The Aeroflex PN9500 is an 18 GHz spectrum analyzer built on a modular architecture for RF and microwave signal analysis. It delivers phase noise measurement, jitter analysis, and real-time spectrum monitoring in a single instrument. The modular design supports frequency coverage from 2 MHz to 140 GHz with appropriate module configuration, while the core unit covers DC to 18 GHz for wideband monitoring. Beyond spectrum analysis, the PN9500 integrates a frequency counter, digital oscilloscope, and power meter.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Coverage
• 2 MHz to 140 GHz (modular configuration)
• DC to 18 GHz (wideband spectrum monitoring)
Resolution Bandwidth
• Minimum: 100 Hz
• Maximum: 100 kHz
• Real-time FFT bandwidth: 30 MHz
Amplitude Performance
• Maximum input level: +20 dBm
• 1 dB gain compression: +9 dBm (high-level mixer), +3 dBm (standard mixer)
• Third Order Intercept (TOI): +18 dBm typical (high-level mixer)
Phase Noise
• Measurement range: up to 500 MHz offset from carrier
• At 1 GHz: −105 dBc/Hz at 100 Hz offset, −105 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz offset
Jitter Analysis
• True peak-to-peak jitter with selectable mask filters
• Dynamic range: 0.001 ps RMS on 10 GHz clock buffer
Spectrum Monitoring
• Real-time FFT with wide and narrow span modes
• Measurements: power level, power variations, ACPR, harmonic distortion
• Pulsed spectrum analysis with 30 MHz maximum span
Speed & Processing
• 1 kHz to 40 MHz sweep in less than 30 seconds (10 averages)
Input/Electrical
• Input impedance: 50 Ω
• Internal 10 MHz time base
Physical
• Compact, portable design
• Weight: 40 lbs
– Key Features
• Modular plug-in system supporting jitter detector, lock control, low noise amplifier, phase/AM detector, RF synthesizer, added noise, and ECL interface modules
• Windows-based graphical user interface with file management and math tools
• Digital Spectrum Monitoring (DSM) software with text and image export capabilities
• RS232 connectivity and SCPI code compatibility
– Typical Applications
• Phase noise characterization of oscillators and synthesizers
• Jitter measurement on high-speed clock signals
• Real-time spectrum monitoring and harmonic distortion analysis
• Pulsed signal spectral response analysis
– Compatibility & Integration
The PN9500 inherits the modular architecture of the PN9000 product line, enabling field upgrades and custom configurations. Optional modules extend measurement capability across the RF and microwave spectrum.
