Tektronix RSA3303B Spectrum Analyzer

The Tektronix RSA3303B is a portable real-time spectrum analyzer that captures continuous, intermittent, and random RF signals from DC to 3 GHz. It combines vector signal analyzer, spectrum analyzer, and real-time spectrum analyzer functions with integrated discover-trigger-capture-analyze capabilities.

Digital Phosphor Spectrum (DPX) processing renders over 48,000 spectrum measurements per second with color-graded intensity mapping based on signal occurrence frequency, enabling rapid identification of transients and signal stability assessment. The instrument employs Frequency Mask Trigger (FMT) for event-based capture of transient RF signals, along with power level and external trigger inputs. Trigger position is settable from 0 to 100% of total acquisition length, with minimum event duration of 40 µs at maximum bandwidth and position uncertainty of ±2 frames (±80 µs at 15 MHz span).

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: DC to 3 GHz
• Real-Time Acquisition Bandwidth: 15 MHz max (RF signals with Start Frequency ≥ 20 MHz); 20 MHz max (baseband signals); 10 MHz max (with differential IQ inputs)
• A/D Converter: 51.2 MS/s, 14-bit
• Acquisition Memory: 64 MB standard (16.4 MSamples); 256 MB optional (65.6 MSamples)
• DPX Processing Rate: >48,000 spectrum measurements/second
• Trigger Bandwidth Range: 100 Hz to 15 MHz
• Trigger Position Display Timing Uncertainty: ±2 sample points (power and external trigger)

– Key Features

• Full pre-selection and image-free operation across all capture bandwidths
• Acquisition lengths up to 2.56 seconds at 15 MHz bandwidth without requiring multiple acquisitions
• Capture spans up to 15 MHz into memory for comprehensive time-domain analysis
• Settable trigger position with comprehensive trigger mode options (free run, single, continuous)
• Color-graded DPX display for immediate visualization of time-varying RF signal behavior

– Typical Applications

• Laboratory signal characterization and analysis
• Production line RF signal verification
• Transient detection and event-based signal capture
• Frequency domain fault identification

– Compatibility & Integration

The RSA3303B operates as a standalone instrument with external trigger input capability, supporting integration into test sequences requiring event-based acquisition and real-time signal analysis.