As I am getting closer to retirement I have been thinking about
buying a used spectrum analyzer since I will not have access to
one at work. Unfortunately I am not familiar with all the
models from say 5 to 15 years ago. Is there a good reference
describing the different HP/Agilent, Tektronix, etc. models and
which are good and which to avoid. A quick look on Ebay shows
HP 4195A, 8561E, 8562A, 8562B, 8563E,8565A, 8568B,8569B, 8591E,
8593E, and 8594E. Similarly for Tektronix 492P, 494P, 495P,
495A, and 2755P. Is there some kind of a used buyers guide
available. I understand spectrum analyzers at a moderate level
and realize the differences between frequency range, external
mixers, dynamic range, bandwidth etc. but finding the specs in a
manner that makes them comparable is hard. Thanks for any advice.


Larry, can't really offer any guidelines to your search, but wanted to
mention that you should add IFR model A7550 to your list. I have used
these for many years prior to retirement and they are a great instrument.
Every so often I see one going quite cheap on Ebay.


Ed K7AAT