| #46: Basics of amplitude and distortion measurements on a scope and spectrum analyzer W2AEW |
| #46: Basics of amplitude and distortion measurements on a scope and spectrum analyzer This video (by request) takes a look at making signal amplitude and distortion measurements on an oscilloscope and a spectrum analyzer. It runs through a quick example of measuring the signal amplitude on the scope in volts peak-to-peak, then converting this measurement to dBm and verifying that this is what is measured on the spectrum analyzer. The importance of maintaining a common load impedance for these measurements is discussed. The second half of the video discusses distortion measurements, and what you can and cannot see on a scope compared to a spectrum analyzer. It shows that while a scope is really good at making amplitude measurements (and can be used to measure frequency as shown in a previous video), it isn't necessarily the best tool to measure distortion at levels that are required to meet FCC Part 97 Emission requirements for amateur radio use. https://youtu.be/XHA4c82msqo |