We recently announced a new noise figure analysis mode in our Spike RF analysis software. This new analysis mode has already been a big hit with many of our users, but for those that aren’t quite sure why making noise figure measurements is a big deal (or how to perform the measurement), we created a couple content items to help with the learning process.
Something to watch
For those who prefer to watch a process, Signal Hound programmer Roger Rush – developer of the noise figure analysis mode – sat down in front of the camera to walk through the process of making a basic noise figure measurement. The video explains why noise figure measurements are important, walks through an example hardware configuration, and then proceeds to demonstrate the making of a noise figure measurement. Head on over to YouTube to watch the video, or check it out here:
Questions while watching? Feel free to post questions in the comments below, or in the comments section of the video on YouTube.
Something to read
If you’d like to read and learn about noise figure measurements, then download our new Noise Figure Analysis Feature Overview PDF. The document talks about the why/how of noise figure measurements, includes a bunch of details on the math behind the measurement (the Y-Factor Method, specifically), and then provides a walk-through on performing the measurement.
The walk-through process requires Spike v 3.5.12, an SM or BB-series spectrum analyzer, a noise source, and a device to test. Even if you don’t have the ability to re-create the walk-through, understanding the concept of a noise figure measurement and the why/how is reason enough is to warrant a quick read, if you’re so inclined.
As always, if you’ve got questions, drop them below.
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