FILTER TEST PROCEDURE

EQUIPMENT LIST:

A Network Analyzer with a 50Ω test set.

Select the frequency band to be used and calibrate the network analyzer in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Consider calibrating the network analyzer for both pass band and rejection bands and storing the calibrations prior to taking the measurements.

Using amplitude and phase matched 50Ω test cables with the analyzer you may now connect the filter between the cables and take the measurements.

Filters need to be terminated externally in their characteristic termination±10%. When testing filters do not introduce reactive devices such as transformers, splitters, combiners or other reactive devices as these will affect the filter performance.

Optional Test Equipment List:

A signal generator, two volt meters with dB scales and a frequency counter. When using this test equipment it is important to use one of the voltmeters to monitor the output of the signal generator as the resistive terminations may load the generator and the output voltage will need to be reset prior to making measurements.

TEST PROCEDURE:

Band Pass Filters:

Using suggested test equipment measure from the low frequency pass band edge to the high frequency pas band edge. Both the return loss and amplitude response may be tested. Measure the rejection bands from the lower to the upper rejection band. Please refer to the enclosed filter specifications when making these measurements. The stop band extends to 10*F -3dBc for low frequency filters and less for higher frequency filters. Please refer to your specification for this high frequency.

Band Rejection Filters:

The procedure is the same as it is for Band Pass Filters.

Low Pass Filters:

Passive Low pass filters pass from DC to a specified pass band edge. The attenuation at the pass band edge is -3dBc unless otherwise stated on the specification page(s).

The pass band reference frequency is located at 0.1*F -3dBc

The stop band extends to 10*F -3dBc for low frequency filters and less for higher frequency filters. Please refer to your specification for this frequency.

High Pass Filters:

Passive High Pass Filters pass from F -3dBc *10 typically for most low frequency types. Higher frequency high pass filters will have a limited pass band. Please refer to the specification page for your filter(s).

The rejection band extends from the DC to the initial rejection frequency as listed on the specifications page.