Anritsu ME538K Microwave System Analyzer

The Anritsu ME538K Microwave System Analyzer measures transmission line characteristics across 70 MHz and 140 MHz intermediate frequency bands, with baseband support down to nine selectable low frequencies. Purpose-built for terrestrial microwave radio relay and satellite communication systems, it characterizes FDM-FM systems, digital microwave links, and INTELSAT equipment through comprehensive IF and BB band analysis. The instrument delivers amplitude response, return loss, frequency deviation, AM/PM conversion, group delay, and modulator/demodulator linearity measurements.

Transmitter settings - deviation, sweep width, center frequency - display on a 5-digit LED readout. Receiver configuration includes automatic calibration, attenuation control, and deviation measurement via direct P-P pushbutton selection. Dual display architecture combines CRT trace output with large LED parameter readout for real-time signal monitoring and measurement results.

Signal processing includes averaging for noise rejection, signal subtraction to eliminate instrument and cable artifacts, and automatic CRT calibration with ranging. Threshold extension enables low C/N measurements critical for satellite systems. Auto Sweep Reduction limits maximum sweep width during operation.

Baseband frequency selection spans nine fixed options per model, with Option 05 providing user-configurable 55.6 kHz or 27.8 kHz capability. The analyzer measures IF and BB band power, gain, and loss; differential gain and phase characteristics; and receiver sensitivity with full automatic control of IF level, BB frequency, and attenuation.

Technical Specifications

• 70 MHz band: 45 to 95 MHz


• 140 MHz band: 90 to 190 MHz


• Baseband frequencies: Nine fixed options; Option 05 adds 55.6 kHz or 27.8 kHz (user-specified)


• Measurement set: IF/BB amplitude response, return loss, frequency deviation, AM/PM conversion, DC characteristics, power/gain/loss, group delay, linearity, sensitivity, differential gain/phase, transmitter deviation/sweep/center frequency, receiver deviation/IF level/BB frequency/level


• Display: CRT with alphanumeric and trace; LED display for parameters; 5-digit LED for transmitter settings


• Signal processing: Averaging, subtraction, auto CRT calibration, direct deviation measurement, threshold extension, Auto Sweep Reduction

Key Features

• Automatic receiver settings and display calibration


• LED readout for transmitter parameters


• Direct P-P deviation measurement pushbutton


• Signal subtraction eliminates residual measurement instrument effects


• Threshold extension for low C/N satellite equipment analysis

Typical Applications

• FDM-FM relay system characterization


• High-efficiency digital microwave communication analysis


• INTELSAT and satellite system measurement


• Terrestrial microwave radio relay commissioning and maintenance

Compatibility & Integration Supports both 70 MHz and 140 MHz IF band operation. Baseband flexibility accommodates legacy and modern satellite communication standards through selectable frequency options.