The Marconi IFR Aeroflex 3500 is a portable radio communications test set that integrates RF measurement, signal generation, modulation analysis, and antenna diagnostics into a single field-deployable instrument. Built for ruggedness and portability, it handles direct power measurements to 20 W or up to 150–200 W with external attenuation, making it suitable for transmitter testing, receiver characterization, cable fault location, and comprehensive radio system maintenance across both benchtop and field environments.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Coverage
• Operating range: 2 MHz to 1 GHz
• Spectrum analyzer: 10 MHz to 2.7 GHz
• Built-in generator and receiver: Up to 1 GHz
Power Measurement
• Direct measurement: Up to 20 W without attenuator
• With external attenuator: Up to 150 W or 200 W
Spectrum Analysis
• Noise floor: Less than −136 dBm (10 kHz span)
• Span width: 10 kHz to 5 MHz
• Resolution bandwidth: As narrow as 19 Hz
• FFT-based analysis with marker functionality for power and offset frequency measurements
Modulation Analysis (Model 3500A)
• Supported types: AM, FM, PM, DSB-AM, FM Stereo
• Measurements: Modulation fidelity, deviation, frequency error
• Internal modulation generators with configurable DCS/DCS invert for squelch testing
Transmitter Testing
• RF power, frequency error, and modulation accuracy measurement
Receiver Testing
• Sensitivity and audio performance characterization with RSSI meter
Audio (Model 3500A)
• Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Distortion: Less than 0.2%
• Output power: 1 W
Cable and Antenna Testing
• VSWR and Distance To Fault (DTF) measurements for isolation of cable and antenna faults
Oscilloscope (Optional)
• Displays external or demodulated audio signals
• Time base: 50 mS/Div to 0.1 Sec/Div with 2 markers
– Digital Radio Support (Model 3500A)
Optional modules support P25, DMR, DPMR, and NXDN™ standards with P25 option enabling test of mobiles, handhelds, repeaters, and base stations with modulation fidelity, deviation, and frequency error measurements.
