Like network analyzers, oscilloscopes, and signal generators, spectrum analyzers are also essential RF testing and measurement instruments. Among all RF testing instruments, spectrum analyzers are the most fully functional and can be fully applicable to laboratory equipment, integrated into larger RF testing components, or used as part of mobile RF signal/interference capture applications, or even as portable equipment for wireless and mobile signal tower technicians. These devices are crucial for identifying and locating interference signals, as well as measuring RF components and systems

Composition and Application: The spectrum analyzer is essentially a highly specialized receiver that can be adjusted for different configurations. Therefore, it has a wide range of applications and can be used to detect and measure continuous wave (CW) and modulate RF/microwave signals. Usually, the sensing hardware and related functional items of a spectrum analyzer are combined with software and control systems to achieve more powerful signal information collection and measurement. For example, certain spectrum analyzers can be used to measure dynamic range, peak power, average power, peak to average power ratio (PAPR), and other performance measurements required in characterizing RF devices. The most common and familiar interface for users when using a spectrum analyzer is the standard frequency and signal power curve. Some spectrum analyzers can also plot the frequency and signal power over a period of time, known as a waterfall plot, which is very useful for analyzing the transient signal characteristics during that time period. Other common spectrum analyzer interfaces also include modulation/demodulation diagrams, some of which can directly display IQ data from input signals

Classification spectrum analyzer, also known as signal analyzer, mainly includes swept spectrum analyzer (SSA), real-time spectrum analyzer (RTSA), and vector spectrum analyzer (VSA). Sweep frequency spectrum analyzer (SSA) uses tuning elements to scan along the desired frequency range. The old-fashioned sweep frequency spectrum analyzer (SSA) uses analog tuning, filtering, and display components during operation, while modern sweep frequency spectrum analyzer (SSA) digitizes the input signal and uses Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) method to convert the time-domain input signal into the frequency domain. Real time spectrum analyzer (RTSA) is similar to sweep frequency spectrum analyzer (SSA) in that it uses superimposed FFT during scanning, which can capture signals with very short duration. Real time spectrum analyzer (RTSA) can also be used to continuously capture signal information within a set frequency range until reaching the limit of real-time bandwidth Although the majority of the hardware required to ensure the normal operation of a spectrum analyzer is preset in the device (for PC driven spectrum analyzers, most are configured between the analyzer and the PC), additional RF components are still required to connect the analyzer to the DUT, antenna, and transmission line. This type of RF component typically includes a coaxial adapter, which is used to connect the coaxial input port of the spectrum analyzer to any device or coaxial cable. In addition, portable antennas are also essential in interference capture or signal search applications, and they are also very useful for external testing. Finally, when processing signal levels that exceed the threshold of the spectrum analyzer, it is necessary to use an RF attenuator, as the built-in attenuator of the spectrum analyzer has too limited attenuation for external input signals