This option allows users to set calibrated, arbitrary phase differences between two signal sources. The sources can be the analyzers internal sources or external signal generators routed through the analyzers test set. The phase difference can be fixed, or swept between two specified phase values. Option 088 also controls the relative power level between the sources using the receiver-leveling feature.
Option 088 is useful for two applications. The first is for active-load control, where the analyzer provides a precise, electronically settable impedance to the output port of a device, while gain and output power are measured. This capability can be combined with external load-pull software to create traditional load-pull power contours. The second application is to provide a pair of phase controlled sources for differential, quadrature, or arbitrary phase-off set signals at a fixed or swept frequency. Typically in this case, another instrument, receiver, or detector would be used to measure the response of the DUT. Not available with PNA Option 200.