Available Sources of RF S-Parameter Data
You don't need your own VNA to analyze RF components. Manufacturers, academic databases, and online communities provide extensive S-parameter libraries.
Source 1: Manufacturer S-Parameter Libraries (Free)
| Manufacturer | S-Param Library URL | Product Types |
|---|---|---|
| Murata | SimSurfing.com | Inductors, capacitors, filters, antenna modules |
| TDK | product.tdk.com | Inductors, capacitors, transformers |
| Qorvo | qorvo.com product pages | LNA, PA, switches, filters |
| Skyworks | skyworksinc.com | PA, LNA, switches, front-end modules |
| Mini-Circuits | minicircuits.com | Amplifiers, mixers, couplers, dividers |
Source 2: NanoVNA (~$50) for Your Own Measurements
The NanoVNA is a low-cost VNA that exports Touchstone files via companion apps:
NanoVNA Original: DC–900 MHz (good), 900 MHz–1.5 GHz (usable) NanoVNA V2: DC–3 GHz (good performance with calibration) NanoVNA-F V2: DC–3 GHz (better dynamic range) Workflow: Calibrate NanoVNA → measure device → export .s2p → RF View
Source 3: Simulation-Based Analysis
For custom designs without measurement equipment:
- Build circuit in RF View Circuit Simulator using manufacturer .s2p blocks
- Add matching network elements (ideal R/L/C)
- Simulate the expected response before building the PCB
- Switch to Real Match for Murata components
- Run Monte Carlo for yield prediction
What You Can Learn Without a VNA
- Whether a component meets its datasheet specifications (using manufacturer .s2p)
- Whether a matching network design will work (circuit simulation)
- Expected yield under production tolerances (Monte Carlo)
- Component selection: which vendor's filter has lower insertion loss?
RF View No-Lab Workflow: Download manufacturer .s2p → load into RF View → analyze, match, simulate, compare. Complete RF analysis on Android without any bench equipment. Free on Google Play.