Rational Waves

Low-Cost Spectrum Analyzer Software

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RF Analyzers Supported by Rational Waves Software

Rational Waves -- RF Spectrum Analyzer Software

Device Compatibility Tester

We do not sell RF spectrum analyzers -- only the Rational Waves software. The low-cost RF spectrum analyzers supported by Rational Waves are among the most popular devices and are suitable for use in a broad array of RF-related applications.

If you already own one of these RF spectrum analyzers and are unsure whether it will work with Rational Waves, then we strongly advise that you check out the Rational Waves Device Compatibility Tester. If your RF analyzer works with the Device Compatibility Tester program then it will also work with Rational Waves.

Download Compatibility Tester

Rational Waves Device Compatility Tester

RF Spectrum Analyzers

If you do not yet own an RF spectrum analyzer or are considering purchasing a new one, then consider the list below. These are all fine instruments and will perform well for most RF applications. The difference in prices reflect supported frequency range, frequency bandwidth and refresh rate. When choosing an RF spectrum analyzer, its supported frequency range is most important and must match with your RF application -- whereas frequency bandwidth and refresh rate are less important. If you require a laboratory grade analyzer, then it's best to go with one of the Signal Hound models.

RF Explorer Expand

Frequency Range: 50 kHz to 6100 MHz (depending on the model)
Cost (approximate): $129 - $365 MHz
Distributors: RF Explorer World-Wide Distributors

RTLSDR (RTL2832U) Expand

Frequency Range (Rafael Micro R820T Tuner) : 24 - 1766 MHz
Cost (approximate): $30 USD
Distributor (recommended): Nooelec

ADALM-Pluto Expand

Frequency Range: 325 - 3800 MHz (stock) / 70 - 6000 MHz (modified)
Cost (approximate): $149 USD
Distributors (recommended):
Digi-Key
Mouser
Arrow
Amazon

Customizing the Pluto configuration to the AD9364 to expand the frequency range from 325-3800 MHz to 70-6000 MHz:
RTL-SDR Blog
Analog Devices Wiki

HackRF Expand

Frequency Range: 1 MHz to 6 GHz
Cost (approximate): $330 USD
Distributor (recommended): Nooelec

Signal Hound Expand

Model: USB-SA44B
Frequency Range: 1 Hz to 4.4 GHz
Cost (approximate): $1005 USD
Distributors: Signal Hound USB-SA44B

Model: USB-SA124B
Frequency Range: 100 kHz to 12.4 GHz
Cost (approximate): $2175 USD
Distributors: Signal Hound USB-SA124B

Model: BB60C
Frequency Range: 9 kHz to 6 GHz
Cost (approximate): $2995 USD
Distributors: Signal Hound-BB60C

Each RF spectrum analyzer supports a specific frequency range. Depending on your RF application, a particular RF spectrum analyzer may be more suitable than another -- the image below can serve as a guide. The RF Explorer and Signal Hound brands include a variety of different models -- where each model differs in terms of frequency coverage and cost.

Rational Waves RF Spectrum Analyzer Software

Let’s get started on your wireless project…

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