The up converter - a critical synthetic instrument technology

This paper provides a brief overview of the characteristics of RF/Microwave frequency Translation Devices and associated Frequency Synthesis technologies which are commonly employed to implement their functionality. The paper then briefly reviews the concept of Synthetic Instruments (SI) and the role of the Up Converter in the context of the SI paradigm The authors then characterise and compare traditional approaches to RF/MW stimulus generation & modulation vs. a modern day Up Converter/Frequency Synthesizer architecture employing a textile modulation capability and provide insight on the need for a new breed of frequency translation device: The Synthesized Up Converter (SUC). The authors also address the importance for such frequency Translation Devices to embrace the emerging digital modulation paradigm in order to satisfy both current and future SI user needs in support of the Defense, Signal Intelligence, and Telecom communities. The paper then introduces the reader to some critical Synthesized Up Converter functions & specifications that should be considered when satisfying a broad array of RF/Microwave CW said modulation user needs. The paper concludes with a summary statement by the authors about this critical Synthetic Instrument technology.