Pulsed Frequency Measurements with Advanced RF Counters
Application Notes
In radar and electronic warfare (EW) equipment design, accurate characterization of pulsed RF/ microwave signals is critical for verifying the design is working correctly and that it meets speciications. Common measurements made on pulsed signals are shown in Figure 1. They include pulse width (PW), pulse repetition rate (PRF), pulse repetition interval (PRI), pulse frequency (PF), pulse rise/fall time, and signal power.
Recently, advanced counters with pulsed RF/microwave measurement capabilities have re-emerged in the test and measurement market. These advanced counters typically can make PF, PW, PRF, and PRI measurements on pulsed RF/microwave signals. In this measurement brief, we will explore:
- Advantages and disadvantages of using a counter to make pulsed RF/microwave measurements
- Creating a low-cost comprehensive pulsed RF/microwave measurement solution using a counter
- Making pulsed frequency measurements using a counter on swept or chirped signals