Comb-Generator Characterization

Published

February 1, 2008

Author(s)

Howard C. Reader, Dylan Williams, Paul D. Hale, Tracy S. Clement

Abstract

We characterize a 50 GHz comb generator measured on a sampling oscilloscope. With careful control of the input power, input harmonics and comb generator temperature, we find the output spectrum to be stable to 0.1 dB and 0.5 degrees. We correct results for time-base imperfections before Fourier transforming data into the frequency domain. Thereafter we correct for mismatches, an in-line attenuator, and the complex frequency response of the oscilloscope?s sampler. We discuss the corrected comb generator voltage magnitude and phase delivered to an ideal 50 ? system. We use two sampling heads and report on the comb generator spectrum stability measured over a two week period. We also consider the effect of the recorded time windows, driving power levels, and operating temperatures.

Citation

IEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques

Volume

56

Pub Type

Journals

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.1109/TMTT.2007.914630

Local Download

Keywords

Comb generator stability, mismatch correction, sampling oscilloscope calibration

Citation

Reader, H. , Williams, D. , Hale, P. and Clement, T. (2008), Comb-Generator Characterization, IEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques, [online], https://doi.org/10.1109/TMTT.2007.914630, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=32685 (Accessed October 11, 2025)