Fast Scalar Network Analysis Using a Signal Generator and a Power Meter

This document presents a simple procedure for network analysis that is more cost-effective than the use of scalar network analyzers. It allows the accurate measurement of the transmission characteristics of filters, amplifiers and frequency converters over a large frequency and dynamic range. In order to reach very high measurement speeds, Rohde & Schwarz signal generators are operated in 'List Mode', and Rohde & Schwarz power meters are operated in 'Buffered Mode.' The required programming for the signal gene­rator and the power meter is illustrated by excerpts from a Visual Basic program which is available, free of charge, upon request.