Digital demodulation helps analyse Wi-Fi networks

Spectrum analysers have digital demodulation, for the analysis of 802.11a, b and g Wi-Fi networks, which allows engineers to analyse the transmitter characteristics of a wireless device.

The Aeroflex 3280 series spectrum analysers now offers digital demodulation for the analysis of 802.11a, b and g wireless networks.

Digital demodulation allows engineers to analyse the transmitter characteristics of a wireless device, and in the case of the 3280 series, it is easily operated in one of two modes.

Full-frequency mode links the rear panel IF output at 421.4MHz to the demodulator input, allowing the user to demodulate signals over the full frequency range of the spectrum analyser (3, 13.2 or 26.5GHz).

Dual-channel mode links directly from the instrument's front panel or optionally via a rear-panel connector to create a unique dual-channel instrument.

The frequency range for the direct input of the demodulator is 300MHz to 3GHz.

Although the 3280 series' digital demodulation hardware option does not include direct I and Q outputs, users who require it can access a direct digital I and Q output in streaming serial format by adding the optional low-voltage data signal (LVDS) output cable.

This optional cable is fitted internally between the demodulator LVDS output and the spectrum analyser rear panel.

The 3280 series 3Hz to 26.5GHz spectrum analysers are known for providing performance far beyond the price tag - offering impressive RF and microwave specifications, exceptional connectivity and many ease-of-use features at an affordable price.

The 3280 series has a high level of accuracy, +/-0.15dB up to 3GHz.

Other performance features include a local oscillator (LO) phase noise <-115dBm/Hz, 1GH/ 10kHz offset and +18dBm third order intermodulation performance.

Digital intermediate frequency (IF) offers resolution bandwidths from 5MHz to 1Hz.

The Windows XP operating system, internal hard drive and built-in CD-ROM make the 3280 series easy to use and allow for a wide range of interfaces, including LAN access, USB interface, RS-232, IEEE 488 (GPIB) and VGA outputs.

Centronics parallel ports are provided for printer, mouse and keyboard connectivity.

The 3280 series has a large 26.5cm TFT LCD display with ample viewing area, so data can be easily seen, even in split-screen mode, or with multiple windows open.

Three traces can be displayed per window and as many as nine markers can be selected with a marker table viewable in an alternate window.

Built-in functions can simplify the evaluation of many common measurements and the 3280 series offers several of these, including: channel power, adjacent channel power, occupied bandwidth, spectrum emission mask, TOI measurement, harmonic distortion, X dB down and phase noise measurement.

Delivery for the 3280 series is 10 weeks upon receipt of order.

Digital demodulation hardware (Option 2) is currently available for all existing 3280 series spectrum analysers.

One software measurement suite is available free of charge with a hardware purchase.

The software provides a graphical user interface (GUI) within the spectrum analyser menus to display the required suite of user selectable parameters.

A WLAN software suite supporting 802.11a, b and g is available now and additional measurement suite options will be coming soon.

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