Part 1 of this FAQ explained the what and why of load-pull tests of RF devices and impedance matching. Part 2 looks at various ways the test can be set up and run. Q: What’s the basic test setup for a modern load pull? A: As shown in the figure of Part 1 (and repeated […]
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Load pull for RF devices, Part 1: What and why
Impedance matching between RF stages has always been a priority to ensure maximum transfer of RF power along with minimal RF-power reflections. Although most RF systems are designed for nominal 50-ohm input and output impedance (and 75-ohm for cable TV), the reality is that many components do not present that preferred 50-ohm impedance due to […]
Handheld measurement instruments let IoT network operators check conditions in the real world
New Nemo IoT Meter and Nemo Handy IoT instruments enable network operators and service providers to actively test networks in the field, ensuring the coverage and service quality of networks in mission-critical and consumer-based Internet of Things (IoT) applications, accelerating installations, and speeding time-to-revenue. “The availability of LTE network coverage does not necessarily mean that […]
Why 5G is going to over-the-air testing
Cables and connectors may become artifacts of the past for communication electronics as the world moves to 5G standards. SHERI DETOMASI, KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 5G is rapidly approaching and there is a lot of talk about over-the-air (OTA) testing – that is, testing without the DUT physically connected to the test equipment. I’ve seen test […]
Network-level channel emulator replicates field-testing conditions for MANET and mesh radios
The PROPSIM MANET Channel Emulation Solution secures end-to-end performance and interoperability of Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks (MANET) and mesh radio systems (a self-forming and self-healing reliable network that eliminates single points of failure) for tactical mission-critical wireless communications. Increased complexity and technological advancements, such as MIMO and beamforming in wireless military communication systems, has accelerated the […]
Test gear handles end-to-end 5G NR-ready channel emulation
The PROPSIM F64 5G Channel Emulation Solution is said to be the industry’s first 5G New Radio (NR)-ready channel emulation solution. Keysight’s PROPSIM F64 5G Channel Emulation Solution enables chipset, device, and network equipment manufacturers to characterize end-to-end system performance of the latest 4G and 5G base stations and mobile devices by emulating real-world radio […]
Download speeds hit 2 Gbps on LTE
LTE download data speeds of 2Gbps have been hit using Keysight’s 5G Protocol R&D Toolset and Qualcomm Technologies’ mobile test device, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X24 LTE modem. Keysight’s 5G Protocol R&D Toolset, the industry’s first 5G protocol test solution, is part of Keysight’s suite of Network Emulation Solutions, the only seamless radio frequency […]
RF power measurement, Part 2: What and how
Part 1 of this FAQ introduced some of the basic issues related to the measurement of RF power, which is a primary parameter in most RF designs. Part 2 continues the discussion, looking at RF waveforms and sensors. Q: The term “power” is fairly broad; what are the specifics? A: There are actually several basic […]
RF power measurement, Part 1: Why and where
When the subject is RF design, the word “power” dominates much of the discussion. This FAQ looks at some perspectives related to measurement of this vital RF parameter. Not only is power and measuring it among the most important RF design considerations, it is generally difficult to assess accurately, and it is getting harder […]
The RF power amplifier, Part 2: Considerations
Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the basic role and function of the RF power amplifier (PA). This part looks at some of the factors to consider when looking at possible PA devices. It is not a detailed run-through of the many parameters which characterize PAs, including many which are unique to the PA […]