Servo-loop testing allows the determination of an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) transfer function. This article will describe the basics of servo-loop ADC testing and illustrate several different servo-loop test configurations.
August 20, 2023 by Dr. Steve Arar
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
This article will demonstrate that the AC current density decreases exponentially into a conductor. It will also explain why we can assume that the total current has a uniform distribution from the surface down to one skin depth of the conductor.
August 06, 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
An encoding technique used for digital communication, pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) converts a discrete-time signal into a variable-amplitude continuous-time signal that is suitable for high-speed wired communication systems.
January 22, 2023 by Robert Keim
