Vector Field Analyzer™

RF performance advantages

The Vector Field Analyzer™ provides the best RF performance characteristics for measuring electromagnetic fields. In these measurements, Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is a key characteristic to determining uncertainty and measurement speed. The inherently low noise floor of the Vector Field Analyzer™ provides high SNR, resulting in more accurate measurements. Its low noise floor also allows the use of wider IF bandwidths than other instruments for a given SNR. With a 10 dB lower inherent noise floor, a factor of 10 times wider IF bandwidth can be used, resulting in 10 times faster measurement speed. The superior dynamic range and sensitivity of the VFA significantly enhances flexibility and productivity for test ranges.

Acquisition coordination

Radiating fields propagate in three-dimensional space, requiring positioning systems to change the orientation of the probe and/or the device under test. For highest range productivity, one or more axes are moved while fields are being measured. This requires coordination between the test instrumentation and the positioning system. As the probe or antenna under test is moved, each vector field measurement can be associated with a specific location in space. Maximizing the axis speed demands instrumentation with superior measurement speed, data buffering capability, and high continuous throughput.

Many systems also require multi-frequency operation and real-time control of multiplexers for antennas with multiple ports. NSI-MI's Multiplexer products support up to 256 ports per channel. Controlling and synchronizing these test parameters with measurements requires a flexible acquisition controller with precise timing. The Vector Field Analyzer™ is the instrument that best supports the requirements of the electromagnetic test environment and provides the ideal solution for your measurement needs.