Advantest R3131 Series Spectrum Analyzers
2 models with full specifications from Advantest.
The Advantest R3131 series consists of the Advantest R3131 and Advantest R3131A, which are 3 GHz personal spectrum analyzers designed for RF measurement, maintenance, and laboratory analysis. Built on a shared core architecture, both units cover a frequency range from 9 kHz to 3 GHz, making them suitable for digital radio testing and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) measurements. This guide details the specifications, shared features, and operational differences between these two models to assist engineers in choosing the right instrument for their specific workspace and accuracy requirements.
- Frequency Range
- 9 kHz to 3 GHz
- Frequency Span Range
- 50 kHz to 3 GHz and Zero Span
- Phase Noise
- <= -100 dBc/Hz (at 20 kHz offset)
- Display Size
- 5.7-inch
Models in this series
Shared Platform Capabilities
The Advantest R3131 and Advantest R3131A share a fundamental 3 GHz platform. Both instruments deliver a frequency span range of 50 kHz to 3 GHz, alongside a Zero Span mode. They provide identical phase noise performance of <= -100 dBc/Hz at a 20 kHz offset, helping ensure reliable resolution for close-in signals.
Additionally, both models offer a system displayed average noise level (DANL) of -113 dBm. This performance is specified at 1 GHz for the R3131 and across 1 MHz to 3 GHz for the R3131A, under test conditions of 1 kHz RBW, 10 Hz VBW, and 0 dB attenuation. Both models are rated to operate reliably in ambient temperatures from 0 to +50 °C.
Display and User Interface Comparison
A primary difference between the two models is the display technology and peripheral support:
- Display: The Advantest R3131 features a 5.7-inch monochrome backlit LCD. In contrast, the Advantest R3131A is equipped with a 5.7-inch color TFT LCD with a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, which improves the readability of spectral traces and measurement markers.
- Connectivity: Both instruments provide GPIB, RS-232, and Centronics printer interfaces. However, the Advantest R3131A adds a PS/2 keyboard interface and an integrated 3.5-inch floppy disk drive, expanding local storage and text-entry capabilities during field or laboratory setups.
Stability, RF Protection, and Physical Profiles
The instruments vary in reference frequency performance and physical dimensions:
- Reference Stability: The R3131 has a reference frequency temperature stability of ±5 ppm. The R3131A improves this stability to ±2 x 10^-6 (approximately ±2 ppm) over the same 0 °C to +50 °C operating range.
- RF Protection: The R3131 provides a maximum safe RF input level of +30 dBm (with an input attenuation of 10 dB or higher). The R3131A has a maximum safe input level of +20 dBm (also requiring at least 10 dB of attenuation). Both units feature a maximum safe DC input limit of 0 V.
- Chassis Differences: The R3131 measures 350 mm × 177 mm × 420 mm and requires a 15-minute warm-up. The R3131A is wider but shallower, measuring 424 mm × 177 mm × 300 mm, has a weight of 9 kg or less, and requires a 20-minute warm-up.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the primary differences in the displays between the R3131 and R3131A?
- The Advantest R3131 utilizes a 5.7-inch monochrome backlit LCD, whereas the Advantest R3131A features a 5.7-inch color TFT LCD with a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels.
- What is the maximum safe input level for these models?
- The Advantest R3131 supports a maximum safe RF input level of +30 dBm, while the Advantest R3131A has a maximum safe RF input level of +20 dBm. Both instruments require at least 10 dB of input attenuation for these ratings and have a maximum DC input voltage of 0 V.
- Does either model feature integrated removable storage?
- Yes, the Advantest R3131A includes a built-in 3.5-inch floppy disk drive and a PS/2 keyboard interface, which are not present on the standard Advantest R3131.