Siglent has introduced the new SNA6000A Vector Network Analyzer series, designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern RF designs with outstanding specifications and a wide range of powerful features. The series includes eight models, offering bandwidths of 13.5 GHz and 26.5 GHz. Each bandwidth is available in both 2-port and 4-port configurations. Additionally, all models come in a standard version, or an extended version (SNA61xxA) equipped with Direct Receiver Access (DRA), which enhances the flexibility and performance of the instrument, especially in advanced applications.
A high dynamic range enables more precise and reliable measurements, critical in research, development, and production. The SNA6000A stands out with a dynamic range exceeding 135 dB, making it ideal for detailed analysis of weak signals, even in the presence of stronger ones. This makes the analyzer a perfect solution for tasks like measuring filters with low insertion loss and high stopband attenuation. Additionally, the high dynamic range helps reduce signal distortion, enhancing signal integrity and improving calibration accuracy, especially in scenarios where external factors like cables or adapters need to be minimized.
In practice, calibration alone cannot always fully eliminate all external influences. Therefore, it is essential to have the right tools to mitigate interference from cables or test sockets. The SNA6000A series provides features such as an adjustable reference plane, adapter removal, and embedding/de-embedding to address these issues effectively.
The Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) functions to enhance the VNA with the capability to thoroughly diagnose and characterize signal paths, lines, and cables. These functions can be added to the SNA6000A with the SNA6000-TDA and SNA6000-TDR options. The TDR option also enables the creation of eye diagrams, which are critical for assessing signal integrity in high-speed digital communications. Combining TDR with the VNA allows for jitter analysis, essential for examining the temporal stability of signals—both key features in high-speed digital development.
Additionally, the analyzer can be upgraded to perform pulsed measurements, which is particularly beneficial when characterizing high-frequency components in real-world operating conditions, such as radar and communication systems. This method allows for detailed analysis of components with short pulses, precise evaluation of fast switching operations, and optimization of performance in time-sensitive applications.
The integration of a spectrum analysis function into a vector network analyzer (VNA) opens up expanded possibilities, especially in the development and testing of high-frequency amplifiers, oscillators and communication systems. This extension is also available as an option namely SNA6000-SA. It allows precise analysis of harmonics, intermodulation products and other nonlinear effects, while simultaneously optimizing signal quality and bandwidth utilization in communication applications. The combination of VNA and spectrum analysis in one device not only offers space and cost-saving advantages but also enables deeper and more comprehensive signal characterization. This expanded measurement functionality leads to more efficient diagnostics and improved insight into the behavior of high-frequency components and systems.
In addition to the functions and extensions described, currently, two further options are available. Firstly, the SNA6000-SMM scalar mixer analysis, i.e. measurement of frequency-converting components. Secondly, the material analysis option. This enables the VNA to determine important parameters for electronic applications, especially the permittivity and permeability of materials. An integrated formula editor and mask test support developers in analyzing the test object and speeding up the evaluation. The large 12-inch touchscreen can be flexibly configured and enables a clear display of several windows with different measurements.
For characterizing large RF networks within a complete multiport test system, the SNA6000A can be paired with the Siglent SSM5000A Switch Matrix Series. Available with 2 or 4 input ports to match the VNA, the system sequentially captures S-parameters across up to 24 output ports. With numerous switch configurations available, you can quickly design a custom test system tailored to your devices, offering exceptional value compared to competing packaged solutions. The SSM5000A series connects to the analyzer via USB or LAN, with automatic matrix detection and port allocation. Users can easily operate it as a complete multiport vector network, with the software already integrated into the VNA firmware.
In summary, the SNA6000A series from Siglent offers a powerful solution for the increasingly demanding challenges in the field of high-frequency technology. The series impresses with its excellent basic specifications and flexibility in use and useful expansion options. Overall, the SNA6000A series represents a versatile, powerful and user-friendly solution for the measurement and analysis needs of modern electronics.
