Impedance analysis can also be used to characterize materials exhibiting dielectric behavior such as biological tissue, foodstuffs or geological samples.
Model-derived impedance parameters such as conductance, inductance and capacitance are calculated based on a replacement circuit model and subsequently displayed.
LCR meters also provide impedance measurement functionality, typically with similar accuracy but lower frequency range.
The measurement frequency of LCR meters is generally fixed rather than swept, and cannot be displayed graphically.
A fourth implementation, the vector network analyzer (VNA), can be considered a distinct instrument.