Handheld Software Tools

Handheld Software Tools is a Windows program for the Anritsu Master product family. Using this software, cable, antenna and spectrum analysis plots can be uploaded and downloaded using a computer running Windows 95, 98, NT 4.0, 2000, ME, XP, or Vista. This innovative software program allows you to save data in the field for analysis and comparison later. Test data can be analyzed and compared to historical performance. Traces can be downloaded from the instrument with a single menu selection. Return Loss and VSWR data can be converted to Distance-to-Fault (DTF) and S11 information. DTF can be displayed as return loss versus distance, VSWR versus distance or milliRho (reflection coefficient) versus distance. This allows problems with connectors, and adapters, as well as cable or waveguide damage to be identified easily. S11 vector magnitude and phase data can be displayed on a Smith Chart, allowing components to be impedance matched for optimum system performance. The use of historical data reduces field maintenance costs. During the site commissioning process, the antenna systems return loss/VSWR, Gain/Insertion loss and Distance-to-Fault signature characteristics are downloaded into the Handheld Software Tools database. Maintenance technicians recall the signature characteristics during periodic maintenance verification. The Windows based drag-and-drop capability speeds fault comparison by allowing traces stored at different times to be displayed on the same graph. Spectrum plots can also be saved and compared to make identification of interference problems easier.

The Handheld Software Tools provide a database to compare maintenance interval performance to the sites commissioning data. The Distance-to-Fault display pinpoints problem areas before they degenerate into failures. In the graph above a loosened connector changes the return loss from 30 dB to 28 dB ( <0.01 VSWR increase). It meets VSWR specifications, but is indicative of a probable loose weather seal which will eventually allow water intrusion.

The Handheld Software Tools can display multiple formats of the same or different data. Additionally, an on-screen measurement calculator allows easy conversion between return loss, VSWR, reflection coefficient and transmitted power %.

Captured plots can be saved into a database where additional information about the site, sector, feed and operator can be added. The database can later be queried using virtually any combination of plot information.

Smith is a registered trademark of Analog Instrument Company of New Providence, N.J.