The Y-factor method simplifies noise figure measurements by allowing the use of variable attenuators in place of a calibrated power meter. In addition to defining the Y factor, we will discuss noise source uncertainty and fixturing losses that can introduce errors in your noise figure measurements.
August 11, 2023 by Dr. Steve Arar
The Y-factor method is a widely used technique for measuring the gain and noise figure (NF) of RF components. This article will help you understand the differences between the insertion gain and the available gain, while avoiding potentially significant errors when measuring the noise figure.
June 28, 2023 by Dr. Steve Arar
This project demonstrates the design and operation of a root-mean-squared (RMS) detector for inclusion in a wideband voltmeter. The RMS detector is useful for measuring certain signal types, including noise, since it provides an indication of the energy in a signal.
June 25, 2023 by John Woodgate
Learn about temperature drift in electronic circuits, namely in resistors and amplifiers. We'll also cover how the effect of flicker noise comes into play and how drift limits the effectiveness of signal averaging.
July 15, 2022 by Dr. Steve Arar
How does an amplifier's input offset voltage impact the accuracy of a current sense resistor's measurement? And how does amplifier output swing affect your shunt resistor value? Learn this and more in this technical article.
August 22, 2021 by Dr. Steve Arar
