Friday 15 March 2019

Everything you need to know about spectrum analyzer specifications

When it comes to a spectrum analyzer, it plays an important role as test equipment for repairing or designing electronic equipment, which uses radio frequency signals. Spectrum analyzers are used in RF testing, development, verification, and validation testing, base service and repair, production, and in installation and service. Depending on your needs, you can choose from different types of spectrum analyzers such as 3GHz Spectrum Analyzer, 6GHz Spectrum Analyzer and more. However, it is necessary to get yourself familiar with spectrum analyzer specifications. Being familiar with spectrum analyzer specifications help you in buying an analyzer as well as in understanding its limitations. 

Read below to learn more about spectrum analyzer specifications. 

Spectrum analyzer specifications - There are various types of spectrum analyzer specifications, depending on the application some are more important than others.

Spectrum analyzer frequency coverage - Frequency coverage is one of the most important specifications of the spectrum analyzer. Usually, a spectrum analyzer can measure from very close to zero Hertz up to its top frequency. When it comes to most applications, the bottom frequency limit is not a problem because RF spectrum analyzers are used for frequencies up to the RF spectrum and sometimes for below 100 kHz. However, the top limit is the major parameter requirement for the frequency coverage specifications.  

Frequency accuracy specification - When it comes to any analyzer, the frequency accuracy is an important specification. It is also called as the Frequency Readout Accuracy and is comprised of errors from various sources, including : 
  • Frequency reference inaccuracy 
  • Span error
  • Center frequency error

 Amplitude accuracy specification - On the other hand, the amplitude accuracy specification of the spectrum analyzer is the utmost importance for any measurements read by the test instrument. The following are the two analyzer specifications associated with amplitude accuracy.  
  • Absolute accuracy specifications 
  • Relative accuracy specifications 

Resolution width specification - The spectrum analyzer specification for resolution width is important only when it’s necessary to measure signals, which are close together. Primarily, the resolution bandwidth is determined by the bandwidth of the filter applied within the analyzer. However, factors like residual FM, filter type, and noise sidebands should be taken into consideration while determining the available useful resolution.

Are you interested in the spectrum analyzer such as 3GHz Spectrum Analyzer and 6GHz Spectrum? Contact AVCOM - (804) 794-2500. They are the leading manufacturer of commercial spectrum analyzers in the USA.