Anritsu introduces waveguide mixer for mmWave signal analysis

Jan. 28, 2016

Richardson, TX. Anritsu has introduced the MA2806A high performance waveguide mixer that can be integrated with its MS2830A spectrum/signal analyzer to create a millimeter-wave (mmWave) measurement solution that eliminates the complexity and uncertainty associated with conventional mmWave signal-analysis tools. The MA2806A/MS2830A solution offers engineers an accurate, simple system to verify modules, components, antennas, and systems designed into microwave and mmWave infrastructure and equipment for HD video streaming, WiGig (802.11ad), and human detection and vehicle sensing applications.

When used with the MS2830A-044/045 models, the MA2806A supports spectrum-mask measurements of the V band (50 to 75 GHz) to accurately determine characteristics of ultra-wideband signals. P1dB performance of better than 0 dBm as well as minimum sensitivity performance of -150 dBm/Hz (meas) can be achieved, along with wide dynamic range. Design, manufacture, and QA engineers can now measure extremely weak signals at V band frequencies that are typically missed by conventional measurement systems.

Combining the MA2806A with the MS2830A analyzers that are designed for a high IF of 1.875 GHz supports spectrum-mask measurements of 1-GHz bandwidth signals. This eliminates image-response effects, such as displaying ghost signals that exist with conventional harmonic mixers and result in inaccurate measurements. Additionally, a new patent-pending preselection function allows accurate measurements to be made up to the 7.5-GHz measurement span.

The two-instrument MA2806A and MS2830A platform is a simpler and cost-efficient alternative to conducting fast measurements at higher frequencies. It replaces legacy methods that use a downconverter that requires a separate mixer, spectrum analyzer, microwave signal generator, multiplier, and other equipment. These traditional systems can only be used by engineers with high-level technical skills.

Anritsu further simplifies conducting measurements by supplying a standard USB memory stick containing the conversion loss correction data for all frequencies with the MA2806A. This data can be easily loaded to the MS2830A using straight-forward button operation to perform auto-correction for each measured frequency.

The MS2830A spectrum/signal analyzers with optional built-in vector signal generator (VSG) are flexible, compact one-box Tx and Rx test solutions. The series includes five models that support various frequency ranges from 9 kHz to 43 GHz and offer high performance, versatility, and fast measurement speed. Each instrument features a unique Capture & Playback functionality that enables users to capture real-world signals in the field and then recreate them in the lab or on the production line.

www.anritsu.com

About the Author

Rick Nelson | Contributing Editor

Rick is currently Contributing Technical Editor. He was Executive Editor for EE in 2011-2018. Previously he served on several publications, including EDN and Vision Systems Design, and has received awards for signed editorials from the American Society of Business Publication Editors. He began as a design engineer at General Electric and Litton Industries and earned a BSEE degree from Penn State.

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