The model number on the Tektronix MDO3104 oscilloscope denotes that it is a 3000-Series Mixed-Domain Oscilloscope. The mixed domain moniker means it is capable of displaying a waveform simultaneously in the time domain and in the frequency domain. The time domain is more familiar, the way we envision a sine wave when amplitude is plotted […]
Test and Measurement Tips
Hi-rez 350-MHz DSOs sport 12-bit resolution
The new SIGLENT SDS2000X HD Series High-Resolution Digital Storage Oscilloscopes feature 2GSa/sec 12-bit A/D converters with an extremely low 70 μVrms noise floor front end to provide a signal analysis tool with over 16 times the resolution of ordinary 8-bit oscilloscopes. This is ideal for examining small variations on large signals. The SDS2000X HD series […]
Better UI, larger display for high-performance oscilloscopes
The new generation of R&S RTP high-performance oscilloscopes combine high-class signal integrity measurements with the fastest possible acquisition for real-time analysis. The new models come with a bigger and brighter 13.3-in full HD touchscreen and a fully redesigned front panel. Users can take advantage of the crisp 16:9 screen format, which displays waveforms while allowing […]
Is there such a thing as a catenary antenna?
A conic section is formed by the intersection of a plane that cuts though a cone, usually with the circle at the top and the hyperbola at the bottom. Between them lie the ellipse and the parabola. The parabola has distinctive properties when rotated in space to make a concave surface. The parabola can be […]
Spectrum analyzer software supports definition of multiple RF systems
Five significant feature additions have been made to the SpectraScopeRT Windows-based spectrum analyzer application software. SpectraScopeRT allows for integrated operational control of both the downconverter receiver and the digitizer for signal capture, analysis and real-time streaming of signal recordings, all without requiring any programming. The new feature upgrades are designed to expand and enhance the […]
Automotive data logger captures multiple data streams simultaneously
The X2E XORAYA Z7 Automotive Datalogger can record data from multiple different automotive bus systems simultaneously. All data is logged with a precise, central timestamp with 100-nsec resolution and either saved on the internal SSD or transferred to an external computer system via Ethernet. Optionally, the logged data can be stored on a XORAYA external […]
The ups and downs of bad DACs
A digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is more prone than an analog/digital converter to signal degradation. DACs are complex devices requiring precisely matched components. For this reason, with notable exceptions, DACs are implemented as mixed-signal ICs based on MOSFET technology. Discrete component DACs are found in radar systems and high-speed test equipment including digital sampling oscilloscopes. Digital […]
3U development platform handles SOSA 1.0 and CMOSS designs
A 12-slot, 3U Development Platform is aligned to SOSA 1.0 and CMOSS and features high-speed RF and optical I/O connectivity on a number of key SOSA profiles while supporting both I/O-intensive and compute-intensive processor slots, two switch slots and one PNT slot as part of the test solution. Prior to its official release, the development […]
Radar target generation system cuts down on open-air range tests
The PXI Vector Signal Transceiver (VTS) Radar Target Generation (RTG) system unlocks closed-loop, low-latency, real-time radar test capabilities. The new PXI VST allows engineers to identify and isolate issues before costly open-air range tests, increasing user confidence in radar system performance with accurately calibrated radio frequency (RF) test capability. Today, radar test engineers must test […]
Portable sensor signal simulator/calibrator features Wi-Fi connectivity
The 1520 Signal Simulator and Calibrator offers market-leading Wi-Fi operation, ergonomic design and advanced visualization features and up to 10 hours of battery life. The NIST-traceable signal source is designed to provide laboratory-grade precision to in-the-field simulation of a range of sensors. The 1520 user interface makes it easy to simulate a wide variety of […]