It is a superior method than conventional approaches that include an RF balun with only an S-parameter description or neglect correlation between device under test (DUT) output ports, which lead to improper characterization of differential devices. The result is more comprehensive characterization of actual device performance for greater design confidence. Measurement analysis of both correlated and uncorrelated noise can be conducted with the new differential noise figure technique. The new enhanced noise figure option adds the ability to perform levels of vector correction in 2- and multi-port devices for greater accuracy particularly, when mismatch is significant. The Anritsu differential noise figure option incorporates the similar cold-source measurement technique as its 2-port method, which minimizes mismatch errors for improved accuracy compared to the conventional Y-factor noise source method.

The new differential noise figure option enhances the 2-port single-ended noise figure measurement capability of the VectorStar and allows the VNAs to measure 3- and 4-port devices in single-ended, differential and common mode operation with a variety of processing options. The option is available on VectorStar models operating from 70 kHz and up to 20 GHz, 40 GHz, 70 GHz, and 110 GHz. The solution, which integrates a new differential noise figure option into the Anritsu VectorStar™ vector network analyzers (VNAs), allows R&D engineers to verify the receiver performance of low noise amplifiers (LNAs) and other devices used in the front-end of 5G and microwave back haul systems. Anritsu Corporation introduces the industry’s first solution capable of conducting extensive characterization of the differential noise figure of differential devices used in high-speed wireless communication systems.

Vectorstar