Solutions


Transceiver Radio Test		[ back ]
By Yang Yang, Software Engineer, Larson Automation and Wayne Larson, President, Larson Automation The Challenge Highly skilled technicians required 45 minutes to complete functional testing of complicated RF transceivers, complex product mix and expensive test equipment. RF testing requires control multiple instruments. Highly interactive GUI allows users to tune the tested unit as computer performs tests. The Solution An automated test system uses the GPIB to control instruments. Simple but functional GUI design allows user all the operations necessary to perform tests. Storing measurement parameters reduces operator mistakes. Test time is down to less than five minutes. Introduction The testing station with the deluxe rack contains the advanced design in both hardware and software. It performs transceiver tests including phase noise, mixer and tuning, IF flatness, RF attenuation range, RX and TX calibrations and etc. With introducing users to tune the tested unit during testing, the entire test cut down the testing time to 15-20 minutes with high accuracy. Retests can be performed by unskilled operators in less than five minutes.
System Description HP8763 Signal Generator HP8563 Spectrum Analyzer HPE4419 Power Meter with Power Sensor HP 6627 Power Supply XL 3120 Frequency counter Ascor Switch Box NI DAQ card NI GPIB card Cooling Fan Larson Automation Custom Fixture		Entire system contained in 64" tall rack saving 66% of space of traditional bench RF switching and custom electronics embedded in fixture to allow single connect for all testing

	Application Description It is highly configurable to support an engineering evaluation environment. Wherever possible test parameters, and instrument settings is made available to the user in order to provide a flexible test environment. It also customizes the wiring of the testing bench and assembles all the instruments into a movable fixture. It provides a good solution for time and space saving in manufacture testing. Software design is user friendly and multifunctional. It offers an easy way to control all the equipment.
Test Procedures Bias Power and Drain Current Test RX LO Frequency Test RX LO Phase Noise Test LNA Down Conversion and Image Rejection Test RSSI Alignment Test TX LO Frequency Test TX LO Phase Noise Test Mixer and Tuning Test TX Power Range Test IF Flatness Test TX Power Attenuator Range Test RX and TX Calibration Test
Larson Automation, Inc. Address: 960 Rincon Circle, San Jose, CA 95131 Tel: (408) 432-4800 Fax: (408) 432-4848 Email: info@larsonautomation.com