Lesson 1 - What is a Network Analyzer?

A vector network analyzer (VNA) is a device used to measure the electrical properties of RF and microwave devices and networks. It does this by sending a signal down a transmission line and measuring the reflected and transmitted signals. The VNA then uses these measurements to calculate the S-parameters of the device or network.

Lesson 2 - Transmission Lines and S-parameters

S-parameters are a set of four complex numbers that describe the electrical properties of a transmission line or network. They are used to characterize the reflection and transmission of signals at a port.

Lesson 3 - Network Analyzer Calibration

Before a VNA can be used to make accurate measurements, it must be calibrated. Calibration ensures that the VNA is measuring the correct values for the S-parameters. There are two types of calibration: one-port and two-port.

Lesson 4 - Narrow vs. Wide IF Bandwidth

The IF bandwidth of a VNA is the range of frequencies that it can measure. Narrow IF bandwidth VNA's are more accurate, but they have a lower dynamic range. Wide IF bandwidth VNA's are less accurate, but they have a higher dynamic range.

Lesson 5 - Increasing Dynamic Range

The dynamic range of a VNA is the difference between the smallest and largest signals that it can measure accurately. There are several ways to increase the dynamic range of a VNA, including: using a narrow IF bandwidth, using a high-gain amplifier, and using a noise source.

Lesson 6 - Beyond S-parameters

In this lesson, you will learn about the limitations of S-parameters and how to use other parameters to characterize RF devices and networks. S-parameters are a powerful tool for characterizing RF devices and networks, but they have some limitations. For example, S-parameters do not provide information about the phase of the signal. This can be a problem when characterizing devices that have nonlinear or time-varying behavior.