Tektronix RSA5000B real-time spectrum analyzer series up to 26.5 GHz

Brief description of the series

Series of laboratory spectrum analyzers and real-time signals Tektronix RSA5000B belongs to a professional line capable of performing the complex tasks of detecting and analyzing non-stationary and pulsed radio signals, as well as telecom signals of LTE, WLAN, Bluetooth, P25, etc. With the appropriate options installed, the RSA5000B series can capture and analyze up to 3,125,000 spectrograms per second, which provides a 100% probability of detecting even the shortest events and transients with a duration of up to 0.43 µs. This high spectrogram capture rate, combined with up to 160 MHz real-time analysis bandwidth, provides amazing imaging capabilities for complex radio signals.

The Tektronix RSA5000B analyzers combine superior signal processing capabilities with a high-quality RF measurement path that delivers +30 dBm peak signal level, -167 dBm/Hz noise floor, -113 dBc/Hz phase noise (at 1 GHz at 10 kHz) and TOI +17 dBm at 2 GHz. You can download a full description of all the characteristics of this analyzer below on this page in the section Documentation.

All models of the series

The Tektronix RSA5000B series consists of four models, which are presented in this interactive table. To see all the characteristics of certain models, add them to the comparison.

Main features of the series

Frequency: 1 Hz - 3 GHz (RSA5103B model).
Frequency: 1 Hz - 6.2 GHz (RSA5106B model).
Frequency: 1 Hz - 15 GHz (RSA5115B model).
Frequency: 1 Hz - 26.5 GHz (RSA5126B model).
Real-time capture bandwidth: 25 MHz (standard), options: 40, 85, 125 or 165 MHz.
Spectrograms per second: up to 390,000 (standard), up to 3,125,000 (option).
The minimum duration of an event detected with a probability of 100%: up to 0.43 µs.
Amplitude: +30 dBm to -167 dBm. Noise: -167 dBm (with 2 GHz preamp)
20 standard measurements for spectrum analysis and pulse signals.
Work with the spectrum in real time to search for transients and interference.
Comprehensive spectrum analysis with the free Tektronix SignalVu-PC software.
Additional options: modulation analysis (AM, FM, PM, OFDM, etc.), wireless protocol analysis (LTE, WLAN, Bluetooth, P25, etc.), pulse measurements, frequency and phase settling time measurements, phase noise and noise figure measurements, carrying out preliminary EMC tests, etc.
Screen 26.4 cm (resolution 1024 x 768). Interfaces: USB, IEEE-488.2 (GPIB), Ethernet, VGA.
Weight: 29 kg. Dimensions: 282 x 473 x 531 mm. Working temperature: from +5°С to +40°С.

Areas of use:
- search for sources of interference, including non-stationary and ultrashort (up to 0.43 µs);
- development and analysis of the operation of complex communication systems, including with frequency hops;
- development and analysis of the operation of electronic warfare (EW);
- development and tuning of radars, the study of radar pulses;
- basic spectrum analysis both from the radio and with direct connection to the source;
- conducting preliminary tests of equipment on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC);
- scientific research;
- training in universities.

The Tektronix RSA5000B Series combines the best of classic scanning (or swept-tuned) spectrum analyzers, wideband signal analyzers, and high-speed real-time spectrum analyzers.

From the characteristics inherent in classical spectrum analyzers noteworthy: self-noise with preamp on down to -167 dBm/Hz, phase noise at -113 dBc/Hz (at 1 GHz at 10 kHz offset) and 3rd order intercept (TOI) of +17 dBm at 2 GHz. At the same time, the preselector of the RSA5000B analyzers is constantly on, even with an analysis width of 165 MHz, which always ensures the maximum dynamic range in amplitude and the absence of mirror components of other signals in the analyzed frequency band.

The Tektronix RSA5000B analyzers support a full range of classic radio measurements, including: channel power, occupied bandwidth (OBW), adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR), complementary cumulative distribution function (CCDF), AM/ FM / IM, measurement of parasitic components, etc.

From the characteristics inherent in real-time analyzers, it is worth noting the powerful capabilities of detecting and analyzing pulsed signals, transients and various interferences. The RSA5000B series instruments can analyze up to 3,125,000 spectrum samples per second, which guarantees a 100% probability of detecting even short-term events as short as 0.43 µs. This speed is provided by a patented radio signal processing technology called Tektronix DPX.

This photo shows one of the unique features of the DPX feature, namely the ability to start capturing and analyzing radio signals when a given energy density is reached in a selected region of the spectrum. In this example, we see three separate radio signals of different strength and frequency of occurrence. The first signal is in the center of the screen, it is powerful and has a high frequency of occurrence. The second signal (to the left) has the same power and shape, but appears much less often, so we observe a frequency jump of the central signal. The third (hidden) signal is located in the center of the screen, has a much lower amplitude compared to the main signal, differs from it in shape and is in reality completely invisible to a conventional swept-tuned spectrum analyzer.

But thanks to the DPX function of the Tektronix RSA5000B analyzers and the ability to trigger on the energy density in the selected zone of the spectrum, we select the zone of interest to us (the rectangle in the center), set the trigger threshold (in this case, 7.275% of the total power) and turn on the trigger "Trigger On This". As soon as the power in the specified zone exceeds the threshold of 7.275%, the capture, display and analysis of this hidden signal will begin. As a result of the analysis, you can find out its type: interference or a deliberately masked signal.

Standard features of these analyzers can be upgraded with a wide range of options and optional accessories. For a complete list of extension options, see Options and accessories, as well as in the section Documentation.

Need basic real-time analyzer? See model Tektronix RSA306B.
You need a real-time analyzer, but lower class and cheaper? See Aaronia SPECTRAN V5.
Need handheld spectrum analyzer up to 54 GHz? Watch the series Anritsu MS2090A Field Master Pro.
Need ultra-portable analyzer up to 170 GHz? Watch the series Anritsu MS276xA.
Need classical laboratory spectrum analyzer? See model Anritsu MS2850A.
Want to compare all analyzers? See Spectrum analysis main page.

Analysis of complex frequency hopping signals

The Tektronix RSA5000B series of analyzers is ideal for investigating RF signals with rapidly changing parameters, including frequency hops. For example, the figure below shows four graphs of the same 1.5 GHz signal, but in different areas of analysis. The frequency of this signal changes (tunes) about 2000 times per second.

On the right-top graph (Spectrum) we see the classic spectrum of this signal, the M1 marker is set at its peak, the center frequency is 1.5 GHz, and the amplitude is -20.8 dBm. The right-bottom graph (Time Overview) shows the change in the amplitude of this signal over time, in this case the signal amplitude is almost constant. The upper left graph (Frequency vs Time) shows the change in the frequency of the signal over time, the frequency hopping by several megahertz is clearly visible, which occurs several times per millisecond. The left-bottom graph (Spectrogram) shows the change in the amplitudes of all signals in the 40 MHz span around the center frequency of 1.5 GHz, it is clearly visible how the signal frequency is tuned and the presence of a frequency artifact (a pale vertical line to the right of the main signal).

This screenshot shows another example of a variable frequency signal. The analysis center frequency is 2.4466 GHz and the span is 10 MHz. The frequency of presence of signals is represented by color: frequently occurring signals are displayed in shades of red, and infrequently appearing in shades of blue. The photograph shows how the frequency of the main signal (red peak on the left) periodically becomes 3 MHz higher (blue peak on the right). In addition, the photograph clearly shows all the intermediate frequencies and amplitudes that appear in the signal during the tuning process.

Search for ultra-short interference (up to 0.43 µs)

This screenshot of the Tektronix RSA5000B (RSA5100B) analyzer shows a WiFi 802.11g signal with a modulation bandwidth of 20 MHz (about 50 blue peaks highlighted in a blue box). At the same time as the WiFi signal, there is a Bluetooth signal (7 large blue peaks). Since both signals have a non-stationary (burst) structure, they are very difficult to distinguish with a conventional scanning spectrum analyzer, which will only show the maximum power envelope (yellow graph in this screenshot). But because the RSA5000B is a real-time spectrum analyzer, you can see and measure all the details of rapidly changing, non-stationary signals.

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests

The Tektronix RSA5000B analyzers are well suited for testing a variety of equipment for compliance with EMC standards due to their high measurement accuracy and speed. All settings and measurements required for this are included in option 32. This option contains pre-set thresholds for permissible radiation levels in accordance with current standards, such as: EN55011, EN55012, EN55014, EN55015, EN55025, EN55032, etc.

Assembling the bench, setting up instrument parameters and carrying out measurements for electromagnetic compatibility is a complex task that requires a lot of experience and knowledge. To facilitate this process, the Tektronix RSA5000B analyzer software includes a wizard mode that provides a visual overview of all basic test settings, from antenna selection, cables, filters, LISNs, and more, to setting UUT emission limits according to the selected EMC standard.

When spurious signals are detected at certain frequencies that exceed the levels allowed by the EMC standard, you can switch the Tektronix RSA5000B analyzer to real-time analysis mode (DPX function). High-speed DPX analysis will allow you to study in detail the structure of these spurious signals, to understand and quickly eliminate the cause of their occurrence.

Below on this page in the section Documentation can be downloaded Tektronix RSA5000B analyzers user manual. This document contains over 100 pages of detailed descriptions of various Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) tests. In addition to the measurement procedure itself, the document contains a detailed description of the antennas, filters and other additional accessories required for this. It is recommended for acquaintance to all who are engaged in EMC and EMF.

Design

The Tektronix RSA5000B (RSA5100B) spectrum and real-time signal analyzers are made in a classic laboratory case with dimensions of 282 x 473 x 531 mm and a weight of 29 kg. The analyzers are equipped with a high-quality color screen with a diagonal of 26.4 cm and a resolution of 1024 by 768 pixels. All the necessary communication interfaces are located on the rear panel: USB, IEEE-488.2 (GPIB), Ethernet and VGA for connecting an additional monitor. Also on the front panel there are two USB connectors for connecting flash drives or external SSD drives. The analyzers are designed to operate in the temperature range from +5°С to +40°С. The exterior of the case is shown in this photo.

Tektronix RSA5000B Specifications

This figure lists the key technical specifications of the Tektronix RSA5000B Spectrum and Real Time Analyzers. Detailed specifications span 50 pages in a PDF file and can be found below on this page in the section Documentation.

The standard capabilities of these analyzers can be upgraded with a wide range of options and accessories. For a complete list of extension options, see Options and accessories, as well as in the section Documentation.

Tektronix RSA5000B package contents

Options and accessories for Tektronix RSA5000B

The following is a list of key options for Tektronix RSA5000B (RSA5100B) analyzers that enhance the basic capabilities of these instruments. For a complete list of options with a detailed description, see below on this page in the section Documentation.

In addition to options, Tektronix RSA5000B (RSA5100B) real-time analyzers can be equipped with various additional accessories (adapters, probes, attenuators, etc.). Below is a short list of compatible accessories. For a complete list with a detailed description, see below on this page in the section Documentation. In addition, you can choose accessories here: Measuring antennas and microwave accessories.