Anritsu Corp.'s U.S. subsidiary Anritsu Co. has made its foray into the high-performance signal analyzer market with the introduction of a new Signature model MS2781A, a signal analyzer with performance, capabilities and simplicity that redefines the high-end signal analyzer space. It provides the spectrum and signal analysis tools engineers require to design and manufacture advanced RF and microwave communications systems, including WLAN, 3G and 4G.

Signature has been developed with a new and advanced architecture that provides digital modulation analysis over the 100 Hz to 8 GHz frequency range. In addition, the architecture provides an optional 30 MHz resolution bandwidth for capturing, measuring and analyzing wide modulation bandwidth signals. The architecture also provides an open Windows environment — the first time available in a signal analyzer, according to Anritsu — allowing popular simulation and analysis tools to be easily integrated into the analyzer. The Windows XP environment, with its familiar drop-down menus and tool bars, also creates an instrument that is easy to use.

Unlike existing signal analyzers that force users to trade off either spectrum analysis or vector signal analysis capability, the MS2781A delivers performance in both areas. This capability is attributed to a leading-edge architecture using a 9.5 GHz to 17.5 GHz synthesized first local oscillator (LO) and 9.5 GHz IF. This fundamental mixing approach allows the entire 100 Hz to 8 GHz frequency range to be measured in one sweep, without band switching or preselection.

Because of this approach, Signature has improved sensitivity, intermodulation distortion, and better dynamic range. It offers third-order intercept (TOI) of +23 dBm, displayed average noise level (DANL) of < -147 dBm, and typical amplitude accuracy of <0.65 dB over the entire frequency range. For digital modulation analysis, Signature, optionally, has measurements for error vector magnitude (EVM), carrier leakage, and I/Q imbalance, all without a separate computer and post processing. Typically, the signal analyzer has > 80 dB WCDMA adjacent-channel power ratio (ACPR) and 2% EVM. A 30 MHz IF bandwidth option is also available (see the figure). As it is designed in an open Windows XP environment, it can facilitate the exchange of simulated and measured data necessary to accurately analyze today's complex digital modulation. Users can easily design new or proprietary digital modulations by adding the MATLAB Connectivity option. The option allows live update viewing of MATLAB processed results with measurements. No other signal analyzer offers this capability.

Easy operation extends beyond the display. The front-panel keys are backlit when activated, and they are clearly and logically arranged. The signal analyzer has a DVD-ROM and CD-RW drive and two USB interfaces on the front panel. An additional USB port, as well as GPIB and Ethernet interfaces, are on the rear panel to provide more flexibility.

For more information, please visit www.us.anritsu.com.