Thomas C. Hill

Real-time spectrum analysis reveals time domain characteristics of frequency domain signals

Many modern RF signals exhibit rapid time-variations, or transient interference. The real-time spectrum analyzer was developed to discover, trigger on, capture, and analyze such signals. This paper will discuss the differences between traditional and real-time spectrum analysis. The theory behind analysis without gaps will be presented and the types of signals revealed by an RTSA will be shown.

A frequency conversion scheme for an advanced portable microwave spectrum analyzer

A block diagram with an unusually high-frequency IF system, resulting in a high-performance spectrum analyzer, is described. The phase noise and short-term frequency stability are not seriously degraded, and the sensitivity is enhanced at high center frequencies. This technique also has applications in modern receivers. Although advanced technology has been applied to all the noted characteristics of spectrum analyzers, the greatest gain has been made with the high local oscillator (LO) frequency. This has been accomplished without degrading overall phase noise or short-term frequency stability.<<ETX>>