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Optimizing Agilent N9322C BSA Spectrum Analyzer for low-level signal detection.
The spectrum analyzer's ability to measure low-levels signals is limited by the noise
generated inside the analyzer. Typically three adjustments are made to lower the analyzer's
displayed average noise level (DANL) and reveal the low level signal.
(1) Reduce input attenuation.
(2) Decrease the resolution bandwidth.
(3) Use a pre-amplifier.
Today we will show you how to use an Agilent N9322C Basic Spectrum Analyzer (BSA) to easily
detect low-level signals.
To illustrate let us say we want to view a signal with a frequency at 1 GHz and amplitude
at -80 dBm.
Set the center frequency at 1 GHz.
Set the span at 5 MHz.
Usually, we need to manually adjust the reference level attenuator, then turn on the pre-amplifier,
to view such a low-level signal. Press: "Amplitude", "Reference Level",
"Minus 50", "dBm." Press: "Attenuation", "Zero", "dB."
Press: "Pre-amp", "On" to turn-on the pre-amplifier.
To further reduce the noise level of the analyzer you can narrow the resolution bandwidth (RBW).
The RBW settings affect the level of internal noise without affecting the amplitude level
of the input signal. Decreasing the RBW by a decade reduces the noise floor by 10 dB.
Press: "BW." Toggle the RBW setting to "Manual,"
Decrease the resolution bandwidth using the "Arrow" key.
As you can see, the -80 dBm CW signal appears more clearly, because the noise level of the
analyzer is reduced.
You may prefer to use the shortcut available on the N9322C BSA Spectrum Analyzer, which
combines all of the amplitude related adjustment into one button push.
Simply push "Amplitude" and "High Sensitivity." You have instantly set the N9322C Basic Spectrum
Analyzer sensitivity measurement status with -50 dBm reference level, 0 dB attenuator,
and pre-amplifier enabled.
After that, you only need to narrow the resolution bandwidth to fine-tune or lower DANL on the
spectrum analyzer.
The N9322C's higher sensitivity shortcut is just one of several features designed to
help you gain higher test efficiency and capture more opportunities.
We invite you to visit the N9322C BSA website at www.agilent.com/find/N9322C for more information.
Thank you for watching.