TEST & MEASUREMENT


must be dismantled, and the VNA recalibrated at each new frequency and power level before another data point can be taken. This is slow and error-prone. Specialised algorithms can resolve this by enabling the instrument to be configured once, performing a complete power calibration in a single pass across multiple frequencies and power levels. A four-port VNA with a source-per- port architecture can additionally test four amplifiers simultaneously, or perform two two- tone measurements in parallel, since each two-tone measurement requires two sources.


MmWave coverage from a single platform


As mmWave and sub-THz frequencies become increasingly relevant for 5G/6G components, radar systems, and satellite payloads, the ability to characterise devices across these ranges from a single instrument is highly desirable. Maintaining separate instruments for microwave and mmWave work adds cost, complexity, and calibration overhead.


The Tensor VNA covers frequencies up to 43.5 GHz, which can be extended into mmWave and sub-THz ranges through an optional internal hardware upgrade that enables compatibility with external waveguide- banded modules. Third-party modules from vendors such as VDI and Eravant can extend this coverage to 1.1 THz. Compact proprietary mmWave modules are also available, covering 54 GHz to 220 GHz, and offer a more tightly integrated single-vendor alternative. The result is a single platform spanning microwave, mmWave, and sub-THz frequencies without the need for a dedicated high-frequency instrument.


How AI speeds up setup and retains knowledge


The shortage of experienced RF test engineers is a persistent challenge in the industry. Configuring a VNA for a complex measurement, particularly one involving


mixers, multi-tone signals, or multiport setups, requires specialist knowledge that takes years to accumulate. When engineers leave or move to a new role, that knowledge often leaves with them.


Dedicated in-built AI, as implemented in the Tensor VNA, can address both problems. By guiding novice engineers through configuring complex measurements via natural-language interaction, AI lowers the barrier to entry and reduces setup errors. It can generate SCPI commands, set measurement parameters such as start and stop frequencies, assist in diagnosing measurement problems, and place markers and limit lines that trigger alarms when thresholds are crossed. Generated SCPI command sets can also be exported directly for use in automated test environments.


Crucially, for aerospace and defence applications where network security is a priority, such AI capability can be implemented without requiring any Internet connection. Cloud-based extensions can then be offered as an optional future capability for applications where connectivity is permissible.


Tensor VNA capabilities and future developments


The Tensor VNA from Anritsu delivers all the capabilities described above in a mid-range general-purpose instrument targeting the aerospace, defence, R&D, signal integrity,


production, and system integration markets. Built around a high-performance Intel Core i7 processor running Windows 11 IoT and featuring a large touchscreen display with an intuitive GUI, it is available in two- and four- port configurations covering 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz or up to 43.5 GHz.


The instrument ships with up to four internal sources and eight receivers as standard, with one source per port. Built-in bias tees, high- linearity receivers, and advanced attenuators are included without additional hardware. No external test sets are required for two-port, four-port, or mmWave operation. Step-by- step measurement wizards guide users through complex configuration in a manner analogous to a standard software installation, lowering the expertise threshold for advanced measurements.


Performance benchmarks include a dynamic range of approximately 140 dB above 2 GHz, a standard IF bandwidth of 10 MHz and ultra-fast sweep speeds.


. The VNA software supports up to one million measurement points per channel, advanced calibration models, and flexible memory and trace management. A lower-frequency extension to 9 kHz is planned.


A switch matrix option planned for a later release will extend the Tensor’s port count beyond four to address multiport signal integrity and multi-antenna test requirements,.


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