Anritsu has released a new software update for its VectorStar vector network analyzers that provide engineers with an efficient method of verifying their high-frequency designs, including those utilizing mmWave bands for 5G applications. Among the enhancement are simplified calibrations, extensive inter-trace math functions with user-entered equations, and support for the Anritsu Power Master MA24507A mmWave power meter and USB power sensors for more accurate device measurement.
The integrated calibration capability is for the VectorStar ME7838 Series broadband VNAs. The feature eliminates the need to merge separate OSL and SSS calibrations over the entire frequency range of the broadband system, which covers 70 GHz to 110 GHz or 145 GHz. The new software provides a menu routine that automatically merges the two calibrations to significantly reduce the complexity of a coaxial calibration.
An Equation Editor feature allows engineers to develop a comprehensive set of operations between trace data sets, as well as S-parameter sets. The main dialog consists of over 30 functions, input variables and scalar entry along with editing tools, for simplified VNA operation.
Support of the Power Master MA24507A frequency-selectable mmWave power analyzer and MA241xxA, MA243xxA, and MA245xxA USB power sensors for VNA power calibrations is now provided with the software installed in the VectorStar. With an upper frequency range of 50 GHz, the MA241xxA and MA243xxA USB sensors will fully calibrate the VectorStar MS4642B and MS4644B VNAs. The MS4647B VectorStar can be calibrated with the MA24507A Power Master. Unlike traditional broadband power sensors, the Power Master is frequency selective, so the power calibration will not include harmonic and spurious content for improved reference power to the device under test (DUT).
The enhancements, along with the overall performance of the VectorStar platform, make the VNA series well suited for emerging test requirements associated with mmWave designs, such as automotive radar, beamforming, and satellite communications. VectorStar achieves the widest single frequency sweep from 70 kHz to 145 GHz and up to 1.1 THz in waveguide bands due to its patented Non-Linear Transmission Line (NLTL) architecture.
Non-Linear Transmission Line (NLTL) architecture is also used for the ShockLine VNA families. The MS46522B 2-port Performance ShockLine VNA can be integrated with an E-band module, creating an economical banded mmWave measurement solution for mass market production of E-band components, including antennas used in collision avoidance systems and 5G small cells. It can also be used in near-field measurement (NFM) and far-field measurement (FFM) systems, including antenna chambers.
The VectorStar and ShockLine VNAs are part of Anritsu’s high frequency portfolio that can provide accurate and efficient methods to verify mmWave designs during development, manufacturing, and deployment. Other solutions include the Spectrum Master MS2760A ultraportable spectrum analyzer, which is the world’s first handheld mmWave spectrum analyzer to provide continuous coverage from 9 kHz up to 110 GHz.
