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Introduction to Near-Field Probes and Their Use in EMC Troubleshooting

Introduction to Near-Field Probes and Their Use in EMC Troubleshooting

Learn about the working principles of near-field probes and their applications in troubleshooting EMI issues.


Understanding RF Calibration Using Short, Open, Load, and Through Terminations

Understanding RF Calibration Using Short, Open, Load, and Through Terminations

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.


Understanding the 12-Term Error Model and SOLT Calibration Method for VNA Measurements

Understanding the 12-Term Error Model and SOLT Calibration Method for VNA Measurements

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.


Understanding the Limits of VNA Calibration

Understanding the Limits of VNA Calibration

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.


Introduction to VNA Calibration Techniques

Introduction to VNA Calibration Techniques

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


How to Estimate and Enhance the Dynamic Range of a Vector Network Analyzer

How to Estimate and Enhance the Dynamic Range of a Vector Network Analyzer

This article explains how to estimate the dynamic range a vector network analyzer (VNA) needs for a given measurement, then discusses four techniques for boosting the dynamic range to the required level.


Understanding the Inner Workings of Vector Network Analyzers

Understanding the Inner Workings of Vector Network Analyzers

In this article, we explore how the signal source and receivers of a VNA enable its function.


Introduction to the Directional Coupler for RF Applications

Introduction to the Directional Coupler for RF Applications

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 About Load-Pull Systems: Passive and Active Tuners

Learn About Load-Pull Systems: Passive and Active Tuners

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.


ADC Linearity Testing: the Sinusoidal Histogram Method

ADC Linearity Testing: the Sinusoidal Histogram Method

This article explains how to use a histogram test with a sinusoidal input to determine analog-to-digital converter (ADC) parameters, along with the advantages of doing so.


Histogram ADC Testing: The Linear Ramp Histogram Test

Histogram ADC Testing: The Linear Ramp Histogram Test

Histogram testing is the most popular method for determining analog-to-digital converter (ADC) static parameters. In this article, learn the basics of histogram testing and the specifics of how to use a linear ramp histogram test.


Understanding Limitations to Increasing SFDR in High-speed ADCs

Understanding Limitations to Increasing SFDR in High-speed ADCs

Learn about two nonlinearity sources, spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR), and SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) in analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).


Reducing Quantization Distortion Via Subtractive and Non-subtractive Dithering

Reducing Quantization Distortion Via Subtractive and Non-subtractive Dithering

Learn how dithering can suppress both harmonic and non-harmonic spurs and two different types of dithering systems: subtractive and non-subtractive topologies.


Digital Square Wave Generator Design Via a Ring Oscillator, 555 Timer, and Arduino

Digital Square Wave Generator Design Via a Ring Oscillator, 555 Timer, and Arduino

Learn about digital square wave generators using a ring oscillator, a 555 timer-based oscillator, and an Arduino-generated square wave oscillator.


How to Measure the Drive Level of a Quartz Crystal

How to Measure the Drive Level of a Quartz Crystal

Learn why the drive level of your quartz crystal oscillator is important and several methods for how to measure it.


Test and Measurement (T&M) Equipment You’ll Need for a Home Laboratory

Test and Measurement (T&M) Equipment You’ll Need for a Home Laboratory

For some of us, at-home work may be an extended reality beyond 2020. You’ll need the proper tools to accomplish your goals.


Touchscreen vs. Button Interface Design: Capacitive and Resistive Touchscreens and Haptics

Touchscreen vs. Button Interface Design: Capacitive and Resistive Touchscreens and Haptics

Learn about some of the most important fundamentals for understanding how interface technologies have evolved.


Understanding Radiated Electromagnetic Compatibility Tests

Understanding Radiated Electromagnetic Compatibility Tests

This article is the second in a two-part series that reviews the basics of electromagnetic compatibility tests. We'll now turn our attention to radiated EMC tests.


Understanding Electromagnetic Compatibility Tests: Conducted EMC

Understanding Electromagnetic Compatibility Tests: Conducted EMC

This article is the first in a two-part series that reviews the basics of electromagnetic compatibility tests. First, we'll focus on a main category of EMC tests—conducted EMC—and the relevant test setup.


Understanding Digital Oscilloscope Sample Rate and Analog Bandwidth Specs

Understanding Digital Oscilloscope Sample Rate and Analog Bandwidth Specs

In this article, we’ll examine two important specifications of a digital oscilloscope: analog bandwidth and sampling rate.