Accurate impedance measurement is fundamental to modeling electronic components and testing the stability and impedance of power systems. 1-port impedance testing is a widely used method for evaluating the impedance characteristics of individual components or network ports. This article explores the essentials of 1-port impedance testing and how Picotest products, specifically the P2105A, P2104A, J2154A, and NISM software, provide robust solutions to support this testing method.
Understanding 1-Port Impedance Testing
1-port impedance testing, also known as reflection measurement, involves measuring the impedance at a single port of a device under test (DUT). This method is particularly useful for characterizing passive components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors, as well as power supply output impedance. The setup and calibrate making this an easy measurement to perform.
Key Picotest Products for 1-Port Impedance Testing
P2105A 1-Port Low Noise TDR – Ripple Browser Probe
The P2105A is a high-performance 1-port low noise TDR probe designed for precise high bandwidth applications, especially in Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR).
- 15GHz Bandwidth: Single-ended probe suitable for all TDR applications.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with the Picotest J2154A PerfectPulse TDR and other 50 Ohm instruments.
- Fixed Pitches: Available in multiple fixed pitches: 20, 31, 40, 50, 60, 70, 100 mils, or GSG SMA.
- Ease of Use: Handheld browser style for repeatable and easy probing; handle design fits most probe holders.
- Design: Slim, low-profile housing for comfort and visibility.
P2104A 1-Port Transmission Line PDN Probe
The P2104A is a high-bandwidth transmission line probe optimized for power distribution network (PDN) testing and signal integrity.
- High Bandwidth: Greater than 6 GHz uncorrected; usable bandwidth for VNA with calibration is higher.
- Low Capacitance: Less than 1 pF input capacitance, typically 420 fF.
- Flat Frequency Response: Very flat frequency response with an impedance floor of approximately 100 milliohms.
- Multi-Rail Support: Supports browsing measurements on multiple rails for impedance, ripple, noise, TDT/TDR, 2-port impedance (using two P2104A probes), PCB resonances, clock jitter, and non-invasive stability.
- Options: Available in various attenuations and pin pitches, optimized for sensitivity and SNR. Integrated series resistor option available for extended measurement range, and integrated DC block available for sensitive AC ripple/noise measurements or to reduce DUT loading for impedance measurement.
Non-Invasive Stability Measurement (NISM) Software
The Non-Invasive Stability Measurement (NISM) software from Picotest facilitates stability analysis without invasive probing or modifications to the circuit. It is essential for analyzing the stability of power supplies and feedback loops effectively.
- Stability Analysis: Enables stability margin measurements of voltage references, voltage regulators, LDOs, switching amplifiers, POLs, op-amps, input filters, and all types of power converters through their output impedance.
- Compatibility: Brings unique stability measurement capabilities to Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz, and Copper Mountain vector network analyzers, as well as simulation tools like Keysight ADS and Cadence PSpice.
- Non-Invasive Testing: Allows for stability analysis without disrupting the circuit.
- Comprehensive Metrics: Provides detailed metrics to assess the stability and performance of the network.
- User-Friendly: Offers an intuitive interface for ease of use and efficient data analysis.
Integrating Picotest Products for Effective 1-Port Impedance Testing
Combining the P2105A, P2104A, and NISM software creates a powerful and versatile 1-port impedance testing setup. Here’s how these products work together:
- Precision Probing with P2105A:
- The P2105A probe is used to connect to the DUT, providing a high-accuracy interface for impedance measurement in TDR applications.
- Enhanced Measurement with P2104A:
- The J2154A TDR captures precise reflection data, compatible with both the P2104A and P2105A probes, ensuring accurate impedance measurement.
- Stability Analysis with NISM Software:
- The NISM software analyzes the collected impedance data to provide detailed stability metrics, facilitating comprehensive stability analysis without invasive modifications.
Applications of 1-Port Impedance Testing
The integrated use of Picotest products in 1-port impedance testing is particularly beneficial for:
- Component Characterization: Accurately measuring the impedance of individual components such as resistors, capacitors, and inductors.
- Network Analysis: Evaluating the impedance characteristics of network ports and interfaces.
- Quality Control: Ensuring that components and networks meet specified impedance criteria for optimal performance.
- Power Integrity and Signal Integrity: Supporting detailed analysis for power electronics and signal integrity applications.
Conclusion
1-port impedance testing is a useful method for evaluating the impedance characteristics of electronic components and networks. Picotest’s P2105A 1-Port Low Noise TDR Ripple Browser Probe, P2104A 1-Port Transmission Line PDN Probe, J2154A PerfectPulse® Differential TDR, and NISM software provide a comprehensive and effective solution for this testing method. By combining precision probing, signal acquisition, enhanced measurement capabilities, and non-invasive stability analysis, these products enable electronic engineers to achieve accurate and reliable impedance measurements, ensuring the performance and stability of their systems.