Measurement of steady-state and transient harmonics caused by TVS

This paper discusses RF harmonic distortion created by ESD protection diodes. Different measurement topologies are analyzed with a focus on measurement error. Two improvements are presented. Besides the steady-state harmonics, measurement data of transient harmonics are presented. They show that after the initial turn-on of an RF signal, the harmonics might be significantly stronger than after they settled to their steady-state value. Finally, the impact of the recovery time is analyzed.