RF measuring instruments:
Analysers & generators

RF measuring instruments are typically used to generate and analyse radio frequency signals, and to characterise components in the RF, mmWave and THz ranges.

Vector network analysers (VNA)
Spectrum analysers (SA)
RF signal generators (SG)
Arbitrary waveform generators (AWG)
Single- and multi-channel models

RF measuring instruments and signal generators

RF measuring instruments enable the precise generation, analysis and characterisation of radio frequency signals. They are used for S-parameter measurements, spectrum analysis, signal generation and complex test sequences in RF, mmWave and THz applications.

Various instruments are used for this purpose: Vector network analysers measure S-parameters and transmission characteristics, spectrum analysers examine frequency spectra and interference signals, RF signal generators provide defined test signals, and arbitrary waveform generators generate complex waveforms for demanding test sequences.

What does a vector network analyser (VNA) measure?

The vector network analyser, or VNA for short, measures the transmission and reflection characteristics of RF components, assemblies and leads. Typical measurement parameters include S-parameters, impedance, insertion loss and phase response. VNAs are used to precisely characterise antennas, filters, amplifiers, cables, adaptors, waveguides or wafer-level structures. Measurement accuracy is ensured through the use of high-quality sources and receivers. The calibration process plays a key role in this.

Modern communication standards (such as 5G) place high demands on components that need to be tested in higher frequency bands (millimetre waves). Network analysers require:

Wide frequency coverage
Sufficient output power to drive the components in compression
Wide dynamic range
Stability and reduced harmonic content in the spectrum

RF measurement solutions with Keysight vector network analysers

As part of larger integration projects, we work with you and our partner Keysight to implement high-performance measurement solutions for demanding RF applications. In doing so, we rely on state-of-the-art measurement technology – including the vector network analysers from Keysight’s PNA-X series.

This results in precise, reproducible and application-specific measurement systems for research, development and production.

When are spectrum analysers (SA) used?

A spectrum analyser shows which frequency components are present in a signal. It measures signal levels as a function of frequency and reveals interference, harmonics, spurious lines, noise or modulation components. It is used in

EMC testing,
radio and radar measurements,
fault-finding,
signal monitoring and the
analysis of transmitters or oscillators.

The signal analyser (usually a vector signal analyser, VSA) goes one step further: It utilises digital signal processing to demodulate modulation types, phase information and complex digital signals, and to analyse them in depth.

The instantaneous phase of the sinusoidal signal from an available signal source always exhibits random phase fluctuations. This can be investigated and measured using the signal source or phase noise analyser. It measures the power present at a specific frequency offset from the carrier frequency, relative to the total carrier power.

Signal generator

An RF signal generator produces defined high-frequency signals with adjustable frequency, power and modulation. It serves as a precise signal source for testing receivers, amplifiers, mixers, filters or complete communication systems. In RF measurement technology, it is used to create reproducible test conditions.

We offer signal generators with low phase noise and frequencies up to over 40GHz. This enables, for example, a low-noise LO signal to be generated for use with mixer modules.

Arbitrary waveform generator (AWG)

An arbitrary waveform generator, also known as an AWG, generates freely definable waveforms. Unlike a conventional signal generator, it is not limited to simple sine, square or standard modulated signals. It is used when complex, time-varying or modulated signal waveforms are required – for example, for communication signals, radar pulses, interference simulations or application-specific test sequences.

In addition to generating modulated signals for radar and telecommunications engineering, arbitrary waveform generators are also used for the development of Q-bit structures for use in quantum computers.

9 GSa/s and 16 bit
Open-source solutions (Python, Matlab)
IQ modulation (QPSK, OFDM)

Further RF measuring instruments in the bsw radio frequency range

RF measuring instruments are particularly suitable for analysing key signal nodes in communications, radar and network applications. These include, amongst others, base stations, antenna systems, RF assemblies and radar components.

For educational institutions and smaller companies focusing on Industry 4.0, the IoT and networked measurement technology, we also offer compact entry-level VNA models up to 26.5GHz. With their digital interfaces, our instruments can be easily integrated into modern measurement environments.

Typical measurement tasks: