---
title: "Instrument Basics: Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) with PicoVNA | Workbench Wednesdays #49"
description: "Vector network analyzers (VNAs) measure how a \"network\" of components changes the amplitude and phase of signals. By measuring across a wide frequency range, VNAs can create…"
canonical: "https://www.baldengineer.com/instrument-basics-vector-network-analyzer-vna-with-picovna-workbench-wednesdays-49.html"
author: "James Lewis"
date: "2022-01-19T00:15:00Z"
lastmod: "2022-04-01T23:17:52Z"
categories: ["blog","element14","workbench-wednesdays","videos"]
tags: ["measurements","pico-technologies","picovna","rf","s-parameters","vna"]
---

# Instrument Basics: Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) with PicoVNA | Workbench Wednesdays #49


Vector network analyzers (VNAs) measure how a "network" of components changes the amplitude and phase of signals. By measuring across a wide frequency range, VNAs can create S-Parameters that fully describe the behavior of a circuit. This video uses a PicoVNA 106 to show the basics of what a VNA measures, how they work, and a brief overview of how to use one.

I made a mistake on the explainer graphic for S-parameters. The annoying thing is that I think it was a really good explanation!