One of my favorite companies, Mini-Circuits, developed a (really!) low-noise, broad band, preamp (model PSA4-5043+) earlier this year for use as a front-end amplifier for mobile telecom applications, such as GSM, CDMA, LTE and WiMax. However, it would also be ideal to amplify spectrum analyzers and the low-noise feature would lower the effective noise figure of the analyzer, allowing you to see low-level signals better. This would not only be useful for amplifying near-field or current probe outputs, but would work well to boost the antenna output in semi-anechoic chambers – especially if there is a long run of coax cable.
Lets take a closer look and sweep the gain on our spectrum analyzer. more…
design-4-emc.com 