What are the types of network analyzers?

Network analyzers are key instruments used to measure the performance of RF and microwave devices, and their types can be classified according to different criteria as follows:

I. Classification by measurement parameters

1. Scalar Network Analyzer (SNA)
   • specificities: Only amplitude information (e.g., gain, loss) is measured; phase data cannot be obtained.
   • appliance: Suitable for simple scenarios such as filter passband testing, amplifier gain measurements, etc. at a low cost.
2. Vector Network Analyzer (VNA)
   • specificities: Simultaneous measurement of amplitude and phase to support full S-parameter (e.g. S11, S21) analysis.
   • appliance: Complex analyses such as impedance matching, time-domain reflectance (TDR), and material dielectric constant measurements with high accuracy but high cost.

II. Classification by frequency range

1. Low Frequency Network Analyzer
   • realm: Typically covers DC to a few GHz and is used for baseband or low-frequency circuit testing (e.g., audio equipment).
2. RF/Microwave Network Analyzer
   • realm: Commonly found in MHz to tens of GHz, it is widely used in communications, radar and other RF device testing.
3. Millimeter-wave network analyzer
   • realm: 30 GHz to 300 GHz, requires external mixing module, suitable for 5G millimeter wave, satellite communications, etc.
4. Terahertz network analyzer
   • realm: 0.1 THz or more for cutting-edge research (e.g., terahertz imaging, 6G technology).

III. Classification by number of ports

1. Single Port Network Analyzer
   • Supports only reflection parameter measurements (e.g. S11), commonly used for antenna or load impedance testing.
2. Dual Port Network Analyzer
   • The most common type, supporting full two-port S-parameters (S11, S12, S21, S22), for filters, amplifiers, and so on.
3. Multi-port network analyzer (4 ports and above)
   • Supports multi-channel measurements for differential device, multiplexer or MIMO system testing.

IV. Classification by application scenario

1. General Purpose Network Analyzer
   • Comprehensive features for laboratory R&D and production lines, such as the Keysight PNA series.
2. Dedicated Network Analyzer
   • Optimized for specific scenarios, e.g. antenna testing, cable fault location (in combination with TDR functionality).
3. Handheld Network Analyzer
   • Portable design for field maintenance (e.g. Rohde & Schwarz ZNH), built-in battery and protective design.
4. Modular/PXI Network Analyzer
   • Integrated into automated test systems, it supports high-speed multi-device synchronized measurement and is commonly used in automotive electronics testing.

V. Other special categories

1. Nonlinear Network Analyzer (NVNA)
   • Measure harmonics and intermodulation distortion under large signals for nonlinear characterization of amplifiers.
2. Balanced Network Analyzer
   • Designed for differential devices, it supports mixed-mode S-parameters (e.g., Sdd21, Scc11).
3. Time Domain Network Analyzer
   • Combines time-domain reflectance (TDR) and frequency-domain analysis for signal integrity testing of high-speed digital circuits.
4. Six-Port Network Analyzer
   • Based on six-port technology, it simplifies the structure and is often used for low-cost or band-specific measurements.

summarize

The choice of network analyzer needs to be based on a combination of measurement needs (e.g., frequency range, accuracy, portability) and application scenarios (R&D, production, field maintenance). Vector network analyzers (VNAs) have become mainstream due to their comprehensive measurement capabilities, while scalar or handheld devices are more advantageous in cost-sensitive or mobile scenarios. Specialty types (e.g. non-linear or balanced) are designed for specific technical challenges.

YesterTech offers a family of five different types of network analyzers, ranging from high-end to compact:

• Our high-end PNA series excels in measurement integrity and repeatability. The PNA-X offers exceptionally high measurement flexibility and can replace an entire rack of equipment. The overall performance of the PNA is even higher.  
• Our mid-range and economical ENA series reduces test costs while providing reliable measurements, an intuitive user interface, and scalable instruments. The ENA balances speed, performance and budget.
• FieldFox is the more versatile handheld analyzer. Not only are our handheld VNAs rugged and durable, but they also measure accurately compared to benchtop analyzers.
• Modular PXI VNAs save test space. You can customize only the network analyzer features you need and make fast, accurate multiport measurements.
• The Lite Series USB VNAs are compact in form, but not in performance. The Lite Series USB VNAs have all the performance of a benchtop instrument in a fraction of the size.