What parameters does a spectrum analyzer display?

A spectrum analyzer primarily displays the relationship between the magnitude (or power) of signals and their frequency components. This allows users to visualize how various frequencies contribute to the overall signal. The horizontal axis of the display typically represents frequency, while the vertical axis indicates the magnitude, often measured in decibels (dB).

Understanding this is crucial for evaluating and troubleshooting signals in electronics. For instance, being able to see which frequencies are present and their strength enables technicians to diagnose issues like interference or to ensure that a signal meets specified performance criteria. Thus, focusing on magnitude and frequency allows for a precise analysis of signals across a wide range of applications, such as communications, audio testing, and RF design.

Other options focus on parameters that don't specifically relate to the functions of a spectrum analyzer. Intensity and duration, for example, relate more to temporal characteristics rather than frequency analysis. Waveform and distortion are associated with oscilloscopes, which visualize the time-domain representation of signals, while phase and amplitude involve more specific measurements often relevant in contexts like modulation and signal processing, but less so in displaying the spectrum of frequencies.