From 6G to quantum computing and AI: How a 1950s invention shapes tech giants of today and tomorrow

Discover 75 years of Vector Network Analyzers and how this Rohde & Schwarz innovation quietly enables our digital age.
Ever wondered what makes your smartphone, satellite, or self-driving car function flawlessly? Meet an unsung hero behind it all: the Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). This 75-year-old technology was invented by Rohde & Schwarz pioneers and is an invisible enabler of RF engineering. In this episode, we unravel its journey from analog labs to AI-driven precision, and why it’s more vital now than ever.

Explore with us

• The Birth of a Game-Changer: How the Z-g-Diagraph pioneered Smith chart visualization in 1950

• Everyday Tech, Supercharged: Why to rely on VNAs to test 12M+ smartphone filters per week

• Beyond the Lab: About a surprising application in astrophysics to explore black holes

• Future-proof innovations: How VNAs adapt to quantum computing, terahertz tech, and AI-driven systems

• Culture check: What drives Rohde & Schwarz engineers to continuously push technological boundaries

Our guest

• Michael Fischlein, Vice President Spectrum & Network Analyzers, EMC and Antenna Test Equipment at Rohde & Schwarz, shares firsthand insights into how VNAs have quietly shaped 75 years of innovation, from radar systems to tomorrow’s quantum breakthroughs.

Our hosts

• Markus Haller, Rohde & Schwarz

• Inga Müller-Siedentopp, Rohde & Schwarz

Our topics

Vector Network Analyzer (VNA), test and measurement, wireless communications, component testing, mass production, 5G, quantum computing, 6G, Rohde & Schwarz, RF testing, RF engineering, automotive radar, satellite tech, astrophysics, AI-driven systems, terahertz communication

Join the conversation

Do you have suggestions? What topics are you interested in? We look forward to your email at podcast@rohde-schwarz.com

Deep dive

Find out more about the history of 75 years of vector network analyzers (rohde-schwarz.com/products/test-and-measuremen…)

Discover the full Rohde & Schwarz vector network analyzer portfolio (rohde-schwarz.com/products/test-and-measuremen…)

Watch this video learn when to use an LCR meter vs a VNA (youtube.com/watch?v=PahPyzaZv2g)

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About us

Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its leading-edge solutions. Committed to innovation for more than 90 years, the independent technology group acts long-term and sustainably, making it a reliable partner to its industry and government customers worldwide.

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