Most menu functions can be directly accessed by pressing the front panel hard keys. Other than test connectors, I/O connectors, and the main power switch, there are no user controls on the back panel.
The VectorStar MS464xB Series VNA is equipped with an internal drive for storing and recalling front panel and calibration setups, along with measurement information and data. The instrument can be controlled via:
• the front panel buttons and touch screen
• an attached USB keyboard and mouse
• an Ethernet LAN
• a USB LAN
• an IEEE 488.2 General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)
Note
When operating the VectorStar VNA through remote programming, the front panel user interface and controls are disabled. To return to local front panel control, press the front panel Clear/Tab key [Clr -->|], keyboard Esc key, or send the RTL command. For more information about remote programming, refer to the VectorStar MS464xB Series VNA Programming Manual.
The VectorStar MS464xB Series VNA does not support Microsoft’s Remote Desktop interface.
Graphical User Interface
The graphical user interface (GUI) provides a combination of a menu command bar, icon task bar, and right-side navigation menu for most system functions. All of the on-screen navigation elements can be accessed by the instrument touch screen or an attached USB mouse and keyboard.
Note
When using the touch screen, a recommended best practice is to use a positive hard press to make sure the required setting is input into the system. A light touch may not change the instrument setting as required.
To recalibrate the touch screen, navigate to the CALIBRATE TOUCH SCREEN dialog box located at MAIN | System | SYSTEM | Utility | UTILITY | Calibrate Touch Screen | TOUCH SCREEN CONTROL PANEL dialog box. The procedure is described in the User Interface Reference Manual.
A more detailed touch screen calibration and adjustment procedure is described in the VectorStar MS464xB Series VNA Maintenance Manual.
Front Panel Hard Keys
Most menu functions can be directly accessed by pressing the front panel hard keys. Other than test connectors, I/O connectors, and the main power switch, there are no user controls on the back panel.
System Identification and Computer Name
All Anritsu instruments are assigned a unique six-digit identification (ID) number such as “080101.” This number is affixed to a decal on the back panel of each unit. Please use this number in any correspondence with Anritsu Customer Service. The computer name is set to SNXXXXXX where XXXXXX is the Anritsu serial number for the instrument.
Precision Component and Calibration Kits
Two types of precision-component kits are available: calibration and verification. Calibration kits contain components used to identify and separate error sources inherent in microwave test setups. Verification kits consist of components with characteristics traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and are used as the most dependable means of checking system accuracy. Each of these kits contains a floppy disk and/or a USB memory device that provides coefficient, characterization, or measurement data for each component. Refer to the relevant data sheet below for detailed specifications on automatic calibrators, mechanical calibration kits, and verification kits:
• VectorStar MS464xB Series VNA Technical Data Sheet and Configuration Guide
Automatic Calibrators
AutoCal modules provide fast and repeatable calibrations with a single connection to the test ports, eliminating susceptibility to user errors and connector wear. The VectorStar MS464xB Series VNA controls the AutoCal module directly for 1- or 2-Port calibrations and Thru Updates. Each AutoCal module is shipped with a characterization file and the necessary serial connection cable.
Mechanical Calibration Kits
The mechanical calibration kits provide 50 ohm calibrations for SMA, 3.5 mm, K, V, 1 mm, and 0.8 mm devices.
Verification Kits
Verification kits can be used with the provided software and data to verify the calibration and resulting performance of the VectorStar MS464xB Series VNA. The applicable calibrations are Short-Open-Load-Thru (SOLT) with Sliding Load using the mechanical and AutoCal kits.
Note
Changing the installed location of the front panel Direct Access Loops (13), (15), (16), and (18) (shown in Figure: MS464xB Series VNA Front Panel Hard Keys and Connectors (1 of 2)) results in changes to the display of the factory RF calibration due to the differing electrical lengths of the loops. Changing locations of these loops have no effect on user RF calibrations.