The PSA-T series spectrum analyzers represent an entirely new type of instrument.
They utilize the power of a handheld computer to provide a level of performance that was previously impossible for an instrument of this small size and low cost.
The PSA2701T offers every engineer the opportunity to own a spectrum analyzer regardless of their particular speciality.
TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has extended their PSA-T series of low-cost highly portable RF spectrum analyzers with the launch of the PSA2701T.
The new model has a frequency range of 1MHz to 2700MHz. As well as being lower cost, it is considerably smaller, lighter, and lower power than other RF spectrum analyzers currently available. Despite this, it offers a high resolution (480 x 320 pixel) backlit colour TFT display.
The PSA2701T offers resolution bandwidths of 1MHz, 280kHz or 15kHz, and a typical best noise floor of "96dBm. Sweep modes include continuous, single, peak hold and average (up to 256 sweeps). Sweep parameters can be set in terms of centre plus span or start plus stop to 1 kHz resolution. A zero span mode with AM or FM demodulation is also provided.
Dual markers are incorporated with simultaneous readout of absolute amplitude and frequency plus difference values. Markers can be scrolled manually, or set to automatically find and track peaks. Amplitude limit lines can be created and stored, and two limit lines can be displayed simultaneously. Amplitude measurement can be in dBm or dBµV.
A reference trace can be displayed simultaneously with live trace, clearly differentiated by color. The reference trace is automatically shifted and scaled to match the current sweep parameters when they are changed.
Any number of waveforms and settings can be stored to permanent memory using an SD flash memory card. Bitmap images of the whole screen can also be stored for viewing or printing.
Low power consumption offers more than four hours of continuous operation from a charge. The analyzer can also be set to turn off automatically after a user defined delay from the last key press, extending battery life further.
The PSA2701T offers many additional features from its integrated Palm T|X handheld computer. These include word processing and spreadsheets (compatible with Microsoft Word and Excel), contacts and appointments diary, multi-function calculator, picture viewing, audio and video players, plus web and email access via WiFi and Bluetooth.
Until now, the PSA-T series spectrum analyzers have been limited to 1.3GHz maximum. The new PSA2701T covers almost the full UHF band including the 1.5GHz to 1.7GHz bands used for mobile satellite links and GPS, the 1.7GHz to 1.9GHz bands used for PCN/GSM and DECT and the 2.4GHz to 2.5GHz ISM band used for Wireless LAN, Bluetooth, microwave RFID as well as other specialist communication bands.
The PSA2701T weighs less than 1.1 lbs and measures 6.7 x 3.8 x 1.85 inches. The weight and dimensions make it a true handheld instrument, unlike many competitive products that weigh more than 4.4 lbs.
