A Novel Method for Characterizing RF Automated Tuners

A two-step method that avoids cumbersome and lengthy search procedures is described for efficiently calibrating automated load pull tuner systems. The calibration procedure is designed to ensure that the data points are homogeneously spread over the complete Smith chart covering all impedance conditions. The software package developed is adaptable to various types of automated tuners, is applicable to different measurement software systems e.g. Agilent VEE (Unix, Windows NT), Lab View, etc, and is useful in minimizing wear and tear on the tuners.