Frequency range converter modules 50–178.4 GHz for vector network analyzers

Modern research and development in the microwave frequency range require metrological-grade measuring equipment with a dynamic range exceeding 100 dB and the ability to adjust output power. VECTORseries frequency range converter modules for vector network analyzers have been developed and manufactured. The VECTOR frequency range converter modules operate in the following frequency ranges: 50–75; 53.57–78.33; 75–110; 78.33–118.1; 110–170; 118.1–178.4 GHz. The structural diagram of the developed frequency range converter modules is described. The frequency range converter modules provide extension of the upper frequency limit of the vector network analyzer when used for measurements of complex transmission and reflection coefficients (scattering matrix elements) of multiport devices. A vector network analyzer with connected frequency range converter modules forms a unified measurement system. Investigation of the VECTOR-series frequency range converter modules characteristics has shown that the VECTOR modules for frequency ranges 50–75; 75–110; 110–170 GHz have typical output power and operational dynamic range of 15 dBm (31.6 mW) and 125 dB; 11 dBm (12.6 mW) and 120 dB; 1 dBm (1.3 mW) and 110 dB, respectively. The developed frequency range converter modules are compatible with Russian vector network analyzers as well as with foreign counterparts from Rohde&Schwarz GmbH&Co KG (Munich, Germany) and Keysight Technologies (Santa Rosa, USA). A comparative analysis of the presented frequency range converter modules with the modules from Virginia Diodes (Charlottesville, USA), specifically the WR15VNA series, and from Ceyear Technologies, series 3643NA (Qingdao, China), shows that the output power and dynamic range of the developed devices are on par with those of foreign equivalents. The main application areas of vector network analyzers with frequency range converter modules include testing, tuning, and development of various radio frequency devices in industrial production environments and laboratories, including automated measuring stands.

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