A Computer Controlled 108-220 GHz Scalar Network Analyzer Suited for Quasioptical Measurements

A broadband scalar mm-wave network analyzer system is presented which makes use of a new operation principle. With this new concept the complexity and cost of the system is reduced considerably compared to prevailing systems which are combined of several expensive narrow band mm-wave sources. In contrast to Goy [1] who recently presented a similar system, it is realized using mainly standard microwave laboratory equipment. The network analyzer system is controlled by an IBM AT Personal Computer which, for any frequency, selects optimum measurement parameters to achieve the maximum dynamic range. This has been observed to be about 60 dB at 110 GHz and still about 50 dB at 200 GHz. Measurements of waveguide and quasioptical components, and broadband corrugated horn antennas have been performed with a repeatability of 0.2 dB.