Application Note: Amplifier EVM Characterization Using Aeroflex PXI

Amplifier circuits used in the transmission of vector modulated signals are required to provide acceptable Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) performance over a specified range of power levels and frequencies. Characterization of EVM performance is necessary to ensure proper operation of amplifier circuits used in digital communication applications. When performing amplifier EVM characterization, it may be necessary to make EVM measurements at a number of incremental power level steps and then verify that each measured value falls within a specified range. Graphical presentation of EVM versus output power makes it easy for the designer or test engineer to see the EVM performance of a particular device over a range of power levels.