Rohde and Schwarz ZNL3 - Vector Network Analyzer (5 kHz to 3 GHz)

The R&S ZNL combines the functionality of a vector network analyzer, a spectrum analyzer and a power meter in a single, compact box. The all-in-one instrument is ideal for environments that involve constantly changing test requirements in development, production and service. Please note, the spectrum analyzer and power meter are optional items.

Instead of investing in multiple instruments, research labs, service centers, universities and production facilities can benefit from a single, compact instrument that offers even higher measurement speed and better RF performance than dedicated instruments in comparable classes.

The instrument simultaneously displays vector network analysis and spectrum analysis measurements on its 10.1" multitouch screen. Clear menu structures and numerous wizards make measurements convenient to configure.

Although the R&S ZNL hosts a variety of different functionalities, it is a very compact instrument with an attractive form factor. With a weight of only 6 kg to 8 kg, a carrying handle and an optional battery pack, the R&S ZNL is fully portable and can be operated wherever needed.

Comparison of footprint of different VNAs

Compact vector network analyzer

Vector network analyzers such as the R&S ZNL can characterize electronic networks in the frequency domain, e.g. by measuring the magnitude and phase of S‑parameters. Components can also be analyzed in the time domain with the R&S ZNL-K2 option.

High dynamic range

The R&S ZNL features a wide dynamic range of up to 130 dB (typ. at 10 Hz IFBW) and an output power of typ. 3 dBm. These values facilitate measurements on high rejection filters that call for a wide dynamic range.

Low trace noise for high accuracy

The R&S ZNL offers low trace noise of less than 0.0005 dB (typ. at 10 kHz IFBW). This delivers stable, re-producible and precise measurements even at higher IF bandwidths. Using higher IF bandwidths, the R&S ZNL can perform faster measurements while maintaining the stability normally only achieved with narrower IF bandwidths.

Fast measurements for high throughput

With measurement times of e.g. 16.7 ms for 401 points (full two-port calibration, 200 MHz span, 100 kHz IFBW), high-speed data processing and fast LAN or IEC/IEEE/GPIB data transfer, the R&S ZNL meets the speed requirements encountered in production. Throughput can be maximized by using the segmented sweep function. Here, the frequency axis is divided into segments, and sweep parameters such as output power, IF bandwidth and number of points can be defined separately for each segment to optimally match the DUT characteristics. This increases measurement speed without any loss in accuracy.

Versatile calibration features, support for calibration units

The R&S ZNL calibration wizard guides users through the calibration process. Manual calibration kits and automatic calibration units are supported. Using a calibration unit minimizes the time needed to perform full system error correction. The calibration unit is ready for use right after it is connected to the R&S ZNL. Calibrating a setup takes just a few steps. This is especially advantageous in production environments, helping to save time and maximize throughput. The calibration unit performs calibration with a single click on the "Start Auto Cal" button.

Remote control via LAN and optional GPIB interface

The R&S ZNL can be remotely controlled via its standard LAN interface. The optional GPIB interface can be used to connect a controller for remote control of the R&S ZNL. Data is transmitted bi-directionally on the 8-bit parallel bus. The data measured during a sweep is transferred to the controller while the next sweep is in progress. As a result, data transfer time on the R&S ZNL is virtually negligible.

Time domain analysis and distance-to-fault (DTF) measurements

The R&S ZNL offers powerful time domain analysis (ZNL-K2 option) to measure components such as filters and high-speed digital data cables in the frequency and time domain.

With 100001 points per trace, the R&S ZNL can measure electrically long DUTs such as long cables without any limitations. The gating function of the R&S ZNL makes it easy to locate cable faults and analyze them in detail.

The distance-to-fault measurements option (ZNL-K3) allows the detection of cable discontinuities, which is important for base station antenna installation, for example. Users can select from a range of common cable types with pre-defined velocity factor and frequency dependent attenuation, or create their own cable profiles. The R&S ZNL-K2 and R&S ZNL-K3 options use internal DC extrapolation. The low start frequency of 5 kHz is helpful as it provides improved accuracy.

Fully integrated spectrum analyzer

Different modes of operation turn the R&S ZNL vector network analyzer into a versatile multipurpose instrument. The B1 hardware option extends the base unit with a fully integrated spectrum analyzer on a dedicated hardware board. There is no need to reboot the instrument in order to switch between different modes.

Please note, the spectrum analyzer function is an optional item and the part numbers are model specific, as can be seen below:

• ZNL3-B1
• ZNL4-B1
• ZNL6-B1

Integrated hardware for solid RF performance

This option provides dedicated hardware boards, delivering performance comparable to that of pure spectrum analyzers in the economy and midrange classes. The R&S ZNL equipped with the spectrum analyzer hardware features a phase noise of typ. -108 dBc (1 Hz) at 10 kHz offset, a third-order intercept point of typ. +20 dBm, and a displayed average noise level (DANL) of typ. -150 dBm.

Digital demodulation

The R&S ZNL equipped with the -B1 option can analyze and demodulate digitally modulated single-carrier signals with up to 40 MHz analysis bandwidth. The R&S ZNL receives and digitizes the signal, which is then analyzed by the R&S VSE vector signal explorer software with the R&S VSE-K70 and/or R&S VSE-K106 option. The software runs directly on the R&S ZNL or an external PC.

RF Power Meter

The R&S FPL1-K9 option adds support for R&S NRP power sensors, enabling precise power measurements. This application requires the R&S ZNL3-B1, R&S ZNL4-B1 or R&S ZNL6-B1 spectrum analyzer option to be installed.

Power sensors can be connected via USB or via the ruggedized power sensor connector included in the R&S FPL1-B5 additional interfaces option.

Up to four power sensors can be connected in parallel. Power sensors can also be used to trigger measurements at defined power levels.

Please click here to view a full list of sensors supported by the FPL1-K9 option.

Fully portable - ideal for field use

Due to its unique hardware concept, the R&S ZNL combines multiple functionalities in a compact form factor. Its weight is correspondingly low. Depending on the options installed, the R&S ZNL weighs between 6 kg and 8 kg.

Battery and DC power supply for field use

With a carrying handle and an optional battery pack (FPL1-B31), the R&S ZNL is a fully portable instrument ideal for field use.

The optional 12 V/24 V DC power supply (R&S FPL1-B30) is available for operation of the R&S ZNL in vehicles.

Accessories for transport and field use

For transport and field deployment of the R&S ZNL, the optional R&S FPL1-Z2 transport bag protects the instrument against damage and the ingress of dirt. Side vents and a transparent top cover allow portable operation while the instrument is safely stored in the bag. A carrying vest holster (FPL1-Z3 option) is also available.

For outdoor use in challenging light conditions, the instrument display can be equipped with an anti-glare film (R&S FPL1-Z5 option). This improves the contrast of the display and protects the screen against scratches.

Clearly structured user interface