The tinySA (tiny Spectrum Analyzer) is a very small (10x6x1,5 cm) versatile and affordable spectrum analyzer and signal generator designed for analyzing and measuring RF (radio frequency) signals.
Key Features of tinySA
Frequency Ranges:
- Low Input Mode: 100 kHz to 350 MHz.
- High Input Mode: 240 MHz to 960 MHz.
- Optional ranges for advanced models (tinySA ULTRA) up to 6 GHz.
Signal Generator:
- Generates sine waves in Low Mode (0.1 MHz to 350 MHz).
- Generates square waves in High Mode (240 MHz to 960 MHz).
- Adjustable output amplitude for testing signal sensitivity.
Display and Interface:
- A 2.8-inch color display with up to 290 scan points for seamless frequency coverage.
- Touchscreen navigation (on newer models) for easier control.
- Menu-driven interface with accessible settings and real-time feedback.
Resolution Bandwidth Filters:
- Selectable filters for resolution bandwidth: 3 kHz to 600 kHz.
- Automatic selection from up to 57 available resolution filters.
- Provides a balance between speed and signal detail.
Scanning Speed:
- Fast scan rates over 1,000 points per second with larger resolution filters.
- Optimized for real-time analysis of dynamic signals.
Signal Analysis Features:
- Spur Suppression: Helps identify if signals are internally generated or part of the input.
- Audio Demodulation: Supports AM signal demodulation and audio output with modifications.
- Measurement of signal harmonics and power levels.
Enhanced Variants:
- tinySA Ultra:
- Larger 4-inch display.
- Extended frequency range up to 6 GHz.
- Improved sensitivity and faster processing.
- Additional tools for high-frequency signal analysis.
Applications of tinySA
RF Signal Analysis:
- Measure signal strength, frequency, and noise levels.
- Detect and analyze interference in RF systems.
Educational Use:
- Perfect for teaching RF fundamentals, spectrum analysis, and signal generation in educational labs.
- Hands-on experience with real-time data and signal patterns.
Fieldwork:
- Portable size and battery power make it ideal for outdoor testing and on-site troubleshooting.
- Quick identification of signal sources and interference.
Electronic and Communication Testing:
- Debugging RF circuits.
- Testing filters, antennas, and wireless communication systems.
- Evaluating the performance of transmitters and receivers.
Advanced Features in tinySA Ultra
Frequency Range:
Covers 100 kHz to 6 GHz, making it suitable for modern wireless standards like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular bands.
Improved Display:
High-resolution 4-inch display provides clearer data visualization and better touch controls.
Customizable Interface:
Enhanced menu and navigation options for advanced signal processing.
USB Connectivity:
- Allows PC-based control and data logging.
- Firmware upgrades for extended features and better performance.
Setup and Operation
Getting Started:
- Download the latest firmware. and user manual from the official site if the firmware that appears on the screen is a lower version than the latest version of the official website.
- Charge the device and connect it via USB to your PC until the red light next to the USB socket turns off.
- Perform the SELF TEST. Power tinySA via USB cable and USB charger. Perform the SELF TEST by connecting one of the cables to the SMA HIGH and LOW outputs, then click on the screen CONFIG > SELF TEST.
If the test returns this error
causes may be:
test performed without USB power supply
strong interference
- Perform the CALIBRATION. It is a good practice, to avoid interference with electrostatic charges of some of your clothes, do not touch with your hands tinySA and its golden connectors while you perform the calibration, but use the pick or the small black pen supplied. Calibrate always with the cable connected to two male SMA outputs HIGH and LOW outputs, then click on the screen CONFIG > LEVEL CAL > CALIBRATE.
Input Configuration:
- Select Low Mode or High Mode depending on the frequency range.
- Connect the signal source to the appropriate input port (SMA connectors).
Be careful not to exceed the -10dB threshold, otherwise you could damage the tinySA. If you're not sure, insert an attenuator.
Scanning and Analysis:
- Set the frequency range and resolution bandwidth.
- Run scans and observe results on the display.
Signal Generation:
- Switch to signal generator mode to produce test signals. Be careful not to create frequency interference, so perform the operations in a controlled environment.
- Configure output frequency and amplitude.
Resources
Official Documentation:
- Comprehensive user manual and firmware updates available at https://tinysa.org/
Tutorials and Guides:
- Step-by-step guides and application examples provided in community forums (https://groups.io/g/tinysa) and video tutorials.
Community Support:
- Active user base for troubleshooting, tips, and sharing practical use cases.
tinySA 
