40MHz capture bandwidth at a price under $10,000
New equipment with a frequency range of up to 7.5GHz

Tektronix has expanded its innovative USB-based real-time spectrum analyzer family with four new high-performance models targeting product design, spectrum management, and wireless transmitter installation and maintenance applications.
The new RSA500 and RSA600 series analyzers boast a frequency range from 9 kHz to 7.5 GHz, an acquisition bandwidth of 40 MHz, and a maximum input measurement dynamic range of up to +30 dBm at an average noise level of -161 dBm/Hz.

The new USB-based spectrum analyzers adopt the same design principles as the 6.2GHz RSA306 USB-based real-time spectrum analyzer, which was a huge success last year, while providing superior instrument performance in two ultra-compact, cost-effective packages.

These new models revolutionize the performance of USB-based spectrum analyzer equipment to a new class, while adding a variety of features to both line-operation laboratory packages and rugged battery-powered packages with tablet PC options. Both the RSA500 and RSA600 are equipped with an optional tracking generator with an integrated internal bridge for testing base devices, cables, and antennas.

Compared to conventional spectrum analyzers, Tektronix's USB-based equipment boasts an excellent price-to-performance ratio. Compared to comparable existing standalone equipment, the price level is only 60%.

In addition, it can operate on desktop PCs, laptops, or tablets using a standard USB 3.0 connection, and the updated version of the fully functional SignalVu-PC software product is available at no additional cost, allowing for 17 measurements, real-time DPX signal processing, and the use of additional modules for more accurate and diverse applications.

Jim McGillivary, General Manager of RF and Component Solutions at Tektronix, explains, “Tektronix’s USB-based spectrum analyzers offer a wide range of features at a very affordable price compared to existing equipment. Innovative technology has enabled software-based knobs, operating modes, and screen switching, as well as package miniaturization. As demonstrated by the RSA306, USB-based equipment is rapidly becoming the mainstream choice for spectrum analyzer users seeking devices that offer performance and versatility beyond expectations in a more compact form factor. With lower prices, engineers and technicians can now access the latest equipment more easily.”

A robust tool for spectrum management

The RSA500 series portable spectrum analyzer delivers laboratory-level performance in the field, enabling fast and economical spectrum management, interference detection, and network troubleshooting. This series includes the 3GHz RSA503A and 7.5GHz RSA507A, and these battery-powered devices have received shock and vibration certifications equivalent to MIL-STD 28800 Class 2 and an IP52 water resistance rating.

Additional features include the ability to utilize it in field applications, such as GPS receivers with fixed frequency accuracy of ±0.025 ppm and tracking generators for cable and antenna testing equipped with measurement functions like reflection loss and DTF (Distance to Fault)*. Spectrum managers can use the RSA500 series, a real-time spectrum analyzer, to view even very short-duration signals, enabling rapid identification of problems or interference signals.

Economical RF debug suitable for laboratories

The RSA600 series instruments, including the 3GHz RSA603A and 7.5GHz RSA607A, are designed to be used as wired-powered desktop units while maintaining the performance levels of portable units. These analyzers can handle a variety of design applications, including testing of Internet of Things (IoT) modules and components using the SignalVu-PC measurement package; all testing can be measured via 802.11a Bluetooth LE and Bluetooth EDR - WLAN standards, and gain and loss testing capabilities enable rapid system integration.

Signal Vu-PC, used with the new spectrum analyzer, has been updated with a user interface featuring new options and functions. Through these new options, SignalVu-PC offers expanded support for signal classification, channel discovery, and mapping. Additionally, floating licenses are supported alongside fixed node licenses, allowing users greater flexibility in widely distributing the software and USB spectrum analyzer. Recording and playback functions for long signals are also provided.

Engineers who need to programmatically access the equipment can choose the SignalVu-PC programming interface or use the built-in API (Application Programming Interface) that provides a variety of commands and measurement sets. Additionally, when using recommended PC hardware, the processing capabilities of the SignalVu-PC are approximately 1,000 times faster than spectrum analyzers from other major vendors.