Hi,
What is the best VNA for amateur work, and why?
I have recently made a generational leap from transmatches, grid dip
meters, Smith Charts, and wire cutting to an awareness of VNAs (Vector
Network Analyzer), e.g.,
+
http://www.members.shaw.ca/swstuff/vna.html
+
http://www.miniradiosolutions.com/
and many others.
I started looking at VNA gear - toys that combine TDRs, VSWR meters, Z
and Q meters all in one tiny box and connect to your laptop for a host
of other analyses plus Smith Charts !! And promise instant wisdom and
nirvana...
Not having seen, let alone used, one I wonder...
So this is a new frontier for me. What are your opinions (admittedly a
troll) on the "best" of class?
My research suggests:
+ Array Solutions AIM 4170 by W5BIG
+ the mRS miniVNA
The eham.net site is really very good. I copied its Analyzer page
http://www.eham.net/reviews/products/31
into a spreadsheet so that I can sort by cost, rating, number of
reviews, etc.
But analysis is only so good in the absence of actual experience ... :-)
So what do you think?
What is the best VNA for amateur work, and why?
Kind regards, 73, Andy
WA6VCT