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Foundations for PLL Nonlinear Analysis: Modeling the Phase Detector and VCO

Foundations for PLL Nonlinear Analysis: Modeling the Phase Detector and VCO

The phase-locked loop (PLL) is widely used in contemporary analog and digital communication systems. In this article, we develop a nonlinear model for the analog PLL by analyzing its key components.


Basic Principles and Implementation of the Quadrature FM Demodulator

Basic Principles and Implementation of the Quadrature FM Demodulator

Learn how an analog multiplier or AND gate can function as a quadrature detector for FM demodulation.


FM-to-AM Conversion Using the Foster-Seeley Discriminator

FM-to-AM Conversion Using the Foster-Seeley Discriminator

Learn how the Foster-Seeley discriminator, a classic analog circuit for FM demodulation, achieves its superior linearity.


Understanding Slope Detectors for FM Demodulation

Understanding Slope Detectors for FM Demodulation

In this article, we'll analyze the single-tuned discriminator for FM-to-AM conversion. We'll then discuss the balanced discriminator and how it provides improved linearity across a wider bandwidth.


Introduction to Frequency Discriminators for FM Demodulation

Introduction to Frequency Discriminators for FM Demodulation

In this article, we will examine the basic principles of FM demodulation through the simplest frequency discriminator: a differentiator.


FM Generation Techniques: Solved Examples

FM Generation Techniques: Solved Examples

In this article, we'll solidify our understanding of the reactance modulator and Armstrong modulator circuits by working through a series of design problems.


Armstrong’s Method of FM Generation

Armstrong’s Method of FM Generation

This article explores the concept of indirect FM generation and the basic operation of the Armstrong modulator.


Understanding Varactor and PLL-Based FM Generation Using Crystal Oscillators

Understanding Varactor and PLL-Based FM Generation Using Crystal Oscillators

In this article, we examine two different methods of producing wideband FM signals. Both use crystal oscillators to provide improved frequency stability.


Improving the Frequency Deviation and Stability of a Direct FM Generator

Improving the Frequency Deviation and Stability of a Direct FM Generator

In this article, we explore the limitations of LC oscillators for direct FM generation and how to deal with them using multipliers and automatic frequency control (AFC) circuits.


Using Varactor Diodes for FM Signal Generation

Using Varactor Diodes for FM Signal Generation

Learn how a varactor diode's variable capacitance, together with an LC tank circuit, can drive a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) to create FM waveforms.


An FM Generator Circuit Using the Capacitance of a Collector-Base Junction

An FM Generator Circuit Using the Capacitance of a Collector-Base Junction

In this article, we examine a reactance modulator design that employs the variable capacitance of a bipolar junction transistor to modulate the output of a Colpitts oscillator.


Introduction to Reactance Modulators for Generating FM Signals

Introduction to Reactance Modulators for Generating FM Signals

In this article, we'll introduce the fundamental concepts of direct FM generation and examine a key FM modulation circuit: the reactance modulator.


Dynamic Nonlinearity in RF Power Amplifiers: Insights From Two-Tone Testing

Dynamic Nonlinearity in RF Power Amplifiers: Insights From Two-Tone Testing

This article explores the effect of signal bandwidth on the linearity of power amplifiers, including the impacts of cascaded RF gain stages.


Practical Insights Into Narrowband FM With a Single-Frequency Input

Practical Insights Into Narrowband FM With a Single-Frequency Input

In this article, we’ll use phasor diagrams to compare narrowband FM and conventional AM. We’ll also discuss the problem of oscillator phase noise and work through an example problem.


Understanding the Third-Order Intercept Point of a Cascaded System

Understanding the Third-Order Intercept Point of a Cascaded System

Using the third-order intercept point (IP3) metric, we examine how the nonlinearity of individual gain stages in a cascaded RF system affects the linearity performance of the cascade as a whole.


Introduction to Narrowband Angle Modulation

Introduction to Narrowband Angle Modulation

Using a simple example, this article examines the frequency spectra of frequency-modulated (FM) and phase-modulated (PM) waves for a low modulation index.


Using the 1 dB Compression Point to Characterize RF System Nonlinearity

Using the 1 dB Compression Point to Characterize RF System Nonlinearity

Gain compression causes power systems to transition from linear to nonlinear operation. Learn how the 1 dB compression point is used to define the limits of linear operation.


Introduction to Weaver’s Method for SSB Signal Generation

Introduction to Weaver’s Method for SSB Signal Generation

Learn about the Weaver modulator, an RF circuit that improves on older forms of SSB modulation by removing the need for either sharp bandpass filters or quadrature phase shifters.


Using Analog Predistortion for RF Power Amplifier Linearization

Using Analog Predistortion for RF Power Amplifier Linearization

We explore the basic concepts of analog predistortion for linearizing RF amplifiers and review some common implementations.


Introduction to Single-Sideband Modulation: The Filter Method

Introduction to Single-Sideband Modulation: The Filter Method

Learn about a classic amplitude modulation (AM) technique that’s been used in voice transmission for nearly a century.