An Automated Precision Noise Figure Measurement System at 60 GHz

As part of a millimeter-wave development program at the National Bureau of Standards, a precision measurement method and system was devised to automatically measure the effective input noise temperature of 55-65-GHz receivers. Salient features of the system include a bolometric Y-factor measurement, a working "hot" noise source consisting of a waveguide argon gas tube mount developed at the National Bureau of Standards, and a minicomputer system controller operating in Basic. System design considerations and measurement uncertainties are discussed.