Anritsu MS4642A Microwave Vector Network Analyzer, 10 MHz to 20 GHz

The Anritsu MS4642A is a microwave vector network analyzer spanning 10 MHz to 20 GHz, engineered for precise characterization of communication and radar components. Part of the VectorStar family, this instrument integrates source, test set, and analyzer into a single platform, delivering high performance across RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave measurements. The Open Windows architecture provides intuitive control and measurement flexibility for component validation and device design optimization.

Technical Specifications

Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 20 GHz Measurement Speed: Swept synthesized measurements achieve <20 µs per point. Typical sweep time reaches 20 µs/point in true swept mode with 25,000 points, ALC enabled, display active, locking and correction applied. Dynamic Range: Up to 140 dB across the measurement band. Power Output: Maximum available power of +13 dBm. Test Port Performance: Directivity, source match, and load match specifications reach 50 dB. K(male) connectors standard. Data Resolution: Up to 100,001 points in single-channel mode for maximum measurement fidelity and time-domain analysis.

Key Features

• Precision AutoCal automatic calibration - one-button operation with accuracy exceeding traditional SOLT methods


• Internal bias tees with two or four-step attenuators for extended power range control


• Swept power and I-V curve measurements plus load-pull capability for linear and nonlinear amplifier design


• Time-domain analysis with up to 100,000 data points and optimized low-pass mode for near-DC extrapolation


• Alias-free range sufficient for long transmission-line measurements


• VectorStar Active Device Measurements Suite supports single and multi-frequency gain compression analysis


• 700 kHz frequency step size in Low Pass Mode for precise characterization

Typical Applications Testing and validation of communication and radar components; amplifier design and optimization; device characterization across extended frequency ranges; active and passive component measurement.

Compatibility & Integration Warm-up time of 90 minutes required before specification compliance. Measurements extend to 70 GHz when integrated with system configuration options.