Cover Feature: The use of Synthetic Instruments in Automatic Test Systems
Open architectures are based on commercial computer standards, which can change very rapidly. This can lead to a proliferation of hardware, which creates the very support problems that the use of open standards was meant to resolve. Also, the architectures are optimized for digital or low frequency analog signals and the implementation of high performance microwave tests can be technically very challenging. These issues are of particular concern in the military and aerospace arena where instrumentation has lifetimes in excess of 20 years. The use of synthetic instruments is seen as a way forward to address both of these issues.

Software may help RF ICs keep pace with Moore's Law

RFIC and MMIC developments include PLL verification, low power WiFi for handsets, new patents, and a milestone in LNA package size
A quantitative study by the Swiss Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) reveals ultra high-performance microwave antennas lead the way when it comes to controlling radio link interference and network densification.

Measuring Phase and Delay Errors Accurately in I/Q Modulators
This Application Note describes a method to accurately measure internal and external phase and timing errors for a high performance direct I/Q modulator.

Cost-effective multicore DSP chips target next generation wireless applications and break the 1$/GMAC barrier
The PC202, PC203 and PC205 are the first devices in the family, and are highly integrated, high-performance and extremely cost-effective DSPs.

RF instrument line lowers cost of test while at the same time offering high performance and speed
Combining high-performance, speed, flexibility, ease of use, and compact size, these instruments employ new approaches to test and measurement.

Developing a mode-locked, Class E power amplifier for RF applications
The Class E power amplifier can be turned into an efficient, tunedinput, tuned-output (TITO) oscillator with the addition of a tuned circuit at its gate.