Introduction to RF Testing Fundamentals and RF Test Architecture – RAHRF412

This course (Introduction to RF Testing and Fundamentals and RF architecture) is meant for engineers and technicians which are new to an RF environment. In this course you’ll be able to learn about the most common equipment and techniques used to test RF components. We’ll also explain the most common types of measurements, from basic to advanced, in order for you to become a great RF engineer in no time.

We’ll start chapter 1 talking about the differences between a laboratory and factory environment. It’s important for you to learn about the characteristics of each testing environment so you’re prepared to do testing, purchase equipment or do automation.

In chapter 2 we’ll explain one of the most important subjects in RF: losses and reference plane. It is from years of experience where we can say that calculating losses incorrectly is the most common root cause of bad measurements. In these videos you’ll learn why measuring loss and defining your reference plane can help you get the most accurate measurements.

In chapter 3 and 4 we’ll talk about the most common types of equipment and components used in test setups. The idea is for you to become familiar with these components and know how to include them into your setup. We’ll cover basic equipment such as power meters, signal generators and spectrum analyzers. For the components we’ll see attenuators, couplers, filters and more.

To wrap it all up, in chapter 5 we’ll explain a great variety of measurements done in an RF environment. You’ll learn the most common measurements that will help you when testing filters, antennas, transmitters, receivers or many other devices. This chapter includes measurements such as insertion loss, P1dB, EVM, receiver sensitivity level and more.

What You’ll Learn:

We’ll take you through a comprehensive journey:

Chapter 1: Types of Testing

We’ll commence our exploration by distinguishing between laboratory and factory environments. Understanding the unique characteristics of each testing environment is crucial as it prepares you for conducting tests, making informed equipment purchases, and implementing automation effectively.

Chapter 2: RF Losses

In Chapter 2, we’ll delve into one of the fundamental aspects of RF: losses and the concept of a reference plane. Through years of experience, we’ve learned that miscalculating losses is a common cause of inaccurate measurements. These videos will illuminate the significance of measuring loss accurately and defining your reference plane, ultimately enabling you to achieve the most precise measurements.

Chapters 3 and 4: RF Components for Testing

In these chapters, we’ll introduce you to the essential equipment and components commonly used in RF test setups. Our goal is to familiarize you with these components and equip you with the knowledge to seamlessly integrate them into your testing setup. We’ll cover foundational equipment such as power meters, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers. Additionally, you’ll gain insights into key components such as attenuators, couplers, filters, and more.

Chapter 5: RF Test Measurements

To round off the course, Chapter 5 will be dedicated to exploring a diverse range of measurements conducted in an RF environment. You’ll become proficient in the most common measurements essential for testing filters, antennas, transmitters, receivers, and various other RF devices. This chapter includes critical measurements like insertion loss, P1dB, EVM, receiver sensitivity level, and more.

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Instructor Biography

The instructor of this course is Eduardo Malfavaun Gonzalez

Eduardo Malfavaun Gonzalez

Eduardo is a seasoned RF Design Engineer with extensive experience in RF Power Amplifiers, cellular designs (2G up to 5G), GNSS, and Wi-Fi products. His journey in the RF field began at Apple and Skyworks Solutions, where he honed his skills as an RF maintenance engineer, specializing in ATEs used for RF PAs, LNAs, and switches testing.

Driven by a passion for RF design, Eduardo pursued his Master’s degree with a focus on RF PA design and Load Pull. During his tenure at CICESE (a research center in Mexico), he contributed to the development of Load Pull systems used for PA designs.

Today, Eduardo serves as a valuable asset at Continental Automotive, where he plays a key role in the development of wireless products featuring cellular, Wi-Fi, GNSS, and V2X capabilities.