How does the Bode-500's portability benefit field applications?

The Bode-500's compact, fanless design weighing only 2.0 kg makes it ideal for field testing and on-site troubleshooting. The silent operation eliminates cooling fan noise, crucial for noise-sensitive environments. Multiple powering options including PoE and USB-PD enable deployment without dedicated power infrastructure. The rugged construction ensures reliable operation across varying environmental conditions. Combined with the comprehensive measurement capabilities, engineers can perform complete power integrity verification and component characterisation directly at customer sites or in production environments.

What technical support and calibration services are available for the Bode-500?

Omicron-Lab provides comprehensive technical support including calibration and repair services directly from the manufacturer. The Debug Store, as an authorised distributor, offers local UK support and expertise in power electronics applications. The Bode Analyzer Suite software receives regular updates with new features and improvements, available as free downloads. Comprehensive documentation, application notes, and video tutorials support users in maximising the instrument's capabilities. The instrument complies with international EMC, RoHS, and safety standards with appropriate certifications.

Is the Bode-500 suitable for educational and research applications?

Absolutely, the Bode-500 serves as an excellent educational platform combining vector network analysis, frequency response analysis, and impedance measurement in a single, intuitive instrument. The included Bode Analyzer Suite provides an easy-to-use interface with comprehensive documentation and tutorial materials. Students and researchers benefit from the instrument's ability to demonstrate fundamental concepts in power electronics, control system stability, and component characterisation. The SPICE model generation feature provides valuable hands-on experience in measurement-based modelling techniques essential in modern electronic design.

What connectivity and powering options does the Bode-500 offer?

The Bode-500 provides flexible connectivity through USB-C and Ethernet interfaces, supporting various powering configurations including Power over Ethernet (PoE), USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), or standard 24W power adapter. This versatility enables deployment in diverse testing environments from laboratory benches to field applications. The Ethernet connectivity supports network-based control and data sharing, whilst the USB-C interface ensures compatibility with modern computing platforms. The multiple powering options eliminate the need for separate power infrastructure in many installations.

How does the SPICE model generation feature work in the Bode-500?

The Bode-500's advanced SPICE modelling capability automatically generates measurement-based electrical models from impedance test data through sophisticated curve fitting algorithms. Users can select from pre-programmed circuit templates or utilise the general network synthesis algorithm supporting up to 20 poles for maximum accuracy. The system provides user-defined target error percentages, various weighting options, and passivity enforcement to ensure stable simulation models. The feature exports SPICE 3 compatible subcircuit netlists ready for use with any simulator, dramatically reducing model development time whilst ensuring accuracy based on actual measured performance.

What measurement accuracy can be expected from the Bode-500 VNA?

The Bode-500 delivers exceptional measurement accuracy with a dynamic range exceeding 120 dB and source level accuracy of ±0.2 dB from DC to 100 MHz, extending to ±0.6 dB from 100 MHz to 450 MHz. The instrument's high linearity and low noise floor enable accurate measurements of components and systems with impedances ranging from microhms to megohms. Its 50Ω input impedance return loss exceeds 28 dB (typically >35 dB) up to 100 MHz, ensuring minimal measurement uncertainty. The precision is further enhanced through comprehensive calibration routines and error correction algorithms.

Can the Bode-500 perform automated measurements and integrate into test systems?

Yes, the Bode-500 features comprehensive automation capabilities through its standalone SCPI interface accessible via Ethernet or USB-C connections. Unlike many competing systems, the Bode-500 operates independently without requiring a Windows-based control computer for automated measurements. The instrument supports platform-independent programming through SCPI commands, LabVIEW drivers, and .NET interfaces. This flexibility enables integration into existing test systems and automated production environments whilst maintaining consistent measurement accuracy and repeatability.

What power integrity applications can the Bode-500 VNA address effectively?

The Bode-500 VNA excels in comprehensive power integrity testing, including PDN impedance measurements, voltage regulator module (VRM) output impedance characterisation, and switching converter stability analysis. It effectively measures ultra-low impedances in the microhm to milliohm range, critical for modern high-current applications. The instrument supports both 1-port and 2-port shunt-through measurement methods for accurate low-impedance characterisation, loop gain measurements, and power supply rejection ratio (PSRR) testing. Its capability extends to characterising decoupling networks, identifying critical resonances, and verifying power distribution network designs against specifications.

How does the Bode-500 compare to high-end vector network analysers from Keysight and Rohde & Schwarz?

Whilst premium VNAs from Keysight and Rohde & Schwarz excel in high-frequency applications up to several GHz, the Bode-500 specialises in the critical low-frequency to mid-frequency range essential for power integrity verification. The Bode-500's unique advantage lies in its ability to measure from 10 mHz, which is particularly valuable for PDN analysis and switching converter stability measurements that these higher-frequency instruments cannot adequately address. Additionally, the Bode-500 offers superior ease of use with its integrated Bode Analyzer Suite and automated SPICE model generation, features typically requiring expensive add-on software packages with premium VNAs.

What makes the Omicron-Lab Bode-500 VNA unique compared to traditional vector network analysers?

The Bode-500 VNA distinguishes itself through its ultra-wide frequency range from 10 mHz to 450 MHz, specifically optimised for power integrity and switching converter applications. Unlike conventional VNAs that focus primarily on RF applications, the Bode-500 combines vector network analysis, frequency response analysis, and impedance analysis in a single instrument. Its exceptional low-frequency performance and 120 dB dynamic range enable accurate measurements of power distribution networks (PDNs) and ultra-low impedances that are critical in modern electronic design. The instrument's integrated SPICE model generation capability with advanced curve fitting algorithms sets it apart from premium competitors.

Is it possible to get a trial or demo of the Bode 500 VNA?

Yes, it is possible to arrange a trial of the Bode-500. The first production units for demonstrations and sale will be available in November and we can arange this then.

John Legg

What is the warranty for the Bode-100?

The Bode-100 comes with a 2-year warranty.

Is the Bode-100 compatible with any software?

The Bode-100 is compatible with Omicron-Lab's Bode-Analyzer software, which allows for easy data analysis and visualization.

What is the maximum measurement speed of the Bode-100?

The Bode-100 has a measurement speed of up to 10 measurements per second.

What is the frequency range of the Bode-100?

The Bode-100 has a frequency range of 1Hz to 50MHz.

What types of measurements can the Bode-100 perform?

The Bode-100 can perform a wide range of measurements, including small-signal stability, input and output impedance, gain and phase margin, power factor, total harmonic distortion, and conducted and radiated emissions.

What is the Omicron-Lab Bode-100?

The Omicron-Lab Bode-100 is a vector network analyzer (VNA) designed for small-signal stability and frequency-domain analysis of electronic circuits.