改进双音三阶互调的测试.pdfVIP

Improve Two-tone, Third Order Testing First its important to define the significance of input levels. Then full details on the measurement technique. Two-tone, third-order intermodulation distortion (IM) expresses the degree of non-linearity of an amplifier or mixer. Normally, this parameter is not expressed on data sheets because it is dependent upon operating frequencies, terminating impedance and input levels. So two-tone, third-order distortion must be measured under specific performance conditions. The two most common errors in these measurements are (1) failure to provide adequate isolation between the two input signal generators and proper impedance matching, and (2) insufficient filtering of the two input test signals. Without adequate isolation and matching, interaction between the test generators and the device-under-test may produce significant errors (as high as 20 dB). Without sufficient filtering, the generator harmonic will contribute to the distortion displayed on the spectrum analyzer and device performance thus will not be properly evaluated. Before proceeding with the actual test, it is very important to note that two-tone, third-order IM distortion is only meaningful when the input levels to the device-under-test are defined. Without these stated input levels, the IM figures have no significance. To illustrate, suppose you wanted a device with a two-tone, third-order level of 60 dB. You could set up the test equipment as shown in the block diagram (Fig. 1) and vary the input levels of generators #1 and #2 until you eventually reached the 60 dB IM level. However, unless your particular application dictates exactly the same RF input levels as your test setup inputs, the IM distortion figure is meaningless. For example, examine the spectrum analyzer display for a ZAY 1 double-balanced mixer, Fig. 2. Notice the significant difference in two-tone, third-order component with an input level