Gain Across a Band on PNA: Is it an FFT?

In summary, the conversation discusses the difference between using a PNA (Precision Network Analyzer) and an FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) to analyze gain across a band. The person being interviewed for a position was mistaken for using an FFT when talking about gain in k-band, but the interviewer was insistent on using the term. The conversation also delves into the physical reality of the Fourier transform and how it is often confused with the FFT algorithm.
  • #1
lennybogzy
94
0
Does a PNA show FFT

If I'm looking at gain across a band on a PNA could one say that I'm looking at an FFT or is that complete nonsense?
 
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  • #2
Older instruments performed a frequency sweep and recorded the response at each frequency. To use an FFT you would need to excite with a delta function, measure the impulse response, and perform the transform. I don't think that even modern PNA's do that...
 
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  • #3
No, that is not how a VNA works (PNA is an Agilent acronym, I have no idea what the P stands for). A VNA basically performs a frequency sweep using a syntheziser and then records the response using a mixer where the RF comes from the DUT ans the LO comes from the syntheziser (there are actually several mixers involved in the detection, since a VNA measures the vector response).

There are FFT analyzers out there (and they are called FFT analysers, do distinguish them from spectrum analyzers, scalar analyzers and VNAs), but they are limited to relatively low frequencies (a few hundred kHz, the ones I use go upp to 100 kHz).

There are a few good Application notes on the Agilient website which described how their PNAs work in some detail.
 
  • #4
Being interviewed for a position: the guy interviewing me cut me off with something like "so you were looking at an FFT" (I was talking about gain in k-band). I started to correct him but he was adamant about me "looking at an FFT" so I kinda let it go.
 
  • #5
Well you are looking at an FT it's not an FFT, but people like the word FFT too much these days.
 
  • #6
Come again? FT - Fourier transform? What do you mean?

My understanding is that I'm looking at something directly measured, rather than 'computed' in that sense
 
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  • #7
You are right, butl the Fourier transform does have physical reality in a lot of cases. If you add two batteries in series the output voltage is the sum of the voltages. You would still call it a sum even if it is not computed.
A frequency vs. power spectrum represents the absolute value squared of the signal in frequency space. There are examples of naturally occurring Fourier transforms for example in optics.
The FFT on the other hand is actually a "Fast Fourier Transform" a special algorithm to get a frequency spectrum. But people mix their words all the time and call any Fourier transform an FFT even if a DCT (a similar algorithm) was calculated or if the spectrum does not have a computational origin at all.
 

1. What is "Gain Across a Band" on a PNA?

"Gain Across a Band" refers to the measurement of gain or amplification within a specified frequency range on a PNA (Parameter Network Analyzer). The PNA measures the gain as a function of frequency and displays it as a graph.

2. What is an FFT?

FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) is a mathematical algorithm used to convert a signal from its original domain (usually time or space) to a representation in the frequency domain. In the context of "Gain Across a Band" on a PNA, an FFT is used to analyze the gain measurements at different frequencies.

3. How is "Gain Across a Band" measured on a PNA?

To measure "Gain Across a Band" on a PNA, the device under test (DUT) is connected to the PNA and a stimulus signal is applied. The PNA then measures the gain at different frequencies using an FFT and displays the results on a graph.

4. What is the purpose of measuring "Gain Across a Band" on a PNA?

The measurement of "Gain Across a Band" on a PNA is useful for characterizing the performance of a device, such as an amplifier or filter, over a range of frequencies. It allows for the identification of any frequency-dependent gain variations and can aid in troubleshooting and optimizing the device's performance.

5. Are there any limitations to using an FFT for measuring "Gain Across a Band" on a PNA?

While FFT is a commonly used and efficient method for analyzing gain across a band on a PNA, it does have some limitations. These include potential accuracy errors due to spectral leakage and aliasing, and the inability to measure non-periodic signals. It is important to understand these limitations and use proper techniques to minimize their impact on the measurement results.

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