S-Parameter Estimation Using Built-In Directional Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating scattering parameters (S-parameters) of a two-port network require a vector network analyzer (VNA), which is time-consuming for mass production of electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a directional coupler, input and output calibration kits, and a control switch is used to estimate S-parameters without a VNA by measuring forward and reverse signals with different impedances, allowing built-in circuit calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a vector network analyzer (VNA) is used to directly probe the two-port network to obtain S-parameters, then the measurement precision is improved, but the productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming device testing
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device performs self-calibration by using its own built-in circuits (directional coupler, calibration kits, control switch) to estimate and calibrate its S-parameters without requiring external VNA equipment. This self-service approach enables mass production testing while maintaining measurement accuracy through automated calibration procedures
Solution Approach 2:
A directional coupler is introduced as an intermediary component to separate and measure forward and reverse signals independently. This mediator enables the built-in circuit to accurately capture signal characteristics without requiring direct VNA probing, thus improving testing speed while maintaining measurement precision
2Measurement precision
If a VNA is used for S-parameter estimation, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to requiring external equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration functionality is merged directly into the electronic device by integrating the directional coupler, input calibration kit, output calibration kit, and control switch within the device itself. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate VNA equipment and external calibration tools, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The built-in calibration circuit performs multiple functions: it acts as both the measurement instrument and the calibration standard by using the calibration kits to generate reference signals and the directional coupler to measure device responses. This multi-functionality replaces multiple separate pieces of equipment, reducing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device and a method for estimating scattering parameters of a two-port network are provided. The electronic device includes a two-port network, a directional coupler, an input calibration kit placed in front of the two-port network, an output calibration kit placed behind the two-port network, and a control switch connected between the directional coupler and the two-port network. The directional coupler transmits a desired signal and receives a forward signal and a reverse signal from the two-port network. When the control switch is turned off, input calculation results are calculated according to the forward signal and the reverse signal by controlling the input calibration kit. When the control switch is turned on, output calculation results are calculated according to the forward signal and the reverse signal by controlling the output calibration kit. The scattering parameters are estimated according to the input calculation results and the output calculation results.