Tektronix RSA3408A Real-Time Spectrum Analyzer 

The Tektronix RSA3408A is a high-performance real-time spectrum analyzer designed for advanced RF and microwave signal analysis. Covering a frequency range of DC to 8 GHz, this analyzer provides real-time signal processing, deep memory capture, and advanced measurement capabilities, making it an ideal choice for wireless communications, radar, aerospace, and defense applications.

Equipped with multiple options, including Time & Frequency Analysis (Option 06), Enhanced Memory (Option L5), Modulation Analysis (Option 02), and 110 MHz Real-Time Bandwidth (Option 29), this model offers unmatched performance for complex signal analysis. With frequency mask triggering (FMT), high dynamic range, and real-time spectral monitoring, it is built for capturing transient events and ensuring signal integrity.

Key Features & Benefits

1. Wide Frequency Coverage (DC – 8 GHz)

• Enables detailed RF and microwave signal analysis across a broad spectrum.
• Ideal for wireless communications, radar, electronic warfare, and satellite applications.

2. Real-Time Signal Processing & Wideband Analysis

• 110 MHz real-time bandwidth (Option 29) for capturing wideband signals.
• Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)-based processing for high-speed analysis.
• Frequency Mask Triggering (FMT) to detect transient or intermittent signals.

3. High Dynamic Range & Sensitivity

• Low Phase Noise: Suitable for oscillator characterization and phase noise analysis.
• Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL):
  • < –160 dBm/Hz (with preamp)
  • < –150 dBm/Hz (without preamp)
• Spurious-Free Dynamic Range (SFDR): > 100 dB

4. Advanced Measurement Functions (with Installed Options)

• Option 06 – Time & Frequency Analysis: Simultaneous time and frequency domain analysis.
• Option L5 – Enhanced Memory: Deep memory for extended signal capture.
• Option 02 – Modulation Analysis: Supports AM, FM, PM, QAM, and PSK signals.
• Option 29 – 110 MHz Real-Time Bandwidth: Essential for wideband signal capture and analysis.

5. Fast Data Acquisition & Processing

• Real-time signal analysis ensures detailed spectral monitoring.
• Deep capture memory (Option L5) for extended data recording.

6. User-Friendly Interface & High-Resolution Display

• High-resolution color LCD for clear signal visualization.
• Graphical user interface (GUI) with intuitive navigation and analysis tools.

7. Versatile Connectivity & Remote Operation

• USB, GPIB, and LAN (Ethernet) interfaces for easy data transfer and integration.
• Remote control capabilities for automated testing and system integration.

8. Rugged & Reliable for Lab and Field Use

• Built for demanding RF environments, ensuring long-term stable performance.
• Suitable for research, development, and production testing.

Applications

• Wireless Communications Testing – 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi, and emerging standards.
• Radar & Electronic Warfare – Pulse analysis, spectral monitoring, and jammer testing.
• Aerospace & Defense – Military communication systems, satellite signal verification.
• Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) & Spectrum Monitoring – Interference detection and real-time analysis.
• Oscillator & Synthesizer Testing – High-precision phase noise characterization.
• Advanced Research & Development – Next-generation RF and microwave system design.

The Tektronix RSA3408A is a powerful real-time spectrum analyzer designed for high-performance RF analysis. With 110 MHz real-time bandwidth, deep memory, advanced modulation analysis, and real-time triggering capabilities, it is an essential tool for engineers and researchers working on complex RF and microwave applications.

Specifications

General Specifications

• Model: Tektronix RSA3408A
• Type: Real-Time Spectrum Analyzer
• Frequency Range: DC to 8 GHz
• Real-Time Bandwidth: Up to 110 MHz (with Option 29)
• Memory Depth: Extended (with Option L5)

Frequency Characteristics

• Frequency Tuning Range: DC to 8 GHz
• Resolution Bandwidth (RBW): 10 Hz to 10 MHz (user-selectable)
• Video Bandwidth (VBW): 10 Hz to 10 MHz
• Frequency Span: 10 Hz to 8 GHz
• Frequency Accuracy: ±0.1 ppm (with external reference)
• Phase Noise:
  • @ 10 kHz Offset (1 GHz Carrier): < –120 dBc/Hz
  • @ 100 kHz Offset (1 GHz Carrier): < –140 dBc/Hz

Dynamic Range & Sensitivity

• Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL):
  • < –160 dBm/Hz (Preamp On, Below 3 GHz)
  • < –150 dBm/Hz (Preamp Off, Full Bandwidth)
• Third-Order Intercept (TOI): +20 dBm typical
• 1 dB Compression Point (P1dB): +15 dBm typical
• Spurious-Free Dynamic Range (SFDR): > 100 dB

Real-Time & Advanced Analysis Features

• Real-Time Spectrum Analysis: Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)-based processing
• Triggering Modes:
  • Frequency Mask Trigger (FMT)
  • Time-Domain Triggering
  • Pulse and Edge Detection

Measurement & Processing Capabilities

• Advanced Signal Analysis:
  • Channel Power & Occupied Bandwidth (OBW)
  • Adjacent Channel Power Ratio (ACPR)
  • Spurious & Harmonic Analysis
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)

Installed Options & Capabilities

• Option 06 – Time & Frequency Analysis
• Option L5 – Enhanced Memory for Extended Capture
• Option 02 – Modulation Analysis for AM/FM/PM/QAM/PSK Signals
• Option 29 – 110 MHz Real-Time Bandwidth

Display & User Interface

• Display: High-resolution color LCD
• Markers & Cursors: Multiple markers for precision signal analysis
• User Interface: Graphical, menu-driven operation

Connectivity & Data Management

• Interfaces:
  • USB – Data transfer and remote operation
  • GPIB & LAN (Ethernet) – Network integration and automated testing
• Data Storage: Internal and USB-based storage options

Physical & Environmental

• Form Factor: Benchtop instrument
• Power Requirements: AC mains powered
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 50°C
• Weight: Approximately 25 kg (55 lbs)
• Dimensions: 435 mm × 235 mm × 460 mm

Applications

• 5G & Wireless Communications Testing
• Radar & Electronic Warfare Signal Analysis
• Aerospace & Defense RF System Validation
• Spectrum Monitoring & Signal Intelligence (SIGINT)
• Oscillator & Phase Noise Characterization
• Research & Development in RF & Microwave Systems