Frequency extension techniques for RF/microwave signal generation and measurement

Today\´s PXI based RF instrumentation has a range from a few kilohertz to approximately 3 GHz. There are, however, many requirements between 2.7 GHz and 6 GHz that can be covered economically using frequency extenders otherwise known as up converters and down converters. The paper will describe the measurements that can be made using the basic PXI RF signal analyzers and signal generators followed by some of the applications requiring frequency extension to 6 GHz. The various techniques available for up and down converters will be described along with the benefits and limitations of each method. The paper will conclude with a summary of this approach versus conventional "rack and stack"