TECHNICAL OVERVIEW

FieldFox Handheld Analyzers

4/6.5/9/10/14/18/26.5/32/44/50/54 GHz
Models

N9912C N9950B N9933B/C N9960B

N9913B/C N9951B N9934B/C N9961B
N9914B/C N9952B N9935B/C N9962B
N9915B/C N9953B N9936B N9963B
N9916B N9937B
N9917B N9938B
N9918B

Introduction
The Keysight FieldFox handheld analyzers can withstand your toughest working conditions with a
ruggedized yet light weight and portable battery powered design for making measurements for RF
devices like cables, antennas, filters, amplifiers, and signal/spectrum analysis. Create your specialized
handheld analyzer solution by selecting FieldFox options and features to address cable and antenna
test (CAT) spectrum analysis (SA) or vector network analysis (VNA) real time spectrum analyzer and
over the air digital demodulation analysis required for your application. Additionally, the newly
introduced option of an embedded pulse generator transforms the FieldFox into a handheld signal
generator capable of operating up to 54 GHz. The FieldFox analyzers are always ready to make RF
measurements, ensuring every operating mode is flexible enough to meet the needs of novices and
experts alike. The newly introduced C-Series analyzer, N9912C in particular, makes the FieldFox a
truly software defined instrument.

This technical overview provides details of the standard FieldFox handheld analyzer features as well
as selectable options for addressing your specific application needs.
Table of Contents

FieldFox Handheld Analyzers ....................................................................................................................... 3

Designed for You and the Work You Do Everyday ....................................................................................... 3

Choose the FieldFox that Meets Your Needs ............................................................................................... 8

Spectrum Analyzer ...................................................................................................................................... 15

Vector Network Analyzer............................................................................................................................. 28

Built-In Pulse Generator .............................................................................................................................. 30

USB Power Sensor Support........................................................................................................................ 31

Software and System Features ................................................................................................................... 32

Carry Precision with You ............................................................................................................................. 33

2
FieldFox Handheld Analyzers
Why choose FieldFox?
• A truly software-defined analyzer, the newly introduced N9912C RF analyzer in particular, offers the
maximum flexibility and the least initial investment to meet rapidly changing market requirements
• Ideal 5G deployment and field-testing tool with 120 MHz real-time bandwidth and over-the-air (OTA)
measurements
• Ability for 5G, satellite and radar operators to make true RF coverage measurements, up to 54 GHz
and beyond, and beamforming verification with phased array antenna support
• Simplified field signal monitoring with wideband capture and recording of fully corrected IQ data
• Highly efficient radar and EW systems diagnostics with spectrum analysis, full 2-port VNA, power
meter, pulse and noise figure measurements and results that correlate with high-performance bench
top instruments
• Durable handheld analyzers that can withstand your toughest working conditions
• The built-in pulse signal generator, operational up to 54 GHz, enhances the versatility of FieldFox,
expanding its applications from signal analysis to signal generation like never before

Designed for You and the Work You Do Everyday

Carry FieldFox wherever you need to go
• Kit friendly at 7.35 lb. (3.34 kg)
• Large buttons are easy to operate, even when wearing gloves
• Field swappable battery lasts up to 4 hours
• Non-slip rubber grip securely fits in your hands and won’t slide off the hood of your vehicle
• Vertical “portrait” orientation makes it easy to hold and operate at the same time

Field-proof usability for better answers in less time

• Bright, low-reflection display and backlit keys enable easy viewing in direct sunlight or darkness
• Intuitively designed user interface for your workflow, enabling measurements in fewer key presses
• One-button measurements simplify complex setups and ensure quick, accurate results with confidence
• Calibration Wizard guides user to ensure simple and accurate calibrations
• Standard three-year warranty ensures field confidence, especially in harsh environments
• 5-, 7- and 10-year warranties are also available

3
Designed for your toughest working conditions
• Rugged enough to meet MIL-specs
• Completely sealed instrument enclosure provides measurement stability in harsh environments,
-10 to +55 ºC (14 to 131 ºF)
• Specially designed to protect instrument from damage due to drops, shock or other external impacts
• Water-resistant chassis, keypad and case withstand wide temperature ranges and salty, humid
environments
• Meets MIL-PRF-28800F Class 2 requirements
• Type tested and meets MIL-STD-810G, Method 511.5, Procedure I requirements for operation in
explosive environments
• Type tested and meets IEC/EN 60529 requirements for ingress protection

Easily operate FieldFox, even when Read measurements in direct Count on extended instrument
wearing gloves, through the large sunlight with the transflective reliability with Field- Fox’s dust-free
front panel keys display design: no vents or conventional
fans.

4
“Combination” analyzers RF and microwave signal analyzer
Base: Cable and antenna analyzer Base: Spectrum analyzer
Up to 120 MHz bandwidth
Built-in power meter
Pulse measurements
Channel scanner
GPS receiver
Real-time spectrum analyzer
PathWave 89600 VSA software connection
Keysight Spectrum Management Software connection
Surveyor 4D software connection
IQ analyzer/IQ data streaming
Noise figure
Over-the-Air (OTA) LTE FDD/TDD and 5G
Indoor and outdoor mapping
EMF measurements (general and 5G)
EMI measurements
Pulse generator 1
Interference finding (manual mode)
Directional finding - TDOA
Full-band tracking generator Spectrum analyzer
Full-band preamplifier Vector network analyzer
USB power sensor TDR cable measurements
Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) Spectrum Analyzer (SA)
Frequency range 3/30/300 kHz to 54 GHz 2 Frequency range 3/5 kHz to 54 GHz
System dynamic range 117 dB Spur-free dynamic range >104 dB at 2.4 GHz
Trace noise 0.001 dB Amplitude accuracy 0.2 dB
Directivity 39 dB Phase noise -117 dBc/Hz
Output power 9 dBm DANL (preamp on) -163 dBm
Calibrations CalReady, SOLT, WG, CW/tracking generator 5/30/300 kHz to 54 GHz
Unknown thru, Response
Cal, Ecal
Input related spur -80 dBm
TOI +13 dBm @ 2.4 GHz

For details of the selectable options and their features of these high-level configurations and more, see
the following topics.

• Cable and Antenna Analyzer

• RTSA, digital demodulation and noise figure
• Spectrum Analyzer
• Vector Network Analyzer
• Pulse Signal Generator
• USB Power Sensor Support
• Software and System Features

1
N9912C excluded.
2
Under VNA, 300 kHz starting frequency is for N995xB; under SA, tracking generator starting frequency of 300 kHz is for
N995xB or N996xB. All C models starts at 3 kHz.

5
 Pick up FieldFox for its ergonomics

Portrait design and

large buttons for
easy operation –
even with gloves
on

Anti-glare
6.5-inch
Convenient LCD
side strap display with
makes it LED
easy to hold backlight
and carry

11.5 inch
(292 mm)

Task-driven
keys are
grouped to
easily perform Backlit
field keypad
measurements

Dedicated
marker keys for
quick marker
function access

7.4 inch
(188 mm)

6
 …and depend on its durability and convenience Type-N (f)

External reference Port 2

Port 1 and external trigger
input
For N991xB/C**, N993xB/C**,
3.5 mm (m)* and N9938B without Option 100
2.4 mm (m)

For N9950/51/52/60/61/62B.
N9953/63B (54 GHz) are with 1.85 mm (m)
* For N9918B, and N9938B (with Option 100) only
Connector bay protects RF Get precise location using Quick connect ** For N991xC/3xC, Input safty labels show:
connectors the built-in GPS receiver shoulder strap clips “+25 dBm RF, 40 VDC Max”

Right side LAN port for data

transfer and SCPI SD flash card for data USB ports for easy data storage
programming storage and SCPI programming
Keep going with
field-swappable
batteries that last
up to 4.5 hours

Wideband IF output External reference and Gasketed doors protect

external trigger output ports from moisture

Left side

Built-in DC
supply for
powering external
bias-tees,
probes, and
active devices

7
Choose the FieldFox that Meets Your Needs
Microwave (Combination) analyzer
Signal analyzer (SA)

4 GHz 6.5 GHz 9 or 10 GHz 14 GHz 18 GHz 26.5 GHz 32 GHz 44 GHz 50 GHz 54 GHz
N9953B
N9963B
N9952B
N9962B
N9951B
N9961B
N9950B
N9960B
N9918B
N9938B
N9917B
N9937B
N9916B
N9936B
N9915B/C
N9912C1
N9935B/C
N9914B/C
N9912C1
N9934B/C
N9913B/C
N9912C 1
N9933B/C

1
The maximum frequency of N9912C can be configured to 4, 6.5 or 10 GHz.

8
Create the right configuration for your application
• Select the capabilities (FieldFox options) you need today and add field-upgradeable features via
software license keys as needs change. In this section, combination analyzers include RF and
microwave analyzers. See the FieldFox Handheld Analyzer Configuration Guide FieldFox product
and accessories.
Combination
analyzers Spectrum analyzers
N9913/4/5/6/7/8B N9933/4/5/6/7/8B
N9950/51/52/53B N9960/61/62/63B
Option Description N9913/14/15C N9933/34/35C

CAT / vector network analysis

010 VNA time domain  —
210 VNA transmission/reflection  —
211 VNA full 2-port S-parameters  —
212 1-port mixed-mode S-parameters  —
215 TDR cable measurements  —
Cable and antenna analyzer Base model —1
308 Vector voltmeter  —
320 Reflection meas. (RL, VSWR and scalar meas.) —2 
Spectrum analysis
209 Extended range transmission analysis (ERTA)  
220 Tracking generator —3 
233 Spectrum analyzer  Base model
235 Pre-amplifier  
236 Interference analyzer and spectrogram  
238 Spectrum analyzer time gating  
312 Channel scanner  
350 Real-time spectrum analyzer (RTSA)  
351 I/Q analyzer (IQA)  
352 Indoor and outdoor mapping  
353 IQ streaming  
355 Analog demodulation  
356 Noise figure (NF)  
357 Pulse generator  
358 Electromagnetic field (EMF) measurements  
360 Phased array antenna support  
361 Electromagnetic interference (EMI) measurements  
366 Interference finder (manual mode)  
370/371 Over-the-Air (OTA) LTE FDD/TDD  
378 Over-the-air (OTA) 5G NR  
390 Directional finding – TDOA node support 4  
B04 Analysis bandwidth, 40 MHz 5  
B10 Analysis bandwidth, 120 MHz 5  

9
Create the right configuration for your application
(continued)
Power measurements
208 USB power sensor meas. versus frequency  
302 USB power sensor support  
310 Built-in power meter  
330 Pulse meas. with USB peak power sensor  
System features
030 Remote control capability  
307 GPS receiver  
309 DC bias variable-voltage source  
Windows based software
89601B PathWave 89600 VSA software  
N6820ES Surveyor 4D Software  
SJ002A WaveJudge Wireless Analyzer Toolset  
S9910A Keysight signal management software  
S9911A Directional finding - TDOA  

1 Cable and antenna test (CAT) is not available on the N993x/6xB. A subset of CAT measurements, return loss and VSWR,
is available as Option 320.
2 Option 320 is not applicable to N991x/5xB. The N991xB/5xB includes reflection measurements of return loss and VSWR.
There is no need for an Option 320 on the N991xB/5xB analyzers. option 320 is not available on C models.
3 On the N991x/5xB analyzers, order Options 233 and 210 to obtain a tracking generator with the spectrum analyzer. There
is no Option 220 on the N991x/5xB analyzers. Option 233 provides the spectrum analyzer capability and Option 210 the
“tracking” capability.
4 Currently, only available on N99xxBU/CU upgrades. Requires PC software KSMS S9910A and S9911A to work.
5 10 MHz is standard.

10
Create the right configuration for your application
(continued)
Combination analyzers
Option Description N9912C

Instrument options
N9912C FieldFox RF analyzer (Base unit) 1 Must pick one from instrument options
CA4 Cable and antenna analyzer 4 GHz
CA6 Cable and antenna analyzer 6.5 GHz Frequency can be upgraded via N9912CU
CAX Cable and antenna analyzer 10 GHz Frequency can be upgraded via N9912CU
NA4 Vector network analyzer 4 GHz Full 2 port VNA
NA6 Vector network analyzer 6.5 GHz Frequency can be upgraded via N9912CU
NAX Vector network analyzer 10 GHz Frequency can be upgraded via N9912CU
SA4 Spectrum analyzer 4 GHz
SA6 Spectrum analyzer 6.5 GHz Frequency can be upgraded via N9912CU
SAX Spectrum analyzer 10 GHz Frequency can be upgraded via N9912CU
Measurement options
010 VNA time domain Require NA option
030 Remote control capability
208 USB power sensor meas. versus frequency Require option 302
215 TDR cable measurements Require CAT option
220 Tracking generator Require SA option
235 Pre-amplifier Require SA option
236 Interference analyzer and spectrogram Require SA option
238 Spectrum analyzer time gating Require SA option
302 USB power sensor support Require power sensor
307 GPS receiver
308 Vector voltmeter Require NA option
309 DC bias variable-voltage source
310 Built-in power meter Require SA option
312 Channel scanner Require SA option
330 Pulse meas. with USB peak power sensor Require option 302, peak power sensor
350 Real-time spectrum analyzer (RTSA) Require SA option, B04 for 40MHz
352 Indoor and outdoor mapping Require opt 312 or 370, 371, 378
355 Analog demodulation Require SA option
358 EMF measurements Require SA option
361 EMI measurements Require SA option
366 Interference finder (manual mode) Require SA option
370/371 Over-the-air (OTA) LTE FDD/TDD Require SA option
378 Over-the-air (OTA) 5G NR Require SA option and B04
B04 Analysis bandwidth, 40 MHz Require SA option

1 N9912C main chassis must have at least one option from instrument groups, for example if one from NA group and one from SA
group, like N9912C opt NA6, SAX - 6.5 GHz VNA and 10 GHz SA. Don’t pick 2 options from the same instrument group.

11
Cable and antenna analyzer (CAT)
Fifty to sixty percent of microwave-link equipment issues are related to cables, antennas, and connectors.
Degraded feeder lines cause poor coverage, link failures, and reduced sensitivity in the receive path. To
maintain microwave link quality, it is critical to keep cable and antenna systems in good working
condition. FieldFox is uniquely qualified to provide all the necessary measurements to troubleshoot and
maintain these systems.

Insertion loss and cable loss

Insertion loss or cable loss characterizes the loss of a jumper cable, feeder cable, diplexer, or gain of a
tower-mounted amplifier (TMA). With FieldFox, you can measure both the 1-port cable loss and 2-port
insertion loss. Also, FieldFox’s extended range transmission analysis (ERTA) option, is useful for
measuring long, lossy in-situ cables.

Return loss/VSWR
Return loss (RL) or VSWR is the single most important parameter used to measure and verify a cable and
antenna system. This measurement reflects the power transfer efficiency of a given system.

Distance-to-fault (DTF) and time-domain reflectometry

(TDR)
DTF helps you determine the location and nature of discontinuities in feeder lines. For example, short,
open, or water ingress.

With FieldFox, you can make RL and DTF measurements at the same time. This helps you correlate
overall system degradation with specific faults in the cable and antenna system. The built-in cable editor
lets you edit existing cable types onsite and save them as new cable types with user-defined names.

Measure both DTF and TDR in single sweep

FieldFox’s TDR complements RL and DTF measurements. TDR measures impedance changes along
the cable and helps identify specific faults, RL exposes mismatch issues, and DTF indicates faults and
poor connections. FieldFox is the only handheld instrument that can measure both DTF and TDR in a
single sweep.

12
 View return loss and DTF simultaneously Characterize filter insertion loss Gain insight into faults with TDR measurement

CalReady-calibrated at power on and ready to go

Save time and get right to work with FieldFox’s CalReady feature. With CalReady, theanalyzer is already
calibrated and ready to make measurements such as S11, S22, 1-port cable loss, and DTF/TDR
measurements without having to connect and disconnect additional calibration devices.

Broadband calibration
FieldFox allows you to make broadband calibrations, which means the instrument is calibrated over the
maximum frequency range. After a broadband calibration, you can change the frequency range or
number of points without recalibrating the instrument. The calibration is interpolated, and accuracy is
maintained.

User cal kit support

For users who wish to use traditional mechanical calibration kits, FieldFox supports most
Keysight/Agilent/HP cal kits and allows you to define your own custom calibration kits.

13
Fast and accurate calibration with ECal
The FieldFox calibration engine supports Keysight’s USB ECal modules. ECal support reduces calibration
time and the need to make multiple connections during testing, while also providing for greater
consistency between measurements. For FieldFox users, that translates into fewer human errors and
increased accuracy.

Perform fast and accurate calibrations using ECal

14
Spectrum Analyzer
In microwave, radar, satellite communications, and commercial microwave backhaul, you may be
responsible for hardware installation and maintenance as well as over-the-air signal quality. This could
require regular monitoring for unexpected signals and performing signal surveillance.

FieldFox’s spectrum analyzer will excel in a dynamic spectral environment. You may face measurement
challenges such as the need to detect a low-level signal under strong signal conditions (requiring high
dynamic range), or close-in small interference signals (requiring excellent phase noise).

FieldFox’s superior dynamic range (TOI +15 dBm), close in phase noise (-117 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset),
and fast sweep time make these challenging tasks easier. FieldFox’s spectrum analyzer also provides a
full power measurement suite and complete trace and state control.

Unprecedented amplitude accuracy without warm-up

With FieldFox’s InstAlign capability, internal amplitude alignments occur automatically as environmental
conditions change, without any user intervention. This provides unprecedented amplitude accuracy of
±0.2 dB for spectrum analysis and power measurements. Better yet, FieldFox provides this accuracy
immediately upon instrument turn on - no warm-up required.

Channel power measurements

In modern wireless communications, the ability to accurately measure the power of digitally modulated
signals enables you to maximize the capacity of a system and improve the quality of communication. For
broadband signals, FieldFox offers fast and accurate power measurements that include channel power,
occupied bandwidth, adjacent channel power and spectrum emission mask (SEM).

When performed manually these measurements can be complicated and time consuming, but the
FieldFox power measurement suite makes measurement setup fast and simple.

Monitor frequency spectra up to 54 GHz Channel power measurement of

LTE-A occupied bandwidth
with FieldFox measurement 5G NR FR1 signal

15
Spectrum emission mask (SEM)
The SEM measurement characterizes transmitting signals where the power from in-band and out-of-band
emissions is measured at specified frequency bandwidths and at specific offsets relative to the total
carrier power. The SEM measurement is performing a segmented sweep, segmenting a different
frequency on the lower level and upper level from a reference center frequency. Each segment may have
different frequency span, resolution bandwidth (RBW) and integrated channel bandwidth settings.
Supports up to 8 offset segments and pass or fail mask with absolute or relative limit lines.

Spectrum analyzer time gating

The testing of RF pulses is always challenging because so many instrument settings interact. With Option
238, gated FFT with time gating, FieldFox behaves like a spectrum analyzer and an oscilloscope. This
enables you to quickly detect pulses in the time and frequency domains.

A gate time of 6 µs to 1.8 s enables simultaneous examination of one or more pulses, or pulse rise and
fall times, revealing the effects of spectrum growth due to various pulse shapes. Functions such as video
trigger, external trigger and RF burst ensure reliable pulse detection. Automatic trigger-delay and
bandwidth settings enhance characterization of RF pulses.

Periodic frame trigger synchronized with GPS

Periodic frame trigger allows for trigger execution at a fixed interval between successive executions.
Modern communication systems like 5G use TDD for spectrum access, periodic trigger with time gating
can help to differentiate uplink and downlink signals, this is particularly useful to find uplink interference in
TDD networks. When the measurement is triggered by a frame boundary, which can be synchronized
with GPS, then the data is captured only within the designated boundary.

SEM measurement of 5G NR FR1 Analyze pulsed RF signals using the LTE FDD control channel captured
signal time-gating option with periodic frame trigger synched
to GPS

16
Real-time spectrum analyzer (RTSA)
With the widespread increase of wireless technologies in commercial and military networks, various types
of interference fill the spectral environment. The interfering signals result in network quality deterioration
and communication link breakdowns. Additionally, use of digital modulation and burst-transmission
methods have made it difficult to reliably detect interference sources. RTSA in FieldFox helps by
combining a fast, overlapping FFT processing technique, gap-free data acquisition, and 120 MHz of real-
time bandwidth to detect signals as short as 5.52 µs with 100% POI and full amplitude accuracy.
Detecting signals, independent of amplitude accuracy, can be a critical factor. In such cases, FieldFox
can detect signals as short as 47 ns.

The spectrum density view displays three-dimensional data on a two-dimensional display using color to
show the detected number of frequency and amplitude points during a capture interval for a clear view of
the frequency band’s spectral occupancy. For example, with RTSA you can detect a low-level signal in
the presence of a high-power transmitter using the spectrum density view. Find an elusive signal quickly
using FieldFox’s recording and playback to analyze saved data offline. With RTSA in FieldFox, you can
shift to real-time capabilities with one key press.

Keysight spectrum management software (KSMS)

Keysight Spectrum Management Software (KSMS) is a comprehensive software tool kit to modernize how
frequency regulators, public and private network operators manage its frequency resource, detect, locate
and mitigate interference issues, provide full stack spectrum optimization from RF to over-the-air analog
and digital demodulation.

KSMS works with Keysight FieldFox RF and MW analyzers with an operating frequency from DC to
54GHz. FieldFox can be networked and mobile in a vehicle. Users can quickly setup ad hoc or mobile
signal monitoring network to monitor RF spectrum activities, report frequency allocation and usage, detect
any interference and locate its whereabouts using Time of Difference of Arrival (TDoA) and Received
Signal Strength (RSS) techniques. FieldFox RTSA with a handheld directional antenna can find source of
interference at last mile.

Spectrum monitoring cross domain spectrum display TDOA by three FieldFox analyzers

17
Interference analyzer
Interference can be internal or external, uplink or downlink, and has a direct impact on the quality of
service (QoS) of a communication network. FieldFox’s interference analyzer has an excellent dynamic
range and identifies interfering signals quickly. Spectrogram and waterfall display detect intermittent
signals or monitor signals over a period of time. Record signal traces into internal memory or external
flash memory devices for offline processing.

Channel scanner
Make multiple channel power measurements simultaneously and verify wireless network coverage, path
loss and potential interference issues with the channel scanner. Also, measure primary carriers and their
inter-modulated products. Configure instrument states with a custom set of frequencies, each with a
unique integrating bandwidth. Use data logging to record and playback the data. Use time interval logging
along with geotagging to export files to Google Earth for network coverage analysis.

Noise figure (NF)

Internally generated noise can limit communication system capacity and impact link budget, increase
investment on the transmitter design, or will increase receiver antenna. A key receiver performance
indicator is sensitivity, the ability to reliably discern small signals that are close to the noise floor. A
communication system performance is also based on signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR). Signal behavior
analysis uses a combination of vector network analyzer S-parameter measurements, spectrum analyzer
channel power and adjacent channel power measurements. However, additional evaluation of internally
generated noise is necessary for a complete system performance overview. To address this need, use
noise figure measurements to quantify the SNR degradation caused by components in the link. The
FieldFox noise figure mode uses the industry proven Y-factor technique to accurately verify and
characterize device noise figures and can also provide real-time measurement integrity feedback on
measurement data that includes built-in uncertainty calculator error bars.

Waterfall display makes Scan up to 20 channels Accurately characterize noise figure of

interference hunting easier simultaneously with the devices
channel scanner option

18
AM/FM analog demodulation
Use FieldFox’s analog demodulation to characterize AM/FM radio transmitters, or tune to a signal and
listen to the audio tones with the built-in speakers or a headphone. Measure an RF spectrum,
demodulated waveform, or AM/FM metrics such as carrier power, AM depth, FM deviation, modulation
rate, and SINAD.

IF signal output
FieldFox provides a spectrum analyzer IF output with 10 MHz bandwidth (narrowband path) or an
optional 120 MHz bandwidth (wideband path) to use as a frequency downconverter to digitize a signal
using external test equipment like a real time scope, or PathWave VSA (formerly 89600 VSA) software
to perform deep signal analysis.

Field strength measurements

To characterize the electric and magnetic fields, you must account for the gain and loss of the antenna
and cables. Load antenna factors and cable loss data via the FieldFox front panel or using the
complimentary Data Link software.

Independent signal source

FieldFox has a built-in independent signal source, with a frequency range up to 54 GHz and high output
power over 8 dBm. You can tune the signal source to any frequency, independent of the spectrum
analyzer frequency. Use the signal source to create a test signal to measure coverage, antenna isolation,
antenna direction alignment, shielding effectiveness, and to verify frequency-offset devices.

Extended range transmission analysis (ERTA)

Measuring long in-situ microwave cables such as those on ships is a challenge and requires instruments
with high dynamic range and fast measurement speed. Historically, these measurements used benchtop
scalar analyzers, which are cumbersome to operate in the field. FieldFox’s ERTA can measure dynamic
ranges of 108 dB (at 6 GHz) or 77 dB (at 26.5 GHz), with a portable analyzer that requires no calibration
and no warm-up. ERTA uses two FieldFox, one deployed at each end of the cable. One FieldFox acts as
a source, while the other acts as a receiver. Make cable loss measurements, with accuracy of ± 0.7 dB,
by taking advantage of Keysight’s proprietary InstAlign technique.

19
Characterize AM/FM signals using Use the internal microwave signal Measure long, lossy cables using
AM/FM demodulation source for transponder testing ERTA set up

20
Digitally modulated signal quality verification
Modern wireless communication signals include digital modulation to improve system capacity, maximize
spectrum efficiency, and counter interference. A key challenge to evaluate overall system performance is
to correlate RF component performance to signal quality over-the-air.

Keysight’s PathWave 89600 VSA software can analyze digitally modulated signals simultaneously in the
modulation, time and frequency domains providing useful insight to modulation quality with measurement
displays views including spectrum, IQ constellation, EVM, frequency error and many more. The 89600
VSA link provides a powerful combination of hardware and software for design and troubleshooting of
devices using signal formats such as APCO-25, TETRA for public safety radio, IEEE 802.11p for wireless
vehicular communications, low power wide area networks and other IoT formats, as well as cellular
communications including 5G NR, LTE-A, WCDMA, and more.

FieldFox connects to the PathWave VSA (89600) software (Keysight model number 89601B) via Ethernet
to a Windows based PC or tablet. FieldFox requires a spectrum analysis option to connect with the 89600
VSA software.

I/Q analyzer
The I/Q analyzer mode helps to verify final signal chain integration or troubleshoot signal quality
degradation. Frequency and time domain measurements provide demodulated I/Q data for analysis with
customizable multi-domain displays. Captured I/Q data is analyzed using 89600 VSA software, MATLAB,
Python tool kit and other third-party demodulation software. I/Q captured data of an RF signal
environment can also be re-generated and played back using a vector signal generator. Features such
amplitude and IF alignment before capture and single, or continuous capture allow for enhanced
performance and flexibility.

With option 353 (IQ streaming), FieldFox enables IQ data streaming in VITA 49 format with GPS precision
time stamping. This capability provides gapless IQ data to external application software to perform
spectrum monitoring, demodulation, and decoding. The streamed data can be saved on a PC hard drive.

Public safety transmitting signal FieldFox connects to the PathWave IQ data captured in FieldFox
quality test –P25 C4FM demodulation 89600 VSA SW via LAN for 5G NR I/Q analyzer mode
with FieldFox demodulation analysis

21
Over-the-Air (OTA) measurements for LTE FDD or TDD
Wireless networks have become more complex with the roll out of 4G and 5G. A key question is “what
network coverage is”, since today’s wireless networks are comprised of macrocells, microcells, and
picocells, and deployment of these cells occurs in layers. The macrocell provides overall coverage, while
the microcell and picocell deliver high data throughputs to end users.

To guarantee smooth handover from various cells and frequencies, it is essential to make sure each cell
has enough neighbors to handle various communication scenarios from mobile users, like coverage for
voice, text messages and data services.

At any location, a mobile phone sees all types of cells at the same time and must determine the ones
intended for that phone. With the OTA measurement on FieldFox, engineers can scan the area to
determine how many type cells are available and which cells are good neighbors.

FieldFox LTE FDD OTA or LTE TDD OTA demodulation can provide insights to available cells with
physical cell ID (PCI) on any given frequency, or the component carrier. This measurement demodulates
and decodes all available cells on a single component carrier allowing engineers to see if any additional
cells are available to use, thereby addressing the common problem of finding missing neighbors. In
addition to single carrier multicell measurements, FieldFox also displays the strongest cell on different
component carriers (up to a maximum of 6 cells, if present). This greatly expedites the process to find out
which frequencies are the best for any given location and optimizes inter-frequency handover. LTE FDD
OTA or LTE TDD OTA measures and decodes cell ID, RSRP, RSRQ, RSSI, PSS, SSS, SINR and
frequency error.

Multicell measurement with cell ID on single carrier Multiple carrier frequencies measurement with strong
frequency cell display

22
Over-the-Air (OTA) measurements for 5G
5G technologies provide dramatic network speed improvement and super-fast connection time. 5G NR is
the 3GPP standard for the wireless network running on the sub 6 GHz frequency band (FR1) and the
millimeter-wave frequency band (FR2) that offers gigabyte data rates. The key challenges for 5G network
deployment are characterizing air interface pathloss and beam coverage. Since 5G network technology
uses beamforming and massive MIMO to achieve high data rates, its control channels are on beam
steering and are not always on.

When transitioning to 5G, you must verify the quality of their network and beam performance so that
users can connect without issue. To do this, you need a solution in your field kit that is capable of reading
and displaying important metrics from several base stations in the vicinity. To measure the effective
coverage, FieldFox 5G OTA can measure and decode PSS, SSS, beam indexes, cell ID and various
signal quality metrics, which are key parameters to verify 5G coverage. This information enables users to
identify frequency drifting, isolate power issues, investigate performance problems, and verify Inter-RAT
handovers. These measurements are especially imperative in optimizing network coverage for 5G.

The most recent enhancements on the FiedFox OTA 5G NR application enable the constellation
diagrams of EVM, to help users accurately and intuitively quantifying the modulations in the 5G NR signal
of interests.

Since 5G control channels are not always on and they are using initial access beam sweeping, it can be
challenging to determine the location of the 5G signal. Switching into the FieldFox RTSA mode quickly
and reliably detects 5G signals, control channels and provides insights to beamforming performance.

5G has two modes of implementation, non-standalone (NSA) and standalone (SA). NSA requires LTE as
an anchor to provide a control plane. This improves 5G network reliability because widely deployed LTE
has better coverage. For quick 5G coverage deployments, 5G implements dynamic spectrum sharing
(DSS) that allows 5G to run on existing 4G LTE physical channels without disrupting LTE operation.
However, operators must ensure 5G coverage on the same channel is similar, to and minimize efficiency
impact due to higher overhead RRM activities.

5G NR OTA measures control channels and displays 5G DSS on LTE channel

cell ID
Top: 5G NR channel scan with cell ID
Bottom: LTE channel scan with cell ID

23
Increased precision is here with wider bandwidth
The world of communications is embracing wireless in an unprecedent way regardless of industry segment.
5G will completely change human-to-human, machine-to-machine and human-to-machine communications
and it will make industry 4.0 a reality, commonly referred to as the fourth industrial revolution.

5G is not only for commercial communication. It will completely change the military communication
paradigm by providing higher capacity, instant sensing capability and hyper fast speeds.

The three main trends happening in RF and microwave communications are:

• Wider bandwidths
• Higher operating frequencies
• Active antenna systems like phased array antennas
The goal of these trends is to increase network speed and to minimize latency; nevertheless, these
trends impose greater challenges to RF engineers and technicians who design and maintain these
networks, including:

• Interference becomes much harder to detect due to short signal durations

• Microwave and millimeter wave signals can be easily blocked, and coverage is limited
• Signal beams from phased array antennas need to be optimized to achieve the intended coverage
area vs. creating coverage holes
Given the new dynamics of wideband, microwave and millimeter wave communications, Keysight
developed the next generation FieldFox Microwave Analyzer with 120 MHz of real-time bandwidth and
frequency coverage up to 54 GHz. To address the millimeter wave frequency requirements for 5G,
satellite and automotive radar industries, FieldFox can easily extend its frequency up to 110 GHz with an
add-on downconverter. FieldFox is also the industries most integrated handheld analyzer supporting over
20 key RF and microwave instrument functions including signal analyzer, full 2-port vector network
analyzer, real-time spectrum analyzer, over-the-air demodulation, CW signal source, power meter and
many more, in an all-in-one field proof package.

24
Electromagnetic field (EMF) measurements
Radio frequency electromagnetic fields (EMF) tests evaluate total RF exposure in any given area due to
deployment of various RF/MW networks, such as mobile phones, base stations, Wi-Fi, smart meters, IoT
devices, as well as satellite and radar systems.

Exposure limits for electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation differ by country. Many countries base their
regulations on findings from research organizations like the International Commission on Non-Ionizing
Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the
Federal Communication Commission (FCC).

Field verification is required for compliance to exposure levels set by these government and regulatory
agencies. FieldFox with EMF measurements supports connectivity to AGOS Advanced Technologies
Triaxial Isotropic Antenna (or Keysight 85572A). The spectrum analyzer and over-the-air (OTA) 5G NR
modes support EMF measurements that measure the total field strength across the frequency band of
interest.

Indoor and outdoor mapping

To verify network coverage or identify interference in any area, it is essential to combine receiver
measurements with GPS location tags or from indoor markers. FieldFox imports and displays maps from
OpenStreetMap (OSM) for data collection and mapping. The FieldFox system level indoor and outdoor
mapping feature can be enabled within the following modes: (1) Channel Scanner, (2) Phased Array
Antenna Support, (3) Over-the-Air (OTA) LTE FDD or TDD, (4) Over-the-Air (OTA) 5G TF, and (5) Over-
the-Air (OTA) 5G NR.

Save maps to the FieldFox internal memory, SD card or USB drive. Use the FieldFox Map Support Tool
download OSM maps or use a direct wired LAN connection.

EMF measurement using spectrum Imported indoor site map PNG file Outdoor map of OTA LTE synched
analyzer channel power mode with GPS

25
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) measurements
Base stations and mobile devices generate unwanted signals that create noise and interference. One of
the key challenges in the wireless industry is to minimize this noise and interference with EMI testing.

EMI diagnostic and performance verification are common tests for the lab, the manufacturing floor, field
equipment, and regulatory inspections. EMI measurements help to:

• Evaluate pre-compliance limits before formal compliance tests

• Identify issues like noise floor rise and interference generated by other equipment
• Perform equipment or network regulatory audits against various limits, such as CISPR 16-1-1.
• Troubleshoot circuit boards
• Test potential system level performance impact due to EMI degradation
Keysight’s FieldFox handheld analyzer provides a comprehensive solution to measure EMI, Amplitude
Probability Distribution (APD), FFT spectrum analysis, and real-time spectrum analysis with density and
spectrogram displays. It also performs vector network analysis for full 2 port S-parameter measurements.
It is an ideal tool to address all EMI troubleshooting issues.

EMI measurements with built-in CISPR compliant A Complementary Cumulative Distribution Function
detectors, RBW’s and band presets in addition to a (CCDF) curve under APD and within EMI
logarithmic scan and user-defined limit lines provide an measurements reveals the statistical behavior of
ideal pre-compliance EMI testing tool regardless of interference signals
being in the field or in a lab.

26
Geo-positioning and directional finding made easy
RF signals, both wanted and unwanted, crowd the modern world. Because of this, finding the geo-
location of the signal source or interference of interest is an integral part of signal/spectrum management.
Several directional finding techniques are commonly adopted to locate the signal source. Among them,
Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) is a well-established technique providing accurate results with as little
as ten meters of uncertainty.

FieldFox, known as the industry’s most integrated handheld signal analyzer, finds itself the best fit for the
applications of directional finding. TDOA measurements require three or four FieldFox analyzers
distributed at separate geographic locations and connected with a data network via VPN or public IP
address. These FieldFox analyzers act as RF receivers/sensors and accurately synchronize in time with
GPS signals. Each analyzer detects the modulated wideband IQ signals from the unknown signal source
and sends the information to a networked computer installed with Keysight Spectrum Management
Software (KSMS). The KSMS’s TDOA algorithm calculates the set of hyperbolic curves and finds the
intersection of these curves, determining the location of the unknown signal source.

TDOA PC software KSMS calculates the intersection

of the hyperbolas and determines the geo-location of
the RF signal source

TDOA solution using three networked FieldFox

analyzers and PC software KSMS

In specific situations, like the final stage of signal

locating, a quick and easy approach is necessary
to pinpoint the source of interference.

Primarily designed for RF direction finding (DF)

and transmitter hunting, a handheld directional
antenna (Keysight 85574A) is seamlessly
integrated with the Keysight FieldFox spectrum
analyzer equipped with the interference finding
(manual) option and the GPS feature to empower
network maintainers to efficiently locate sources of Moving a FieldFox connecting with the directional antenna,
interference with reliable geo-accuracy. one can trace the cross-section of trajectory lines (or
“bearings”) of the interference. Overlaying this data onto the
GPS map allows for precise pinpointing of the interference

27
Vector Network Analyzer
FieldFox includes options for VNA transmission/reflection (T/R) capability for S11 and S21 measurements,
or with full 2-port capability for measurements of all four S-parameters and full 2-port calibration.

With a full 2-port network analyzer, you can measure the forward and reverse characteristics of your
component without having to disconnect, turn around, and reconnect it to the analyzer. Additionally, the full
2-port calibration gives you the best measurement accuracy possible.

FieldFox’s four independent, sensitive receivers provide 117 dB of dynamic range for measurement of high
rejection, narrowband devices such as cavity filters. The receivers also enable full 2-port error correction
with the unknown thru method, allowing users to measure non-insertable devices accurately and easily.

FieldFox’s calibration engine is the same engine that powers the well-respected Keysight ENA and PNA
network analyzers. FieldFox leverages Keysight microwave expertise to deliver consistent measurements
with Keysight benchtop VNAs.

Calibration
FieldFox’s guided Cal Wizard takes guessing out of calibration and allows you to easily perform the
following calibrations:

• Full 2-port unknown thru

• Full 2-port QSOLT
• OSL, response, enhanced response
• TRL, LRL offset short

Simultaneously measure and view all four S- Use the marker bandwidth/Q factor function to simplify
parameters, with a single connection filter testing and tuning

28
Network analyzer time domain
With the time-domain option, FieldFox computes the inverse Fourier transform of the frequency-domain
data to display reflection or transmission coefficients versus time. You can remove unwanted responses
such as connector mismatch or cable discontinuities using Time-domain gating and display the results in
either time or frequency domain.

Waveguide support
Waveguides better provide transmission links between microwave transmitters and antennas than coax
cables due to lower loss. Keysight offers both high-performance and economical waveguide calibration
kits. The economical kits are ideal for field maintenance and troubleshooting because they provide good
measurement results at a lower cost.

Vector voltmeter
Using FieldFox’s vector voltmeter (VVM), you can measure the phase shift and electrical length of a
device. You can view results on the large display as far as ten feet or three meters away. VVM also
provides ratio measurements of magnitude and phase of two channels, A/B or B/A. You can use this
capability to verify the magnitude and phase differences between multiple signal paths such as in an
antenna or phased array.

FieldFox offers all the key functionalities of the HP 8508A standalone vector voltmeter in a handheld form
factor, and without the need for the source, bridge and accessories required with the 8508A.

Mixed-mode S-parameters
With FieldFox, you can measure the common- and differential-mode reflections of a device. Mixed-mode
S-parameters are also known as balanced measurements. This measurement requires the full 2-port VNA
and 2-port cal functionality.

Easily use waveguides with FieldFox Simplify cable trimming with the Characterized common and
vector voltmeter capability differential mode reflections with
mixed-mode S-parameter
measurements

29
Built-In Pulse Generator
FieldFox is renowned as the most versatile handheld analyzer on the market. The addition of the new
optional built-in pulse generator further broadens its capabilities, extending from signal analysis to signal
generation.
Having a pulse/signal generator built into a handheld signal analyzer is particularly advantageous. It
allows air traffic agencies to conduct radar field tests without adding any additional instrument footprint,
ensuring that radar receivers can accurately pick up the pulse signal. Additionally, it facilitates the
simulation of automotive radar signals to verify receiver functionality accurately and conveniently.
Moreover, a test technician can place a FieldFox with the pulse generator inside a mobile EMI chamber to
measure RF leakage effectively.
The carrier signal generated can attain a maximum frequency coverage of up to 54 GHz, varying
depending on the FieldFox model. It provides a versatile array of user-definable pulse sequences,
including FM chirp, alongside continuous wave (CW) signals with or without amplitude modulation (AM),
frequency modulation (FM), FSK, and BPSK. The analyzer's graphical user interface intuitively presents
the parameters and waveforms of the generated signals.

The FieldFox display showcases the user- A frequency-modulated (FM) signal is presented
definable pulse sequences and waveform with essential parameters such as carrier
frequency, FM deviation, and additional details

30
USB Power Sensor Support
FieldFox can connect with Keysight USB power sensors to make RF and microwave power
measurements. Using USB peak power sensors, you can measure both the average and the peak power
of a modulated signal.

USB power measurements versus frequency

SEM measurement of 5G NR FR1 signal in addition to power measurements at a single CW frequency,
you can measure power versus frequency - a swept measurement. FieldFox’s source frequency can be set
equal to the sensor/receiver frequency, or with an offset. The swept source and receiver frequencies track
each other. The offset frequency can be negative, zero, or positive.

This capability is useful for characterization of the scalar transmission response of devices such as mixers
and converters. The FieldFox source stimulates the DUT and the measurement receiver is a power sensor.

Pulse measurements
FieldFox’s pulse measurement option allows you to efficiently characterize pulsed RF signals such as
those used in radar and electronic warfare systems, leveraging the Keysight USB peak power sensors.
Measurements include peak power, peak to average ratio, and pulse profile parameters such as rise time,
fall time and pulse repetition frequency.

Simplify power measurements with Characterize mixers with FieldFox Use FieldFox to characterize pulses
USB power sensors and a USB power sensor

31
Software and System Features
Remote control capability with iOS or Android
mobile devices
Engineers and technicians can now remotely monitor and control their FieldFox using their iOS- or
Android-based mobile devices. FieldFox’s Remote Viewer iOS/Android app emulates the front panel of
the unit, letting you simply press any FieldFox key and turn the knob right from your iOS/Android device.
The app also allows you to instantly access technical documents such as data sheets.

FieldFox’s Data Link software

FieldFox’s complimentary Data Link software provides data transfer, data definition and report generation.
You can add markers and limit lines to traces, and you can load cable files and antenna factors using
Data Link.

Remote control via LAN and FieldFox programming

You can control all FieldFox models using SCPI over LAN and USB.

Built-in variable voltage DC bias

FieldFox has a built-in variable voltage DC bias source. The DC bias source can provide DC power to
amplifiers under test and bias tower mounted amplifiers (TMA) when you need to sweep through the TMA
to reach the antenna (bias tees available separately).

Built-in GNSS/GPS
A built-in GNSS/GPS receiver provides geo-location tags to measurements. You can display and save
the geo data-time, latitude, longitude, and elevation in data files. In addition to location information, the
GPS provides an external reference to improve FieldFox frequency accuracy.

USB keyboard and mouse support

FieldFox supports use of USB keyboards and mice to simplify the input of text such as file names while
working in the field.

32
Simplify text entry with a Obtain geolocation data with the Control and view your FieldFox
USB keyboard and mouse built-in GNSS/GPS capability via your iPad

Carry Precision with You

Every piece of gear in your field kit had to prove its worth. Measuring up and earning a spot is the driving
idea behind Keysight’s FieldFox analyzers. They’re equipped to handle routine maintenance, in-depth
troubleshooting, and anything in between. Better yet, FieldFox delivers precise microwave and millimeter-
wave measurements- wherever you need to go. Add FieldFox to your kit and carry precision with you.

Related literature Number

FieldFox Handheld Analyzers N991x/3x/5x/6xB, Data Sheet 5992-3702EN
FieldFox Handheld Analyzers N991x/3xC, Data Sheet 3123-1696.EN
FieldFox Handheld Analyzers N991x/3x/5x/6xB,C, Configuration Guide 5992-3701EN

Download application notes, watch videos, and learn more: www.keysight.com/find/fieldfox

Keysight enables innovators to push the boundaries of engineering by quickly solving

design, emulation, and test challenges to create the best product experiences. Start your
innovation journey at www.keysight.com.

This information is subject to change without notice. © Keysight Technologies, 2020 - 2024,
Published in USA, May 1, 2024, 5992-3703EN