Anritsu Lightning Vector Network Analyzers

6 models with full specifications from Anritsu.

The Anritsu Lightning family of Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) comprises high-performance instruments designed for measuring S-parameters on active and passive microwave components. Starting at a minimum frequency of 40 MHz, the various models in this family span maximum frequencies of 20 GHz, 40 GHz, or 65 GHz. Engineered for technical buyers and microwave testing engineers, these instruments are categorized across standard, Premium, and Economy classes. This guide outlines the key performance metrics, configuration differences, and calibration options across the 37300C generation and individual D-series and A-series models.

Minimum Frequency
40 MHz
Maximum Frequency
65 GHz
Frequency Resolution
1 Hz
Number of Ports
2
Nominal Impedance
50 Ω

Models in this series

ModelTypeDimensions (W×H×D)DisplayFrequency Resolution
37369CMicrowave1 Hz
37397CVector432 mm × 267 mm × 584 mm8.4-inch active-matrix color LCD
37369AVector426 mm × 222 mm × 508 mm7.5-inch active-matrix color LCD1 Hz
37369DVector432 mm × 222 mm × 584 mmColor Active Matrix LCD1 Hz
37247DVector426 mm × 222 mm × 533 mmColor Active Matrix TFT LCD1 Hz
37397DMicrowave432 mm × 267 mm × 584 mm8.4-inch active matrix color TFT LCD1 Hz

Frequency Coverage and Port Configurations

The Lightning series models are primarily distinguished by their maximum operating frequencies to suit specific test applications. The Anritsu 37247D serves applications up to 20 GHz. For higher-frequency requirements, the Anritsu 37369A, Anritsu 37369C, and Anritsu 37369D operate up to 40 GHz. The broadest frequency coverage is provided by the Anritsu 37397C and Anritsu 37397D, which extend measurements up to 65 GHz.

Port connector types match these frequency demands. The 40 GHz models utilize 2.92 mm compatible K connectors, configured as male on the Anritsu 37369A and female on the Anritsu 37369D. The 65 GHz models utilize 1.85 mm compatible V connectors, with the Anritsu 37397C featuring male connectors and the Anritsu 37397D featuring female connectors.

Hardware Configurations and Interface Options

Hardware options and chassis designs evolved across the different generations of the Lightning series. The earlier Anritsu 37369A features a 7.5-inch active-matrix color LCD, two PCMCIA slots, and dual GPIB ports. Within the 37300C series, the Anritsu 37369C integrates a 3.5-inch MS-DOS compatible floppy disk drive, and the Anritsu 37397C features an 8.4-inch active-matrix color LCD, dual GPIB, and a PS/2 keyboard interface.

The D-series models introduce updated connectivity and integration. The Anritsu 37247D, Anritsu 37369D, and Anritsu 37397D feature 10BASE-T LAN interfaces alongside standard GPIB and serial ports. The Anritsu 37369D includes standard source and test port step attenuators, standard internal bias tees, and support for E/O and O/E measurements. The Anritsu 37397D provides internal storage consisting of both a hard disk drive and a 3.5-inch floppy drive.

Measurement Accuracy and Calibration Methods

All models in this series support high-resolution S-parameter measurements (S11, S21, S12, S22). The Anritsu 37369C offers a magnitude resolution of 0.001 dB and a phase resolution of 0.01°, with an averaging range from 1 to 4096. Calibration options also vary: the Anritsu 37369C supports SOLT, TRL, LRL, and LRM methods, while the Anritsu 37397D supports SOLT, LRL, LRM, TRM, and Offset Short calibration.

For advanced applications, the Anritsu 37247D and Anritsu 37369D standard software supports multiple source control, frequency offset modes, and E/O and O/E measurements. The Anritsu 37247D additionally includes an NxN Calibration Utility for mixer measurements and an embed/de-embed application.

Frequently asked questions

Which Lightning VNA models include a high stability frequency reference as standard?
The Anritsu 37247D and Anritsu 37397D include a high-stability frequency reference as a standard feature. For the Anritsu 37369D, a high-stability frequency reference is optional via Option 10.
What are the physical weight differences between these VNAs?
The physical weight of the instruments varies by model. The Anritsu 37247D weighs 22.0 kg, the Anritsu 37369A weighs 23 kg, and the Anritsu 37397D weighs 27 kg.