M0WWA-VNA built project

My implementation of N2PK Vector Network Analyzer

Home

Projects

Tech Info

My implementation of N2PK Vector Network Analyzer project

60kHz to 60MHz laboratory quality Vector Network Analyzer.

Overview

I selected the N2PK VNA project for laboratory and antenna measurements because of its exceptional design, precision, and reliability. Comprehensive documentation on the N2PK VNA can be found at this site: https://groups.io/g/N2PK-VNA

Since its release several years ago, hundreds of N2PK VNAs have been built worldwide for both amateur and professional use, demonstrating its outstanding performance.

The N2PK VNA is not just a VNA; it is a "Lab in a Box" that performs various functions due to its dual DDS generators and dual detectors. It can function as an RF generator, sweep generator, power detector, vector voltmeter, IP3 measurement tool, antenna analyzer, and more.

Rudy Severns N6LF conducted comparative measurements of several VNAs using different loads, with the HP3577A VNA serving as a reference.

N2PK Vector network analyzer comparison.
by Rudy Severns N6LF

The Hardware. VNA core board.

I have constructed several N2PK VNAs, utilizing the dual detector PCB, version 4xx (parallel port) and version 5xx, ( USB ) designed by Ivan Makarov VE3IVM under the author's supervision.

Detailed information about the board is available at N2PK-VNA Group https://groups.io/g/N2PK-VNA

To maintain the published performance standards, all components used in the assembly adhere to the author's specifications.

Each assembled board undergoes a 24-hour burn-in test.

Specifications:

- Frequency range: 60kHz to 60MHz

- Dynamic range: 120dB

- Number of detectors: 2

- Detector ports input impedance: 50 Ohm

- Detector ports Return Loss: 30 dB

- Detector ports input power: +10dBm

- Detector ports ADC resolution: 24 bit

- RF DDS port max output power +4 dBm over 50 Ohm

- Detector Resolution Bandwidth: Selectable from 7Hz to 3.4kHz

- Master Oscillator: Connor- Winfield 156.250MHz or equivalent.

- Features: VNA, Dual RF signal, Sweep generator, Vector Voltmeter, Power Detector.

- PC interface: High speed USB v2.0

- Power Supply:Dedicated external 12V /500mA min.

- Aluminium enclosure: Hammond model 1455T1601

- Size: 163mmx160mmx51.5mm.(6.417x6.29x2.028in)

Main dual detector board
Main board current version 5xx.

Assembling the VNA page
(click on picture to link)

The Software application "My VNA" by Dave Roberts G8KBB

https://groups.io/g/N2PK-VNA


My VNA terms and conditions. End-user license agreement for myVNA. by Dave Roberts G8KBB.	MyVNA User Manual (v1.0.5) by Dave Roberts G8KBB.

"My VNA" Graphic User Interface snapshot
(click on picture to enlarge)

"My VNA" Software application features

myVNA offers the following:

 Reflection, Transmission or Dual detector scans
 S Parameter measurements with 5,6,10 or 12 term correction
 Automated Crystal Equivalent Circuit measurement
 Full transverter support
 Ability to load & store traces in multiple file formats
 Full set of display modes including Smith Charts and Polar displays
 Signal and sweep generator mode
 Integrated support for parallel and USB connection
 Runs under W98, ME, W2000, XP, Vista, Windows 7 & 8
 Basic, CDS, Harmonic Suppression and 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 harmonic modes
 Manual and automatic tracking markers with marker arithmetic
 Scans of up to 50,000 points per scan
 Averaging of trace sequences or averaging up to 10,000 readings per point
 Print & Windows clipboard copy support
 Switch and attenuator functions with manual or automated switching for S
parameter test set.
 Test mode for I/O lines in parallel or USB mode
 RF IV & Reference Modes
 Logarithmic or linear scans and displays
 Drag & drop file import
 Network Client / Server for remote operation
 Vector Voltmeter (VVM)
 On screen cursors may be displayed in rectangular displays
 Arbitrary equation editor allows user defined functions to be created
 Basic network simulation
 TDR mode
 An Automation (OLE) interface
 A “custom” hardware interface for control of other VNA hardware

Boxed standard BNC version



	Front view. BNC connectors with protective anti-dust caps Standard BNC type.	Measurement bridge plugged


	VNA open	VNA rear view

Some snapshots using "My VNA" program software.
(click on picture to enlarge)


9MHz CW Xtal roofing filter Transmission-Return loss	160m, 80m, 40m BPF Transmission mode	10.7 MHz crystal BPF response.
Working on Very Low Frequencies. 3kHz-9kHz band pass filter plot	Working on Very Low Frequencies. 3kHz band pass filter plot.	Working on Low Frequencies. 50kHz-100kHz band pass filter plot.
Diamond W-8010 80m/40m/20m/15m/10m Trap Dipole Antenna plot. VSWR-Return Loss (Reflection mode) (Snapshot on Windows Vista OS)	VSWR-Xs (Reflection mode) (Snapshot on Windows Vista OS)	BroadCast Band (BCB) Rejection Filter (Transmission mode)

Some versions

	N connectors	SMA connectors

	N connectors bidge	SMA connectors bridge

	Measurement bridge embeded for antenna measurements (board v4XX)	With USB adaptor/Power converter (board v4XX)