Simultaneous S-Parameter Measurement System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current vector network analyzers face delays in measurement update speed due to the need for sequential measurement of forward and reverse scattering parameters, which can be costly and inefficient, especially when measuring across multiple ports and harmonics.
Innovation Solution
A system that simultaneously generates synchronized signals with frequency offsets to measure both forward and reverse scattering parameters simultaneously, eliminating the need for stimulus switching and allowing for parallel processing of reflected, transmitted, and incident signals to calculate scattering parameters across multiple ports and harmonics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential measurement of forward and reverse scattering parameters is used, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but measurement update speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using time-division multiplexing where signal sources alternately generate forward and reverse test signals at different time intervals. The signal processor sequentially processes forward scattering parameters (S11, S21) and reverse scattering parameters (S22, S12) in periodic cycles, enabling simultaneous measurement capability while maintaining measurement accuracy through controlled sequential processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-calibrating the measurement system with known standards before actual measurements. Calibration data is stored and applied beforehand to compensate for system errors, allowing the simultaneous measurement process to maintain accuracy without requiring sequential verification of each parameter during the actual measurement phase.
2Adaptability or versatility
If stimulus switching is used to measure forward and reverse parameters, then measurement capability is achieved, but hardware complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single measurement system that can perform both forward and reverse scattering parameter measurements through software-controlled signal processing rather than requiring separate dedicated hardware paths. The signal processor is configured to handle multiple measurement modes using the same physical hardware, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements copying by using virtual signal paths created through digital signal processing instead of physical stimulus switching hardware. The system creates virtual representations of forward and reverse measurement paths through software, allowing simultaneous measurement capability without duplicating physical measurement hardware for each direction.
3Reliability
If stimulus switching is used for sequential measurement, then parameter isolation is achieved, but switch losses are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical stimulus switching system with a digital signal processing approach. Instead of using physical switches to isolate and direct test signals, the system uses software-controlled signal generation and processing to create isolated measurement paths virtually. This substitution eliminates switch-related energy losses while maintaining parameter isolation through digital signal separation and processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A system adapted to measure electrical performance of a device under test (DUT) having two or more ports includes a plurality of signal sources synchronized and configured to generated signals simultaneously, a plurality of first signal paths to obtain transmitted and reflected signals from the DUT, a plurality of second signal paths to obtain incident signals from the signal sources, and a receiver for receiving the reflected, transmitted and incident signals obtained at the first signal paths and the second signal paths. The receiver is adapted to separate the reflected and the transmitted signals obtained from each of the first signal paths. The signal sources are configured to each generate a signal having a frequency offset from each of the others of the signal sources by a known frequency delta.