The Anritsu ME453K Microwave System Analyzer measures IF and baseband signal characteristics in terrestrial radio relay links and satellite communication systems. It delivers group delay, differential phase and gain, modulator/demodulator linearity, frequency deviation, AM/PM conversion, and return loss measurements across selectable IF bands and baseband frequencies. The instrument combines dual-trace CRT display with LED readouts, automatic receiver configuration, signal averaging for low C/N operation, and threshold extension for INTELSAT equipment analysis. Built for link adjustment, construction, maintenance, and R&D applications across FDM-FM and digital microwave systems.
Technical Specifications
• IF Band: 70 MHz and 140 MHz (selectable)
• Baseband Frequencies: Eight selectable frequencies via pushbutton; three low frequencies are model-dependent (K, L, or M designations); Option 05 adds 55.6 kHz or 27.8 kHz
• Measurement Parameters: Group delay, modulator/demodulator linearity, differential phase and gain, IF and BB amplitude, IF and BB band return loss, frequency deviation, spectrum, AM/PM conversion coefficient, DC characteristics, IF/BB power, gain, and loss
• Display: Dual-trace CRT with alphanumeric parameter display; 4-digit LED display for transmitter settings; 5-digit LED display (ME538 series)
• Sweep Capability: Baseband-to-baseband amplitude response with automatic sweep width reduction for modulated sidebands and carrier sweep modulation compensation
• Signal Processing: Automatic receiver tuning (deviation, IF level, BB frequency, level); automatic calibration and attenuation; signal averaging for noise reduction; signal subtraction for system component elimination
• Advanced Functions: Threshold extension for low C/N group delay measurement; automatic CRT calibration and ranging; scale intensity adjustment for photography
• Power Requirements: AC 100–127 V or 200–254 V, 48–66 Hz; approximately 260 VA
• IF Output: −10 dBm fixed output at IF frequency for return loss measurement
– Key Features
• Dual-trace CRT with automatic scaling and alphanumeric result overlay
• Automatic receiver settings eliminate manual tuning iterations
• Signal averaging reduces noise in satellite link measurements
• Threshold extension optimizes group delay measurement on low C/N systems
• Wide IF band selection (70 and 140 MHz) accommodates diverse link standards
– Typical Applications
• Terrestrial radio relay link characterization and adjustment
• Satellite communication system analysis (INTELSAT compatible)
• FDM-FM and digital microwave link commissioning
• Modulator and demodulator performance validation
• Maintenance and fault diagnosis of active RF chains
– Compatibility & Integration
The ME453K interfaces via IF output for return loss measurements and accepts AC mains power across 100–254 V range, suitable for field deployment and laboratory environments.
