Power control for S-parameters and large signal characterization at (sub)-mmWave frequencies

In this contribution we present a frequency scalable approach to achieve an accurate power control for levelled s-parameters and large signal characterization of devices working at millimeter and sub-millimeter waves. The method is based on a software-aided control loop that mimics the behavior of an automatic level control system, allowing to dynamically adjust the power delivered to the DUT at every frequency. The proposed hardware configuration employs only the VNA mm-wave extender modules, bypassing the need of expensive add-on test-sets. Measurement results are provided in WR-10, WR-05 and WR-03 waveguide bands to show the applicability of the method at different frequencies and different hardware setups (i.e., VNA extender modules from different vendors). The power control at the system ports and the capabilities of the proposed setup for power controlled S-parameters and large signal measurements are reported.