R&S FPC1500 spectrum analyzer functions and test and measurement solutions

Rohde & Schwarz has expanded its R&S FPC spectrum analyzer series with the addition of the R&S FPC1500. This compact instrument combines a spectrum analyzer, a single-port vector network analyzer and a CW signal source. It can be used for education, service, repair, and professional hobbyists. This is the first cost-effective spectrum analyzer on the market that integrates three of the most commonly used instruments by RF engineers.

Munich, April 5, 2018 – The R&S FPC1500 is the world’s first spectrum analyzer to include a one-port vector network analyzer with internal VSWR bridge, an independent CW signal source and a tracking source. Superior quality and innovation come without price increases. Despite being an economical instrument, the R&S FPC1500 shares the same quality standards as high-end Rohde & Schwarz instruments, offering reliable RF performance and comprehensive future-proofing.

1. Instrument functions:

1. Spectrum analyzer

The R&S FPC1500 basic model has a frequency range from 5kHz to 1GHz. It can be upgraded to a high frequency range of 3GHz through options, and other measurement application functions can also be obtained through options. The option function is activated immediately after entering the password and does not require upgrade calibration.

When measuring extremely weak signals, higher sensitivity is required. The noise floor of the R&S FPC1500 is -150 dBm (typ.), which can be further extended to -165 dBm (typ.) by activating the optional preamplifier. . Allows input of maximum RF signal power up to +30 dBm (1W). Due to its high sensitivity and maximum input power, the R&S FPC1500 has a very wide measurement dynamic range.

In addition, the R&S FPC1500 provides the best resolution bandwidth and display among similar products: 1Hz resolution bandwidth and 10.1-inch display (1366x768 pixels), which can better display signal details.

2. Network analyzer

Thanks to the built-in VSWR bridge, the R&S FPC1500 can perform reflection measurements. Allows the user to display the impedance of an antenna or RF circuit under test using a Smith Chart and to detect the location of faults on longer RF cables using distance-to-fault measurements. There is no need to install and remove the external VSWR bridge when switching between spectrum analyzer and network analyzer modes.

3. Signal source

The tracking source integrated into the R&S FPC1500 enables scalar transmission measurements on passive and active RF components that do not generate RF signals, such as amplifiers, filters, RF cables, etc.

Another world first of the R&S FPC1500 is that it can be used as an independent continuous wave (CW) signal source. Specific applications include using a CW signal source as an LO signal when making mixer measurements, or as an input signal for amplifier gain measurements. In addition, the R&S FPC1500 offers a coupled CW mode that couples the frequency of the generated continuous wave signal to the center frequency of the R&S FPC1500 display. In any case of measurement, setting the CW signal frequency equal to the center frequency of the R&S FPC1500 requires only one setup step.

2. Testing and measurement solutions:

1. RF port impedance verification

(A well-matched RF port is a crucial aspect of any RF system. For example, a matched port protects the amplifier output port from overloading with reflected power. This undesirable reflected power can damage the entire amplifier. Matched The port also maximizes power transfer, effectively extending the battery life of wireless products, such as those used in the Internet of Things (IoT).

2. Antenna matching in IoT and low-power devices

(Antennans have become an integral part of consumer electronics, even in small portable devices that rely on energy sources with limited capacity. Therefore, antennas need to be physically small and power efficient.)

3. Use switching power supply for EMI debugging

(Currently, R&D engineers are required to meet challenging time-to-market targets. Extending product development times and delaying product launches is costly in terms of missed opportunities and market share. A large number of products fail the first time they are tested for EMC compliance. Every day engineers spend debugging, isolating faults, and correcting EMI problems delays the time to market.)

4. Efficiently measure key performance parameters of mixers

(Using the R&S®FPC1500 three-in-one spectrum analyzer to measure the characteristics of an RF mixer with built-in local oscillator)

5. Test low-power Bluetooth transmission signals in a more intelligent way

(Intelligent verification and decoding of Bluetooth® LE emissions with the reliable and cost-effective R&S®FPC spectrum analyzer.)