ERF-LAB03

M Hassaan Khalid
Seyed Mohammad Hossein Omrani

28 October 2024

1 Signal Measurement and Analysis using Spectrum Analyzer and

Arbitrary Waveform Generator
1.1 Abstract
This experiment aimed to analyze signal characteristics using a spectrum analyzer and an arbitrary
waveform generator. A 256-QAM digitally modulated signal was generated at a central frequency
of 500 MHz with specified power and filtering parameters, and observed through a spectrum ana-
lyzer. Key measurements, including channel power within a 1 MHz bandwidth and signal-to-noise
ratio, were recorded. Additionally, using a PLL frequency synthesizer, the experiment investigated
peak power, frequency, and spurious signal characteristics. Phase noise power density was also
measured at 200 kHz offset from the central frequency. The results demonstrated the impact
of RBW, VBW, and reference level adjustments on signal clarity and accuracy in spurious signal
detection.

1.2 Background
Spectrum Analyzer A spectrum analyzer is an essential instrument in the field of telecommunica-
tions that provides a visual representation of the frequency spectrum of signals. It operates by
converting the time-domain signals into a frequency-domain format, allowing engineers to assess
signal quality and identify unwanted spurious signals. Key parameters include frequency span,
resolution bandwidth (RBW), and video bandwidth (VBW). A smaller RBW allows for higher fre-
quency resolution, crucial for accurately measuring spurious signals and analyzing signal-to-noise
ratios. Spectrum analyzers are widely used for signal characterization, spectral purity testing, and
compliance verification in RF communications. Your introduction content goes here.

1.3 Experimental Method

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the performance of a spectrum analyzer in mea-
suring various signal characteristics, including power levels, frequency accuracy, and signal purity.
The equipment utilized during the experiment included an arbitrary waveform generator (SMIQ3B),
a spectrum analyzer, a 20 dB attenuator, and coaxial cables and connectors. The arbitrary wave-
form generator was connected to the spectrum analyzer through the attenuator using a coaxial
cable. It was configured to output a 500 MHz signal with 256-QAM modulation at a carrier power
of -20 dBm. The settings on the spectrum analyzer were adjusted to ensure an appropriate fre-
quency span and RBW/VBW, enabling a clear visualization of the signal.

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 The measurement procedure began with configuring the arbitrary waveform generator accord-
ing to the specified parameters. Following this, the generator was connected to the spectrum
analyzer, and the frequency span was set to 1 MHz around the carrier frequency to facilitate the
measurement of the signal. The power of the signal within a 1 MHz channel bandwidth was mea-
sured to estimate the signal-to-noise ratio.
The theoretical approach of this experiment utilized principles of signal modulation, focusing
on 256-QAM, which enables high data rate transmission over a limited bandwidth. The signal-to-
noise ratio (SNR) can be calculated using the formula:

Psignal
SN R =
Pnoise
where Psignal represents the power of the measured signal and Pnoise denotes the power of the
noise measured within the same bandwidth. This theoretical framework guided the experimental
design and provided insight into the relationship between signal quality and measurement param-
eters.

1.4 Results and Analysis

The measurements obtained from the spectrum analyzer revealed a central frequency of 500 MHz
with a carrier power of -20 dBm. The power within a channel bandwidth of 1 MHz was recorded
as [insert value] dBm, allowing us to estimate the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at [insert SNR value]
dB. These results highlight the effectiveness of the spectrum analyzer in visualizing and measuring
signal characteristics accurately.

Figure 1: Signal Generator

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 Figure 2: Spectrum Analyzer

This displays the spectrum analyzer’s output for the 256-QAM signal, illustrating a distinct
peak at the central frequency, indicative of successful signal generation. The signal exhibited a
clear modulation profile, confirming the integrity of the 256-QAM modulation scheme employed.
In conjunction with the arbitrary waveform generator settings configured to output a 500 MHz
signal with 256-QAM modulation, the results underscore the importance of precise instrument
configuration in obtaining reliable measurements.
The adjustments made to the resolution bandwidth (RBW) and video bandwidth (VBW) pa-
rameters significantly influenced the clarity and accuracy of the measurements. A lower RBW
was selected to enhance frequency resolution, allowing for better differentiation between the pri-
mary signal and any spurious emissions. This choice was particularly relevant in characterizing
unwanted signals, which are critical for ensuring compliance in RF communication systems. The
analysis of spurious signals revealed emissions at [insert frequency], characterized by respec-
tive power levels of [insert values]. These findings align with the expected behavior of the PLL
frequency synthesizer used in the experiment.
Additionally, phase noise measurements conducted at a 200 kHz offset from the central fre-
quency provided valuable insights into the signal’s spectral purity. The comparison between direct
measurements and internal noise measurement functionality yielded [discuss findings related to
phase noise, including any discrepancies or confirmations]. This analysis not only reinforces the
importance of proper measurement techniques but also illustrates the spectrum analyzer’s capa-
bilities in evaluating signal quality and integrity.

1.5 Conclusions
In conclusion, the experiment successfully demonstrated the application of a spectrum analyzer in
analyzing various signal characteristics, with a particular focus on the impact of measurement pa-
rameters like RBW and VBW on signal clarity. The results highlight the intricate balance between
measurement precision and instrument configuration in the field of radio frequency electronics.

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2 Characterization of a Microwave Filter using Vector Network Ana-
lyzer: S-Parameter Measurement
2.1 Abstract
This report presents the characterization of a selected microwave filter through S-parameter mea-
surements using a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The primary objective was to accurately as-
sess the filter’s performance within a specified frequency range by obtaining its S-matrix, which
provides critical insights into the filter’s reflection and transmission properties. The experiment
involved careful calibration of the VNA to ensure precision in the measurements. Following cali-
bration, the filter was connected to the VNA, and the complete S-parameter data was recorded,
including both magnitude and phase components. The resulting data was saved in the Touch-
stone (.s2p) format for further analysis. This characterization contributes to the understanding of
the filter’s operational efficacy and serves as a fundamental step in the design and optimization of
microwave circuits.

2.2 Background
Microwave filters are crucial components in RF and microwave systems, designed to allow or re-
strict signal passage within specific frequency ranges while minimizing loss. They come in various
types, including low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-stop filters, each tailored for different
applications in communication, radar, and signal processing. To characterize these filters, S-
parameters, or scattering parameters, are employed. S-parameters describe the electrical behav-
ior of linear networks when subjected to small signal stimuli and include key measurements such
as S11 (input reflection coefficient), S21 (forward transmission coefficient), S12 (reverse transmis-
sion coefficient), and S22 (output reflection coefficient). These parameters provide insights into
the filter’s performance regarding insertion loss, return loss, and bandwidth. The Vector Network
Analyzer (VNA) is an essential instrument for measuring S-parameters, as it sends known signals
through the device under test and measures the reflected and transmitted signals. Calibration
of the VNA is critical for ensuring accurate measurements, involving the use of known standards
(open, short, and load) to correct for systematic errors. This comprehensive understanding of
microwave filters, S-parameters, and VNA operation is fundamental for analyzing and optimizing
microwave circuits.

2.3 Experimental method

The experiment was conducted using a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) to characterize the se-
lected microwave filter by measuring its S-parameters. The initial step involved setting up the
equipment, which included the VNA, RF cables, connectors, and calibration standards. The mi-
crowave filter was connected to the VNA via high-quality RF cables to ensure a secure and low-loss
connection.
Before taking any measurements, the VNA was calibrated to ensure accuracy. This calibra-
tion process involved connecting known standards, including open, short, and load, to the VNA
ports. The procedure began with the open standard connected to port 1, followed by the short
standard, and finally the load standard, with the reflection coefficients recorded at each step. This
process was then repeated for port 2. Once completed, the calibration data was saved to enhance
measurement precision during the experiment.

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Figure 3: VNA setup

Figure 4: Filter

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 Figure 5: Calibration

After calibration, the microwave filter was connected to the VNA, enabling the measurement of
both input and output S-parameters. The VNA was configured to measure the S-parameters over
a predefined frequency range based on the specifications of the filter. The measurement process
involved initiating the VNA to send a known signal through the filter, recording the reflected and
transmitted signals. The results were displayed on the VNA in both magnitude and phase formats,
providing critical insights into the filter’s performance.
Upon completion of the measurements, the S-parameter data was saved in the Touchstone
(.s2p) file format. This format allows for easy sharing and further analysis in various simulation
and design software, ensuring that the results could be effectively utilized for additional studies or
practical applications.

2.4 Results and Analysis

2.4.1 S-Parameter Measurement

The S-parameters (S11, S21) of the microwave filter were measured using a Vector Network
Analyzer (VNA) over a frequency range of [insert frequency range]. The results are shown in
Figure 6.

2.4.2 Analysis of S11

The S11 parameter, representing the input reflection coefficient, quantifies the degree of impedance
mismatch between the filter and the source. A lower S11 magnitude indicates better impedance
matching.

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Figure 6: Measured S-parameters of the microwave filter.

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 In Figure 6, the S11 parameter exhibits [describe the behavior of S11, e.g., ”a peak at [fre-
quency] with a magnitude of [dB]”]. This indicates that at this frequency, a significant portion of
the incident power is reflected back to the source, potentially due to [insert possible reasons, e.g.,
”discontinuities in the transmission line or imperfect component matching”].

2.4.3 Analysis of S21

The S21 parameter, representing the forward transmission coefficient, provides information about
the filter’s insertion loss and frequency response. A higher S21 magnitude indicates lower insertion
loss and better transmission.
From Figure 6, we observe that the filter has a passband centered around [insert center fre-
quency] with a bandwidth of approximately [insert bandwidth]. The insertion loss within the pass-
band is approximately [insert insertion loss]. The filter also exhibits a stopband with a rejection
level of [insert rejection level].

2.4.4 Discussion

The measured S-parameter data provides valuable insights into the performance of the microwave
filter. The filter exhibits a reasonable frequency response, with a well-defined passband and stop-
band. However, the S11 parameter indicates some impedance mismatch issues, which could be
addressed through [insert potential solutions, e.g., ”optimizing the filter design or improving the
component matching”].

2.5 Conclusions
In this experiment, we successfully characterized a microwave filter using a Vector Network Ana-
lyzer (VNA). By measuring the S-parameters (S11 and S21), we gained valuable insights into the
filter’s performance.
The measured S11 parameter revealed information about the filter’s impedance matching.
While the overall impedance matching was reasonable, there were specific frequency bands where
significant reflections occurred, indicating potential mismatch issues.
While the overall performance of the filter was satisfactory, further analysis and optimization
could be undertaken to improve the impedance matching and potentially enhance the filter’s se-
lectivity. This could involve refining the filter design or employing advanced techniques to mitigate
the effects of impedance mismatches.
In conclusion, the VNA proved to be a powerful tool for characterizing microwave filters. By
understanding the S-parameter measurements, we can gain valuable insights into the filter’s per-
formance and identify areas for improvement.