Time-Variant Stopband Test Signal for Swept Error Power Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring signal quality in electronic systems, such as EVM and NPR, are limited by the need for expensive equipment, synchronization requirements, and the inability to accurately measure frequency-dependent errors across wide bandwidths, especially in scenarios where dedicated receivers are not available.
Innovation Solution
A time-variant stopband test signal is generated using a chirp modulation and demodulation process, allowing for frequency-dependent error measurements with standard lab gear, such as signal generators and swept-tuned spectrum analyzers, which computes a swept error power ratio (SWEEPR) without the need for expensive receivers or complex synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If standard NPR measurement with fixed stopband is used, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but measurement speed becomes slow due to need for multiple excitation signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static, fixed stopband of traditional NPR measurement into a dynamic, time-variant stopband that sweeps across the frequency spectrum. The stopband center frequency is modulated using a chirp signal, allowing a single excitation signal to enable measurement across the entire bandwidth, thereby increasing measurement speed without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of stopband center frequency from fixed to time-variant by applying chirp modulation. This parameter transformation allows the measurement system to observe errors across different frequency points using a single excitation signal, resolving the contradiction between measurement speed and complexity
2Measurement precision
If EVM measurement is used, then signal quality measurement is achieved, but equipment cost increases due to need for expensive dedicated receivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the EVM measurement capability by using a time-variant stopband approach that can be implemented with standard NPR measurement equipment. Instead of requiring expensive dedicated EVM receivers, the system copies the essential measurement function using available equipment, thereby reducing equipment cost while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes standard NPR measurement equipment multi-functional by enabling it to perform frequency-dependent error measurements across the entire bandwidth through chirp modulation. This universal approach allows the same equipment to achieve what previously required dedicated expensive receivers, reducing equipment cost
3Measurement precision
If multiple excitation signals are used for frequency-dependent error measurement, then measurement accuracy across bandwidth is improved, but measurement time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies continuity by using a continuous chirp-modulated stopband that sweeps across the entire frequency bandwidth during a single measurement interval. This continuous action allows frequency-dependent errors to be observed across all frequency points simultaneously, maintaining measurement accuracy while eliminating the time loss associated with sequential measurements using multiple excitation signals
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 approach enables quick and accurate measurement of frequency-dependent errors using standard equipment, reducing the need for multiple excitation signals and improving measurement speed and accuracy compared to traditional methods, while being adaptable to new standards and higher bandwidths.
Implementation Method 1
A time-variant stopband test signal is generated using a chirp modulation and demodulation process
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and circuitries are provided to measure a swept error power ratio (SWEEPR) of a device under test. A method includes generating a time-variant stopband test signal having a time-variant stopband and determining an error of the device under test based on an output signal generated by the device under test in response to the time-variant stopband test signal.