Spectrum Analyzer Basics / Tutorial, and the Tektronix 1401A

I picked up a Tek 1401A Spectrum Analyzer at a hamfest recently, and it inspired me to do a video or two. This one presents a generic block diagram and tutorial of what a conventional swept spectrum analyzer is and how it works. It also shows a quick demo of the Tektronix 1401A Spectrum Analyzer Module from the mid-70's.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Tektronix
• Spectrum
• Analyzer
• basics
• tutorial
• demo
• 1401A
• W2AEW
• oscilloscope
• scope
• how
• to
• use
• block
• diagram
• frequency
• detector
• RBW
• filter
• IF
• intermediate
• mixer
• LO
• local
• oscillator
• sweep
• ramp
• XY

[spectralcodec]

Great video, do you know if it is possible to use this type of spectrum analyzer to listen to radio transmissions (AM, SSB, etc) as well (perhaps with some added circuitry)?

[w2aew]

@spectralcodec Some spectrum analyzers can do AM or sometimes FM - but they often need an additional option installed to include the necessary detector and audio output circuitry. SSB is a different story as this would require some form of product detector - I don't know of many spectrum analyzers that have that as an option

[jipidibipity]

Are you teacher?

[w2aew]

@jipidibipity No, I'm not a teacher, I just play one on YouTube - LOL!

[raccoonnyc]

Your information is invaluable. Thanks. Maybe someday you will do a tutorial on how to buy a used spectrum analyzer?

Tom, ak2b

[w2aew]

@raccoonnyc That's a good question Tom! It's a tough one to answer. It's always best to be able to try before you buy of course. Front end mixers are the most commonly damaged items.

[veganath]

@w2aew You taught me something, in my books that a teacher...thx

[TranceTips]

"oh wow, oh wow, oh wow"

this is the perfect tutorial, although all I needed it for was the sound, and sound is the exact same thing. thanks again.

[TranceTips]

OMFG! THNKS SO MUCH!

[nlimchua]

impressive presentation! I have an HP141-T with the 8555A RF module which I got as a gift from a retiree. I've played around with it some but would like to learn more about it. Also have a comb generator that came with it....

[spectralcodec]

Thanks, my HP8565A has an IF output I assume would be the best place to start. Also has a "1st LO output" which is interesting.