Spectrum Analyzer for the Ka-Band From 10 Hz to 44 GHz Now in the Mid-Range

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Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG

FAULHABER Drive Systems

With the R&S FPL1044 spectrum analyzer, Rohde & Schwarz is bringing the Ka-band to a mid-range instrument. At the same time, the 40 MHz real-time spectrum analysis (RTSA) option for the entire FPL product family is being launched.

With the R&S FPL1044 and a new 40 MHz real-time option, Rohde & Schwarz is expanding its mid-range portfolio and lowering the entry barrier for high-frequency measurements up to Ka-band. The instrument is aimed at developers in the aerospace industry and component manufacturers.

The manufacturer promises a frequency range of 10 Hz to 44 GHz for the measuring device, making measurements in the critical Ka band worthwhile for significantly more users.

Breakthrough in the Ka-Band for the Middle Class

The FPL1044 expands the FPL product family with a high-frequency flagship that is unrivaled in its price segment. While previous mid-range spectrum analyzers typically reached their limit at 26.5 GHz, the FPL1044 opens the way to demanding applications in the Ka-band between 26.5 and 44 GHz.

Particularly noteworthy is the DC coupling option, which is exclusively available on the FPL1044 and extends the measurable frequency range up to 10 Hz. This function enables measurements from very low to very high frequencies in one device for the first time in the FPL family. The device is characterized by a compact design and a standard 0.11 in input connector for RF measurements.

Key technical data in detail:

• Frequency range: 10 Hz to 44 GHz
• Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL): typ. -163 dBm (with preamplifier, 10 MHz to 2 GHz)
• SSB phase noise: typ. -108 dBc (1 Hz) at 10 kHz offset (1 GHz carrier)
• Third-Order Intercept (TOI): typ. > +20 dBm
• Level measurement uncertainty: < 0.3 dB (at 100 MHz, 68–86 °F)
• Display: 10.1-inch touchscreen with gesture control
• Real-time analysis for the entire FPL family

Parallel to the FPL1044, Rohde & Schwarz is introducing the 40 MHz real-time spectrum analysis option R&S FPL1-K41R. It is compatible with all frequency variants of the FPL family and also upgrades existing systems with powerful RTSA functions. The option enables a 40 MHz analysis bandwidth for real-time spectrum analysis and achieves a probability of intercept (POI) of 100 percent for events with a minimum duration of just 4.2 µs.

For the FPL1044, this means complete 40 MHz real-time frequency analysis up to 44 GHz. The seamless RF spectrum display enables continuous signal monitoring and the reliable detection of transient signals, which is particularly important for the detection of even the shortest events and unwanted signals.

Market Positioning And Competitive Advantages

While high-end spectrum analyzers with 44 GHz coverage are traditionally priced in the six-figure euro range, the device brings these capabilities to the affordable mid-range. The FPL family thus seamlessly covers the range from 5 kHz to 44 GHz, with the new FPL1044 being the only model that even enables measurements from 10 Hz.

This positioning is underlined by the low self-noise level of typically -163 dBm with preamplifier and the low SSB phase noise of -108 dBc, which also enables demanding measurement tasks. At the same time, the device combines desktop functions with the mobility of a handheld analyzer and offers optional battery operation for up to three hours of field measurements.

Fields of Application in the Ka-Band

The frequency range from 26.5 to 44 GHz is becoming increasingly important in several key areas. In aerospace, satellite communication with Ka-band transponders, radar and navigation systems as well as earth observation satellites dominate. Defense technology uses these frequencies for military radar systems and radio reconnaissance.

For component manufacturers, this opens up testing possibilities for RF filters, amplifiers and traveling wave tubes, while research and development benefit from radio astronomy and material testing through to 5G/6G technologies in the mmWave range. Its central importance is also evident in service, repair and maintenance work in the field, where the portable nature of the FPL1044 is particularly beneficial.

Democratization of High-Frequency Measurement Technology

The R&S FPL1044 with the RTSA option represents a step in the democratization of high-frequency measurement technology. Development departments that previously had to rely on expensive high-end equipment or external service providers now have access to professional 44 GHz spectrum analysis at mid-range prices.

The combination of extended frequency ranges, real-time analysis capabilities and proven FPL quality makes the device an attractive option for companies looking to expand their RF measurement capabilities cost-effectively. In particular, the backwards compatibility of the RTSA option allows existing customers to protect their investment and expand incrementally .(heh)

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