Agilent has introduced a new RF analyzer that should be of interest to RF Report readers. The FieldFox handheld RF analyzer offers network analyzer and spectrum analyzer functions from 2 MHz to 4 GHz or 6 GHz (depending on the FieldFox model) and power measurement functions from 9 KHz to 24 GHz, using Agilent U2000 series USB power sensors.
The FieldFox features a dynamic range of 96 dB with -148 dBm sensitivity in the spectrum analysis mode. The RF analyzer provides insertion loss, return loss and "distance to fault" displays. An optional network analyzer mode provides S11, S11 phase, S21 magnitude and a Smith chart display.
The FieldFox has a water-resistant chassis, keypad and case. A specially designed connector bay protects RF connectors from damage during drops or other impacts. There are no vents or fans in the case, making it ideal for dusty environments. It includes a LAN port and two USB ports for data transfer. An external reference input allows more accurate frequency measurements. There is also an SD flash card slot for data storage.
Agilent is targeting this instrument at the digital wireless communications technician, but it seems to me the software in the unit could be easily modified to add features for DTV applications. The Agilent FieldFox RF analyzer, product number N9912A, is available worldwide at a starting price of $7,600.
