Non-linear dynamic modelling of broad-band GHz-field Analogue-to-Digital acquisition channels

In this paper the Discrete-Time Convolution Model behavioural approach is proposed for the characterization/empirical modelling of high-performance broad-band A/D channels or stand-alone A/D converters, designed for the acquisition of signals up to the field of microwaves. Thanks to its inherent capability of separately describing all the non-idealities of different nature within the channel, and in particular the non-linear dynamic effects, the method is particularly suitable for the A/D channels implemented in modern high-frequency instrumentation and RF receiver architectures. In this framework, the experimental procedures devoted to the extraction of model parameters have been re-designed in order to allow for the application of the approach without the need for higher-performance reference A/D devices. Experimental results are provided, which validate the analytical/functional formulation of the method and the related measurement procedures/set-ups, for a state-of-the-art, 1-GHz analogue bandwidth 1-GSa/s A/D acquisition channel space-qualified for satellite radar applications.