Vector Channel Analyzer Without Reference Sync
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) require a connected reference for channel analysis, limiting their usefulness in situations where simultaneous access to both the injected and received signals is not easily available, such as in long-distance networks.
Innovation Solution
The Vector Channel Analyzer (VCA) measures signal transmission characteristics by analyzing the signal received at the output of a channel and comparing it to the signal injected into the channel input, without requiring a connected reference. This is achieved using a specially constructed stimulus source and robust precision alignment techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a connected reference is used for channel analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to the requirement of simultaneous access to both injected and received signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a digitally stored copy of the transmitted signal as a reference instead of requiring a physical connected reference. The analyzer retrieves the reference signal from memory and compares it with the received signal, eliminating the need for simultaneous access to both signals through connected references while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical connected reference system with a digital signal processing approach. By using digital signal comparison and correlation techniques, the system achieves precise channel analysis without requiring physical connections between the signal source and analyzer
2Measurement precision
If a connected reference is used for channel analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability worsens in situations where simultaneous access to injected and received signals is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitted signal is stored as a digital copy in memory, allowing the analyzer to retrieve and compare against the received signal at any time. This copying mechanism enables the system to adapt to various measurement scenarios including long-distance networks, delayed signals, and frequency-shifting channels where simultaneous signal access is not feasible
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a time-synchronized reference approach to a digital storage and retrieval approach, adding the dimension of temporal flexibility. The reference signal can be accessed from memory at different times and compared with received signals that may have experienced delays or timing variations
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate equipment is used for source and analysis, then adaptability is improved for measuring channels spanning large distances, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The analyzer is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a signal receiver and a reference signal source through its digital memory. This universal device can perform channel analysis without requiring separate dedicated reference equipment, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability for various measurement scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for measuring characteristics of a signal transmission channel. A generator generates a defined signal as a function of user defined reference parameters, and injects the defined signal into an input of the signal transmission channel. An analyzer receives the defined signal from an output of the signal transmission channel. The analyzer also includes the user defined reference parameters, and measures a reference delay and reference frequency offset without any timing or phase reference synchronization with the generator. The analyzer computes a time-dependent (impulse response) and/or frequency-dependent (frequency response) variation of a response of the signal transmission channel relative to the reference delay and reference frequency offset.