In this article, we investigate two metrics used to characterize the performance of RF test and measurement systems.
In this article, we investigate two metrics used to characterize the performance of RF test and measurement systems.
In this article, we explore how the signal source and receivers of a VNA enable its function.
In this article, we explore how the signal source and receivers of a VNA enable its function.
Directional couplers are valuable tools for testing RF systems. However, the finite directivity of these devices can…
Directional couplers are valuable tools for testing RF systems. However, the finite directivity of these devices can cause measurement uncertainty. Learn more in this article.
Learn about the balun, a special type of transformer used in mixers, amplifiers, and signaling.
Learn about the balun, a special type of transformer used in mixers, amplifiers, and signaling.
As part of a vector network analyzer (VNA), a directional coupler enables us to characterize a device’s performance by…
As part of a vector network analyzer (VNA), a directional coupler enables us to characterize a device’s performance by its S-parameters. Read this article to learn more about this important piece of equipment.
Learn how a push-pull Class B amplifier functions, how to calculate its efficiency, and how its performance compares to…
Learn how a push-pull Class B amplifier functions, how to calculate its efficiency, and how its performance compares to the inductively-loaded Class A design.
The small-signal characteristics of MOSFETs play an important role in analog IC design. In this article, we learn how to…
The small-signal characteristics of MOSFETs play an important role in analog IC design. In this article, we learn how to model MOS transistors' small-signal behaviors.
How does a Class B power amplifier work? What makes it more efficient than a Class A power amplifier? Learn the answers…
How does a Class B power amplifier work? What makes it more efficient than a Class A power amplifier? Learn the answers in this article.
Have you ever needed an unusual, non-standard resistance value for the project you are building? This article will…
Have you ever needed an unusual, non-standard resistance value for the project you are building? This article will provide you with a simple series of steps to build the resistance you need from a collection of resistors.
Learn how an inductively-loaded common-emitter stage can function as a power amplifier.
Learn how an inductively-loaded common-emitter stage can function as a power amplifier.
RF amplifier design is a challenging task, involving trade-offs between linearity, efficiency, gain, and output power.…
RF amplifier design is a challenging task, involving trade-offs between linearity, efficiency, gain, and output power. Here, we examine how a common-emitter circuit can, or can't, function as a power amplifier.
Learn how the available power gain concept can help us solve the problem of designing a bilateral RF amplifier for a…
Learn how the available power gain concept can help us solve the problem of designing a bilateral RF amplifier for a specified gain and noise figure.
In this article, we learn about noise parameters and use Smith charts to design a unilateral low-noise amplifier (LNA)…
In this article, we learn about noise parameters and use Smith charts to design a unilateral low-noise amplifier (LNA) for a specified gain.
This project will cover the design, construction, and testing of an analog filter meeting the ITU-R BS.468-4…
This project will cover the design, construction, and testing of an analog filter meeting the ITU-R BS.468-4 specification, which aims to evaluate the disturbing effects of noise on audio broadcast signals.
Learn ways to test an RF amplifier's stability, techniques to stabilize its operation, and how RF design software can…
Learn ways to test an RF amplifier's stability, techniques to stabilize its operation, and how RF design software can help you do both.
For newbie RF designers, the field's variety of power gain definitions can cause confusion. This article explains how,…
For newbie RF designers, the field's variety of power gain definitions can cause confusion. This article explains how, why, and when to use the operating power gain definition in RF amplifier design.
A PIR sensor detects objects to allow a Raspberry Pi Pico running MicroPython code to adjust the frequency of a Science…
A PIR sensor detects objects to allow a Raspberry Pi Pico running MicroPython code to adjust the frequency of a Science Fair electronic oscillator circuit with audio output.
This article uses SPICE simulations to explain the functionality of hysteresis based on positive feedback in a comparator circuit.
This article uses SPICE simulations to explain the functionality of hysteresis based on positive feedback in a comparator circuit.
Learn about the behavior and benefits of hysteresis in comparator circuits, magnetic components, and high-power devices.
Learn about the behavior and benefits of hysteresis in comparator circuits, magnetic components, and high-power devices.
This article explores the design of bilateral RF amplifiers for maximum transducer gain, and explains how to assess…
This article explores the design of bilateral RF amplifiers for maximum transducer gain, and explains how to assess whether an RF amplifier is bilateral or unilateral.