Low-cost spectrum analyser for 2.4GHz networks

AeroComm's ASA spectrum analyser is a compact, cost-effective, PC-based instrument covering the entire 2.4GHz ISM band.

AeroComm's ASA spectrum analyser is a compact, cost-effective, PC-based instrument covering the entire 2.4GHz ISM band.

When combined with a notebook computer, the ASA enables comprehensive mobile site surveying, such as identifying optimal RF-equipment location as well as alerting installers to potential interferers.

The ASA comprises a sensitive receiver that is connected to a PC, and using proprietary application software it closely simulates the display of a dedicated and much more expensive full-blown spectrum analyser instrument.

The ASA's great benefit is its small size, making it portable and ideal for site analysis surveys.

Using the tool, a layman can have confidence installing RF equipment that potential interferers are identified as well as optimising the location of individual radios.

Before turning any radios on the first step is to use the ASA to observe any RF signals in the 2.4GHz band.

If there are any competing signals, they can be identified and evaluated for interference.

Once there is a good understanding of the environment, the ASA is used to help identify locations for radios.

Typically, the basestation would be located close to the controlling computer or device.

Here, a server radio would be turned on to emit a beacon whilst an engineer performs a walk around the facility to identify where the beacon can be heard; the signal strength being displayed on the PC/notebook screen.

Finally, having established suitable positions for repeaters, the installer can once again move around to locate the best position for the client's radios.

The ASA's software includes a number of tools that analyse the data gathered, enabling optimum performance of the radio installation at a fraction of the price than would be using expensive, dedicated, spectrum analysers that are bulky and often utilise a small screen.

There are three user-selectable parameters displayed, frequency (indicates centre frequency), span (range of frequencies) and amplitude or strength of the captured signal.

In addition to site surveying, the ASA can be used by the OEM for design and testing and even sold to the OEM's customers or dealers as an installation tool.

Often the most difficult task is when RF comes out of the lab and into the real world.

As a leader in the field of 2.4GHz transceivers for OEMs, AeroComm is committed to providing simple, cost effective tools to enable installations to be completed with minimum fuss and cost "instant wireless".

As part of this strategy, the ASA takes its place among a suite of tools available from AeroComm to assist OEMs to integrate and now install RF in commercial and industrial environments.

(This was Electronicstalk's Top Story on 25 February 2002).

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