Keysight‘s VNA Best Captures 5G mmWave Power Amplifier EVM
![vector network analyzer,VNA,modulation distortion analysis software,EVM](https://en.sekorm.com/front/website/images/logo_v2_2x.png?v=2x01)
Ultra-reliable low latency communication (uRLLC), massive MIMO, phased arrays—the implementation demands of 5G FR2 are propelling revolutionary transformation in communication technology. While normalized loads and linear behavior are every amplifier designer's dream, massive MIMO and beamforming architectures experience highly variable load conditions in practical applications. Further complexity is added with 5G FR2's millimeter wave (mmWave) carrier frequencies, wide-bandwidth signals, and complex modulation schemes which impose stringent component error vector magnitude (EVM) qualification. Designers face increasing challenges in generating accurate device models, minimizing design cycles, and certifying their device's 5G conformance with a traditional EVM measurement signal analyzer setup.
VNA Active Device Characterization Essentials, Keysight PNA Product Manager, Nizar Messaoudi, and Focus Microwave Executive Vice President, Vincent Mallette, discussed how using a vector network analyzer (VNA) instead of a signal analyzer to capture EVM simplifies the measurement set-up, enables measurement repeatability and allows component characterization under realistic load conditions. Nizar describes the critical importance of accurate, repeatable EVM measurements for power amplifiers (PAs), as well as the need for designers to subject their PAs to as realistic conditions as possible when gathering EVM data.
Although measuring a 5G mmWave power amplifier's EVM can be complex and error-prone, using Keysight's VNA with modulation distortion analysis software allows for faster EVM measurements with increased signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) while under a modulated signal stimulus. Nizar shows how 5G's complex modulation signals can be generated by the vector signal generator (VXG), and in conjunction with the VNA's arbitrary load control application and a passive tuner, EVM under variable load conditions can be measured. This provides designers with realistic power amplifier performance measurements under beamforming conditions.
Expanding on Nizar's comments, Vincent Mallette provides an in-depth review of load-pull measurements, how to perform load-pull measurements with a passive tuner, and what the benefit of load-pull measurements is for power amplifiers. Both illustrate how modulation distortion analysis plus load pull on a VNA with a passive tuner is the best way to gain insight into how a PA would perform in beamforming phased array application.
Spurred by the demands of 5G, the pace of technological transformation in communication system architecture introduces a variety of design and test challenges. Achieving the lowest residual EVM is crucial for implementing power amplifiers in massive MIMO phased arrays with wide bandwidth signals and complex modulation schemes.
- +1 Like
- Add to Favorites
Recommend
- Keysight Unveils First Midrange Network Analyzer Delivering Fast, Accurate Error Vector Magnitude Measurements
- Keysight, FormFactor, DMPI and VDI Join Forces to Deliver a New 170GHz/220GHz Broadband Vector Network Analysis Solution
- Keysight Introduces Software-Defined Handheld Analyzer N9912C
- Handheld DS2800 Spectrum Analyzer Incorporates Unique Test Capabilities that Ensure Proper Installation of Cable Networks and Reduce Service Calls
- What Is the Difference Between Vector Signal Source and Radio Frequency Signal Source?
- Exploring Vector Signal Generators
- Deviser Instruments Introduces the DS2831 Digital TV Spectrum Analyzer Family Enabling a Smooth Transition to OFDM and DOCSIS 3.1 HFC Networks
- Keysight Technologies Acquires Quantum Benchmar, Augmenting Keysight‘s Quantum Portfolio
This document is provided by Sekorm Platform for VIP exclusive service. The copyright is owned by Sekorm. Without authorization, any medias, websites or individual are not allowed to reprint. When authorizing the reprint, the link of www.sekorm.com must be indicated.