Feature

RF Engineers Automate Tests

Many test engineers sidestep the built-in capabilities in today's RF-test equipment and devise their own algorithms, applications, and automated tests.

By Martin Rowe Senior Technical Editor, Test & Measurement World -- EDN, 6/11/2009

Testing of RF devices, such as amplifiers and RFICs (radio-frequency integrated circuits), can be tedious work. Such devices work over a wide range of frequencies and power levels, and they must meet specifications over temperature and power-supply ranges. Testing for all of those conditions can generate loads of data. Fortunately, automation can cut test time and help you make sense of all that information. You may have a spectrum analyzer, a network analyzer, or a power meter with features that can improve testing, but you may be unable to use the instrument if you must maintain compatibility with older models. If you're testing leading-edge RF products, your test equipment may lack the necessary dedicated features, and you'll have to develop your own.