April 7th, 2022 - What is a Phase Noise Analyzer?

In short: a Phase Noise Analyzer, or Spectrum Analyzer, is an RF instrument that is capable of measuring and simulating the phase noise inherent in communication systems. The short answer, however, definitely leaves several pertinent questions unanswered: 

The role that these instruments play in communication systems cannot be understated, so the answer to these questions is material to many designs.

What is Phase Noise? 

Phase noise encompasses the unpredictable shifts in the phase of a waveform, resulting in the presence of jitter. 

Phase noise, and by extension jitter, are unavoidable aspects of real-world instrumentation: due to the mechanical parts of a system, as well as fluctuations in environment and other factors, it is impossible to achieve perfect periodicity. But with ample and clear-cut analysis, the impact it has on a system can be understood and mitigated. 

In the field of RF, phase noise refers specifically to the random noise found within an oscillator.

The Role of a Phase Noise Analyzer 

Due to the specificity of phase noise, it is necessary for testing to be done in a heavily-controlled environment. For instance, all sources of external noise must be stripped away.

A PNT (Phase Noise Tester) has both the hardware and software requirements needed to discover and measure the existence of random signals within the phases of a communication system. On the hardware side, these units often have advanced components that enable utmost accuracy in detection and mitigate any interruptions to a full scan. On the software side, these units come with various complex calculations for a wide variety of testing environments, adding much-needed versatility. 

Once a system’s analysis is complete, RF engineers can use the resultant data to mitigate the problems caused by these fluctuations.

Why is this Important? 

Without PNTs and other units, phase noise would add an incomprehensible element of randomness to communication systems. Over time, these fluctuations would scale and degrade the quality of the network. Results could include higher rates of missed bits in long-range communication. Good phase noise performance prevents RF signal outputs from trending into other channels also, an issue that could have serious repercussions in a busy network environment. 

BNC has several courses related to the analysis and mitigation of phase noise, as well as PNTs available for sale or rent. Please see if one of these high-performance instruments is necessary for any future RF projects.