PicoVNA® 100 Series vector network analyzers

Z

0 impedance reference

System measurement impedance (default 50 Ω) can be mathematically converted to any

value between 10 Ω and 200 Ω. The PicoVNA software also supports the use of external

matching pads and calibration in the new impedance using a calibration kit of that

impedance.

Limit lines testing

The limit lines facility allows six segments to be defined for each displayed plot. These

can be extended to 11 segments using an overlapping technique. Visual and audible

alarms can be given when a limit line is crossed. All plot formats except Smith chart and

polar support limit testing. Peak hold functions are also available.

Supported calibrations

The PicoVNA 3 software supports a comprehensive range of calibration modes to address single or dual-port workload with male, female or mixed gender interfaces, all with best

achievable accuracy (least uncertainty). In some instances only a single calibration kit may be required, as has been outlined above.

As you would expect, the Pico calibration kits are individually serial-numbered and supplied with S-parameter data. This data is a traceable and accurate record of measured errors

for the calibration kit. It can be loaded into the software, which will correct for these errors and those of the instrument during a calibration.

Alternatively, you can use a third-party calibration kit whose

‘model’, electrical length, parasitic values and polynomial

coefficients you can enter into the software and then save

in Pico .kit format. Where a third party has supplied a

calibration kit S-parameter data file, please ask us about the

possibility of conversion to Pico format.

When using an automated E-Cal SOLT Standard, an extended

set of traceable S-parameter data sits within the device

and is read directly into the PicoVNA software over its USB

control and power connection.

As for any vector network analyzer, for best accuracy a

calibration is performed before a measurement with the

same sweep span and frequency steps as the measurement.

If, however, a change of sweep settings is necessary for a

measurement, the PicoVNA software will for convenience

interpolate its corrections to the new sweep settings.

An enhanced isolation calibration setting is available for

optimum dynamic range when using resolution bandwidths

below about 1 kHz.