Recorded data integrity when signal strength is above or below the display level

Hi all,

I often record SignalHound BB60C data using Spike, and perform further analysis with various Python scripts afterwards. If while I’m recording data with Spike, the trace amplitude is above (or below) the limits of the display window in Spike, does that impact the recorded data at all? I realize that there is an issue if IF overload occurs, and I avoid that. I’m just wondering if, absent IF overload, my trace data don’t fit within the display range, if that negatively impacts the integrity of the recorded trace data in the .bbr files.

Thanks.

Andy

Hi Andy,

Whether or not if the data is within view on the graticule does not affect the recordings, the data will still be recorded properly. For the best dynamic range, it is ideal to have the signal near but not exceeding the top of the graticule (i.e. input power equal to or slightly less than the reference level), otherwise you should be OK.

Let us know if you have further questions or need clarifications.

Regards

Great, thanks very much, Cory.

Andy

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