I am considering to buy one of the Spectran spectrum analyzers in this range:
I am aware of the many uses up to 2.5GHz, but what type of signal sources would I not be able to measure by not going for a 4, 6 or 8 GHz model?
I refer to the spectrum coverage here, not sensitivity which also seems to increase with each 100 or so euros.
BTW has anyone seen any product that is better value than these for the price?
Colin Style
Why do you want to buy a spectrum analyzer? What do you want to measure with it? BTW also look at the start frequency of the spectrum analyzer.
-- Failure does not prove something is impossible, failure simply indicates you are not using the right tools... nico@nctdevpuntnl (punt=.) --------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Colin
How about a vector network analyzer (VNA)?:
Network analyzer (electrical):
Links:
(PS: I have absolutely no experience with these products)
TAPR Vector Network Analyzer:
electronicspecifier.com: PC-based 3MHz to 3GHz Vector Network Analysers:
.
My advice: Before you buy ANY spectrum analyzer, try to read the following two books:
Modern Spectrum Analyzer Theory and Applications Modern Spectrum Analyzer Measurements
While pricey, you can still get them on Amazon.
Both are authored by Morris Engelson, and IEEE Fellow and past president (or past vice-president?) of engineering at Tektronics, a leading manufacturer of high-performance spectrum analyzers. He goes to great lengths in the Theory & Applications book on exactly what SA specifications mean, what they DO NOT, and how to compare two analyzers that have differing specifications under real-world conditions. Morris used to give great seminars on the specification, selection and use of spectrum analyzers on real-world problems, but he may have now retired from such things...? His books, used in those seminars, are pure gold - in my opinion. . Here's a sample of what I'm talking about from his website:
-mpm
To answer your question, you can review Part-2, FCC Rules, to review US frequency allocations, etc... TV point-to-point microwave is often in the 7 GHz band, for example. That said, you should only buy what you really need - unless you are loaded with cash. These days, frequency range is much less important that a lot of the signal processing apps that are glommed onto the machine. It depends on what you do (or intend to do) with the instrument. You may find an analyzer dedicated to the task at hand is much more useful than a general purpose model that covers a great deal of spectrum.
Hi Colin
Can you plainly tell what you intend to measure? Fun? Repair? Education? (Why?)
Hi Colin
There is also waterfall SA/receivers - real-time SA:
You simply drag the yellow filter over the frequency interval you want to hear...that is how easy a receiver is today ;-)
WebSDR at K7UEB the Walla Walla University Club Station:
Not on-line pt: WebSDR on nine bands:
A Brief Discussion of Some Software DSP Solutions I've tried:
On-line VLF receiver (selected dynamic spectra):
Online Web Receivers:
On 7 Maj, 16:40, Glenn wrote: ...
...
Wrong ;-)
Actually many users can simultaneously listen and change receiving frequencies.
You can even see what others are listening to.
/Glenn
ElectronDepot website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.