Hi, I have another question about test equipment. When using a spectrum analyzer to examine the output of a frequency standard, what are the minimum specification needed? Bandwidth, resolution, sensitivity, etc?
Looking at spectrum analyzers on eBay, I see quite a bit of difference between various models. Some have a resolution of 10Hz but others are 30Hz or even 100Hz. Some have a minimum frequency of 0.01Hz, 100Hz or even in the kHz range. Some are only sensitive to 60dBm, but others over 100dBm. Are any of the cheaper USB spectrum analyzers worth getting? Most of these are appallingly expensive, so knowing what is needed can certainly help guide a purchase or to minimize cost. And if a "deal" is found, knowing that it is or is not adequate can help. Clearly, better specifications are preferable, but I'm also sure that the intended application makes a large difference. What is needed for examining a 10Mhz frequency standard might be remarkably different from what is needed for high-frequency RF work. Mike _______________________________________________ time-nuts mailing list -- [email protected] To unsubscribe, go to https://www.febo.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/time-nuts and follow the instructions there.
