PDN Probes
16
Low Impedance PDN Power Integrity Testing
(VRTS3 Board)
This sample test measures the output impedance and stability of an LDO using a 2-port
probe and a common mode transformer.
The J2102B common mode transformer is essential here, as there is an instrument ground
loop which would otherwise distort the low frequency data. Therefore, it is generally
required for VNA 2-port measurements.
Figure 10: The 2-port probe setup for a 2-port impedance/stability measurement of an LDO.
In this case, NISM software is also used to convert the impedance measurement to phase
margin (stability). The J2102B common mode transformer is used to break the instrument
ground loop that impacts low frequency data.