Implementing IEEE 1641 - amplifier characterisation on multiple test platforms

A fourth in a series of studies, sponsored by the UK MoD, explores gain and 1 dB compression point, for a mobile communications device, through IEEE Std. 164trade Signal & Test Definition . The study adds depth to the use of load, Power and Physical types, along with methods for capability description of test resources, through IEEE ATML . In addition, comparison is made with previous studies, in particular that into RF stimulus & measurement . The implementation platform consists of Rohde & Schwarz´s Vector Signal Generator, Spectrum Analyser & Vector Network Analyser. The tests are defined using the Standard´s Test Signal Framework (TSF); use is made of the Standard´s Signal Modelling Language to validate the behaviour of the test signals; IEEE ATML Test Station is used to describe the mapping onto the test resources; an XML document is written to describe the mapping to the test resource IVI drivers; and, an IEEE 1641 defined COM interface is used access these documents. By producing a test program that conforms to the IEEE 1641 defined interfaces, it is shown that the defined tests can be validated, translated to the test platform´s native IVI and executed, all using the same source.