Hunting Noise Sources in Wireless Embedded Systems

When integrating a radio chip or module into a typical embedded system, a common task designers must face is tracking down and eliminating noise and spurious signals. Potential noise sources include switching power supplies, digital noise from other parts of the system, and external sources. Noise considerations also include any possible interference generated by the radio; an important consideration to avoid interfering with other radios as well as to meet radio agency requirements. In this application note, tips and techniques for hunting noise sources with the MDO4000 Series Mixed Domain Oscilloscope Series will be explored.