The Rohde & Schwarz ZVK is a four-channel vector network analyzer delivering S-parameter and group delay measurements across 10 MHz to 40 GHz, with optional configurations extending the lower frequency limit to 10 Hz. Built for laboratory and production characterization of RF components and systems, the instrument combines fast measurement speed, wide dynamic range, and flexible calibration methods to support demanding S-parameter, antenna, RCS, and nonlinear device testing.
Technical Specifications
The ZVK operates from 10 MHz to 40 GHz with 100 µHz frequency resolution and 50 Ω impedance. Test ports accept PC 3.5 male and 2.92 mm male connectors. Measurement time is <0.5 ms/point or <0.7 ms/point depending on configuration. Output power ranges from +5 dBm or 0 dBm down to −85 dBm, with optional attenuators extending range to −90 dBm. Power uncertainty is <1 dB to 2 dB. Dynamic range exceeds 85 dB at 10 Hz IF bandwidth below 0.5 GHz, with some configurations achieving ≥110 dB. Inherent noise floor is <−110 dBm. Measurement bandwidths span 1 Hz to 10 kHz in 9 steps, plus 26 kHz. Maximum input power at PORT 1/2 reaches +27 dBm with optional attenuators installed.
– Key Features
• Four-channel architecture: two measurement and two reference channels
• Patent-pending calibration methods: TOM, TRM, TNA, TOM-X, and AutoKal
• Optional step attenuators (ZVK-B21 to -B24) provide 0–70 dB attenuation in 10 dB steps for generator and receiver paths
• Inherent measurement capabilities for pulsed signals, conversion loss, intermodulation, and spurious response
• Internal PC with optional Ethernet connectivity (ZVK-B16)
• IEC/IEEE interface support via option ZVK-B17
– Typical Applications
• S-parameter and group delay characterization
• Frequency-converting device measurements (conversion loss, intermodulation, spurious)
• Nonlinear parameter extraction (intercept point, compression point)
• Antenna and RCS measurements
• Pulsed signal analysis
– Compatibility & Integration
Mixer measurements (option ZVK-B4), nonlinear measurements (ZVK-B5), power calibration (ZVK-B7), virtual embedding networks (ZVK-K9), and time-domain measurements (ZVK-B2) extend measurement scope. Detailed operating manuals cover setup, operation, measurement analysis, troubleshooting, remote control, and maintenance.
