Analyser for Africa’s only sub-terahertz measurement facility.

Enabling calibrated high-frequency measurements up to 220 GHz.

The University of Pretoria's Carl and Emily Fuchs Institute for Microelectronics (CEFIM) has selected the Anritsu 220 GHz VectorStar™ Broadband Vector Network Analyser (VNA) as the core measurement platform for Africa's only comprehensive sub-terahertz (sub-THz) measurement facility. By establishing this capability locally, CEFIM will give researchers in South Africa and the wider region access to advanced sub-THz measurement resources that previously required overseas facilities.

Tinus Dr. Heinrich Laue and Professor Tinus Stander (University of Pretoria), Darius Opperman (Tamashi Technology Investments) and Stefano Balzarini (Anritsu) and associates.

Extending Measurement Capability to 220 GHz.
At the heart of the facility is the Anritsu VectorStar Broadband VNA, providing continuous broadband frequency coverage up to 220 GHz. Together with harmonic mixers and calibrated noise analysis capabilities, the system enables characterisation of microwave and millimetre-wave devices operating in the sub-terahertz frequency range. The installation extends CEFIM's previous measurement capability from 110 GHz to 220 GHz, providing researchers with access to calibrated measurements across a significantly broader frequency range and enabling more complete validation of high-frequency device designs.

Selected for Advanced Research.
The facility will support a broad range of research activities within CEFIM, including work related to next-generation wireless communications, radio astronomy, water vapour radiometry and other sub-terahertz technologies. It will also support the institute's participation in international research initiatives, including the African Millimetre Telescope project and the development of next-generation radio astronomy receivers. “As this is an emerging research field, no facility previously existed in South Africa to measure electromagnetic waves and devices at these frequencies,” said Professor Tinus Stander, Carl and Emily Fuchs Institute for Microelectronics, University of Pretoria. “The establishment of this facility will support research in future wireless communications, radio astronomy and a range of emerging applications that require measurement capabilities well above 100 GHz.”

“Leading research institutions require measurement solutions they can rely on when pushing the boundaries of microwave and millimetre-wave technology. We are proud that CEFIM selected Anritsu’s VectorStar Broadband VNA for their facility, and we see this project as another example of the trust that universities and research organisations place in Anritsu for advanced high-frequency measurements,” said Marco Bordin, Sales Director, Southern Region, Anritsu EMEA.

The facility was established under South Africa's National Research Foundation (NRF) National Equipment Programme. The Anritsu solution was supplied in collaboration with Tamashi Technology Investments, Anritsu's authorised representative in South Africa.

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@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @UPTuks @NapierPR   #TandM #Research #South_Africa

Signal quality analyser editor.

New GUI-based test creation capabilities accelerate validation of high-speed transmission devices

Significant enhancements have been announced by Anritsu to the Sequence Editor feature of its Signal Quality Analyser-R MP1900A, a high-performance Bit Error Rate Tester (BERT). The enhanced capabilities enable intuitive, GUI-based creation of test sequences for abnormal and stress conditions, streamlining the evaluation process for PCI Express® 6.0 (PCIe® 6.0) devices operating at unprecedented speeds.

Key Enhancements.
The updated Sequence Editor delivers several critical capabilities for next-generation device validation:

• Intuitive Test Creation: GUI-based interface simplifies the development of complex test sequences for abnormal and stress conditions
• Multi-Channel Evaluation: Simultaneous testing across multiple PCIe lanes enables realistic test environments
• Precision Fault Isolation: Advanced capabilities help engineers isolate both physical and logical-layer errors in high-speed transmission environments
• Enhanced Workflow Efficiency: Streamlined design and validation processes improve overall product quality and reduce time-to-market

Addressing PCIe 6.0 Testing Challenges.
As PCIe 6.0 transmission speeds reach 64 GT/s, traditional signal evaluation and fault identification methods face increasing complexity. With electrical performance compliance testing on the horizon, engineers require sophisticated yet user-friendly solutions that balance precision with speed.

The enhanced MP1900A addresses these challenges by supporting both standard compliance testing and advanced abnormal/stress test scenarios through its intuitive interface. This dual capability helps prevent costly rework while significantly improving validation efficiency.

Advanced Multi-Lane Testing.
The solution's multi-channel evaluation capability enables simultaneous testing of multiple PCIe lanes, creating more realistic test environments that mirror actual deployment conditions. Combined with Link Training Status State Machine (LTSSM) log analysis, these features support:

• Realistic scenario reproduction
• Efficient fault analysis and troubleshooting
• Higher validation accuracy across complex multi-lane configurations.

The enhanced Signal Quality Analyser-R MP1900A represents Anritsu's continued commitment to providing cutting-edge test solutions that meet the evolving needs of high-speed digital design and validation teams.

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@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR  #TandM 

High precision gas analyser.

The next generation of WIKA's GA11 gas analyser has been launched. This enables switchgear operators, manufacturers and maintenance companies to record the quality of SF₆ gas and alternative insulating gases. The GA11 provides precise measured values for humidity, gas purity and decomposition products. 

Temperature-compensated sensing technology and intelligent measuring algorithms based on stability criteria ensure maximum accuracy when measuring cleanliness and dew point – a significant improvement on all previous versions. Optional sensing technologies for sulphur dioxide, hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide also offer high accuracy and long-term stability.

The new instrument is suitable for mobile use due to its lighter, more compact design. The weight of the impact-resistant hard case, which is protected against water jets and dust in accordance with IP65, is just 22 kilograms. An integrated nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery is also an advantage here. Unlike instruments with a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, the GA11 does not fall under the transport restrictions of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The instrument can be carried on the aircraft as checked baggage – a plus point for international use.

An intuitive user interface and clear menu navigation ensures that all measurement processes are easy to control. All functionalities of the GA11 are available in both rechargeable-battery and mains operation. Last but not least, a closed measuring system reliably prevents emissions into the atmosphere: The measuring gas is either returned to the gas compartment or collected in an external gas recovery bag.

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@WIKANews #PAuto #Manufacturing

Certification for video testing.

Anritsu's receiver test (SINK Test) solution for latest DisplayPort 2.1 standard has been certified by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA), the international standards organisation. Combining Anritsu's Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A with automation software from Granite River Labs (GRL) or Teledyne LeCroy achieves automated verification of data transmission quality and calibration.

DisplayPort 2.1 enables the digital transmission of high-definition and high-refresh-rate video, such as 8K. The standard is still being developed. Recently, the integration of the USB Type-C specifications has led to a significant expansion in the versatility of DisplayPort 2.1 and its adoption across a wide range of applications. However, a challenge facing the development of products that comply with the new standard is that manually verifying transmission signal quality and calibrating are time-consuming due to the complexity of the test equipment settings and the lengthy configuration and test procedures. 

This solution improves development efficiency and ensures the quality of video data transmission by automating the testing and calibration processes.

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@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR #TandM

Sensors and analysers.

The new Mettler Toledo Process Analytics Catalogue for 2025 provides a comprehensive overview of solutions for analytical measurements in liquid process applications, pure water monitoring and gas-phase measurement.

This catalogue provides up-to-date information on equipment for measuring some of the most important analytical parameters in process and water monitoring, and includes some unique innovations, like the 2850Si dual silica and phosphate analyser.

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• Mettler Toledo products are marketed in Ireland through DWN Instrumentation and Mason Technology.

@mettlertoledo @MasonTechnology #DWN #PAuto #Laboratory

Setting new standards in innovation in the analytical space.

The mixed-model production line increases the output by 100 percent and reduces lead times by more than 30 percent.

ABB has partnered with Porsche Consulting, a leading management consultancy and a subsidiary of the sports car manufacturer, to reshape the landscape of analyzer manufacturing, solidifying ABB’s position at the forefront of the analyzer market.

The collaboration drives the deployment of a mixed-model production line for ABB’s process and laboratory analyzers manufactured in Canada, leveraging best practices from the automotive industry. The new production line offers optimized logistics, quality control and operations management, leading to 100 percent increase in output within the same floor space, and more than 30 percent decrease in lead times.

The production floor of the ABB factory in Quebec City, Canada

During the project, every aspect of the manufacturing process – from the production line setup and logistics to quality control methods and operations management principles – was examined and reimagined. In addition, change management approaches were introduced to prepare the factory staff for addressing the market's evolving needs, such as enhancing manufacturing and planning methods with test automation, live operations KPIs, and decoupling manufacturing subassembly product lines.

"Porsche Consulting helped us rethink our manufacturing systems. We wanted to be closer to the customers with better lead times and better reactivity, and to offer customers better visibility of the status of products during manufacturing,” said Marc Corriveau, Head of Global Operations, Analytical Busines Line, ABB. “The smart, digital and lean manufacturing process pioneered through this collaboration will shape the future of analyzer production, meeting the ever-evolving demands of the market and enabling us to maintain unmatched quality and service for our customers.”

Since the delivery of the first units in the spring of 2023, production has ramped up to double capacity, a testament to the efficiency and success of the innovative approach. Furthermore, the reduction in lead times has empowered ABB to respond swiftly to dynamic market demands.

The collaboration marks the latest chapter in a long-standing partnership between ABB and Porsche Consulting, which has encompassed diverse projects from strategic visioning to pragmatic operational transformations.

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@ABBgroupnews @ABBMeasurement @abb_automation @PorscheConIta @AdmiralPR #PAuto #Canada

Process monitor is multichannell.

The launch of the Michell Multi-Channel Process Monitor sees the welcome expansion of the process analyzer range. The MCPM provides up to 6 independent measurement channels with any combination of moisture in gas, moisture in liquids or oxygen sensors to give the user maximum flexibility at lower per-channel cost.

Utilizing the Promet/Liquidew I.S. industrial hygrometer systems for measurement of high pressure, flammable process gases and/or vaporized liquids, with optional Minox-I oxygen measurement transmitters.

• Designed for safe-area operation with a single easy-to-use 7” color touch screen, displaying moisture content / dew point or O₂ and analysis pressure or temperature for each channel.
• Integrated Galvanic Isolation type barriers for Exi measurement transmitters
• Three 4...20 mA per channel, with user-definable outputs
• Two alarm relays with user-programmable set points per channel, with additional system alarm
• Full data logging including measurement parameters and error codes
• Modbus RTU over RS485 and Modbus TCP/IP

The Multi-Channel Process Monitor (MCPM) is a flexible multi-channel analyzer designed to provide real-time, multi-parameter displays for our industrial hygrometer systems, for measurement of high-pressure process gases and vaporized liquids on natural gas platforms and terminals, petrochemical plants and industrial gas manufacturing facilities.

Optional oxygen electrochemical sensors offer additional capability for percentage and ppmV O₂ measurements. Combined with a choice of PST sensors and proven sample conditioning system design-engineering capabilities, the system provides a multi-channel online instrument for both flammable and non-flammable gases, that is reliable and easy to operate.

@Michell_Inst @ProcessSensing #PAuto

Efficient tests of pulse radar Tx characteristics.

A Pulse Radar Measurement Function MX284059B software option for the Signal Analyzer MS2840A has been released by Anritsu. As well adding new functions to the earlier MX284059A, this MX284059B release also supports new interlocked control of the USB Peak Power Sensor MA24406A/18A/40A for automatic high-accuracy transmission (Tx) power and pulse-width measurements. In addition to facilitating pulse-radar field maintenance tests, these new functions help reduce production-line test times for more efficient line throughput.

Pulse radars must always operate accurately and reliably because they are used widely for meteorological, shipping, coastguard, and aerospace monitoring applications as important social infrastructure assuring safety and security on land and sea, and in the air.

Inspection of the Tx characteristics is key for stable pulse-radar operation and conventionally requires various test instruments, including a separate spectrum analyzer, oscilloscope, power meter, and frequency counter. In particular, when testing Tx spurious emissions, field engineers must create spectrum emission masks (pass/fail base lines) using results from several pieces of test instruments, which is time consuming. Moreover, more private weather forecasting businesses are installing high-performance pulse radar that is essential for monitoring increasingly frequent severe weather, such as sudden downpour and linear rainband causing heavy rain and flooding. Consequently, demand for pulse-radar maintenance testing is also increasing. However, the shortage of experienced field engineers may be unable to meet this rising test demand, which creates a need for automated shorter field tests using easily portable test instruments.

Analyzer Outline.
The MX284059B is configured easily in combination with the MS2840A and MA24406A/18A/40A to support tests of Tx characteristics and replaces the four conventionally required pieces of test instruments. Additionally, all test stages from data acquisition to spectrum emission mask creation are fully automated.

In comparison to its predecessor MX284059A, the MX284059B has a wider pulse-width measurement range for testing high-performance radar, including aerospace and maritime applications using short pulses as well as long-range radar using long-repetition cycles (long pulses).

Key Features.

• S-, C-, X-, and Ku-band (3 to 15 GHz band) pulse-radar Tx tests
• Automatic tests of Tx power and frequency, pulse width, pulse rise/fall times and repetition frequency, 40 dB bandwidth, and spurious emissions, with integrated saving of measured data, measurement screens, and pass/fail results
• Evaluation of spurious emissions test results using masks based on the Recommendation ITU-R SM.329, SM.1541 and M.1177 with masks superimposed on MS2840A test trace display

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* See also Releases in 2016 & 2021 for other developments in this instrument.

@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR #5G #TandM

Advanced features and hardware for gas analyser.

Proven measurement technology for monitoring water content in natural gas gets an upgrade

A new version of the Endress+Hauser J22 TDLAS gas analyser, an update to the initial release in 2021 has been announced. The J22 tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) analyzer continues the tradition established by its predecessor with best-in-class accuracy, a user-friendly interface, integrated diagnostics, and a host of modular hardware.

The latest updates include support for the Modbus TCP/IP protocol, which enables users to communicate with their analysers from a central network location in a bidirectional, secure point-to-point manner. Combined with the addition of a native web server, this enables users to easily monitor, configure, and service the analyser remotely.

“Modularity and increased uptime are functional designs unique to this analyser. The J22 was designed to be almost 100% field serviceable,” said Alan Garza, Endress+Hauser advanced analysis product expert. “The goal is to allow users the freedom to repair their analyzer without the need to send it back to us, giving the customer the ability to decide when and where to service their analyser if needed.”

Enhancements in analyzer interface and hardware
In addition to field-service and Modbus communication, Endress+Hauser implemented a user-friendly web server into the J22, which can be used to configure, service, and optimize the analyser for efficient operation in every process stream. End users can perform these functions from any device with a web browser on the Modbus TCP/IP Ethernet network or connected to the RJ45 service port.

The J22 offers selectable and modular hardware, including:

• § Membrane separator
• § Pressure relief valve
• § Bypass armored flow indicator & control
• § Analyzer armored flow indicator & control with flow switch
• § Thermostat
• § Check valve

“We are always looking for ways to partner with our customers to understand how we can improve their day-to-day processes,” Garza explains. “Our customers provided great feedback on how these enhancements can improve their experience – so we took that and ran with it.”

@Endress_US @Endress_Hauser @Endress_UK #PAuto

Power quality trouble shooter.

The 1770 series Power Quality Data logger/trouble shooter is the first instrument built on Fluke’s future platform for Power Quality Analysers with big gains in both form factor and operability.

“The new 1770 series of power quality analysers sets a new benchmark in plug and play data logging and troubleshooting of power quality and disturbances with the reassurance that even users with little experience can collect and analyse meaningful data,” according to Jai Gandhi, Fluke's Sales Programme Manager.

Typical applications for the Fluke 1770 series include routine maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment and power supply problems, energy surveys and optimization and new equipment installation. These measurements are often required in industrial and commercial facilities, universities, hospitals, electrical service providers, and service organisations to ensure continuous, safe, efficient operation of the electrical system. Its intuitive operation and automated connection verification make the 1770 ideal for use by professional engineers and less experienced users working in equipment installation, commissioning and servicing.

The 1770 measures, and automatically captures key power quality parameters including harmonics, dips, swells, unbalance, inrush current and more giving users the assurance that they are getting the right measurement results every time. The bright, large touch screen display coupled with physical navigation buttons and an optimised user interface means it is easy to change settings, manage logging sessions or investigate data in the field whether located inside a dark building or in direct sunlight—even with gloves on. 

Guided setup functionality gives users quick, fool-proof setup every time including the ability to auto-correct measurement connections digitally without having to change the physical probe connections, which improves the operators’ safety. Custom views can be set up to get the most important tests and data quickly, making it faster and easier to perform tests and allowing less experienced technicians to make field measurements with confidence.

The device is powered directly from the measured circuit so there is no need for users to find a nearby power outlet or worry that logged data will be lost by a power cord being unplugged.

The 1770 series utilizes common accessories from existing Fluke products including voltage test leads, current probes, hanger kit etc. offering users cost savings by being able to use them on multiple instruments, and supports Fluke’s Energy Analyse PC software application, providing the same great access to data that customers are used to, with a cleaner user interface and easier reporting.

Convenient data transfer
The 1770 provides flexible data transfer including PC to USB, Wi-Fi, ethernet and remotely via mobile network, without interrupting a logging session, power quality or energy survey.

@FlukeCorp @FlukeCal @NapierPR #TandM #PAuto 

Raman spectrometers provide IIoT connectivity.

Integrated Raman spectroscopy analyzers provide highly accurate in situ measurements while providing 24/7 connectivity to critical data.

The embedded Kaiser Raman Rxn analyzer suite, featuring intuitive Raman* RunTime embedded control software has been released by Kaiser Optical Systems, an Endress+Hauser company.

Researchers and manufacturers in the chemical, polymer, pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, and food & beverage industries require highly accurate chemical composition measurements. In the past, Raman spectrometers required the use of separate stand-alone computers hosting the software needed to convert raw measurements into usable data. Because of installation and system limitations, measurements often took place offline in a controlled laboratory setting, limiting accuracy and lab-to-process scalability.

In contrast, this embedded analyzer collects in situ process measurements, enabling real-time process monitoring, optimization, and control. With this 24/7 automation, companies can maintain a continuous pulse on the safety, quality, and efficiency of their operations—whether in laboratory or manufacturing settings. Kaiser Raman Rxn analyzers perform self-monitoring and self-diagnostics to ensure the validity of each measurement, and to enable seamless model transferability and equipment scalability from lab-to-process.

This latest Raman Rxn portfolio, comprised of the Raman Rxn2 and Rxn4 base analyzer models, integrates analyzer and control software in a fixed purpose device with built-in intelligence. Kaiser Raman technology also communicates with external systems over networks using standard automation protocols, providing companies with reliable chemical composition measurement with secure 24/7 connectivity. By doing so, the analyzers enable an Industry 4.0 strategy of increased data security, system integration, and automated communication.

To ease maintenance, Raman Rxn2 and Rxn4 analyzers perform self-calibration, utilizing spectral correction methods in applications when periodic system calibration is not required. Additionally, they provide flexible installation options including benchtop, mobile wheeled cart, and rack-mounted, or in stainless-steel enclosures for lab, pilot plant, or dedicated manufacturing applications. The rugged analyzers and applicable sampling probes are also certified for installation in hazardous areas.

Kaiser Raman embedded analyzers can be configured with 532, 785, or 1000 nanometer excitation wavelengths, with the ability to measure up to four channels. Measurements can be taken inline, online, or at-line. Common applications include analyzing material quality, monitoring molecular reactions, aiding basic science research, assuring quality, and identifying unknowns.

The analyzer’s built-in software provides 24/7 connectivity to process data via a user-friendly touchscreen or through a remote interface. Raman RunTime integrates measurement with analyzer electronics, eliminating the need for a separate PC and software to interpret measurements. It conveys either raw or processed data and diagnostics over standard communication protocols—including OPC and Modbus—to assure data integrity and compatibility with third-party devices.

Data may be collected manually, continuously, or periodically—with support for embedded predictors. The analyzers’ controller technology is designed for inherent security as a fixed-purpose device to minimize inadvertent or malicious user interaction. Additionally, it does not interact with low level operating systems because all control functions are directed via the software user interface. It also provides user management, password protection for privileged analyzer functionality, and built-in antivirus software to minimize potential malware points of entry.

Kaiser Raman technology supports the needs of Industry 4.0 with smart power controls, enhanced diagnostics, remote laser interlock, robust fiber connections, and automation input/outputs. By delivering highly accurate, real-time, in situ chemical composition measurements and 24/7 connectivity, the Kaiser Raman Rxn embedded analyzer portfolio helps companies reach new heights of operational excellence.

*What is Raman spectroscopy? (Wikipedia)

@Endress_Hauser @Endress_US @Endress_UK @kaiser_raman #PAuto #Laboratory, 

Complient high-speed ICs, devices, and networks.

Anritsu Corporation President Hirokazu Hamada and Tektronix have announced the provision of an automated PCI Express® 5.0 (PCIe Gen5) test solution combining Anritsu’s Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A BERT series with Tektronix’s DPO70000SX series 70 GHz Real-time Oscilloscope and automation software. The all-in-one solution supports tests of PCIe 5.0 electrical characteristics, physical-layer protocol analysis, and transmitter/receiver and Link Equalization Training (LEQ) tests to facilitate efficient development of high-speed ICs, devices, and networks used in emerging environments, including 5G. 

Anritsu and Tektronix end-to-end solution can be quickly configured to support required PCIe 5.0 specifications and supports automated transmitter test, receiver jitter tolerance test, and Tx/Rx LEQ compliance test items. It incorporates waveform-calibration automation software with analysis function using event trigger and high-speed calibration between the MP1900A BERT and DPO70000SX oscilloscope to reduce test times. Cost-of-test is lowered as the solution supports PCIe 1.0-5.0 without a hardware upgrade and can upgrade to PCIe 6.0 test capability with a minimum hardware investment.

The Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A series is a multi-channel BERT for designing and testing next-generation network interfaces, such as 200G/400G/800G Ethernet, as well as high-speed bus interfaces, including PCI Express 4.0/5.0, USB3.2, USB4™, and Thunderbolt™. It has a built-in pulse pattern generator (PPG) that produces best-in-class high-quality waveforms (115 fs low intrinsic jitter), as well as a high-sensitivity (15 mV) error detector (ED). A jitter (SJ, RJ, SSC, BUJ) generation source and CM-I/DM-I/white-noise generation source are also integrated into the instrument. Link Training and Link Training Status State Machine (LTSSM) analysis functions support various applications, including compliance tests, margin tests, and troubleshooting. 

With functions for evaluating PAM4 of optical modules, SERDES and other technologies used by data-center 200G/400G/800G Ethernet systems, the MP1900A BERT also evaluates PCIe 6.0 (PAM4 32 Gbaud) devices under development to ensure compliance with the latest PCI-SIG® standard. This expanded analysis capability controls test infrastructure costs.

The Tektronix DPO70000SX series 70 GHz Real-time Oscilloscope is linked with the Anritsu Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A BERT as an automated PCIe Gen5 (32 GT/s) Base & CEM transceiver solution. The new Tektronix receiver test automation software uses an optimization algorithm to correct 32 GT/s and 16 GT/s stressed-eye waveforms to shorten test times using the leading SigTest Phoenix test tool and fast parallel processing. Moreover, support for multiple form factors (M.2 and U.2) and clocking architectures (CC, SRNS, SRIS) supports A/D range optimization and low-noise PCIe Gen5 Base specification 32 GT/s uncorrelated jitter and pulse-width jitter measurements.

@AnritsuEMEA @Anritsu @tektronix @NapierPR #TandM #Electronics

Touch-operated analyser recognised for award.

The R&S ZNA Vector Network Analyzer has been recognised in the Electronics Industry Awards. In the third year of ceremony, hosted online for the first time, the Rohde & Schwarz analyzer took home an award in the Test, Measurement & Inspection Product of the Year category. This category recognises a test, measurement and inspection product that has made a significant impact on the market and shows exceptional performance and innovation.

Commenting on the award, Jamie Lunn, Product Manager Network Analysis at Rohde & Schwarz said, “We are delighted that our product has received prestigious success at the Electronics Industry Awards. The R&S ZNA represents a new generation of high-end vector network analyzers which combine outstanding RF performances with easy measurement setup. This award recognises the technological innovation that Rohde & Schwarz strives for and marks a significant achievement for us.”

A proud Jamie Lunn with R&S's award winning analyser & the award

This analyzer provides a universal test platform for characterising active and passive devices under test. It offers four internal, phase-coherent sources, allowing independent control of the signal's frequency at each port as well as phase measurements on mixers. It provides two internal LO sources, a true multichannel receiver architecture, pulse generators and modulators, an internal combiner and comprehensive trigger and synchronization capabilities.

The R&S ZNA offers an outstanding dynamic range of up to 170 dB (typ. with options) , essential for measurements on high-rejection filters. Across the aerospace and defence sector, the analyzer is suited not only to active and passive components, but also transmitter/receiver modules, converter and satellite subsystems. It can be used in antenna measurement systems, as well as for antenna characterization.

It is the world's first purely touch-operated vector network analyzer, using a 12.1" touchscreen as the main display and a 7" touchscreen instead of a hardkey panel. Together with the DUT-centric approach, the second touchscreen provides a seamless user experience.

@RohdeSchwarz @NeeshamPR #TandM #Pauto

First VNA demonstrations in Europe.

Anritsu Corporation is to demonstrate its unique new Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) at three major institutes and universities in Europe this year, with further events to follow in 2021.

The live demos, in Switzerland, France and Sweden, will showcase Anritsu’s VectorStar™ ME7838G broadband VNA, capable of making measurements from 70 kHz to 220 GHz in a single sweep. The ME7838G, together with MPI’s 200mm probe station, allows on-wafer measurements that span into the upper mmWave frequencies for more accurate device characterization.

The first stop on the tour is in July and August at ETH Zurich (CH) at the Institute of Electromagnetic Fields (IEF) which researches the wave and particle characteristics of electromagnetic fields at all frequencies.

From September 21st, engineers can see the demo at the Université Grenoble Alpes in France
at its department of Centre Interuniversitaire de MicroElectronique et Nanotechnologies (CIME), while in November, the demo will be hosted by Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden at its department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience.

The VectorStar-based broadband system gives engineers confidence in the systems they are designing by characterizing the devices from near-DC to well beyond the operating frequency, allowing more accurate modeling.

Features and benefits of the Anritsu VectorStar ME7838G include:

• Broadest frequency coverage to 220 GHz, with extensions to 1.1 THz
• Eliminates the time-consuming, error-prone concatenation process across the RF, microwave, and mmWave bands
• Modular architecture allows system to grow as needed
• Reduces the risk of waveguide band extrapolation error in device modelling

With the VectorStar ME7838x series, RF and microwave engineers now have a powerful measurement tool for analyzing the performance of devices ranging from transistors in an on-wafer environment, to communication systems in commercial or defense applications.

@AnritsuEMEA @Anritsu @NapierPR

Power analyser optimises efficiency.

Società Elettromeccanica Arzignanese S.p.A (SEA), an Italian manufacturer of power transformer and reactors is able to closely match the efficiency performance guarantee that it makes to a customer, with the actual performance of the transformer by using the Yokogawa WT5000 Precision Power Analyzer.

Founded in 1959, SEA supplies high-value assets which are expected to provide a return over decades. Quality, durability, safety and reliable performance are therefore key characteristics that customers are looking for when they specify a new transformer or reactor.

Transformers play a crucial role in the transmission and distribution of electrical energy; they precisely regulate the voltage of the electricity supply as it is transmitted from power stations to homes, offices, factories and high power consumers, such as railways. There is always some power loss when one voltage level is changed to another. In a transformer operating at transmission-network voltages of tens of thousands of volts, the loss of even a fraction of 1% of the converted power can result in losses of many thousands of Watthours of energy every year.

A primary requirement is therefore to make a transformer as efficient as possible to reduce both the financial loss and the emissions of greenhouse gases, and other pollutants, when generating the extra energy required to make up for the power lost in transmission.

The efficiency of a transformer, needs to be carefully verified before shipment to the customer; the terms and conditions of the sale of a transformer typically specify financial penalties running to tens of thousands of Euros if it fails to operate as efficiently as specified by the manufacturer.

The measurement of a transformer’s efficiency, according to the IEC60076-1 industry standard, requires an instrument capable of measuring voltage, current, phase and power (W) over a range of power factors from 1 down to 0.01.

SEA entrusts these critical transformer power measurements to the Yokogawa WT5000, the world’s most accurate precision power analyzer, which offers an AC power measurement accuracy of ±0.03% at 50 / 60 Hz and provides performance guarantees from 1% to 130% of the selected voltage and current ranges. High accuracy measurements at very low power factors particularly requires a power analyzer to possess very low uncertainty for its internal phase shift. This along with all other influences are fully specified for the WT5000, which makes it ideal for the measurement of transformer losses under no-load conditions.

Renato Franco, Testing Manager at SEA, says: “When buying an instrument intended for use over a period of many years, measurement stability is as important as accuracy.” Continuing he says: “Evidence from accredited calibration shows that the instrument not only provides us with the accuracy we need, but also maintains its performance over many years of use – this is a very important reason for us to choose the WT5000.”

SEA’s customers therefore benefit from the highest possible specified operating efficiency, which in turn gives the manufacturer a competitive edge in the market, since claimed efficiency is one of the most important factors affecting the transformer buyer’s choice of product.

Renato Franco of SEA concludes: “For us, it is vital to deliver a product that matches its high design specifications. By using the proven accuracy and stability of the WT5000 to both specify our transformers and to check their individual performance, we are confident that our customers are really getting what they are paying for.”

@Yokogawa_Europe @Yokogawa_EU @ArmitageComm #PAuto

Signal quality analyzer supports USB receiver.

Anritsu Corporation has started sales of its USB4^TM receiver test solution using the company's Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A in combination with automation software from Granite River Labs or Teledyne LeCroy to control a connected oscilloscope and implement tests meeting the latest USB4 standards.

The spread of next generation 5G mobile communications and Internet of Things (IoT) devices is driving development of various new communications and IoT services that are massively increasing data volumes. To increase the speed of interfaces handling these large video and data files, smartphones, tablet PCs, and other digital devices are adopting USB Type-C® connectors. These connectors are an extension of the USB 3.2 high-speed standard (10 Gbit/s x 2 lanes), which has now been extended again to USB4 offering doubled speeds of 20 Gbit/s x 2 lanes; USB4 compliance tests are being run in 2020.

Due to the 20-Gbit/s speed of USB4, the Electrical test places heavy emphasis on the Tr/Tf and intrinsic jitter performance of the test signal source because measurement-system noise and jitter cannot be ignored. Additionally, like previous USB tests, to assure accurate measurement of device receiver sensitivity, the test is performed by calibrating the test signal according to the minimum input performance defined by the receiver standards. Automation of the BERT and oscilloscope combination is necessary to minimize the workload of signal calibration and optimize test reproducibility.

The Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A is a high-performance BERT supporting not only USB tests, but also receiver tests of high-speed computing and data communications interfaces, such as PCI Express, Thunderbolt, and 400 GbE/800 GbE.

Its high-quality data output performance (12-ps Tr/Tf, and 115-fs rms Intrinsic Jitter) helps assure more accurate measurement of high-speed USB performance as required by the USB4 receiver test. In addition, combination with Granite River Labs GRL-USB4-RXA or Teledyne LeCroy QPHY-USB4-TX-RX (USB4/TBT3 transmitter and receiver) automation software for automating signal calibration and testing helps high-reproducibility measurement of USB4 interfaces according to the latest standards while also reducing test workload.

#TandM @AnritsuEMEA @Anritsu

Measurement in all colour scales.

The OMA-300 process analyzer from Applied Analytics is proven in providing continuous, real time measurements in all color scales, including Saybolt, APHA, ASTM D1500, etc. giving an accurate and reliable measurement using spectroscopy based technology.

The production of liquid fuels is a complex process with many variables that will affect the quality of the product. The color of a liquid stream is considered an indicator of product quality. Slight changes in color can be evidence of equipment failure, dips in process efficiency, overheating, distillation column malfunction and more. The Saybolt scale allows us to measure color with a numerical value, and we can correlate the color to the overall quality of the product.

The Saybolt color scale is used for grading light colored petroleum products including kerosene, naphthas, condensates, NGL in midstream, etc. The range of the Saybolt scale is -16 (dark yellow) to +30 (nearly transparent clear). There are several widely accepted color scales, Saybolt being one of them, with the purpose of observing the product quality.

#PAuto @AAInc 

Analysing noise & vibration.

AcSoft has introduced the latest NoisePAD four-channel real time Acoustics & Vibration Analyser from SINUS. The combination of robust 8” tablet and DSP-based analyser is ideal for a range of automotive, NVH, aerospace, aeroacoustic, building acoustic and environmental monitoring applications, as well as engineering services, quality assurance and research and development.

When used in conjunction with the flexible Sinus SAMURAI™ software, NoisePAD is a four-channel sound level meter with real-time, third-octave filters and FFT-analyser. The measurement system allows the recording of audio signals up to 20 kHz bandwidth.

All connectors are protected against water and dust with rubber protection cups allowing the NoisePAD to be used outdoors as well as in the office with 12 hour operation and on board 4G, GPS and WiFi.

With bright TFT display, a very low power consumption and full connectivity, the NoisePAD unites the performance of a high quality measuring device with the functionality of a modern Windows tablet PC.

The universal SAMURAI 3.0 software package offers real time noise and vibration analysis offers comprehensive evaluation functions for post-processing. The Base package includes data recorder and FFT analyser.

The acoustic bundle comprises Class 1 sound level meter allowing simultaneous measurements with the frequency weightings A, C, Z and the time weightings Fast, Slow and Impulse.

The sound level meter also supports the processing of percentiles, automatic impulse detection, impulsive and low frequency characteristics as well as markers and triggers. The acoustic bundle also includes 1/3 octave analyser and reveberation time measurement.

The vibration bundle includes additional transfer FRF, vibration meter, Zoom FFT and Order tracking. A number of software options are available for SAMURAI 3.0 including post processing, automation, building acoustics, building vibration measurement, fractional octaves, NoiseCam, tracking, room acoustic measurement and sound intensity and sound power.

Standards
The latest NoisePAD meets a range of standards: IEC 61260 (class 1 filter); DIN EN SO 8041, ISO-2631, ISO 5349, ISO 8662 UNI 2614, UNI 11048 and UNI 9916 (HVMA weighting filters); DIN ISO 7919, ISO 2954 and ISO 10816 (evaluation of mechanical vibration) and IP54 rated with Lemo NIM-CAMAC protecting caps.

 #PAuto @Acsoft_Sound  @elhcomms

Error detector for Dublin!

Anritsu is to demonstrate the new, world-beating PAM4 Error Detector module for its popular Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A Series PAM4 BERT on stand 28, at the ECOC Exhibition 2019 in Dublin, (IRL), from September 23 to 25 September 2019

With the world’s highest operation bit rate and Rx sensitivity, this new ED module for Anritsu’s popular Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A Series PAM4 BERT supports high-accuracy Bit and Symbol Error Ratio measurement of PAM4 signals when combined with the previously released PAM4 Pattern Signal Generator.

Communications data traffic volumes are expected to grow with the spread of next generation 5G mobile communications and Cloud computing services. As a result, data centers supporting fast, large-capacity communications are examining speed increases to 400GbE using four 53.125-Gbaud PAM4 lanes as well as future upgrades to 800GbE using eight PAM4 lanes.

Since the PAM4 method expresses 2 bits of data with four amplitude levels, it has one-third the signal level difference of the NRZ method using two levels, thus requiring instruments to have much higher input sensitivity performance, to evaluate signal quality (integrity). Moreover, at faster speeds, it is no longer possible to ignore the effects of losses from components, such as PC boards, cables, connectors in the transmission path, on measured results. As a consequence, evaluating the true performance of the devices under test requires not only excellent fundamental performance such as sensitivity and frequency bandwidth, but also high-level integrated functions, such as Clock Recovery and Equalizer, to compensate for the impact of losses.

Anritsu developed this new Error Detector with built-in clock recovery and equalizer functions, to implement worldwide highest sensitivity performance for PAM4 BER measurements.

"The Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A Series PAM4 BERT is the market-leading Bit Error Rate Tester for communications speeds at 400G and above and supports high quality signal generation and analysis. The new PAM4 ED module uses a unique InP (Indium phosphide compound) semiconductor Rx circuit to achieve a sensitivity performance of 50 mV (typ.) for a 58-Gbaud PAM4 input. The built-in clock recovery and equalizer functions, and transmission path compensation, support never-before-seen validation of BER measurement results. As an additional unique value in the market, multichannel signal generation, combined with FEC patterns emulation and jitter tolerance testing, enables accurate evaluation of the true performance of optical transceiver modules and devices, as well as specification margins, in real life working conditions,"  Hirokazu Hamada, Anritsu’s President comments.

#TandM #Ireland @AnritsuEMEA  @Anritsu @ECOC_Exhibition @NapierPR

Mini-Distillation Analyser.

ISL's latest version of its robust and portable micro-distillation analyzer, OptiPMD, has been intriduced by PAC. OptiPMD combines 15 years of experience with the latest technology to offer a user-friendly solution that significantly reduces the need for training. OptiPMD follows ASTM D7345, which is approved in more than 10 fuel specifications, including gasoline with up to 20% ethanol, diesel, jet fuel, kerosene and bio-diesels.

OptiPMD performs a physical atmospheric distillation in just 10 minutes using only 10 ml of sample. This allows faster decisions for process optimization and potentially saves millions in off-spec products.

It is designed to be a true "one-push-button" solution, with a fully automated test sequence, allowing minimal operator attendance. Simply prepare the sample and load into the analyzer. Type in a sample ID, select it from the pre-loaded options, or scan it with the barcode reader. Then, just press START to run the sample. The results can be stored, printed or shared via ethernet, LIMS or with a USB drive.

The fastest way to perform a distillation of petroleum products, this analyzer saves between 25 to 35 minutes per distillation, compared to D86 analyzers.

The robust design and compact size makes it ideal for mobile lab applications. It also includes the highest safety standards including an optical flame detector, a built-in fire suppression system, and quality control functions, which allow users to enter specification limits by product.

The unit is compliant with: ASTM D7345, IP 596 and in perfect correlation to: ASTM D86, D1160 (biodiesel B100), ISO 3405 & IP123. It's also included in 10 ASTM fuel specifications as an alternative to D86 for product certification and compliant with international fuel specs in Canada, Mexico, Chile, India as well as Def Stan 91-091 for jet fuel.

#PAC #PAuto