Net analyzer software eases measurement of satellite-link group delay, phase linearity
Solving a difficult, persistent problem in satellite system test, the ZVA-K10 software option for ZVA and ZVT high-end network analyzers accurately measures group delay and phase linearity on satellite links using two network analyzers located at separate sites. Unlike all other commercial test methods, the network analyzers do not need to access the local oscillator when measuring frequency-converting devices.
With increasing transmission rates placing more stringent demands on transmission quality, precise measurement of group delay and phase linearity is vital. Users can perform accurate measurements on up- and down-converters, as well as on complete transmission systems or individual components such as transmitters, receivers or mixers.
Rather than rely on long, lossy, motion-sensitive RF cables to connect widely separated input and output to an analyzer, the new test method lets users connect one network analyzer to the transmit port and one to the receive port. The two network analyzers communicate and synchronize the test sequence via a LAN connection. The ZVA stimulates the DUT with a two-tone signal and measures the phase difference between the two carriers at the input and the output. From the phase difference, it calculates the group delay and the relative phase of the DUT’s transfer function. Any changes in the local oscillator’s frequency and phase have an identical effect on both carriers and are eliminated by the difference measurement; they do not, therefore, affect measurement accuracy. ($7,745 — available now.)
By Richard Comerford
Rohde & Schwarz , Columbia , MD
Customer Support North America 888-837-8772
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