Aim-TTi PSA4 Series Introduction: Handheld Real-Time Spectrum Analyzers
Aim-TTi PSA Series 4 Spectrum Analyzers. Handheld models up to 2.7 GHz, FFT Sweep mode, Real-Time acquisition (up to 10.8 MHz), and advanced Waterfall and Heatmap displays.
PSA Series 4 family introduces a significant leap in performance and operation compared to classic handheld analyzers, keeping the highly appreciated ultra-lightweight design (just 0.58 kg) intact for engineers engaged in field measurements. Available with bandwidths up to 1.3 GHz and 2.7 GHz, these devices boast a wide dynamic range, an extremely low displayed average noise level (DANL) of -131 dBm, and a typical VSWR of 1.4:1, making them ideal for EMC pre-compliance checks, antenna alignment, and interference hunting.
Series 4 Model Comparison
| Feature / Function |
PSA1304 |
PSA2704 |
PSA2704RT |
| Operating Frequency (Conventional Sweep / Demodulation) |
1 MHz to 1300 MHz |
1 MHz to 2700 MHz |
1 MHz to 2700 MHz |
| Operating Frequency (FFT Sweep) |
10 MHz to 1300 MHz |
10 MHz to 2700 MHz |
10 MHz to 2700 MHz |
| Operating Frequency (Real Time) |
N/A |
N/A |
10 MHz to 2700 MHz |
| Real-Time Bandwidth |
N/A |
N/A |
10.8 MHz |
| Minimum Detectable Signal Duration (100% POI) |
N/A |
N/A |
37.5 µs |
| Integrated FFT Sweep |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
*Note: The release of the PSA1304 and PSA2704 models is expected by 2026. Currently, only the top-of-the-range PSA2704RT model is available.
Advanced Features and Operating Modes
Connections, Interfaces, and Firmware Options
Equipped with a 4.3" resistive touchscreen TFT display, the analyzer supports extended trace storage on a USB flash drive (up to 32GB) and a Mini USB interface for PC connection via the Test Bridge PSA software. The PSA2704RT model already includes the advanced Frequency Mask triggering system as standard.
✓ COMPATIBILITY NOTE: Automatic Data Logging features, Amplitude limits with comparator, Waveform demodulation, and Compensation/Offset tools (including table management and 75 Ω matching) are not native, but require the purchase of the optional U03.
Fast Sweep FFT
The entire series integrates FFT spectral analysis alongside the traditional Swept mode. This enables a much faster "full-span" coverage, measuring a 100 MHz span in ~70 ms compared to the classic 13.5 s of traditional models. The acquisition can be optimized using six different window functions (Blackman Harris, Flattop, Gaussian, Rectangular, Hanning, Kaiser).
Real-Time Mode (RT Model Only)
The PSA2704RT model introduces true real-time acquisition for spans up to 10.8 MHz. Performing up to 80,000 FFT computations per second, the instrument captures intermittent transient events, guaranteeing a 100% "Probability of Intercept" (POI) for signals lasting as short as 37.5 µs, and can detect brief signals down to 62.5 ns.
Never Miss an Event
Unlike classic Swept analyzers, which are subject to "blind time" between scans, continuous sampling in Real-Time mode ensures you never miss intermittent signals or very fast frequency hops, simplifying the search for interference or hidden transmitters.
Heatmap Density Display
The Heatmap display utilizes a 256-level color depth to track the number of "hits" (frequency and level) accumulated over time. The "hottest" areas show the most persistent signals, with a configurable accumulation duration from 100 µs to over 24 hours.
Spectrogram (Waterfall) Display
The Waterfall display generates a color-coded log of amplitude over a time axis with a maximum historical depth of 2048 traces, offering a clear overview of frequency drifts and the dynamic behavior of the spectrum over the long term.
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