This topic describes how to setup a Keysight Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) to make S21 measurements on an array of antennas. Measurements can be made on up to 100 antenna arrays (Ports) and up to 15 discrete frequencies
The VNA is set to a start frequency.
As the antenna moves, the VNA responds to each external trigger signal by measuring an antenna port.
When all ports are measured, the VNA increments to the next frequency
Again the VNA measures all ports, and so forth until all ports are measured at all frequencies in the forward direction.
As the antenna begins moving in the opposite direction, the same sequence occurs, except the VNA decrements in frequency until all ports are measured at all frequencies and the VNA is set back to the original start frequency.
Once setup, only external trigger signals are sent to the VNA. After each trigger, measurement data is stored in internal VNA memory.
Press Preset
Press Trigger > Main > Trigger Source > External
Press Trigger > Main > Trigger
In the Trigger dialog under Trigger Scope, select Channel
Click OK
Forward Sweep
Press Trace > Trace N > Trace N to add a new trace.
Press Trace > Trace Setup > Measure....
Select S21 then Channel Number 1
Press Trigger > Main > Trigger
In the Trigger dialog under Channel Trigger State, set the Trigger Mode to Point
Click OK
Press Sweep > Main > Sweep Type > Segment Sweep
Click OK
Press Sweep > Segment Table > Insert Segment
Do this 15 times
For each Segment in the Segment table:
Click State:and select ON
Click both START and STOP Frequency: (each new segment ascends in frequency)
Click Points: type Number of Ports (elements)
Reverse sweep
Repeat the following steps for each frequency: (up to 15)
Increment the channel number (X) Starting with Channel 2
Decrement the frequency (F)
Press Trace > Trace N > Trace N to add a new trace.
Press Trace > Trace Setup > Measure....
Click S21 then Channel Number X
When a window contains four traces, press Trace > Trace Setup > Add Trace > New Trace + Window.
Click OK
Press Trigger > Main > Trigger
In the Trigger dialog under Channel Trigger State, set the Trigger Mode to Point
Click OK
Press Sweep > Main > Sweep Type > Segment Sweep
Click OK
Press Sweep > Segment Table
In the Segment table
Click State:and select ON
Click both START and STOP Frequency F
Click Points: type Number of Ports (elements)