The NanoVNA-QT (Quick Time) software is the official cross-platform application for the NanoVNA V2 (S-A-A-2), allowing for high-resolution measurements and a larger visual interface on your PC. 1. Connection and Setup
Download: Obtain the latest binary from the official GitHub releases or the NanoRFE website.
Driver: On Windows, if the device isn't recognized, you may need to install the Cypress USB Serial driver included in the download. Linux and macOS typically recognize it automatically as a USB CDC device.
Link Device: Connect via USB and launch the .exe. Select your device under the Device menu. If it doesn't appear, click Rescan. 2. Configuring the Sweep
Frequency Range: Go to Device > Sweep parameters to set your Start and Stop frequencies. You can enter values in Hz or use suffixes like k or M (e.g., 2.4G).
Data Points: Unlike the handheld's 101-point limit, NanoVNA-QT can perform segmented sweeps up to 1024 points (or more depending on your PC) for much finer detail. 3. PC-Side Calibration (Critical)
The software does not use the calibration data stored on the handheld unit; you must calibrate within the application itself. NanoVNA V2 aka S-A-A-2 - EEVblog
NanoVNA-QT is the official, native PC software for the NanoVNA V2 (S-A-A-2/SAA-2N), designed by
to support up to 3GHz/4GHz measurements. Unlike the original NanoVNA V1, the S-A-A-2 requires specific software for advanced functionality and live viewing. nanorfe.com Downloading and Installation Official Releases: Download the software directly from the official NanoVNA-QT GitHub releases page Download the vna_qt_windows.zip file. Extract it and run vna_qt.exe . It does not require a formal installation. Drivers (Windows 10 & earlier): CypressDriverInstaller_1.exe
found in the software package to install the necessary USB-CDC driver. Linux/MacOS:
Download the respective AppImage or .dmg files and run them directly.
Do not use NanoVNA-Saver for firmware updates on the V2; only use NanoVNA-QT. Connecting to S-A-A-2 Connect your S-A-A-2 to the PC using a USB cable. vna_qt.exe
menu, select the appropriate COM port (if it doesn't auto-detect), and click
If the device is not recognized, ensure the Cypress driver is installed and the device is powered on. Core Features of NanoVNA-QT Live Measurement: Real-time data visualization on a larger screen. Sweep Points:
Supports up to 1024 points (compared to 201 on the device itself). S-Parameters: Measures and exports S11, S21, S12, S22. Calibration:
Provides specialized calibration routines (Open, Short, Load, Thru) to improve measurement accuracy at the PC level.
Time-domain reflectometry with high resolution to find faults in cables. Smith Chart & LogMag:
Native support for plotting Smith charts, SWR, and logarithmic magnitude. Important Tips for S-A-A-2
While nanoVNA-qt is our primary recommendation for the S-A-A-2, you have options:
nanoVNA-qt is a cross-platform desktop application written in C++ using the Qt framework. It is specifically designed to interface with a wide range of VNAs, including the original nanoVNA, nanoVNA-F V2, and—most importantly—the S-A-A-2. nanovna-qt pc software with the s-a-a-2
The S-A-A-2 is a remarkable piece of hardware that pushes into the C-band (4 GHz). However, using it exclusively via its front panel is like driving a Ferrari in a school zone. By pairing it with nanoVNA-qt PC software, you unleash dynamic range, data processing, and visualization that rivals benchtop units costing thousands of dollars.
From deep-dive Smith chart analysis to real-time TDR cable fault finding, the combination of nanoVNA-qt software with the S-A-A-2 turns your laptop into an RF laboratory.
Action Step: Download nanoVNA-qt today, set your baud rate to 6M, and watch your S-A-A-2’s sweep rate triple. Your antennas will thank you.
Have you tried using the S-A-A-2 with the latest nightly build of nanoVNA-qt? Share your sweep screenshots in the comments below.
Unlocking the Full Potential of the S-A-A-2 with NanoVNA-QT The S-A-A-2 (also known as NanoVNA V2) is a powerful tool for RF analysis, but its 2.8-inch screen can limit detailed work. NanoVNA-QT is the official PC-based companion software designed by NanoRFE to overcome these hardware limitations, offering professional-grade features like high-resolution sweeps and seamless firmware management. Why Use NanoVNA-QT?
Unlike other community tools, NanoVNA-QT is the native software for the V2 and later series. Key advantages include:
High-Resolution Sweeps: While the device itself is often capped at 201 sweep points, the PC software allows for up to 1024 points, providing far greater detail for narrowband analysis.
Real-Time Visualization: View Smith charts, logmag, impedance, and VSWR plots simultaneously on a large monitor.
Advanced Tools: Features include Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) for distance-to-fault measurements and port length extension to correct for cable loss after calibration.
Official Firmware Updates: NanoVNA-QT is the primary method for flashing new firmware to the S-A-A-2 hardware. Setting Up the Connection
Download and Install: Get the latest binary release from the official NanoRFE software page.
Drivers: On Windows, you may need to install the Cypress USB Serial driver included in the download. Linux and macOS typically recognize the device automatically via USB CDC.
Connect: Plug in your S-A-A-2 and select the corresponding COM port under the Device menu in NanoVNA-QT. Calibrating Through the Software
Calibration is handled differently when using a PC. The software cannot access the VNA's internal calibration; you must perform a fresh calibration within the software environment.
NanoVNA S-A-A-2 User Guide | PDF | Low Pass Filter | Usb - Scribd
This paper outlines the functionality and application of the NanoVNA-QT PC software in conjunction with the S-A-A-2 (NanoVNA V2) 3 GHz Vector Network Analyzer. It highlights the software's capabilities for advanced RF measurements, calibration procedures, and firmware management, specifically optimized for the S-A-A-2 hardware. 1. Introduction to S-A-A-2 and NanoVNA-QT
The S-A-A-2 is an open-source, 3 GHz Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) designed by OwOComm, often referred to as the NanoVNA V2. While it can operate as a standalone device with its 2.8-inch display, the NanoVNA-QT software serves as its official, comprehensive PC interface. Key Advantages of Using NanoVNA-QT:
Larger Visualization: Overcomes the limitations of the small standalone screen.
Advanced Data Processing: Allows for greater sweep points and faster analysis. The NanoVNA-QT (Quick Time) software is the official
Firmware Management: Built-in capabilities to update the V2 firmware.
Cross-Platform Support: Compatible with Windows 7+, macOS 10.11+, and Linux. 2. Software Interface and Features
NanoVNA-QT (VNA View) is specifically developed to handle the data structure of the S-A-A-2. Upon launching, it allows the user to establish a connection via a virtual COM port.
Display Management: Provides real-time viewing of S-parameters (S11, S21), including Smith Charts, LogMag, and Phase diagrams.
Sweep Customization: Supports adjustable sweep points, allowing for higher resolution measurements than the default standalone firmware.
Markers and Analysis: Users can add multiple markers to identify specific frequency points, such as resonance or bandwidth.
Data Export: Measurement data can be saved as S-parameter files (e.g., .s1p, .s2p) for further analysis in software like RFSim99 or MATLAB. 3. Calibration Procedures with NanoVNA-QT
To achieve accurate measurements up to 3 GHz, proper calibration is essential. The NanoVNA-QT software simplifies this process using a standard OSLT (Open, Short, Load, Thru) kit.
Preparation: Connect the VNA to the PC and launch NanoVNA-QT. Reset: Select CAL → RESET to clear previous calibrations. Calibration Steps:
Connect the OPEN standard to Port 1 and select OPEN in the software. Connect the SHORT standard to Port 1 and select SHORT. Connect the LOAD standard to Port 1 and select LOAD.
(Optional) Connect the THRU standard between Port 1 and Port 2 for two-port measurements.
Save: Click DONE and save the calibration to a slot (e.g., C0). 4. Firmware Updates via NanoVNA-QT
The software provides a secure method to update the S-A-A-2 firmware.
Enter BOOTLOAD mode on the S-A-A-2 (via device menu or holding down the JOG LEFT button while powering on).
Open NanoVNA-QT and select the device under the Device menu.
Choose the appropriate .bin firmware file and follow the prompts to flash. 5. Conclusion
The NanoVNA-QT software is a crucial utility for maximizing the capability of the S-A-A-2 (NanoVNA V2) hardware. Its superior GUI, calibration wizards, and firmware update tools make it the preferred choice for engineers, students, and hobbyists needing a cost-effective 3 GHz analysis solution.
Disclaimer: As of 2022, many sub-standard clones of the V2 exist. Using the official NanoRFE NanoVNA-QT software ensures better compatibility and performance for genuine S-A-A-2 hardware. To get you the right information, let me know: Are you updating the firmware or doing a measurement?
Do you have the 3GHz version (S-A-A-2) or the 4GHz (V2 Plus4)? Alternatives to nanoVNA-qt While nanoVNA-qt is our primary
Are you seeing a specific error with the COM port or drivers?
I can provide the specific steps or troubleshooting for your situation. NanoVNA software
NanoVNA-QT (also known as VNA View) is the native PC software designed specifically for the (NanoVNA V2) series
. Unlike the original NanoVNA software, it was developed by NanoRFE to support the unique architecture of the V2 hardware, offering enhanced sweep speeds and higher data resolution. Core Features & Benefits High-Resolution Sweeps
: While the on-device display is often limited to 201 points, NanoVNA-QT supports up to 1024 points
per sweep over USB, providing much finer detail for narrowband filters or antennas. Native Compatibility
: It is the official software for the NanoVNA V2 Plus4 and VNA6000 series, fully tested for all V2-based hardware. Advanced Visualizations
: Provides real-time displays of Smith charts, logmag, VSWR, impedance, and phase plots. Time Domain Analysis : Built-in support for
(Time Domain Reflectometry) to measure cable lengths and identify distance-to-fault locations. Firmware Management
: The software includes a dedicated interface for performing firmware updates
via DFU mode, a critical feature for keeping the S-A-A-2's performance optimized. Initial Setup & Connection : Obtain the software from the Official NanoRFE Releases : Windows 7+ users may need the Cypress USB Serial driver
, while Linux and macOS generally recognize the device natively via the USB CDC class. Connection : Connect your S-A-A-2 via USB, open the
menu in NanoVNA-QT, and select the corresponding COM port (e.g., /dev/ttyACM0 Mock Device
: You can use the "mock device" feature to explore the interface even without a physical VNA connected. PC-Based Calibration (SOLT)
Calibration on the PC is similar to the device UI but offers more flexibility with Custom Kit Parameters : Set your frequency range (Start/Stop) under Device > Sweep parameters : Open the Calibration pane to reset old data. : Select the calibration type: (1-port for S11) or (T/R for both S11 and S21).
: Attach your standards (Open, Short, Load, and optionally Thru) to Port 1, clicking the corresponding software button after each connection. to activate the calibration. Data Export and Analysis NanoVNA-QT excels at documenting your work. It allows for: S-Parameter Export
: Save data in Touchstone (.s1p or .s2p) formats for use in professional simulation software. CSV & Image Export
: Quickly export raw data to CSV or capture high-quality screenshots of charts for reports. for cable length measurements? S-A-A-2 - Zenith Antenne
Before diving into the software, let’s clarify the hardware. The S-A-A-2 is a second-generation VNA based on the original nanoVNA design but featuring:
While the S-A-A-2 comes with its own onboard display and touch interface, the screen is small, and the data processing power is limited. This is where nanoVNA-qt becomes indispensable.
The S-A-A-2 screen only shows one Smith chart scale. In nanoVNA-qt, hold Ctrl and drag a box on the Smith chart to zoom into the 0.9 to 1.1 VSWR region. This allows you to perfectly match a high-gain yagi antenna.