Implementation of SDR as a Vector Network Analyzer: Methodology, Configuration, and Software Insights

Abstract Software-Defined Radios (SDR) offer unparalleled reconfigurability across a wide frequency spectrum, making them versatile tools in the RF domain, especially when capable of simultaneous data transmission and reception. This adaptability positions SDRs as cost-effective universal RF measurement devices. Leveraging these advantages, this article explores the utilization of an SDR as a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA), emphasizing an offset tuning measurement approach to mitigate negative effects inherent in SDR architectures. The research places particular attention on the software and measurement aspects of SDR-based VNA, distinguishing itself from existing recent research that predominantly concentrates on hardware setup and calibration. The study refines and generalizes existing approaches while presenting a universal methodology for VNA realization, for any SDR architecture with at least 1 full duplex transmit and receive port. By addressing the often-overlooked software aspects and proposing a novel measurement approach, this research provides a foundation for implementation, with the potential to significantly contribute to the evolution of SDR-based RF measurement methodologies.