In this video, Subbaiah Pemmaiah reviews what is included in the SMD Test Solution and how to best use the features of the software to test SMD components. SMD Test Solution is a full kit hardware and software solution for manual, non-destructive, characterization of 0402 components. SMD Test uses fixtures with known topology in the 100 kHz to 20 GHz frequency range to make metrologically accurate measurements for discreet resistors, capacitors, or inductors under real-life installation conditions. The test doesn’t require soldering of components to make measurements, which saves time and is non-destructive. It is useful for design and test of components used in 5G communications and smart IoT devices. The solution allows for testing up to 20 GHz – an industry first! The software for SMD Test Solution is user friendly and easy to use and create reports. SMD Test Solution is compatible with CMT’s 2-port 20 GHz Cobalt vector network analyzers.

Another component measurement solution from Copper Mountain Technologies is the Automatic Fixture Removal (AFR) plugin. It addresses the task of de-embedding with comprehensive methods tailored to specific fixture properties. Three methods are available for measurements to support 2xThru fixture configurations: time-gating, filtering, and bisect. This plugin can be used with any 2- or 4-port CMT VNA. AFR plugin addresses the broad task of de-embedding with comprehensive methods, tailored to specific fixture properties: it moves calibration plane toward hard to access components and guides the de-embedding process. The plugin supports fixtures with a variety of properties. AFR can characterize a wide range of components and is easy and intuitive to use. Learn more about the Automatic Fixture Removal plugin for CMT  vector network analyzers here.