This is not a full review or a tutorial but a "learning curve" video showing you just some of the functions you can get into with a VNA. User guide in link / description if you want to find out more. We literally scratched the surface. All these things go a LOT deeper than we did.
They really are the multitool of rf devices. I use mine to not only check swr but also test coax for issues and test different baluns and ununs I have made.
Yep, I bought one about a year ago. I build scratch built receivers & use it to measure inductance & capacitance for parts of the band pass section & I am quite happy with its results. It also does a bang up job on checking antennas for reflected power. As usual I have to refresh my memory every time I use it but for $50 you can't beat it & I do plan on picking up the newer version soon.
I used mine to tune my recent DX Commander purchase and measure the loss of the coax cables I made. After calibration and values stored its pretty fast to use and testing side by side with an mfj 259c I borrowed from my club results were pretty much the same.
For the money these are incredible. I have this one too and its very useful for a quick check, especially when you have calibrated for a particular band and saved it. Good TDR function and also for checking random found antennas!
Wow that's amazing seeing you with this VNA tool, but it does exactly what it says on the tin Callum. Ideal for field I do think that there a bit over priced , but they work just could be a little bigger, thanks very much for the show us , And I'll see you next year because I've already got a lift lol. Cheers ALAN 💯👍
I use my VNA all the time, but honestly not that often for antenna work. Filters are where it shines compared to a simple SWR meter. Have a club project in the works where we're going to try some transmission line stubs as an alternative to expensive (and currently, unobtanium) bandpass filters for multi-radio operations. I did use it for antenna work when I built my circularly polarized satellite Yagi pairs. Working on the 70cm band is already mostly voodoo. I can't fathom how the microwave guys stay sane.
Glaid you got one to play with. I have the Nano VNA-H4 . I use with my UNUN and BalUn builds . Mike is great with them . He does has video's on his youtube channel and Jim W6LG does as well. 73
I love my nano! I use it to sweep the SWR of my antenna system, and it is quick and easy. I have an MFJ unit as well, but it isn't as easy as the nano, however, it is convenient at the base of the antenna. But, you need to calibrate the nano with the test leads, not just at the ports. In order to do that, you have to have the connectors the test leads use, in order to calibrate it. If you don't, it could have errors that lead you down the wrong path. But it is much more powerful than an SWR bridge alone! Keep using it, and especially the Smith chart, in order to learn its secrets!
I use one all the time... works great for detailed results on an antenna. My rig expect has same of the functionality just not as much. Nicely done Callum.
A couple of things that might help, first is there's some great (free) software called "vna saver" that lets you connect your vna to your PC via USB. You can then do everything from a PC, which is much easier, you can save calibration files, and most important take screen shots of traces (including SWR), so you can easily compare in the future. Second, a nano VNA only uses 100 or 200 frequency points through your sweep, so really you should set the sweep to just one band, run "open", "short" and "load" calibrations for that band, optionally save the cal files if using a PC, and then run your test. When you change bands you MUST recalibrate... Mike's smith chart explanation was a bit "morning after a skin full" to be honest 🥴.
A long while back, I purchased a NanoVNA at the recommendation of a club member. And since at the time the price was right and I needed an antenna analyzer I got it. But while the NanoVNA has a host of features, for me I found the whole process that you have to go thorugh was, for me at least, was very cumbersome. In otherwards, just to make a simple SWR measurement was hard to do to say the least. In short, I sent it back and found an MFJ-269C on line that made the process much simpler, not to mention being able to see the meter in the sunlight.
I have the same unit Cal, bought it when it was first released from Martin Lynch, A little more expensive than most of the Vna's but certainly does what it says on the tin. Found a break in a 25mtr length of ultra flex 7 that had me pulling my hair out until i realised this unit could find it, and find it it did. its saved me quite a sum of money and while i would like to invest in a rig expert, this will always be in my tool kit. I have a file for a 3d printer that makes a cover, stand and support for this model Cal, happy to send it to you if you want to give it a go. Enjoy Cal. Mat 2W0ONY
Ive had one for a couple of years now. I only ever use the SWR feature. I also connect it to me computer which give lots of options for plotting results. If memory serves me, I think I sent you a series of plots for my antennas.
I've also used it to test inductors that I have wound to confirm their value. I wound one and have it on my vertical from the radiator to ground to put it at DC ground potential. It did actually quiet it down a bit too. Especially when there is any static build up from precipitation.
Well, if I could understand well, there is some recoverable misinformation here. First of all, the upper part of the Smith chart is not "resistive". This part is the "inductive reactance" part, which tells that the DUT at the point of the calibration looks a bit more like an inductive load than a pure resistive load. It's a great place to understand the "point of calibration" in the previous sentence. There are two "unbreakable" rules of VNA testing. One is clearly introduced by @yt5bos: always re-calibrate when you change the "stimulus": the frequency range you're using. The second part is a bit more complicated and comes from the fact that "all measurements affect the result of the measurement". That is exactly why we use oscilloscope probes with known main parameters (frequency range, capacitance and impedance), and why should we check the compensation of the probes before measurements. The same applies to a VNA. The calibration process is well introduced in this video (though, "through" is not a must if you make basic measurements on a feedline or an antenna). The other part is even more important: the DUT (device under test) and the test device (VNA) are separated from each other at the point, where the calibration has been done. If it's right at the port of the VNA, then the DUT will be your antenna AND the feedline AND the switch AND the short feedline to your rig (at this point, the VNA) AND the SO239-to-SMA adapter. So, if you're curious about the real performance of your antenna (from the viewpoint of SWR or VSWR), you MUST make the calibration process at the feed point of your antenna (yep, disconnect the antenna, and play the open --> short --> terminate procedure, then, re-connect the antenna). I have saved all working bands separated, and the full spectrum from 1.8 to 29.7 MHz stored in my VNA, so I can check the trustability of the whole system within a few seconds (full spectrum, low resolution), and the bands (one band, high resolution), to find out if some of them are changed from ideal to a less ideal. Or a full crap. It took about 40 minutes to finish, but it was worth it. And just a tip. NanoVNA app is extremely useful for anyone with a weak eye. Easy print-screen, lots of information listed, many "markers", and though it needs a new calibration, the resolution may be refined up to over 25 thousand measurement points (for a price of a much longer sweep time). As a final thought, we're lucky. Extremely lucky. Back in the day (pre-2010), it may take a full day to properly measure, calculate and draw a smith chart of a multi-band antenna. Now we have it (after a couple of minutes of one-time preparations) instantly in the palm of our hands. Awesome.
Great functional explanation. I have one similar and am still learning how to use it - There is a PC program (for mine) that gives a much nicer display through the USB port - Cheers!
This is not a full review or a tutorial but a "learning curve" video showing you just some of the functions you can get into with a VNA. User guide in link / description if you want to find out more. We literally scratched the surface. All these things go a LOT deeper than we did.
The most important thing to do with the NanoVNA is to recalibrate every time you change the measurement range.
They really are the multitool of rf devices. I use mine to not only check swr but also test coax for issues and test different baluns and ununs I have made.
Yes, I need to learn that bit!
I’ll be honest. That explanation of the smith chart was easier to follow than anything I’ve seen on TH-cam 😂. Great fun. They’re wonderful tools.
My nano VNA is one of the most useful tools I have in my shack. Great for testing baluns and ununs!
Yep,
I bought one about a year ago.
I build scratch built receivers & use it to measure inductance & capacitance for parts of the band pass section & I am quite happy with its results. It also does a bang up job on checking antennas for reflected power.
As usual I have to refresh my memory every time I use it but for $50 you can't beat it & I do plan on picking up the newer version soon.
Thanky Callum and Thank you to Mike for this short very helpfull information !!! About this Smith diagramm !!! Thank you Mike !!!
I used mine to tune my recent DX Commander purchase and measure the loss of the coax cables I made. After calibration and values stored its pretty fast to use and testing side by side with an mfj 259c I borrowed from my club results were pretty much the same.
For the money these are incredible. I have this one too and its very useful for a quick check, especially when you have calibrated for a particular band and saved it. Good TDR function and also for checking random found antennas!
Yes, I need to work out the TDR part..! Lots to learn - only one life!
@@DXCommanderHQ That's why the community is here! As long as we remain helpful to each other, there are always subject matter experts we can ask.
I have a tiny one I carry EVERYWHERE.honestly be lost without it, and now I know how to use a smith.
Wow that's amazing seeing you with this VNA tool, but it does exactly what it says on the tin Callum. Ideal for field I do think that there a bit over priced , but they work just could be a little bigger, thanks very much for the show us , And I'll see you next year because I've already got a lift lol. Cheers ALAN 💯👍
I use my VNA all the time, but honestly not that often for antenna work. Filters are where it shines compared to a simple SWR meter. Have a club project in the works where we're going to try some transmission line stubs as an alternative to expensive (and currently, unobtanium) bandpass filters for multi-radio operations. I did use it for antenna work when I built my circularly polarized satellite Yagi pairs. Working on the 70cm band is already mostly voodoo. I can't fathom how the microwave guys stay sane.
thanks I've learnt something, i have one that i can easily switch to my doublet, and with the aid of the PC app, it makes tuning it a lot easier
Glaid you got one to play with. I have the Nano VNA-H4 . I use with my UNUN and BalUn builds . Mike is great with them . He does has video's on his youtube channel and Jim W6LG does as well. 73
Love my Nano VNA… I use Nano VNA saver on the computer with it to give me a bigger picture
Pretty cool and not a bad price. I think I'll add one to my armoury
I love my nano! I use it to sweep the SWR of my antenna system, and it is quick and easy.
I have an MFJ unit as well, but it isn't as easy as the nano, however, it is convenient at the base of the antenna.
But, you need to calibrate the nano with the test leads, not just at the ports. In order to do that, you have to have the connectors the test leads use, in order to calibrate it. If you don't, it could have errors that lead you down the wrong path.
But it is much more powerful than an SWR bridge alone!
Keep using it, and especially the Smith chart, in order to learn its secrets!
Nice tip!
I use one all the time... works great for detailed results on an antenna. My rig expect has same of the functionality just not as much. Nicely done Callum.
Tnx John! I need to sit with it more.. I want to use it for coax runs.. Lengths, phasing, losses etc.
A couple of things that might help, first is there's some great (free) software called "vna saver" that lets you connect your vna to your PC via USB. You can then do everything from a PC, which is much easier, you can save calibration files, and most important take screen shots of traces (including SWR), so you can easily compare in the future. Second, a nano VNA only uses 100 or 200 frequency points through your sweep, so really you should set the sweep to just one band, run "open", "short" and "load" calibrations for that band, optionally save the cal files if using a PC, and then run your test. When you change bands you MUST recalibrate... Mike's smith chart explanation was a bit "morning after a skin full" to be honest 🥴.
I need a bigger screen with my eyesight! Thanks for the video!
A long while back, I purchased a NanoVNA at the recommendation of a club member. And since at the time the price was right and I needed an antenna analyzer I got it. But while the NanoVNA has a host of features, for me I found the whole process that you have to go thorugh was, for me at least, was very cumbersome. In otherwards, just to make a simple SWR measurement was hard to do to say the least. In short, I sent it back and found an MFJ-269C on line that made the process much simpler, not to mention being able to see the meter in the sunlight.
I think I am in the same boat as you!
very nice
Mike is clearly channeling Barry White with his voice depth! 😂
I have the same unit Cal, bought it when it was first released from Martin Lynch, A little more expensive than most of the Vna's but certainly does what it says on the tin. Found a break in a 25mtr length of ultra flex 7 that had me pulling my hair out until i realised this unit could find it, and find it it did. its saved me quite a sum of money and while i would like to invest in a rig expert, this will always be in my tool kit. I have a file for a 3d printer that makes a cover, stand and support for this model Cal, happy to send it to you if you want to give it a go. Enjoy Cal. Mat 2W0ONY
Wow
Take it up a notch and put a tuner in before the VNA and you can see how the VNA can assist you in matching the load!!! fun video! Thanks de ki7cia
Good idea!
thank you
Ive had one for a couple of years now. I only ever use the SWR feature. I also connect it to me computer which give lots of options for plotting results. If memory serves me, I think I sent you a series of plots for my antennas.
I've also used it to test inductors that I have wound to confirm their value.
I wound one and have it on my vertical from the radiator to ground to put it at DC ground potential. It did actually quiet it down a bit too. Especially when there is any static build up from precipitation.
Well, if I could understand well, there is some recoverable misinformation here.
First of all, the upper part of the Smith chart is not "resistive". This part is the "inductive reactance" part, which tells that the DUT at the point of the calibration looks a bit more like an inductive load than a pure resistive load.
It's a great place to understand the "point of calibration" in the previous sentence. There are two "unbreakable" rules of VNA testing. One is clearly introduced by @yt5bos: always re-calibrate when you change the "stimulus": the frequency range you're using. The second part is a bit more complicated and comes from the fact that "all measurements affect the result of the measurement". That is exactly why we use oscilloscope probes with known main parameters (frequency range, capacitance and impedance), and why should we check the compensation of the probes before measurements. The same applies to a VNA. The calibration process is well introduced in this video (though, "through" is not a must if you make basic measurements on a feedline or an antenna). The other part is even more important: the DUT (device under test) and the test device (VNA) are separated from each other at the point, where the calibration has been done. If it's right at the port of the VNA, then the DUT will be your antenna AND the feedline AND the switch AND the short feedline to your rig (at this point, the VNA) AND the SO239-to-SMA adapter. So, if you're curious about the real performance of your antenna (from the viewpoint of SWR or VSWR), you MUST make the calibration process at the feed point of your antenna (yep, disconnect the antenna, and play the open --> short --> terminate procedure, then, re-connect the antenna). I have saved all working bands separated, and the full spectrum from 1.8 to 29.7 MHz stored in my VNA, so I can check the trustability of the whole system within a few seconds (full spectrum, low resolution), and the bands (one band, high resolution), to find out if some of them are changed from ideal to a less ideal. Or a full crap. It took about 40 minutes to finish, but it was worth it.
And just a tip. NanoVNA app is extremely useful for anyone with a weak eye. Easy print-screen, lots of information listed, many "markers", and though it needs a new calibration, the resolution may be refined up to over 25 thousand measurement points (for a price of a much longer sweep time).
As a final thought, we're lucky. Extremely lucky. Back in the day (pre-2010), it may take a full day to properly measure, calculate and draw a smith chart of a multi-band antenna. Now we have it (after a couple of minutes of one-time preparations) instantly in the palm of our hands. Awesome.
Thanks
Great functional explanation. I have one similar and am still learning how to use it - There is a PC program (for mine) that gives a much nicer display through the USB port - Cheers!
Yes, you can.
please more on the smith chart!!!!!!!!!!
Next time.
@@DXCommanderHQ dont forget ;-)
I take it that this was done before all of you were 3 sheets to the wind.
Morning after!
I enjoyed using my own....... until I blew it!!! 😂
Woops
@@DXCommanderHQ I put the wrong charging lead into it.... too much power!! sometimes QRP is better 🤣🤣
Great idea and I learned alot. I am a newbie on the nanovna. Thanks VE6KBI Dana
Glad it was helpful! It was an eye-opener to me!