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Top Portable Handheld Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) Manufacturers

network analyzer rf testing handheld vna test equipment vna manufacturer

Portable handheld Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) have revolutionized the field of RF testing by offering compact, precise, and easy-to-use solutions. These devices allow engineers and technicians to measure network parameters in the field with the same accuracy as their benchtop counterparts. In this guide, we highlight some of the top companies of portable VNAs that provide advanced performance in a convenient handheld format.

The popular manufacturers of VNA (Vector Network Analyzer) are Anritsu, AEA technology, Copper Mountain Technologies, Keysight, Tektronix etc.

What is VNA?

Network analyzers are of two types: SNA (Scalar Network Analyzer) and VNA (Vector Network Analyzer).

NA is used for various measurements such as transmission/reflection coefficients, insertion loss, return loss, group delay, S-parameters etc. SNA measures only magnitude-related parameters, whereas VNA measures amplitude and phase-related parameters.

SNA sweeps faster, whereas VNA sweeps slower during measurements.

Network Analyzer basics and types-SNA,VNA

The figure depicts a block diagram of internal components of a network analyzer. A network analyzer consists of a source and multiple receivers. It measures broadband frequency signals using techniques such as power and frequency sweep.

Following are the parameters or criteria used in selecting the appropriate VNA (Vector Network Analyzer) for your needs:

  • Frequency range of use
  • Dynamic range
  • Number of test ports
  • Trace Noise
  • Speed of measurement
  • Type of VNA (benchtop, PXI or USB)
  • Interfaces such as Ethernet, Firewire, GPIB, USB etc.

Applications of VNA

VNA applications include the following:

  • Antenna tuning
  • Filter tuning and measurements
  • Amplifier measurements
  • Cable and connector measurements
  • Automated testing during R&D and production stages, and so on.

Handheld VNA Manufacturers

The following table mentions Handheld VNA Manufacturers with model or part numbers and technical features.

Handheld VNA ManufacturersDescription
Anritsu• Model : MS2028C (for 2 port and 2 path measurements) • Frequency range: 5 KHz to 20 GHz • Measurement speed : 350 µs per point • It has three receiver architecture. • It measures and displays all 2 port S parameters at once. • Applications : cable and antenna measurements, filter tuning in the field. • Other Model : MS2035B (VNA + spectrum analyzer functionalities) with frequency coverage from 9 KHz to 6 GHz • Website : Anritsu.com
AEA Technology• Models : 6050-5100 and 6050-5150 (VNA Site analyzers) • Measurements : S11 and S21 ports, Tracking Generator, SWR (Standing Wave Ratio), Return loss, FDR(Frequency Domain Reflectometer), frequency domain spectrum analysis etc. •  Other models: VIA ECHO handheld VNAs (Model 1000, 1000SF, 2500) ; Via Bravo MRI Coil Analyzers (3 models with part numbers 6015-5000, 6015-5250, 6015-5251) ; Via Bravo Analyzers (3 models with part numbers 6014-5000, 6014-5250, 6014-5300) • Website : aeatechnology.com
Copper Mountain Technologies• Model : R60 • 1-port 6 GHz VNA (Vector Network Analyzer) • Measured parameters : S11 as Log Magnitude, DTF, Smith chart and more • Sweep types : Linear frequency, log frequency, segment • Other model : R180 1-Port 18 GHz VNA • Website : coppermountaintech.com
Keysight Technologies• Model : N9928A • Frequency : 26.5 GHz max. • Ports : 2 (Built-in) • Weight : 6.6 lb. (i.e. 3.0 kg) • Perform accurate testing with QuickCal, full 2-port unknown thru Cal, TRL • Other model : N9927A FieldFox handheld VNA • Website : keysight.com
Tektronix• Model : TTR500 series • Features : 2-port, 2-path vector network analyzer • Frequency range : Up to 6 GHz • Output power : - 50 to + 7 dBm • Dynamic Range : > 122 dB • Website : in.tek.com

Conclusion

Portable VNAs are essential tools for professionals in RF testing, telecommunications, and electronics. By choosing a device from a trusted manufacturer, you can ensure that your measurements are accurate and reliable, even in the most challenging environments. The manufacturers covered here are leaders in innovation, delivering high-performance handheld VNAs tailored to your specific needs.