Noise Figure testing and Noise Sources
Using the SSA5000-NF noise figure measurement toolkit and NSD28 accessory
Chris Armstrong
Last Update a year ago
The SSA5000A series spectrum analyzers have a SSA5000-NF option that enables noise figure measurements for RF devices. This uses the Y-factor method for noise figure measurements. To make that work, a noise source is required. SIGLENT offers a noise source controller which allows the SSA5000A to control the noise source on and off settings via USB:
To use this measurement function, engineers must have a 3rd party noise source that operates on +28V and is made to turn on when 28V is present and turn off when it is not. Typical noise source models that work in this way include the Keysight 346 family of noise sources. Those are compatible with this noise figure measurement toolkit.