Optimizing On-Wafer Noise Figure Measurements up to 67 GHz

Two techniques are commonly used to measure NF: the Y-factor method and the cold-source method. The Y-factor or hot/ cold-source method is the predominant approach and is most commonly implemented with noise-figure analyzers and spectrum analyzer-based solutions. In contrast, the cold-source method is usually performed using vector network analyzers (VNAs), which provide magnitude and phase information. As a result, the cold-source technique makes it possible to achieve much greater accuracy in NF measurements.