Amplifier measurements
The R&S®ZVA system concept, featuring independent synthesizers, enables measurements on amplifiers and frequency-converting DUTs such as mixers and frontends. The measurements stand out for their high versatility, wide dynamic range, high speed, and accuracy. Internal as well as several external generators can be configured, calibrated, and controlled independently of one another. The high spectral purity of the source signals as well as the high intercept point and high sensitivity of the receivers eliminate the need for external filters in multitone measurements and measurements on frequency-converting DUTs.
Large- and small-signal behavior in a single sweep
The R&S®ZVA's high output power and wide power sweep range of more than 50 dB (typ. 60 dB) allow the transmission and compression characteristics of amplifiers to be determined largely without any additional preamplifiers being required. This measurement is carried out simply and quickly versus frequency and power. The power sweep range is traversed wear-free and without interruption, since no mechanical attenuators have to be switched. The behavior of small and large signals can thus be displayed in a single sweep.
Second internal source for quick and easy intermodulation measurements
The R&S®ZVA four-port model provides a second independent source; therefore, intermodulation measurements on amplifiers can be performed without an external generator. The R&S®ZVA receivers feature very good power-handling capability and low phase noise, which enables high-quality intermodulation measurements requiring only a minimum of external components.
Hot S-parameter measurements – optimization of amplifiers under load conditions
Power amplifiers must be characterized with full output power to ensure that they are optimally matched to the load connected to their output. To determine S22 under realistic operating conditions, a stimulating signal is applied to the amplifier input. A low-power signal - which is the actual S22 test signal - is applied to the amplifier output (i.e. in the reverse direction). To separate the high-power output signal of the amplifier from the reflected low-power signal, the two sources are swept in parallel, but with a small frequency offset. Thus, only the desired S22 measurement signal passes the IF filter. The R&S®ZVA performs this measurement with a wide dynamic range due to the robust automatic level control and the high selectivity and sensitivity of its receivers.
