Measure Electromagnetic Fields with the Vector Field Analyzer
Author: Bruce Williams
Publication: Microwave Journal
Copyright Owner: NSI-MI Technologies
As wireless technology has evolved, the industry has integrated more “domains of control” to make useful measurements. The power meter can be triggered to measure at will; time is a controlled parameter. The spectrum analyzer integrates both time and frequency control. The SNA incorporates time and frequency control for both source and receiver, but also includes the added dimension of multiple measurement channels. Finally, the VNA includes all these as well as the ability to make coherent (amplitude/phase) measurements. There is one common factor among these measurement devices: They all center on measurement of microwave signals at ports, fixed connection points on the test article.
In keeping with the evolution of wireless technology, AMETEK NSI-MI has recently introduced a new instrument type, the Vector Field Analyzer (VFA). Like the other instruments, the VFA can measure signals at fixed ports, but its unique strength is its ability to make accurate electromagnetic (EM) field measurements. The VFA seamlessly blends multi-channel vector (amplitude/phase) electrical measurements with wide-band agile frequency control, 10-nanosecond precise timing, and convenient integration of complex device control schemes within the measurement flow. More importantly, the VFA precisely coordinates electrical measurements with spatial (position) measurements for complete understanding of three-dimensional EM fields.
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