Latest Connectors Technical Articles

In this article, we'll use practical examples to define and demonstrate the concept of electrical balance. In particular,…

In this article, we'll use practical examples to define and demonstrate the concept of electrical balance. In particular, we’ll examine differential signals and coax currents.

High-speed data transmission interfaces such as USB, HDMI, and Ethernet use differential signaling due to its superior…

High-speed data transmission interfaces such as USB, HDMI, and Ethernet use differential signaling due to its superior noise immunity. Even so, some noise still appears. To remove it, we need to understand where it comes from and why.

We analyze a Ruthroff 1:4 transformer's performance at high frequencies, then learn how to improve its bandwidth using…

We analyze a Ruthroff 1:4 transformer's performance at high frequencies, then learn how to improve its bandwidth using equal-delay networks and how to redesign the circuit for higher impedance transformation ratios.

Though both standards have long been used for serial communication, RS-485 offers valuable features that aren't available…

Though both standards have long been used for serial communication, RS-485 offers valuable features that aren't available from RS-232. Learn more in this article.

In this article, we conclude our discussion of VNAs by walking through the steps of a SOLT calibration and examining the…

In this article, we conclude our discussion of VNAs by walking through the steps of a SOLT calibration and examining the potential non-idealities of its reference standards.

The 12-term error model is a simple, effective way of modeling systematic errors in vector network analyzer (VNA)…

The 12-term error model is a simple, effective way of modeling systematic errors in vector network analyzer (VNA) measurements. Learn about this model and an associated error correction technique in this article.

In this article, we compare the scope of factory and user calibration for vector network analyzers (VNAs). We then learn…

In this article, we compare the scope of factory and user calibration for vector network analyzers (VNAs). We then learn about the types of errors that calibration techniques can't correct.

Learn the basics of how vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration techniques correct measurement errors.

Learn the basics of how vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration techniques correct measurement errors.

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.

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.

In this article, we explore the types of impedance tuners most commonly used for load-pull measurement—their…

In this article, we explore the types of impedance tuners most commonly used for load-pull measurement—their advantages, their disadvantages, and the methods by which they synthesize impedance.

The output power and efficiency of a power amplifier (PA) are highly dependent on its load terminations. Learn how to…

The output power and efficiency of a power amplifier (PA) are highly dependent on its load terminations. Learn how to characterize a PA's performance by analyzing load lines and estimating the load-pull contours of constant output power.

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 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.

Learn about the role of gain analysis in the design of unilateral RF amplifiers, first by reviewing the basic concepts…

Learn about the role of gain analysis in the design of unilateral RF amplifiers, first by reviewing the basic concepts and then by working through a pair of design examples.

Stability analysis is an integral part of RF design. Learn the basics of stability analysis, including how to determine…

Stability analysis is an integral part of RF design. Learn the basics of stability analysis, including how to determine whether a device is unconditionally stable or potentially unstable.