Overview of time domain measurement

Other topics about Time Domain Analysis

Overview

The E5071C Option 010 provides the time domain function, which is used to mathematically transform waveforms in the frequency domain that can be measured with a general network analyzer to waveforms in the time domain.

The following figure shows waveforms in the frequency domain and in the time domain when using the same cable. The waveform in the frequency domain shows ripples due to mismatches, but it is difficult to estimate their locations. On the other hand, from the waveform in the time domain, you can determine the locations and magnitudes of mismatches.

Comparison to Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) Measurement

The time domain function of the E5071C is similar to the time domain reflectometry (TDR) measurement in that it displays the response in the time domain.

In the TDR measurement, a pulse or step signal is inputted to the DUT and the change of the reflected wave over time is measured.

On the other hand, the time domain function of the E5071C changes the frequency of the input signal to the DUT, performs measurement in the frequency domain, and transforms the result to the response in the time domain using the inverse Fourier transform.

Time Domain Function of E5071C

The time domain function of the E5071C is divided into the following two types of functions. You can use them at the same time.

Transformation function

Transforms measurement data in the frequency domain to data in the time domain. For more information, refer to Transformation to time domain.

Gating function

Deletes unnecessary data in the time domain from original data in the time domain. For more information, refer to Deleting Unnecessary Data in Time Domain (gating).