Sense-VNA
RF dielectric sensing
Powered by an integrated VNA
This CEA-Leti technology harnesses a physical property called dielectric permittivity, which describes how an electric current flows through matter. In this case, radio-frequency waves are used to measure transmitted and reflected signals, which are then decoded using a miniaturized vector network analyzer (VNA) on silicon to map the invisible signatures of cells or materials. The result is a measurement technique that is potentially non-invasive and compatible with the demands of integration into portable and wearable devices.
What it can do
This innovation marks a step toward non-invasive detection in a wide range of industries, including:
- Medical: early detection of potentially cancerous cells
- Cosmetics: skin hydration measurement at the point of sale; product efficacy testing for cosmetics R&D
- Wellness: dehydration monitoring integrated into a smart watch
- Agri-food: fermentation process, fruit ripeness, and soil hygrometry monitoring
- Proximity detection: medium-distance obstacle detection for cars (for door and trunk protection, for example).
| What makes it unique
CEA-Leti's on-chip analyzer marks a breakthrough compared to conventional laboratory vector network analyzers. It offers several advantages that make it ideal for embedded systems: - Ultra-miniaturized
- Low power
- Low unit cost
- Versatile and adaptable
This innovative technology makes vector network analysis available outside the lab, creating a wide range of new opportunities for anywhere, anytime non-invasive detection and monitoring. |
Working with CEA-Leti
CEA-Leti is prepared to develop this technology for specific products in partnership with manufacturers. With partnerships ranging from bilateral R&D contracts to affiliate programs, companies of all sizes and types can work with CEA-Leti to integrate this disruptive technology into their next-generation products. CEA-Leti provides end-to-end project support, from circuit to RF design to complete system, through a unique lab-to-fab approach that keeps projects moving efficiently right up to prototyping and transfer to a commercial fab.
Scientific publication
- Yaakoubi, G., et al. (2024). “Direct Magnitude and Phase Measurement in an Inductorless Integrated Vector Network Analyzer for Wideband Ambient Environment Sensing.” Proc. IEEE NEWCAS Conference (NEWCAS), pp. 420-424. 2025. doi: 10.1109/NewCAS64648.2025.11107094.
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