Exploring the Spectrum Analyzer Basics!

Spectrum analyzers have been around for quite some time but are still a mystery to a lot of people. Given that not everyone will have a use for this equipment, understanding its purpose and application can be an eye-opener. Many professionals involved in research and testing have found enormous use for a spectrum analyzer once they know its design and acknowledge its importance.

Spectrum analyzers have a myriad of uses and to varying degrees as well. A spectrum analyzer can do it all by ranging from a straightforward amplitude and frequency measurement to complex application-specific measurements. There are also different types of spectrum analyzers and analyzers with different measuring wavelengths. For example, a 3GHZ spectrum analyzer would perform differently than a 6GHz spectrum analyzer. These swept-tuned, superheterodyne analyzers have evolved for years since their invention. Today, spectrum analyzers and vector signal analyzers combine the functionality of previously designed spectrum analyzers for analog, vector, and fast Fourier transforms measurements.

 

Where are Spectrum Analyzers used?

A 3GHz spectrum analyzer can be applied to numerous R&F-related requirements. For example, engineers often check cellular radio systems for harmonics of the carrier signal in order to prevent interference between systems at a similar frequency. Alternatively, a 6GHz spectrum analyzer can catch any distortion of the message modulated onto a carrier. What actually happens is that third-order intermodulation occurs when two tones of a complex signal modulate each other. This phenomenon can fall within the band of interest, meaning a sophisticated filter (here, a spectrum analyzer) is required to remove them.

Additionally, government agencies also find the use of a 3GHz and 6GHz spectrum analyzer in their daily operations. They need a spectrum to monitor the myriad of frequency bands through different activities such as wireless internet, mobile phones, emergency communications, etc. The value that an industry-grade, high-quality 3GHz spectrum analyzer brings to these workings helps prevent interference by other channels.

 

Therefore, understanding the application of spectrum analyzers is just the first step toward a world of undiscovered findings. So, invest in high-quality equipment from a trusted supplier and catch every signal accurately!