Measurement System Using Power Sensor Trigger for High-Frequency Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current measurement systems for totally radiated power (TRP) tests require long measurement times, typically 10 hours, and are not applicable for signals with frequencies higher than 20 GHz, such as 5G NR FR2 signals, due to limitations in sensitivity and measurement speed.
Innovation Solution
A measurement system comprising a spectrum analyzer, power sensor, and anechoic space, where the power sensor triggers the spectrum analyzer to measure signals below its threshold power level, allowing for fast and accurate measurements of high-frequency, large bandwidth signals up to 43 GHz, using a power divider and additional horn antenna to enhance sensitivity and coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measurement systems are used to measure signals over a three-dimensional sphere, then measurement precision is maintained, but measurement time increases to approximately 10 hours
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical measurement system that requires physical movement and stopping at each spatial point with a signal processing approach. The continuous signal received by the measurement antenna is processed using digital signal processing techniques to extract power information at multiple spatial frequencies, eliminating the need for mechanical positioning and demodulation at each point.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of measuring every single spatial point on the three-dimensional sphere, the system uses a reduced set of measurement points or spatial sampling approach. By measuring at fewer points and using spatial Fourier transform techniques, the system can reconstruct the complete spatial power distribution, performing partial measurement that yields complete information.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional spectrum analyzers are used to measure high-frequency signals above 20 GHz, then frequency range is extended, but sensitivity decreases below certain power levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power sensor as an intermediary device between the measurement antenna and the spectrum analyzer. The power sensor detects the presence and power level of the signal and generates a trigger signal that initiates the spectrum analyzer measurement. This intermediary enables the system to measure signals with power levels below the spectrum analyzer's direct detection threshold.
Solution Approach 2:
The power sensor performs preliminary detection of the signal before the spectrum analyzer begins measurement. By detecting the signal presence and characteristics in advance, the system can prepare the measurement parameters and trigger the spectrum analyzer at the optimal moment, ensuring accurate capture of weak high-frequency signals.
3Measurement precision
If signals are measured by stopping and demodulating at every spatial measurement point, then measurement accuracy is ensured, but productivity decreases due to long measurement duration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of stopping and demodulating at each spatial point with continuous signal acquisition and digital processing. The measurement antenna continuously receives signals while a computer or processor performs spatial Fourier transforms on the recorded data, eliminating mechanical interruptions and enabling parallel processing of spatial information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous signal reception and processing throughout the measurement process. Instead of interrupting the measurement at each spatial point for demodulation, the signal acquisition continues uninterrupted while digital processing extracts power information from the continuous signal stream, maximizing the productive use of measurement time.
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement system comprising an anechoic space, a measurement antenna, a device under test, a spectrum analyzer, and a power sensor. The device under test transmits a signal. The measurement antenna measures the signal transmitted by the device under test. The signal measured by the measurement antenna is forwarded at least partly to the power sensor. The power sensor triggers the spectrum analyzer to perform a measurement. Further, a method of measuring a signal is described.