RF Spectrum Analyzers & Signal Analyzers

A spectrum/signal analyzer measures the amplitude of an input signal versus frequency within the frequency range of the instrument. Traditionally, this instrument measures the power vs. frequency of known and unknown signals. However, modern signal analyzers perform simultaneous assessments of magnitude and phase to enable measurements of complex signals and produce extensive insights into their modulation quality characteristics. A spectrum analyzer is indispensable in fields like telecommunications, RF engineering, and aerospace for tasks like signal characterization, interference tracking, and RF component and system performance evaluation and test.

A traditional spectrum analyzer searches for signals within a spectral bandwidth and provides snapshots of the signal in the frequency or modulation domain. However, this is often not enough information to confidently describe the dynamic nature of modern RF signals.

A signal analyzer, however, includes additional functionality like digital signal processing (DSP) that detects, characterizes, and analyzes signals with complex digital modulation. Signal analyzers can be used to perform more complicated measurements and deeper analysis of RF modulated signals.

Tektronix designs real-time spectrum analyzers (RTSA) to capture, process, and display the spectrum of frequencies in real-time, offering a comprehensive and instantaneous view of spectral activity, while preserving the time-domain information of the signal. This capability is critical for analyzing transient, rapidly evolving, or intermittent signals.

In contrast, non-real time spectrum analyzers usually take longer to sample and process their acquired waveform over a certain bandwidth. While processing these samples they can potentially miss brief, non-repetitive signals, which appear often in dynamic signal environments. Therefore, while traditional spectrum analyzers are effective for analyzing stable, cyclo-stationary signals, RSAs simplify the job of engineers working with applications requiring detailed, real-time observation of complex, and many times unpredictable signals.

This varies with models. Some analyzers cover up to several GHz, offer large instantaneous acquisition bandwidths in the hundreds of MHz, and fine resolution bandwidths as narrow as a few Hz, suitable for detailed analysis. Always match your project's requirements with the analyzer's specifications for optimal results.

Sensitivity refers to the analyzer's ability to detect minimal signal levels, while dynamic range is the range over which the analyzer can provide meaningful measurements without distortion. Additionally, the spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) indicates the analyzer's ability to measure small signals in the presence of large ones, without creating its own spurious responses. This is particularly important in applications where you need to distinguish between actual low-level signals and those generated by the analyzer's own imperfections. Ensuring your spectrum analyzer excels in these areas guarantees more reliable and accurate readings in complex signal environments.

For RF monitoring, recording, and playback applications, look for analyzers with versatile, lossless data streaming and storage. Qualify the analyzer’s easy connectivity (like USB or Ethernet), and data-saving capabilities to ensure smooth integration with other systems and efficient data management and review.

Tektronix USB-based, portable RSA306B and RSA500 models are workhorses designed for field use, focusing on durability, battery life, and ease of transport, while giving you reliable RF measurements.

It's about finding the right tool within your budget that meets your performance needs. Higher-priced models often offer broader frequency ranges, better RF performance such as lower phase noise and spurs.  However, Tektronix cost-effective USB RSAs can be very capable for spectrum monitoring, wireless communications, EMI/EMC pre-compliance, and end-of-line test applications.

Tektronix SignalVu software powers its signal analyzers, regularly adding measurement and analysis functionality, to make signal analyzers more capable and useful tools over time.

Tektronix offers comprehensive technical support and robust warranty, care, and calibration plans for our spectrum analyzers. This includes online resources, expert assistance, traceable calibration with rapid turnaround times, and repair or replacement coverage to ensure your peace of mind and continued productivity.

If you have more queries or need specific advice, feel free to reach out to our expert team!