A transposed frequency technique for phase noise and frequency stability measurements

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel transposed frequency technique that extends digital phase noise and frequency stability measurements into the microwave domain, overcoming previous frequency limitations.

Contribution

The paper presents a new transposed frequency method that broadens digital phase noise measurement capabilities to higher microwave frequencies.

Findings

Enables phase noise measurements above 400 MHz

Allows characterization of phase fluctuations introduced by microwave components

Extends digital noise measurement range into microwave frequencies

Abstract

The digital signal processing has greatly simplified the process of phase noise measurements, especially in oscillators, but its applications are largely confined to the frequencies below 400 MHz. We propose a novel transpose frequency technique, which extends the frequency range of digital noise measurements to the microwave domain and beyond. We discuss two basic variations of the proposed noise measurement technique, one of which enables characterization of phase fluctuations added to the passing signal by the particular microwave component, for example by an amplifier, while another one is intended for measurements of phase fluctuations of the incoming signal itself.