Non-destructive testing at microwaves using a vector network analyzer and a two-coordinate mechanical scanner

This paper describes a system for non-destructive testing of radio transparent samples at microwaves. The main components of the system are a vector network analyzer (VNA), one or several stationary antennas connected to it, and a two-coordinate flat mechanical scanner that moves the sample in the antennas vicinity. The VNA and the scanner are controlled by a personal computer, which can acquire the parameters measured by the VNA in a set of pre-programmed positions over the sample. The technical description of the setup, software components, and sample radar images are provided. Possible research applications of the setup and its future improvements are suggested.