Thanks for the comments, Jim - and for the potential offer. Yes, they nano 2 docs specifically mention that it cannot be used for measuring crystal parameters. I had been looking at a LibreVNA - I like the upper freq limit and other specs and would like to have shown it to my co-workers (radar techs and engineers) but whoever moderates the io.group evidently didn't see the relevance of a question regarding the ordering process and documentation availability so the plan to purchase evaporated instantly.
I haven't ruled out an SDR-Kits VNA - but I do need to know what I'd be gaining for the extra $$$. That is the purpose of the upcoming comparison, all of which will be with passive devices.
I have an FA-VA5 from them and am well aware of the high quality of these products, typical of what we've come to expect from German engineering (which also applies to my .22 Beeman R9)!
Thanks again and 73,
--
John AE5X
The SDR-Kits software is more refined. Their calibration kits are of higher mechanical and electrical quality.
I use it for things like sorting crystals for ladder crystal filters and LF/HF tasks.
I find it more convenient than the HP 3577A (5 Hz - 200 MHz) in many cases.
The HP 8702B (a 3 GHz 8753C with the word optical in the description and a slightly different ROM set) compares favorably with the 0-3 GHz specifications of the LibreVNA. The HP wins in the software capabilities and interface.
I am currently using the LibreVNA from 2-6 GHz along with HP 8595E/8596E and a DS Systems tracking generator. The LibreVNA came with better quality cabling and calibration kit than the NanoVNA variants I have.
John, contact me if you are still looking for a SDR-Kits VNWA 3 to borrow.
Jimn8qoh
