Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Hi Mark, late response, but I've been looking at the 3582A. Using a mixer for PN at higher frequencies is OK, see http://www.hpmemory.org/technics/bench/3048/pn_measrmt_single.htm Pretty good for comparing a number of oscillators. You can use a doubler (HP10115A http://www.leapsecond.com/pages/20mhz/ ) to compare a 5MHz and 10MHz OCXO. The 3582A cost over $14,000 in 1990. Robert G8RPI. From: Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au To: Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement time-nuts@febo.com Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013, 18:00 Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions 2 Seconds After I sent that, I thought, what am I saying, what can we measure from 0.02-25Khz besides audio or seismic events?! The 3582A phase spectrum function is interesting. I suppose one could employ some sort of LO/mixer to get it down to 25Khz but would mess the phase up anyway. The 3582A is 25Kg, the 3585A is 40Kg. Actually, looking at the spec sheet the 3585A is 20Hz-40Mhz, not 10Hz. 3585A Residual phase noise (typical at 40 MHz, -10 dBm input), 5 KHz offset: -112 dBc/Hz. 100 KHz offset: -120 dBc/Hz. Which is about what I get in PN.exe. 3568B is specified -107dBc @ 30kHz offset, I am getting way lower than that, seems noise floor for me is ~-170 in PN.exe. But I don't know how accurate it is way down there. -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Mark C. Stephens Sent: Monday, 15 July 2013 2:35 AM To: Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions I just wish John Miles could get it into the Phase noise list of sources.. -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of dlewis6...@austin.rr.com Sent: Monday, 15 July 2013 2:12 AM To: Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions Consider the HP 3582 for the 'lower-end', ...it is a very nice SA (using FFT). Slow, tho. It tops out at 25KHz, but has a long list attributes. ...some being lightweight and modestly 'affordable.' -Don Lewis Austin, TX (Hyde Park) K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Hi Chris, On 07/14/2013 05:50 PM, Chris Albertson wrote: If you are after the cheapest and smallest spectrum analyzer possible look for a TV tuning USB dongle. Some of these tune over the range of 64-1700 MHz There is software to do FFT and plot spectrums You can set started plotting in the UHF range for $20. It is a bit do it yourself in that you likely need a selection of attenuators and and so on because the dongle expects the signal level of a cable TV or TV antenna and the bandwidth is not DC to GHz. But the cost is right. Here are some screen shots http://blog.opensecurityresearch.com/2012/06/getting-started-with-gnu-radio-and-rtl.html Been toying around with one too. A few notes: 1) Some tuners have a gap in the L-band. 2) Frequency tracing to the 28,8 MHz crystal, uncompensated. Hacking up a lock to a 10 MHz would improve things. 3) The RTL sampler provides you with just above 2 MS/s datastream as a stable rate, which limits the bandwidth in a single sweep. I have yet not seen a spectrum analyzer app that combines sweeps. In general I havve not seen a Spectrum Analyzer style GUI for RTLs. 4) Make sure to enable the RTL in an offset LO and not in zero LO mode, due to 1/f noise. Modern code supports it, but you need to enable it. 5) I have modifies mine to provide +5 V DC on the antenna, as it will allow for a LNA at the antenna. Cheers, Magnus ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
[time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
ARRL did a review of a brand new Rigol spectrum analyzer. (Don't remember the model # off hand). But for about $1500,you get an analyzer about the size of the small modern scopes, with warranty. The review wasn't bad, but the unit had a few minor quirks. Depending on your application it may work out well. I'm personally not a fan of the inexpensive Asian stuff, but the price ranges are getting low enough I admit that I'm looking more seriously now. On 7/13/2013 11:49 PM, time-nuts-requ...@febo.com wrote: What I?d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter.? A smaller size would also be a benefit. ?I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Rigol, unlike most of the Asian based manufacturers, does have a support office in the States. They have also had a noticeable presence at the Dayton Hamvention. I'm rather pleased with the low-end Rigol scope I bought at Dayton two years ago. Bob LaJeunesse From: Dan Kemppainen d...@irtelemetrics.com I'm personally not a fan of the inexpensive Asian stuff, but the price ranges are getting low enough I admit that I'm looking more seriously now. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
If you are OK with a 50lb compact box, the HP 8924C Service Monitor can be found with a mechanical input attenuator option that gives you a high performance SA+TG from 400khz-1Ghz plus RF SigGen plus RF Power Meter plus plus plus. If you don't get the right attenuator then its only linear from 10Mhz-1Ghz. In essence it's identical to the famous HP8920A/B just about 25lbs heavier. Nice working examples can be had for less than $1000 . Jerry K1JOS -Original Message- From: Dan Kemppainen [mailto:d...@irtelemetrics.com] Sent: Monday, July 15, 2013 08:58 To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions ARRL did a review of a brand new Rigol spectrum analyzer. (Don't remember the model # off hand). But for about $1500,you get an analyzer about the size of the small modern scopes, with warranty. The review wasn't bad, but the unit had a few minor quirks. Depending on your application it may work out well. I'm personally not a fan of the inexpensive Asian stuff, but the price ranges are getting low enough I admit that I'm looking more seriously now. On 7/13/2013 11:49 PM, time-nuts-requ...@febo.com wrote: What I?d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter.? A smaller size would also be a benefit. ?I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
On 15 July 2013 14:19, Robert LaJeunesse rlajeune...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Rigol, unlike most of the Asian based manufacturers, does have a support office in the States. They have also had a noticeable presence at the Dayton Hamvention. I'm rather pleased with the low-end Rigol scope I bought at Dayton two years ago. Bob LaJeunesse I don't know if it is true, but I read somewhere that some of the low-end Agilent scopes are made by Rigol. Personally I'd try to work around the weight issues of the HP. At least the HP will be fixable, whereas the Rigol will most likely be unrepairable in a few years time. Dave ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
On Mon, Jul 15, 2013 at 7:37 AM, David Kirkby david.kir...@onetel.netwrote: On 15 July 2013 14:19, Robert LaJeunesse rlajeune...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Rigol, unlike most of the Asian based manufacturers, does have a support office in the States. They have also had a noticeable presence at the Dayton Hamvention. I'm rather pleased with the low-end Rigol scope I bought at Dayton two years ago. Bob LaJeunesse I don't know if it is true, but I read somewhere that some of the low-end Agilent scopes are made by Rigol. Personally I'd try to work around the weight issues of the HP. At least the HP will be fixable, whereas the Rigol will most likely be unrepairable in a few years time. That was true, but I'm not sure it's true any more. The new Rigol 2000 series scopes look very nice, but I just paid Tektronix to tell me my 15 year old TDS210 is still in calibration, so no new scope for me. Back to spectrum analyzers. The Rigol is very nice, but as far as I can tell, an HP 8568A/B is going to beat it handily in terms of phase noise and resolution bandwidth and you can pick up a good example of the HP for about the same price. But you do have the weight issue. You need a GPIB controller if you want to capture screenshots etc. from the HP, but the Prologix USB controller at $150 will do that nicely. If you want new and a warranty, I think the Rigol is the way to go. There is also the Signalhound, but it has software issues and needs a PC to drive it. I got a broken 8568B with the intent of fixing it, selling it and getting a Signalhound. The 8568B, though marginal on its log fidelity test (an in-spec Rigol would be no better) is staying. If you want to know what's in a Rigol SA, Dave Jones has a teardown here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY0acWrCYjw Orin. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
On 07/15/2013 10:37 AM, David Kirkby wrote: I don't know if it is true, but I read somewhere that some of the low-end Agilent scopes are made by Rigol. Personally I'd try to work around the weight issues of the HP. At least the HP will be fixable, whereas the Rigol will most likely be unrepairable in a few years time. True, but at about $300 (and declining with time), who'd want to bother with anything other than superficial repairs - replace a BNC jack or clean a button or something? If it quits, just chunk it in the trash and get another. That goes against every molecule of my frugal sensibilities but that's the name of the game in electronics these days. Another consideration is, if a power surge takes out the unit, you don't have a heart attack like one would with a $20k HP or Tek instrument. John -- John DeArmond Tellico Plains, Occupied TN http://www.fluxeon.com -- THE source for induction heaters http://www.neon-john.com-- email from here http://www.johndearmond.com -- Best damned Blog on the net PGP key: wwwkeys.pgp.net: BCB68D77 ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Perry Thats a tough one. Many have made suggestions but those are all pretty much RF spectrum analyzers and the fact that you want low frequency suggests a signal analyzer class machine. That very low end will not exist on most RF analyzers. I have 4 HP 8568s and they go from 100 Hz to 1.5 GHz and are simply amazing. Its funny a fellow told me if I ever obtained one I would be very happy and I am. But light weight man I can only put 1 on the bench at a time for fear the bench may collapse. I would have to look but I bet each sections 50 Lbs. Hey its HP you pay for metal or at least you used to. Not sure I have an answer for you. But to give a reasonable answer you need to share more detail. Already light weight and small are important and we know 10Hz to 40 Mhz. To really cover those ranges its 2 devices. A signal analyzer and a spectrum analyzer. Regards Paul WB8TSL On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.auwrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
If you are after the cheapest and smallest spectrum analyzer possible look for a TV tuning USB dongle. Some of these tune over the range of 64-1700 MHz There is software to do FFT and plot spectrums You can set started plotting in the UHF range for $20. It is a bit do it yourself in that you likely need a selection of attenuators and and so on because the dongle expects the signal level of a cable TV or TV antenna and the bandwidth is not DC to GHz. But the cost is right. Here are some screen shots http://blog.opensecurityresearch.com/2012/06/getting-started-with-gnu-radio-and-rtl.html On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 7:56 AM, K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. -- Chris Albertson Redondo Beach, California ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Consider the HP 3582 for the 'lower-end', ...it is a very nice SA (using FFT). Slow, tho. It tops out at 25KHz, but has a long list attributes. ...some being lightweight and modestly 'affordable.' -Don Lewis Austin, TX (Hyde Park) K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
I just wish John Miles could get it into the Phase noise list of sources.. -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of dlewis6...@austin.rr.com Sent: Monday, 15 July 2013 2:12 AM To: Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions Consider the HP 3582 for the 'lower-end', ...it is a very nice SA (using FFT). Slow, tho. It tops out at 25KHz, but has a long list attributes. ...some being lightweight and modestly 'affordable.' -Don Lewis Austin, TX (Hyde Park) K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
2 Seconds After I sent that, I thought, what am I saying, what can we measure from 0.02-25Khz besides audio or seismic events?! The 3582A phase spectrum function is interesting. I suppose one could employ some sort of LO/mixer to get it down to 25Khz but would mess the phase up anyway. The 3582A is 25Kg, the 3585A is 40Kg. Actually, looking at the spec sheet the 3585A is 20Hz-40Mhz, not 10Hz. 3585A Residual phase noise (typical at 40 MHz, -10 dBm input), 5 KHz offset: -112 dBc/Hz. 100 KHz offset: -120 dBc/Hz. Which is about what I get in PN.exe. 3568B is specified -107dBc @ 30kHz offset, I am getting way lower than that, seems noise floor for me is ~-170 in PN.exe. But I don't know how accurate it is way down there. -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Mark C. Stephens Sent: Monday, 15 July 2013 2:35 AM To: Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions I just wish John Miles could get it into the Phase noise list of sources.. -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of dlewis6...@austin.rr.com Sent: Monday, 15 July 2013 2:12 AM To: Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions Consider the HP 3582 for the 'lower-end', ...it is a very nice SA (using FFT). Slow, tho. It tops out at 25KHz, but has a long list attributes. ...some being lightweight and modestly 'affordable.' -Don Lewis Austin, TX (Hyde Park) K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
On the other end of the price spectrum, depending on budget I think a great value is an Agilent L1500A . There is currently one on eBay with a tracking generator for $2000 make offer so perhaps $1200-1500 . It is portable, accurate , relieable, and super user friendly instrument. If you can afford it you will never regret it. Best Wishes; Thomas Knox From: albertson.ch...@gmail.com Date: Sun, 14 Jul 2013 08:50:18 -0700 To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions If you are after the cheapest and smallest spectrum analyzer possible look for a TV tuning USB dongle. Some of these tune over the range of 64-1700 MHz There is software to do FFT and plot spectrums You can set started plotting in the UHF range for $20. It is a bit do it yourself in that you likely need a selection of attenuators and and so on because the dongle expects the signal level of a cable TV or TV antenna and the bandwidth is not DC to GHz. But the cost is right. Here are some screen shots http://blog.opensecurityresearch.com/2012/06/getting-started-with-gnu-radio-and-rtl.html On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 7:56 AM, K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. -- Chris Albertson Redondo Beach, California ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Hi If you decide to go with a L1500A: try to verify it's got a reasonably good CRT *and* valid cal data in the EEPROM. It's of the generation that looses a lot when the cal data goes away. Yes, it's no worse than a mid range old style analyzer without the data, but it's a *lot* better with it. Bob On Jul 14, 2013, at 3:24 PM, Tom Knox act...@hotmail.com wrote: On the other end of the price spectrum, depending on budget I think a great value is an Agilent L1500A . There is currently one on eBay with a tracking generator for $2000 make offer so perhaps $1200-1500 . It is portable, accurate , relieable, and super user friendly instrument. If you can afford it you will never regret it. Best Wishes; Thomas Knox From: albertson.ch...@gmail.com Date: Sun, 14 Jul 2013 08:50:18 -0700 To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions If you are after the cheapest and smallest spectrum analyzer possible look for a TV tuning USB dongle. Some of these tune over the range of 64-1700 MHz There is software to do FFT and plot spectrums You can set started plotting in the UHF range for $20. It is a bit do it yourself in that you likely need a selection of attenuators and and so on because the dongle expects the signal level of a cable TV or TV antenna and the bandwidth is not DC to GHz. But the cost is right. Here are some screen shots http://blog.opensecurityresearch.com/2012/06/getting-started-with-gnu-radio-and-rtl.html On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 7:56 AM, K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. -- Chris Albertson Redondo Beach, California ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
I think the L1500A is also called an E4401B, also the E4403B 9KHz to 3GHz is not much more on the used market. Best Wishes; Thomas Knox From: li...@rtty.us Date: Sun, 14 Jul 2013 15:33:09 -0400 To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions Hi If you decide to go with a L1500A: try to verify it's got a reasonably good CRT *and* valid cal data in the EEPROM. It's of the generation that looses a lot when the cal data goes away. Yes, it's no worse than a mid range old style analyzer without the data, but it's a *lot* better with it. Bob On Jul 14, 2013, at 3:24 PM, Tom Knox act...@hotmail.com wrote: On the other end of the price spectrum, depending on budget I think a great value is an Agilent L1500A . There is currently one on eBay with a tracking generator for $2000 make offer so perhaps $1200-1500 . It is portable, accurate , relieable, and super user friendly instrument. If you can afford it you will never regret it. Best Wishes; Thomas Knox From: albertson.ch...@gmail.com Date: Sun, 14 Jul 2013 08:50:18 -0700 To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions If you are after the cheapest and smallest spectrum analyzer possible look for a TV tuning USB dongle. Some of these tune over the range of 64-1700 MHz There is software to do FFT and plot spectrums You can set started plotting in the UHF range for $20. It is a bit do it yourself in that you likely need a selection of attenuators and and so on because the dongle expects the signal level of a cable TV or TV antenna and the bandwidth is not DC to GHz. But the cost is right. Here are some screen shots http://blog.opensecurityresearch.com/2012/06/getting-started-with-gnu-radio-and-rtl.html On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 7:56 AM, K3wry k3...@aol.com wrote: Take a look at the RIGOL analyzer. You can get this new one for about the same money Dr Joe PALSA 804-350-2665 Sent from my iPhone. On Jul 14, 2013, at 1:18 AM, Mark C. Stephens ma...@non-stop.com.au wrote: Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. -- Chris Albertson Redondo Beach, California ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Hi Perry: You might consider the SDR-IQ Software Defined Radio. This particular model is very capable and very reasonably priced. http://www.prc68.com/I/Bats.shtml#SDRIQ http://www.rfspace.com/RFSPACE/SDR-IQ.html 500 Hertz to 30 MHz coverage. Useable down to 100 Hz. Not as good as the HP 4395A which goes down to 10 Hertz with a true RBW of 1 Hz. http://www.prc68.com/I/4395A.shtml#SA Have Fun, Brooke Clarke http://www.PRC68.com http://www.end2partygovernment.com/2012Issues.html Perry Sandeen wrote: List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
The SDR-IQ is certainly a great little receiver. Simon Brown's SDR-Console software satisfies my needs. Lee Mushel - Original Message - From: Brooke Clarke bro...@pacific.net To: Perry Sandeen sandee...@yahoo.com; Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement time-nuts@febo.com Sent: Sunday, July 14, 2013 3:53 PM Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions Hi Perry: You might consider the SDR-IQ Software Defined Radio. This particular model is very capable and very reasonably priced. http://www.prc68.com/I/Bats.shtml#SDRIQ http://www.rfspace.com/RFSPACE/SDR-IQ.html 500 Hertz to 30 MHz coverage. Useable down to 100 Hz. Not as good as the HP 4395A which goes down to 10 Hertz with a true RBW of 1 Hz. http://www.prc68.com/I/4395A.shtml#SA Have Fun, Brooke Clarke http://www.PRC68.com http://www.end2partygovernment.com/2012Issues.html Perry Sandeen wrote: List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
There are a lot of pre-build RF front ends that could be used for an a spectrum analyzer and much of the software is general enough that it can use more than one front end. The problem always with the low cost hardware is bandwidth. SOme of these front ends are mixers that take the RF down to baseband where it is sampled by an audio interface on the computer. The best of these can handle up to about 100KHz bandwidth. The other low cost front ends are those designed for video signals. These have much wider bandwidth but worse dynamic range. I'm looking at a project right now to build a solar spectrograph that would work up to about 1.5GHz. It is a science instrument for observing RF emissions from solar flairs. It turns out that the TV tuners inside the typical Cable box have wide bandwidth because to need to decode the QAM signal. The tuners cost under $20 and can be driven by an external oscillator. On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 5:02 PM, Lee Mushel herbe...@centurytel.net wrote: The SDR-IQ is certainly a great little receiver. Simon Brown's SDR-Console software satisfies my needs. Lee Mushel - Original Message - From: Brooke Clarke bro...@pacific.net To: Perry Sandeen sandee...@yahoo.com; Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement time-nuts@febo.com Sent: Sunday, July 14, 2013 3:53 PM Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions Hi Perry: You might consider the SDR-IQ Software Defined Radio. This particular model is very capable and very reasonably priced. http://www.prc68.com/I/Bats.**shtml#SDRIQhttp://www.prc68.com/I/Bats.shtml#SDRIQ http://www.rfspace.com/**RFSPACE/SDR-IQ.htmlhttp://www.rfspace.com/RFSPACE/SDR-IQ.html 500 Hertz to 30 MHz coverage. Useable down to 100 Hz. Not as good as the HP 4395A which goes down to 10 Hertz with a true RBW of 1 Hz. http://www.prc68.com/I/4395A.**shtml#SAhttp://www.prc68.com/I/4395A.shtml#SA Have Fun, Brooke Clarke http://www.PRC68.com http://www.**end2partygovernment.com/**2012Issues.htmlhttp://www.end2partygovernment.com/2012Issues.html Perry Sandeen wrote: List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier __**_ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/** mailman/listinfo/time-nutshttps://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. __**_ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/** mailman/listinfo/time-nutshttps://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. __**_ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/** mailman/listinfo/time-nutshttps://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. -- Chris Albertson Redondo Beach, California ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
On 14 July 2013 04:09, Perry Sandeen sandee...@yahoo.com wrote: List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! An SA is generally not something one moves around a lot, but if you do, and have the money, the Agilent FieldFox should do. But they are many thousands of dollars. I know it might sound a silly question, but why is the weight a problem? Can't you stick it in a rack and forget about it? A rack also has the advantage of making it less nickable (that's the technical term!!) You need to deceide whether you need a tracking generator, as that might dictate what you can use. I've got an 22 GHz (or it might be 18 GHz) SA in an HP 7 series mainframe. They are more than you wanted to spend, and are even heavier. But whilst a tracking generator is available, a 22 GHz one is loads of money. Luckily I have a 50 MHz to 20 GHz VNA, so there is not much use for a tracking generator below 50 MHz, as I can use the VNA. Below 50 MHz, I would have more use for a tracking generator, as my VNA does not go below 50 MHz, but fortunately the HP 2.9 GHz tracking generator is about 10% the price of the 22 GHz one. The Rigol might be your best option if weight is an issue. Personally I'd try to convert that into a non-issue. Dave ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
I'm using a SignalHound spectrum analyzer on the bench and on the go for some time. It's got a glitch or two, and for the price an old Hp might be better, but the size and weight ratio is about 100:1. A Rigol does cost a little more. But the Signal Hound is much smaller than a breadbox, uses a PC for control, readout, and power, has receiver, phase noise, and other functions besides spectrum. There's also a tracking generator companion. The SH can also be driven by a precision 10 MHz reference. I've found that a good laptop, the Signal Hound, its tracking generator, a USB oscilloscope and a pattern analyzer, can all fit in a small briefcase. I also have USB controlled attenuator. Robot Basic is free and controls a lot of stuff, and for low frequencies, the sound card and Spectran or Spectrum Lab are incredibly cost effective. BTW, if you decide to use a powered USB expander, check the external power supply. Most are far too wimpy, and cause bad behavior. A Radio Shack 7.5 volt RC battery pack and one of the Chinese dc-dc adjustable converters, about $2, provides power for a 7-port expander. Things have sure improved since I built my Eico VTVM kit in 1952! Don Chris Albertson There are a lot of pre-build RF front ends that could be used for an a spectrum analyzer and much of the software is general enough that it can use more than one front end. The problem always with the low cost hardware is bandwidth. SOme of these front ends are mixers that take the RF down to baseband where it is sampled by an audio interface on the computer. The best of these can handle up to about 100KHz bandwidth. The other low cost front ends are those designed for video signals. These have much wider bandwidth but worse dynamic range. I'm looking at a project right now to build a solar spectrograph that would work up to about 1.5GHz. It is a science instrument for observing RF emissions from solar flairs. It turns out that the TV tuners inside the typical Cable box have wide bandwidth because to need to decode the QAM signal. The tuners cost under $20 and can be driven by an external oscillator. On Sun, Jul 14, 2013 at 5:02 PM, Lee Mushel herbe...@centurytel.net wrote: The SDR-IQ is certainly a great little receiver. Simon Brown's SDR-Console software satisfies my needs. Lee Mushel - Original Message - From: Brooke Clarke bro...@pacific.net To: Perry Sandeen sandee...@yahoo.com; Discussion of precise time and frequency measurement time-nuts@febo.com Sent: Sunday, July 14, 2013 3:53 PM Subject: Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions Hi Perry: You might consider the SDR-IQ Software Defined Radio. This particular model is very capable and very reasonably priced. http://www.prc68.com/I/Bats.**shtml#SDRIQhttp://www.prc68.com/I/Bats.shtml#SDRIQ http://www.rfspace.com/**RFSPACE/SDR-IQ.htmlhttp://www.rfspace.com/RFSPACE/SDR-IQ.html 500 Hertz to 30 MHz coverage. Useable down to 100 Hz. Not as good as the HP 4395A which goes down to 10 Hertz with a true RBW of 1 Hz. http://www.prc68.com/I/4395A.**shtml#SAhttp://www.prc68.com/I/4395A.shtml#SA Have Fun, Brooke Clarke http://www.PRC68.com http://www.**end2partygovernment.com/**2012Issues.htmlhttp://www.end2partygovernment.com/2012Issues.html Perry Sandeen wrote: List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what Id be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didnt know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What Id appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier __**_ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/** mailman/listinfo/time-nutshttps://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. __**_ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/** mailman/listinfo/time-nutshttps://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. __**_ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/** mailman/listinfo/time-nutshttps://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. -- Chris Albertson Redondo Beach, California ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe
[time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Well Perry, You could consider an IFR A-7550 SpecAn. They are not HP but still a decent little SpecAn that is just a bit bigger then a TEK-453 scope. It covers from 100KHz to 1GHz. Shop carefully to make sure you get one with atleast the internal tracking generator option. DO NOT rely on pictures because the tracking generator connector is there even if no option. There is also an internal receiver option, but that only works when you are at zero span and truthfully, not all that useful, but nice to have. It also has an internal battery option, however, the battery pack is quite expensive and unless you actually need it, it is a complete waste of money. If it comes with a battery, expect it to not be in very good shape. The battery pack is made up of large round 2 volt lead acid cells and when left discharged will leak acid. BillWB6BNQ Perry Sandeen wrote: List,  I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good.  The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time!  What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit.  I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK.  Suggestions appreciated.  Regards,  Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Perry, I did not pay attention to bottom frequency of the hp SpecAn in my last post. Do you actually do something below 100KHz ? BillWB6BNQ Perry Sandeen wrote: List,  I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good.  The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time!  What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit.  I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK.  Suggestions appreciated.  Regards,  Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
It may be heavy but is a VERY nice analyzer. I have a Tek 495P which is also a very nice analyzer, goes to 1.8 GHz, is smaller and somewhat lighter (portable), and should be findable in nice condition for under $1k. On 7/13/2013 11:09 PM, Perry Sandeen wrote: List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1432 / Virus Database: 3204/5989 - Release Date: 07/13/13 ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
Re: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions
Perry I have a 3585A too, The weight isn't so bad once you get used to it. :) Mines on a rack shelf that I can slide it out onto the workbench for maintenance. Performance wise, they are fantastic for phase noise measurement using John Miles's Phase noise software. Although a little slow, It is pretty nice to see what's going on down at 10 Hz. I really can't find a replacement for my 3585A, other than the B model. Also the boards come up cheap on eBay if you need parts. I have almost a complete set of spare boards I bought for 10 bucks each. So all in all, you got yourself a good Analyser, cheap to maintain and good specs. Run it through the performance tests as per the manual, this SA will be a pleasant surprise for you :) -marki -Original Message- From: time-nuts-boun...@febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-boun...@febo.com] On Behalf Of Perry Sandeen Sent: Sunday, 14 July 2013 1:10 PM To: time-nuts@febo.com Subject: [time-nuts] Spectrum Analyzer Suggestions List, I just purchased a HP 3585 spec analyzer on E bay for a reasonable price. I wanted this instead of the 181 series as the range was more to what I’d be using and it was of a newer vintage. The 3585a goes from 10 Hz to 40 MHz which is a most useful range for my purposes. so far, so good. The problem is I didn’t know the beast weighed a svelte 88 pounds! Double Hernia time! What I’d appreciate advice for a used spec analyzer in the $1,000 range that is at least much lighter. A smaller size would also be a benefit. I probably would never use it above 100 MHz. A slightly smaller screen would be OK. Suggestions appreciated. Regards, Perrier ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there. ___ time-nuts mailing list -- time-nuts@febo.com To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
