When using a stand-alone VNA, will the long RF cables limit system performance? Will additional amplifiers be necessary to improve SN?
Distributed RF sub-systems are often used to minimize the impact of cable loss within a given measurement system but may be more expensive than a single-box solution. Considerations for a fundamental mixing RF sub-system include examination of the system power budget to insure adequate system dynamic range. A broadband RF amplifier for budgetary purposes would be a wise precaution (see NSI RF Accessories, Amplifiers). There are many factors which can affect the dynamic range including free space loss due to range length, cable attenuation due to cable length, dynamic range of the receiver, receiver IF bandwidth, gain of the range illuminator, and lowest sidelobe level of the AUT. These all have an effect on the RF subsystem power budget. As part of the RF sub-system design (once everything is known) the system power budget will determine whether additional amplification will be needed.
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