5 Tips to Prevent Damaging a Portable Spectrum Analyzer!

RF Spectrum Analyzers are sensitive and expensive pieces of equipment that must be handled with care when operated. If left in the care of an untrained user, not only do the chances of the analyzer getting damaged increase, but the consequent downtime can cost organizations a lot of money. Hence, to prevent precision testing and measuring instruments like a portable spectrum analyzer from overloading and damage, observing the precautionary measures below is necessary.

• Read the RF Spectrum Analyzer input warning label carefully before plugging it into a power source. Maintain a close watch not to exceed the values provided in the user specifications manual, and also indicated by the yellow warning labels on the analyzer.
• Keep the directions for stabilization time, instrument settings, and calibration/alignment requirements in mind or noted so as not to exceed the value input power. For instance, the yellow warning label on the RF analyzer indicates the maximum input power should not exceed 30 dBm (1 W) and 0 Vdc DC Coupled or 100 Vdc AC Coupled.
• A portable spectrum analyzer must be protected when handling and attaching to the power source through extensions. The device or any part of it should not be bent, bumped, or flexed in any way, especially when under test. This can greatly impact the amount of strain on the mounting hardware and the input of filters, attenuators, or cables.
• RF Spectrum Analyzer should always be used with the three-prong AC power cord supplied with the device. Grounding instruments should be of high quality to prevent the build-up of electrostatic charge, which can harm the instrument or the operator. Additionally, any extension cable, power cable, or autotransformer should not be connected without a protective ground conductor.
• Avoid front-end damage to the portable spectrum analyzer by preventing overpowering and keeping the RF input signal level under 30 dBm (1 W). Also, the connected equipment or the DUT (device under testing) should be first reduced from the power source before turning it off. This is crucial to prevent unexpected voltage swell and damaging the front-end components.