How to Make Infield RF Measurements Easier, Faster and More Precise using a Handheld Spectrum Analyzer

1. Recognizing the Optimal Solution
2. Redefining Infield RF Measurements
3. Conclusion
4. Related links for more information

In the field, RF issues like faulty cables, connectors, antennas, and other components or signal interference, can impact the successful installation and maintenance of an RF system, resulting in degraded network performance or, in extreme cases, loss of revenue. Testing RF issues is therefore mandatory. Traditionally, this testing has been performed using big, heavy bench instruments, which field engineers and technicians have to carry into the field--often times into tough or even extreme environments (e.g., the top of a transmission tower). Once in the field, the instruments have to be set up to make the correct measurements, a process that can take a substantial amount of time. In fact, sometimes field engineers and technicians spend more time pushing instrument set-up buttons then they do actually making measurements, compromising their speed, productivity and flexibility. Addressing this RF measurement challenge requires a handheld solution that is fast, efficient, accurate, and easy to use.

A handheld spectrum analyzer offers the ideal solution to this dilemma, providing the performance and functionality necessary for field engineers and technicians to make infield measurements of RF and microwave equipment (e.g., transmitter and component test, receiving path signal monitoring and antenna tuning) and RF environments (e.g., band clearance, signal coverage and interface hunting). Such measurements are critical for field engineers and technicians installing RF systems, conducting on-site maintenance, troubleshooting potential problems, monitoring spectrum and investigating interference issues.

The most optimal handheld spectrum analyzer must offer a combination of durability, ease-of-use, a range of user customization capabilities, ergonomic features, and the ability to make more precise measurements. To ensure durability in harsh field environments, the handheld must be rugged. That means it must be designed with no fans, and a ruggedized chassis and interface, which can tolerate environment changes without compromising measurement integrity.

Greater ease-of-use speaks directly to the field engineer or technician's need to increase efficiency by eliminating complicated instrument setups and through access to both built-in and optional capabilities that greatly extend the instrument's use. Usability features like a tool's user interface, ergonomic correctness, the "viewability" of its display, and its ability to be customized or personalized are keys ways to achieve this goal.

The new Agilent N9342C handheld spectrum analyzer (HSA) from Agilent Technologies offers the ease-of-use, flexibility, performance, and accuracy required for infield measurements of RF and microwave equipment and RF environments (Figure 1). Providing fast and accurate measurement from 100 kHz to 7 GHz (tunable to 9 kHz), the N9342C HSA features built-in 7 GHz tracking, a built-in GPS receiver and antenna that provides precise location information, and a spectrum monitor with spectrogram record and playback functionality. A built-in power connector for an Agilent active RF probe ensures precise in-circuit measurements, a capability traditionally available only on the bench. An optional 8-GHz directional antenna enables field engineers and technicians to monitor spectrum and hunt for interference. Moreover, when used with an optional Agilent USB power sensor, the N9342C HSA becomes a high-accuracy power meter than can be used to make transmitter power measurements.

The N9342C HSA provides a set of standard, one-button measurements like adjacent channel power ratio (ACPR), occupied bandwidth (OBW) and channel power that help characterize signal quality. Its outstanding performance not only enables fast and accurate measurements, but also ensures first-time measurement accuracy. It is characterized by ±0.6 dB typical amplitude accuracy, 10 dBm TOI, a DANL of -164 dBm/Hz (typical), and a phase noise of -86 dBc/Hz at 30 kHz offset or -117 dBc/Hz at a 1 MHz offset. This performance, coupled with its ease-of-use, make the N9342C HSA suitable for use in a variety of markets, including aerospace/defense, microwave and satellite communication, wireless communication and broadcasting, spectrum regulation, and general-purpose spectrum analysis.

The key capabilities which make the N9342C HSA an optimal solution for making infield RF measurements include:

• Ergonomic Features
  The N9342C HSA features an optional ergonomic backpack and soft case that ensures comfort and provides true “hands-free” operation (Figure 2). An industry first, this unique backpack and soft case design allows users to carry the instrument in one of three ways: on the back, wearing both the soft case and backpack, or wearing the soft case only.

• Faster, more Precise Measurements
  Offering best-in-class RFperformance and rich measure­ment personalities, the N9342C HSA captures accurate measurements the first time, every time. With the industry’s fastest sweep time it can even capture intermittent signals. A spectrum monitor that can be set up in minutes provides users with a dual view of both spectrum and spectrogram for faster identification of RF issues (Figure 3).

Further speeding the measurement process, a unique Task Planner capability automates routine measurement tasks (Figure 4). Doing so, cuts test setup time by 95 percent and allows users to boost their work efficiency. With this capability, users simply create a pre-defined task planner file of up to 20 tasks using free N9342C HSA PC software. Next, the file is transferred to the N9342C, which executes the measurements sequentially and automatically. Measurement results are then logged and a corresponding measurement report, with screenshot, generated.

• Ease-of-use
  The N9342C HSA delivers a range of features designed to increase ease-of-use and in the process enhance user productivity in the field. Its usability features include: automatic LCD brightness, keypad backlight control and extra large fonts that allow the instrument’s screen to be easily viewed day or night; a set of standard, one-button measurements; and an optimized keypad design that provides access to most measurement functions with just two button pushes. For added flexibility, the N9342C HSA can be remotely controlled via a USB/LAN connection and the N9342C HSA’s free PC software. A dedicated user key and customizable frequency channel table, amplitude correction and limit allow the user to personalize the instrument setup; ensuring measurements can be performed much more quickly.

• Durability and Security
  A rugged, fanless design makes the N9342C HSA well suited for tough field environments, while a security erase feature helps secure data.

Given the challenges and obstacles associated with making measurements for installation, maintenance and surveillance of RF systems in the field, the need for a handheld variant to the traditional benchtop spectrum analyzer is all the more compelling. Agilent's N9342C HSA offers the exceptional ease-of-use, accuracy and performance required to address the challenges associated with making infield RF measurements. It's these capabilities that enable it to deliver increased productivity and faster, more effective testing of RF and microwave equipment and RF environments. By making field testing easier then ever before and bringing RF field efficiency to a new level, the N9342C HSA is quickly becoming an essential tool for today's field engineer and technicians.

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE:A) is the world's premier measurement company and a technology leader in communications, electronics, life sciences and chemical analysis. The company's 19,000 employees serve customers in more than 110 countries. Agilent had net revenues of $5.4 billion in fiscal 2007. Information about Agilent is available on the Web at www.agilent.com.