Form factor[edit]
Spectrum analyzers tend to fall into four form factors: benchtop, portable, handheld and networked.
Benchtop[edit]
This form factor is useful for applications where the spectrum analyzer can be plugged into AC power, which generally means in a lab environment or production/manufacturing area. Bench top spectrum analyzers have historically offered better performance and specifications than the portable or handheld form factor. Bench top spectrum analyzers normally have multiple fans (with associated vents) to dissipate heat produced by the processor. Due to their architecture, bench top spectrum analyzers typically weigh more than 30 pounds (14 kg). Some bench top spectrum analyzers offer optional battery packs, allowing them to be used away from AC power. This type of analyzer is often referred to as a "portable" spectrum analyzer.
Portable[edit]
This form factor is useful for any applications where the spectrum analyzer needs to be taken outside to make measurements or simply carried while in use. Attributes that contribute to a useful portable spectrum analyzer include:
Optional battery-powered operation to allow the user to move freely outside.
Clearly viewable display to allow the screen to be read in bright sunlight, darkness or dusty conditions..
Light weight (usually less than 15 pounds (6.8 kg)).
Handheld[edit]
This form factor is useful for any application where the spectrum analyzer needs to be very light and small. Handheld analyzers usually offer a limited capability relative to larger systems. Attributes that contribute to a useful handheld spectrum analyzer include:
Very low power consumption.
Battery-powered operation while in the field to allow the user to move freely outside.
Very small size
Light weight (usually less than 2 pounds (0.9 kg)).
Networked[edit]
This form factor does not include a display and these devices are designed to enable a new class of geographically-distributed spectrum monitoring and analysis applications. The key attribute is the ability to connect the analyzer to a network and monitor such devices across a network. While many spectrum analyzers have an Ethernet port for control, they typically lack efficient data transfer mechanisms and are too bulky and/or expensive to be deployed in such a distributed manner. Key applications for such devices include RF intrusion detection systems for secure facilities where wireless signaling is prohibited. As well cellular operators are using such analyzers to remotely monitor interference in licensed spectral bands. The distributed nature of such devices enable geo-location of transmitters, spectrum monitoring for dynamic spectrum access and many other such applications.
Key attributes of such devices include:
Network-efficient data transfer
Low power consumption
The ability to synchronize data captures across a network of analyzers
Low cost to enable mass deployment