The RSA507A 9 kHz to 7.5 GHz, 40 MHz Acquisition Bandwidth Portable USB Real Time Spectrum Analyzer was built to bring real-time spectrum analysis to solving the problems of spectrum managers, interference hunters and network maintenance personnel who need to track down hard to find interferers, maintain RF networks and keep records of their efforts. The heart of the system is the USB-based RF spectrum analyzer that captures 40 MHz realtime bandwidths with great fidelity in harsh environments. With 70 dB spurious free dynamic range and frequency coverage to 7.5 GHz, all signals of interest can be examined with high confidence in your measurement results. The USB form factor moves the weight of the instrument off of your hands, and replaces it with a lightweight Windows tablet or laptop. Holding a light PC instead of a heavy spectrum analyzer means you can move faster for longer and get your work done faster.

 

The optional tracking generator (Option RSA507A 04) enables gain/loss measurements for quick tests of filters, duplexers and other network elements, and you can add cable and antenna measurements of VSWR, return loss, distance to fault and cable loss as needed.

The Tektronix RSA507A operates with SignalVu-PC, a powerful program used as the basis of Tek's traditional spectrum analyzers. SignalVu-PC offers a deep analysis capability previously unavailable in high performance batteryoperated solutions. Real-time processing of the DPX spectrum/ spectrogram is enabled in your PC, further reducing the cost of hardware. Customers who need programmatic access to the instrument can choose either the SignalVu-PC programmatic interface or use the included application programming interface (API) that provides a rich set of commands and measurements directly. Basic functionality of the free SignalVu-PC program is far from basic. Base version measurements are shown below.

With 40 MHz of real-time bandwidth, the unique DPX spectrum/ spectrogram shows you every instance of an interfering or unknown signal, even down to 15 μs in duration. The following image shows a WLAN transmission (green and orange), and the narrow signals that repeat across the screen are a Bluetooth access probe. The spectrogram (upper part of the screen) clearly separates these signals in time to show any signal collisions.

 

Finding unexpected signals is easy with unattended mask monitoring. A mask can be created on the DPX spectrum display, and actions taken upon every violation, including stop, save a picture, save acquisition, or send an audible alert. In the illustration below, a mask violation has occurred in red on the mask, and a picture of the screen was saved as a result. Mask testing can be used for unattended monitoring and when playing back recorded signals, enabling testing for different violations on the same signals.

 

Direction finding and signal strength measurements are quick and easy with the standard SignalVu-PC software. In the illustration below, using the available Alaris smart antenna, a compass continuously monitors antenna direction while the signal strength monitor performs measurements and provide audio indication of signal strength. When combined with the MAP option for SignalVu-PC, signal strength and azimuth are automatically placed on the map of your choice.

 

The tracking generator (Option RSA507A 04) is controlled via SignalVu-PC. A bandpass filter response from 800 MHz to 3 GHz is shown below. Option SV60 adds return loss, cable loss, and distance to fault.

SignalVu-PC offers a wealth of application-oriented options available either installed on the instrument, or as a floating license that can be moved between instruments or attached to your PC. Applications include:

• General-purpose modulation analysis (27 modulation types including 16/32/64/256 QAM, QPSK, O-QPSK, GMSK, FSK, APSK)
• EMC/EMI analysis with CISPR peak, quasi-peak, and average detectors
• Buetooth analysis of Basic Rate, Low Energy, and Bluetooth 5. Some support of Enhanced Data Rate
• P25 analysis of phase I and phase 2 signals
• WLAN analysis of 802.11a/b/g/j/p, 802.11n, 802.11ac
• LTE FDD and TDD Base Station (eNB) Cell ID and RF measurements
• Mapping
• Pulse analysis
• AM/FM/PM/Direct Audio Measurement including SINAD, THD
• Playback of recorded files, including complete analysis in all domains
• Signal classification and survey

• 9 kHz to 7.5 GHz frequency range covers broad range of analysis needs
• 40 MHz acquisition bandwidth enables real time analysis for transient capture and vector analysis
• High speed full-span sweeps (70 GHz/sec) for fast setup and discovery
• Standard GPS/GLONASS/Beidou receiver for mapping
• Tracking generator for gain/loss, antenna and cable measurements (Optional)
• DataVu-PC software enables multi-unit recording in variable bandwidths
• SignalVu-PC software offers real time signal processing with DPX
• Mil-Std 28800 Class 2 environmental, shock and vibration specifications for use in harsh conditions
• Internal battery for extended field operations
• Spectrum/Spectrogram to minimize time spent on transient and interference hunting
• EMC/EMI pre-compliance and troubleshooting - CISPR detectors, predefined standards, limit lines, easy accessory setup, ambient capture, failure analysis, and report generation
• 15 usec minimum signal duration with 100% probability of intercept ensure you see problems first time, every time
• Application programming interface included for development of custom programs

• General purpose spectrum analysis
• Radio network installation and maintenance
• Spectrum monitoring
• Spectrum management
• Interference hunting
• EMI/EMC compliance testing and troubleshooting
• Spectrum operations
• Radiation hazard (RADHAZ) testing
• Emissions control (EMCON) monitoring
• Signal intelligence (SIGINT) monitoring