Choosing an Affordable Spectrum Analyzer

Choosing an Affordable Spectrum Analyzer

Digital circuitry can produce a wide range of harmonic frequencies, and spectrum analyzers can display this RF frequency spectrum (power or voltage) against frequency. They are essential for EMC troubleshooting, but traditionally, these instruments have been quite expensive. A decent lab-quality, benchtop portable spectrum analyzer might cost between $10,000 to $20,000, and used ones can range from $1,000 to $5,000. However, the weight and initial investment of these instruments can be considerable.

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Fortunately, many manufacturers now offer affordable, quality spectrum analyzers that are perfectly sufficient for troubleshooting and pre-compliance work. Here are a few options to consider:

Choosing a Spectrum Analyzer

Before purchasing a spectrum analyzer, consider the following factors: cost, frequency range, allowable frequency span, form factor, and acquisition type. These characteristics will help you choose the right instrument for your needs.

Cost

The cost of spectrum analyzers can range from $50 to $5,000. Decent benchtop analyzers can be found for around $2,000, while portable models range from $100 to $2,500, depending on their quality and features.

Frequency Range

Most analyzers cover up to 1 GHz, which is adequate for general troubleshooting. Some EMC tests require measuring down to 10 kHz (for military/aerospace) or 150 kHz (for commercial/industrial sectors). Depending on your needs, you might require an upper frequency range extending to 6 GHz (commercial/industrial) or 18 GHz (military/aerospace).

Allowable Frequency Span

While most commercial spectrum analyzers handle frequency spans well, lower-cost software-defined radios (SDRs) might be limited in the frequencies they can display, which could pose troubleshooting challenges.

Form Factor

Benchtop units are typically more useful for troubleshooting, but recent affordable models have smaller footprints. For field use, consider portable analyzers. USB-controlled analyzers dependent on a PC laptop for display and control are another option.

Acquisition Type

There are two types of acquisition: swept and real-time. Swept analyzers operate by "sweeping" the frequency span and measuring data in intervals, potentially missing intermittent signals. Real-time analyzers capture and display data continuously, making them suitable for detecting transient RF events.

Budget/Hobby Analyzers

The following analyzers are ideal for hobbyists rather than serious EMC troubleshooting but can display both broadband and narrowband harmonic energy. These tools are sufficient for basic emission checks.

RF Explorer

For those with severe budget constraints, the RF Explorer is a viable option at $130. It covers a frequency range from 240 to 960 MHz, with an optional $60 Wi-Fi module available. Despite its limited frequency range and sensitivity of -90 dBm, it’s useful for higher harmonic troubleshooting. It’s available from Seeed Studio, Shenzhen, China.

The AirSpy

This budget-friendly SDR-based analyzer costs $199 and can tune from 24 MHz to 1.8 GHz with a sensitivity down to -130 dBm. It can be enhanced with the Spyverter module ($59) to cover DC to 60 MHz. The AirSpy is USB-controlled and processes data via a PC running Windows. Notably, it offers a "waterfall" display, useful for tracking intermittent emissions.

Tiny Spectrum Analyzer (TinySA)

For under $100, the TinySA is a popular choice among hobbyists. It features dual input ranges (0.1MHz to 350MHz and 240MHz to 960MHz) and serves as both a spectrum analyzer and signal generator. It includes calibrated filters, a color display, and USB connectivity. While it has limitations like internal phase noise and bandwidth constraints, it’s suitable for general emissions troubleshooting.

Professional Portable Analyzers

For more serious EMC work, consider professional portable analyzers such as the AIM-TTi PSA2702T. This handheld device covers 1 MHz to 2.7 GHz, has three resolution bandwidths, and costs around $1,695. It’s ideal for fieldwork and can store settings and screen captures. Despite lacking some standard EMI bandwidths, it’s useful for initial troubleshooting before compliance testing.

AIM-TTi PSA6005

This 6 GHz model offers enhanced specifications and more resolution bandwidths (300 Hz to 10 MHz). It includes multiple amplitude and frequency detectors, and like the PSA2702T, it allows detailed configuration and saves setups. It sells for a higher price but offers significant capabilities for general troubleshooting.

Rohde & Schwarz FPH Spectrum Rider

At a base price of $5,280, the FPH Spectrum Rider offers lab-quality specifications in a portable format. It tunes from 5 kHz to 2 GHz (with 3 or 4 GHz options) and includes a preamplifier for finer accuracy. Weighing 5.5 pounds and featuring a user-friendly layout, it's best suited for field use.

Bench Top Analyzers

For more advanced troubleshooting, consider bench top analyzers like the Rigol DSA815TG and the Siglent SSA3000X-series. These units are accurate enough for pre-compliance testing and offer several high-end functionalities vital for serious EMC troubleshooting.

Rigol DSA815TG

This popular analyzer costs around $1,295 and covers 9 kHz to 1.5 GHz. Options include a $200 tracking generator and a $600 EMI option for quasi-peak detection. It features an intuitive interface and is suitable for basic to intermediate EMI troubleshooting.

Siglent Technologies SSA3000X-Series

Siglent offers spectrum analyzers with a base range up to 2.1 GHz, extendable to 3.2 GHz, with more recent models available. These analyzers provide improved specifications over their counterparts and offer comprehensive pre-compliance testing capabilities via free Windows software.

Swept Spectrum Analyzer Summary

For serious EMC troubleshooting on a budget, more advanced analyzers are recommended over hobbyist models for accuracy and feature sets. The AIM-TTi PSA2702T and Rohde & Schwarz Spectrum Rider are top picks for field use. For bench top applications, Rigol and Siglent analyzers provide comprehensive tools for effective troubleshooting and compliance testing.

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