Aimed at wireless design, R&D, and production test engineers, the Aeroflex 3280 Series spectrum analyzers now offers digital demodulation for the analysis of 802.11a, b and g wireless networks. Digital demodulation in the 3280 series spectrum analyzers allows engineers to analyze the transmitter characteristics of a wireless device.

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Digital demodulation in the 3280 Series is easily operated in one of two modes. Full-frequency mode links the rear panel IF output at 421.4 MHz to the demodulator input, allowing the user to demodulate signals over the full frequency range of the spectrum analyzer (3 GHz, 13.2 GHz or 26.5 GHz). Dual-channel mode links directly from the instrument's front panel or optionally via a rear panel connector to create a unique dual-channel instrument. The frequency range for the direct input of the demodulator is 300 MHz to 3 GHz.

Although, the 3280 Series' digital demodulation hardware option does not include direct I&Q outputs, users who require it can access a direct digital I&Q output in streaming serial format by adding the optional low-voltage data signal (LVDS) output cable. This optional cable is fitted internally between the demodulator LVDS output and the spectrum analyzer rear panel.
3280 Series spectrum analyzers: accurate, flexible and easy-to-use

The 3280 series has an extremely high level of accuracy, ±0.15 dB up to 3 GHz. Other performance features include an excellent local oscillator (LO) phase noise <-115 dBm/Hz, 1GHz/ 10 kHz offset and +18 dBm third order intermodulation performance. Digital intermediate frequency (IF) offers resolution bandwidths from 5 MHz to 1 Hz. The Windows XP operating system, internal hard drive and built-in CD-ROM make the 3280 Series extremely easy to use and allow for a wide range of interfaces, including LAN access, USB interface, RS-232, IEEE 488 (GPIB) and VGA outputs. Centronics parallel ports are provided for printer, mouse and keyboard connectivity. In addition, it offefs a large 10.4 inch TFT LCD display with ample viewing area, so data can be easily seen-even in split screen mode, or with multiple windows open.

Delivery for the 3280 series is 10 weeks upon receipt of order. Highly configurable, a starting configuration for the 3280 is priced at approximately U.S. $23,000. Digital demodulation hardware (Option 2) is currently available for all existing 3280 series spectrum analyzers. One software measurement suite is available free of charge with a hardware purchase. The software provides a graphical user interface (GUI) within the spectrum analyzer menus to display the required suite of user selectable parameters. A WLAN software suite supporting 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g is available now and additional measurement suite options will be coming soon, according to Aeroflex.