The R&S ZNB vector network analyzer family from Rohde & Schwarz has already proved to be a reliable partner for both development and production network analysis applications. With features such as ease of operation and a measurement performance, which combines outstanding speed and dynamic range with temperature stability, it is a leading instrument in the midrange class. The R&S ZNB26 extended the maximum frequency to 26.5 GHz, and now the R&S ZNB43 adds a frequency range of 100 kHz to 43.5 GHz. Rohde & Schwarz will launch this latest model at the International Microwave Symposium (IMS) 2022 held in Denver, Colorado, from June 19 to June 24, at booth #7056.
The R&S ZNB43 is available as two port or four port models, with two connector types, either 2.4 mm or 2.92 mm. It also offers optionally an extended power range and a second internal source. The R&S ZNB43 is suitable for characterization of passive devices such as filters, couplers and switches. When equipped with the second internal source, it becomes a versatile instrument for measurements of active devices such as mixers and amplifiers.
Higher frequencies, faster clock rates and more precise specifications all demand more accurate device
Source: Rohde & Schwarz characterization. In particular for the higher microwave frequencies, de-embedding the test fixture from the device under test is increasingly important. While simple in principle, de-embedding is much more complicated in practice, as the S-parameters for the fixture cannot easily be measured. Only in the past few years have practical de-embedding solutions come to the market. For many Rohde & Schwarz network analyzers including the R&S ZNB family, a range of industry-wide well accepted software tools for de-embedding in line with IEEE 370 are now available as fully integrated options.
With any network analyzer, no matter how well a test setup has been calibrated, there will still be a residual measurement uncertainty that will vary according to settings such as the power level for the current test. Knowing the actual uncertainty under given test conditions is crucial. The R&S ZNB allows users to keep track of measurement uncertainty in real-time, with integrated software options.
The R&S ZNB family also supports inline calibration units which remain connected to the device under test throughout the test period. Inline calibration is essential for tests in a thermal chamber for example on satellites or satellite components. Or in multiport setups with large numbers of ports, where instead of a time-consuming reconnection of DUT cables, recalibration is reduced to just pressing a button on the R&S ZNB.
