Millimeter-wave components are used in numerous radar systems and even in some guidance and tracking applications, although test equipment choices at frequencies above 30 GHz are somewhat limited. A few additional options in testing millimeter-wave components were added recently by long-time test-and-measurement-equipment supplier Rohde & Schwarz with the rm's introduction of a line of millimeter-wave frequency converters for its high-performance vector network analyzers (VNAs). The frequency converters enable the Rohde & Schwarz ZVA series of VNAs to cover ranges of 75 to 110 GHz, 50 to 75 GHz, and 220 to 325 GHz.
The frequency converters connect directly to the ZVA series VNAs with no additional hardware needed to perform millimeter-wave vector network analysis. Even multiport measurements can be made at frequencies through 325 GHz. This new millimeter-wave multiport measurement capability supports measurements on components such as directional couplers and power dividers/combiners, allowing measurements of S-parameters on all ports simultaneously. In addition, the capability of performing full multiport VNA error correction enhances the accuracy of these millimeter-wave measurements.
The frequency converters are recognized within the rmware of the VNAs as if they were part of the mainframe unit. They feature excellent dynamic range of better than 90 dB at 75 GHz and better than 60 dB (and typically 80 dB) at 325 GHz. With this type of dynamic-range performance, even high-rejection millimeter-wave lters can be tested. The latest additions to the frequency-converter family are the 50-to- 75-GHz model ZVA-Z325 and the 220-to-325-GHz model ZVA-Z75, supported by the models ZV-WR03 and ZV-WR15 waveguide calibration kits, respectively. For more information on the millimeter-wave VNA frequency converters, visit the Rohde & Schwarz web site. Rohde & Schwarz, Inc., 8661A Robert Fulton Dr., Columbia, MD 21046-2265; (410) 910-7800; Fax: (410) 910-7801; [email protected]; Internet: www.rohdeschwarz.com/USA.