Ai enabled Vector Network Analyzer (VNA).

Redefining high performance RF and microwave network analysis.

The Tensor Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) from Anritsu, represents a major advancement in RF and microwave network analysis, delivering modern, scalable architecture designed to support the most complete and demanding measurements like Amplifiers, Filters, Frequency Convertors (Mixers – Single Stage and Multistage), Opto-electronics, and other advanced VNA measurements. The instrument is engineered to meet the evolving requirements for aerospace and aeronautics, semiconductor, active and passive device measurements, signal integrity, research and development, and millimeter wave/waveguide system development.

Key differentiators and platform highlights.
The Tensor VNA has been designed from the ground up to address measurement complexity, speed, and accuracy challenges faced by today’s engineers. Key highlights include:

• 1 source-per-port architecture, which means 4 sources for a 4 port VNA, which not only enables multiple measurements with the same setup (multiple amplifiers/mixers/multistage mixers), but also provides the industry’s best specifications related to output power and dynamic range, etc.
• Inbuilt Ai engine that helps in making complex measurements in an easy and intuitive fashion. Tensor VNA works as a companion with the user rather than just being a measurement tool. It helps users with suggestions and understands human language to make it a user-friendly environment.
• Ultrafast sweep speed and data transfer rates with a modern software architecture to support complex measurements to be made with ease.
• Most advanced hardware for a next generation VNA platform hardware optimised for high dynamic range, low trace noise, and repeatable measurement performance across wide frequency spans. The only VNA in the world that offers 1 source-per-port as a default, so that customers can use even 2 port VNAs to make amplifier two tone measurements or with a 4 port VNA can make 2-2 tone amplifier/mixer measurements.The hardware also comes with an option to have the 2nd local oscillator (LO) which provides vector mixer measurements (phase, group delay, etc.).
• Scalable, flexible configuration with NO additional test sets or hardware for supporting various configuration. Supports a broad range of test configurations to accommodate diverse applications, from device level characterisation to complex multi-port system measurements, banded waveguide measurements to high-speed signal integrity applications

High Frequency and mmWave Readiness.
Tensor VNA can support high frequencies from 54 GHz to 220 GHz with Anritsu’s small compact mmWave modules and at the same time perform waveguide banded measurements with most third party vendors for higher frequencies up to 1.1 THz.

• Accelerated test throughput - Optimised measurement speed and workflow efficiency help engineers reduce test time while maintaining confidence in results, from R&D through validation and production environments.
• Modern user interface and automation support - An intuitive operating environment and automation capabilities streamline test setup, analysis, and integration into existing measurement workflows.

“The introduction of the Tensor VNA marks a major milestone in Anritsu’s network analyzer roadmap,” said Navneet Kataria, Anritsu Marketing Director. “As device performance and system complexity continue to increase, engineers need tools that deliver trusted results while adapting to rapidly changing test requirements. Tensor was designed to do exactly that.”

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About Anritsu ANRITSU CORPORATION (http://www.anritsu.com)

Simultaneous sweep capability.

Enables efficient four 1-Port simultaneous measurements.

A new Simultaneous Sweep capability for Anritsu's ShockLine™ MS46131A Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) —the world’s first 1-port VNA supporting frequencies up to 43.5 GHz - has been introduced. This advanced capability enables simultaneous 1-port S-parameter measurements across up to four MS46131A units. Each unit can be independently configured with custom test settings—such as start and stop frequencies, IF bandwidth, and number of points—while all units perform sweeps in parallel. The result is significantly reduced test time and enhanced flexibility for a wide range of measurement scenarios.

The Simultaneous Sweep feature allows coordinated sweep triggering through an external signal, synchronizing the start of sweeps across multiple VNAs. Ideal for multi-band, multi configuration test environments it enables synchronised multi-band antenna characterisation and parallel path performance evaluation. Remote operation is supported via SCPI commands over uniquely assigned TCP port numbers for each of MS46131A VNAs, enabling full automation and seamless integration into distributed test systems.

This new functionality is particularly suited for applications such as:

• Multi-band antenna testing for LTE and Wi-Fi 7 (which operates up to 7 GHz)
• Sub-6 GHz and mmWave 5G evaluations (including FR2, ranging from 24.25 to 52.6 GHz, and FR3, from 7.125 to 24.25 GHz)
• Phased array validation, where simultaneous measurements across multiple elements improve both speed and design insight
• Remote or distributed test setups, including use in anechoic chambers

A centralized PC interface manages all connected instruments, streamlining both test setup and data handling.

The new Simultaneous Sweep functionality is available as part of the software version 2025.4.1 update and is supported on the MS46131A ShockLine VNAs. Users benefit from a compact, low-cost alternative to traditional multi-port benchtop VNAs, with performance optimised for modern modular test environments.

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@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR #TandM  #Communications

Broadband vector network analyser.

The VectorStar™ ME7838AX/EX series, the first vector network analyzer (VNA) broadband systems to offer single-sweep coverage up to 125 GHz/110 GHz with guaranteed and typical specifications has been introduced by Anritsu. The unique capabilities of the VectorStar ME7838AX/EX systems to sweep and provide characterized data through 125 GHz provide design engineers with the ability to significantly and confidently improve their device models for dramatic improvements in first time yields and performance.

Four broadband VectorStar-based VNA models from 10 MHz (optional 70 kHz) to 125 GHz with guaranteed specifications are available. With the additional 5 GHz guaranteed frequency sweep compared to previous VectorStar systems, the ME7838AX, ME7838A4X, ME7838EX and ME7838E4X meet the market need for accurate verification of components and broadband applications operating at 122 GHz.

125 GHz Calibration/Verification Kits
To support measurements to 125 GHz, Anritsu also introduces the 3656C Series calibration and verification kits that are characterized to 125 GHz. Four versions are available to meet customer requirements and needs.

Calibration kits are available with cal. coefficients (.ccf) only and with or without a verification kit. Anritsu also offers .s1p database definitions (and .ccf) calibration kits with or without verification kits.

Best-in-class Performance
The VectorStar ME7838AX/EX continue to provide the best-in-class performance of existing VectorStar ME7838 series broadband systems, including superior time domain analysis utilizing the most points available in a single channel with the widest broadband frequency and best resolution. Other performance benefits of VectorStar broadband systems are industry-best millimeter wave (mmWave) noise floor and dynamic range at 120/125 GHz, calibration and measurement stability of 0.05° over 24 hours, and broadband measurement speed of 1 second at 1601 points, 10 kHz IFBW.

Similar to other VectorStar broadband systems, the ME7838AX/EX are compatible with compact, lightweight mmWave modules for easy, precise, and economical positioning on the wafer probe station. They are the only mmWave modules compact enough to provide direct connection to on-wafer probes for maximum dynamic range and measurement stability. Included in the series is the first mmWave module with electronic power leveling to offer the widest power level control of up to 50 dB.

Anritsu provides an efficient upgrade path to existing VectorStar ME7838 broadband system customers. The ME7838AX/EX systems are available in 2- and 4-port configurations.

Applications
The ME7838AX/EX have been developed for communication design engineers designing systems for on-wafer applications, as well as on-wafer production facilities where a combination of RF, microwave, and mmWave devices, components, and subsystems need to be measured on the same wafer. They are also well suited for research institutes exploring new technologies and system designs, manufacturers, institutes, and universities designing and developing silicon photonic solutions, and universities investigating emerging communications technologies.

@Anritsu @NapierPR #TandM #Communications, 

Modular 2-port VNA family.

New ShockLine™ ME7868A 2-port USB VNAs Deliver Phase Synchronized Measurements Over Wide Distances Up to 100 Meters

The ShockLine™ ME7868A family of modular 2-port vector network analyzers (VNAs) has been introduced by Anritsu. This unit can conduct full vector S-parameter measurements over wide distances of up to 100 meters. Consisting of two MS46131A 1-port VNAs with the PhaseLyncTM synchronization option hardware and accessories, the ME7868A VNA uses the MS46131As as portable VNA ports to directly connect to the device under test (DUT) to deliver vector transmission measurements over longer lengths and at a lower cost.

The VNAs offer multiple advantages compared to traditional solutions that use 2-port VNAs with very high dynamic range and require long and expensive phase stable microwave cables to reach the DUT.

Available in 8 GHz, 20 GHz, and 43.5 GHz frequency models, the ME7868A series supports multiple existing and emerging commercial and military applications, including high frequency 5G. As the first modular-port-based VNA, the ME7868A eliminates the need for long port cables to measure transmission over distance for applications such as outdoor antenna range testing, over-the-air (OTA) chamber installations, large vehicle (aircraft, ship) electromagnetic characterization (shielding, RF propagation), and long-distance cable insertion loss measurements.

The new PhaseLync technology enables two MS46131A 1-port VNAs to phase synchronize with each other over a distance of up to 100 meters for the first time. PhaseLync improves dynamic range and measurement stability of s-parameter measurements by eliminating the need for long cables with conventional benchtop VNAs. The result is greater cost and operational efficiencies when measuring transmission over distance.

Very lightweight and extremely compact, the two MS46131A 1-port VNAs that comprise the ME7868A are USB controlled via an external PC running ShockLine software. Engineers can easily configure and control MS46131A VNAs from a single PC to conveniently match port count to test setup requirements. Data is more secure, as all measurement results are stored on the PC, rather than the VNA, making the solution well suited for confidential testing environments.

Analysis and documentation are also simplified, as there is no need to transfer data off the onboard instrument memory.

@AnritsuEMEA @Anritsu #TandM  

Broadband vector network analyser.

The VectorStar™ ME7838G broadband vector network analyzer (VNA) from Anritsu is the industry’s first VNA capable of making measurements from 70 kHz to 220 GHz in a single sweep. By offering unprecedented frequency coverage, the new VectorStar VNA allows engineers to more accurately and efficiently characterize devices over a much broader range of frequencies to provide accurate device models, thus optimizing the chance for accurate simulations and opportunity to reduce design turns.

Consistently providing the industry’s widest single sweep broadband coverage for improved device modeling is achieved because the VectorStar VNA system incorporates the Anritsu Non-linear Transmission Line (NLTL) millimeter-wave (mmWave) modules. An innovative design allows the 220 GHz probe to connect directly to the mmWave module for accurate, stable on-wafer measurements, thereby avoiding the limits of coaxial connectors at sub-terahertz frequencies.

The 220 GHz ME7838G leverages Anritsu’s proven VectorStar broadband platform’s ability to go beyond traditional boundaries in a single sweep without the need to reconstruct the wafer probe station from 110 GHz to higher waveguide bands. Because of the design, engineers can measure a wide range of circuits on the same wafer without transferring from a coax microwave VNA to coax mmWave VNA or waveguide mmWave VNA. The system reduces measurement time of the entire wafer, improves measurement accuracy of wideband devices by eliminating the need for waveguide concatenation, and delivers wafer probe station cost efficiencies by reducing the number of VNA reconfigurations.

The ME7838G addresses the market need to conduct on-wafer measurements that span into the upper mmWave frequencies for more accurate device characterization. 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, for more accurate modeling.

#TandM @Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR

Second-Generation VST.

National Instruments have announced a baseband model of the second-generation Vector Signal Transceiver (VST). The PXIe-5820 module is the industry’s first baseband VST with 1 GHz of complex I/Q bandwidth and is designed to address the most challenging RF front-end module and transceiver test applications, such as envelope tracking, digital pre-distortion and 5G test.

“In 2016, NI disrupted the industry by introducing the RF model of our second-generation VST with 1 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth,” said Charles Schroeder, vice president of RF and wireless at NI. “We’re continuing the disruption with the baseband model of our second-generation VST. Engineers can use the baseband VST with LabVIEW system design software to address the evolving and changing needs of transceiver test applications. Engineers can take advantage of the software-designed architecture of NI’s VSTs to help accelerate the pace of design, reduce the cost of test and solve measurement problems previously unsolvable through traditional test approaches.”

The PXIe-5820 combines a wideband I/Q digitizer, wideband I/Q arbitrary waveform generator and high-performance user-programmable FPGA into a single 2-slot PXI Express module. With 1 GHz of complex I/Q bandwidth, the baseband VST suits a wide range of applications including baseband I/Q testing of wireless and cellular chipsets as well as envelope tracking of digitally pre-distorted waveforms for power amplifier, and generation and analysis of new wireless standards such as 5G, 802.11ax and LTE-Advanced Pro.

Product Features:

• 1 GHz of complex I/Q instantaneous bandwidth for generation and analysis
• Measurement accuracy to measure 802.11ax error vector magnitude (EVM) performance of -54 dB
• Baseband 2-channel differential I/Q with 4 Vpp differential input and 2 Vpp differential output swing
• FPGA-based measurement acceleration for measurements up to 10X faster and highly optimized measurement software
• Compact size and tight synchronization of baseband and RF VSTs allowing for 2x2, 4x4, 8x8 or higher multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) configurations in the PXI form factor
• Excellent noise floor and spurious free dynamic range
• User-programmable FPGA that engineers can customize to add application-specific functionality
• Ease of programming with consistent software experience between RF and baseband VSTs

“The baseband VST is a deliberate evolution of our original software-designed architecture,” said Ruan Lourens, chief architect of R&D, RF at NI. “We have managed to optimize in every possible domain, from thermal and electrical to digital signal processing, to successfully deliver 1 GHz complex I/Q bandwidth in a small form factor. The baseband VST can be tightly synchronized with the PXIe-5840 RF VST to sub-nanosecond accuracy, to offer a complete solution for RF and baseband differential I/Q testing of wireless chipsets.”

The baseband VST is a vital part of the NI platform and ecosystem that engineers can use to build smarter test systems. These test systems benefit from more than 600 PXI products ranging from DC to mmWave. They feature high-throughput data movement using PCI Express Gen 3 bus interfaces and sub-nanosecond synchronization with integrated timing and triggering. Users can take advantage of the productivity of the LabVIEW and TestStand software environments, along with a vibrant ecosystem of partners, add-on IP and applications engineers, to help dramatically lower the cost of test, reduce time to market and future-proof testers for tomorrow’s challenging requirements.

@NIukie #TandM

VNA System with industry’s widest frequency coverage!

The VectorStar® ME7838A4 4-port broadband vector network analyser (VNA) system has been introduced by Anritsu.  The new analyser features the world’s widest differential broadband sweep from 70 kHz to 110/125 GHz and utilises the smallest mmWave modules to conduct highly stable and fast measurements when characterising differential devices. The new ME7838A4 provides on-wafer and signal integrity engineers with a new level of performance when conducting differential measurements so they have greater confidence in their next-generation communications system designs.

A key advantage of the VectorStar ME7838A4 4-port broadband system is the integration of the 3743A mmWave modules. Utilising an exclusive Anritsu design that incorporates nonlinear transmission line technology (NLTL), the modules are much more compact than competitive alternatives, for easy mounting on space-limited wafer probe station platens. Additionally, smaller and lighter modules improve overall performance, including superior raw directivity performance that results in superior calibration stability. Modules are available that can extend the VectorStar ME7838A4 to a 4-port 145 GHz system.

The VectorStar ME7838A4 4-port broadband system uses an internal substrate-mounted source for excellent thermal stability, resulting in industry best calibration and measurement stability of 0.1 dB over 24 hours. It also features best-in-class measurement speed of 55 ms for 201 points at 10 kHz IFBW.

Engineers benefit from unparalleled mmWave noise floor sensitivity and the industry’s only available mmWave real-time electronic power leveling that eliminates the need for time-lagging software correction tables. Because internal frequency multiplication begins at 54 GHz in the VectorStar ME7838A4 compared to 67 GHz for other 4-port broadband systems, RF cable losses are reduced for improved dynamic range and phase stability.

Installation and operating costs are reduced with the VectorStar ME7838A4. Probe station positioner costs are lower due to the compact size and lighter weight of the modules. There is also significant savings from the longer interval times between calibrations.

Anritsu’s advanced True Mode Stimulus is available for the VectorStar ME7838A4. With the option, engineers can program two internal signals to deliver a true 180⁰ (or 0⁰ for common mode) differential signal for comprehensive device analysis.

The 200 MHz Vector signal transceiver!

National Instruments has announced the NI PXIe-5646R vector signal transceiver with 200 MHz of RF bandwidth, making it ideal for testing the latest wireless standards such as IEEE 802.11ac, 160 MHz WLAN and LTE Advanced. Engineers can use the open software design of the vector signal transceiver to develop channel emulation systems, radio prototyping, custom real-time signal processing for spectrum analysis and many other applications.

NI vector signal transceivers combine a vector signal analyser with a vector signal generator and a user-programmable FPGA for real-time signal processing and control. Customers have seen 10X to 100X improvements in test time in applications such as power servoing in power amplifier test by taking advantage of the speed, deterministic processing and inherent parallel architecture of the FPGA. Built on the NI LabVIEW RIO architecture, the vector signal transceiver combines programming flexibility and the latest RF hardware to revolutionise mobile technologies test. The NI PXIe-5646R offers 200 MHz of complex bandwidth via a sample rate of 250 MS/s, which is greater than eight times the data rate for the standard LTE radio frame. This makes the vector signal transceiver ideally suited for the latest design and test techniques such as digital predistortion and envelope tracking.

The NI PXIe-5646R is powered by LabVIEW system design software and provides the ideal platform to simplify modern design and test challenges. 

Vector Signal Transceiver

National Instruments has announced its second vector signal transceiver, the NI PXIe-5645R, which is built on a software-designed architecture that engineers can modify with LabVIEW to meet their specific needs. The new vector signal transceiver adds a high-performance, differential or single-ended I/Q interface to test both the RF and baseband signals of a device with a single instrument for faster test times using the latest PC and FPGA technologies.

“The software-designed architecture of the new NI PXIe-5645R vector signal transceiver provides users with unprecedented flexibility for applications such as RF transceiver baseband test,” said Jin Bains, NI Vice President of RF R&D.

Vector network analyser

The NI PXIe-5632 VNA, just announced by National Instruments, is optimised to help engineers meet increasingly complex RF test requirements at a fraction of the cost, size and time compared to traditional rack-and-stack solutions. The new PXIe VNA is built on an innovative dual-source architecture with frequency range covering 300 kHz to 8.5 GHz, independently tuned sources and source access loops to cover a diverse set of measurement applications

The vector network analyser (VNA) reduces the cost of test through fast automated measurements, a feature-rich instrument architecture and simplified test system development. The PXI Express module integrates advanced VNA measurement capabilities to complete PXI-based test systems incorporating precision DC, high-speed analogue and digital measurements, and more

“NI continues its strong investment in RF and microwave instrumentation expanding the adoption of PXI into high-end applications,” said Jin Bains, Vice President of RF Research and Development at National Instruments. “The extensive feature set of the NI PXIe-5632 VNA significantly reduces the cost of network measurements, especially in high-volume automated test applications that require highly accurate measurements, a fast measurement speed and a small footprint.”