Spectrum Analysis on a Budget - The Industrial Wi-Fi Shop

Being an Industrial Wi-Fi expert, spectrum analysis is not only essential to my work but also one of my favorite aspects of wireless technology. My wife, a veteran elementary teacher, calls me a "visual learner." Honestly, I couldn't agree more. If I can't touch, feel, taste, hear, or see a concept, it becomes challenging for me to understand and comprehend it.

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The beauty of spectrum analysis lies in its graphic representation. It simplifies understanding the raw RF ranges I measure. The peaks, valleys, and colors of a density graph, the lines and motion of a waterfall graph, and the clarity of a simple utilization graph all make sense to me. These visual aids also help me explain these concepts to non-technical clients who need to make financial decisions based on this data.

However, spectrum analysis tools are generally expensive, ranging from thousands to even tens of thousands of dollars. For those working in small companies or independently, affording these tools can be challenging.

Fortunately, there are affordable options for us without the financial backing of a large corporation.

TinySA

The TinySA Spectrum Analyzer by AURSINC is an affordable, handheld device. I bought my version on amazon.com for $65.00 (with free Prime shipping).

It has a frequency range of 100kHz to 960MHz, ideal for industrial sensors and robots using these lower RF bands. The 2.8-inch screen is clear and graphically sharp. However, it cannot record sessions, limiting its usefulness to spot-checking specific environments. There is free software to connect TinySA to your computer, but the visuals and options are basic.

Interestingly, this device also functions as a signal generator, useful for testing various radios or wireless sensors on my workbench.

Recently, AURSINC released a new model, the TinySA Ultra. It has a frequency range of 100kHz to 5.3GHz, includes a 32GB micro-SD card for recording sessions, a larger 4-inch screen, and also serves as a signal generator for 100kHz to 800MHz frequencies.

A quick amazon.com check shows its price ranging from $207.00 to $249.00 US.

RF Explorer

RF Explorer Technologies offers various models in their handheld RF Explorer series. These devices have sturdy metal casings and are heavier than expected, which I found reassuring.

I bought the WSUB1G model with a frequency range of 50kHz to 960MHz. It came with a case to prevent damage in my bag. It was $199.00 from amazon.com.

The screen measures approximately 2.25 inches diagonally and is monochrome, displaying black digital graphics on a light blue backlit background.

The RF Explorer can record sessions, but you need a $50 license for this feature. It records short sessions of up to 250 spectrum sweeps, equivalent to about 1 minute and 15 seconds of recording time. However, multiple recordings are possible. You can playback recordings on the device or connect it to a computer for playback via RF Explorer software for Windows, macOS, or Linux.

The RF Explorer software is free and offers various display options for uploaded recordings or live views from a physically connected RF Explorer handheld device. Viewing options include standard density and waterfall graphs and several 3D representations of your recorded data.

Pricing for different models ranges from $149 to $599, depending on your needs.

Chanalyzer

Chanalyzer by MetaGeek is specialized software that runs on your computer and uses a special wireless adapter that connects via USB. The adapters, part of the Wi-Spy line, come in versions for 900MHz (Wi-Spy 900x – discontinued but available used) and 2.4GHz/5GHz (Wi-Spy dbx). A 6GHz version is also in development along with new software updates.

Chanalyzer is my go-to for spectrum analysis. It offers decent spectrum resolution and an easy-to-use interface. It also has a built-in report generator for pulling specific data for wireless assessments.

To use Chanalyzer, you need to purchase the software and the adapters separately. The Wi-Spy dbx costs around $300, and a Chanalyzer year subscription is $500. However, the subscription includes Tonic, a fantastic Wi-Fi troubleshooting tool. So, while it is more expensive upfront, it provides great value compared to other tools costing thousands of dollars.

Other SDR USB adapters, like the RTL-SDR device, can perform spectrum analysis, but I find the software lacking for professional use. I'm always open to new gadgets, so if you know a good, inexpensive alternative, let me know!

For more information on TinySA Spectrum Analyzers, check out their wiki.

For information on RF Explorer Technologies, visit their website.

For details about Chanalyzer, check out MetaGeek's website.

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Description

The FPC1000 Spectrum Analyzer features a low noise floor and high maximum input power for the best dynamic range in its class. Its resolution bandwidth settings down to 1 Hz resolve fine spectral details. It also boasts the largest and most detailed display in its class at 10.1", WXGA (1366 x 768 pixel) resolution.

Outstanding quality and innovation don't have to come with a high price. The R&S®FPC1000 spectrum analyzer delivers unexpected performance at a budget-friendly price. Engineered in Germany, it's designed to high quality standards. Measure with solid RF performance and benefit from a future-ready, software-upgradeable feature set. The R&S®FPC1000 has the best display in its class and can be controlled via smart wireless remote control software. Excel with these features in education, production, service, or basic research.

Investment protection, high resolution, and easy virtual control make the R&S®FPC1000 ideal for university labs, basic research, as well as production and service facilities. The base instrument's frequency range is from 5 kHz to 1 GHz. Keycode options can unlock higher frequency ranges up to 3 GHz or enable other features when needed.

Class-leading RF performance engineered in Germany. The device's low noise floor and high maximum input power combine to offer the best dynamic range in its class. Resolution bandwidth settings down to 1 Hz provide finer spectral details than other spectrum analyzers in this range.

See more details with high resolution. The R&S®FPC1000 has the largest and most detailed display in its class with a 10.1", WXGA (1366 × 768 pixel) resolution. The display is 26% larger and has a 160% higher resolution than other instruments.

Virtual control allows remote control and measurement. The R&S®FPC1000 supports wired Ethernet and wireless Wi-Fi connectivity. The R&S®InstrumentView for Windows and the iOS/Android app-based R&S®MobileView platforms enable remote control and measurement anytime, anywhere.

10.1" High-Resolution Display

Investment Protection

Fully Frequency-Upgradeable

Buy only what you need. The R&S®FPC1000 is future-ready thanks to the unique Rohde & Schwarz upgrade path. The base unit covers a frequency range from 5 kHz to 1 GHz, with keycode-activated upgrades available. Upgrade to higher frequency applications with upgrades to 2 GHz or even 3 GHz without additional calibration.

100% Software-Upgradeable

Buy as needed. Shipping instruments for feature upgrades is inconvenient for rack-integrated measurement setups. The R&S®FPC1000 can be upgraded by simply entering a software keycode. All options are in place and can be enabled by the user. Upgrade effortlessly and conveniently.

No Downtime – Instant Option Availability

Buy when needed. The unique Rohde & Schwarz upgrade path eliminates the need for additional upgrade calibration. Avoid delays and downtime with instant access to required functionality.

Unexpected RF Performance

Low Noise Floor

High sensitivity is crucial in many applications, such as measuring extremely weak signals. The R&S®FPC1000 provides a low noise floor of –150 dBm (typ.). Adding the optional R&S®FPC1000-B22 preamplifier increases sensitivity even further down to –165 dBm (typ.).

High Max. Input Power

Measure 10 times more power with the R&S®FPC1000. Most entry-level spectrum analyzers can measure up to +20 dBm (100 mW). The R&S®FPC1000 can measure high power signals of up to +30 dBm (1 W). The combination of low noise floor and high max. input power provides an exceptionally wide measurement dynamic range.

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High Resolution

160% Higher Display Resolution

The WXGA panel (1366 × 768 pixel) exceeds the VGA resolution (640 × 480 pixel) standard among entry-level spectrum analyzers by 160%. Inspect measured signals in unprecedented clarity and detail.

26% Larger Display

The R&S®FPC1000 has the largest display of any entry-level spectrum analyzer. The 10.1" panel is 26% larger than other entry-class spectrum analyzers (8"). The high display resolution and large screen create an extraordinary user experience.

1 Hz Resolution Bandwidth

The quality of RF measurements depends on suitable resolution bandwidth settings. Finer resolution bandwidth means more spectral details. The R&S®FPC1000 is the only entry-level spectrum analyzer with resolution bandwidth settings down to 1 Hz. Identify RF signal details with class-unprecedented measurement frequency resolution.

The high dynamic range of the R&S®FPC1000 fully utilizes the 10.1" WXGA display.

Easy Virtual Control

First Wi-Fi-enabled Spectrum Analyzer in its Class

Eliminate network cables with integrated wireless technology. The R&S®FPC1000 is Wi-Fi enabled (in certain regions) and connects to Wi-Fi access points. This removes the need for Ethernet cables, plugs, hubs, and installation.

Innovative Control – Fast and Easy with iOS/Android/PC Software

Simple and intuitive controls are transforming industry standards. The R&S®FPC1000 connects to R&S®InstrumentView as well as R&S®MobileView remote control platforms via USB 2.0, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi. R&S®InstrumentView (PC software) and R&S®MobileView (iOS/Android app) are powerful all-in-one remote control applications bundled with the R&S®FPC1000. Take control, read measurements, save and transfer settings quickly and easily from any network location.

R&S®InstrumentView Remote Control Software

Lab Feature in R&S®InstrumentView – Set Up a Wireless Remote Lab in Minutes

R&S®InstrumentView supports a specific feature called Lab, which helps instructors use the R&S®FPC1000 Wi-Fi capabilities to set up a wireless student lab in minutes. Instructors can then use the R&S®InstrumentView Lab feature to simultaneously control, synchronize, and view multiple instruments. This feature is beneficial for any scenario requiring remote monitoring of multiple instruments.

Virtual Classroom Concept – Flexible Deployment of Classrooms Anywhere, Anytime

In a globalized world, education breaks geographic barriers. The R&S®FPC1000's wireless connectivity combined with the R&S®InstrumentView Lab feature makes it a unique tool for virtual classrooms and location-independent teaching. Students can connect to a common network domain from anywhere to participate in lab classes or online assessments. Experience teaching anywhere, anytime.

R&S®InstrumentView and R&S®MobileView Features

R&S®InstrumentView R&S®MobileView

• Easy and fast exchange of screenshots and configurations between the instrument and a PC
• - Remote control of the instrument from any network location
• Easy creation of test reports in PDF, HTML, and RTF formats
• - Easy processing of measurement results
• Editing measurement results by displaying/hiding/shifting markers and limit lines, etc
• - PC (MS Windows) compatible
• - iOS/Android compatible
• iOS/Android compatible

Software Applications and Features

Receiver Mode

The R&S®FPC1000 offers the R&S®FPC-K43 receiver mode for EMI debugging on circuit boards, integrated circuits, cable shielding, and more. The R&S®FPC-B22 preamplifier compensates for coupling loss of probes and increases sensitivity to detect small interfering signals.

R&S®FPC1000 Spectrum Analyzer with the R&S®HZ-15 Probe Set and DUT

Modulation Analysis

The R&S®FPC-K7 converts the R&S®FPC1000 into a modulation analyzer for measuring modulation quality of amplitude or frequency-modulated signals. The analog demodulation display shows the waveform and a summary of measurement parameters such as carrier power, carrier offset, modulation index (depth) for AM signals, frequency deviation for FM signals, SINAD (Signal-to-Noise and Distortion), THD (Total Harmonic Distortion), etc. The modulation summary display provides user-definable limits for each measurement. Demodulated audio is supported via the built-in speaker or the headphone jack.

Basic digital modulation formats, such as near-field communications, are used in many applications. The R&S®FPC1000 supports both ASK and FSK analysis. The digital modulation display includes trace, eye diagram, modulation error, and symbol analysis. The FPC-K7 software option allows verification of basic modulated signal quality.

Advanced Measurements

The R&S®FPC-K55 adds functions for measuring channel power, occupied bandwidth, adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR), spectral emission mask (SEM), spurious emissions, and third-order intercept (TOI). It provides a spectrogram display for easy insight into spectrum occupancy and time-varying signals. Experience advanced measurements on an entry-level instrument.

Rohde & Schwarz FPC1000 Specifications

Frequency range R&S®FPC1000 5 kHz to 1 GHz with R&S®FPC-B2 option, 5 kHz to 2 GHz with R&S®FPC-B3 option, 5 kHz to 3 GHz
Frequency resolution 1 Hz
...
Temperature drift 0 °C to +30 °C
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Input attenuator RF input only 0 dB to 40 dB in 5 dB steps
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