Rohde & Schwarz is set to revolutionize the field of signal and spectrum analysis with the launch of the FSWX signal and spectrum analyzer, an innovative instrument designed to overcome the limitations of current measurement methods.
Featuring a groundbreaking architecture that integrates multiple input ports with advanced cross-correlation techniques, the FSWX enables entirely new measurement scenarios in RF system testing. Tailored for mobile communications, wireless, and satellite applications, it meets the growing demand for higher data rates, wider modulation bandwidths, and increased modulation orders – areas where traditional signal analyzers often struggle.
The FSWX will make its debut at IMS2025 in San Francisco, marking a significant advancement in the industry.
Caption:
FSWX signal and spectrum analyzer with its novel architecture allows design engineers to measure the impossible.
Rohde & Schwarz introduces the brand-new FSWX signal and spectrum analyzer, the first multichannel signal and spectrum analyzer with multiple input ports, unlocking new possibilities in signal analysis.
It is also the first instrument of its kind with a cutting-edge internal multi-path architecture enabling a novel cross-correlation feature.
Combined with:
- Low phase noise for high signal purity
- Spurious-free dynamic range
- Outstanding residual EVM
…the FSWX delivers RF performance like no other analyzer on the market.
Internal Bandwidth & Application Scope
The instrument’s wide internal bandwidth of 8 GHz allows for comprehensive analysis even of complex waveforms and modulation schemes.
Combined with high measurement speed and analysis tools tailored to the user’s needs, the FSWX brings new levels of performance and precision to signal analysis for modern RF applications — from:
- Active RF components testing
- State-of-the-art automotive radar testing
- Complex airborne radar scenarios
- Satellite tests in A&D applications
- Latest test challenges in WLAN and cellular technologies like 5G and beyond
“Our team has truly re-imagined signal and spectrum analysis technology with our new FSWX,”
said Michael Fischlein, Vice President Spectrum & Network Analyzers, EMC & Antenna Test at Rohde & Schwarz.
“They have come up with an innovative architecture and design to empower our customers to tackle complex measurement scenarios in the evolving landscape of wireless communications and radar technology that were previously unattainable.
In other words, the FSWX makes measuring the impossible, possible.”
Key Innovations
Multiple Input Ports
The multichannel FSWX offers the ability to measure multiple signal sources simultaneously, regardless of whether they operate at the same or different frequencies.
With synchronous input ports, each featuring 4 GHz analysis bandwidth, users can seamlessly analyze the interactions between diverse signals.
This enables scenarios such as phase-coherent measurements of antenna arrays used in:
- Beamforming for wireless communications
- Airborne and automotive radar sensors
Multi-Path Architecture & Cross-Correlation
The advanced internal multi-path architecture allows for the cross-correlation mode, a novel feature of the FSWX. A single signal input is internally split into two independent signal paths, each with its own local oscillator and ADC.
Advanced cross-correlation algorithms in the digital backend remove inherent instrument noise, making visible spurs that traditional analyzers can’t detect.
This is especially helpful for Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) measurements in mobile communications, where wideband noise limits performance.
The architecture also enables:
- Advanced triggering using IF or RF power triggers at different frequencies
- Independent frequency settings for each path
- Clear visualization of RF signal interactions
Advanced Filter Banks & Broadband ADCs
Unlike traditional analyzers that rely on YIG filters for preselection (which complicate frequency response), the FSWX employs:
- Broadband ADCs
- Filter banks spanning the entire operating frequency range
This allows pre-selected wideband signal analysis without the need for YIG filters. However, optional YIG filters are available for narrowband applications.
The filter banks:
- Deliver high precision
- Optimize instrument settings for specific uses
- Minimize signal contamination from unwanted images
Firmware & Usability
The FSWX includes firmware innovations such as CrossACT (Cross Application Control and Triggering) — synchronizing multiple input channels for simultaneous multi-tool analysis.
Use case:
Compare radar signal harmonics directly against the EVM performance of a 5G signal — simplifying complex diagnostics.
The Linux-based operating system ensures:
- Security
- Long-term support
- Stability
Ideal for security-sensitive environments and demanding applications.
Public Debut
Rohde & Schwarz will present the FSWX signal and spectrum analyzer for the first time at the IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium (IMS) from June 17–19, 2025, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, CA, Booth 1443.
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