Executive Summary
This document describes test techniques for measuring RF thermal noise and RF “noise-like” intermodulation with respect to desired RF signals.
This document is identical to SCTE 17 2018 except for informative components which may have been updated such as the title page, NOTICE text, headers and footers. No normative changes have been made to this document.
Scope
This procedure defines the measurement procedure for determining the ratio of carrier to thermal noise and “noise-like” interference for broadband telecommunications system components. The test involves measuring the noise levels, or the combined noise plus “noise-like” intermodulation product levels, relative to the carrier level of a CW signal. The noise contribution of the test equipment is also measured to allow for correction of readings near the test equipment noise floor. ANSI/SCTE 96 2013, Cable Telecommunications Testing Guidelines, has additional definitions common to this and other SCTE test procedures.
Benefits
The use of these techniques will provide a standardized method to predict the effect of RF thermal noise and “noise like” intermodulation on system performance. It will also provide a standard means of making comparisons between the performance of various types of RF equipment.
Intended Audience
The intended audience contains both system operators and RF equipment manufacturers.