Hand-held instrument packs in field test demands

Rohde & Schwarz has expanded its handheld R&S Cale Rider ZPH cable and antenna analyser portfolio with a two-port model that supports network infrastructure manufacturers and network operators even more efficiently in installing and maintaining the growing number of mobile communications antenna systems.

Thanks to its two-port architecture, the new R&S Cable Rider ZPH model now provides transmission measurements (S21) and offers spectrum analyser and tracking generator functionality.

The handheld instrument features high sensitivity with a displayed average noise level (DANL) typically better than –146dBm up to 3GHz, turning the R&S Cable Rider ZPH into a powerful spectrum analyser for RF diagnostics in the field.

The optional R&S ZPH-B22 preamplifier improves sensitivity even further, to a DANL of typically –163dBm. This is especially useful during interference analysis as it enables the detection of weak signals.

The new tracking generator functionality makes scalar transmission measurements possible, e.g. frequency response measurements on RF filters. The internal bias source adds further functionality, such as for performing measurements on tower mounted amplifiers (TMA). In addition, the R&S Cable Rider ZPH can use its unique independent signal source to operate as a continuous wave (CW) signal generator.

Like previous models, the R&S Cable Rider ZPH offers excellent measurement speed of 0.3 ms per point and the fastest boot and warm-up time on the market. Moreover, there is no need to calibrate the analyser before use, saving time on site.

The instrument's wizard function simplifies and speeds up measurements. Field technicians only need to execute the test sequences as shown on the display. The wizard guides them through measurements in easy-to-follow steps. This reduces test time during installation and maintenance.

The R&S Cable Rider ZPH is ideal for use in the field. It weighs just 2.5 kilograms, and thanks to its battery life of up to nine hours, the instrument can handle a full day's work without interruption. The analyser also has a large colour touchscreen for intuitive operation with smartphone-like gestures, plus extra-large keys that allow easy handling even when the user wears heavy-duty work gloves.

The R&S Cable Rider ZPH base unit covers a frequency range of up to 3 GHz. Extending the frequency range to 4GHz is straightforward with the R&S ZPH-B4 option, which is enabled via a keycode.