A Fully Automated, Single-Connection Tester for T/R Modules

Abstract

This paper was written from both a specific and general point of view. The discussion on the tester's instrument integration included an actual block diagram of the Sandia tester; this was done to provide a specific example of how the HP 85110A's access links can be utilized. On the other hand, the de-embedding discussion and analysis was carried out from a general point of view to be of maximum service to the reader: the expression one should use to de-embed a measurement is ultimately a function of the measurement environment and the accuracy desired. For example, the usefulness of some of the approximations was shown to be a function of the instrument's reflection coefficient at the measurement frequency.