Below is the clean redrawn block diagram of your AF Wave Analyzer, followed by a simple and clear
explanation exactly matching your handwritten diagram.
Redrawn AF Wave Analyzer Block Diagram (Clean + Exam-Friendly)
Explanation of AF Wave Analyzer (Based on Your Diagram)
An AF (Audio-Frequency) Wave Analyzer is used to measure individual frequency components
within the audio range (20 Hz – 20 kHz).
It works using a highly selective tuned filter method.
1. Input Attenuator
• Controls the input signal level.
• Prevents overloading of internal amplifiers.
• Adjusts amplitude before filtering.
Think of it like a volume reducer.
2. Output Amplifier
• Boosts the input signal to a usable level for filtering.
• Ensures the signal is strong enough to pass through selective filters.
3. Selective Filter Amplifier Section
This is the heart of the AF analyzer.
It contains:
• RC/LC selective filters
• High-Q filter circuits
• Two or more filter amplifier stages
Function:
• Allows only the selected frequency to pass.
• Rejects all unwanted frequencies.
• The tuning knob adjusts the filter's resonant frequency.
This is how the analyzer isolates one frequency component at a time.
4. Meter Amplifier + Detector
• The filtered AC signal is rectified (detected).
• The detector converts AC → DC.
• The meter amplifier boosts the DC level for accurate reading.
The output goes to the meter.
5. Output Meter (Voltage / dB)
• Measures amplitude of the selected frequency.
• Usually calibrated in:
o Volts
o Decibels (dB)
This tells how strong that frequency component is.
6. Buffer Amplifier (Output for Recorder)
• Provides an auxiliary output.
• Allows connection to:
o Recorders
o Oscilloscopes
o Plotters
o External analyzers
• Prevents loading of the detector circuit.
Heterodyne Wave Analyzer block diagram.
Explanation of Fig. 9.3 – Heterodyne Wave Analyzer
This diagram shows how a heterodyne wave analyzer converts a high-frequency signal into a fixed
intermediate frequency (IF) for easy measurement.
Let’s understand each block step by step, in simple language:
1. Input Signal
This is the complex signal whose frequency components you want to analyze.
2. Adjustable Attenuator
• It controls or reduces the amplitude of the input signal.
• Prevents overloading of the mixer and amplifier.
• Helps set the correct signal level.
Think of it as a volume control knob for the incoming signal.
3. Balanced Mixer
This is the heart of the heterodyne analyzer.
It mixes:
• the input signal, and
• the local oscillator signal
Using the mixing process (heterodyning), the mixer produces:
• Sum frequency → (Input + LO)
• Difference frequency → |Input – LO|
The analyzer selects a fixed IF, usually the difference frequency.
4. Tunable Local Oscillator
• Generates a known frequency.
• You can tune (adjust) it.
• When you change the LO frequency, different components of the input signal get shifted to
the same IF.
This is how you “scan” all frequencies in the input.
Example:
If IF is fixed at 50 kHz, and input has 400 kHz, LO is tuned to 350 kHz.
5. Fixed Frequency Amplifier
• Amplifies only the fixed IF frequency (example: 50 kHz).
• Very selective and stable because its frequency never changes.
• Removes all unwanted frequencies.
This makes the measurement accurate.
6. Indicator Meter (VTVM)
• Measures the amplitude of the IF signal.
• Shows the strength (voltage) of that particular frequency component.
• The scale is calibrated so you know the real amplitude of the original signal.
Overall Working (Very Simple Summary)
1. The input signal enters the circuit.
2. The attenuator sets the proper level.
3. The mixer combines the input signal with the LO frequency.
4. This shifts the desired frequency component to a fixed IF.
5. The IF amplifier boosts this fixed IF.
6. The meter shows the amplitude of that frequency component.
7. By tuning the LO, all frequencies in the input can be analyzed one-by-one.
Spectrum Analyzer
What is a Spectrum Analyzer? (Easy Definition)
A spectrum analyzer is an electronic instrument that shows how the energy (amplitude) of a signal
is distributed over different frequencies.
• X-axis → Frequency
• Y-axis → Amplitude
It tells us which frequencies are present in a signal and how strong they are.
Types of Spectrum Analyzers
There are two main types:
1. Filter Bank Spectrum Analyzer (AF range, real-time)
2. Superheterodyne Spectrum Analyzer (RF range, MHz/GHz)
1. Filter Bank Spectrum Analyzer (Easy Explanation)
Used for audio-frequency signals (AF range).
It is also called a real-time spectrum analyzer because it displays all frequencies instantly.
How it Works (Step-by-Step)
1. Input signal is applied to multiple band-pass filters.
2. Each filter passes only one frequency band (example: 0–1 kHz, 1–2 kHz, etc.).
3. Each filter output goes to a detector, which converts AC → DC level.
4. All detector outputs are fed to an electronic switch.
5. The electronic switch sends each output one by one to the CRO’s vertical plate.
6. The ramp generator sends a time-varying signal to the CRO’s horizontal plate to sweep
across frequency.
7. The CRO displays the complete frequency spectrum.
•
2. Superheterodyne Spectrum Analyzer (Easy Explanation)
Used for high-frequency (RF/Microwave) signals.
It works on the heterodyne principle (mixing frequencies).
How it Works (Step-by-Step)
1. RF Input enters the input attenuator
o Reduces signal if it's too strong.
2. Signal goes to Low Pass Filter (LPF)
o Removes very high-frequency components not needed.
3. Signal enters the Mixer
o Mixer combines RF input + signal from Voltage Tuned Oscillator (VTO).
o Output = difference frequency ⇒ Intermediate Frequency (IF).
4. IF Amplifier
o Amplifies only the IF frequency (fixed, easy to design).
5. Detector
o Converts AC → DC (amplitude of IF).
6. Detector output goes to CRO
o Vertical plate = amplitude
o Sweep generator controls horizontal movement (frequency sweep)
✔ Where it is used
• RF communication
• TV, radar, satellites
• Cellular networks
• EMI/EMC testing