Electronics > RF, Microwave, Ham Radio

Which NanoVNA?

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clansd99:
Hi all,

To preface this - I've already done a lot of digging into the different "types" of NanoVNA out there (original, V2, Lite, etc.), but still unsure what the best options are.

I am currently learning RF electronics in school and would like to pick up a VNA to experiment with at home to go along with my coursework.

The LiteVNA 64 seems to be just what I want: high frequencies at a low cost, but I can't find much info on it and want to know more before pulling the trigger.
Is it compatible with other NanoVNA software? Who designs/develops it? Where can I buy one knowing that I won't get a knock-off?
Is it really better than the original and V2?

Thanks for helping a newbie out,
-Chris

Bud:
Why do you want high frequencies? To learn S-Parameters concept and how different types of RF circuits behave a 50 MHz VNA is all you need. This also will MUCH simplify requirements to calibration standards and cabling.

clansd99:
I'm interested in microwave engineering and would like to go down that path once I get the basics down on RF. Already have some projects in mind and figure it's better to spend on a higher frequency VNA now than a second one down the line.

Bud:
OK. But just remember- there is nothing theory-wise different between an RF VNA vs microwave VNA. They both measure the same type of parameters for a DUT ( device under test). The difference is in mechanical and electrical toletances those devices have. With a microwave VNA you spend more money on quality of physical construction and quality and characterisation  of the reference (calibration) standards and quality of (usually coaxial) cabling that you will need to perform repeatable measurements. If you want price reference, a microwave phase stable cable jumper will cost a few hundred dollars. You heard that right, several hundred dollars just for one coax cable.

clansd99:

--- Quote from: Bud on January 27, 2023, 11:09:58 pm ---OK. But just remember- there is nothing theory-wise different between an RF VNA vs microwave VNA. They both measure the same type of parameters for a DUT ( device under test). The difference is in mechanical and electrical toletances those devices have. With a microwave VNA you spend more money on quality of physical construction and quality and characterisation  of the reference (calibration) standards and quality of (usually coaxial) cabling that you will need to perform repeatable measurements. If you want price reference, a microwave phase stable cable jumper will cost a few hundred dollars. You heard that right, several hundred dollars just for one coax cable.

--- End quote ---

Hadn't thought about it that way. The YouTube videos make it look so easy but I don't have that much cash to spend. Will just go ahead and order the NanoVNA-H4 on Amazon and be done with it  :-+
Hopefully I don't get a dud!

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