel, the external spread spectrum radio frequency output port of the rear panel output channel will be connected to the radio frequency input port of the external spread spectrum module, the external spread spectrum interface of the vector network analyzer host will be connected to the input and output terminals of the spread spectrum module, and in step (4), the vector network analyzer host and the external spread spectrum module will synchronously perform parallel testing of the two devices under test.

12. A device for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, characterized in that, The device includes: A processor is configured to execute computer-executable instructions; The memory stores one or more computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, implement the steps of the method for implementing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer as described in any one of claims 8 to 11.

13. A processor for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer, characterized in that, The processor is configured to execute computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, implement the steps of the method for realizing bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer as described in any one of claims 8 to 11.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program that can be executed by a processor to implement the steps of the method for realizing the bidirectional radio frequency signal source output of a millimeter-wave vector network analyzer as described in any one of claims 8 to 11.

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