What types of spectrum analyzers are there and what are their functions?

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What types of spectrum analyzers are there and what are their functions? [Copy link]

Spectrum analyzer is an important tool for analyzing the spectrum characteristics of signals and is widely used in electronic engineering, communications, aerospace, medical and other fields. According to different classification standards, spectrum analyzers can be divided into many types, each of which has its specific function and application scenario.

1. Main types of spectrum analyzers

1. Superheterodyne spectrum analyzer
   • Working principle : Mix the input signal with the local oscillation signal to obtain the intermediate frequency signal for processing.
   • Features : It has high sensitivity and resolution, but the cost is higher.
   • Application : Widely used in the research and development, production and maintenance of electronic equipment, such as detecting interference signals in circuits, debugging filters, etc.
2. Direct Digital Spectrum Analyzer
   • Working principle : Using digital signal processing technology, the input signal is directly subjected to discrete Fourier transform (FFT) to obtain spectrum information.
   • Features : It has high measurement speed and accuracy, but is limited by technical indicators such as sampling rate and storage depth.
   • Application : Suitable for occasions that require rapid spectrum analysis, such as signal detection and interference troubleshooting in communication systems.
3. Swept Spectrum Analyzer (SSA)
   • How it works : Convert the time domain input signal to the frequency domain using a tuning element to sweep along the desired frequency range.
   • Features : It can continuously display the spectrum characteristics of the signal and is suitable for analyzing continuous and periodic signals.
   • Application : Widely used in various fields of radio technology, such as electronic countermeasures, satellite communications, mobile communications, etc.
4. Real-time Spectrum Analyzer (RTSA)
   • Working Principle : Using superimposed FFT while scanning, it is possible to capture signals of very short duration and continuously capture signal information within a set frequency range.
   • Features : It can display the spectrum characteristics of the signal in real time, and is suitable for analyzing non-repetitive stationary random processes and transient processes.
   • Application : Used to capture and analyze short-term signal events in the fields of communications, radar, electronic countermeasures, etc.
5. Vector Signal Analyzer (VSA)
   • How it works : Downconverting before digitization extends functionality to the RF frequency range, enabling fast, high-resolution spectrum measurements, demodulation analysis, and advanced time domain analysis.
   • Features : Particularly suitable for measuring complex signals, such as pulse signals, transient signals or modulated signals.
   • Applications : Communications, video, broadcasting, acoustic navigation, and ultrasonic imaging systems.

2. The main function of spectrum analyzer

1. Signal detection and analysis : Spectrum analyzer can detect the power distribution of signals at different frequencies and analyze signal parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and phase.
2. Interference troubleshooting : In communication systems, spectrum analyzers can be used to detect interference signals, helping engineers locate and resolve interference problems.
3. Performance evaluation : During the R&D and production of electronic equipment, spectrum analyzers can be used to evaluate the performance of equipment, such as transmitter performance optimization and filter debugging.
4. Spectrum monitoring : In radio spectrum management, spectrum analyzers are used to monitor spectrum usage and ensure the rational use of spectrum resources.
5. Biomedical signal analysis : In the medical field, spectrum analyzers can be used to analyze biomedical signals, such as electrocardiogram signals and electroencephalogram signals, to provide a basis for disease diagnosis and treatment.

In summary, spectrum analyzer, as a multifunctional electronic measuring instrument, plays an important role in many fields such as electronic engineering, communication, aerospace, and medical treatment. Different types of spectrum analyzers have different characteristics and advantages, and are suitable for different application scenarios and needs.

wangerxian

It turns out there are so many types of spectrum analyzers. I have only used one of them, but I don’t know which one it is.

秦天qintian0303

wangerxian posted on 2024-8-23 17:11 It turns out that there are so many types of spectrum analyzers. I have only used one of them, but I don’t know which one it is.

I don't really understand it if I haven't used it. I thought spectrum analyzer was just a category.

wangerxian

Qintianqintian0303 posted on 2024-8-24 10:02 I don't know much about it if I haven't used it. I thought spectrum analyzer was just a category.

Yes, the specific application scenarios may be different. Most of them are universal.

giftdreamer

Now signal analyzers, receivers, etc. are also included in the spectrum analyzer.