The vector network analyzer market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.42%, increasing from $513.9 million in 2021 to $695.4 million by 2028, according to Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence.
This growth will be fueled by advancements in 5G, IoT, and autonomous vehicles. USB VNAs are rapidly gaining popularity due to their affordability, portability, and ease of use, making them an attractive solution for a wide range of engineering applications that continue expanding globally.
Based in Indianapolis, Copper Mountain Technologies (CMT) pioneered USB VNAs in 2011 and is well-positioned to leverage these trends. The company has earned a reputation for its innovative approach to RF testing, partnering with engineers to develop bespoke solutions that address specific needs. By enabling clients to overcome technical barriers, CMT empowers engineers to focus on innovation and push boundaries within an increasingly competitive market.
Copper Mountain Technologies isn’t just selling equipment; it’s enabling engineers to push boundaries and innovate in every measurable way.
Enhancing Adaptability for Engineering Applications
Copper Mountain Technologies supports engineers in tackling some of the most intricate technical challenges. Their vector network analyzers are used by thousands of clients in nearly 100 countries.
For instance, one client developing a quantum computing device needed to carefully control the VNA output power as the signal passed through the peak of resonance to minimize external thermal energy into the system, which would change the result. CMT’s team rose to the occasion, creating a specialized automation script to manage the VNA’s power during measurement. This not only solved the client’s immediate issue but also expanded CMT’s expertise in quantum computing applications, establishing a deeper connection with research communities.
One major challenge for engineers is the need for adaptable and user-friendly tools. CMT addresses this with VNAs controlled via user interfaces on external PCs. Their VNAs’ compatibility with Windows or Linux OS allows users to benefit from modern computing power, larger displays, and enhanced reliability.
This approach enables engineers to store and retrieve customized setups directly from their PCs, streamlining processes and saving time while eliminating unnecessary complexity.
To keep pace with technological advancements, CMT develops “plug-in” applications that simplify complex measurements. These applications are a game-changer for engineers, making precision measurements more accessible. They also have found that often, engineers are not using the VNAs as the only piece of test equipment in their measurement setup. While CMT is focused on vector network analyzers, being an authority in VNA measurements, their expert engineering team supports the whole test setup their customers need. They integrate with many equipment and software solutions and can help customers with any automation needs, ensuring a comprehensive support system is always in place.
Educating Engineers: Knowledge is Power
Education is the foundation of Copper Mountain Technologies’ strategy. The company has built an extensive library of webinars, white papers, and technical resources for engineers. These materials guide them through VNA basics, advanced measurement techniques, and software usage. The resources are freely accessible, making high-quality RF education available to engineers at all levels.
CMT actively engages with engineers through trade shows, professional organizations like IEEE, Society of Broadcast Engineers, microwave clubs, university classrooms, etc. These outreach efforts position the company as a thought leader while fostering a deeper understanding of USB VNAs’ capabilities in diverse applications.
For hands-on experience, CMT offers free instrument trials. Engineers can use VNAs in their own environments, ensuring the tools meet their specific needs. During these trials, CMT’s application engineers provide tailored support, helping clients optimize the instruments for their projects. This approach not only builds trust but also highlights the practical value of CMT’s solutions.
Prospective clients can download and test the VNA software directly from CMT’s website. The software can be used in demonstration mode without a measurement module connected. There is a toggle in the software that allows for emulating measurements and allows for a user to test functionality of the VNA software with ease.
At Copper Mountain Technologies offer a vast library of on-demand webinars, accessible at any time through their website. Their team of VNA experts frequently attends seminars and events to present insights on utilizing their equipment for various measurement types and applications. The company actively supports educational initiatives for students and professional organizations alongside serving its customer base. Additionally, their skilled sales team and engineers are always available to address inquiries about their products and software capabilities.
From Drones to Robotic Arms: Versatility in Action
The company’s VNAs have become invaluable tools for engineers, helping them seamlessly integrate them into a wide range of innovative systems:
- Handheld Measurement Scanners: Used for testing random properties, inspecting aircraft cables, and analyzing water content in fruit.
- Robotic Arms: Mounted analyzers scan materials like radomes and fuel tank insulation, showcasing unmatched adaptability.
- Drone-Based Research: VNAs gauge soil moisture and measure snow depth in remote locations, contributing to environmental studies.
- Autonomous Vehicles: Integrated VNAs support ground-penetrating radar, detecting buried pipes and earthquake victims beneath rubble.
- Military Toolkits: Portable VNAs detect defects in cables, aiding critical defense operations.
CMT’s flexibility allows for hardware modifications to fit spatial constraints and compliance with industry standards. This adaptability ensures that clients bring products to market faster while scaling operations seamlessly.
The company also holds ISO 9001:2015 certification, with calibration labs in Indianapolis and Cyprus accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 (2005). In 2022, CMT Europe—a service center and R&D office—was established in Cyprus to better serve European and APAC customers. Repair services are available through CMT and convenient authorized centers worldwide.
Shaping the Future of RF Testing
From tailored quantum computing solutions to seamlessly integrating VNAs into drones and robotic arms, Copper Mountain Technologies stands out for its adaptability and customer-focused approach. With an R&D office and service center in Cyprus, along with sales offices in Singapore, London, and Miami, the company demonstrates a strong commitment to education, innovation, and global support, shaping the future of RF testing one engineer at a time.
These efforts have earned Copper Mountain Technologies industry recognition, including the Frost & Sullivan 2020 Global Customer Value Leadership Award, the 2017 Global USB VNA Product Leadership Award, and the 2015 Global Leadership in Innovation Award.
Read more:
Copper Mountain Technologies Focuses on Enabling Engineers in 2025
