Large-signal network analysis

TLDR

Large‑signal network analysis (LSNA) is a nascent measurement science with a small but rapidly growing community that could transform microwave measurement. The article aims to inspire readers to join the LSNA community and contribute to its growth.

Abstract

According to Mike McKinley of Georgia Tech, it's "the holy grail of microwave instrumentation and measurements," it's "a new measurement science" according to Don DeGroot of Connected Community Networks and "an enabling path to taking nonlinear models to a higher level of fidelity and value" says Larry Dunleavy of Modelithics. I prefer to call it large-signal network analysis (LSNA). Today, LSNA is undoubtedly still in its infancy. A small community knows about the theoretical concepts, and a happy few have access to LSNA hardware. This community is growing rapidly, however, and I have no doubt that the people of this community will soon revolutionize the microwave measurement business as profoundly as S-parameter technology did in the 1980s. I hope with this article to inspire you to join this rapidly growing LSNA community that is improving microwave measurements and is on its way to building a multimillion dollar business.