A SPECTRUM ANALYZER LABORATORY PROJECT

A laboratory project in which the students build a simple DC to 1 MHz spectrum analyzer using only an oscilloscope, function generator, and a custom-built mixer/IF section is described. After assembling the spe ctrum analyzer, the students use it to explore the spectra of a number of different waveforms including amplitude- and frequency-modulated s ine waves. The laboratory helps the students develop a feel for the me aning and significance of the mathematics they have learned relating t he time- and frequency-domain representations of signals (i.e., the Fo urier series, and Fourier and Laplace transforms). In addition, the la boratory introduces the students to mixing (i.e., heterodyning) and im proves their understanding of their test equipment and its possible us es. The laboratory is suitable for use in a typical junior-level signa ls and systems course, a junior-level circuits course, a communication course, or a measurement course.