| Portable spectrum analyzer runs Windows CE |
Jul. 01, 2008
 Tektronix has announced a handheld real-time spectrum analyzer running Windows CE. The SA2600 targets everything from "small radio repair depots to spectral interference management in the field," with integrated GPS, a 10-inch touchscreen, a 10kHz-6.2GHz input range, and -153dBm DANL (displayed average noise level), says Tektronix.
(Click here for a larger view of Tektronix's SA2600)
Touted as the "ideal tool for surveying the RF spectrum," the SA2600 is said to offer "100 percent probability of intercept for signals of 500 microseconds or greater." Its Live RF spectrum processing engine provides 2,500 spectrum updates per second, mapping the results onto the device's display, the company says.
The SA2600 quickly logs signals that are weak, bursty, hopping, time-multiplexed, or intentionally random, says Tektronix. A FFT (fast fourier transform)-based spectrum analysis permits discerning the true shape of any signal, even when it is bursty. Signals can be stored as a reference, from which the device's trace math feature can quickly identify any deviation, the company adds.
The Tektronix SA2600 features a graphical signal strength meter
Once a signal of interest is identified, the SA2600 provides various "field-proven" signal-hunting tools to help identify it, Tektronix says. For example, a signal-strength meter provides both a graphical display, as seen above, and audible tones that vary in pitch as a function of received power. For harder-to-find signals -- such as those influenced by multipath, fading, or low signal strength -- the unit's mapping capabilities can be brought to bear, says Tektronix.
Operators can tap on an onscreen map to begin recording signal information
The SA2600 includes a built-in GPS receiver that can be used to record signal position and time data as the instrument is moved. Using the "unique tap-and-walk-and-tap interface," operators can tap on an onscreen map (above) to begin recording data, then tape it again when they are done. The SA2600 then displays recorded measurements, equally spaced between the beginning and end points, says Tektronix.
Housed in a magnesium-alloy case, the SA2600 has a BNC connector for a range of optional beam and whip antennas. It is said to be designed for harsh field conditions, and to withstand a variety of drops and mistreatment. Dual hot-swappable batteries provide for up to five hours of continuous spectral analysis, according to the company.
The many features and specifications cited by Tektronix for the SA2600 include:- Processor -- n/a
- Memory -- n/a
- Operating system -- Windows CE (version not specified)
- Display -- 10.4-inch VGA touchscreen display
- RF Input Range -- 10kHz – 6.2GHz
- Maximum operating input level -- +20dBm peak envelope power
- Internal timebase accuracy -- ~ 0.5PPM from 0 to 50 deg. C, ~ 1.0PPM aging/year
- Spectral purity (DANL, preamp on) -- –153 dBm, 10MHz to 2GHz, 10Hz RBW
- Spectral display amplitude -- +20dBm to –160dBm
- Spectral processing rate -- 2,500 per second (span independent)
- Battery life, with two batteries -- 5 hours continuous spectrum mode (actual life can be higher)
- Operating temperature -- 0 to 50 deg. C
- Dimensions -- 13 x 10 x 4.8 inches
- Weight -- 12.27 pounds
Tektronix did not provide pricing or availability information, but the SA2600 appears to be available now.
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