User guide

Field Strength Measurement

Field Strength measures the signals reaching an antenna. The SignalHawk automatically

corrects the sweep data for the antenna’s gain and frequency dependence and displays

it in dBm / m.

1. Connect an antenna connected to the RF In connector on the

SignalHawk.

Note: Use an antenna with known gain characteristics. For best

accuracy, set the start and stop frequencies to the measurement

range of the chosen antenna.

2. Press the Antenna button and select the antenna type from the drop down list.

Note: The antenna type, valid frequency range, and gain in dB

(relative to an isotropic radiator) are shown in the measurement

settings area.

Note: Custom antennas may be added to the list. See “Customizing

SignalHawk Content” on page 129

3. Measure the strength of the signal emanating from a transmission antenna

(within the frequency range of the antenna connected to the RF In port).

4. Move to various positions relative to the transmitting source and observe

the signal value.

Figure 76 Example, Field Signal Strength

Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI)

RSSI provides an audible indication at the frequency of the current marker. It will beep

faster as the received signal strength goes up and slows as it goes down.

Similar to Water Fall, power is linearly mapped to a range of 0-210 using the

same range as for the Water Fall for simplicity. The beep rate and volume are

proportional to the mapped power value at the current marker index. Values of

zero are equivalent to continuous beeps and -210 are equivalent to a beep

every 4 seconds.

Measurement

Settings

STEP 2