Josh,
I would agree with Shirley on the use of the TinySA.? I have been searching for a good SA since I got back into the hobby and have tried may "low cost" alternatives.? Everything from the RFExplorer to the Discovery 2 series.? Each of them has an area that does not meet the full requirements.? It would be a long email to contrast all of the options that I have gone through.
Currently, I have three devices that I go to for diagnostic use:
1 - NanoVNA for filter or SWR testing
2 - TinySA for harmonic and spur hunting
3 - RSP1A for close in audio frequency testing at RF frequencies. (this is just a more expensive RTL-SDR type of device with an upconverter built-in)
I have not found a tool that does it all.? At best I could replace the TinySA and RSP1A with a Rigol or Sigelent SA, and had I started there would be money ahead taking into account all of the failed purchases.
I am still learning more about how to use the TinySA to overcome the RBW issues.? That would include using AM to test amplifier linearity to get enough separation to measure IIMP3.? I still do not understand that process at this point.? There are also other ways that only require an oscilloscope (an oscilloscope is a given in the test equipment list and should be purchased before the SA choices).
So as others on the thread have stated you first need to decide what it is you want to measure (the use case) for the instrument.? That will then guide you to the best device for the job at a price that you can afford.
Above are my opinions, and maybe in error.? Please check for yourself as much as possible.
73
Evan
AC9TU
