From Benchtops to Pockets: The Age of Ever-Shriiiking Test Gear: Working with computers and software, USB-powered RF test instruments are bringing measurements with less size and cost than traditional equipment--yet still pack a punch.

The article offers information on several aspects associated with an universal serial bus (USB) powered radio frequency (RF) test instruments which are bringing measurements with less size and cost than traditional equipment. The topics addressed include details on USB vector network analysers (VNAs), such as the TTR500 series from Tektronix Inc. which provide cost-effective, simple-to-perform two-port vector network measurements with a USB connection and control of a laptop computer.