FSWX signal and spectrum analyzer

Applications of the FSWX

Realize new possibilities with an evolved instrument architecture

The FSWX is the first signal and spectrum analyzer with multiple internal receive paths and filter banks. This means:

• Suppression of unwanted signals via preselection at the input
• Built-in cross-correlation mode, meaning no need for external splitters and additional calibration steps
• Two RF input ports with support for all modern mobile and wireless communication standards, as well as wideband applications
• Effective suppression of inherent local oscillator (LO) related spurs

Experience improved dynamic range and EVM measurements with cross-correlation techniques

The cross-correlation mode is a built-in feature of the FSWX and can be activated at the push of a button. This means:

• Suppression of inherent instrument noise beyond the capabilities of traditional signal and spectrum analyzers
• Excellent sensitivity for phase noise measurement
• Extended EVM performance bathtub curve due to improved dynamic range
• Detection of signals close to or even below the thermal noise

Find hidden spurs quickly

The multi-path architecture of the FSWX allows for enhanced signal detection capabilities, enabling the instrument to suppress inherent noise and improve sensitivity. The cross-correlation mode is also relevant here, as it lowers the noise floor without reducing the resolution bandwidth (RBW). This means:

• Faster sweep times
• Improved detection of small signals
• Simplified setup for spur detection, with no need for external splitters or additional calibration steps
• Enhanced sensitivity for detecting small RADAR cross section (RCS) targets, which may be obscured by clutter reflections

Overcome the limitations of YIG filters in wideband modulation analysis

The FSWX uses filter banks for preselection. These banks offer wider bandwidths and a flat frequency response, making them ideal for wideband I/Q analysis. This means:

• Enhanced dynamic range, which reduces measurement errors caused by unwanted signals at image frequencies
• Significantly improved level measurement accuracy
• Wideband I/Q analysis with image suppression across a broader range than the limited bandwidth of YIG filters
• Spectrum analysis that is 10-20 times faster than with YIG filters
• Switching between YIG filters for narrowband analysis and filter banks for speed and I/Q analysis

Enjoy a simplified setup for phased array antenna testing

With multiple phase-coherent channels, the FSWX supports precise measurement of phase alignment between different transmission paths in phased array antennas. The instrument’s design ensures that the initial phase is calibrated, facilitating accurate comparisons between antenna elements. This means:

• Easy testing of phased array antennas under modulated conditions
• Reduced complexity with minimized need for additional equipment or complex configurations
• Ability to handle various testing scenarios for phased array antennas

Address the challenges of signal interference in RADAR testing

Simultaneously capturing a wide bandwidth of signals is necessary to analyze the impact of signal interference in RADAR testing. The FSWX supports key RADAR testing functions. This means:

• Multiple input ports and a multi-path architecture that allow for simultaneous measurements
• Ability to set different frequencies for local oscillators or adjust gain and attenuation for each input, optimizing the dynamic range for various measurement scenarios
• Flexible triggering, which enables triggering on a different frequency than the measurement frequency, for analyzing the impact of one signal (e.g., Wi-Fi) on another (e.g., RADAR)
• Wide instrument bandwidth for capturing a complete signal scenario in a single measurement
• Enhanced interference analysis capability for measuring and analyzing interference between different communication standards and RADAR signals to understand interactions
• Improved sensitivity to better detect small higher harmonics of RADAR signals even in the presence of strong communication signals

Improved modulated component analysis

Modulated component analysis is important because critical component parameters depend on used bandwidth and modulation parameters. The FSWX supports this with simultaneous signal measurement. This means:

• Easy comparison of signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) or error vector magnitude (EVM) performance at the input and output of amplifiers or converters
• I/Q data analysis to evaluate modulation performance even when the input signal modulation is unknown
• High dynamic range that ensures accurate measurement of both input and output signals
• Built-in analysis capabilities tailored to modulated signals, streamlining the evaluation process and reducing the need for external hardware

Testing digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) for electronic warfare

Users developing electronic warfare (EW) applications can use the FSWX to examine the input and output of their devices and analyze the signal phase and amplitude in real time. This means:

• Capturing pulsed RADAR signals before and after the digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) in real time for detailed signal analysis
• Analysis of both amplitude and phase variations - critical for optimizing jamming EW applications
• Simultaneous measurement of input and output signals for comprehensive evaluation of DRFM performance and effectiveness
• High dynamic range for accurate detection of subtle changes in signal characteristics
• Support for various electronic warfare scenarios, making the FSWX suitable for testing different types of DRFM systems and configurations

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See the FSWX in action