How to use a Spectrum Analyzer; techniques, controls, test methods, hints & tips

[@Cruor34]

Thanks for this. Applying to satcom jobs. I did satcom in the army but I forgot a lot about using a spectrum analyzer. had a lot of "oh yeah now I remember!" moments watching this.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

I'm really glad you found this useful. Hope you manage to secure a good satcom job. And yes spectrum analysers are essential for many of the areas of satcoms equipment.

[@zenmonke]

I really like your intro. The first intro I watched 3 times in a row.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Glad you like - I am very pleased with it. My son-in-law did it and I use it on all the videos for our ElectronicsNotes channel.

[@fredfrancium]

How can we detect the power that antenna receive from environment

[@rominhawk3949]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and doing a very good presentation. I like it; but, I wish you would go over the controls in a bit more details identifying them and how each are used, what effects they produce, etc. Also, some of the fine prints are blurry and hard to tell even at full enlarged view of my 14" laptop monitor. Thanks,

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Sorry we didn't go over the controls in any more detail. The reason for this was to keep the video concise for the majority of viewers. May be another longer video on how to use the controls might be useful.

[@aaravpra5241]

Incredible knowledge

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Thank you.

[@karlkaefer2569]

for me a perfect intro. Many thanks!

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Glad you found it useful.

[@caurus6373]

How about two-channel architecture (TCA) spectrum analyzer BRFNT-26?

[@elou3114]

What different of Spectrum Analyzer and Network Analyzer?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

A spectrum analyzer looks at the spectrum of a signal, i.e. it is a plot of amplitude and frequency. A network analyzer looks at the way a network responds to signals at different frequencies.

[@yolofapper9668]

the rotary knobs with the blue ring thing remind me of R2D2 from Star Wars

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Hmmmm - yes interesting comment. I'll pass it on.

[@genevatapiazapatero5702]

There a usb adaper let u program through spectrum analyser I was wondering it difcult the direction

[@geeseylynn]

Are filters able to be implemented to reduce the frequency noise?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

In a word, yes, they do. The level of noise received is proportional to the bandwidth being received (not the overall scan start to stop, i.e. range). However, this normally results in the scan taking much longer, so there is a trade off. I can remember doing scans where we were looking for very low level spurious signals over a wide range and the scan took many hours. Modern FFT spectrum analysers have some techniques incorporated to help reduce the time taken for a narrow bandwidth scan.

[@moviesforrandy]

i am looking to buy one but not sure what i need

[@ElectronicsNotes]

We cannot advise on the specifics, but you may be interested into e following link: www.electronics-notes.com/articles/test-methods/spectrum-analyzer/spectrum-analyser-specifications-specs.php

[@moviesforrandy]

@@ElectronicsNotes thanks

[@bluename4]

can it be used to determine chemical elements of a material by analyzing its light frequencies spectrum?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Spectrum analysis for these frequencies generally takes a different approach, and does not use RF spectrum analysers.Light frequencies are very much higher than RF and even what are termed microwave frequencies.

[@bluename4]

@@ElectronicsNotes which spectrum analyzers would be appropriate for it?

[@Wes8761]

Wouldnt you need a Gamma Spectrometer for the radioactive elements?

[@thangdoan6889]

Someone can tell me what is RF at 0:19. Thank you so much

[@ElectronicsNotes]

RF stands for Radio Frequency and it usually refers to signals at frequencies into e radio spectrum.

[@thangdoan6889]

@@ElectronicsNotes thank you

[@adhd_with_pennies4867]

@@ElectronicsNotes I very nooby to any of this but can the spectrum analyzer help me find the signal strength of radio controlled vehicles I don't know let's say something like a RC CAR or DRONE or maybe even a JAMMING DEVICE

[@ElectronicsNotes]

@@adhd_with_pennies4867 A spectrum analyzer is not really intended for this, although by adding an antenna to its input some detection like this might be possible. But remember, many of these analyzers are not portable and it might be difficult to move it around to locate positions, etc of the drones, RC cars, etc.

[@subliminalphish]

Can this be used to pin point where a frequency coming from to eventually find the problem source/s. Even if they are not very local? Can it help find any problem ELF/ULF's? If no ok but if yes would I need other equipment and what , if you know? Thanks.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

The main purpose of a spectrum analyzer is to monitor the output from a circuit to which it is directly connected. That said they can sometimes be used with directional antennas or probes to locate the source of interference, but this is not what they are primarily designed to do. They look at the spectrum and see the signals within that spectrum.

[@omaramer3084]

Can the spectrum analyzer display the power spectrum of a signal?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Yes - that is effectively what they do. Any signal levels will be expressed in dBm and it is possible to look at relative levels in terms of dB.

[@starwarsxexocollab1393]

Can you tell me what is the normal/harmless range of a frequency?

[@cannaroe1213]

about 3.9 frequencies + or - 5v BC

[@jamesmaxwell381]

Excellent presentation. Good job! liked & subscribed

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Glad you found it useful. The video took quite a lot of time to make, but I think it was worth while.

[@jamesmaxwell381]

ElectronicsNotes Indeed. I'm gonna binge-watch all your videos ASAP :-)

[@ElectronicsNotes]

That's great - If you can spread the word that would also be a great help. Thanks.

[@heinzhellbarth8157]

James Maxwell .

[@genevatapiazapatero5702]

Can u hook a prob plug to it I was wondering is that what u where doing let me see more world

[@JohnUsp]

Excellent, thanks.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Glad you liked the video. Thanks for your comment.

[@BurgerurgerFPV]

Can i use this to find my quadcopter?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Not sure how because spectrum analysers are used for measuring radio signals within the radio spectrum, not geographically locating the source of them

[@BurgerurgerFPV]

@@ElectronicsNotes i saw someone using what looked like this and as they were getting closer to the quadcopter the signal was getting stronger so they knew they were close,

[@BurgerurgerFPV]

@@ElectronicsNotes someone needs to invent something that locks onto a specific radio frequency then pinpoints the location for you

[@arturosuarez8179]

How can I actually see the actual signal and not these digital lines, in regards to the sweep

[@ElectronicsNotes]

I think what you may be talking about is the fact that a slow sweep and narrow bandwidth means that the signal has sharp peaks and troughs. If you widen the filter bandwidth, speed up the trace, or average the scan over several scans, then it will remove the digital looking nature of the resultant scan. Even though digital methods are used these days, the high performance and price analysers like the one used will not display a trace that is more "digital" looking than an analogue one. It may be more accurate because technology has moved on, but the resolution will be very fine and should not be limited by the digital nature of the test instrument. I hope this helps.

[@ΔέσποιναΠαπαδοπούλου-δ7η]

What happens if I remove the ATT from the analyzer?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

I assume the "ATT" is the attenuator. If this is the case it means the mixer at the very front end of the analyser will receive the full signal. You need to be careful not to overload or damage it.

[@kennethisaac6925]

hi how do I record my logs?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

That will depend upon the specific spectrum analyzer.

[@hoofheartedicemelted296]

Why are they so expensive? If i'm intending to monitor between 10,000hz and 70,000hz and the fundamental signal is around 3.1mhz, is a spectrum analyzer this expensive necessary? Many thanks for any help.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Spectrum analysers require some sophisticated electronics and this increases the cost. Also a lot have top frequencies that extend into the multi-GHz region of the spectrum. For a cheaper option, you may be able to use the FFT function capability on some modern digital oscilloscopes, but this capability is not normally available on the very low end scopes.

[@hoofheartedicemelted296]

@@ElectronicsNotesUnderstood ElectronicsNotes. I appreciate you taking time out to reply. Peace.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

@@hoofheartedicemelted296 Not a problem - apologies for the time it took to reply, I ahed been rather behind with all he comments on the channel.

[@Ohem1]

So a spectrum analyzer is more useful for radio?

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Typically spectrum analysers are used for monitoring radio frequency signals, although audio analysers are also available. Essentially, as the name indicates, a spectrum analyzer looks at the spectrum of a signal - i.e. in the frequency domain. They are used in areas where the frequency content of signals needs to be analyzed and the major area for this is within radio frequency applications.

[@Ohem1]

ElectronicsNotes Thank you for the clarification!

[@santiescuder7887]

nice video, really useful!

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Thanks for your comment - much appreciated. We are working on a few more videos, so I hope they may also be of interest.

[@exploitmediacomedyhouse7642]

i need the software , please

[@ElectronicsNotes]

I suggest you contact the manufacturer.

[@mithiltikadia9568]

Dude saved me from exam

[@ElectronicsNotes]

That’s great. Glad we could help.

[@russellscott7062]

Thank you again. ;-) Michael.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Glad you found the video useful.

[@feliccieandorro408]

hello people … need a honest help from the experts here … need to buy a used spectrum analyzer .. I have 2 in sight .. one is like the one AGILENT on the video, 7ghz like 12 years old, LCD COLOR model and also, same price, also 7ghz, LCD color too, rodhe@schawrz … I am located in USA … what brand do you think is wise to buy .. ? both are 7ghz range, both color LCD .. .more or less same specs .... expert comments are welcome ...!!

[@JAKOB1977]

that's a nice 40Ghz R&S spectrum analyzer you have there, yeah nice, hmm very nice. please take it with you next time you walk down a dark alley in my neighborhood.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Thanks for your comments. Unfortunately the product isn't done and I had to leave it there after I did the video. Am I safe now walking down a dark alley?

[@eem5240]

👍❤️

[@jordanbey870]

So this is yhe machine yhat used radio waves as s weapon..

[@ElectronicsNotes]

It analyses radio signals and tells the content of a radio signal in terms of the frequencies present.

[@FluxCondenser]

Useful, but this is really more “What can a spectrum analyzer do” than “How to use a spectrum analyzer.”

[@cbradiomizfit7562]

I agree. The title says how to use but he's just showing what it does

[@adeshmishra6060]

Thanls

[@genevatapiazapatero5702]

Look up test report read it very amzing info

[@genevatapiazapatero5702]

I like ur voice ausie mate

[@ElectronicsNotes]

I am British from he UK, not Australia. Sorry!!

[@BrentLeVasseur]

I have no idea what Dean Miles said. I need a translator. 😂

[@ElectronicsNotes]

He basically said that you need to look beyond the basic specifications to see how you might be able to capture transients and other signals that need to be worked on in real development scenarios.

[@ro3784]

You said possibly for free. Actually free is fine as long as possible does not violate specific protocols. The idea of scanning a frequency range could be used illegally to scan a paid for service signal: for example paid cell service or even internet service by very intellectual hackers whom have no respect of violations to privacy protocols. | This is an opinion not backed by actual citations but possibilities, by that of individual human greedy nature. It is up to each individual to decide what is right or wrong and then be held in accountability for actions.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Normally it is OK to scan a frequency band provided the spectrum analyser is not connected to an antenna. If you are looking for signals coming out from a circuit, then it needs to scan the full range of frequencies. It normally would not be set to receive external signals from an antenna, which could be illegal in some circumstances.

[@hanisitsobarna4897]

🌴🌴🌴🌴

[@genevatapiazapatero5702]

Thnk so my for info im a brown grey alien I was born grey alien and I have long term memory I found a way to get chips in a program mode I got cured in 2017

[@ykdeyluv]

I have no idea what your saying 😔😊

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Sorry about that. May be look for some other videos that may help.

[@ykdeyluv]

@@ElectronicsNotes Oki

[@tkyewub9724]

bat man

[@pasumani4188]

Please tamil

[@jimmylouis7868]

very expensive

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Sadly good spectrum analyzers are expensive.

[@syedhaider7121]

not well explained and it did not help. i disliked your video,

[@ElectronicsNotes]

Sorry you disliked the video. We try to do as well as we can, but obviously this one did not resonate with you.

[@williambudd2850]

This spectrum analyzer is outrageusly expensive. Do the same thing with the TinySA for less than a hundred dollars!!!

[@ElectronicsNotes]

I think you will find the performance of the R&S spectrum analyzer is far better than the TinySA one which is the reason for the cost. The TinySA will be great for many applications, but not for serious development work.

[@mickblackmore290]

Average price $135,208 USED! It would be nice to see techniques, controls, test methods, hints & tips on something the masses might be able to get there hands on. This is a joke. I find it hard to believe a corp. would hire someone and not expect them to already have a working knowledge of how to use this tool. who in there right mind would let just anyone use something that cost this much is so easy to blow the front end out of. BUT then again Dave Jones (EEVBlog) did find a PLUS $100,000 scope in the dumpster the only thing wrong was a loose plug.

[@ElectronicsNotes]

The reason an expensive spectrum analyser was used was because we actually worked with people from R&S to make the video. The controls and concepts talked about would be the same for any spectrum analyser. In fact we did not address any of the features or performance elements in the video that would only be available on expensive instruments. That said, by their very nature, spectrum analysers do tend to be more expensive. As for companies only employing people who could operate these test instruments, often new graduates, who I often employed, would have wanted videos like this so they could get to grips with them.

[@mickblackmore290]

@@ElectronicsNotes Well I own a Siglent 1032X with all options enabled, watching this video which I hadn't done earlier, I agree, it showed the absolute bare minimum that ALL SA's have, the 3 basic settings that everyone has to know after pushing the power button, Frequency, Span, Amplitude. and then you touched on Phase. but stopped short of saying anything meaningful. I learned nothing except having THAT analyzer would make everything easier to get the results you wanted and at MUCH higher frequencies. The bottom-line is stick to instructional information on analyzers in the price range of the one you own they pretty much will have the same features, and for the most part the buttons laid out in the same way. I still don't know what the purpose of this video was. The title is misleading. You did a great job reading the script. JMO