The Rohde & Schwarz ZVL3 is a 2-port vector network analyzer spanning 9 kHz to 3 GHz, engineered for RF characterization across development, production, and field service. It integrates network analysis, optional spectrum analysis, and power meter capability into a single portable instrument weighing less than 7 kg. The bidirectional test set captures all four S-parameters without reconnecting the device under test, supporting measurement bandwidths from 10 Hz to 500 kHz with dynamic range exceeding 115 dB at 10 Hz bandwidth (typically 123 dB). Output power delivers > 0 dBm, typically +10 dBm.
Technical Specifications
Frequency & Performance
• Frequency range: 9 kHz to 3 GHz
• Measurement bandwidths: 10 Hz to 500 kHz (1/2/5 steps)
• Dynamic range (10 Hz bandwidth): > 115 dB, typically 123 dB
• Output power: > 0 dBm, typically +10 dBm
• Measurement time (201 points): < 75 ms
Measurement Capability
• Ports: 2 (bidirectional test set)
• S-parameters: All 4 supported (S11, S21, S12, S22)
• Measurement points: 201 standard; 2 to 4001 per trace
• Output formats: Smith chart, inverted Smith chart, magnitude/phase, polar, real/imaginary, group delay, VSWR
• Trace capacity: Up to 100 traces (multitrace display)
• Trace evaluation: 10 ranges (max, min, RMS, mean, std dev, electrical length, phase delay)
• Additional analysis: Impedance, admittance, stability, filter evaluation, distance-to-fault, time domain
Physical & Connectivity
• Weight: < 7 kg
• Depth: 37 cm
• Data transfer (201 points via RSIB/100 Mbit/s LAN): 1.5 ms
• Battery operation: Optional internal battery; 12 V DC supported
• User interface: Mouse, hardkeys, softkeys; wizards and context menus
• Operating system: Windows XP
– Key Features
• Segmented sweep for optimized measurement in frequency segments (filter tuning, impedance matching)
• Overlay display of multiple traces and channels in single diagram
• Multiport characterization without DUT disconnection
– Typical Applications
Filter and amplifier design; cable and component characterization; impedance matching; device stability assessment; field diagnostics and production testing.
– Compatibility & Integration
Power meter operation available with NRP-Z power sensor. RSIB interface enables remote control and data export via standard LAN (100 Mbit/s).
