The Tektronix RSA306 portable spectrum analyzer sets a new price – performance threshold. Priced at $3,490, the handheld unit covers 9 kHz to 6.2 GHz with 40 MHz of real time bandwidth, measures signals from -160 to +20 dBm, weighs just 1.2 lbs and is powered by a USB 3.0 connection to a laptop or desktop PC that performs the signal analysis.
The PC hosts Tektronix SignalVu-PCsoftware that provides a complete suite of spectrum analyzer features, including 17 different measurements. The basic SignalVu-PC package is included at no additional charge; add-on options include mapping and various signal analyzers: vector, WLAN, P25, pulse and audio. An open API allows custom development of Windows-based interfaces using MATLAB or Python, to manipulate the raw data coming from the instrument. To ensure 100 percent probability of intercepting signals, the PC must have a fourth generation Intel i7 processor with at least 8 GB of RAM and running 64 bit Windows 7 or 8.
The size of the RSA306 is 5" × 7.5" × 1.2". A Type N connector for the RF input is located at one end, adjacent to inputs for a 10 MHz reference signal and external trigger as well as the USB 3.0 connection. The unit is ruggedized and meets Mil-Std 28800 Class 2 specifications.
Tektronix states the RSA306 offers comparable to superior sensitivity, accuracy and dynamic range at a fraction of the cost of a conventional spectrum analyzer. The company designed the RSA306 for budget-conscious and portable applications, including interference hunting, mobile radio network installation and maintenance, university lab classes and research and development.
Tektronix Inc.
Beaverton, Ore.
www.tek.com/spectrum-analyzer/rsa306.