Abstract: A 1-port tunable frequency discriminator that is incorporated into a frequency lock loop (FLL) for providing an improved FLL having reduced phase noise and settling times is provided. The invented 1-port tunable delay line discriminator reduces the phase noise generated by VCO's to approximately 105 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz, to better than 120 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz. The invention additionally reduces post tuning drift to less than 10 kHz after one microsecond. A secondary feedback loop, such as a conventional phase lock loop, can be incorporated into the invented FLL for providing phase and frequency coherency. The invention is formed by coupling a voltage controlled oscillator source (VCO) to a microwave signal detector and to an open ended delay line. When a microwave signal generated by the VCO reaches an end of the open ended delay line, a majority of the signal is reflected back along the line.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting and measuring the values of radio frequency (RF) signals comprises two intermediate frequency (IF) channels having mixers fed by local oscillators (LO) with output frequencies having a predetermined frequency difference. The LO frequencies are selected to produce IFs from overlapping or coincident RF bands which are higher and lower, respectively, than the LO frequencies. The outputs of the mixers are measured in identical frequency discriminators, respectively, and the outputs of the discriminators are compared by logic circuits which determine the presence of signals in either or both of the channels and the value of the corresponding RF signal. This receiver eliminates the need for an RF preselector for the superheterodyne process and thereby broadens the RF bandwidth receiving capability of the system.