Tektronix RSA6000 Series Real-Time Spectrum Analyzers
2 models with full specifications from Tektronix.
The Tektronix RSA6000 Series integrates high-performance spectrum analysis, wideband vector signal analysis, and real-time trigger-capture-analyze functionality. These instruments are built to assist RF engineers and technical professionals in characterizing wideband signals, detecting transient interference, and performing complex modulation analysis. Operating on a Windows XP Professional platform, the series features a 10.4-inch XGA color touch screen, a standard real-time capture bandwidth of 40 MHz, and an optional upgrade path to 110 MHz. This platform provides the depth of measurement necessary for advanced communications, radar design, and spectral management.
- Base Acquisition Bandwidth
- 40 MHz
- Maximum Optional Bandwidth
- 110 MHz
- Display Size
- 10.4-inch (264 mm) touch screen
- Operating System
- Windows XP Professional
Models in this series
| Model | Type | Display | Frequency Mask Trigger (FMT) Bandwidth | Frequency Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RSA6114A | Tektronix | 10.4-inch (264 mm) touch screen, XGA (1024 × 768) | 40 MHz (standard), 110 MHz (with Opt. 110) | 9 kHz to 14 GHz |
| RSA6120A | Tektronix | 10.4 in (264 mm) color touch-screen LCD, 1024 × 768 (XGA) | Up to 110 MHz (option dependent) | 9 kHz to 20 GHz |
Frequency Range and Model Selection
The primary differentiator within the RSA6000 Series is the frequency coverage, which dictates the target applications for each unit:
- Tektronix RSA6114A: Supports a frequency range of 9 kHz to 14 GHz. It is suitable for general-purpose microwave, cellular communications, and standard RF systems engineering.
- Tektronix RSA6120A: Offers an extended frequency range from 9 kHz to 20 GHz. This model is configured to address higher-frequency challenges, such as Ku-band radar and communication applications.
Both units share a common physical architecture and user interface, ensuring consistency in operation and measurement techniques.
Real-Time Capture and DPX Technology
The RSA6000 Series utilizes DPX spectrum display technology to reveal transient and short-duration RF signals. Standard configurations of both the RSA6114A and RSA6120A offer a 40 MHz real-time acquisition bandwidth. This can be upgraded to 110 MHz via Option 110.
For the RSA6120A, the Swept DPX mode achieves a sweep speed of 1 GHz sweep in less than 1 second at a 10 kHz resolution bandwidth (RBW). The analyzer also supports a resolution bandwidth range of 0.1 Hz to 8 MHz for standard spectrum analysis. The frequency reference accuracy is rated at ±1 × 10^-6, with an identical temperature stability and annual aging rate.
Measurement Capabilities and Upgrades
The series supports several specialized options to tailor measurement capabilities to specific project demands:
- Digital Modulation and Pulse Analysis: Option 21 enables general-purpose digital modulation analysis, while Option 20 provides an advanced measurement suite for pulse parameter analysis.
- Settling Time and Phase Noise: Option 12 allows for frequency and phase settling time measurements. Option 11 provides phase noise and jitter measurements.
- Audio and Preamplifiers: Option 10 adds support for standard AM/FM/PM audio analysis. For low-level signal work, Option 01 adds an internal preamplifier (available up to 6.2 GHz on the RSA6114A). On the RSA6120A, enabling the preamplifier typically improves the Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL) at 2 GHz from -151 dBm/Hz to -167 dBm/Hz.
Hardware Interfaces and Physical Characteristics
The analyzers are equipped with standard interfaces, including gigabit LAN (10/100/1000 Base-T) for remote management and data transfer. The RSA6120A also includes GPIB (IEEE-488.2), USB 2.0, VGA, and connections for TekConnect probes.
Physical storage for the RSA6120A is provided via a removable hard disk drive with a capacity of 160 GB or greater, which assists in secure-facility work where data security is required. For environmental durability, the RSA6114A is certified to MIL-PRF-28800F Class 3 shock and vibration compliance.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the standard calibration interval for these analyzers?
- The recommended calibration cycle for the RSA6000 Series, as specified for the RSA6120A, is 1 year.
- Does the series support physical probe connections?
- Yes, the RSA6120A includes dedicated interfaces for TekConnect probes, facilitating direct circuit-level RF measurements.
- What is the warm-up time required for stable operation?
- The RSA6120A specifies a warm-up time of 20 minutes to reach its rated accuracy parameters.