I need an Spectrum analizer for my hobby

[Free_WiFi]

I drawing wifi antennas (2,4 Ghz) and from not long time ago, i also started an project from this thread here : Diy metcal power supply https://tinyurl.com/z6be7c7
Arrived at this point i can't proceed anymore in my hobby without an spectrum analizer .
I dont need something of very expensive ,i just need something that can cover my basic needs for wifi antennas (2,4Ghz) and give me a help on projects like the DIY METCAL POWER SUPPLY (13,56 Mhz)

I need your help to take 1 spectrum analizer ,pls help me in this "adventure" also because i would be a newbie to this stuff .
Thanks you soo much .

[tautech]

Other than second hand units that could be cheaper than these but you won't know if they are working to spec or have been damaged by misuse.
These are pretty popular on the forum for those getting into SA's, the 2.1 GHz units can be improved to operate up to 3.2 GHz.
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/hack-of-sigllent-spectrum-analyzer-ssa3021x/

[dmills]

Get thee to a Ham rally, what you want is a "Radio comms test set", even something like an Anritsu 8801B would do, and I got one of those for £60 (Screen is poor, a common failing on that model, but replacements are allegedly available).

They usually (these days) come designed for mobile phone testing, but a few button pushes will usually get you to a useful spectrum analyser, power meter, and often a signal generator. Because they do not usually say "Spectrum analyser" on the box they go for little money considering that the original price was usually 5 figures. 

I would suggest however that what you really need for antenna work is more likely to be a VNA, somewhat rarer at a reasonable price point.

73 Dan.

[brucehoult]

I have one of these and find it useful.

http://j3.rf-explorer.com/40-rfe/article/80-getting-started-with-rf-explorer

There are models covering a single ISM band (e.g. 433 MHz or 915 MHz) for $99, plus you can add on an extra module such as the 2.4 GHz one for $45.

If you only want 2.4 GHz and nothing else then there is a model for $119 https://www.seeedstudio.com/RF-Explorer-model-2.4G-p-924.html

Or you might want the "WIFI combo" model http://j3.rf-explorer.com/60-rfe/specifications/131-rf-explorer-wifi-combo-specification
for $270 https://www.seeedstudio.com/RF-Explorer-WiFi-Combo-p-2321.html