At first glance, impedance analyzers and network analyzers seem to do the same thing: Describe the impedance of whatever is connected to their inputs. This statement is true as far as it goes, but as you might expect, there are significant differences between the two types of instruments. Here’s a review of the basics. There […]
vector network analyzers
IMS 2022 video: Test equipment
Several test equipment companies demonstrated their latest products for attendees of the International Microwave Symposium.
The difference between VSWR and the S11 reflection coefficient
A traveling signal along an electrical transmission line reflects back toward the source when one or more events occurs: One or both of the conductors is open at the far end (receiving end). The conductors are shorted at the far end (very common). There is a discontinuity in the characteristic impedance or an electrical fault […]
PC-based VNAs get automated E-Cal, TRL/TRM calibration
The PicoVNA 108 8.5 GHz analyzer now includes automated E-Cal calibration and TRL/TRM calibration. The PicoVNA 108 achieves calibration automation through either male SMA or female SMA E-Cal modules. These are USB-powered and controlled to electronically select the various short, open, load and through reference standards as they are needed within the calibration process. You […]
VNAs cover 9 kHz to 8.5 GHz with 1-Hz resolution
The Siglent SNA5000A series of two- and four-port vector network analyzers offer a frequency analysis range of 9 kHz up to 8.5 GHz with a resolution of 1 Hz, a dynamic range of 125 dB, and a level resolution of 0.05 dB. The Siglent SNA5000A series consists of four models (4.5 GHz or 8.5 GHz […]