8-Port VNA extension unit

$0.00

VNA Extension Unit – Multi-Port Expansion for High-Frequency Measurement (10 kHz to 52 GHz)

Our VNA Extension Unit is engineered to expand the capabilities of traditional 2-port Vector Network Analyzers by transforming them into a fully functional 8-port measurement system—all while maintaining excellent signal integrity across a wide frequency range from 10 kHz to 52 GHz. This compact, high-performance accessory is ideal for users who require multi-port testing without investing in a dedicated multi-port VNA (which can run many tens of thousands of dollars).

Purpose and Function

The VNA Extension Unit enables seamless port expansion by integrating a carefully designed cascade of solid-state RF switches. Through precision engineering and low-loss architecture, the unit effectively multiplies a 2-port VNA into eight selectable ports, allowing users to connect and characterize a broader set of devices or multi-port components with the equipment they already own.

Port selection and measurement routing are fully controllable via Python-based programming, enabling automated test sequences, rapid configuration changes, and integration into custom workflows or production environments.

Low-Loss Architecture and High Signal Integrity

The extension unit uses multiple layers of high-isolation, solid-state switches arranged to minimize insertion loss and preserve measurement accuracy at high frequencies. The last layer of switches—closest to the output ports—includes integrated 50-ohm, open, and short standards, ensuring:

  • Consistent and reliable calibration

  • Long-term stability of the measurement reference plane

  • Maintained signal integrity even with repetitive switching and extended use

This built-in calibration capability helps users achieve confidence in their S-parameter results over time without requiring external fixtures or constant recalibration.

Wide Operating Temperature Range

Designed for rugged test environments, production lines, and field applications, the unit operates reliably across a broad temperature range of –40°C to +105°C, ensuring stable performance even in demanding conditions.

Key Features:

  • Expands a 2-port VNA to 8 usable test ports

  • Wideband operation: 10 kHz to 52 GHz

  • Python-controlled port switching for automation and scripting

  • Low-loss, solid-state switching architecture for high-accuracy measurements

  • Integrated 50Ω, open, and short elements for stable, repeatable calibration

  • Rugged, temperature-stable design for –40°C to 105°C operation

  • Ideal for multi-port device testing, automated test systems, phased arrays, and R&D labs

  • Controllable from python using a standalone Qubit Microwave driver board or other microcontrollers systems.

setup options:

VNA Extension Unit – Multi-Port Expansion for High-Frequency Measurement (10 kHz to 52 GHz)

Our VNA Extension Unit is engineered to expand the capabilities of traditional 2-port Vector Network Analyzers by transforming them into a fully functional 8-port measurement system—all while maintaining excellent signal integrity across a wide frequency range from 10 kHz to 52 GHz. This compact, high-performance accessory is ideal for users who require multi-port testing without investing in a dedicated multi-port VNA (which can run many tens of thousands of dollars).

Purpose and Function

The VNA Extension Unit enables seamless port expansion by integrating a carefully designed cascade of solid-state RF switches. Through precision engineering and low-loss architecture, the unit effectively multiplies a 2-port VNA into eight selectable ports, allowing users to connect and characterize a broader set of devices or multi-port components with the equipment they already own.

Port selection and measurement routing are fully controllable via Python-based programming, enabling automated test sequences, rapid configuration changes, and integration into custom workflows or production environments.

Low-Loss Architecture and High Signal Integrity

The extension unit uses multiple layers of high-isolation, solid-state switches arranged to minimize insertion loss and preserve measurement accuracy at high frequencies. The last layer of switches—closest to the output ports—includes integrated 50-ohm, open, and short standards, ensuring:

  • Consistent and reliable calibration

  • Long-term stability of the measurement reference plane

  • Maintained signal integrity even with repetitive switching and extended use

This built-in calibration capability helps users achieve confidence in their S-parameter results over time without requiring external fixtures or constant recalibration.

Wide Operating Temperature Range

Designed for rugged test environments, production lines, and field applications, the unit operates reliably across a broad temperature range of –40°C to +105°C, ensuring stable performance even in demanding conditions.

Key Features:

  • Expands a 2-port VNA to 8 usable test ports

  • Wideband operation: 10 kHz to 52 GHz

  • Python-controlled port switching for automation and scripting

  • Low-loss, solid-state switching architecture for high-accuracy measurements

  • Integrated 50Ω, open, and short elements for stable, repeatable calibration

  • Rugged, temperature-stable design for –40°C to 105°C operation

  • Ideal for multi-port device testing, automated test systems, phased arrays, and R&D labs

  • Controllable from python using a standalone Qubit Microwave driver board or other microcontrollers systems.

DP8T Features

Insertion loss and isolation of the VNA extender unit. The VNA extension unit consists of an array of switches combined with 50-Ohm transmission lines. For calibration and fidelity measurement purpuses the last switching stage includes an internal open, short, and 50 Ohm load.