Application Notes

Noise Figure Measurements of Cryogenic LNAs Using the Cold Attenuator Technique:

September 02, 2026

This application note presents the cold attenuator technique for accurately measuring the noise figure of cryogenic low-noise amplifiers (LNAs). It covers the cryogenic test setup, de-embedding of cable and attenuator losses, calculation of effective hot and cold noise temperatures, and the use of Y-factor measurements to determine LNA noise temperature and noise figure.

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A Basic Introduction to Additive White Gaussian Noise

August 18, 2026

This application note introduces thermal noise and Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN), focusing on their characteristics and impact on RF system performance. It also explains practical AWGN generation methods and the use of calibrated noise sources, Excess Noise Ratio (ENR), and the Y-factor method to measure the noise figure of RF devices...

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