Signal Analyzer Basics
  • Courses
  • 9 items

In this course, learn the fundamentals of frequency-domain measurements using spectrum and signal analyzers. Whether you're troubleshooting a circuit or characterizing a signal, this course will equip you with the essential tools and techniques used in RF measurements.

 

Learn:

  • What RF problems are addressed using a spectrum analyzer 

  • Key differences between a spectrum analyzer and an oscilloscope

  • How to measure RF noise using a spectrum analyzer

Lessons
Lesson 1 - Spectrum Analyzer vs. Signal Analyzer Measurements

Lesson 1 - Spectrum Analyzer vs. Signal Analyzer Measurements

Explore the types of measurements you can perform including frequency, amplitude, width, phase, and spurious emissions. Understand the capabilities and limitations of different analyzers and how to choose the right one for your task.

Lesson 2 - Time Domain vs. Frequency Domain

Lesson 2 - Time Domain vs. Frequency Domain

Learn how the same signal appears from the time and frequency domain perspectives. The time domain represents a signal’s time variation, while the frequency domain represents the signal’s frequency components. You’ll also discover how the Fourier transform bridges the gap between these two perspectives.

Lesson 3 - Understanding Spectrum and Spurious Emissions

Lesson 3 - Understanding Spectrum and Spurious Emissions

Spectrum is the distribution of signal power across a range of frequencies, while spurious emissions are unwanted signals present in a signal's spectrum. Spectrum analyzers are used to measure spectrum and spurious emissions, helping you detect interference that can affect system performance.

Lesson 4 - Boosting Dynamic Range to See Low Level Signals

Lesson 4 - Boosting Dynamic Range to See Low Level Signals

Dynamic range is the difference between the smallest and largest signals that can be measured by a spectrum analyzer. Learn how to increase the dynamic range by averaging or attenuating the input signal and using a narrow bandwidth.

Lesson 5 - What is Noise Figure and How Do You Measure It?

Lesson 5 - What is Noise Figure and How Do You Measure It?

Noise figure is critical when you’re trying to detect weak signals buried in the noise floor. This lesson explains what it means, why it matters, and how to measure it effectively with a signal analyzer.

Signal Analysis Solutions Catalog

Catalogs

Signal Analysis Solutions Catalog

Explore Keysight's signal analysis solutions, from RF to millimeter-wave, with tools like PathWave VSA that support 75+ signal types across 45+ platforms for 5G, IoT, and radar applications.
Spectrum Analysis Basics

Application Notes

Spectrum Analysis Basics

Discover spectrum analysis basics, including superheterodyne analyzers, digital IF, sensitivity, and dynamic range for accurate frequency-domain measurements.

Optimize Spectrum Analyzer Settings for TOI Measurements

Application Notes

Optimize Spectrum Analyzer Settings for TOI Measurements

This application note shares tips to help optimize common measurements made with a spectrum analyzer.
Methods and Instruments for Phase Noise Measurement

Application Notes

Methods and Instruments for Phase Noise Measurement

This application note delves into various methods for measuring phase noise and explores commonly used instruments.
Related Product
N9020B MXA Signal Analyzer, 10 Hz to 50 GHz

hardware

N9020B MXA Signal Analyzer, 10 Hz to 50 GHz

Quickly adapt to evolving test requirements with the N9020B MXA Signal Analyzer.
Related Use Case
How to Measure Accurate EVM for a DUT in 5G NR Systems

How to Measure Accurate EVM for a DUT in 5G NR Systems

Use a cross-correlated EVM measurement technique to remove analyzer noise