 - A spectrum analyzer is a laboratory instrument that displays signal amplitude (strength) as it varies by signal frequency. The frequency appears on the horizontal axis, and the amplitude is displayed on the vertical axis. To the casual observer, a spectrum analyzer looks like an oscilloscope and, in fact, some lab instruments can function either as oscilloscopes or spectrum analyzers. A spectrum analyzer can be used to determine whether or not a wireless transmitter is working according to federally defined standards for purity of emissions. Output signals at frequencies other than the intended communications frequency appear as vertical lines (pips) on the display. A spectrum analyzer can also be used to determine, by direct observation, the bandwidth of a digital or analog signal. A spectrum analyzer interface is a device that can be connected to a wireless receiver or a personal computer to allow visual detection and analysis of electromagnetic signals over a defined band of frequencies. This is called panoramic reception and it can be used to determine the frequencies of sources of interference to wireless networking equipment, such as Wi-Fi and wireless routers. >> Stay up to date by receiving the latest IT term daily. Simply check "Word of the Day" to register.
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11 Apr 2007
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