How to Classify RF Signals in the Field

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Handheld Analyzer
+ Handheld Analyzer
Handheld Analyzer
+ Handheld Analyzer

Identifying and Characterizing Unknown and Known Emitters

Classifying signals in dynamic spectrum environments requires identifying waveform characteristics, modulation types, and signal behavior across varying power levels and bandwidths. Accurate signal classification relies on capturing signal presence over time, observing how it behaves in both the frequency and time domains, and distinguishing intentional communications from unintentional interference or noise. This involves collecting in-phase and quadrature (IQ) data, analyzing modulation features, and comparing observed patterns to known signal profiles. Spectrum monitoring personnel must determine not only what signal is present, but why it is present, and whether its source is authorized, interfering, or malicious.

Identifying and characterizing signal types across shared and congested spectrum environments requires a test system capable of continuous monitoring, IQ data capture, geolocation tagging, and post-event analysis. The test system typically integrates a spectrum analyzer, a directional or omni antenna system, and spectrum monitoring or classification software that applies pattern recognition, feature extraction, demodulation, and decision logic to label signals by category. The classification test system must support long-duration monitoring sessions, synchronized measurement logging, and the ability to process both narrowband and wideband signals under real-world conditions. Advanced analysis algorithms enable accurate separation of overlapping emitters and differentiation of legitimate transmissions from interference or anomalies.

Signal Classification Solution

Classifying authorized, unauthorized, and interfering signals in the field requires portable test sites paired with centralized remote monitoring, IQ capture, and automated signal classification. Keysight FieldFox handheld analyzers combined with Keysight Spectrum Management Software (KSMS) provide a unified solution for detecting, capturing, analyzing, and classifying RF signals. FieldFox can operate as both a local handheld analyzer and a deployed monitoring node, while KSMS enables centralized control, IQ recording, classification workflows, and geolocation display. Together, they support real-time spectrogram viewing, modulation recognition, emitter logging, and wideband IQ streaming up to 120 MHz for detailed signal analysis. This solution simplifies field classification tasks while scaling seamlessly across multi-site deployments.
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