Streamlining RF mastery: Intuitive solutions from Aim-TTi

Introduction

Modern radio frequency (RF) components introduce several challenges to semiconductor assembly and test suppliers whose objective is to ensure that their products are assembled and tested to satisfy the product test specifications. As precision is crucial, adopting innovative practices by introducing sophisticated tools and techniques in RF testing has resulted in continuous improvement, revolutionized workflows, and enhanced efficiency.

Aim-TTi introduces the TGR2051,TGR2053, and TGR6000, their latest generation of RF signal generators with the existing TGR 1040. These powerhouses pack top-notch performance and intuitive touch controls into a compact, value-driven package. You can experience exceptional frequency accuracy, a wide signal amplitude range, and advanced modulation capabilities, making them ideal for development, testing, and service applications. Their advanced remote control allows seamless integration into automated systems.

Applications in RF testing

• Automated test equipment: Allows product testing of RF components, subsystems, and transceivers in the LAB.
• EMC radiated immunity testing: Perform preliminary EMC tests in-house with robust, affordable solutions.
• Medical devices: Allow various applications like tissue ablation and hyperthermia, generating essential signals for MRI machines and even COVID-19 disinfection.
• Telecom device development: Design and test mobile phones, base stations, and more.
• Electronics manufacturing: Guarantee product quality and compliance with industry standards.
• Equipment testing and calibration: Verify the performance of amplifiers, filters, and receivers.
• Aerospace and defense: Ensure accuracy and functionality of radar, communication, and electronic warfare systems.
• Communication system design: Test and enhance the performance of cellular networks, radar, satellite, and electronic warfare systems in the field.

Understanding RF signal and function generators with Aim TTI

The key parameters and specifications relevant to RF signal generators are essential tools in various technical applications. A summarized breakdown is as follows:

• Frequency Range: RF Signal generators cover a range of frequencies (normally 150KHz to 6GHz), often extending into the microwave band. The frequency band selected for testing must align with the testing requirements, considering potential out-of-band signals when testing devices like radio receivers.
• Harmonics and Spurious Signals: Signal generators produce spurious signals, with harmonics being a common concern. While harmonics are typically high due to a lack of filtering, efforts are made to minimize other non-harmonically related spurious signals.
• Power Output: The power output of an RF signal generator is usually defined in dBm (decibels relative to one milliwatt). The maximum output level typically falls within 10 to 100 milliwatts.
• Power Accuracy: The signal generator output must be accurately understood for many test scenarios. The output level accuracy consists of the attenuator's relative accuracy and the amplifier's absolute accuracy.
• Phase Noise: Phase noise, a concern in synthesized signal generators, can affect measurement accuracy, especially in noise-sensitive applications. Phase noise levels are measured in dBc/Hz and vary with offset from the carrier frequency. The measured range is <-117dbc/>
• Accuracy in the Short and Long Term: The frequency accuracy of RF signal generators relies on the frequency standard used, considering factors like temperature stability, line voltage stability, and crystal aging, measured in parts per million (PPM).
• Modulation Formats Supported: Signal generators should support various modulation formats to simulate real-world signals accurately. Modulation capabilities include amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase shift keying (PSK), quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), CDMA, and OFDM.
• Test Equipment Calibration Interval: The calibration interval for signal generators is crucial, as it affects the cost of ownership. While the standard calibration interval can be a year, shorter intervals can be necessary for higher accuracy requirements.

Aim TTI offers a versatile range of RF signal generators. Here is a model-wise tabular presentation-

Innovative features and technologies

• TGR1040: Engineers will find the TGR1040 a budget-friendly RF signal generator when they seek a fundamental yet high-performance solution. It delivers exceptional stability across a wide amplitude range, characterized by low-phase noise and minimal signal leakage. The TGR1040 boasts flexible FM modulation capabilities and supports internal and external sources.

Key technical highlights and features:

• Cost-effective: Affordable solution for budget-conscious applications.
• High stability: Reliable signal generation with minimal drift.
• Wide amplitude range: Accommodates diverse test requirements.
• Low phase noise: Ensures signal purity and accuracy.
• Minimal leakage: Reduces interference and crosstalk.
• Flexible FM modulation: Internal or external source options for versatile testing.

Figure 1: TGR1040

• TGR2051 and TGR2053: - Aim-TTi TGR2051 and TGR2053 are considered as Next-Gen RF signal generators with frequency range 150 kHz to 1.5 GHz (TGR2051), 3 GHz (TGR2053) and amplitude range -127 dBm to +13 dBm.

Key technical highlights and features:

• Modulation: Internal/external AM, FM, PM, ASK, OOK, FSK, 3FSK, 4FSK, GFSK, MSK, GMSK, HMSK & PSK. Embedded NRZ patterns encompass square wave, 7, 9, 11 & 15-bit PRBS. Advanced digital modulation features include diverse filtering options: Gaussian, Raised Cosine, Root Raised Cosine, Half Sine, Grey Code, and Binary Encoding.
• SCPI compatibility: Effortlessly integrate TGR2050 into existing setups using universal commands with a programmable interface via USB, LAN (LXI), and GPIB (optional).
• IVI driver included: Control with popular applications like LabVIEW & Keysight VEE.
• Massive storage: Store 1000+ setups, sweeps, and modulation patterns for efficient recall.
• Touchscreen interface: Intuitive control for efficient operation with the 4.3-inch color LCD screen.
• Compact and lightweight: Space-saving design (2U 19”) for maximized benchtop efficiency
• Best-in-class value: Exceptional performance at a competitive price point.
• Enhanced stability and precision: Ideal for demanding development, test, and service applications.
• Unmatched signal integrity: Low phase noise and flexible modulation capabilities ensure accurate signal generation.

Figure 2: TGR2053

• TGR6000:- Engineers will find the TGR6000 a cost-effective solution with high-quality signal generation up to 6GHz. Although the device lacks built-in modulations, its rapid settling times allow fast-stepped sweeps. The level trim feature allows amplitude adjustment across frequencies to suit specific test setups, while the list sweep capability enables defining up to 1000 points of amplitude versus frequency.

• Frequency: Maxes out at 6GHz, perfect for basic carrier wave applications.
• Phase-stable and leak-proof: Clean signal integrity with low phase noise, leakage, and residual FM.
• Precision sweep control: Advanced stepped and list sweeps with flexible point control and triggering.
• Versatile sweeps: Linear/logarithmic frequency and amplitude sweeps with dwell times from 10ms to 10s.
• Customizable: User-defined lists, trigger events, and trim functions for fine-tuning your tests.
• Easy to use: Intuitive interface with direct frequency/level input and soft key control.
• Store and recall: Save 12 setups and 16 sweep lists for quick recall.
• Remote control: USB, RS-232, GPIB, and LAN connectivity for automated testing.
• Compact design: Half-rack size saves bench space with an optional rack mount kit.

Figure 3: TGR6000

Conclusion

The continuous use of innovative tools and methodologies in RF testing has significantly increased efficiency and accuracy in semiconductor assembly and testing. The Aim-TTi introduced the TGR series, including TGR2051, TGR2053, and TGR6000, representing a milestone in RF signal generator technology. These instruments provide superior frequency accuracy, wide signal amplitude ranges, and advanced modulation capabilities, satisfying the stringent demands of development, testing, and service applications. These generators seamlessly integrate into automated systems and provide precise calibration, allowing engineers across various industries to achieve optimal performance and reliability in their RF components and systems.