Novel Design of Microwave Source

Miniaturisation and higher levels of functionality are the prerequisites of modern T&M instrumentation. This paper describes the approach adopted by IFR in the design of a broadband microwave source module with the above in mind. The key difference between this and the traditional approach is the integration of a large number of normally discrete components into one small block, the microwave circuitry being essentially all on a single substrate. The advantages of this approach and the problems in achieving the technical specification at the same time as the high level of integration, will be detailed. A comparison of weight, volume and cost is given for the two approaches.