# Measuring Output Impedance of an RF (HF/VHF) Active Circuit with Hobby-level Tools

Is there a simple (by simple, I mean a hobby friendly method that trades some accuracy for expense) method of measuring the "actual" output impedance of an active or "hot" RF (HF to VHF) circuit?

As an amateur radio enthusiast, I often find myself in a situation where I'd like to measure the actual output impedance of some amplifier or oscillator (type of amplifier). Right now, I have an oscillator operating in the low VHF region and I'd like to match its output to a mixer that has a well defined input impedance. But that's just one example, I've had plenty others in the past. I can calculate the output impedance theoretically, but it would be nice to confirm the theory with a practical measurement.

I have some hobby or entry grade tools to hand, including an oscilloscope and a NanoVNA. Is there a reasonably accurate measurement method using these tools? One that doesn't damage the measurement device (especially the VNA).

One I read somewhere that made some kind of sense was to match the output with a (passive) device that varied the resistance, inductance and capacitance (a type of complex load). You could use a power meter to find the match point. Then measure the input impedance of the device/load with a VNA and use the conjugate as the output impedance.

Sounds simple enough, but I'm guessing the devil is in the construction of the complex load. What other methods are there?

UPDATE: Since asking this on EE SE, I've solved my immediate problem by using the two measurement technique (wonderfully explained in this video by W2AEW). However, I believe this approach becomes less accurate at RF frequencies and I have a continuing interest in discovering a practical, simple and inexpensive solution - if it exists!?

• At HF and VHF, a simple matching network, like an L-, $\pi$, or T-section might effect the match, as indicated on an SWR meter. Then, using a spreadsheet or Smith chart program (e.g., SimSmith), the impedance looking into the matching network is easily calculated. The source impedance is the complex conjugate of this value; i.e., same (series) resistance and opposite (series) reactance. – Brian K1LI Jun 20 '20 at 8:58