Spur Search Method Using Two-Step Signal Sweep
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting spurs in signals are inefficient and time-consuming due to the need for high sensitivity scans across the entire frequency range using narrow resolution bandwidths, which are required to resolve spurs near the noise floor level but result in prolonged measurement times.
Innovation Solution
A two-step approach involving a fast sweep measurement with a high resolution bandwidth to roughly identify spur locations, followed by a detailed sweep measurement with an automatically determined narrow resolution bandwidth to accurately analyze spurs, reducing the need for manual interaction and minimizing measurement time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a narrow resolution bandwidth is used to scan the whole frequency range with high sensitivity, then the measurement accuracy of spurs is improved, but the time needed for scanning is very high
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency range scanning process is divided into two segments: a first sweep measurement with high resolution bandwidth for rough identification of spur locations, and a second sweep measurement with narrow resolution bandwidth for detailed analysis. This segmentation allows the system to avoid using narrow bandwidth for the entire frequency range, thus reducing total measurement time while maintaining accuracy for identified spurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The first sweep measurement with high resolution bandwidth is performed as a preliminary action to identify potential spur locations before conducting the detailed second sweep measurement. This preliminary identification allows the system to focus subsequent detailed measurements only on relevant frequency regions, avoiding unnecessary time consumption in regions without spurs.
2Loss of time
If a two step approach is used for searching spurs, then the total time for searching is reduced, but manual configuration of detailed sweep measurement is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the narrow resolution bandwidth needed for the second sweep measurement based on results from the first sweep measurement. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual configuration of the detailed sweep measurement parameters, making the two-step approach fully automatic and eliminating the time-consuming manual setup that would otherwise offset the time savings.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the first sweep measurement results to automatically configure the parameters for the second sweep measurement. The narrow resolution bandwidth for the detailed analysis is determined based on the spur locations and characteristics identified in the preliminary sweep, creating a closed-loop configuration process that adapts to the specific signal being analyzed.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for searching a spur in a signal received is described, wherein a fast sweep measurement with a high resolution bandwidth is performed in order to detect at least one spur. Further, a detailed sweep measurement with narrow resolution bandwidth is performed in order to analyze said spur detected. Said narrow resolution bandwidth needed for said detailed sweep measurement of said spur is determined automatically. Further, a device for searching a spur in a signal received is described.