
What is a Vector Network Analyzer?
August 28, 2023What is a Vector Network Analyzer
Using VNAs in Unique Applications
Using a VNA as Alternative Test Equipment
The purpose of a spectrum analyzer is to illustrate the spectral components of an applied signal. It is built to provide clear signal readings without side-lobes or false signals. Since a VNA is meant to measure the stimulus signal it creates and provide fast measurements, it isn’t optimized for this task. The IF filter of the VNA is optimized for speed where the final IF filter of the spectrum analyzer is optimized for spectral purity and therefore measures each frequency point more slowly.
As for using a USB vector network analyzer as a signal generator, the answer is a little more optimistic. It can provide an additional source for a test setup when one is not available. One example scenario is when an engineer might need a source for the LO to a mixer. Or another time might be if a power meter or spectrum analyzer functionality needs to be verified. If interested in learning more about when a VNA needs to be used as a signal generator, read the article here from Copper Mountain Technologies.
How Does a Vector Network Analyzer Work?
Vector Network Analyzer Calibration: The Basics
Related Post

What is a Vector Network Analyzer vs Spectrum Analyzer?
May 25, 2023
A vector network analyzer (VNA) is very different from a spectrum analyzer (SA). The former is used to measure the transmission and reflection characteristics of a Device Under Test (DUT), and the latter is suitable for measuring the amplitudes of frequencies applied to its input. Where an oscilloscope might display the time domain response of a number of input signals, an SA displays the Fourier transform of the signals, showing the distinct amplitude of each frequency component.

Why is it Necessary to Calibrate a Vector Network Analyzer?
March 28, 2023
If the VNA isn’t calibrated before measurement, then the reference plane will be at the VNA connectors, and any phase or delay will include the excess delay and phase shift of the test cables. Additionally, there may be ripple in the transmission measurements (s12 and s21) due to error term constructive and destructive interference.

Getting Started with the CMT VNA: Top 10 Tips and Tricks
February 14, 2018
The examples created in this document are based on the S5048, but apply to most of the Copper Mountain Technologies VNAs in a similar way. These tips will help you use your VNA with ease and help you get more intuitive results.