What are network analyzers used for? 

Network analyzers are a type of test equipment for measuring the network parameters of electrical networks. Radio frequency network analyzers can be used across both radio frequencies and microwave frequencies. Used to identify and solve network communication problems and optimise networks, these test instruments have a range of uses and applications in telecommunications, aerospace and defence, automotive, and a range of other industries.   

How do network analyzers work? 

Network analyzers are normally made up of four main components: a signal generator, a test set, a receiver or receivers, and a display. Usually, they have two test ports, allowing the measurement of four S-parameters, although instruments are available with more ports. The analyzer generates a signal, then the test set routes this known signal to the device under test and the receiver(s) make the measurements of the ratios between input and output signals. Then, this signal is formatted visually on the display for the user to read.  

Most modern network analyzers are vector network analyzers (VNAs). These offer better performance because vector network analysis measures both magnitude and phase as well as being able to make time-domain measurements, match complex impedances, and more. In contrast, old network analyzers known as scalar network analyzers (SNAs) were only able to measure magnitude.  

What are the different types of network analyzers? 

There are a few different types of RF and microwave network analyzers that measure networks' parameters in different ways.  

Vector network analyzers (VNAs) are a common type of network analyzer and are sometimes referred to as automatic network analyzers or gain-phase meters. These measure both the amplitude response and phase of the device under test (DUT); the measurement of phase allows for a better characterisation of the network and device. VNAs do this by generating a signal and taking measurements of the transmitted and reflected waves through the device under test. Most of the time, when people refer to network analyzers, they are talking about VNAs.  

Scalar network analyzers (SNAs) are a less often used type of network analyzer that can only measure the amplitude properties of the device that is being tested. This means that it is simpler and can measure fewer parameters than a vector network analyzer. They are often cheaper than VNAs due to their more limited performance.  

Large Signal Network Analyzers (LSNAs) are less common and are used to analyse networks under large signal conditions. 

What's the difference between a network analyzer and a spectrum analyzer? 

Both electrical testing instruments designed for the measurement and analysis of radio and microwave frequencies, there are some key differences between network and spectrum analyzers. Firstly, the measurements they make are different. While a spectrum analyzer is for the measurement of existing signals in the frequency domain, a network analyzer generates a signal and measures the response in order to test the network.  

Moreover, microwave and RF network analyzers are more accurate in their measurements than spectrum analyzers, using vector-error correction. Meanwhile, spectrum analyzers tend to have a wider range of intermediate frequency (IF) bandwidths available than network analysis tools.  

If you're looking to purchase or rent a spectrum analyzer, you can browse our wide range of rental and certified pre-owned spectrum analyzers here.  

Why purchase a used network analyzer? 

For network analysis on a budget, purchasing a certified pre-owned network analyzer is one of the most cost-effective options. We carefully source the highest quality used network analyzers from world leading brands such as Keysight Technologies and Rohde & Schwarz. Each instrument undergoes our rigorous 23-step certification process and calibration (calibration certificates are included). With our careful selection process, you can feel at ease that your certified pre-owned network analyzer is of the highest quality.  

What are the benefits of network analyzer rental? 

Another cost-effective solution to all your analysis needs is network analyzer rental. Flexible and cost-effective, renting test equipment is a great way to access top-of-the-range assets while protecting your capital expenditure. We also offer a range of financial solutions to suit your requirements, including Divide By, our hire purchase solution, Easy to Source, our rent to own solution, or Operating Leases.