Articles | Volume 11
https://doi.org/10.5194/ars-11-1-2013
https://doi.org/10.5194/ars-11-1-2013
04 Jul 2013
 | 04 Jul 2013

Decreased noise figure measurement uncertainty in Y factor method

I. Gaspard

Abstract. Almost always noise figure is measured today by using a matched noise source delivering two different but known noise temperatures (Y factor method). In commercially available noise sources these temperatures are characterized by the excess noise ratio (ENR) value, describing the ratio of equivalent noise power when switched on related to the noise power of a resistor at a temperature of 290 K (switched off). For a typical ENR value of 5 dB that means a hot temperature Th=1207 K and a cold temperature Tc = 290 K.