Multiport Vector Network Analyzer Configured in RF Interferometric Mode for Reference Impedance Renormalization

A novel active microwave interferometric technique is implemented on a multiport vector network analyzer for renormalizing the reference impedance 50 Ohms into any desired complex impedance. The resulting measured reflection coefficient around the new reference impedance is around zero, resulting in high measurement sensitivity. The method proposed avoids any external component commonly found in interferometric set-ups. In addition, a zeroing process including vector calibration is developed for broad frequency range and requires only a software procedure to be implemented in the system framework.