Tektronix has launched the TTR500 Series USB Vector Network Analyser (VNA), which is a USB-based radio frequency (RF) test instrument. The TTR500 Series delivers an unmatched combination of low price and performance, and has a 40 per cent lower cost than alternatives capable of matching its 122 dB dynamic range and 6 GHz frequency range. It also includes advanced features such as the new VectorVu-PC analysis software and the built-in bias tee for testing active devices in this category. The TTR500 series comes with an easy-to-use user interface for conducting common tasks. Moreover, its small and compact form factor eliminates the need to use a shared VNA.
The TTR500 series offers a full 2-port, 2-path S-parameter VNA for measuring passive/active components, antennas and matching networks, RF modules, test cables, adapters, etc. Its specifications include a 100 kHz to 6 GHz frequency range, a 122 dB dynamic range, less than 0.008 dB trace noise, and -50 to +7 dBm output power. An important feature of the TTR500 is the built-in bias tee that is accessible on both ports and allows active devices, such as amplifiers, to be easily direct current (DC) biased. Moreover, the TTR500 works with any Windows PC or laptop and comes with a set of accessories including a rugged carrying case, rackmount kits, rugged phase-stable cables, attenuators, adapters and calibration kits.
According to Tektronix, the innovative architecture and disaggregated design of the TTR500 achieves the same level of performance as a benchtop VNA, but at 40 per cent lower cost and one-seventh the size and weight of units with a comparable performance. This new architecture also reduces the component count and complexity, resulting in more reliability as compared to benchtop VNAs.
