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Use of the 9kHz to 100kHz range in spectrum analyzers

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pdenisowski:

--- Quote from: FlexibleMammoth on April 10, 2023, 11:08:00 am ---So my question is - what are practical applications of the 9kHz to 100kHz range in spectrum analyzers? Is it a dealbreaker to miss that range?

--- End quote ---

Most people who need an analyzer with that low of a frequency range are using them for EMC: some compliance testing (for example, FCC part 15) requires that you go down to 9 kHz:

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-15#sp47.1.15.b

For hobby purposes, you're probably fine with an analyzer that starts at 100 kHz.   

It's worth mentioning that the frequency range of modern "professional" spectrum analyzers now often starts in the single-digit kHz range.  Even our entry-level FPC starts at 5 kHz.

https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/products/test-and-measurement/benchtop-analyzers/rs-fpc-spectrum-analyzer_63493-542324.html

And our high-end FSW spectrum analyzer bottoms out at 2 (yes, two)  Hz :)

AndyC_772:
I'm not sure there's a well defined requirement here; "hobby purposes" isn't a technical spec.

We need to know what you're actually doing, not just the fact that you're doing it for fun; always buy the tool you need after you've determined what you need it for. Buying a tool 'just in case' is the best way to end up with expensive kit on the shelf that you never use... been there, done that.

For what it's worth, I use the low frequency range on my spectrum analyser because I'm involved in ultrasonics and acoustics. It's interesting and relevant to me to be able to measure from the audio spectrum up to single digit MHz.

David Hess:

--- Quote from: FlexibleMammoth on April 10, 2023, 11:08:00 am ---So my question is - what are practical applications of the 9kHz to 100kHz range in spectrum analyzers? Is it a dealbreaker to miss that range?
--- End quote ---

Low frequency performance is limited by transformer coupling, and then rising flicker noise of the local oscillator and first mixer.  Swapping ports on the input transformer allows operation down to DC but noise is still a problem at low frequencies.

If you need lower frequency operations, or lower noise, then there are other instruments like dynamic signal analyzers.

FlexibleMammoth:
Very valid point.
I have a background in IoT wireless technologies (LPWA) and network protocol research, and would like to get some hands-on experience in modulation analysis of LPWA technologies, LTE and WiFi. Other than that, I want to build some antennas, sweep some PCBs for EMI and troubleshooting. Finally, I need the SA for troubleshooting RF gear - something I avoided until now, since my scope tops out <1GHz.
BR Andreas

FlexibleMammoth:

--- Quote from: AndyC_772 on April 10, 2023, 04:44:18 pm ---I'm not sure there's a well defined requirement here; "hobby purposes" isn't a technical spec.

We need to know what you're actually doing, not just the fact that you're doing it for fun; always buy the tool you need after you've determined what you need it for. Buying a tool 'just in case' is the best way to end up with expensive kit on the shelf that you never use... been there, done that.

--- End quote ---

I should have probably pinged you in the reply above, sorry about that.

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