Vector Network Analyzer TTR500 series of Tektronix

Tektronix integrates its TTR500 VNA into an USB module

  • Tektronix is ​​expanding its range of modular instruments for the radiofrequency tests.
  • The US manufacturer completes its range of spectrum analyzers integrated in a compact housing controlled by a PC via a USB link by vector network analyzers.
  • The modular instruments of the TTR500 series, with two ports, cover frequency bands of 3 GHz and 6 GHz.
  • These devices are distinguished by their compactness and more affordable price according to Tektronix than traditional vector network analyzers.
  • The TTR500 model at 3 GHz is sold around US 9000 $, the 6 GHz model around US 12000 $.
     

The Internet of Things or IoT is in vogue. Applications using devices communicating over the Internet should, according to some market studies, increase in the coming years. Wireless communication components using various technologies (Bluetooth, WLAN, RFID and other radio standards) require radio frequency (RF) transmission tests and specific RF parameter measurements.

Spectral analysis of signals is not sufficient, vectorial analyzers (VNA for Vector Network Analyzer) complete the test arsenal. However, these instruments are quite more expensive. Tektronix aims to democratize access and facilitate their use with its TTR500 VNA range.

Like the modular spectrum analyzers that the American manufacturer has launched on the market in recent years, the TTR500 series VNAs, integrated in a compact housing without HMI, are controled by a PC to which they connect via USB link.

Tektronix argues that the TTR500 Series offers performance comparable to traditional VNAs at 40% less cost, as well as seven times smaller in size and weight.

The TTR500 series vector network analyzers are equipped with 2 ports that allow the measurement of S parameters from 100 kHz to 3 or 6 GHz on passive / active components, antennas, RF modules, cables, adapters, etc.

The TTR500 modules incorporate a bias tee available on both ports so that active devices, such as amplifiers, can be biased under DC voltage. The bias tee covers a voltage range from 0 to ± 24 V and current from 0 to 200 mA.

The instrument connects to a PC or laptop under Windows. Tektronix VectorVu-PC software allows control and visualization of measurements, and to save and share them. It supports SCPI commands for integration into automated test systems. In addition, the software offers an off-line mode for analyzing data with an output file format compatible with digital CAD tools.

Main TTR500 VNA specifications : 

  • 100 kHz to 3/6 GHz
  • 122 dB Dynamic Range
  • -50 to +7 dBm Output Power
  • 0.008 dB Trace Noise
  • Bias Tee: 0 to ±24 V, 0 to 200 mA
  • 44.5 H x 206.4 W x 285.8 D (mm)Weight: 1.59 kg (3.5 lbs.)