Rohde & Schwarz, a manufacturer of RF test and measurement equipment, has introduced the R&S FNH handheld combination analyzer, bringing spectrum analysis, real-time spectrum analysis, vector network analysis, cable and antenna testing, and power measurements into a single portable instrument. Unveiled at electronica 2026 in Munich, the analyzer is designed for engineers working on radar systems, satellite ground stations, wireless communications infrastructure and RF systems that require measurements both in the laboratory and in the field.
The instrument supports spectrum analysis at frequencies up to 32 GHz and vector network analysis up to 26.5 GHz. Spectrum analysis is included as standard, while additional capabilities such as real-time spectrum analysis (RTSA), two-port vector network analysis (VNA), and cable and antenna testing can be activated through software keycodes. The analyzer also supports USB power sensors from Rohde & Schwarz for peak and average power measurements, along with optional pulse analysis.
Real-Time Spectrum Analysis for Detecting Short-Duration Signals
One of the key capabilities of the R&S FNH is its 125 MHz real-time analysis bandwidth, which allows engineers to continuously observe wide sections of the RF spectrum without the gaps associated with conventional swept spectrum measurements. This is particularly useful for identifying intermittent interference, frequency-hopping signals, radar pulses and other short-duration transmissions that can be difficult to detect using traditional measurement techniques.
The instrument processes up to 310,000 FFTs per second and provides a minimum probability-of-intercept duration of 3.6 µs, enabling the detection of brief signals within its real-time analysis bandwidth. This capability is useful for troubleshooting wireless communication networks, investigating interference and monitoring dynamic RF environments, including LTE-Advanced, 5G NR and Wi-Fi 6/6E systems.
The R&S FNH also provides a displayed average noise level (DANL) down to -164 dBm in a 1 Hz bandwidth, supporting measurements of weak RF signals. Its vector network analyzer offers a dynamic range of up to 110 dB, allowing engineers to characterize RF components and cables with significant insertion loss, where the measurement signal may approach the instrument noise floor.
Designed for Aerospace, Defense and Wireless Infrastructure
The R&S FNH is designed for installation, maintenance, calibration and troubleshooting across aerospace, defense and communications applications. Its combination of measurement functions allows engineers to perform spectrum monitoring, cable and antenna verification, RF component characterization and interference investigations without carrying separate instruments for each task.
For radar and electronic warfare applications, the real-time spectrum analysis capability can help engineers investigate pulsed and frequency-hopping signals. In satellite ground stations and wireless infrastructure installations, the instrument can be used for cable and antenna measurements, signal verification and troubleshooting. These functions are particularly useful at remote installations, tower sites and other locations where access to laboratory equipment is limited.
The handheld analyzer operates over a temperature range of -10 °C to +55 °C and features a ruggedized enclosure, glare-reduced display and backlit keypad for outdoor use. An optional rain holster provides additional environmental protection, making the instrument suitable for field maintenance and extended measurement campaigns.
Measurement Automation and Laboratory Applications
Beyond field measurements, the R&S FNH supports laboratory R&D, production testing and engineering education. It features a 7-inch multi-touch display, an integrated measurement wizard to guide users through measurement procedures, and a configuration dashboard that provides an overview of instrument settings.
The analyzer supports SCPI commands for integration with automated test systems and works with R&S VSE software for signal demodulation analysis. It also supports R&S InstrumentView software for remote instrument access, while a channel scanner can automate measurements across predefined frequency lists. These capabilities allow the instrument to be used for repetitive test procedures, production measurements and remote laboratory exercises.
The R&S FNH replaces the R&S FSH and R&S ZVH handheld analyzer families. It is available in three hardware versions covering frequencies up to 6 GHz, 13 GHz and 26.5 GHz, which can be expanded to 8 GHz, 20 GHz and 32 GHz, respectively, for spectrum analysis.
Rohde & Schwarz is showcasing the R&S FNH at electronica 2026, November 10–13, in Munich at Booth A4.307. The instrument is available through Rohde & Schwarz and selected distribution partners and comes with a standard three-year warranty.