Question on output signals from spectrum analyzer

[BravoV]

My spectrum analyzer has these two output signals (quotes from the manual) :

- IF OUT 10.7 MHz
IF out is 50 Ohm, 10.7 MHz IF output that is the down-converted signal of the RF input of the analyzer. This output is taken after the resolution bandwidth filters and step gains and before the log amplifier.

- VIDEO
VIDEO out provides detected video output (before the analog to digital conversion) proportional to vertical deflection of the trace. Output is from 0V to 5V.

Both also have this same description applied :
Amplitude correction factors are not applied to this signals. The output signal will be blanked occasionally during retrace by the automatic alignment routine.


When or where to use these signals usually ?

[w2aew]

My spectrum analyzer has these two output signals (quotes from the manual) :

- IF OUT 10.7 MHz
IF out is 50 Ohm, 10.7 MHz IF output that is the down-converted signal of the RF input of the analyzer. This output is taken after the resolution bandwidth filters and step gains and before the log amplifier.

- VIDEO
VIDEO out provides detected video output (before the analog to digital conversion) proportional to vertical deflection of the trace. Output is from 0V to 5V.

Both also have this same description applied :
Amplitude correction factors are not applied to this signals. The output signal will be blanked occasionally during retrace by the automatic alignment routine.


When or where to use these signals usually ?

Outputs like these aren't used very often, but here's an example for each that I've seen used over the years.  These examples would be used in Zero Span mode. 

The IF output can be connected to a receiver for demodulation, using the SA as a tuner. 

I've seen the video output connected to strip-chart recorder to track the long-term variation of a particular signal's amplitude.

[BravoV]

These examples would be used in Zero Span mode. 

The IF output can be connected to a receiver for demodulation, using the SA as a tuner. 

Great, really never thought of that on my SA. As mine capable of AM & FM demodulation, am I correct if it can be used sort of wide band snooping on analog radio signal ? CMIIW

I've seen the video output connected to strip-chart recorder to track the long-term variation of a particular signal's amplitude.

Ok, I can't think of the practical use for this, at least for me for this moment.


Thank you for the answers Alan. 

[dmills]

Those outputs are a bit like the Z axis input on a 'scope, not something you need often, but when you do need it you are very glad it is there.

Same thing with sweep trigger input on an SA or VNA and the DC bias inputs on a VNA test set, they let you do things otherwise impossible or very difficult, but those things are a once in a blue moon sort of thing.

Regards, Dan.

[BravoV]

Those outputs are a bit like the Z axis input on a 'scope, not something you need often, but when you do need it you are very glad it is there.

Dan, which one exactly ?

As enthusiast, could you can give an example specific case on this measurement ?

Same thing with sweep trigger input on an SA or VNA and the DC bias inputs on a VNA test set, they let you do things otherwise impossible or very difficult, but those things are a once in a blue moon sort of thing.

Do you mean ports like these two labelled "Ext trig" & "Swp Gate" ?