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TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has launched a portable RF spectrum
analyser which, the company claims, represents a new price point for
such products.
As well as being lower cost, the PSA1301T is considerably smaller,
lighter, and lower power than other RF spectrum analysers currently
available. Despite this, it offers a high resolution (480 x 320 pixel)
backlit colour TFT display.
It achieves this by incorporating a handheld computer within the
analyser. This provides the display, control, calculation, mass storage
and external interface capabilities of the product.
The PSA1301T has a frequency range of 150 kHz to 1.3 GHz with selectable
resolution bandwidth down to 15 kHz. 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.
A reference trace can be displayed simultaneously with live trace,
clearly differentiated by colour. 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 or MMC flash memory card. These can be saved under default
or user entered file names as preferred. Bitmap images of the whole
screen can also be stored for viewing or printing.
Control of the analyser is provided by soft keys created on the touch
screen. These are large enough to be finger operated, eliminating the
need for a stylus. Alternatively, all functions can be operated using
the hard keys of the handheld.
Low power consumption generates more than four hours of continuous
operation from a charge. The analyser can also be set to turn off
automatically after a user defined delay from the last key press,
extending battery life further.
The PSA1301T will offer RF service engineers a cost effective and highly
portable tool that will make it practical to a carry a spectrum analyser
to areas that have traditionally been difficult to access with bench top
instruments and not cost effective when using existing portable products
offered by other manufacturers. This will reduce the need for a return
visit when it is suspected that a spectrum analyser is required.
Site testing for RFID is expected to be a popular are for the PSA1301T.
Availability of an ultra portable and low cost spectrum analyser with
full documentation stored in the built in handheld computer will ensure
that RF testing can be performed on any site service visit.
The Palm T|X handheld used within the PSA1301T provides the engineer
with a versatile tool for recording site information and visit results.
Documentation for the products being tested and test procedures can be
stored on the handheld while functioning within the PSA1301T.
Major applications 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.
The price and performance offered by the PSA1301T will also make it a
valuable tool for engineers that have infrequent requirements for a
spectrum analyser. EMC evaluation testing and RF interference caused by
high-speed clock signals can be identified quickly.
The PSA1301T weighs less than 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs) and measures 170 x 97 x
47 mm (6.7 x 3.8 x 1.85 inches). The weight and dimensions make it a
true handheld instrument, unlike other portable spectrum analysers which
can be up to four times the size and weight.
The PSA1301T costs £795 in the UK and 1,195 Euros in Continental Europe.
The approximate International price is $1,450.
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