Real-time spectrum analyzer delivers advanced analysis at a lower price

By Gina Roos, editor-in-chief

RIGOL Technologies expands its RF test portfolio with the addition of the new RSA3000E spectrum analyzer that combines the high performance of a swept spectrum analyzer with the analysis capability of a real-time analyzer. At a starting price of $1,799, the new spectrum analyzer, with “UltraReal ” real-time analysis, gives test engineers access to advanced capabilities not previously available to them due to cost.

The spectrum analyzer is available in 1.5-GHz and 3-GHz models with available tracking. Standard features include 10 MHz of real-time analysis bandwidth, and a 9.3 microsecond 100% POI. The RSA3000E also provides the same seven visualization modes and triggering capability as RIGOL’s other UltraReal products.

The RSA3000E can function as a traditional swept spectrum analyzer. Specs include a 1-Hz resolution bandwidth (RBW), noise floor as low as -161 dBm, phase noise of -102 dBc/Hz, and a full span sweep as fast as 1 ms, which provides a powerful analyzer for the entry level customer, said the instrument maker.

The spectrum analyzer’s advanced analysis capabilities make it suited for embedded IoT engineers who are integrating RF, and test engineers conducting EMI pre-compliance testing. To meet these specific requirements, RIGOL offers two options — an integrated EMI pre-compliance option (RSA3000E-EMI) that provides a complete EMI pre-compliance solution, and an integrated ASK/FSK Demodulation Option (RSA3000E-ASK/FSK).

The RSA3000E-EMI allows engineers to measure, compare, analyze, and report on EMI issues throughout their design process. Features include integrated CISPR bandwidths and detectors, simple limit line construction, automated multi-segment scan, and up to three simultaneous detectors.

The EMI pre-compliance option also includes advanced capabilities such as real-time detector measurements, automated peak/limit searches and simple correction table integration for easier configuration and analysis. The set-up, storage, and report generation capabilities also make it easy to document, share, and repeat tests, the company said.

The RSA3000E-ASK/FSK allows RF engineers to characterize ASK and FSK modulation schemes. The demodulation application gives engineers the ability to utilize up to 13 integrated measurement functions including I/Q waveform and RF envelope, constellation and vector diagrams, symbol level decode, time and frequency, and bit error analysis against known sequences.