Tone-Spur Frequency Mapping for RF Spectrum Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to provide a clear and versatile analysis of the relationship between tone frequencies and spurious frequencies in devices generating radio frequency signals, making it difficult to identify and eliminate unwanted frequency components.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that operate a device under test to output multiple signals at predetermined tone frequencies, measure their spectra, identify spurious frequencies, and generate a representation of these frequencies versus the corresponding tone frequencies, using a controller, measurement device, and processor to facilitate easy identification of relationships.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a device generates radio frequency signals using DAC and mixing processes, then the desired tone frequency signal is produced, but spurious frequency components are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency analysis by measuring multiple individual tone frequencies separately and identifying spurious frequencies for each tone frequency independently. This segmentation allows clear identification of which spurious frequencies are related to which tone frequencies, resolving the contradiction by enabling precise measurement while maintaining awareness of harmful spurious components through systematic separation of measurement steps.
2Loss of information
If multiple tone frequencies are measured to identify spurious frequencies, then the relationship between tone and spurious frequencies can be identified, but the analysis becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the measurement sequence of multiple tone frequencies and pre-identifying the frequency relationships before conducting the full analysis. The measurement device is configured to systematically measure each tone frequency and its associated spurious frequencies in a predetermined order, which streamlines the analysis process and reduces the time required while ensuring no relationship information is lost.
3Measurement precision
If the spectrum of each signal is measured individually, then spurious frequencies can be identified accurately, but the overall analysis process becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the individual spectrum measurements of multiple tone frequencies into a unified analysis process. The measurement device combines the results from measuring each tone frequency and its associated spurious frequencies, creating an integrated view of all frequency relationships. This merging maintains accurate identification of spurious frequencies while simplifying the overall measurement process by treating it as a coordinated system rather than separate cumbersome steps.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved analysis and determination of a relationship between a tone frequency and spurious frequencies is provided. A device under test is operated to generate signals based on multiple different tone frequencies. For each tone frequency a spectrum of the generated signal is measured and spurious frequencies in the generated signal are identified. Based on the measured spectrums a representation of the spurious frequencies versus the related tone frequencies is generated. Trajectories may be inserted into the representation for indicating relationships between the tone frequencies and the spurious frequencies. This representation provides a useful basis for a fast and reliable identification of relationships between spurious frequencies and tone frequencies.