Virtual Vector Network Analyzers

A Transformational Approach

Copper Mountain Technologies is changing the way Vector Network Analyzers are incorporated in lab and production environments. The company’s unique virtual VNAs deliver highly accurate measurements at half the cost of traditional VNAs. Leveraging breakthrough advances in RF technology, CMT’s Planar VNAs provide high measurement accuracy, a wide dynamic range, a familiar UI and a broad variety of standard features. By developing VNAs that utilize external PCs, CMT offers users flexibility, portability, improved security and upgradeability.
Copper Mountain Technologies is based in Indianapolis, IN. CMT’s Planar virtual vector network analyzers are used for a variety of RF and Microwave lab and production applications from 300 kHz to 8 GHz in the US and around the world including Canada, Germany, Italy, UK, Spain, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Singapore, India and Russia.

Why Virtual?

Virtual VNAs separate the measurement module from the processing module, bringing the measurement results to any external PC via software UI. The user can take advantage of the processing power, bigger display, and more reliable performance of an external PC, while simplifying maintenance of the analyzer. Virtual VNAs, can be easily adapted to multiple users, and fit equally well into lab, production, field, and secure testing environments.

The parameters of a Virtual VNA test setup and test results are always stored on an external computer, so there is no need for hard drive purging or removal in order to move the Virtual VNA from a secure area. The analyzer can be easily and independently shared between multiple users and different locations. The box can be disconnected from one test setup and moved to another workstation or facility.

An individual measurement module can be replaced on a temporary basis without interrupting work flow, when the module is sent out to a laboratory for annual verification/calibration. If post-processing of test results using additional software is required, it can be easily integrated with the Virtual VNA software since both software packages can be run on the same PC for automated and immediate presentation to the user.

At less than half the price, dimensions, and weight of competitive products accompanied by equal or better performance, CMT VNAs sell themselves once engineers get a chance to use them.

A much lower price point, smaller footprint, light weight, and operation from any external PC make CMT VNAs very attractive and accessible to both development labs and production environments. This mass introduction of VNAs to production and Quality Control, enables RF and microwave equipment manufacturers to significantly improve their manufacturing processes, moving the industry as a whole forward.

Origin of the Mountain

The company is named after the Copper Mountain located in the South Ural Mountain Ridge. Chelyabinsk, home to our manufacturing facility, is located in this region. Our company's name is a tribute to the rich history of the region, and brings together old world craftsmanship with modern technological advancements [created by the highly talented engineers and researchers, many of whom are graduates of the South Ural University, a well-known engineering school.

The Mistress of the Copper Mountain is a well-known Russian sorceress from the tales of writer Pavel Bazhov. Drawing on the mining folklore of the South Ural Mountain region, Bazhov wrote several stories (The Mistress of the Copper Mountain, The Malachite Casket, and The Stone Flower) about the mineral-rich mountains and their mysterious spirit. The mythical woman, who could change into a lizard, was a guiding force for hard-working miners of the mountain, protecting them in exchange for their complete loyalty and respect for the land. The traditional values of loyalty and respect for our customers are the foundational elements of Copper Mountain Technologies' corporate culture.