The Vector Network Analyzer - an essential tool in modern ate measurements

The Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) is a modern piece of test gear that was once relegated to specialized measurements in the RF lab. The instrument was large, expensive, and primarily used by the designers of the lower level RF modules. It really didn't offer a reasonable performance advantage that would justify the increased cost to have it added to the standard ATE system. Older VNAs were often delicate and larger than the balance of the RF test gear.