FAQ

Do I need to install anything else to use ARES?

Most features in ARES work out of the box.

For TikZ export:

  • The required matlab2tikz package is already bundled inside the ARES src folder.

  • No external installation is required.

To ensure your environment is correctly configured, visit the Getting Started page for setup steps and required MATLAB toolboxes.

How do I find my instrument’s VISA address?

You can obtain the instrument’s VISA address in several ways:

  • On the instrument front panel (check LAN or IO settings).

  • Use Keysight Connection Expert or similar software to scan your local network for supported devices.

Keysight Conection Expert

My instrument is not connecting. What should I check?

If ARES is unable to connect to your instrument:

  • Make sure the instrument and computer are on the same network.

  • Verify that the IP addresses and subnet masks are compatible.

  • Test the connection by pinging the device using the command line:

ping XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX

  • Ensure the VISA resource string is correctly formatted and entered in the instrument database.

Can I edit the instrument list manually?

Yes, the instrument database is a .csv file located at:

<userpath>/ARES/instrument_database.csv

You can open it in Excel, VS Code, or a text editor. Just make sure you preserve the format:

  • Column headers: Manufacturer, Model, Address

  • One row per instrument

Where are my saved test results and logs stored?

All logs and configuration files are stored in your MATLAB user path under the ARES directory:

<userpath>/ARES/

This includes:

  • ARES_Error_Log.txt – logs internal app errors

  • ARES_Measurement_Log.txt – logs the duration of each test

  • instrument_database.csv – stores instrument addresses

Measurement results are saved wherever you choose when prompted after a test run. ARES opens a folder selection dialog, and you select the location.

ARES Directory

How do I show hidden tabs in the app?

If you don’t see all available tabs, right-click and hold on the tab menu bar to expand hidden modules.

Expand Menu Tabs

Why can’t I export a plot as PDF or TikZ?

Not all plot types support every export format:

  • TikZ only works for Cartesian 2D plots.

  • Polar plots cannot be exported using TikZ.

  • PDF export is not supported for 3D radiation plots.

VNA isn’t returning expected values, what should I do?

Unexpected or incorrect measurements are usually caused by instrument misconfiguration, cabling issues, or calibration mismatches.

Here’s a checklist to troubleshoot:

  • Verify instrument calibration:

    • Use a calibration kit or eCal module to calibrate the VNA at the measurement plane (where the DUT and reference antenna connect).

    • Calibration should be done before connecting the VNA to ARES, using the same frequency range and number of sweep points you plan to use.

  • Don’t change the VNA frequency sweep settings after calibration:

    • Once calibration is complete, do not adjust Start/Stop Frequency or Sweep Points in the app.

    • ARES reads the sweep settings from the VNA to preserve the calibrated state.

  • Check cables and terminations.

  • Inspect connectors for damage or wear.