Anritsu Co. introduces the MN469xA series 4-port test sets for use with its VectorStar MS4640A vector network analyzer (VNA). The development of the MN469xA series takes advantage of VectorStar’s 70 GHz high-performance, proven switching technology to produce the high accuracy and wide dynamic range necessary to conduct 16 fully corrected S-parameter measurements with speed and accuracy.


The MN469xA has been developed for today’s highly integrated multiport assemblies and common three-port devices, such as combiners, diplexers and couplers. The configuration is also well suited for measuring balanced 2-port devices, such as high-speed transmission line backplanes, connectors, cables, balanced amplifiers, baluns and transceivers. Measurements can be made in 30 us/point with high accuracy, making the solution ideal for both R&D and manufacturing environments.

The VectorStar multiport solution provides 10 MHz to 20/40/70 GHz 4-port capability using an external test set driven by the base VNA. This flexibility allows the removal of the test set for uncompromised 2-port measurements or for use with multiple VNAs. The architecture is ideal for single-ended devices, balanced passive devices and balanced linear active devices.

The MN469xA brings the inherent advantages of VectorStar to multiport applications. The MS4640A delivers 2-port best-in-class frequency coverage of 70 kHz to 70 GHz, dynamic range of 103 dB at 67 GHz, and measurement speed of 20 us/point to establish a new performance benchmark for S-parameter measurements on RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave devices. VectorStar’s 100 dB dynamic range at 70 GHz creates accuracy never before seen in a microwave VNA.

Supplementing the wide dynamic range is the MS4640A’s excellent receiver compression level. It has a receiver with a +10 dBm 0.1 dB compression level at 70 GHz. With Precision AutoCal for 70 kHz to 40 or 70 GHz calibrations, residual directivity of 42 dB can be achieved at 70 GHz, and up to 50 dB at 20 GHz. This type of performance allows devices to be more tightly specified with greater confidence.

The real measurement speed of 20 us/point is achieved without any restrictions typically found in traditional VNAs. This type of performance allows the MS4640A to acquire the data necessary for the best device characterizations over multiple physical and environmental conditions, drive levels, or frequency ranges.

The MN469xA series test set has a starting US price of $40,000. Delivery is 10 weeks ARO.