Vector Signal Analysis Basics
Application Notes
Vector Signal Analysis
This application note serves as a primer on vector signal analysis which, going forward, will be referred to as VSA. This section discusses VSA measurement concepts and theory of operation; the second section discusses vectormodulation analysis and, specifically, digital-modulation analysis.
Analog, swept-tuned spectrum analyzers use superheterodyne technology to cover wide frequency ranges; from audio, through microwave, to millimeter frequencies. Fast Fourier transform (FFT) analyzers use digital signal processing (DSP) to provide high-resolution spectrum and network analysis. Today’s wide-bandwidth, vector-modulated (also called complex or digitally modulated), time-varying signals benefit greatly from the capabilities of FFT analysis and other DSP techniques. VSA provides fast, high-resolution spectrum measurements, demodulation, and advanced time-domain analysis. VSA is especially useful for characterizing complex signals such as burst, transient, or modulated signals used in communications, video, broadcast, radar, and software-defined radio applications.