Return Loss is used to characterize RF components and systems. The Return Loss indicates how well the system is matched by taking the ratio of the reflected signal to the incident signal, measuring the reflected power in dB. The 1-port Measurement data can also be displayed linearly as VSWR, or by using Line Sweep Tools, display the reflection coefficient.
Procedure
1. If a test port extension cable is to be used, connect it to the RF Out connector.
2. Press the Measurement main menu key and press the Return Loss submenu key.
3. Under the Freq/Dist main menu key, use the Start Freq and Stop Freq submenu keys to set the Start and Stop frequencies. Or enter a known signal standard by pressing Signal Standard submenu key followed by Select Standard (Figure: Signal Standards).
Signal Standards
4. Press the Start Cal key to perform a 1-port OSL calibration at the connector or at end of the extension cable. When the Calibration is finished, Cal Status On should be displayed in the upper left part of the display and the trace should be centered around 0 dB when the short or open is connected.
5. Connect the test port extension cable to the Device Under Test (DUT).
6. Refer to the Users Guide for saving trace measurements.
7. Press the Measurement main menu key and press the VSWR submenu key to view the match in VSWR.
