Understanding Phase Noise Measurement Techniques

White Paper Overview 

Phase noise can be measured using traditional spectrum analyzers as well as dedicated phase noise analyzers. This white paper explains the difference between these two methodologies and in particular, how the cross-correlation method improves both the sensitivity and accuracy of phase noise measurements.

The article assumes a basic familiarity with phase noise and phase noise measurements. The Rohde & Schwarz white paper Understanding Phase Noise Fundamentals provides a general technical introduction to these topics.

You will learn about:

• The spectrum analyzer method
• Normalization and shape correction
• The cross-correlation method
• Cross-correlation gain