Optimal estimation of microwave parameters using the automatic network analyzers. General statement of the problem

The paper concerns with the statistical approach to optimal estimation of microwave parameters using modern automatic meters, which allows one to measure with higher accuracy. Moreover, the automatic network analyzers (ANA) themselves are considerably simpler in design and cheaper to manufacture.

The strategy for automatic measurement of parameters of microwave devices is formulated in general that consists both in represen-tation of the complex - microwave generator, measuring unit, and device under test - as a single system described by the state pa-rameter vector, and in the increase of the number of measuring probes in order to ensure the redundant system of ANA equations.

The strategy of optimal state parameter estimation of this single system is proposed. It consists in the solution of three interconnected problems, namely, the choice of the optimal estimation algorithm for state parameters - vector, the choice of the optimal system model, and the choice of the optimal composition of measurements. The solution of these problems added by the measurement error analysis enables to rise drastically the accuracy of measurements over the microwave band without increasing the ANA cost.