Tektronix RSA3408B Real-Time Spectrum Analyzer

Overview

The Tektronix RSA3408B is a high-performance real-time spectrum analyzer from the RSA3000B series, offering DC to 8 GHz frequency coverage with 36 MHz real-time capture bandwidth. The instrument features the revolutionary DPX Live RF spectrum display that provides an intuitive, color-graded view of signal transients changing over time in the frequency domain, enabling immediate discovery of design issues and transient anomalies that conventional analyzers miss.

The RSA3408B combines spectrum analysis, vector signal analysis, and real-time discovery capabilities in a single instrument. Its frequency-domain triggering capability and time-correlated multidomain analysis enable rapid identification of root causes when troubleshooting RF designs and systems.

Key Features

• DC to 8 GHz frequency range with fully preselected, image-free operation
• 36 MHz maximum capture bandwidth capturing all signals within measurement span
• DPX Live RF spectrum display with >48,000 spectrum measurements per second
• Frequency Mask Trigger for event-based capture of transient RF signals
• Full 1.28 s acquisition length at 36 MHz bandwidth for long-duration analysis
• Time-correlated multidomain analysis connecting Time, Frequency, Phase, and Amplitude domains
• Power measurements including ACLR, Power vs. Time, CCDF, and PDF statistics
• Pulse width and duty cycle measurements with pulse-to-pulse phase correlation
• Analog demodulation including AM, FM, and PM with audio distortion analysis
• 8.4 inch user interface with keyboard and mouse
• Multiple interface ports: GPIB, LAN, USB(2)
• Optional deep memory, IQ inputs, digital IQ output, and modulation analysis options

Applications

• Design validation and troubleshooting for wireless communications systems
• Transient signal discovery and characterization
• Real-time RF monitoring and interference analysis
• Emissions compliance and pre-compliance testing
• Signal integrity analysis in complex communications systems
• Research and development of RF/microwave systems

Optional Capabilities

• Deep memory option (65.5 MSample) with enhanced Frequency Mask Trigger
• IQ and differential IQ input options (40 MHz bandwidth)
• Digital IQ output for external processing (up to 36 MHz bandwidth)
• Advanced modulation analysis, RFID, and signal source options
• Standards-specific analysis: GSM/EDGE, CDMA 1X, TD-SCDMA, WLAN 802.11, W-CDMA/HSDPA/HSUPA
• Audio distortion analysis for baseband, AM, and FM signals
• Removable 40 GB hard drive for data portability