Production RF Test Workflow
Every RF PCB assembly needs a quick go/no-go S-parameter check before shipment. With a portable VNA and RF View on Android, this can be done at the PCB level without a PC, minimizing test station cost.
Test Station Setup
Equipment: - Portable or bench VNA with pogo pin fixture or SMA connectors - Android phone with RF View installed - USB OTG adapter or WiFi sharing for file transfer - Golden reference .s2p (from known-good first article) Per-board procedure (30–60 seconds per board): 1. Connect board to fixture 2. VNA sweeps → saves .s2p automatically 3. Transfer to phone → open in RF View 4. BW Marker at spec frequency → read S11, BW 5. Delta marker vs golden → flag if deviation >2 dB
Pass/Fail Criteria
| Measurement | Pass Criterion |
|---|---|
| S11 at f₀ | <−10 dB (VSWR <1.92:1) |
| Center frequency f₀ | f₀_spec ± 20 MHz |
| −10 dB bandwidth | Covers required band |
| vs Golden reference | ΔS11 <±2 dB, Δf₀ <5 MHz |
Batch Documentation
Summary Export (end of day): Load all tested boards .s2p → Summary CSV Columns: SN, f₀ (MHz), S11 at f₀ (dB), BW (MHz), Pass? Save to production quality records
RF View PCBA Testing: Fast go/no-go S-parameter test on Android. Load VNA measurement, compare vs golden reference, export test record. Free on Google Play.