ABSTRACT: Satellite communication systems that utilize higher order modulation schemes, such as those used in 5G applications, increase bit rate/bandwidth. While data rates increase, so does the network’s vulnerability to symbol errors due to phase noise. The local oscillators (LO) in satellite communications systems can be the cause of excessive phase noise if the system is experiencing poor performance/symbol errors. The Holzworth HA7062D Real-Time Phase Noise Analyzer is an ideal solution for evaluating the absolute phase noise of a system’s LOs.