Split Signal Pulse Generator Phase Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pulse generators have poor phase response, varying output levels, high manufacturing costs, and limited pulse-repetition frequency (PRF) ranges, making them unsuitable for modern electronic applications that require lower or higher PRF rates and higher signal-to-noise ratios.
Innovation Solution
A split signal pulse generator (SSPG) comprising a signal splitter, unequal time delay signal lines, and a difference amplifier, optionally with a DC offset and input amplifier or divider, to produce unidirectional pulses with improved phase noise and jitter performance, allowing for a broader range of input signals, including those from conventional microwave sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If step-recovery diodes and non-linear transmission lines are used for pulse generation, then sharp and fast rise times are achieved, but phase response deteriorates and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pulse generation function is divided into separate modules: a pulse generator using SRD/NLTL for sharp edges, and a phase correction network with adjustable delay lines and phase shifters to independently correct phase response. This segmentation allows each module to optimize for its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
A phase correction network acts as an intermediary between the pulse generator and output, using adjustable delay lines and phase shifters to compensate for phase distortion introduced by the SRD/NLTL-based pulse generation, thereby improving overall phase response while maintaining sharp rise times.
2Speed
If step-recovery diodes and non-linear transmission lines are used, then fast rise times are achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular components (pulse generator, phase correction network, adjustable delay lines) that can be independently designed, tested, and manufactured using standard surface-mount technology, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses adjustable delay lines and phase shifters with continuously variable parameters that allow optimization of phase response without changing the fundamental SRD/NLTL-based pulse generation architecture, enabling flexible adjustment without increasing manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If logic gates and logic delay elements are used for pulse generation, then circuit integration is improved, but signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates due to reduced voltage swings
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges logic-based pulse generation (for integration benefits) with analog amplification stages that restore voltage swings and improve signal-to-noise ratio. The logic gates generate the basic pulse pattern while subsequent analog circuits enhance the signal quality without sacrificing integration advantages.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional pulse generators are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but pulse-repetition frequency range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates adjustable delay lines and programmable phase shifters that allow dynamic adjustment of pulse repetition frequency across a wide range. This dynamic capability enables the same hardware architecture to adapt to different PRF requirements without requiring multiple dedicated circuits for each frequency range.
Solution Approach 2:
The pulse generator is designed with universal components (adjustable delay lines, phase correction networks) that can operate across multiple PRF ranges from low to high frequencies, allowing a single device to perform multiple frequency generation functions that would otherwise require separate specialized circuits.
Data Source
AI summary
A split signal pulse generator (“SSPG”) that generates a difference signal from two split signals from a splitter module, where one of the split signals may be time delayed by a delay module, where the delay module may be a transmission line having a time delay or an adjustable delay line. The SSPG may include an input amplifier configured to shape an input signal received by the splitter module. A method of generating a difference signal is also provided.