Expandable 3.6-, 6-, and 13.5-GHz signal analyzers feature optional built-in generator
by Dan Strassberg, Contributing Technical Editor -- EDN, April 8, 2010
Anritsu has introduced the MS2830A signal analyzers, which deliver best-in-class speed and accuracy, according to the manufacturer, over a frequency range of 9 kHz to 3.6, 6, or 13.5 GHz in a cost-effective package. Focusing on applications in system integration and production, the new units enable manufacturers of third- and fourth-generation wireless devices and systems to reduce manufacturing costs and increase both product yields and confidence in product performance.
The base model conducts frequency switching and sweeping and transfers batched measurement results in approximately 12 msec. If you install the VSA (vector-signal-analysis) option, the instruments support noise averaging in approximately 0.1 second, several times as fast as do conventional swept-frequency spectrum analyzers. In a 31.25-MHz analysis bandwidth, the VSA option’s FFT-based batch-capture capability greatly increases the speed of inband measurements, such as channel power, adjacent-channel power, and one-box tester.
The high speed does not compromise accuracy: The average noise level without preamplification is –153 dBm at 1 GHz; tertiary phase-intermodulation distortion (third-order intercept) is 15 dBm, and typical total level accuracy is ±0.3 dB. The instruments also perform precise distortion and spurious-frequency measurements. The MS2830A has measurement capabilities that previously required both a spectrum analyzer and a signal generator. An optional built-in signal generator creates a one-box tester that performs transmitter and receiver tests. With everything in one chassis, the resulting configuration costs as much as 30% less than a discrete signal analyzer and signal generator. In addition, the MS2830A consumes no more than 110W, which is 45% less than the power consumption of comparable signal analyzers.
You can customize the units to meet your current test requirements and perform simple and cost-effective upgrades when those needs change. The manufacturer offers such options as a VSA and a vector-signal generator. The new units are compatible with the manufacturer’s application software that allows you to configure an analyzer to conduct quality analysis on LTE (long-term-evolution), W-CDMA (wireless code-division/multiple-access)/HSDPA (high-speed-downlink packet access), GSM (global-system-for-mobile-communication), and other wireless signals. The base MS2830A sells for $14,200.
