The TTR500 Series USB Vector Network Analyzer is said to cost 40% less than alternatives capable of 122 dB dynamic range and 6 GHz frequency range. Developed by Tektronix, it also includes advanced features such as VectorVu-PC analysis software and a built-in bias tee for testing active devices.
The TTR500 Series features an easy-to-use user interface for common 
tasks. In addition, it has a compact form factor designed to eliminate the days of having to roll around a shared VNA.
“With its innovative architecture and disaggregated design, the TTR500 Series achieves the same level of performance as a benchtop VNA, but at 40 percent lower cost and one-seventh the size and weight of units with comparable performance,” said Jim McGillivary, general manager of RF and Component Solutions at Tektronix. “This new architecture also greatly reduces the number of components in the instrument which reduces complexity for better reliability compared to traditional benchtop VNAs.”
The TTR500 Series offers a full two-port, two-path S-parameter VNA for such applications as measuring passive/active components, antennas and matching networks, RF modules, test cables, adapters and more. Specifications include 100 kHz to 6 GHz frequency range, 122 dB dynamic range, less than 0.008 dB trace noise, and -50 to +7 dBm output power, and the instrument weighs less than five pounds.
An important feature of the TTR500 is the built-in bias tee. Accessible on both ports, the built-in bias tee allows for active devices, such as amplifiers, to be easily dc biased. The TTR500’s built-in bias tee allows for 0 to ± 24 V, and 0-to-200 mA on both ports for active devices.
The TTR500 is designed for operation with any Windows PC or laptop and the VectorVu-PC software delivers a traditional look and feel for controlling and calibrating the instrument. It offers full point-and-click usability and PC-based networking for saving and sharing files. For automated test systems in design or manufacturing, VectorVu-PC offers programmatic support for SCPI commands, including command compatibility with common legacy VNAs for easy integration into existing test systems. In addition, the software offers an offline mode for data analysis with an output file format compatible with common EDA simulation tools.
The TTR500 Series is available with accessories that include a carrying case, rack mount kits, rugged phase-stable cables, attenuators, adapters and calibration kits.
The TTR500 Series vector network analyzer is available now and pricing starts at $9,000 US MSRP for a 3-GHz instrument and $12,000 for a 6-GHz instrument. More info: www.tek.com/TTR500
Hi, Lee, I read your article and quite liked it. Appreciate your comprehensive analysis, I was wondering if you can recommend me any cheaper network analyzer.