Rohde & Schwarz has introduced an entirely new handheld spectrum analyzer from its Value Instruments Division - the R&S Spectrum Rider. This light weight and long battery life analyzer offers solid RF performance and high accuracy for measurements in the field and in the lab. It has a frequency range from 5 kHz to 2 GHz, which can be extended up to 4 GHz with a key code. Its large format capacitive touchscreen 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 versatile R&S Spectrum Rider from Rohde & Schwarz assists users during RF transmitter installation and maintenance and also supports measurement tasks in RF development labs and in service. With its high sensitivity of –160 dBm and measurement accuracy of typically 0.5 dB between 10 MHz and 3 GHz, 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 5 kHz to 2 GHz, which can be expanded to 3 GHz or 4 GHz to support applications that require higher frequencies such as measuring radio signals above 2 GHz or signals above 3 GHz in TD LTE bands.
Rohde & Schwarz has optimized the R&S Spectrum Rider for mobile use. The battery of the lightweight unit (2.5 kg) 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 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 GB 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 ideal for field technicians and lab engineers, and can be used in industries such as aerospace and defense, wireless communications, broadcasting, spectrum regulators and education.
