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Millimeter wave measurement technology challenges and benefits
The most promising millimeter-wave applications today are primarily found in the E and V bands. The E-band operates between 60 GHz and 90 GHz, where line-of-sight (LOS) transmission is the only viable option due to atmospheric absorption. This is because molecules like oxygen, water vapor, and nitrogen absorb energy at specific wavelengths in this range. Despite these challenges, the availability of substantial spectrum resources continues to drive innovation and future technology development in these frequency ranges. Similarly, the V-band spans from 40 GHz to 75 GHz and is widely used for satellite communications.
Three key applications are currently being developed in these bands: mobile backhaul, automotive radar, and Wi-Gig. Mobile backhaul is crucial as hyper-heterogeneous networks now rely on numerous small base stations, significantly increasing the demand for high-capacity return links. These wireless connections, operating with bandwidths exceeding 1 GHz, provide a robust solution for modern and future network backhaul, often surpassing fiber-based alternatives. Automotive radar, particularly at 79 GHz, is set to become the standard for FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) technology, enabling precise target detection in dynamic environments. Meanwhile, Wi-Gig, an 802.11 standard operating at 60 GHz, supports ultra-high-rate data transmission, such as uncompressed HDTV and real-time multimedia, using a 2 GHz bandwidth.
To implement these technologies effectively, advanced measurement instruments are essential. These tools must offer excellent dynamic range to handle highly attenuated signals and the capability to measure ultra-wideband signals accurately.
**Challenges of Millimeter-Wave Devices and Measurement Solutions**
**Harmonics**
Harmonic mixers use harmonic components of the local oscillator (LO) signal, which can lead to performance limitations. While they offer a cost-effective solution, they suffer from two main issues: increased losses at higher frequencies and significant image response interference. For example, when measuring a 4 GHz bandwidth signal from an FMCW radar using a harmonic mixer, the mirrored response may overlap with the actual signal, making accurate measurements difficult. Image suppression techniques are not always effective, especially for continuously modulated signals like FMCW.
**Typical Downconversion Configuration**
A traditional downconversion setup avoids harmonic mixing by using a dedicated LO signal, allowing for a more stable intermediate frequency (IF). However, this approach requires multiple components—mixers, multipliers, filters, and amplifiers—making it complex and time-consuming to configure and maintain.
**High-Performance Base Mixers**
Anritsu’s high-performance base mixers, such as the MA2808A and MA2806A, integrate waveguide technology, single-stage multipliers, low-noise amplifiers, and filters. These devices offer superior dynamic range and image rejection, eliminating the need for external components. They simplify system configuration, reduce calibration efforts, and improve overall measurement accuracy.
**Typical Measurement Items for Millimeter-Wave Equipment**
Millimeter-wave device testing involves two main areas: RF output characteristics and modulation or signal quality. For instance, transmit power, frequency error, and stray radiation must be measured with high sensitivity, especially for over-the-air (OTA) testing. At 79 GHz, the required sensitivity can be extremely high due to free-space loss and regulatory limits.
For broadband modulation tests, phase noise performance is critical. Poor phase noise can obscure the received signal, making it hard to distinguish between transmitted and received signals. The MS2840A spectrum analyzer, combined with the MA2808A mixer, delivers exceptional phase noise performance, meeting the stringent requirements of automotive radar systems.
**Summary**
As 5G and ADAS technologies continue to evolve, the demand for millimeter-wave systems is growing rapidly. To test these advanced systems, spectrum analyzers with external mixers must overcome image response issues, ensure sufficient sensitivity for OTA testing, and deliver excellent phase noise performance. The combination of the MS2840A spectrum analyzer and the MA2808A high-performance mixer offers an ideal solution for these demanding applications.