Development of Network Analyzer Sharing System with Multi-User Access

We presented a network analyzer sharing system that allows multiple user to access a single vector network analyzer. The system consists of hardware that is switching module to extend two-port VNA into multiple ports and software that distributes measurement signals eight port. The hardware uses SP4T switches to simplify the system. The software uses an automatic channel switching time setting algorithm to prevent signal distortion or abnormal signals. To validate this system, we conducted an experiment measuring a device under test. Experimental results validate the measurement performance of the sharing system.

I. Introduction

The demand for RF devices and components is increasing significantly due to the widespread deployment of 5G communication environments. These components and devices require precise measurement and characterization using measurement equipment. Vector network analyzer (VNA) is a typical measurement equipment used to characterize circuits and devices at radio, microwave, millimeter wave, and submillimeter wave frequencies. However, VNA has the disadvantages of being bulky, expensive, and limited to a single user. To address these limitations, various approaches have been proposed to enhance the number of ports in the network analyzer [1]–[7]. Currently, not only two-port VNAs, but also four-, six-, and more multi-port VNAs are commercially available. However, multi-port systems necessitate the use of high-speed switching and proper calibration techniques, which increases the complexity of the system. Consequently, the multi-port approach may result in increased costs. The majority of work environments and RF laboratories are typically equipped with two-port VNA.