Top 10 Network Analyzer Brand & Manufacturers

What is Network Analyzer

A network analyzer is an instrument that measures the network parameters of electrical networks. It characterizes radio frequency (RF) devices by sending known signals into a device and taking ratioed measurements between the input and output signals. It can measure parameters such as S-parameters, Y-parameters, Z-parameters, and H-parameters. It is often used to characterize two-port networks such as amplifiers and filters, but can also be used on networks with an arbitrary number of ports.

History of Network Analyzer

From 1929 to the late 1960s, large alternating current power systems were modeled and studied on AC network analyzers (also called alternating current network calculators or AC calculating boards) or transient network analyzers. These special-purpose analog computers were an outgrowth of the DC calculating boards used in the very earliest power system analysis. By the middle of the 1950s, fifty network analyzers were in operation. AC network analyzers were much used for power-flow studies, short circuit calculations, and system stability studies, but were ultimately replaced by numerical solutions running on digital computers.

Purpose of Network Analyzer

Network analyzers have many applications, including sound and vibration measurements, high-frequency measurements, filter performance evaluation, circuit noise performance measurements, and various RF-based measurements. They can measure the sound pressure level in an acoustic environment or the acceleration of an object in response to a vibration input. They can also provide voltage and current waveforms to analyze the behavior of a circuit or component, determine a filter's frequency response, measure the noise power of circuits at different frequencies, and measure the reflection coefficient of an impedance mismatch.

Principle of Network Analyzer

The basic working principle of a network analyzer is to measure the phase and amplitude of both the reflected and incident waves at the different ports of the device under test (DUT). The analyzer includes both a source and a set of receivers. The source produces a known stimulus signal, and the receivers determine the changes in the stimulus signal caused by the DUT. It measures the incident, reflected, and transmitted signals to calculate the forward S-parameters.

Features of Network Analyzer

Network analyzers have high measurement accuracy and can measure parameters such as amplitude and phase with high precision. They also have a wide frequency range, covering from low frequencies to millimeter wave frequencies. In addition, they have powerful data processing and analysis capabilities, which can display measurement results in various forms, such as curves, tables, and Smith charts. Some network analyzers also have functions such as time-domain analysis and noise figure measurement.

Types of Network Analyzer

There are mainly three types of network analyzers:

• Scalar Network Analyzer (SNA): Measures only the amplitude properties of a DUT. It can be used to measure parameters like VSWR and return loss, which only require the measurement of the magnitude of a signal at a particular frequency or frequency range.
• Vector Network Analyzer (VNA): Measures both the amplitude and phase properties of a DUT. It is an extremely versatile instrument that can characterize S-parameters, match complex impedances, make time-domain measurements, and more.
• Large Signal Network Analyzer: Used to measure the nonlinear characteristics of devices under large signal conditions.

Precautions for using Network Analyzer

When using a network analyzer, the following precautions should be taken:

• Use quality components and sound measurement practices, and use high-quality connectors, adapters, and cables.
• Clean the instrument before and after use to prevent dirt or dust from affecting the measurement accuracy.
• Ensure proper grounding to avoid electrical shock and interference.
• Read the warning labels and specifications carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Protect the RF connector to avoid damage.
• Follow proper RF cable and connector care procedures and use a calibrated torque wrench to ensure accuracy and consistent connections.
• Check for proper ventilation and humidity and maintain the temperature at about 23 °C (73 °F).

Things to consider when purchasing Network Analyzer

When purchasing a network analyzer, the following factors should be considered:

• Frequency range: Select a network analyzer with a frequency range that meets your measurement needs.
• Measurement accuracy: Consider the measurement accuracy requirements of your application and select an instrument with appropriate accuracy.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Dynamic range: The dynamic range of the instrument should be sufficient to measure the signals of interest.
• Measurement speed: If you need to make rapid measurements, choose an instrument with a fast measurement speed.
• Functionality: Consider the specific functions you need, such as time-domain analysis, noise figure measurement, and calibration capabilities.
• Price and cost of ownership: Consider the price of the instrument as well as the cost of calibration, maintenance, and accessories.

Terms of Network Analyzer

Some common terms related to network analyzers include:

• S-parameters: Scattering parameters, which describe the reflection and transmission characteristics of a network.
• Return loss: The ratio of the power reflected from a load to the power incident on the load, usually expressed in decibels.
• VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio): The ratio of the maximum voltage to the minimum voltage in a standing wave on a transmission line.
• Impedance: The opposition to the flow of alternating current in a circuit, consisting of resistance and reactance.
• Phase: The relative position of a waveform in time with respect to a reference waveform.