Load the golden unit and measured units
Open the reference first, followed by the S2P files being evaluated. BenchReport overlays them on the same frequency axis.
Practical S-parameter workflow
How to compare S2P files and identify failed RF limits.
An .s2p file records how a two-port RF device reflects and transmits signals across frequency. Comparing several files helps show whether production units follow a golden reference—and whether each unit meets a defined acceptance limit.
Try the complete example in 60 seconds
Start guided comparisonThree synthetic filters, one deliberate failure, and no file upload.
The comparison workflow
Select the relevant S-parameter
Use S21 for forward transmission or insertion loss, S11 for input reflection or return loss, and S12/S22 when the reverse path or output match matters.
Define the acceptance band
Choose a start frequency, stop frequency, minimum or maximum rule, and threshold. The same rule is applied independently to every visible measurement.
Inspect the worst value and frequency
A simple PASS or FAIL is not enough for diagnosis. Record the limiting value and the exact sampled frequency that caused it.
Preserve the evidence
Carry the comparison chart, rule result, measurement identity and test context into a printable report for review.
BenchReport comparing a golden filter with two units using synthetic S2P measurements.
Worked example: passband insertion loss
The included sample applies an S21 minimum of −2.00 dB from 900 MHz to 1.1 GHz. Two measurements remain above the threshold. The deliberately degraded unit reaches −2.35 dB at 1.1 GHz and therefore fails.
| Measurement | Worst S21 | Frequency | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden reference | −1.20 dB | 1.100 GHz | PASS |
| Unit 017 | −1.45 dB | 1.100 GHz | PASS |
| Unit 042 | −2.35 dB | 1.100 GHz | FAIL |
Why compare locally?
Touchstone files can reveal device performance, design choices and production variation. BenchReport is a static browser application: parsing, plotting and limit evaluation happen on the device rather than sending measurement contents to a remote analysis service.
For more examples of passband, stopband and reflection requirements, read the S-parameter pass/fail limits guide.
Common questions
Which S2P formats are supported?
Common Touchstone 1.0-style DB/angle, magnitude/angle and real/imaginary data with Hz, kHz, MHz or GHz frequency units.
Can I compare S1P files as well?
Yes. S1P measurements can be viewed and evaluated using their S11 trace.
Does BenchReport interpolate limit crossings?
No. Limits are evaluated at the frequency samples present in the source file. The reported worst frequency is an exact sampled frequency.
Is the browser version free?
Yes. The free edition supports three measurements and one acceptance rule. Pro adds unlimited measurements and rules, projects, templates and branded reports.
Engineering limitation
This workflow supports analysis and documentation; it does not replace a calibrated instrument, an approved test procedure or competent engineering review.
Compare the synthetic files now
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