This section provides an overview for network analyzers as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 24 network analyzer manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked network analyzer companies as of October, 2024: 1.Anritsu, 2.National Instruments Corp., 3.Spanawave Corporation.
Table of Contents
A network analyzer is a test instrument that evaluates the network characteristics of a device under test (DUT). This is done by measuring certain key S-parameters on multi-port networks.
Specifically, it can measure the attenuation and impedance of the input signal to the DUT. In particular, it can evaluate the high-frequency characteristics of electronic components, etc., and has a wide range of applications, including the ability to perform measurements on transmission devices. Such measurements can be conducted on microwave systems, common WIFI networks, corporate networks, basic computer-to-computer connections, and even on large-scale cell phone networks.
The output of a network analyzer is represented by the S-parameter (scattering parameter), which defines the physical quantities known as forward reflection (S11), forward transmission (S21), reverse transmission (S12), and reverse reflection (S22). This is typically the case with a 2-port network, but the devices or connections being tested may have more than 2 ports. Whatever the network situation, the correct Network Analyzer must be chosen to match the number of ports present. This is a basic premise but an important one if the reflection and loss parameters are to be accurately calculated.
Network analyzers are broadly classified into scalar network analyzers and vector network analyzers (VNA), of which vector network analyzers (VNA), which provide not only amplitude information but also phase information, have a wider range of uses.
The advantages of network analyzers for high-frequency applications are used in the development of matching circuits for high-frequency amplifiers. Here, the design is based on accurate S-parameters for each amplifier, antenna, and/or filter.
In many cases, a network analyzer is also used to evaluate impedance matching. This is because impedance mismatch in the transmission lines of each device or cable in a high-frequency handling circuit network can cause power loss or signal distortion.
A network analyzer is equipped with a signal source, a signal separator, a directional coupler, and at least three receivers.
The output of the DUT is measured at a third receiver (transmission signal B). Evaluation is performed by comparing the signals (e.g., S11 is defined by A/R and S21 by B/R).
Accurate measurement of the network analyzer is ensured by precise calibration. For calibration, a standard device with known characteristics is used. A commonly used calibration method is the SOLT method, in which a short-circuit, open-circuit, and load-capable standard are coupled to a reference plane in a direct connection (thru).
Since this is a very precise measurement, care must be taken to avoid measurement errors in various aspects such as connector tightening torque, ambient temperature, input signal, cable stability, etc.
There are two types of network analyzers: vector network analyzers (VNA) and scalar network analyzers. Vector network analyzers are widely used these days.
Network analyzers have a method of measuring amplitude changes in transmission and reflection measurements called S-parameters. S-parameters are also called S-matrices, and there is a numbering system for their definition. The numbering scheme is "Sij i=output port, j=input port," where S11 represents the coefficient of a signal incident at port 1 that has been transmitted to port 1, S12 represents the coefficient of a signal incident at port 2 that is transmitted to port 1.
The S parameter can be measured by using a VNA measuring instrument. However, the VNA must be calibrated using several calibration methods before measurement.
The basic method of VNA calibration is to use three standard instruments. Widely known calibration methods include the SOLT calibration method, the UnKnown Thru calibration method, and the TRL calibration method described above.
Impedance is an important parameter used to characterize electronic circuits, electronic components, and electronic materials. It is the amount of opposition to an alternating current (AC) that interrupts a circuit or other device at a certain frequency. There are various types of impedance measurement methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
The measurement method must be selected in consideration of the frequency range required for the measurement and the resistance and reactance conditions of the impedance measurement range. Measurement methods include the bridge method, resonance method, I-V method, network analysis method, time domain network analysis method, and automatic balanced bridge method.
The bridge method is explained as an example. The advantages of the bridge method are its high accuracy (around 0.1%), its ability to cover a wide frequency range with multiple measuring instruments, and its low cost. On the other hand, one demerit of the bridge method is that it requires a balance operation, and a single unit can cover only a narrow range of frequencies. The bridge method's measurement frequency range is approximately 300-MHz DC.
The maximum frequency extension of network analyzers now extends into the sub-THz band (220 GHz). This is because it is predicted that the next generation communication standard, 6G, will most likely use the 140 GHz band, known as the D-band.
However, because of its high frequency, the sub-THz band is susceptible to electrical length errors, parasitic elements, and other measurement discontinuities, making total calibration accuracy, including that of the RF probe tips and cables, extremely important.
In reality, the frequency range that can be calibrated at one time is often limited, and manufacturers are competing to develop easy-to-use measuring instruments, including the handling of data between calibrations and the addition of frequency extenders dedicated to the millimeter wave band.
Generally speaking, Network analyzers are used to evaluate the impedance of DUTs and S-parameters, which are small signals. Therefore, models that enable network analyzers to perform modulation analysis, which is mainly handled by conventional spectrum analyzers, are gradually being released. With wireless technologies on the increase, the ability to examine complex RF (Radio Frequency) bands is an essential feature, one worth integrating into a Network Analyzer.
In the future, network analyzers will be used not only for impedance and S-parameter evaluation but also for evaluating switches, filters, high-frequency (RF) amplifiers, low-noise amplifiers (LNA), and other RF front ends, including large-signal analysis and modulation analysis.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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With over 35 years of experience, Algodue Elettronica has specialized in the design and manufacture of instruments for the measurement of energy, the monitor of electrical usage, and the analysis of energy power quality for low voltage systems. Starting with the in-house development of our products, we provide technical knowledge and consulting service to research and realize custom-made solutions according to special requirements. Every instrument from Algodue product range allows an efficient and performative measurement of power consumption, and establish the actions needed to reduce energy costs. Each instrument covers multiple requirements coming from the main sectors like industry, manufacturing, commercial, residential, and the ever-increasing renewable energies. Algodue supports all customers with a dedicated team of specialized technicians and engineers for pre-sale consultancy service for device adaptation and design of specific projects, and after-sale activities to follow every request of support and service. We invest 10% of our yearly profit on research and innovation,to guarantee customers with always up-to-date solutions in line with the latest market trends.
L-com was founded in 1982 and is headquartered in North Andover, Massachusetts. The company serves many industries including electronics, medical, industrial automation, military, and telecommunications a manufacturer and servicer of wired and wireless communications products. The company’s custom product capabilities include customized cable assemblies, WiFi antennas, adapters, and surge protectors. Through its parent company, Infinite Electronics, the company offers a broad range of RF components and assemblies to over 100,000 global customers.
Teledyne LeCroy was founded in 1964 and is headquartered in Chestnut Ridge, New York, with sales, service, and development subsidiaries in the US and throughout Europe and Asia. The company serves a wide variety of industries including semiconductor & computer, consumer electronics, automotive, and telecommunications. The company’s product categories include oscilloscopes, electronic test equipment, protocol analysis solutions such as SATA and USB devices, modular data acquisition devices, and sensors and calibrators. The company provides services such as SSD testing, automotive and device interoperability testing, and technology training.
Rohde and Shwarz, headquartered in Munich, Germany, is a technology business that creates, develops, and promotes innovative information and communication technology products for professionals. Customers all over the world rely on Rohde & Schwarz and its cutting-edge solutions in the test & measurement, secure communications, networks & cybersecurity, and broadcast & media areas. They were created in 1993 and have regional hubs in Asia and the United States.Rohde & Schwarz has invested heavily in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, the industrial internet of things (IIoT), 6G, cloud solutions, and quantum technology.
Digilent Inc. established in Seattle, WA in 2000 is a manufacturer of Test & Measurement Equipment such as USB Oscilloscopes, Analyzers, and Signal Generators, with offices and R&D centers in Washington and Romania. Their product portfolio includes breadboards, power supplies, Microcontrollers, FPGA trainer kits, and Canvases, used in 1000 Universities in more than 70 countries. The company also provides resources for educators such as teaching material, sample labs, and shared curriculums.
Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Austin, TX, National Instruments Corporation provides a software-centric platform and systems to engineers and scientists worldwide. NI’s software is used for automated test and measurement applications in manufacturing environment for configuring real-time testing application, sensor configuration and data logging of mixed signals, and monitoring ancillary rotating equipment. NI’s software also enables the mass coordination of connected devices, software deployments, and data communications throughout distributed systems. Recently, NI has begun to develop test systems and solutions for autonomous driving software and hardware validation.
Spanawave is a manufacturer of radio frequency and microwave solutions for the Test and Measurement needs of Military, Aerospace, Telecom, Industrial, and Scientific Research organizations. The company was founded in 2002 and is based in Roseville, California, with manufacturing facilities in San Ramon, CA. Their products are: various of RF and IF, Assemblies, Transceivers, Test & Measurement Microwave Components, and Test Fixtures from DC to 26GHz. Spanawave also produces the whole line of: Giga-tronics Microwave Power Amplifiers, Power Meters, Sensors, and Network Measurement equipment after purchasing Giga-tronics' Test and Measurement product line.
Keysight Technologies, Inc. was founded in 1939 and headquartered in Santa Rosa, California. Keysight is a global developer and manufacturer of electronic design and test solutions to communications, networking, aerospace, defense, and government, automotive, energy, semiconductor, electronic, and education industries. Keysight’s communications solutions group solutions include electronic design automation software; radio frequency and microwave test solutions, hardware and virtual network test platforms and software applications, as well as optical laser source solutions. Keysight’s electronic industrial solutions group offers various design tools and verification tools. Keysight offers product support, technical support, and training and consulting services. It sells its products through direct sales force, distributors, resellers, and manufacturer's representatives.
Copper Mountain Technologies designs and manufactures equipment for Radio Frequency testing and measuring solution devices for engineers universally. The Organization was incorporated in Indianapolis, USA with offices and service centres located around the globe. The company has an international client base in around hundred countries with more than thousands of customers.They primarily supply vector network analysers for their clients.Their Vector Network Analysers include a Radio Frequency measurement module and a software application which can be used in an external personal computer, laptop or tablet and connects to the measurement hardware via USB interface.
SIGLENT Technologies America, Inc., is a Shenzhen, Guangdong, China-based designer and manufacturer of electronic test and measurement instruments established in 2002. The company offers digital & handheld oscilloscopes, RF & waveform generators, spectrum & vector network analyzers, digital multimeters, and DC electronic loads. These products are used for time domain analysis of RF systems, electromagnetic pre-compliance testing, and SMPS characterization techniques in the communication sector, government facilities, and electronic manufacturing. It has achieved the US UL certification and has additional establishments in Solon, Ohio, USA, and Europe.
DITEL has been a manufacturer and supplier of Led Visualization Solutions since 1984 having its offices in Spain. The company deals in Digital Panel Instrumentation for monitoring and control of industrial processes from any sensor like dashboard indicators, PID regulators, cam switches, level sensors, large alphanumeric, graphic, and number format displays, and many other devices to facilitate communication in large service corporations such as Logistics, Hospitals, Public Administrations, Parking, Financial services, etc.
Anritsu Corporation, established in 1931 and based in Atsugi, Japan, is a manufacturer of electronic measuring instruments, quality assurance systems, and Information and Telecommunication equipment and devices. Its test and measurement products include power meters, power sensors, and conformance test systems, while X-ray inspection systems, metal detectors, and checkweighers ensure food safety and security. Other products like instrumentation-grade adapters and optical sensing equipment are used in IT. The company’s stock was listed in the 2nd section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 1961, and in 1968, it was listed in the 1st section.
SIGLENT Technologies was established in 2002 and is headquartered in Shenzhen, China, and specializes in the design, manufacturing, and supplying of electronic measurement instruments. The company develops oscilloscopes, waveform generators, spectrum analyzers, digital multimeters, and other essential testing equipment. These instruments have various applications and are used by engineers, researchers, educators, and technicians. Their clientele includes research institutions, educational institutions, electronics manufacturers, and service providers. The company also provides solutions to Automotive electronics usually for testing equipment and to Intelligent Manufacturing where it helps with EMI debugging and even IoT industries benefit with aid in the verification of devices.
Red Pitaya, established in 2013 and headquartered in Solkan, Slovenia, is a manufacturer of open-source laboratory equipment and software. The company's products include the STEMlab 125-14 board, the SIGNALlab 250-12 board, and accessories that include logic analyzer extension modules, LCR meter extension modules, and sensor extension modules. These devices are used for applications that include automated testing, remote measurement, and spectrum analyzers. These products are unique in that they can be modified by the user for any purpose and run on the open-source software provided. It serves industries that include automation, automotive, and consumer product manufacturing.
GL Communications Inc., established in 1986 and headquartered in Maryland, USA, is a manufacturer of testing solutions for the telecommunications industry. The company specializes in IP, Ethernet, and optical networks, offering testing solutions for wireless, fiber optic, and traditional landline networks. Its products range from PC-based software tools to hardware-based solutions, enabling conformance, stress/load, and performance testing. The company offers telecom testing solutions, including data quality testing, network analysis, and cellular labs for 2G to 5G technologies. It also provides consulting services covering wireless, T1/E1, and system design for telecommunications companies.
TEKTRONIX, INC., founded in 1946, is a manufacturer of measurement solutions used in 3D sensing, EMI/ EMC testing, high-speed serial communication, material science engineering, and Wireless & RF testing. The products include oscilloscopes & probes, signal generators, margin testers, multimeters, and analyzers. The company's products are used in advanced research, aerospace & defense, automotive, power semiconductor, and medical industries. The Bracknell Berkshire company offers calibration, repair, asset management, package assembling, and testing services following NEMA, HAlT & HASS, environmental, and shock-vibration testing.
Softing Industrial Automation, headquartered in Haar, Germany, is a manufacturer of industrial communication products and technologies for manufacturing and process automation. They offer products such as gateways for multi-protocol process control, network access parallel to the controller and access for controller data, UA software platform, integration platform, and Docker container, providing secure data exchange between different systems and devices. These products are used in various industries such as automotive, industrial, and IT networks.
Shenyang Vhandy Technology Co., Ltd., established in 2012 and based in Shenyang City, China, is a manufacturer and supplier of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). The company's product portfolio includes the CAN Bus Analyzer series, CAN Bus Gateway series, as well as PLC and IO Coupler series. These products are utilized by various industries, including wastewater treatment, food packaging, and building automation. The company offers services, including technical support, product training, and providing user manuals and software downloads to help customers understand and utilize the features of its products.
Pico Technology was established in 1991 and is headquartered in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom where it designs, manufactures, and supplies PC-based test and measurement instruments. The company deals in data acquisition, oscilloscopes, and automotive diagnostics with various test and measurement instruments, including oscilloscopes, data loggers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and automotive diagnostics tools. The products help engineers, scientists, researchers, and technicians capture, analyze, and interpret signals and data in various applications. The company also collaborates with academic and research organizations besides aerospace, telecommunications, electronics, and manufacturing industries.
Value Tronics International Inc., founded in 1992 and based in Elgin, Illinois, is a distributor of a wide range of equipment, such as signal generators, power supplies, and spectrum analyzers. The company stocks over 8,000 products, including used and new equipment from over 300 manufacturers like Berkeley Varitronics, Compression Techniques, and Delta Elektronika. It also buys obsolete and unused testing and lab equipment, which includes meters, oscilloscopes, and data loggers. The company provides financing options that allow customers to pay for purchases later. It also has a loyalty program where customers earn a 2% credit after a purchase.
Gao Tek Inc., started in 2001, and headquartered in Manhattan, New York, is a supplier of test and measurement equipment like embedded development tools, electronic measurement instruments, and telecommunication testers. The company is a B2B tech supplier that also stocks drone products, commercial gas detectors, and transceivers and is incorporated in the USA and Canada. It provides a one-year product warranty against defective material or workmanship and offers overnight delivery in the continental USA and Canada. It is a member of the GAO group and has served customers in over 50 countries worldwide.
Ranking as of October 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | Anritsu |
15.6%
|
2 | National Instruments Corp. |
11.5%
|
3 | Spanawave Corporation |
9.6%
|
4 | Pico Technology Limited |
7.4%
|
5 | Digital Signal Technology, inc. |
5.7%
|
6 | Copper Mountain Technologies |
5.3%
|
7 | Digilent Inc. |
4.1%
|
8 | Keysight Technologies |
4.1%
|
9 | Softing Industrial Automation GmbH |
4.1%
|
10 | Diseños y Tecnología |
3.6%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the network analyzer page as of October 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
United States of America | 8 | 47.1% |
China | 3 | 17.6% |
Spain | 2 | 11.8% |
Japan | 2 | 11.8% |
Italy | 1 | 5.9% |
United Kingdom | 1 | 5.9% |
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■ Characteristics ・ Frequency range: 9kHz ~ 8.5GHz ・ Output level setting range: -55dbm ~+10dbm ・ Dynamic range 125db ・ Corresponds to measurem...