The Marconi IFR Aeroflex 6841A combines scalar and spectrum analysis in a single instrument, delivering integrated RF/microwave measurement and signal generation from 1 MHz to 4.2 GHz. The scalar analyzer operates to 3 GHz with three inputs for network characterization, insertion loss, return loss, and transmission line fault location. The spectrum analyzer extends to 4.2 GHz with integrated tracking generator capability. A synthesized source with 1 Hz frequency resolution, low phase noise, and harmonic performance better than -55 dBc serves dual roles: swept source for scalar measurements, tracking generator, offset source for network analysis, and CW output for local oscillator substitution. Scalar dynamic range exceeds 80 dB with tuned input, supported by EEPROM-corrected detectors for high measurement accuracy.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Range (Scalar): 1 MHz to 3 GHz
Frequency Range (Spectrum): 1 MHz to 4.2 GHz
Source Specifications
• Frequency resolution: 1 Hz (synthesized)
• Phase noise: Low (unspecified limit)
• Harmonic performance: Better than −55 dBc
• Harmonic filtering: Internal
• Power sweep: Available for gain compression testing
• CW mode: Available
Scalar Analyzer
• Inputs: Three
• Dynamic range: Greater than 80 dB (with tuned input)
• Measurement types: Network characterization, insertion loss, return loss, transmission line fault location
• Detector accuracy: EEPROM corrected
Spectrum Analyzer
• Dynamic range: High
• Measurement capability: Spurious and harmonic output of oscillators
Optional Capabilities
• Frequency modulation (FM)
• Group delay and amplitude response simultaneous measurement and display
Interfaces
• GPIB: IEEE 488.2 compliant
• RS-232: Available
• Parallel printer ports: Included
• Command set: SCPI-compatible
• Data transfer: Up to 401 points over GPIB in <50 ms; individual points in ~10 ms
Performance
• Sweep time: Less than 1.5 seconds
Power
• AC input: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
• DC operation: External power option available
Physical
• Dimensions: 426 mm × 228 mm × 267 mm (16.8″ × 9″ × 10.5″)
• Weight: 8.2 kg (18 lbs)
• Display: 8.4-inch color TFT LCD
– Key Features
• Integrated tracking generator with spectrum analyzer
• Three independent scalar inputs for flexible component testing
• Fast measurement sweeps under 1.5 seconds
• High harmonic suppression for improved scalar accuracy
• GPIB and RS-232 control with SCPI command compatibility
• Portable form factor: 8.2 kg
– Typical Applications
• RF and microwave component characterization
• Communication system maintenance and testing
• Transmission line fault location
• Amplifier gain compression analysis via power sweep
• Oscillator spurious and harmonic output measurement
• Network analysis with offset tracking source capability
– Compatibility & Integration
IEEE 488.2 GPIB interface enables integration into automated test systems. RS-232 and parallel printer connectivity support legacy bench environments. SCPI-compatible command set simplifies programming across multi-instrument setups. Fast data transfer—401 points in <50 ms—supports real-time measurement streaming.
