Agilent PXA X-Series real-time spectrum analysers

Agilent Technologies has announced the availability of real-time spectrum analysis (RTSA) for its PXA X-Series signal analysers. Agilent’s RTSA delivers probability of intercept (POI), analysis bandwidth, sensitivity and frequency range - capabilities that enable system developers and signal analysts to see, capture and understand highly elusive signals.

In applications such as radar, electronic warfare and military communications, POI is the key benchmark for RTSA. When configured for real-time spectrum analysis, the PXA can detect intermittent signals with durations as short as 3.57 µs, which Agilent says is the best POI currently available.

To help detect more signals in less time, Agilent’s real-time PXA provides 75 dB spurious-free dynamic range across analysis bandwidths of up to 160 MHz. This enables users to place deep and wide measurements anywhere within a measurement range of 50 GHz.

In addition to its sensitivity of -157 dBm at 10 GHz (no preamp), the PXA also provides the ability to vary the resolution bandwidth within a measurement span. With this combination of capabilities, users are able to resolve closely spaced signals, identify intermittent low-level signals and further improve POI.

For deeper analysis and thorough characterisation of complex signals, a real-time PXA seamlessly integrates with Agilent 89600 VSA software. This combination of capabilities enables users to find the root cause of signal problems with troubleshooting tools that support measurements in the time, frequency and modulation domains. The software also provides connections to Agilent instruments such as vector signal generators and arbitrary waveform generators to play back captured signals as inputs to a device under test.