Build FM NRSC masks for SIGLENT SSA3000X/SVA1000Xs using a Python script
February 13, 2020
Many broadcast applications require monitoring a transmitter and observing the output amplitude vs. frequency. For FM radio applications, a common mask is defined by the National Radio Systems Committee (NRSC) and is commonly referred to as the FM NRSC mask. A very helpful SIGLENT owner, Dan from Alabama Broadcast Services, LLC, built an FM NRSC Mask … Continued
Programming Example: SSA/SVA analyzer screen image capture using Python over LAN
January 14, 2020
Here is a brief code example written in Python 3.4 that uses a socket to pull a display image (screenshot) from a SIGLENT SSA/SVA analyzer via LAN and save it to the local drive of the controlling computer. NOTE: This program saves the picture/display image file in the same directory that the .py file is … Continued
How do I pick the right spectrum analyzer for my application?
August 6, 2019
Introduction The SIGLENT SSA3000X, SSA3000X Plus and SVA1000X products are based on a similar swept superheterodyne spectrum analyzer platform and have very similar starting prices. There are quite a few similarities, but also a few differences that could affect the end results for particular applications. The table below compares the major specifications and the comparable … Continued
DIY Spectrum Analyzer Input Protection
May 24, 2019
Spectrum analyzers like the SIGLENT SSA3000X and SVA1000X series are extremely useful instruments that can provide invaluable insight into broadcast signal performance, transmitter troubleshooting, and interference as well as RF device characterization and EMC testing. But, like other spectrum analyzers, they are very sensitive and can be damaged easily, if the proper precautions are not … Continued
Programming Example: List connected VISA compatible resources using PyVISA
February 19, 2019
PyVISA is a software library that enables Python applications to communicate with resources (typically instruments) connected to a controlling computer using different buses, including: GPIB, RS-232, LAN, and USB. This example scans and lists the available resources. It requires PyVISA to be installed (see the PyVISA documentation for more information) *** #Example that scans a … Continued
Verification of a working remote communications connection using NI – MAX
November 19, 2018
Automating a test can dramatically increase the productivity, throughput, and accuracy of a process. Automating a setup involves connecting a computer to the test instrumentation using a standard communications bus like USB or LAN and then utilizing code entered via a software layer (like LabVIEW, .NET, Python, etc..) to sequence the specific instrument commands and … Continued
Programming Example: Using VXI11 (LXI) and Python for LAN control without sockets
October 8, 2018
In an effort to meet the demands of remote monitoring and control, modern test instrumentation is leveraging more communications busses and than ever before. Each type of bus can also have numerous layers that can be utilized for specific advantages. The VXI bus and subsequent software drivers form a convenient software API that can make remote control … Continued
Attenuator verification using a spectrum analyzer with a tracking generator
September 11, 2018
Attenuators are elements of an electrical circuit that are used to decrease the amount of power delivered to the next stage of the circuit. An ideal attenuator would have a flat frequency response, that is, it would decrease the amplitude of all input signals equally, regardless of the frequency. In this note, we are going to … Continued
Electromagnetic Compliance: Measuring Conducted Noise with a Tekbox LISN
July 4, 2018
Our friends at Tekbox have a nice app note that provides details on performing conducted noise measurements using a SIGLENT SSA3000X Spectrum Analyzer: Tekbox Conducted Noise with a LISN Note
Electromagnetic Compliance: Measuring Radiated Noise with a Tekbox TEM
July 4, 2018
Here is a helpful note from Tekbox on measuring radiated noise using a TEM and SSA3000X Spectrum Analyzer: Tekbox Radiated Noise with a TEM