Anritsu has launched a solution capable of conducting an ex­tensive characterisation of differential noise figures of differential devices used in high speed wireless communication systems. The solution, which integrates a new differential noise figure option into the Anritsu Vector­Star vector network analysers (VNAs), allows research and design engineers to verify the receiver performance of low noise amplifiers and other devices used in the front end of 5G and microwave backhaul systems.

Further, the new differential noise figure option will enhance the two-port, single-ended noise figure measurement capability of the VectorStar and allow VNAs to measure three and four-port devices in single-ended, differential and common mode operation with a variety of processing options.

Measurement and analysis of both correlated and uncorrelated noise can be done with the new differential noise figure technique. The result is an elaborate characterisation of actual device performance for greater design confidence. Accuracy is further ensured by the extended range of network tools for VectorStar.

The MS4640B VectorStar VNAs have the broadest coverage in a single instrument, 70 kHz to 70 GHz. Coverage can be extended to 145 GHz and 1.1 THz in the case of broadband configurations.