Inductor's output power measurement using spectrum analyzer

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on measuring the output power of an inductor using a spectrum analyzer, specifically within the frequency range of 100 MHz to 5 GHz. The user observed an increase in output power from -60 dBm at 100 MHz to -30 dBm at 5 GHz, indicating a potential shift in behavior due to parasitic capacitance. Expert advice suggests that the inductor's parasitic capacitance may cause it to behave more like a capacitor at high frequencies, and recommends sweeping to lower frequencies to identify the first resonant peak.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of inductor design and fabrication processes, including lithography and lift-off.
  • Familiarity with spectrum analyzers and their measurement capabilities.
  • Knowledge of RF (radio frequency) principles, particularly regarding impedance and frequency response.
  • Experience with analyzing parasitic components in high-frequency circuits.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of parasitic capacitance on inductor performance at high frequencies.
  • Learn about self-resonant frequency and how it affects inductive components.
  • Explore techniques for measuring and characterizing inductors using spectrum analyzers.
  • Investigate methods for optimizing inductor design to minimize parasitic effects.
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, RF designers, and anyone involved in high-frequency circuit design and analysis will benefit from this discussion.

JGOH
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Hello!

I have a question about measurement of spectrum analyzer.
I made some inductor by lithography, evaporator, and lift-off process, and tried to measure using spectrum analyzer. (The probing was GSG type)
I swept the frequency from 100MHz to 5Ghz, and output power was monitored by spectrum analyzer. (Input was 0dBm)
Then, the output power increased by incresing the input frequency. (100Mhz -> -60dBm, 1GHz -> -40dBm, 5GHz -> -30dBm...)

Does this passive element play a role by inductor? (or is it capacitor?)

Thank you.
 
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Hi,
Would you give more details on the inductor? How big it is, how many turns? Inductors parasitic capacity at very high frequency can make it behave more like capacitor than inductor
 
I expect you are above the self-resonant frequency of the inductor/test system. Sweep lower and try to find the first resonant peak.
If there is none detectable, the the parasitic capacitance is predominating.

Also, you are testing with a 50ohm (probably) analyzer input. Compute how your expected inductance might behave with that load.
 

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