Load pull measurement techniques: architecture, accuracy, and applications

This paper focuses on challenges and requirements posed by future communication systems on load-pull measurements. In particular, we discuss the architecture of a state-of-the-art mixed-signal load pull measurement system which enables wideband impedance control with complex modulated signals. We also address some aspects related to dynamic-range improvement and describe a procedure for evaluating traceable uncertainty of power measurements as a function of the load impedance. We also present a few application examples showing how load-pull can support testing and development of devices and circuits of next-generation systems.