The latest R&S FPC entry-level spectrum analyzer combines three key RF test instruments

Rohde & Schwarz has extended its R&S FPC spectrum analyzer family, adding the FPC1500. This compact instrument combines a spectrum analyzer, a one-port vector network analyzer and a CW signal generator. It is ideal for education, for applications in service and repair shops and for professional hobbyists.

The FPC1500 is the world’s first spectrum analyzer to include a one-port vector network analyzer with internal VSWR bridge, an independent CW signal generator and a tracking generator. Despite its budget-friendly concept, the FPC1500 is designed to the same quality standards as high-end Rohde & Schwarz instruments, providing solid RF performance and a comprehensive future-ready feature set.

The base model of the FPC1500 has a frequency range of 5 kHz to 1 GHz. Keycode options unlock higher frequency ranges up to 3 GHz or enable other measurement application features when required. Upgrades are activated immediately when the keycodes are entered, and there is no need for upgrade calibration. For applications requiring a high sensitivity to characterize extremely weak signals, the FPC1500 offers a low noise floor level of –150 dBm (typ.), which can be further extended to –165 dBm (typ.) through an optional, keycode-activated preamplifier.