Understand System Phase Noise Performance with Absolute and Additive Measurements

ABSTRACT: Many electronic devices are subject to short-term, random fluctuations in phase, referred to as phase noise. This phenomenon impacts signal quality in communications systems by increasing symbol errors or reduces sensitivity in radar systems by masking low power return signals. Engineers can use phase noise analyzers to measure the phase noise performance of an entire system or individual components. In this application note, learn how high-performance phase noise analyzers are particularly effective in quantifying the magnitude of phase noise with absolute and additive measurements.