Riding the Microwave

Sample microwave applications
 
  Signal generation
Simplifying radar testing
Digital modulation up to 40 GHz
 
  Power measurement
EIRP measurements

For satellite communications, being able to continuously monitor transmission signals directly from the antenna is of critical importance. Continuous measurements need to be performed on the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) of the antenna in order to assess the receive and transmit quality of the signals.

The Power Meter R&S NRP is ideal for this purpose. It measures the transmit power (see figure) or receive power, and forwards this information to a control unit. The control unit evaluates the data and compares it with reference values. If deviations occur, the antenna is adjusted until the optimum receive and transmit power levels are obtained.

EIRP measurements
Typical transmit path setup of a satellite communications antenna.
Continuous EIRP measurements are performed to check the antenna‘s transmit signal quality;
the purpose of the power meter is to check the antenna‘s transmit power
 
  Signal analysis
Power measurements on pulsed radar signals
Noise figure measurement
Scalar analysis with independent generation and spectrum analysis capability
Phase noise measurement – cross-correlation to reduce phase noise
 
  Vector network analysis
Frequency-converting frontend measurement
Antenna measurement with remote mixers