New Analyzer Helps 3G Engineers

Tektronix, Inc announced its new wireless communications analyzers that combine vector signal analysis and spectrum analysis in one instrument to improve engineers' view and enable next-generation (2.5G and 3G) wireless design and manufacturing.

Inset on left is the new Tektronix Spectrum Analyser.

As next-generation networks begin to roll out, mobile devices must be available to ensure end-user adoption and revenue realization. As a result, RF engineers working on 2.5G and 3G designs are pressured more than ever to get devices to market in order to meet financial and subscriber expectations. The design challenge of integrating more complex 2.5G and 3G components into small mobile devices presents a demand for flexible, affordable test tools that provide fast, accurate measurements. To answer this need, Tektronix' new Wireless Communications Analyzer 200A Series (WCA200A Series) unite one-button measurements, versatile troubleshooting capabilities and spectrum analysis in one instrument, a combination not found today in similar analyzers within the same price/performance category.

"Wireless designers and manufacturers are looking to test and measurement vendors to provide faster, more affordable and more accurate design tools to meet increasing pressure to deliver 2.5G and 3G devices," said Mark Kulper, General Manager, Wireless Product Line, Tektronix. "Tektronix' new WCA200A Series exceeds engineers' expectations by delivering superior versatility and troubleshooting capabilities, such as multi-domain analysis and frequency mask trigger in one-box, at an affordable price."

WCA200A Delivers Breakthrough Versatility In Its Class, Improves Designers' View

Tektronix' new WCA200A Series exceeds engineers' characterization and troubleshooting expectations with measurements capabilities not typically found in this class of analyzer. Features such as simultaneous multi-domain analysis, frequency mask trigger, unmatched memory capture (up to 10 seconds of WCDMA signals), and unsurpassed Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio (ACLR) measurement speeds put the WCA200A Series at the top of its class, enabling RF engineers to meet critical deadlines. These versatile features are in addition to the standard one-button measurements found in existing vector signal analyzers. Moreover, the advanced analysis and triggering capabilities allow developers to improve their view by capturing random spurious signals and analyzing them in frequency, time and modulation domains without having to make multiple measurements.

Everyday Tasks Made Surprisingly Simple

Engineers have a variety of standard measurements to make for each new wireless device that comes across their bench. They need their test tool to address basic requirements and to detect errors quickly. Not only is the WCA200A Series equipped to perform everyday RF characterization and verification faster and easier due to its versatile features and speed, it also allows engineers to analyze WCDMA and GSM handovers by analyzing WCDMA compressed mode, unique in any class of communications analyzer.

About the WCA200A Series

The WCA200A Series includes the WCA230A (3GHz) and the WCA280A (8GHz). The analyzers provide a unique combination of flexibility, speed and accuracy for developers of wireless components, systems and networks. In the past, design engineers have been required to choose either a standards-oriented vector signal analyzer with limited spectrum analysis capability or a spectrum analyzer with limited demodulation capabilities requiring a great deal of set up time and operator knowledge. The WCA200A Series debuts superior versatility, providing spectrum analysis, flexible demodulation and in-depth troubleshooting at a mid-range price.