Converting a phase noise specification to jitter is often desirable for digital designers and others used to working in the time domain. This app note describes the principles of phase noise as well as deriving the conversion to jitter. A useful list of references is also included.
This connector identifier guide features schematic drawings of over 50 different connector types in each gender. The guide also features a chart comparing the maximum frequency capability of each type. A small glossary of RF terms is also included.
These presentation notes describe some best practices and potential pitfalls of using "lab" versus "general" precision connectors in your testing environment. In this paper, "lab" precision generally refers to the air-dielectric 3.5-mm and 2.92-mm connectors, while "general" precision refers to SMA-style connectors.
This application note provides and in-depth analysis of the performance of connections using mixed connector types among SMA, 3.5-mm, and 2.92-mm varieties. These connectors are all designed to work together mechanically, but have some differences electrically.
This Watkins Johnson app note describes dynamic range measurements on receivers. Part 2 discusses "comprehensive measurements," or figures of merit that combine the primary measurements, such as noise figure or IP3, to provide a picture of the range of power levels that a receiver can handle. The app note is hosted on RF Café.
This Watkins-Johnson app note describes the factors affecting the dynamic range of receivers. Part 1 focuses on "primary measurements," which include noise figure, IP2, IP3, 1dB compression, phase noise, and internal spurs. The app note is hosted on RF Café.com
Noise figure is often the key to characterizing a receiver and its ability to detect weak incoming signals in the presence of self-generated noise. The process of reducing noise figure begins with a solid understanding of the uncertainties in your components, subsystems and test setups. Quantifying those unknowns depends on flexible tools that provide accurate, reliable results.