Ten-Tec is now producing a low-cost vector network analyzer that may be of interest to experimenters. The Model 6000 VNA has a frequency range of 200 kHz to 120 MHz and makes one-port and two-port measurements, including forward/reverse gain and phase response measurements. It also works as a general purpose signal generator. The price is only $655, but does require the use of a PC with a USB port to control the instrument. Currently, only Windows software is available, but they’re working on Linux software.
The VNA was designed by TAPR member Tom McDermott, N5EG, and Karl Ireland, and is manufactured and marketed under license by TEN-TEC. A complete circuit description and theory of operation is available online (in PDF format). For more information, go to the Ten-Tec website.
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