Lightweight vector network analyzer simplifies accurate S-parameter measurements

Rohde and Schwarz has launched the R&S ZNLE vector network analyzer to address the requirements of customers looking to perform RF measurements to characterize components such as antennas, attenuators, filters and PCBs. The new standalone instrument weighs only 6 kg and has a footprint of just 408mm x 235mm, saving up to two thirds of space on the workbench compared with competitive VNAs. The two-port vector network analyzer not only saves space but also provides quick and accurate measurements, not least due to its easy-to-use S-parameter wizard. The device performs bidirectional measurements of the S11, S21, S12 and S22 S parameters. An optional GPIB interface is available for remote control of the analyzer. The instrument comes in two models with frequency ranges from 1MHz to 3GHz (R&S ZNLE3) and to 6GHz (R&S ZNLE6). The R&S ZNLE offers outstanding RF performance with a wide dynamic range of typically 120dB and measurement bandwidths from 1Hz to 500kHz. Measurement time is just 9.6ms for 201 points at 100 kHz measurement bandwidth, for a 200MHz span, with two-port TOSM/SOLT calibration. For stable, repeatable measurements, the device produces low trace noise of typically 0.001dB.