Anritsu MS4644A Vector Network Analyzer

Anritsu MS4644A Vector Network Analyzer 10 MHz To 40 GHz

The Anritsu MS4644A is a high-performance vector network analyzer (VNA) designed for a range of RF and microwave applications. It provides precise measurements of S-parameters, which are essential for characterizing components such as filters, amplifiers, and antennas.

Features:

• Frequency Range: Typically covers from a few kHz up to 70 GHz, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
• High Dynamic Range: Offers excellent dynamic range and measurement accuracy, critical for testing modern devices.
• Fast Measurement Speed: Enables rapid data acquisition, which is beneficial in production environments.
• Touchscreen Interface: User-friendly interface for easy navigation and operation.
• Multiport Testing: Capable of testing multiple ports, which is advantageous for complex devices.
• Connectivity: Various I/O options, including USB and LAN, for easy integration into automated test setups.

Applications:

• RF component testing
• Antenna measurement
• Material characterization
• Network diagnostics

Anritsu MS4644A Vector Network Analyzer 10 MHz to 40 GHz

Specifications for the Anritsu MS4644A Vector Network Analyzer:

Frequency Range

• Standard Frequency Range: DC to 70 GHz (may vary based on specific configurations)

Measurement Capabilities

• S-Parameter Measurements: Up to 4 ports (configurable)
• Dynamic Range: Typically around 100 dB or better (depending on frequency and setup)
• Measurement Accuracy: High accuracy with typical uncertainties in the low single-digit percent range

Speed and Performance

• Measurement Speed: Fast sweep speeds (can achieve measurements in milliseconds)
• Trace Noise: Low trace noise for reliable measurements

User Interface

• Display: Large touchscreen for intuitive operation
• Data Visualization: Multiple display formats (Smith charts, polar plots, etc.)

Connectivity

• Ports: USB, LAN, GPIB (depending on model configuration)
• Remote Control: SCPI-compliant for automation

Calibration

• Calibration Techniques: Supports various calibration methods, including electronic calibration (ECal)

Power Supply

• Operating Voltage: Typically 100-240 VAC

Dimensions and Weight

• Form Factor: Portable, with dimensions and weight varying by configuration

Additional Features

• Software Options: Various software packages available for advanced analysis, including time-domain analysis and distortion analysis.

Benefit:

1. High Accuracy and Precision

• The MS4644A delivers highly accurate measurements with low measurement uncertainty, which is critical for precise component testing, calibration, and analysis. This makes it ideal for R&D environments where accuracy is paramount.
• Advanced error correction and calibration options ensure that even complex measurements maintain high integrity, which reduces measurement errors and increases confidence in the results.

2. Wide Frequency Coverage

• With a frequency range of 100 kHz to 44 GHz, the MS4644A covers a broad spectrum, supporting a wide variety of RF and microwave applications, from low-frequency components (such as RF circuits) to high-frequency devices (like millimeter-wave components).
• This wide frequency range means fewer limitations when testing devices or systems at different frequency bands, offering flexibility for a broad range of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, and defense.

3. High Dynamic Range

• The analyzer offers a high dynamic range (up to 130 dB or more), which is essential when testing components with low loss or those that exhibit high power handling. High dynamic range ensures accurate measurements even when the signal power varies significantly across the measurement range.
• This feature makes it well-suited for testing components such as amplifiers, antennas, and filters that may exhibit a wide range of behavior in terms of gain, loss, and reflection.

4. Ease of Use

• The intuitive touchscreen interface and modern user interface simplify the operation of the instrument. The graphical display provides clear data visualizations and allows users to easily navigate between measurement options.
• The ability to perform remote control and automation (via SCPI, GPIB, LAN, or USB) enhances productivity in automated test setups or for integration into larger test systems.

5. Versatility and Flexibility

• The MS4644A can be configured for 1-port, 2-port, or 4-port measurements, making it suitable for testing simple devices as well as more complex multi-port networks.
• The VNA supports both magnitude-phase measurements and time-domain analysis (TDR), which expands the range of applications, including cable and interconnect testing, fault location, and time-domain reflectometry for diagnosing issues with cables, connectors, and other devices.

6. Comprehensive Measurement Capabilities

• The VNA measures critical parameters like S-parameters, impedance, phase, magnitude, and time-domain characteristics—all essential for fully characterizing the performance of RF and microwave devices.
• Marker functions and multi-window displays allow for detailed analysis of specific frequencies, gain, or phase changes, which can be vital for designing and optimizing components such as filters, antennas, and amplifiers.

7. Time-Domain Capabilities

• The time-domain analysis capability is especially useful for detecting and analyzing reflections in cables, connectors, and other transmission lines. This is particularly useful in identifying faults like open or short circuits, helping engineers quickly troubleshoot and resolve issues.
• TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) helps locate imperfections in cables, which is valuable for ensuring the integrity of communication systems, manufacturing quality control, and field maintenance.

8. Automated Calibration

• Automatic calibration kits are available, which simplify the calibration process and ensure consistent accuracy over time. This is particularly beneficial in production environments where maintaining measurement accuracy is crucial for high-throughput testing.
• The ease of calibration makes the MS4644A convenient for use in both lab and field testing, minimizing setup time and improving operational efficiency.

9. Wide Application Range

• The MS4644A is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
  • Antenna testing: Characterizing impedance matching, VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio), and reflection coefficients.
  • Microwave device testing: Amplifiers, mixers, filters, and other RF/microwave components can be fully characterized.
  • Cable and connector testing: Checking for faults, loss, and impedance mismatches.
  • System-level testing: Including multi-port network analysis for complex systems such as phased arrays and MIMO systems.

10. Cost-Effective for High-End Performance

• Despite its advanced capabilities, the MS4644A provides a relatively cost-effective solution compared to other high-end VNAs in the market. It offers great value for money, especially for organizations that require precision but do not want to invest in more expensive, high-end systems.

11. Upgradeability and Customization

• The MS4644A is available with various options for upgrades (e.g., frequency extension, additional ports, or advanced calibration). This allows users to tailor the VNA to specific testing requirements and expand its capabilities as their needs evolve.