Comparing Spectrum Analyzers: GPSA vs RTSA

Application Note Overview

The spectrum analyzer and the oscilloscope are two of the most used electronic devices for the measurement of electric signals. Whilst oscilloscopes present the final information in the time domain on a screen, spectrum analyzers display the intensity (vertical axis) of electric signal information in the frequency domain (horizontal axis). 

This application note has presented the advantages and disadvantages of both analyzers as well as a guide to select a spectrum analyzer. Additionally, RTSAs possess the significant advantage of being able to switch to GPSA mode, thereby enabling them to cover wide bandwidths and to work with programs that are native to GPSAs. The primary disadvantage of RTSAs is the restricted bandwidth for dynamic operation. However, with the progress of powerful data processing devices, this range is gradually expanding. Consequently, the selection of an RTSA is always recommended, as the price difference compared to GPSAs is often reasonable, especially when considering the significant functional advantages.