An improved method for the evaluation of uncertainty of channel power measurement with a spectrum analyzer

This paper discusses issues in the uncertainty of power measurement performed with a superheterodyne spectrum analyzer. In particular, the channel power technique is considered, and an original and effective method is proposed based on the "Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement" for the uncertainty evaluation of channel power measurement. The method is based on the measurement of some suitable parameters associated to the input signal's spectrum and the use of a proper postprocessing formula. It allows a user to greatly simplify the computation of measurement uncertainty without loss of accuracy. The effectiveness of the method is verified experimentally. In particular, experiments are performed involving both laboratory- generated signals and some typical real-world digital communication signals. Helpful information and hints for the optimization of the spectrum analyzer setup and the reduction of uncertainty are Anally provided.