Learn about the tools in ventureLAB’s Hardware Catalyst Lab, how they work, and the impact they have on hardware innovation and product development.
At ventureLAB’s Hardware Catalyst Lab, precision is everything. That’s why tools like the Keysight E5080B Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) are critical to accelerating the development of cutting-edge hardware products. With measurement capabilities extending up to 53 GHz, this tool empowers innovators to bring their devices to market faster, with increased confidence in performance and reliability.
What is the Keysight E5080B Vector Network Analyzer?
The Keysight E5080B is an advanced vector network analyzer designed to support research and development teams working on high-performance electronic systems. Engineered for flexibility and accuracy, this instrument provides a dynamic range and trace noise level that enable precise, repeatable measurements in complex testing environments.
Its capabilities go beyond standard device testing. With optional built-in DC sources, bias tees, pulse generators, and pulse modulators, the VNA allows users get detailed information about their devices all in one machine. Users can select between 2-port or 4-port configurations, depending on how complex their tests need to be.
Key Features
- Measures frequencies from 100 kHz up to 53 GHz
- 2-port or 4-port selection for flexible test configurations
- Optional built-in DC sources, bias tees, pulse generators, and modulators
- Low trace noise and high dynamic range for accurate measurements
- Time domain analysis for fault localization and time gating
- Built-in support for power, impedance, and S-parameter measurements
- Fast measurement speeds ideal for production-level testing
- Multiport measurement support with optional expansion modules
Who’s Using It?
Tenstorrent is a next-generation computing company building AI-focused computers, with global offices in Toronto, Belgrade, Seoul, Tokyo, and Bangalore. The company unites experts in computer architecture, ASIC design, RISC-V, and neural network compilers, and is backed by Eclipse Ventures, Samsung Catalyst Fund, Hyundai Motor Group, and others.
At the Hardware Catalyst Lab, Tenstorrent uses the Keysight E5080B Vector Network Analyzer to assess the signal behavior of their printed circuit board (PCB) layouts. The tool helps them validate signal integrity and performance across key components, contributing to the delivery of high-performance computing systems for AI.
AKS Innovation Solutions Inc. specializes in advanced electronic design and testing. The company uses the Keysight E5080B Vector Network Analyzer to optimize the performance of high-power electronic systems, including a 50-watt high-power amplifier for a client in Silicon Valley. By using special features like port extension calibration and overlaying test results, AKS was able to improve the amplifier’s maximum output power (P1dB), keep its signal clean (linearity), and achieve over 65% efficiency. These tools helped them remove unwanted signal effects from testing connections and compare results across several rounds of improvement — all leading to better device performance.
Whether it’s accelerating product validation or enabling precise characterization of complex systems, the Keysight E5080B Vector Network Analyzer continues to drive innovation within ventureLAB’s Hardware Catalyst Lab.
