Question 1

What is Vector Network Analyzer?

Accepted Answer

A vector network analyzer (VNA) is being used to measure the performance of a wireless communications device towards a certain network, design network capacity, and optimise network performance. In other words, it is also called a Spectrum Analyzer. The devices are usually able to generate or receive signals such as antennas, amplifiers, cables,  filters, mixers, etc.  The measured “network” is usually a network that we use in our daily life such as 3G, 4G LTE or 5G NR. Wireless LAN and Wifi related devices are also part of the network usually measured by VNA. These devices are being measured to make sure its performance meets the required standards. Moreover, a vector network analyzer is an equipment that evaluates an electrical network's transmitting and receiving qualities.  For example, transmission lines, capacitors, switches, inductance, and resistors are all network components. Network Analyzers are used to evaluate component specifications and validate design simulations to ensure that systems and their components operate correctly together.  Network and/or protocol analysis is a collection of methodologies used by network engineers and technicians to investigate network aspects such as connection, availability, and effectiveness. Network analysis may be used to determine a current network's capacity, examine its performance, and plan for future operations and enhancements.  Advanced network analyzers are capable of pattern analysis. This capability enables the network analyzer to sift through hundreds of packets and discover issues. Additionally, the network analyzer may identify likely reasons for these issues and provide suggestions for resolving them.

Question 2

Where to use Vector Network Analyzer?

Accepted Answer

Vector Network Analyzer usually used by parties (researcher or manufacturer) that wish to analyse signal or data traffic on local area networks (LANs) and wireless local area networks (WLANs) generated by their components or products that are related to wireless communications. Component engineers used to measure the performance of circuits or networks such as antennas, amplifiers, cables,  filters, mixers, etc.

Question 3

How does a Vector Network Analyzer work?

Accepted Answer

A Vector Network Analyzer’s main function is to analyse the transmission of signal patterns. Hence, it contains both generator and receiver. Generator was used to generate a known stimulus signal while Receivers used to determine changes to the stimulus signal by the tested device. The stimulus signal is being generated from the network generator into the tested device, usually antennas, amplifiers, cables,  filters, or mixers.  The signal is being measured on both signals that are reflected from the input side and signal that passes through to the output side of the tested device. The Receivers will then measure the resulting signals and compare them to the known stimulus signal. The result will be processed and show up on the analyzer display. Common measurement performed using VNA is Return Loss (S11) and Insertion Loss (S21). Return Loss is a measure in relative terms of the power of the signal reflected by a discontinuity in a transmission line while Insertion Loss is the amount of energy that a signal loses as it travels along a cable link.

Question 4

What is the difference Between Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) and Vector Signal Analyzer (VSA)

Accepted Answer

A Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) is an instrument that measures the performance of a device towards a certain network. It consists of both generator and receiver.  Meanwhile, Vector Signal Analyzer (VSA) is meant to analyze the signals received from a designated device only. It is paired with a Vector Signal Generator (VSG) where the VSG is used to generate signals for analysis. Hence, the difference is VNA analyses the network from end to end, while VSA only gives us results in receiving certain signals. VNA target use of devices will be antennas, amplifiers, cables and more while VSA will be the devices itself such as Mobile Phone.

Question 5

What is ECAL?

Accepted Answer

Ecal stands for Electronic Calibration modules where it is usually used to calibrate vector network analyzers. It provides an efficient single calibration standard for your VNA with precision and saves time. Ecal provides consistent and stable calibration, at the same time eliminates operator error while bringing convenience and simplicity to your VNA calibration routine. Traditional mechanical calibrations require intensive human operation, which is prone to errors. With ECal, we just need to connect the ECal module to the network analyzer and the ECAl software performs the rest of the work.

Affordable Vector Network Analyzer VNA

Typical Parameters

300kHz~8GHz, 2/4 ports, 50ohm

Bench-top Vector Network Analyzer VNA

BRILLIANT IN EVERY WAY

CONTROL ELEMENTS

BN1000 VNA

INNOVATIVE FEATURES & BENEFITS

CONTROL ELEMENTS

THE RIGHT MIX OF SPEED AND PERFORMANCE

When you need to measure S-parameters, the right mix of speed and performance gives you an edge.Sanko VNA provide affordable measurement integrity to help you transform a deeper understanding into a better design.