A new technique for decreasing the characterization time of passive load-pull tuners to maximize measurement throughput

This paper presents a technique for increasing the flexibility and the point density of passive load-pull tuner characterization coverage from a reduced measurement collection cycle. Interpolation methods are used to enhance the resolution of available tuner positions whilst greatly reducing the time required for data collection prior to useful load-pull measurement. Results are presented to demonstrate validation of the method, showing that the mathematical accuracy in the predicted tuner S-parameters is greater than the reported physical reproducibility of the tuners. The impact of the new technique on characterization time is demonstrated to yield a time saving of 80% - significantly increasing potential measurement throughput.