Validating RF Frontends for Satellite Links

RF frontends are becoming increasingly integrated and complex. Discover a practical OTA approach for accurately measuring group delay in frequency-converting RF frontends for satellite links.

Group Delay Measurements for Satellite RF Frontends

Over-the-Air (OTA) Testing of Integrated Antenna Systems

Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) Calibration Techniques

RF Frequency Conversion and Mixer Characterization

Harmonic Phase Reference Calibration Using Comb Generators

Validation of Active Antennas and RF Frontend Performance

Application Note Overview

As satellite RF frontends become more integrated, measuring group delay across frequency-converting devices in an OTA environment becomes increasingly challenging. Accurate group delay is critical for maintaining communication, navigation and radar performance.

This application note presents a practical measurement approach using the R&S ZNA vector network analyzer and ZN-ZCG comb generator; where the two-stage calibration method establishes a defined phase relationship across frequency-converting paths, enabling broadband group delay measurements without relying on a frequency-specific calibration mixer. The approach is validated in a CATR chamber on an active antenna with an integrated mixer, demonstrating close agreement between OTA and conducted measurements.