5 types of most common electromagnetic wave spectrum analyzers

Explore the 5 most common types of electromagnetic wave spectrum analyzers: Swept-Tuned, VSA, RTSA, Audio, and Optical.

1. Spectrum Analyzer with Swept-Tuned

A Swept-Tuned Spectrum Analyzer, often referred to as a superheterodyne receiver, sweeps the frequency spectrum of the input signal through a narrowband filter. This process is done in a successive manner, allowing it to detect and display signal amplitudes at different frequencies.

2. Vector Signal Analyzer (VSA)

The Vector Signal Analyzer is designed to analyze complex modulated signals, such as digital radio frequency (RF) signals. Unlike the swept-tuned spectrum analyzer, a VSA can measure both the magnitude and phase of the input signal, providing a more comprehensive view of the signal’s behavior.

3. Real-Time Spectrum Analyzer (RTSA)

A Real-Time Spectrum Analyzer offers the advantage of capturing transient or time-varying signals. It achieves this by performing Fourier transforms on overlapping windows of time samples, thus providing a continuous spectrum display and avoiding ‘blind time’ inherent in swept-tuned analyzers.

4. Audio Spectrum Analyzer

The Audio Spectrum Analyzer is a tool specifically designed for audio signals. It analyses the frequency spectrum of audio signals and displays them in a graphical manner, which can be beneficial for sound engineers and music producers.

5. Optical Spectrum Analyzer

An Optical Spectrum Analyzer is used for measuring the power and wavelength distribution of optical spectra, typically in fiber-optic communication systems. It works in a similar way to a RF spectrum analyzer, but operates over optical frequencies.

In summary, the choice of spectrum analyzer highly depends on the specific use case and the nature of the signal being analyzed. Each type has unique features that make it well-suited for certain applications.

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