Understanding Pulsed Phase Noise Measurements

One of the key parameters that limits system performance for communication and radar systems is phase noise. As systems engineers develop new and more advanced RF systems, phase noise of oscillators and transmitters can no longer be overlooked. This application note will focus on phase noise measurements for pulsed RF carriers such as those used for radar systems. The paper will address some of the physical limitations relating to pulsed phase noise measurement and introduce the capabilities of the new Rohde & Schwarz FSWP phase noise analyzer.