Top Spectrum Analyzers for 5G Signal Analysis

Introduction : Spectrum analyzers are essential for testing and optimizing 5G networks, ensuring efficient signal performance. This guide reviews the best spectrum analyzers for 5G applications. The list includes Keysight, EXFO, Anritsu, Rohse & Schwarz, Calnex, Inno instrument and Giga Electronics.

5G NR refers to Fifth Generation New Radio standard. The 5G NR specifications are defined in 38 series release 16 and beyond by 3GPP group. The frequency bands are mainly categorized into below 6 GHz and above 6 GHz in mmwave region. The spectrum can be licensed, Shared or unlicensed bands. In phase-1, 5G NR operates in non standalone mode (NSA) where as in phase-2, 5G NR operates in standalone (SA) mode. In NSA mode, control operations are taken care by 4G LTE eNB where as data transfer takes place in 5G mode. In SA mode, both control and data exchange is taken care by 5G network alone.

5G NR Measurements

There are two main components in a 5G NR (New Radio) network viz. UE (User Equipment) and BS (Base Station). 5G measurements cover both transmitter and receiver measurements. Spectrum analyzer is used for measurement of transmitter part where as signal generator is used for measurement of receiver part of UE/BS.

Various transmitter and receiver measurements are performed on UE and BS in order to certify them as per conformance documents or specifications. In addition, other measurements include inter-operability tests, stability related measurements, inter-RAT measurements, drive test measurements, near field/far field measurements and so on.

5G UE and BS transmitter test cases include transmit power, outpur power dynamics, transmission signal quality, RF output emissions, spurious emissions, occupied bandwidth, ACLR etc.

5G NR Spectrum Analyzer Manufacturers

Following table mentions list of 5G NR Spectrum Analyzer Manufacturers.

Manufacturers	Description
Keysight	Model : N9914A (FieldFox Handheld RF Analyzer) Features : Supports measurements for frequencies up to 6.5 GHz
EXFO	Model : 5GPro Spectrum Analyzer Features : • Spectrum testing in FR1 (450 MHz to 6 GHz) and FR2 (24.25 GHz to 40 GHz) RF bands • Tests CPRI, eCPRI and ethernet up to 100G • Demodulates 5G NR signal which validates OTA (Over The Air) performance of cell sites. • Application offers BF matrics and analyze up to 64 beams, displays 12 strongest beams with their power values.
Anritsu	• Models : MS2850A • It supports frequency range from 9 KHz to 32/44.5 GHz and bandwidth of 1 GHz • It captures 5G NR signal data which can be further analyzed by 5G NR signal analysis tools or applications.
Calnex Solutions plc.	Model : Sentinel Features : 5G NR OTA measurements, 5G NR sync measurements and so on. Website : https://www.calnexsol.com/ Email : troy.bergstrom@calnexsol.com
Rohde & Schwarz	Model : R&S FSW Signal and spectrum analyzer Features : 8.3 GHz analysis bandwidth for 5G NR modulated signals, 800 MHz real time analysis bandwidth supports frequency range from 2 Hz to 90 GHz Refer 5G OTA testing by R&S >>.
INNO Instrument , Incheon, South Korea	Models : 5G SMART, 5G PRO
GIGA Electronics Ltd, Bulgaria	Model : E8900A 5G NR (New radio) Handheld Spectrum Analyzer Features : Supports frequencies from 9 kHz to 9 GHz. Demodulation analysis of FDD-LTE or TDD-LTE signals including cell ID, channel power and other parameters.

Conclusion

Choosing the right spectrum analyzer enhances 5G signal analysis and network optimization. Leading manufacturers continue to develop advanced solutions for better accuracy.
➨Refer 5G OTA test and measurement companies and 5G measurements on UE and BS >>.