[Test-Equipment] Spectrum Analyzer

[Ron Youvan]

   On 12/22/2015 12:15 PM, Brian Heise wrote:

>                I have just acquired a Tektronix 2712 and have not owned
> an SA up to now.   My question is this what precautions / equipment do
> you all take to protect your analyzers?   Also, what tools do you use to
> assist you in using the SA and the sources for those tools.   The follow
> up question is this : What tips and tricks would you all like to share
> with a new owner?   My initial primary uses will be  making NRSC
> measurements and receiver tuning.   I am also open to finding new (and
> cool) uses for it as well.

> Thank you in advance for your responses.

   Used one for years, absolutely loved it.

   The attenuator and the first mixer can easily damaged by excessive level.

   In broadcast we knew (labeled) the power level at every test port es
reflectometer so there was not problem.  I recommend that you acquire a
-30 dB attenuator of 20 to 30 Watts dissipation and look at your signal 
through it if you are not sure of the power level and always start with
the least sensitive setting to begin with.

   If you do not completely understand logarithms and deci Bells
study up on them.  (1/10 of a Bell)

   Stick a "rubber duckie" on it and tune to 100 MHz and study the FM 
signals and all of the controls.
-- 
   Ron  KA4INM - Youvan's corollary:
                 Every action results in unwanted side effects.