[Boatanchors] Spectrum analyzers

[Jim Liles]

Spectrum analyzer
Been reading the conversations regarding Spectrum Analyzers.  The HP 8568B was the high end Spectrum analyzer in it's time.  It is by no means portable but it has an infinite number of functions that I won't try to pass along.  Google it and read the romance sheet, you will be impressed.  They sell for around $1400.00 and cover from 100Hz to 2.3GHz and are readily available.  The sensitivity is -135Db.  The 8566B covers 100Hz to 23GHz but costs more.  Might cost a bit more than a plug-in but you can be sure with it's ease of use and functionality, you will not look for another.  Sounds like a peddler to me.  Used Tektronix scopes from the 535 to the 2465B and the HP 141T with plug in's as well as the 8568B and 8566B for years and love both logo's.  Won't talk down to any spectrum analyzer as I have found them to be the most useful tool in the shop.  I lean away from plug in's --- I eventually damage something when swapping units.  BTW, these guys work great doubling as a band scope --- use it occasionally looking for AM activity and open space during contests.  Lastly, we have used the 8568B to diagnose numerous regeneration loops, VFO FMing, and wire routing problems in the Hallicrafters SR* series.  Kindest regards Jim K9AXN