Handheld radio test set becomes spectrum analyser

Spectrum analyser option allows users to see the signal they are receiving instead of just the frequency

Aeroflex has released a new RF spectrum analyser option for the 3500 handheld 1GHz radio test set. The spectrum analyser option now allows users to see the signal they are receiving instead of just the frequency. In addition, the 3500 will have P25 parametric test capabilities by summer 2008, making it even more versatile.
Using an advanced fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm, the 3500 spectrum analyser option provides an almost instantaneous display of the RF frequency spectrum.

The 3500 has the ability to measure signal levels down to -136dBm, providing advanced signal analysis in a lightweight platform, weighing less than 4kg.

Operation of the 3500 spectrum analyser includes span ranges of 10kHz to 5MHz and an effective resolution bandwidth as small as 19Hz.
Marker functions are available for the user to measure power in a specified bandwidth.

Based on a rugged design that has been approved by the US military, the 3500 offers a wide range of RF test and analysis tools.

Features such as broadband power meter, frequency meter, deviation and modulation index, Signal to noise and distortion measurements set the 3500 apart from other portable RF test equipment.

'The 3500 is in a class of its own', says Lyndon Zielke, Senior Marketing Engineer, Aeroflex Test Solutions.

'The 3500 Series is targeted to perform, quick, accurate tests for verification of radio performance and cable/antenna integrity in a variety of vehicles and platforms'.

'It also provides fast, quick, over-the-air testing of radio transceivers'.

'The 3500's flexible platform gives us the ability to add new features quickly such as the spectrum analyser and P25 tests'.

Aeroflex will equip the 3500 with P25 parametric tests, with initial availability in summer 2008.

'With the upcoming release of P25 test features, 3500 owners can take their unit to remote sites and perform complex digital modulation analysis, as well as standard analogue measurements', says Zielke.

'The 3500 is now the leading portable test set for the land mobile radio market'.

P25 tests will include C4FM modulation fidelity, frequency error, power and deviation measurements.

The 3500 will also generate both the 1011 and 0.153 bit pattern for performing digital receiver sensitivity tests.