Test System Using Switch Module for Reflection and Transmission Measurements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test systems for electronic devices require multiple setups and manual interaction to perform different measurements, leading to increased costs and efforts, as they need to be reconfigured for various measurements like scattering parameter, EVM, and ACLR tests.
Innovation Solution
A test system with a vector signal generator, a switch module, and a directional element that allows a single setup to perform multiple measurements by routing wideband modulated signals and analyzed signals between the device under test's input and output ports, enabling reflection and transmission measurements through different switching positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different measurement setups are used to perform scattering parameter measurements and modulation accuracy measurements, then measurement capability and versatility are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal measurement setup where a single vector signal generator and vector signal analyser can perform multiple measurement types (scattering parameter measurements, EVM measurements, ACLR measurements) by using a switch module to reconfigure the connection topology. The system becomes multi-functional through software control and switching rather than requiring separate dedicated instruments for each measurement type, thus reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system uses dynamic reconfiguration through a switch module that can change connection topologies between different measurement configurations. Instead of static dedicated setups, the system dynamically switches between reflection measurement mode, transmission measurement mode, and direct connection mode, allowing one physical setup to adapt to multiple measurement requirements and reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual interaction is used to reconfigure measurement setups for different measurements, then measurement versatility is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional efforts and costs
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system implements self-service through automated switch control based on measurement type selection. When a user selects a measurement type (S-parameter, EVM, ACLR), the system automatically configures the appropriate connection topology through the switch module without requiring manual cable reconnection. The system serves itself by automatically adapting its configuration, eliminating manual interaction while maintaining measurement versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the selected measurement type automatically triggers the appropriate switch configuration. The control system receives feedback about the desired measurement mode and automatically adjusts the connection topology accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to measurement requirements without manual intervention and improves ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the same measurement setup is used for all measurements, then ease of operation and cost are improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to reconfiguration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms a static measurement setup into a dynamic one by incorporating a switch module that can reconfigure connection topologies based on measurement type. The same physical setup (single VSG, single VSA, directional elements) becomes adaptable through dynamic switching between reflection mode, transmission mode, and direct connection mode, maintaining ease of operation while restoring measurement versatility through automated reconfiguration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces overall costs by allowing a single measurement setup to perform various tests, minimizing manual interaction and cabling complexity while maintaining multi-port vector network analyzing functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a directional element (20) configured to separate incident electromagnetic waves and reflected electromagnetic waves
Data Source
AI summary
A test system for testing a device under test having at least an input port and an output port. The test system comprising a vector signal generator, a switch, a directional element, and a vector signal analyser. The vector signal generator, depending on the respective switching position of the switch, is connected with the input port of the device under test or the output port of the device under test such that, in a first switching position of the switch, the wideband modulated signal generated by the vector signal generator is forwarded to the input port and, in a second switching position of the switch, the wideband modulated signal generated by the vector signal generator is forwarded to the output port. The switch is configured to enable the vector signal analyser to perform reflection measurements and transmission measurements depending on the respective switching position of the switch.