Vector Network analyzer S Parameter test set

Hello,

Is the S parameter test set absolutely necessary to measure all the S parameters of the DUT or can I perform all the measurements with just the VNA by itself and simply plugging and unplugging the cables where appropriate.

FYI I have an Advantest R3762 VNA with an R3961 S parameter test set. I imagine other VNAs are similar.

FYI I suspect the R3961 I have is faulty.

Thank you

Yes; you can just reverse the DUT and operate the VNA manually. I don't have a test set so that's what I do.

A test set has the advantage of avoiding the painful process of connecting & disconnecting cables; it also avoids errors arising from possible differences in connector resistance after connecting & disconnecting but this is usually not a problem.

As far as I understand, the R3762 instrument doesn't include any directional couplers. In this case, it's not able to perform S parameter measurements on it's own.