Abstract: System and method for implementing a Vector Network Power Meter (VNPM) as a new class of electronic test instrument that uses a novel topology based upon a reflectometer to combine the functionality of a Power Meter with that of a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The VNPM overcomes application limitations of the two existing classes of test instruments, including parallel and simultaneous measurement capability, in-circuit operation, and improved accuracy and repeatability by eliminating the calibration of interconnecting cabling. Also provided are alternate implementations of a correlator for the reflectometer which reduce the size and complexity of the correlator while extending its frequency range without limit.

Abstract: A waveform generator and a signal analyzer are respectively provided in electrical communication with an input transducer and an output transducer capable of conversion between electrical and acoustic signals, and in mechanical communication with a part. A processor coupled with the waveform generator and signal analyzer receives a set of parameters defining a frequency scan from which it determines a number of frequency sweeps to be performed by the waveform generator. Each of the frequency sweeps has a number of frequencies less than a maximum capacity of the waveform generator, and for each frequency sweep, the processor instructs the waveform generator to excite the input transducer and synchronously receiving a response signal with the signal analyzer at multiple frequencies.

Abstract: System and method for implementing a Vector Network Power Meter (VNPM) as a new class of electronic test instrument that uses a novel topology based upon a reflectometer to combine the functionality of a Power Meter with that of a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The VNPM overcomes application limitations of the two existing classes of test instruments, including parallel and simultaneous measurement capability, in-circuit operation, and improved accuracy and repeatability by eliminating the calibration of interconnecting cabling. Also provided are alternate implementations of a correlator for the reflectometer which reduce the size and complexity of the correlator while extending its frequency range without limit.

Abstract: A waveform generator and a signal analyzer are respectively provided in electrical communication with an input transducer and an output transducer capable of conversion between electrical and acoustic signals, and in mechanical communication with the part. A processor coupled with the waveform generator and signal analyzer receives a set of parameters defining a frequency scan from which it determines a number of frequency sweeps to be performed by the waveform generator. Each of the frequency sweeps has a number of frequencies less than a maximum capacity of the waveform generator, and for each frequency sweep, the processor instructs the waveform generator to excite the input transducer and synchronously receiving a response signal with the signal analyzer at multiple frequencies.