Handheld vector network analyzer works up to 26.5 GHz

Rohde & Schwarz has released its R&S ZNH, a full two-port handheld vector network analyzer (VNA) that can characterize components, including filters, amplifiers, cables, connectors and antennas, up to 26.5 GHz. It comes with cable and antenna analysis and full S-parameter measurements, free of charge.

The R&S ZNH handheld vector network analyzer is designed to detect and remedy defective RF cables and communications system components. It can also characterize components up to 26.5 GHz in the field and lab. In addition to measuring RF components such as filters, amplifiers, cables, connectors, and antennas in production environments, it also can be used in R&D labs, at universities, and any application that has limited space and budgets.

Standard functions include cable and antenna measurements and full 2-port S-parameter measurements. The analyzer also has a built-in receiver step attenuator at both ports that protects it from overloading.

Featuring a four-receiver architecture, the VNA supports unknown through, open, short and match (UOSM) calibrations. Other RF features include low trace noise (0,0025 dB RMS), 100 dB dynamic range, 0 dBm typical maximum output power, and 16,001 measurement points. These features make the device suited for installing and maintaining RF communications systems and characterizing basic RF components, said R&S.

Options such as power meter, pulse measurement, wave ratio, and wave quantities enable field engineers to maintain and restore radar and satellite systems, added the company. The options are provided using a software keycode.

Designed for easy use in the field, the R&S ZNH weigh 3 kg in a small form factor and feature widely spaced large keys for comfortable operation with gloves. It also offers a 7-inch multi-touch display that uses smart touch gestures similar to smartphones in lab applications. Other features include a fanless design and long better life.

R&S also noted that even novice users can operate the analyzer without any previous training thanks in part to a wizard function that enables pre-configuration of test sequences. In addition, free InstrumentView and MobileView software enables measured data to be forwarded from the field to the lab for parallel analysis.