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RF test equipment can be considered to be any RF module or device that is designed or used to measure signal level, signal quality, or interference within the RF frequency band. Most of this type of Radio Frequency test equipment is used by trained professionals (Engineering people) that have been trained on electronics theory, and have learned how to use these complicated devices. These RF testing devices include the oscilloscope and the spectrum analyzer. Both devices are very expensive, typically starting at $1,000 for a basic oscilloscope and about $12,000 for a basic spectrum analyzer. The oscilloscope can display amplitude of a waveform based upon the wavelength of the frequency being measured (Engineering training needed). The spectrum analyzer is a more sophisticated device that measures amplitude and interference based upon the carrier frequency. Though somewhat easier to use for these measurements, its cost is much higher. There are a few RF testing devices, however, that most anyone For satellite antenna installers, there's a simple, battery-powered device called a squawker. A squawker tunes L-Band (1 Ghz range) and can tell an installer the relative signal strength of a satellite signal based upon an audible tone. The higher the tone, the stronger the signal. It cannot tell you whether you're pointed at the correct satellite, whether you've tuned into a side lobe, correct polarization of the feed assembly, or other critical factors for proper dish installation. It is, however, a helpful tool that costs about $100. |
RF Test Equipment
with a general concept of RF theory can operate. For VHF signals, a Signal Level Meter (about $900) will measure relative signal levels at any RF frequency that is tuned. If the broadcast includes audio, it also has a built-in speaker for the user to listen to and can detect interference in the audio program. This device cannot tell you whether two or more signals are present at the desired frequency.
