Rohde & Schwarz ZVB Series Vector Network Analyzers
2 models with full specifications from Rohde & Schwarz.
The Rohde & Schwarz ZVB Series of vector network analyzers (VNAs) is designed for universal measurements on both active and passive RF components. This family is optimized for multiport characterization and balanced device testing. Operating on a Windows-based platform and featuring a 10.4-inch color TFT display, the series includes models that accommodate different frequency ranges and hardware configurations to suit varying RF design and production environments. This page covers the core capabilities of the ZVB series, detailing the similarities and differences between the ZVB8 and the ZVB20 to help technical buyers and engineers select the appropriate instrument for their measurement requirements.
- Display
- 10.4-inch color TFT
- Number of Test Ports
- 2 or 4 (hardware dependent)
- Measurement Points
- 1 to 20001 per trace
- Measurement Bandwidth
- 1 Hz to 500 kHz (in 1/2/5 steps)
- Test Port Impedance
- 50 Ω
Models in this series
Frequency Coverage and Applications
The primary distinction between the models in this series is their frequency coverage. The ZVB8 covers a frequency range of 300 kHz to 8 GHz with a frequency resolution of 1 Hz. This model is suited for lower-frequency applications, mobile communications, and passive or active component testing within its range.
The ZVB20 expands the frequency range from 10 MHz to 20 GHz with a frequency resolution of 1 Hz and a frequency accuracy of ±1.0 × 10^-6. This makes the ZVB20 suitable for higher-frequency microwave components, radar systems, and high-speed communication hardware.
Port Configurations and Hardware Specifications
Both the ZVB8 and ZVB20 can be configured with either 2 or 4 test ports. On the ZVB20, the 2-port version is equipped with 1 internal source, while the 4-port version features 2 internal sources. Both units maintain a test port impedance of 50 Ω. The ZVB8 features N-type female connectors for its test ports.
In terms of connectivity, the ZVB8 includes standard interfaces such as LAN, GPIB (IEC/IEEE bus), USB, Digital I/O for user control, and an external 15-pin D-Sub VGA port. The ZVB8 is housed in a chassis measuring 440 mm × 230 mm × 350 mm and weighs less than 20 kg.
Measurement Capabilities and Performance
For signal analysis, the ZVB8 provides a dynamic range of greater than 120 dB (typical greater than 130 dB at 10 Hz measurement bandwidth). It has an output power range of -110 dBm to +10 dBm (typical +13 dBm) and achieves a measurement time per point of less than 8 µs at a 500 kHz IF bandwidth.
The ZVB20 offers specialized sweep types, including linear frequency, logarithmic frequency, segmented frequency, and power sweep. It features an electronic power sweep range of greater than 50 dB with a power resolution of 0.01 dB. Corrected system performance parameters for the ZVB20 include a directivity of greater than 45 dB, source match of greater than 40 dB, and load match of greater than 45 dB. It can measure S-parameters (mixed-mode and single-ended), impedance (Z), admittance (Y), and stability factors, displaying results in formats such as Log Magnitude, Phase, Group Delay, Smith Chart, Polar, SWR, Linear Magnitude, Real, and Imaginary.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the measurement speed of the ZVB8?
- The ZVB8 has a measurement time per point of less than 8 µs when set to a 500 kHz IF bandwidth.
- How many internal sources are available on the ZVB20?
- The number of internal sources on the ZVB20 is hardware-dependent: 2-port models contain 1 internal source, whereas 4-port models contain 2 internal sources.
- What parameters can the ZVB20 measure?
- The ZVB20 measures single-ended and mixed-mode S-parameters, impedance (Z), admittance (Y), and stability factors.