New VNA accessories accelerate design and validation of 1.6/3.2 Tb/s components and next-generation semiconductors

Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) introduces two new millimeter-wave frequency extender modules, the NA5305A Frequency Extender up to 170 GHz and NA5307A Frequency Extender up to 250 GHz, and the 85065A Precision Calibration Kit 0.5 mm. When used with Keysight’s PNA/PNA-X Vector Network Analyzers (VNA) and the N5292A Test Set Controller, the new accessories enable engineers to achieve fully calibrated single-sweep broadband S-parameter measurements from 100kHz (or 10 MHz) to 170/250 GHz. Existing customers using the 110 GHz /120 GHz VNA can easily upgrade their configuration, providing added value to their original investment.

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NA5307A Frequency Extender up to 250 GHz.

The 85065A Precision Calibration Kit 0.5 mm enables precise measurements up to 250 GHz when used with the broadband VNA solution. The broadband VNA accessories simplify test setups and allow engineers to characterize various sub-THz on-wafer or packaged components such as optical RF drivers, TIAs, PCBs, cables, packages, and passive devices. The new accessories help engineers characterize these components and reduce lengthy design and verification cycles.

As AI pushes the limits of data communications with 1.6 Tb/s and 3.2 Tb/s networks and wireless research continues in sub-THz frequencies, test and measurement solutions must evolve to keep pace. Engineers developing next-generation semiconductors and high-speed interconnects, millimeter-wave and sub-THz wireless devices, and advanced semiconductors require instruments that deliver accurate broadband VNA measurements at ever-higher frequencies to validate designs and correlate simulations with real-world performance.

Among the benefits of the new broadband VNA accessories:

• Achieve the system dynamic range of 105 dB at 170 GHz to accommodate various measurements, lossy passive component test, high rejection filters, and active devices test under various power levels.
• Provide differential measurement capability to help engineers validate differential active devices and the signal integrity of high-speed interconnects.
• Enable greater insight into the characteristics of active components like amplifiers with the maximum output power of 0 dBm at 170 GHz and – 5 dBm at 220 GHz.

Measuring sub-THz signals in on-wafer and packaged components demands specialized probes, adapters, and test cables that complement Keysight’s new frequency extenders and calibration kit to form a comprehensive test setup.

To deliver complete measurement capabilities, Keysight has collaborated with top-tier industry solution partners; FormFactor Inc. and MPI Corp. have engineered advanced single-ended and differential RF probes. In addition, Spinner GmbH, a leading supplier of coaxial adapters, has developed ruggedized 0.5- to 0.8-mm coaxial adapters that support frequencies up to 167 GHz, along with 0.5-mm PC board-mount connectors. Junkosha Inc. has introduced high-performance 0.5-mm test cables.

Jens Klattenhoff, SVP and General Manager Systems Business Unit, FormFactor Inc. said: “We are proud to partner with Keysight to extend Infinity Probe Technology, WinCal, and MicroChamber^® Technology and deliver a fully integrated on-wafer coaxial solution up to 250 GHz. Our new InfinityXF™ 250 GHz probe series, featuring advanced thin-film contact technology, empowers engineers to achieve fast, precise, and repeatable measurements from DC to sub-THz frequencies, driving significant time savings and simplified setup for accurate data across a wide range of next-generation semiconductor device RF applications.”

Dr. Stojan Kanev, General Manager, Advanced Semiconductor Test Division, MPI Corporation said: “This latest collaboration with Keysight marks a significant step forward, delivering a fully integrated 250 GHz solution that combines Keysight’s high-performance PNA-X platform with our advanced TITAN™ probe technology. Together with Keysight’s broadband extenders, this solution enables rapid deployment, seamless reconfiguration, and robust protection of sensitive system components, ensuring engineers achieve peak performance while safeguarding their investment.”

Joe Rickert, Vice President and General Manager, Keysight High-Frequency Measurements Center of Excellence said: “With the introduction of our 170 and 250 GHz broadband VNA extenders, we are delivering the performance engineers need to validate next-generation semiconductors and high-speed network components. By combining industry-leading dynamic range and output power with a complete 0.5 mm coaxial ecosystem, we enable a simplified, high-confidence path for their high-frequency measurements.”

Resources

• Technical Overview, 170/250 GHz Millimeter-Wave Broadband Vector Network Analyzer Solutions Using NA5305A/7A Frequency Extenders
• NA5305A Frequency Extender up to 170 GHz
• NA5307A Frequency Extender up to 250 GHz

About Keysight Technologies

At Keysight (NYSE: KEYS), we inspire and empower innovators to bring world-changing technologies to life. As an S&P 500 company, we’re delivering market-leading design, emulation, and test solutions to help engineers develop and deploy faster, with less risk, throughout the entire product life cycle. We’re a global innovation partner enabling customers in communications, industrial automation, aerospace and defense, automotive, semiconductor, and general electronics markets to accelerate innovation to connect and secure the world. Learn more at Keysight Newsroom and www.keysight.com.

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