In lesson 7, Steve sets the output level of the BODE100 to +13dBm, which I believe is the max. This was done to maximise SNR.
While I understand that this would minimise quantisation noise from a DDS, isn't it also common for an amplifier to incur worse non-linear distortion when driven at its max level, then at its mid-range level?
Best regards,
- Brendan
This is true. Again, reduce the signal level to see if the results change. At 59 Ohm connections, there isn't so much current, so for power supplies this isn't generally an issue. For LNA's, oscillators and PLL's (for example) this is a good point.