Re: [IRCA] Spectrographs

["W. Curt Deegan" <WWWR@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Jim,

I love playing with spectrum display programs.  I use them for 
various reasons on the different bands and with different signal modes.

I've collected several:
Sprectrogram (both the free and pay versions)
Spectran
SR5 Spectrum Analyzer
Spectrum Lab

Of these, Spectrum Lab is the most complex.  I've only had it for a 
short while and have not had nearly enough time to even begin to 
understand its full potential.  I have little doubt it can do 
everything any of the others that I list can, but only with a steep 
learning curve.  Probably not the place to start.

SR5 Spectrum Analyzer on the other hand doesn't seem to provide the 
functions of the others, though it is a good software DSP.  I've had 
this for some time but never seem to go to it for what I would 
consider spectrum analyzer applications.

Spectran is a very popular program which is one of the two I 
generally turn to.  It is a bit more difficult to set up when moving 
back and forth with different signal types.  For measuring the 
frequencies of carriers and hets, this program is excellent.  My 
version (2.0 build 213) tends to lock-up at times when changing 
settings on the fly, but a quick shut-down and restart has it going 
again fairly quickly.  This no doubt contributes to my assessment 
that it is more difficult to use when switching between signal modes.

Spectrogram (Free version 5.0.6) is a very nice, easy to use program 
which can be quickly called into service to look at a het or 
beacon.  In fact though, it is a bit too simple at times, not 
providing measurement capabilities on a par with other 
programs.  Some download sites still have earlier versions (4.2) of 
the free program which have even more constraints and also more bugs.

Spectrogram (Pay version 14.4) is almost as simple to use as the free 
version, but is much more capable and more reliable in its 
operations.  This is my other spectrum program of choice.  I only 
just got this version and find more and more I go to it first for a 
quick look at signals.  Last night when it was mentioned Radio Reloj 
had been heard on 780, this is the program I fired up to look for the 
1000 Hz TOM beep and 1800 Hz RR in Morse code.  If I need more 
precision in measuring the signal, then I would turn to Spectran and 
take the time to set it up for those measurements.

This is not intended to be an exhaustive list, just the ones I have 
and therefore am somewhat familiar with.  Not included are some 
programs that incorporate spectrum displays as an adjunct to their 
other functions.  Nor have I attempted to evaluate these programs 
based on cost.  For the price, one of these might be considered a far 
better buy even though I've suggested the opposite when just looking 
at function.

It would take me a while to dig out links for all of these, but if 
there are one or two you can't find, let me know.  Same goes for any 
questions my comments may have raised.

Bottom line, if you only get one and want good flexibility and 
function, with a moderate learning curve, then Spectran is probably 
that one program.  But as I say, my first choice with more than one 
program available to me, for the quick look, is the product version 
of Spectrogram.  How's that for wishy washy?

Curt
-------
W. Curt Deegan
Boca Raton, (southeast) Florida


At 10:31 AM 12/20/2006, you wrote:
>I have seen lots of folks referring to using Spectrographs to detect and
>analyze weak signals, splits, etc. I'm convinced that this is something I'd
>like to have, and with a brand new laptop, I think it's time acquire this.
>Sadly, I know nothing about who makes this kind of software, if there is
>more than one product available, etc. Help! What's the best product in your
>opinion (if there is indeed more than one), where can I get the best price,
>etc.? As always, thanks for the great advice that I know will come.
>
>
>
>Jim Pogue KH2AR/WPE9HLJ/KG6DX1A
>
>Memphis, Tennessee USA
>
>
>
>NRD-535, ICF-2010
>
>Wellbrook LA5030 loop, attic longwire
>
>Quantum phaser


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