Signal Path Calibration Using Vector Network Analyzer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional signal path calibration methods for radiated spurious emission measurements in 5G communication standards are hindered by high measurement uncertainty and prolonged calibration times, especially when using thermal power meters beyond 90 GHz, which are slow and insensitive.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a transmitting module, a measuring unit, and a processing unit that configures the measuring unit for predefined measurement accuracy and test time duration, optimizing signal path calibration by reducing uncertainty and calibration time through automated calibration and alert notifications, and compensating for path losses and reflections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If thermal power meters are used for calibrating signal paths above 90 GHz, then the frequency range coverage is improved, but the calibration speed and sensitivity deteriorate significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the power meter by switching from thermal power meters to vector network analyzers (VNAs) for frequency ranges above 90 GHz. The VNA operates with different measurement parameters (S-parameters, impedance matching) that enable faster and more accurate calibration while maintaining coverage in the millimeter wave frequency range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the thermal measurement mechanism with an electromagnetic field-based measurement mechanism. Instead of using thermal power meters that rely on thermal conversion and detection, the system uses VNAs that directly measure electromagnetic wave characteristics through vector network analysis, eliminating the thermal inertia and slow response associated with thermal measurement methods.
2Device complexity
If conventional power meters are used for signal path calibration, then the measurement setup is simple, but the measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary calibration process using VNA measurements to determine S-parameters and impedance matching characteristics. This intermediary measurement step provides precise calibration data that can then be used to correct subsequent RSE measurements, improving overall measurement precision without requiring complex direct calibration equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the VNA measures actual signal path characteristics (S-parameters, return loss) and uses this information to adjust and optimize the calibration. The system continuously monitors measurement quality and provides feedback to improve calibration accuracy, ensuring reliable RSE measurement results.
3Measurement precision
If extended calibration time is allocated, then the measurement accuracy is improved, but the productivity and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration actions using VNA measurements to characterize the signal path before actual RSE measurements begin. By pre-measuring S-parameters, impedance matching, and other transmission line characteristics, the system establishes accurate calibration data in advance, enabling rapid and accurate RSE measurements without requiring extended calibration time during the actual testing process.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for optimizing signal path calibration is provided. The system comprises at least one transmitting module, at least one measuring unit, connected to the transmitting module via a signal path and a processing unit. In this context, the measuring unit is adapted to perform power measurement on the signal path. In addition, the processing unit is adapted to configure the measuring unit with respect to a predefined measurement accuracy and a predefined test time duration.