the r&s®smw-b90 phase coherence option allows the use of a common local oscillator (lo) for multiple rf signals, making it possible to generate phase-coherent rf carriers. frequencies from 200 mhz to 6 ghz can be coupled. for an r&s®smw200a vector signal generator that is configured as a dual-path instrument with two internal rf signal generators, the r&s®smw-b90 option ensures a stable relative phase between the two rf outputs. additionally, the r&s®smw-b90 hardware option has a lo in and lo out connector. the lo signal that is generated inside one signal generator can be distributed to further instruments via these connectors.
the r&s®smw-b90 option addresses all applications where a precise phase relationship between two or more rf signals is required, e.g.:
- beamforming as used in digital communications standards (e.g. wlan, wimax™)
- performance evaluation of algorithms used in mimo receivers for determining whether they are able to compensate defined phase differences between the antennas
- design of phased array antennas
- test of modules that use differential rf (e.g. differential amplifiers)