Vector Network Analysis

Software · Mon Oct 20 04:00:00 EDT 1997

OSTI ID:1230422

Duda, Leonard E.

Vector network analyzers are a convenient way to measure scattering parameters of a variety of microwave devices. However, these instruments, unlike oscilloscopes for example, require a relatively high degree of user knowledge and expertise. Due to the complexity of the instrument and of the calibration process, there are many ways in which an incorrect measurement may be produced. The Microwave Project, which is part of Sandia National Laboratories Primary Standards Laboratory, routinely uses check standards to verify that the network analyzer is operating properly. In the past, these measurements were recorded manually and, sometimes, interpretation of the results was problematic. To aid our measurement assurance process, a software program was developed to automatically measure a check standard and compare the new measurements with an historical database of measurements of the same device. The program acquires new measurement data from selected check standards, plots the new data against the mean and standard deviation of prior data for the same check standard, and updates the database files for the check standard. The program is entirely menu-driven requiring little additional work by the user.

• Short Name / Acronym: CSPVANA; 001219IBMPC00
• Version: 00
• Programming Language(s): Medium: X; OS: HP BASIC Version 5.13; Compatibility: IBM compatibles
• Research Organization: Sandia National Laboratories (SNL), Albuquerque, NM, and Livermore, CA (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: DOE/DP
• DOE Contract Number: P
• OSTI ID: 1230422
• Country of Origin: United States