VNA Extension Unit – Multi-Port Expansion for High-Frequency Measurement
Our VNA Extension Unit is engineered to expand the capabilities of traditional 2-port Vector Network Analyzers by transforming them into a fully functional 16-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 16 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.
VNA Extension Unit – Multi-Port Expansion for High-Frequency Measurement
Our VNA Extension Unit is engineered to expand the capabilities of traditional 2-port Vector Network Analyzers by transforming them into a fully functional 16-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 16 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.
