[TowerTalk] MFJ226 / SARK110

[Richard (Rick) Karlquist]

On 7/8/2015 6:39 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
> On Wed,7/8/2015 6:22 AM, Roger Parsons via TowerTalk wrote:
>> I have a SARK110. It is beautiful!
>
> Here's what I've been using for about 3 years.
>
>   http://sdr-kits.net/VNWA3_Description.html
>
> Note that it's a full Vector NETWORK Analyzer, and that it goes to 1.3
> GHz! I have the 3E, which has a two-channel USB sound card. All the
>
> 73, Jim K9YC.

I am not sure what Jim means by a "full" VNA.  There are a growing
number of low cost analyzers that have the same architecture as
this one, which combines a 1 port network analyzer with a 2nd  receiver
port.  These devices can sort of measure S11 and S21, but do not
offer full two port calibration with 12 term error correction like
"real" network analyzers do.  Depending on what you are doing, these
limited analyzers might make acceptable measurements.  Or they may
have unexplained response ripples.

Specific to VNWA3, the output level is only -17 dBm.  This weak drive
level is unlikely to do well when measuring 160 meter antennas in
the presence of BCB QRM.  Again, this may or may not be an issue
depending on your circumstances.

It goes to 1.3 GHz, but with reduced accuracy at high frequencies.

I don't like the axis scaling and labeling in the GUI.

The competition in this space seems weak compared to this model,
so it may be best in class, but realize its limitations.

Rick N6RK