Design and Implementation of a Portable Network Analyzer for In-line Sensor Measurements

Any sensor utilization is largely dependent upon its electronics integration and portability. This work represents systematic work done on integration of a resonance-based sensor to appropriate electronic interface unit (EIU) and design-cumdevelopment of appropriate vector network analyzer (VNA) to demonstrate a complete portable resonance sensor. Complementary Split Ring Resonator (CSRR) at 130 MHz is initially simulated and later fabricated on FR4 substrate copper clad. The development of the EIU addresses the limitations of traditional VNAs, offering a portable, adaptable, and budgetfriendly alternative. The experimental framework encompasses the ATmega328P microcontroller-based EIU and CSRR sensor. The EIU is optimized to identify the material based on resonance shifts obtained for various materials (Air, DI Water, Dimethylformamide (DMF), and Ethanol) and their concentrations. An efficient, reliable, and accessible approach is demonstrated for various technological applications for in-line testing and evaluation of hazardous ambiance.