New handheld spectrum analyzer for field and lab can grow with needs

The versatile R&S Spectrum Rider, from Rohde & Schwarz, is designed to assist users during RF transmitter installation and maintenance and also supports measurement tasks in RF development labs and in service. With its high sensitivity of -160dBm and measurement accuracy of typically 0.5dB between 10MHz and 3GHz, the R&S Spectrum Rider offers class-leading RF performance. The frequency range of the R&S Spectrum Rider can be extended via software upgrades - a feature unrivaled in this instrument class. The base model covers the frequency range from 5kHz to 2GHz, which can be expanded to 3GHz or 4GHz to support applications that require higher frequencies such as measuring radio signals above 2GHz or signals above 3GHz in TD LTE bands. Rohde & Schwarz has optimized the R&S Spectrum Rider for mobile use. The battery of the lightweight unit (2.5kg) lasts up to eight hours, making it the only instrument of its kind capable of working a full day without recharging. The backlit keypad allows users to work in the dark, and the non-reflective display supports a daylight mode for good readability in direct sunlight. The R&S Spectrum Rider has been field-tested in line with MIL PRF 28800F Class 2 and comes with protected interfaces and ports. The instrument is the industry’s first handheld spectrum analyzer to offer a large format capacitive touchscreen that enables lab users to easily and intuitively adjust settings such as frequency, span and reference level and to set markers. Its large buttons and practical multifunction wheel also make it easy to operate with gloves in outdoor environments. The handheld spectrum analyzer can be remotely controlled via USB and LAN. A built-in measurement wizard automates measurements, reducing measurement times and enabling even novice users and operators with little RF expertise to reliably carry out measurement tasks. Settings and results are saved to a 32 Gbyte microSD card. The R&S Spectrum Rider, which comes with a number of convenient options, is a handy tool for users in diverse industries. Available options include, for example, peak and average power measurements. The instrument is designed to appeal to field technicians and lab engineers alike, as it supports everyday measurement tasks in aerospace and defence, wireless communications and broadcasting, and at regulatory authorities, says the company.