• Differences Between GPS and BeiDou

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    GPS and BeiDou are both GNSS providing positioning, navigation, and timing services. GPS, by the US, launched first in 1978, is now globally used. It has 31 satellites for global cover, with specific services and accuracy for civilian and military. Its signal uses CDMA. BeiDou, developed by China, s... read more

  • Differences Between EDA Software ADS and HFSS

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    Advanced Design System (ADS) by Keysight and High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) by Ansys are leading EDA tools in RF and microwave engineering. ADS excels in RF circuit design with tools for schematic capture, layout, and system-level simulation, including some 3D EM capabilities. HFSS specia... read more

  • Why RF Engineers Need EM Simulation for Designing RF Circuits

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    Electromagnetic (EM) simulation is vital for RF engineers designing RF circuits. It accurately models complex geometries like 3D structures in RF circuits, capturing hard-to-predict effects. It optimizes performance by aiding impedance matching and component placement. Identifies parasitic effects a... read more

  • How to Choose the Right RF Capacitor for Designing a Crystal Filter

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    Choosing the right RF capacitor for a crystal filter requires considering multiple factors for optimal performance. These include capacitance value (based on target frequency and calculated using resonance formula), high Q factor (like NP0 ceramics for less energy loss), suitable voltage rating (wit... read more

  • How to Use a Smith Chart to Design an Amplifier

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    The Smith Chart serves as a potent tool for RF and microwave engineers in amplifier design. The process involves understanding its basics like impedance and reflection coefficient representation. Next, one must define the amplifier's input/output impedances and operating frequency. Then, steps such ... read more

  • Differences Between VCXO’s Resonator and VCO’s Resonator

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    VCXOs and VCOs have different resonators. VCXOs use quartz crystals, offering high stability and low phase noise, suitable for precise frequency needs like in comms and timing. Their tuning range is limited. VCOs use LC circuits etc., providing wide tuning range for frequency agility in apps like FM... read more

  • Types of VCOs Used in Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs)

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    Voltage-Controlled Oscillators (VCOs) are crucial in Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs), providing variable frequency outputs that match a reference signal’s phase and frequency. Common types include LC oscillators for good phase noise performance, crystal oscillators for extreme stability, ring oscillators ... read more

  • What is a DRO?

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    A Dielectric Resonator Oscillator (DRO) is an electronic oscillator that generates microwave frequency signals using a dielectric resonator, typically made of ceramic materials, to stabilize the frequency. DROs are highly valued for their frequency stability and low phase noise, making them essentia... read more

  • Why OCXOs Need an Oven

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    OCXOs need an oven to keep the crystal at a constant, elevated temperature. This is vital for temperature stability, reducing frequency drift and enhancing accuracy, as well as for performance enhancement in precision applications like GPS and telecom. Different oven types such as Single, Double, Th... read more

  • How to Correctly Test OCXO’s Phase Noise

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    Testing the phase noise of an Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator (OCXO) is crucial for ensuring its performance and reliability. The process involves setting up a high-quality phase noise analyzer, maintaining a stable power supply, and controlling the temperature. Measurements should be taken in an... read more

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