Frequency Tracking Characteristics of Split-Loop Phase-Locked Receivers

The excess time delay introduced by the incorporation of the intermediate frequency (IF) stage within the phase-locked loop (PLL) causes serious deterioration in the acquisition and tracking performance of the loop. The split-loop phase-locked system suggested by McGeehan and Sladen considerably reduces the effect of time delay on the acquisition and tracking performance of the loop. The frequency acquisition characteristics of the split-loop phase-locked receiver is investigated, and the effect of possible asymmetry in the arms of the loop on the acquisition range is examined. Closed-form approximate formulas are derived, and a comparison between split-, long-, and short-loop acquisition performance is presented.