Electronic Military & Defense Annual Resource, 4th Edition
37
magnetic compass and GPS simplifies recording directional
bearings while reducing the need for map reading. Further, a
trigger on the antenna handle makes it simple to add a vector
line to a signal of interest on a map.
Battlefield And Covert Spectrum Monitoring
Terror cells and other guerrilla-type militias rely on
communicating via hidden signals to plan and execute
attacks. In the past, signals have been cloaked by various
means, including placing them next to a large signal or
using spread spectrum technology to create low probability
of detection (LPOD) signals. Recently, digital modulation
formats have provided a different means for signals to be
hidden in plain sight. Sometimes the hidden transmitter will
do a very good job of emulating a base station, so other,
more traditional means will need to be employed to find the
transmitter.
Again, a handheld spectrum analyzer can be used by
military and defense agencies in these scenarios. Spectrum
analyzers allow signals to be monitored and nonencrypted
transmissions to be heard, so the necessary defense and
security measures can be taken. Remote spectrum monitoring
is particularly useful when tracking down these hidden
signals, many of which are intermittent. This capability
allows a handheld spectrum analyzer to be controlled from a
distance, which could be necessary for soldier safety.
Performance is only half the equation in military
applications. Durability is also a necessity. Handheld
spectrum analyzers used for defense purposes must feature a
rugged design in explosive atmospheres. Given the location
of many current operations, extreme temperature is another
concern, making it imperative that the analyzers have a wide
operating temperature, such as -10˚ to +55˚ C. Long battery
life is also important, given the length of time soldiers are
on patrol.
Conclusion
The rules of warfare continue to change. The proliferation of
wireless technologies to deploy missions, launch weapons,
and maintain communications between forces has placed
greater importance on eliminating jammers and other
interferers. Additionally, terrorist groups are using hidden
signal techniques to plan and initiate attacks. Handheld
spectrum analyzers, with their spectrum monitoring and
interference detection capability, have become valuable tools
for enabling successful military operations and ensuring the
safety of soldiers and citizenry.
Technology
Eric Hakanson, senior product manager at Anritsu, has more than
30 years of experience in electronic instrumentation. He currently
specializes in interference hunting, modulation measurements,
and handheld spectrum analyzers. A graduate of Virginia Tech
(BSEE), he is also a member of AOC and AFCEA.
micro-patterned flters | sensors | cameras
Contact an application engineer:
info@pixelteq.com
+1 727.545.0741
Real-time
Multispectral
Imaging
pixelteq.com