RF Power Detector Calibration Using Nominal Error Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
The factory calibration of radio frequency (RF) devices with non-linear power detectors is slow and requires numerous measurements, leading to increased production time and equipment investment.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for quickly calibrating non-linear power detectors by using measurements of output levels and nominal data points to determine a power detector error function, which is then used to generate calibrated data sets for storing in the RF device, allowing for efficient calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional factory calibration methods are used for RF devices with non-linear power detectors, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but production time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-characterizing the nominal non-linear power detector response curve before actual calibration. The system stores nominal data points representing the expected non-linear response, and uses these pre-prepared reference data to guide the calibration process, eliminating the need to perform extensive measurements during factory calibration while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a simplified model of the non-linear power detector response through nominal data points. Instead of performing complete characterization measurements on each device, the system copies the expected response behavior from nominal data and uses error functions to adjust based on minimal actual measurements, dramatically reducing calibration time while preserving measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If traditional factory calibration methods are used for RF devices with non-linear power detectors, then calibration accuracy is achieved, but equipment investment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex non-linear power detector characterization from the factory calibration process. By separating the nominal response characterization (performed once during device design) from the actual factory calibration, the system eliminates the need for complex measurement equipment during manufacturing. Only simple power level measurements are required at the factory, while the complex non-linear response data is taken out and stored as nominal data.
3Measurement precision
If numerous measurements are performed to characterize non-linear power detector response, then detector response accuracy is improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by performing only the necessary measurements during factory calibration rather than complete characterization. The system measures power levels at a few discrete points and uses error functions to derive the complete detector response, performing just enough measurement action to achieve calibration accuracy without the excessive time required for full non-linear response characterization.
Data Source
AI summary
The exemplary embodiments include methods, computer readable media, and devices for calibrating a non-linear power detector of a radio frequency device based upon measurements of the non-linear power detector output and the associated power amplifier output level, and a set of data points that characterize a nominal non-linear power detector. The set of data points that characterize the nominal non-linear power detector is stored in a calibration system memory as nominal power detector output data. The measured non-linear power detector outputs, power amplifier output levels, and the nominal power detector output data is used to determine a power detector error function that characterizes the difference between the response of the non-linear power detector and the nominal non-linear power detector. The power detector error function and the nominal power detector output data are used to develop a calibrated power detector output data set that is stored in the non-linear power detector.