The Overview
Mini-Circuits' eVNA-63+ is a high-performance, software-controlled, yet affordable vector network analyzer (VNA) with a powerful user interface and full API with SCPI support. Banner specs include a dynamic range of >132 dB typical, trace noise of <0.005 dBRMS typical, and output power of –50 to 10 dBm.
Who Needs It and Why?
Just about all RF/microwave engineers can benefit from having a versatile and portable VNA on the test bench. By moving the complex data processing and calculation required of vector network measurements out of the instrument and into an advanced software package, the eVNA-63+ comprises a fully featured instrument. The VNA's eVNA software will feel familiar to any engineer with VNA experience, and the software's full API allows automation of VNA calibrations, measurements, trace displays, and data exports from a custom control program.
Under the Hood
Here are some of the many capabilities that the eVNA-63+ analyzer brings to the test bench:
- It provides full support for the S11, S12, S21, and S22 measurements of two-port devices. Phase and magnitude data extracted from such devices can be visualized in rectangular, Smith chart, or polar pilots formats, or exported as a Touchstone .s2p data file.
- Users can add time-domain reflectometry (TDR) capabilities to their arsenal by determining the distance or time-to-impedance changes in a transmission line. These changes may include shorts, opens, connectors, or other ways in which impedance could be altered.
- Measurement results can be corrected to exclude test-fixture effects by mathematically moving the reference planes up to the DUT input and output.
- Powerful marker functions enable automation of common measurements, including filter bandwidth, ripple calculations, and display of pass/fail test results.
- A pair of internal bias-tee inputs allow for provision of up to +24 V dc/200 mA maximum on either measurement port (or both), useful for powering amplifiers in-line for .s2p/P1dB characterization.
- Users can configure an automated power-sweep sequence at a fixed frequency, which is suitable for measuring linearity or compressing amplifiers or other two-port devices.
The eVNA-63+ has a host of available accessories, including calibration kits, cables, adapters, terminations, and torque wrenches. U.S. list price for the instrument is $7,995.