R&S®CA120

Multichannel Signal
Analysis Software
Automatic multichannel detection, classification,
demodulation and decoding of communications signals

Product Brochure | Version 11.00

R&S®CA120 The R&S®CA120 applications run on a modular, easy-to-
maintain signal processing unit architecture that is coupled
with advanced Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receivers. The

Multichannel Signal powerful classifier automatically d­ etermines the technical

signal parameters upon request and delivers the measured
parameters to the demodulator/decoder or transmission

Analysis Software system. The content is recovered and saved for recognized
signal types. Signals that are classified as unknown can be
recorded digitally for more in-depth analysis.

At a glance A detect, search and classify application supports fully

­automatic interception and monitoring of fixed frequency
and burst signals. Detected signals are measured and clas-
R&S®CA120 is a flexible and automatic multichannel sified and can be automatically reported, recorded and de-
solution for detecting, classifying and processing modulated/decoded depending on the signal type.
radiocommunications signals. R&S®CA120 supports
Multiple signals and wideband signal scenarios can be
a wide spectrum of applications ranging from simultaneously recorded in the form of digital I/Q data and
manual signal processing and analysis of an reprocessed during subsequent replay.
individual signal to fully automatic recognition and
processing of signals in a wideband signal scenario. Key facts
❙❙ Support of automatic interception and monitoring of
complete signal scenarios
❙❙ Powerful classifier and extensive signal processing library
with demodulators and decoders
❙❙ Configurable detection of fixed frequency, burst and
frequency agile short-time signals with subsequent
automatic processing of detected signals (including
content recovery depending on signal type)
❙❙ Processing of wideband signal scenarios
■■ HF: up to 20 MHz per receiver

■■ VHF/UHF: up to 80 MHz per receiver

❙❙ Modular scalability from four-channel to n-channel signal

processing solution (n > 100)
❙❙ Open interface for independent extension of signal
processing capabilities by the user and integration into
existing system solutions

2
Benefits High-speed spectral shape search
▷ page 12

Reduced user workload due to automatic

Flexible use with signal interception and manual processing of detected signals
signal measurement ▷ page 14
▷ page 4
Simultaneous recording or replay of multiple
Automatic classification to support the user signals
▷ page 6 ▷ page 16

­Extensive ­transmission system library ­Scalable architecture for optimum adaptation

▷ page 7 ▷ page 18

Diverse o
­ pportunities for user-specific ­expansion Hardware-­accelerated ­multichannel signal
▷ page 8 processing with R&S®ESME/ESMD/DDF260/
DDF255/DDF550/DDF5GTS
­ ast and r­ eliable simultaneous ­processing of
F ▷ page 20
­multiple signals
▷ page 9 Integration into existing systems with minimal
effort
Automatic analysis of frequency agile short-time ▷ page 22
signals in wideband signal scenarios
▷ page 11

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 3

Flexible use with Processing of signals from different sources
R&S®CA120 uses interception processing channels (IPC) to
process individual signals. An IPC processes the following

signal interception input data:

❙❙ Digital I/Q data supplied in realtime by state-of-the-art
Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receivers/direction finders

and manual signal ❙❙ Digital I/Q data replayed offline from a signal recording
❙❙ Data in WAV format which is imported as WAV files and
replayed offline

measurement The metadata embedded in the digital I/Q data stream

format used by Rohde & Schwarz, such as precise time-
stamps and frequency and bandwidth information, is also
For every received signal, R&S®CA120 performs evaluated during signal processing.
spectrum computation, audio demodulation,
I/Q data recording/replay and measurement of
fundamental signal parameters. This applies to
individual signals and to complete, wideband signal
scenarios that are received.

Spectrum/waterfall of a 1 MHz wide HF scenario

4
Signal processing for visual presentation and Manual signal measurement for complex signal
audio output scenarios
A realtime spectrum is computed for each signal using a The manual measurement of signal parameters such as
fast Fourier transform (FFT). An audio demodulator makes bandwidth, signal duration and S/N ratio is supported.
it possible to listen to (analog) signals and save the audio A filter that can be set manually is used to eliminate all
data in digital format. ­interfering out-of-band emissions and noise.

Digital recording and replay for further use of The data from the time domain analysis (higher-order
received signals spectrum, envelope, instantaneous frequency) enables the
I/Q data recording means that the digital I/Q data for one manual measurement of the technical parameters of an
or more signals is saved on a recording/replay unit. This emission (e.g. level range, frequency shift, symbol rate).
data is then available for subsequent replay in R&S®CA120
or for export (archiving, analysis and processing outside of For more in-depth signal analysis, the signal can be re-
R&S®CA120). corded and transferred to an offline signal analysis solution
(see the R&S®GX410 or R&S®CA210 solutions for technical
signal analysis).

Spectrum/waterfall and time ­domain analysis provide the basis for further investigating a signal

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 5

Automatic The classification algorithm performs segmentation and
modulation analysis. Segmentation determines the signal's
exact center frequency and bandwidth. Subsequent auto-

classification to matic modulation analysis determines the modulation type

along with relevant modulation parameters such as sym-
bol rate, frequency shift and number of OFDM channels.

support the user After modulation analysis has been performed, automatic
transmission system recognition is initiated. Especially
with complex classes of signals such as P ­ ACTOR III and
When unknown signals are encountered, STANAG 4285, this involves the identification of signal-spe-
R&S®CA120 supports the user by providing a cific characteristics such as frame structures, bit patterns
and operational modes. Alternatively, pure bitstream clas-
powerful classifier that allows automatic detection
sification is performed based on the symbol stream of a
and recognition of modulation type and transmission universal demodulator that is applied (e.g. FSK2 – ­Baudot,
system. During monitoring, the classifier supports multitone – Piccolo MK12).
recognition of known signal types.
The measured modulation and transmission system pa-
rameters can be used to directly set the parameters for the
Powerful classifier demodulator/decoder so that the content can be recov-
R&S®CA120 includes a powerful automatic classifier for ered and saved. If all that is recognized is the type of mod-
determining the modulation type, measuring ­technical ulation, a universal demodulator can be used to recover a
parameters and identifying the transmission system symbol stream that is saved for subsequent channel cod-
of a wide range of analog and digital signals. For a list ing analysis (e.g. with R&S®CA250 bitstream analysis).
of all modulation types and transmission systems that
can be recognized, see the R&S®CA120 data sheet User-specific expansion of classification
(PD 3606.9327.22). Rohde & Schwarz is working continu- capabilities
ally to expand this transmission system library. Bitstream classification involves the use of user-developed
decoders. It is also possible to integrate and employ a
user-developed modulation type or transmission system
classifier in R&S®CA120 (see page 8).

Wideband classification
The classifier in combination with the wideband snapshot
access option (R&S®CA120WSN) – connected, for exam-
ple, to an R&S®ESME or R&S®ESMD wideband monitor-
ing receiver – uses the receiver’s internal wideband snap-
shot buffer to classify wideband signals (e.g. DVB-T, LTE or
WLAN 802.11a/g/n) in up to 80 MHz bandwidth.

The classifier automatically detects numerous transmission systems Classification of a WLAN signal with 22 MHz bandwidth

6
­Extensive Manual or automatic demodulation and decoding
The demodulators and decoders or transmission systems
are selected manually by the user or automatically by the

­transmission classifier.

Universal demodulators (e.g. FSK2, PSK4, multitone) pro-

system library vide a bit data stream that can be processed in a select-
able decoder or saved in a file for subsequent bitstream
analysis (e.g. using R&S®CA250 bitstream analysis).

R&S®CA120 provides the demodulators and Depending on the type of encoding (e.g. ASCII, Baudot,
decoders needed to recover the content of numerous Coquelet, fax), the decoder delivers the content data in a
format suitable for visual presentation and storage, e.g.
signal types.
plain text, structured text or graphical image data.

Transmission systems even for complex classes of

signals
Content recovery from complex classes of signals requires
the use of a suitable transmission system (e.g. PACTOR III,
CODAN 3012). For a list of all types of demodulators,
decoders and transmission systems contained in
R&S®CA120, see the R&S®CA120 data sheet
(PD 3606.9327.22). Rohde & Schwarz is working continu-
ously to expand this transmission system library.

Content recovery from METEOSAT Wefax and CODAN 3012 signals

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 7

Diverse Integration of a wide variety of user-programmed
module types
The following types of modules can be integrated:

­opportunities ❙❙ Receiver control: The user module functions as a receiver

driver for a third-party monitoring receiver. It converts the
receiver commands from R&S®CA120 into commands

for user-specific for the other receiver and converts the receiver's digital
I/Q data into a format that R&S®CA120 can process
❙❙ Universal demodulation: The user module expands the

­expansion universal demodulator library available with R&S®CA120.

Based on the I/Q data stream for a signal, it performs
demodulation and provides a symbol stream for further
processing
R&S®CA120 allows the user to integrate user- ❙❙ Decoding: The user module expands the decoder
programmed modules for signal processing (receiver library available with R&S®CA120. Using a universal
demodulator in R&S®CA120, the user module functions
driver, classifier, demodulator, decoder). As a result,
as a decoder, i.e. it decodes the demodulated symbol
users can deploy their own expertise in solutions in data stream and recovers information content. This
an independent manner. is applicable to decoders that have fixed modulation
parameters but different encoding types for the content
❙❙ Transmission system: The user module expands the
Open programming interface for integration of transmission system library available with R&S®CA120.
user-specific modules It functions as an independent transmission system
R&S®CA120 supports various Rohde & Schwarz monitoring in order to demodulate/decode the I/Q data stream
receivers/­direction finders and contains a comprehensive from a monitoring receiver and recover the content.
library of universal demodulators, decoders and transmis- This is necessary with signal types for which a solution
sion systems. Moreover, the user can program diverse involving a universal demodulator and decoder is not
signal processing modules for integration into and use feasible. This includes adaptive transmission systems
with the R&S®CA120 multichannel signal analysis system. (e.g. CLOVER 2000 and PACTOR III) in which certain
R&S®CA120 has an open, documented application pro- information in the decoded data stream must result
gramming interface (API) for this purpose. in immediate changes to the demodulator settings,
as well as transmission systems that require specific
R&S®CA120 provides a C++ interface for integrating user equalization/synchronization
modules. User modules can contain components written ❙❙ Classification: In manual mode, the user can integrate
in other programming languages such as C or MATLAB®. a signal classification module instead of a universal
demodulator module. This user module functions as
a modulation type/transmission system recognizer in
addition to the classifier provided by Rohde & Schwarz

The user can program and integrate user-specific decoders in C++ pro- Results delivered by the user-specific modules (here a decoder)
gramming language are visualized in the graphical user interface

8
­Fast and ­reliable Manual parallel processing of multiple signals,
even by several users
Frequently, the realtime bandwidth of a monitoring receiv-

simultaneous er simultaneously contains multiple signals. If R&S®CA120

obtains the I/Q data for such a scenario from the receiver,
the user can downconvert these signals with the aid of

­processing of DDCs and then manually process them in parallel. The in-
dividual DDCs can set their center frequencies and band-
widths within the limits of the processable realtime band-

­multiple signals width of the monitoring receiver. The downconverted

signals are processed by one or more users with the aid
of interception processing channels (audio demodulation,
classification, demodulation/decoding and recording).
R&S®CA120 has an automatic detector that enables
the user to scan or monitor frequency ranges
automatically for fixed frequency and burst signals.

The automatic detection functionality informs the user about signals and events of potential interest

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 9

Automatic detection of fixed frequency and burst Detection threshold and ignoring of frequency
signals for fast and dependable results ranges
In addition to its manual mode, R&S®CA120 provides a The automatically computed detection threshold adapts to
high level of automation for detecting and monitoring fixed the variable noise floor that is typical of a specific frequen-
frequency and burst signals. A detection result is generat- cy range.
ed for every detected signal that meets the predefined se-
lection criteria (signal duration, bandwidth, level, etc.). In scenarios where certain signals or frequency ranges are
of no interest, a list of frequency ranges to ignore can be
The detection results are cyclically compared with the included in the detector algorithms. The detectors will then
­signal scenario from the previous processing cycles. not generate messages for signals in these ranges.
The following events are reported:
❙❙ New signal (signal level over threshold for first time) Detection using a scanning receiver
❙❙ Change in characteristics of a known signal (activity When using a scanning receiver instead of a wideband re-
status, change in level, bandwidth or center frequency) ceiver in fixed frequency mode (as described above), the
❙❙ Inactive signal (signal level falls below detection receiver is operated in scan mode, which means it can
threshold) cover any frequency range. The automatic detector oper-
❙❙ End of signal ates in the scan spectrum and detects signals as described
above. Short burst signals and frequency agile short-time
Detected signals are classified automatically. The user can signals can only be detected with a wideband receiver in
select the optimum strategy for a particular scenario from fixed frequency mode, not with a scanning receiver
a list of different strategies.
To process (e.g. classify) detected signals automatically,
For content recovery, the user can manually select signals digital downconverters are used to extract signals if the
from the list of detected/classified signals and start de- ­receiver is in fixed frequency mode. As this is not possible
modulation/decoding with the measured parameters. The with a scanning receiver, physical handoff receivers set to
user can also configure a rule-based automated workflow the relevant frequencies are used instead of digital down-
that independently handles the processing of the relevant converters to process the signals of interest.
signals (see next page).

High-performance detection of FSK2 signals

The correlative detector optimizes the detection of
weak and specific FSK2 signals with very high reliability.
Preknowledge of the included bit sequence and user-
definable modulation parameters enable the correlative
detector to monitor and search for targeted FSK2 signals
within a wideband spectrum. The detected signals will be
further analyzed to determine the payload, etc. The cor-
relative detector is extremely beneficial for users who want
to effectively detect predefined FSK2 signals.

10
Automatic analysis Detection of frequency agile short-time signals
Frequency agile short-time signals are detected by a short-
time signal detector that has been optimized for this task.

of frequency agile The short-time emissions are analyzed to determine the

relevant technical parameters (e.g. duration, bandwidth,
level, modulation) of each individual hop, making it pos-

short-time signals sible to classify the short-time emissions. The results in

statistical histograms give the user a full overview of fre-
quency agile communications in a wideband signal sce-

in wideband signal nario. The histograms provide several measurement tools

that allow the user to determine the types of active fre-
quency agile transmission systems and the number of ac-

scenarios tive emitters.

Automatic profile separation

Frequency agile short-time signals are separated to de-
R&S®CA120 features a powerful detector for short- termine how many transmitting devices are active. The
time signals in the HF and VHF/UHF frequency separator tries to cluster the hops by their measured tech-
nical parameters such as duration, modulation type and
range. The detected short-time signals are
modulation parameters. Additional parameters such as
automatically analyzed, sorted and matched to hop rate (number of bursts per second) and coverage are
transmissions system profiles and can optionally be determined. The user can define profiles of frequency agile
recombined to a continuous signal. transmission systems with their relevant technical param-
eters. For each cluster of hops the separator will automati-
cally match the profiles to the estimated hop parameters.
This profile recognition and activity analysis of the trans-
mitting devices may be used (outside of R&S®CA120) for
network analysis of frequency agile communications.

Online recombination of frequency agile short-

time signals
Automatic profile separation separates all detected hops
coming from one emitter. Using the precise measured
start times of the hops, the frequency agile signal can be
recombined to a continuous signal at the I/Q baseband
level. These I/Q data streams can be recorded for later
analysis or immediately demodulated with analog or digi-
tal demodulators. R&S®CA120 contains optimized FSK and
PSK demodulators for recombined hopper signals.

Frequency agile communications can be detected, analyzed and automati-

5 MHz wide VHF scenario including two hopper signals with different hop cally assigned to an already known transmission system profile. The signal
duration/hop rate is recombined and demodulated.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 11

High-speed spectral Enhancement of detect, search and classify
workflows using detection list filtering
The spectral shape detector is designed to obtain opti-

shape search mized results and is especially useful for the following
applications:
❙❙ Filtering spectral shapes of interest (e.g. identifying
only those signals with a spectral shape that matches
R&S®CA120 excels in detecting and identifying the shapes of signals of interest) before a baseband
spectral shapes of interest within a wide, densely classifier/demodulator/decoder optionally starts analyzing
and processing them in more detail
populated scenario.
❙❙ Filtering out known and even unknown spectral shapes
that are not of interest and do not need to be analyzed or
Fast recognition of signals using spectral processed in depth
matching ❙❙ Extending the list of recognizable signals based on user-
The spectral shape detector is designed to search for defined categories
known and unknown signals by performing spectral pat-
tern matching. It is very fast and customizable (i.e. it The detector includes a database of spectral shapes, the
searches for signals of interest as specified by the user). spectral reference library. The patterns in the database
The decisions of the matching algorithm are based on can either be specific user-defined signal types with cor-
many criteria within a comprehensive decision matrix, responding parameters, or predefined as generic signal
which allows the similarities between input signals and types (i.e. CW, AM‑DSB, multichannel and FSK signals).
shape description sets to be reliably assessed. Owing to
this unique algorithm, the spectral shape detector can op- To increase the robustness of the detector, several differ-
erate effectively across wide frequency ranges, dense sig- ent instances of the same signal category are gathered
nal scenarios, and even under harsh radio conditions. and processed by the spectral collector. These are used by
the spectral detector trainer, which “learns” to recognize
Fast recognition of spectral shapes has two other and define these shapes in order to develop the spectral
advantages: reference library. After this “training” phase has been com-
❙❙ Known shapes of interest can be captured quickly pleted, the detector is able to work with the live spectrum
(effective search) (the receiver can be in fixed frequency or scanning mode).
❙❙ Known shapes that are not of interest can be ignored
(efficient search)

Both capabilities will significantly speed up the work of a

surveillance operator and are greatly beneficial for quick
search applications.

Thanks to its high speed, the use of predefined shapes and

the new search algorithm, the spectral shape detector pro-
vides the following features:
❙❙ Rapid: It accelerates spectral search by analyzing 1000
spectral shapes in less than 1 s
❙❙ Robust: It excels in dealing with varying and complex
signal scenarios, by considering noise, fading and
shifting sampling rates
❙❙ Reliable: It aims to effectively detect signals with distinct
spectral shapes (e.g. CW, AM-DSB, multichannel and
FSK signals) and also improves the reliability by feeding
the recognized spectral shapes to the baseband classifier
❙❙ Reconfigurable: It enables users to define signal
categories and configurations that suit their own wishes
and needs
The conventional energy detector is combined with a high-performance
spectral shape detector to enhance signal search and recognition. The
lower part of the screenshot shows the result of matching the library of
generic and user-defined signal types using the spectral shape detector.

12
Spectral collector and spectral detector trainer In order to train the detector, the user decides which sig-
The spectral collector is a fully automatic application for nal types are of interest, collects the corresponding sam-
identifying and collecting a reasonable number of signals ple data and defines the desired signal categories. It is
(based on live or offline spectrum) that are suited for train- also possible to automatically create a training collection
ing purposes. Based on an automatic algorithm, it selects using the spectral detector trainer. Each signal category
and gathers a number of spectral shapes that are repre- is represented by a reasonable number of spectral shapes
sentative of the signal of interest. These spectral shapes (approx. 30) and defined in the spectral reference library.
vary because they have been computed at different times The training is carried out based on a list of shape-describ-
(i.e. within a few seconds of the selection time). The spec- ing features derived from the signals within the spectral
tral collector also manages the repeated collection of dif- reference library. In order to achieve a more reliable detec-
ferent emissions associated with the same signal category. tion, the set of reference shapes used for training should
include examples of degraded signals. This makes shape
The spectral detector trainer is a standalone application detection more robust against negative influences such as
for extracting relevant spectral information and identify- noise and fading.
ing certain signal types based on a set of spectral sample
data. The extracted spectral features define a specific cate- Based on the input data from the spectral reference ­library,
gory of signals. This information is used by the detector to the spectral detector trainer creates a profile for the de-
recognize signals with similar spectral characteristics dur- tector for each signal category. Using an automatic deci-
ing a spectral shape search. sion algorithm, the detector evaluates how well each de-
tected signal matches the characteristics of the trained
categories.

Spectral detector trainer

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 13

Reduced user Automatic monitoring of wide frequency ranges
The most impressive benefit of R&S®CA120 is the combi-
nation of automatic detection and classification with fully

workload due automated processing of signals (demodulation, decoding,

recording). This allows R&S®CA120 to independently moni-
tor a wide frequency range and eliminate many routine

to automatic tasks for the user.

The user defines a set of rules. For each signal, these rules

processing of are used to automatically and independently perform the

­following actions:
❙❙ Event triggering: The signal’s technical parameters are

detected signals associated with signal types of special interest. An event

notification is generated and sent to the user immediately
after recognition
❙❙ Recording: A snapshot of the signal (with predefinable
R&S®CA120 combines signal detection with length) is to be saved for subsequent processing. The
configurable, loss-free automatic processing digital I/Q data is saved on a recording/replaying unit. It
performs I/Q data recording of the fixed frequency signal
(classification, demodulation, decoding, content
as well as wideband I/Q data recording (with defined
recovery, recording). duration)

Application example of fully automatic signal processing

Signal classified

Start audio demodulation with

No Analog fixed frequency signal Yes appropriate modulation type
PACTOR III transmission
system recognized? (AM, FM, SSB) recognized? (AM, FM, SSB) and record audio signal
(5 s duration)

Yes

Perform digital demodulation/decoding

of signal and save content
(until end of signal)

The user can simultaneously intercept various signal types with ¸CA120. Example: For detected analog signals, the audio data is recorded (5 s duration). ­
Detected digital PACTOR III signals are decoded until the end of the signal.

14
❙❙ Demodulation or demodulation/decoding: If the Fully automatic signal processing with user-
demodulators/decoders for the recognized transmission defined rules via script editor
system are found in the library of R&S®CA120, they are R&S®CA120 performs fully automatic processing using
configured with the measured parameters and started. JavaScript scripts to trigger actions that control what is
The signal content is recovered and saved. The maximum recorded or processed. These scripts make it possible to
duration of the content snapshot can be predefined. define conditions or criteria based on the relevant param-
Automatic processing includes the following: eters. When these conditions are met, the script triggers
■■ Audio demodulation: performs audio demodulation of the corresponding actions (predefined by the user). The
the fixed frequency signal and saves the audio data script can also decide when a signal will be skipped and
■■ Digital demodulation: performs digital demodulation of define how long a signal will be recorded if an action is
the fixed frequency signal and saves the symbol stream triggered.
data
■■ Digital demodulation/decoding: performs digital R&S®ScriptEditor provides an environment in which such
demodulation/decoding of the fixed frequency signal scripts can be written, tested and debugged. This tool
and saves the content has been designed to allow a straightforward approach
to script development and to reduce the effort involved in
­developing the scripts.

General overview of the R&S®ScriptEditor GUI, with the input fields that act as triggers (left), the central scripting
area where analysis is performed ­(center) and windows where analysis results are shown (right)

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 15

Simultaneous Enhanced capabilities through postprocessing of
recorded signals
Recording and subsequent replay of signal samples con-

recording or replay siderably expand the processing capabilities. The digital

I/Q data arriving from the receivers or interception pro-
cessing channels can be recorded in a loss-free manner.

of multiple signals This enables subsequent processing of signals that can-

not be analyzed online (e.g. due to the lack of person-
nel or resources when a signal of interest occurs). The
recorded signals can be exported from R&S®CA120 for
R&S®CA120 opens up additional applications to processing or archiving using offline analysis tools such
simultaneously record or replay multiple signals in as R&S®GX410 or R&S®CA210. The user can replay the re-
corded signals or signal scenarios in R&S®CA120 and pro-
the form of digital I/Q data.
cess them as if they were currently online. This i­ncludes
detection, classification, demodulation, decoding, record-
ing and automatic workflows.

An R&S®CA120REC recording/replay option for digital

I/Q data can simultaneously record (or replay) a single sig-
nal or multiple signals as a function of the selected record-
ing bandwidth. The modular design of R&S®CA120 makes
it possible to operate multiple recording/replay options
in parallel. In this manner, the system can be adapted to
meet the user's specific requirements for the number of
signals to be s­ imultaneously recorded or replayed.

One R&S®CA120REC recording/replay option per monitor-

ing receiver can be used to store and replay signal scenar-
ios with a bandwidth of up to 10 MHz in R&S®CA120. For
larger bandwidths (e.g. 20 MHz, 40 MHz or 80 MHz) that
can be processed using hardware-­accelerated signal pro-
cessing (see page 20), an external digital wideband stor-
age device such as the R&S®GX460 or R&S®GX465 is used
in addition.

16
Ring buffer for loss-free recording even with Fast, pinpoint navigation within signal recordings
delayed start R&S®CA120 offers convenient navigation through long
All R&S®CA120 interception processing channels have a ­signal recordings:
configurable ring buffer for storing a signal's behavior ver- ❙❙ Bookmarks can be set and comments entered during
sus time. When a recording is started, this ring buffer can recording. These bookmarks and comments are then
be included at the start of the recording. As a result, it is available during replay to facilitate navigation in the
possible to begin loss-free recording of any signal in the signal recording
past. This is necessary, for example, in cases where a user ❙❙ The ability to compute an overview spectrum (frozen
manually triggers recording after recognizing that a signal waterfall with time/frequency display) for a signal
is important. The response time until recording was start- recording simplifies the user’s job. The spectrogram
ed by the user is compensated by reading out the signal shows the content of the entire signal recording with
from the existing ring buffer. In this manner, the signal can reduced time resolution. As a result, it is possible to
seamlessly be recorded from where it started. quickly detect the relevant signal activity even in a long
signal recording and select only this time-limited section
Endless recordings are made by reserving a memory area of the signal for subsequent replay or export
with predefined size on the recording unit. This memo- ❙❙ The user can set the start and end point for digital replay
ry area is then used as a ring buffer. This ensures that at of a signal. The signal can be replayed once or in an
any instant (depending on the size of the memory that is infinite loop as often as desired
­reserved), the most recent seconds, minutes or hours of a
signal are available in the ring buffer without gaps so that Systematic management of recorded signals
the entire signal or a part thereof can be replayed if neces- Besides its recording and replay functions, R&S®CA120
sary. The limited size of the ring buffer prevents a single ­offers additional functions:
signal recording from using up the entire capacity of the ❙❙ Sortable listing of all recordings
recording system. ❙❙ Selection and deletion of recordings
❙❙ Write protection for important recordings
❙❙ Status of recording unit (occupied/available memory)
❙❙ Secure deletion of all recordings (multiple overwriting of
deleted data to ensure that no file fragments remain on
the hard disk)

Overview spectrogram: a signal recorded using the R&S®CA120REC option can be

­replayed for subsequent analysis

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 17

­Scalable Modular design
Due to its fully modular and configurable design,
R&S®CA120 can be matched precisely to the user's specif-

architecture for ic requirements. The user can select the number of signals
to be processed simultaneously and the necessary pro-
cessing depth (classification, demodulation, decoding).

optimum adaptation R&S®CA120 is connected to one or more of the advanced

Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receivers/direction finders.
Several of these monitoring receivers and direction find-
ers offer hardware-accelerated signal processing. For more
The modular design of R&S®CA120 allows fast details, see page 20. For a list of usable monitoring re-
determination of the applications and resources ceivers and direction finders as well as the supported I/Q
bandwidths, see the R&S®CA120 data sheet
needed to handle the current application cases.
(PD 3606.9327.22).
R&S®CA120 is optimally designed to grow with
the user's requirements, e.g. if a need arises for
additional interception processing channels or
processing of new signal types.

Applications and configuration options for R&S®CA120

Multichannel ­signal Single-channel Processing of Classification Decoder and Multichannel processing
analysis processing digital signals and wideband ­transmission system
classification
R&S®CA120 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120DM R&S®CA120CL, See R&S®CA120 R&S®CA120MCP option
option option R&S®CA120WSN data sheet
options (PD 3606.9327.22)
for overview

R&S®CA120 provides R&S®CA120FFP is R&S®CA120DM R&S®CA120CL enables A selection of d­ ecoder/ R&S®CA120MCP allows
the basis for all (op- configured for single- enables an an R&S®CA120FFP in- transmission sys- multichannel parallel processing
tional) signal process- channel processing of a R&S®CA120FFP terception ­processing tem packages is of a signal scenario. It receives the
ing appli­cations and all signal. A ­monitoring re- interception pro- channel to automati- ­available. Each of these digital I/Q data from a monitoring
necessary management ceiver, direction ­finder, cessing channel to cally measure and packages is an op- receiver, direction finder or a
functions (resource DDC or ­recording is demodulate digi- classify analog and tion for R&S®CA120 recording, computes the spectrum
management, license used as the signal tal transmission digital signals at the and enables an and provides a maximum of 32 DDCs.
management, ­error source. R&S®CA120FFP ­systems using the modulation and trans- R&S®CA120FFP inter- The DDCs can be set manually by
management, etc.). provides spectrum universal demodula- mission system lev- ception processing the user or automatically by the
computation, audio tor library. els. R&S®CA120DM is channel to decode spe- automated applications in order to
demodulation, time required. cific transmission sys- simultaneously process up to
domain analysis and R&S®CA120WSN en- tems. R&S®CA120DM is 32 signals from the signal scenario
an interface for signal ables R&S®CA120 to required. (classification, demodulation,
recording/replay. This classify wideband sig- decoding, recording). For this
results in a full-fea- nals up to 80 MHz purpose, an R&S®CA120FFP
tured solution for the bandwidth in online interception processing channel is
interception of analog mode. This option al- connected after each DDC.
signals (e.g. voice sig- lows the classifier to
nals). The ­maximum access the wideband
number of ­signals that snapshot buffer of
can be processed in the R&S®ESME or
parallel in R&S®CA120 R&S®ESMD monitoring
is determined by the receiver. R&S®CA120CL
number of available is required.
R&S®CA120FFP inter-
ception processing
channels.

18
Expandable resource concept The R&S®CA120 provides optional hardware components
Each R&S®CA120 multichannel signal analysis system con- for:
sists of the described components. These components are ❙❙ Semimobile applications
configured to ensure that the planned tasks can be per- ■■ R&S®CA120PU-S signal processing and storage unit

formed in accordance with the user's requirements. When ■■ R&S®CA120PU signal processing unit

the user has new or enhanced r­ equirements, R&S®CA120 ❙❙ Server room applications
must meet them. Applications (e.g. R&S®CA120FFP in- ■■ R&S®CA120SPU-S server room signal processing and

terception processing channels, R&S®CA120CL classi- storage unit

fiers and R&S®CA120REC recording/replay options) can ■■ R&S®CA120SPU server room signal processing unit

be retrofitted at any time thanks to the modular design of

R&S®CA120.

R&S®CA120PU R&S®CA120PU-S

Signal detector Automatic processing of Detector for frequency Recording/replay Signal pro­cessing
­detected signals agile signals channels units

R&S®CA120DSC option R&S®CA120AP option R&S®CA120ST, R&S®CA120REC option R&S®CA120PU-S,

R&S®CA120PS, R&S®CA120PU,
R&S®CA120OR R&S®CA120SPU-S,
options R&S®CA120SPU
options
R&S®CA120DSC i­s oper- R&S®CA120AP enables R&S®CA120ST allows Each R&S®CA120FFP For semimobile appli-
ated in conjunction with an R&S®CA120DSC to process de- processing of short-time ­interception ­processing cations depending on
R&S®CA120MCP and continu- tected signals fully automatical- signal scenarios. It pro- channel provides an in- the selected options as
ously delivers a list of detected ly. For fully automatic operation vides a snapshot detec- terface for recording/­ well as their numbers,
signals. Interception processing of R&S®CA120, the user must tor for short-time signals. replaying individual signals. the processor configu-
channels with classifiers can be ­specify rules for the automatic The detector results are Each R&S®CA120MCP ration of R&S®CA120
allocated to it in order to auto- workflow. A selection of rules combined, statistically provides an interface is set up using the
matically recognize the modula- (Event ▷ Action) is available ­evaluated and output. for the r­ ecording/replay R&S®CA120PU-S and
tion type and the transmission to create efficient automatic R&S®CA120PS provides of a signal scenario. To R&S®CA120PU modules
system of each signal after de- workflows. All technical param- the online separation and ­record and replay s­ ignals, to ensure the necessary
tection. The higher the number of eters obtained through detec- recognition of already R&S®CA120REC, which computing power and
classifiers that operate simulta- tion and classification (e.g. sig- known and unknown ­simultaneously process- ­recording capacity.
neously, the more efficiently the nal became active; signal was short-time signal trans- es multiple signals, is For server room
signal scenario will be intercept- classified as ­unknown; signal mitters. In addition, it ­required. The number of applications,
ed and monitored. The maximum was classified as known) can is possible to separate R&S®CA120REC ­options R&S®CA120SPU-S and
number of classifiers that a de- be used to control the decision- equal transmitters that depends on how many sig- R&S®CA120SPU are
tector can simultaneously oper- making process for the execu- send signals in parallel. nals and signal scenarios used correspondingly.
ate is determined by the number tion of actions. R&S®CA120OR allows the user wishes to record/
of available R&S®CA120FFP inter- R&S®CA120AP can perform dif- the online recombina- replay ­simultaneously.
ception processing channels. ferent actions including event tion of short-time signal
triggering, recording, demodu- scenarios. The recom-
lation or demodulation/decod- bined I/Q data stream
ing. These actions take up one can be passed on to
R&S®CA120FFP interception a R&S®CA120 FFP for
processing channel for the dura- further analysis and
tion of the action. processing.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 19

Hardware-­ Several Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receivers and
direction finders offer hardware-accelerated signal
processing functions that provide optional support
accelerated for R&S®CA120. The result is top-class signal
processing with a bandwidth of more than 20 MHz

­multichannel signal per receiver for simultaneously computing dozens of

parallel DDC channels and for detecting/analyzing

processing with
frequency agile hopper signals.

R&S®ESME/ESMD/ These capabilities are described below using the

R&S®ESME wideband monitoring receiver as an example.
The R&S®CA120 data sheet (PD 3606.9327.22) includes

DDF260/DDF255/ a list of all Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receivers and

direction finders that feature hardware-accelerated signal
processing.

DDF550/DDF5GTS The R&S®ESME wideband monitoring receiver can be

equipped with an R&S®ESME-SP signal processing board
to enable hardware-accelerated signal processing with
R&S®CA120. The board offers up to four high-performance
signal processing functions, implemented in field pro-
grammable gate array (FPGA) technology.

R&S®ESME with R&S®ESME-SP: support for hardware-accelerated signal processing with R&S®CA120

¸ESME wideband monitoring receiver ¸CA120 multichannel signal

analysis system
¸ESME-SP signal processing board

¸ESME-ST ¸CA120ST
¸ESME base functions 1 Gbit Ethernet
detection of short-time signals detection of frequency hopping signals
(up to 80 MHz bandwidth)

¸ESME-HRP ¸CA120DSC
calculation of high-resolution spectra 1 Gbit Ethernet detection, search and classification
I/Q of fixed frequency signals

control

1 Gbit Ethernet
Wideband ¸ESME-DDCE ¸CA120FFP
1 Gbit Ethernet
delay buffer DDC signal extraction fixed frequency processing
1 Gbit Ethernet
1 Gbit or 10 Gbit Ethernet

I/Q I/Q

¸GX460/¸GX465 ¸CA120REC
recording/replay
digital wideband storage device

R&S®ESME-SP signal processing board with options. The results are processed in the R&S®CA120 m
­ ultichannel signal analysis system.

20
Multichannel digital downconversion (DDC) Automatic detection of fixed frequency and burst
signal extraction from the R&S®ESME realtime signals with R&S®ESME-HRP and R&S®CA120DSC
bandwidth with R&S®ESME-DDCE and The signal detector outputs a detection result for each de-
R&S®CA120FFP tected signal that matches user-defined selection criteria
If multiple signals in the realtime bandwidth of the in the realtime bandwidth of the R&S®ESME. The auto-
R&S®ESME are active at the same time, users can extract matically computed detection threshold adapts indepen-
these signals using digital downconverters. The maxi- dently to the noise floor characteristic that varies within
mum number of DDCs computed in parallel depends on a frequency range. In scenarios where certain signals or
the set DDC bandwidth (for details, see the R&S®CA120 frequency ranges are of no interest, the detector algorithm
data sheet, PD 3606.9327.22). In a typical HF application can be parameterized with a list of frequency ranges that
scenario with an R&S®ESME realtime bandwidth of up to may be ignored. The detector will not generate messages
20 MHz and a DDC bandwidth of up to 30 kHz, well over for signals in these ranges.
100 signals can simultaneously be extracted and output.
The downconverted signals are available as digital I/Q R&S®CA120 taps the detection spectra at the LAN
streams at the LAN interface of the R&S®ESME. ­interface of the R&S®ESME and processes them.
R&S®CA120 assigns the results to signals, manages lists
R&S®CA120 further processes the extracted signals online of active and inactive signals, and uses digital downcon-
(audio demodulation, classification, demodulation/decod- verters (R&S®ESME-DDCE) to automatically process de-
ing and recording) to provide optimum support for multi- tected signals, thereby providing optimum support for sig-
channel content recovery from a signal scenario. nal search and signal monitoring.

Automatic detection of frequency hopping signals

with short-time signal detection
The R&S®ESME-ST option allows automatic detection of
frequency hopping signals within the receiver’s realtime
bandwidth. It delivers a result for each detected short-time
signal that matches user-defined selection criteria. The re-
sults are output on the 1 Gbit Ethernet interface for further
processing.

By measuring, classifying and sorting the results, the

R&S®CA120 multichannel signal analysis system with the
R&S®CA120ST and R&S®CA120PS options optimally sup-
ports the detection and monitoring of frequency hopping
signals.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 21

Integration into Integration into existing systems with different
interfaces
R&S®CA120 has interfaces for connection to a large num-

existing systems ber of state-of-the-art Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receiv-

ers and direction finders. Moreover, R&S®CA120 has an
open interface to allow integration of user-specific signal

with minimal effort processing components (receiver driver, classifier, demod-

ulator, decoder). For incorporation into the user's existing
system solutions, R&S®CA120 is equipped with a docu-
mented interface for the development of a user-specific
R&S®CA120 is available as a programmable sensor controller.
subsystem for system integrators. It is used together
Advanced integration and automation in
with other sensor components (e.g. antennas,
conjunction with R&S®RAMON
monitoring receivers and direction finders) to The R&S®RAMON system family is optimally c ­ onfigured to
support signal interception with R&S®RAMON operate the R&S®CA120 multichannel signal analysis soft-
systems. Future additions will expand performance ware in systems including antennas, monitoring receivers,
and the range of applications. direction finders, user workstations and databases, as well
as to process the collected data. For more details, see the
R&S®RAMON product brochure (PD 5214.3152.12).

R&S®RAMON graphical user interface

22
System configuration
Standard configurations
For all standard configurations, antennas and monitoring receivers for the frequency range of interest are required
to configure a complete R&S®RAMON system. If features such as reporting or map-based presentation are required,
­additional software licenses for R&S®RAMON are needed. Moreover, user workstations (computers) and other central IT
components (database, etc.) are required for user support. For more details, see the R&S®RAMON p ­ roduct brochure.

Four-channel interception Eight-channel interception and automatic monitoring

❙❙ Supports manual work (signal monitoring, analysis, ❙❙ Supports manual work (signal search, monitoring,
content recovery, recording/replay) for one to four analysis, content recovery) for one to eight simultaneous
simultaneous users users
❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 3 HU ❙❙ Automatic operation possible with all or a subset of the
eight channels
❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 3 HU

Quantity Product Function Quantity Product Function

1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis 1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis
4 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has four channels and can 8 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has eight channels and
simultaneously process up to four sig- can simultaneously process up to eight
nals (supplied by four different receiv- signals
ers and/or one receiver with integrated
DDCs 1)) 8 R&S®CA120DM All eight channels are able to process
4 R&S®CA120DM All four channels are able to process digital signals
digital signals 8 R&S®CA120CL All eight channels are able to perform
4 R&S®CA120CL All four channels are able to perform classification
classification 8 R&S®CA120DEC All eight channels are able to decode
4 R&S®CA120DEC All four channels are able to decode HF and VHF/UHF transmission systems
HF and VHF/UHF transmission systems 1 R&S®CA120MCP Multichannel processing (using DDCs)
1 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of of a maximum of eight simultaneous
R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded signals from a signal scenario
signal data; 19", 2 HU
1 R&S®CA120DSC Automatic detection and classification
1 R&S®CA120PU Signal processing unit; 19", 1 HU of signals

1 R&S®CA120REC Recording/replay option for a maximum 1 R&S®CA120AP 2) Automatic processing of detected (and
of four simultaneous signals (integrated classified) signals
into R&S®CA120PU-S)
1 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of
R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded
signal data; 19", 2 HU
1)
R&S®CA120MCP required.
1 R&S®CA120PU Signal processing unit; 19", 1 HU
1 R&S®CA120REC Recording/replay option for a wideband
signal scenario (integrated into
R&S®CA120PU-S)

2)
Additional recording device required to store results.

One R&S®CA120PU-S and one R&S®CA120PU One R&S®CA120PU-S and one R&S®CA120PU

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 23

16-channel interception and automatic monitoring 24-channel interception and automatic monitoring
including detection of short-time signals ❙❙ Supports manual work (signal search, monitoring,
❙❙ Supports manual work (signal search, monitoring, analysis, content recovery) for one to 24 simultaneous
analysis, content recovery) for one to 16 simultaneous users
users ❙❙ Automatic operation possible with all or a subset of the
❙❙ Automatic operation possible with all or a subset of the 24 channels
16 channels ❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 5 HU
❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 4 HU

Quantity Product Function Quantity Product Function

1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis 1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis
16 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has 16 channels and can 24 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has 24 channels and can si-
simultaneously process up to 16 signals multaneously process up to 24 signals

16 R&S®CA120DM All 16 channels are able to process digi- 24 R&S®CA120DM All 24 channels are able to process digi-
tal signals tal signals

16 R&S®CA120CL All 16 channels are able to perform 24 R&S®CA120CL All 24 channels are able to perform
classification classification

16 R&S®CA120DEC All 16 channels are able to decode 24 R&S®CA120DEC All 24 channels are able to decode
HF and VHF/UHF transmission systems HF and VHF/UHF transmission systems

1 R&S®CA120MCP Multichannel processing (using DDCs) 1 R&S®CA120MCP Multichannel processing (using DDCs)
of a maximum of 16 simultaneous sig- of a maximum of 24 simultaneous sig-
nals from a signal scenario nals from a signal scenario

1 R&S®CA120DSC Automatic detection and classification 1 R&S®CA120DSC Automatic detection and classification
of fixed frequency signals of fixed frequency signals

1 R&S®CA120AP 2) Automatic processing of detected (and 1 R&S®CA120AP 2) Automatic processing of detected (and
classified) signals classified) signals

1 R&S®CA120ST Detection of short-time signals 1 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of
1 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded
R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded signal data; 19", 2 HU
signal data; 19", 2 HU
2 R&S®CA120PU Signal processing unit; 19", 1 HU
2 R&S®CA120PU Signal processing unit; 19", 1 HU 1 R&S®CA120REC Recording/replay option for a wideband
1 R&S®CA120REC Recording/replay option for a wideband signal scenario (integrated into
signal scenario (integrated into R&S®CA120PU-S)
R&S®CA120PU-S)

2)
Additional recording device required to store results.
2)
Additional recording device required to store results.

One R&S®CA120PU-S and two R&S®CA120PU One R&S®CA120PU-S and two R&S®CA120PU

24
Additional configurations, including hardware-­accelerated configurations
The modular design of R&S®CA120 also allows specialized applications and mixing of different applications.

Automatic 32-channel monitoring (ITU) Automatic 32-channel monitoring of known signals

❙❙ Supports the automatic monitoring of fundamental signal ❙❙ Supports the automatic interception/monitoring of
parameters known signals (i.e. users know in advance which
❙❙ If monitoring of signal parameters such as bandwidth, transmission system is used on which frequency). In this
frequency deviation, etc. is sufficient, users do not need case, there is no need for classification capabilities since
the components for digital signal processing (classifier, the demodulator/decoder starts immediately when a
decoder, etc.) signal is active on a known frequency
❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 6 HU ❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 6 HU

Quantity Product Function Quantity Product Function

1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis 1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis
32 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has 32 channels and can si- 32 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has 32 channels and can
multaneously process up to 32 signals simultaneously process up to 32 signals

1 R&S®CA120MCP Multichannel processing (using DDCs) 32 R&S®CA120DEC All 32 channels are able to decode
of a maximum of 32 simultaneous sig- HF and VHF/UHF transmission systems
nals from a signal scenario
1 R&S®CA120MCP Multichannel processing (using DDCs)
1 R&S®CA120DSC Automatic detection of fixed frequency of a maximum of 32 simultaneous sig-
signals nals from a signal scenario

1 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of 1 R&S®CA120DSC Automatic detection of fixed frequency
R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded signals
signal data; 19", 2 HU
1 R&S®CA120AP 2)Automatic processing of detected
3 R&S®CA120PU Signal processing unit; 19", 1 HU signals
1 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of
R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded
­signal data; 19", 2 HU

3 R&S®CA120PU Signal processing unit; 19", 1 HU

2)
Additional recording device required to store results.

One R&S®CA120PU-S and three R&S®CA120PU One R&S®CA120PU-S and three R&S®CA120PU

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 25

Automatic monitoring of known networks with four 90-channel HF interception and automatic
scanning/stepping monitoring receivers monitoring
❙❙ Supports the a ­ utomatic monitoring of known signals ❙❙ Supports manual work (signal search, monitoring,
(i.e. users know in advance which transmission system analysis, content recovery, recording/replay) for one to
is used on which frequency). Known frequencies are 90 simultaneous users
monitored by four separate receivers using a frequency ❙❙ Automatic operation possible with all or a subset of the
or memory scan (e.g. each receiver can monitor the 90 channels
frequencies of one network). If a signal is active, the ❙❙ Maximum bandwidth per channel: 30 kHz
receiver stops on the frequency and the R&S®CA120 ❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 8 HU
interception processing channel processes the signal
❙❙ Space required in a 19" rack: 3 HU

Quantity Product Function Quantity Product Function

1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis 1 R&S®CA120 Multichannel signal analysis
4 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has four channels and 90 R&S®CA120FFP R&S®CA120 has 90 channels and
can simultaneously process up to four can simultaneously process up to 90
signals signals
4 R&S®CA120DEC All four channels are able to decode 90 R&S®CA120DM All 90 channels are able to process
HF and VHF/UHF transmission systems ­digital signals

1 R&S®CA120DSC Automatic detection of fixed frequency 90 R&S®CA120CL All 90 channels are able to perform
signals classification

1 R&S®CA120AP 2)Automatic processing of detected 90 R&S®CA120DEC All 90 channels are able to decode
signals HF and VHF/UHF transmission
1 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of systems
R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded 1 R&S®CA120MCP Multichannel processing (using DDCs)
­signal data; 19", 2 HU of a maximum of 90 simultaneous sig-
nals from a signal scenario
1 R&S®CA120PU Signal processing unit; 19", 1 HU
1 R&S®CA120REC Recording/replay option for a maximum 1 R&S®CA120DSC Automatic detection and classification
of four simultaneous signals (integrated of fixed frequency signals
into R&S®CA120PU-S) 1 R&S®CA120AP Automatic processing of detected (and
classified) signals

4 R&S®CA120PU-S Signal processing unit for control of

2)
Additional recording device required to store results.
R&S®CA120 and storage of recorded
­signal data; 19", 2 HU

4 R&S®CA120REC Recording/replay option for a maxi-

mum of 90 simultaneous signals (inte-
grated into R&S®CA120PU-S)

One R&S®CA120PU-S and one R&S®CA120PU Four R&S®CA120PU-S

26
Hardware-accelerated signal processing in the R&S®ESME
wideband monitoring receiver supports the R&S®CA120
multichannel signal analysis system. For this purpose, an
R&S®ESME with the following options is required:

Quantity Product Function

1 R&S®ESME Wideband monitoring receiver
1 R&S®ESME-HF HF module, 9 kHz to 32 MHz
1 R&S®ESME-ADC2 ADC2 board
1 R&S®ESME-WB Wideband 80 MHz (20 MHz in HF)
1 R&S®ESME-SP Signal processing board
1 R&S®ESME-DDCE Digital downconversion signal
extraction

1 R&S®ESME-HRP High-resolution panorama spectrum

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 27

Training courses The R&S®CA120 training courses offer a combination of
classroom based theory lessons and practical exercises.
Covering the most important topics, they help operators
effectively use R&S®CA120 for signal analysis.

The courses provide participants with the necessary

knowledge to understand the workflow concept of
R&S®CA120 for analyzing live and recorded signal scenar-
ios. All courses are instructor-led with an interactive ap-
proach. The instructor uses a mixture of question and an-
swer sessions, continuous assessment and a final exam to
ensure effective knowledge transfer.

Course overview
Course title Target audience Aim Duration
R&S®CA120-TI, Decision-makers for signal analysis Attain basic product familiarity 1 day
R&S®CA120 introduction products (5 hours)
R&S®CA120-TO, COMINT users, operators, supervisors, Attain operational familiarity with R&S®CA120 5 days
R&S®CA120 operator training technical analysts
R&S®CA120-TA, COMINT system developers and Attain confidence in handling the R&S®CA120 API (C++ 5 days
R&S®CA120 operator t­ raining integrators library and XML) to be able to develop third-party client
­application programming applications
interface
R&S®CA1X0-TTU, COMINT signal analysis module develop- Be able to integrate third-party tuners with 5 days
R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120 ers and integrators R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120
­developer training for integrating
third-party tuners
R&S®CA1X0-TDM, COMINT signal analysis module develop- Be able to integrate third-party demodulators with 4 days
R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120 ers and integrators R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120
­developer training for integrating
third-party demodulators
R&S®CA1X0-TDC, COMINT signal analysis module develop- Be able to integrate third-party decoder with 5 days
R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120 ers and integrators R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120
­developer training for integrating
third-party decoders
R&S®CA1X0-SAF, Decision-makers for COMINT solutions, Attain basic knowledge about COMINT signal waveforms, 5 days
signal analysis fundamentals COMINT operators and COMINT techni- signal processing devices (antennas, receivers, direction
training cal analysts finders) and signal analysis concepts. Acquire pre-know­
ledge for signal analysis product operational trainings

28
Related solutions Comparison of R&S®CA100 and R&S®CA120
The R&S®CA120 multichannel signal analysis solution and
R&S®CA100 have similar features, but are designed for dif-
ferent applications.

R&S®CA100 is a standalone software solution for analyz-

ing, classifying, demodulating and decoding analog and
digital signals. The software provides powerful signal anal-
ysis and signal processing functions and runs on a stan-
dard Windows PC. This PC can be connected to many
Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receivers or direction finders
via Ethernet LAN or to any other receiver via the sound
card audio input. The R&S®CA100 PC software is a single-
receiver solution for radiomonitoring that is quick to set up
and easy to operate.

R&S®CA100 screenshot

Comparison of R&S®CA100 and R&S®CA120

Criteria R&S®CA120 R&S®CA100
Detection mode in FFM and receiver scan only in receiver scan

if the receiver is set to a fixed frequency range, detection and processing of signals is always
­detection and processing of signals is simultaneous sequential
Max. number of monitoring receivers multiple 1
supported in parallel
Max. number of channels processed per 128 4
monitoring receiver or DDF
Max. number of channels processed 32 1
while replaying a recorded signal scenario
Max. bandwidth for signal processing 10 MHz, 4 × 1 MHz (with R&S®ESME)
80 MHz (with R&S®ESME-SP)
Remote control via LAN or WAN yes (with R&S®RAMON) no
Integrated in typical R&S®RAMON yes, full integration limited integration with interfaces to R&S®RAMON
workflows system software
Installed on R&S®CA120PU-S, R&S®CA120PU user PC, see R&S®CA100 data sheet
(PD 3606.9340.22) for minimum required hardware
configuration

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 29

Ordering information
Designation Type Order No.
Base unit
Multichannel signal analysis software R&S®CA120 4102.1000.xx 1)
basic component including system services (hardware is optional)
Licensing options
Licensing of R&S®CA120 with USB dongle R&S®CA120-U 4102.1846.02
Licensing of R&S®CA120 with mini USB dongle R&S®CA120-M 4102.1852.02
Options for single-channel processing
Fixed frequency processing R&S®CA120FFP 4102.1069.02
interception processing channel; I/Q data input from a receiver or a DDC and processing of a signal
with high-resolution spectrum/waterfall, audio demodulation and manual time domain analysis
Processing of digital signals R&S®CA120DM 4102.1075.02
processing of digital signals for an R&S®CA120FFP interception processing channel; contains a library
with universal demodulators
Classification R&S®CA120CL 4102.1081.02
automatic classification of modulation type and transmission system for an R&S®CA120FFP
­interception processing channel; R&S®CA120DM required
Decoder package professional R&S®CA120DEC 4102.1098.02
decoding of HF and VHF/UHF transmission systems for an R&S®CA120FFP interception processing
channel; R&S®CA120DM required
Decoding of PACTOR II and ­PACTOR III R&S®CA120PIII 4102.1117.02
decoding of PACTOR II and PACTOR III signals for an R&S®CA120FFP interception processing channel;
R&S®CA120DM required
Decoding of CLOVER R&S®CA120CV 4102.1123.02
decoding of CLOVER 2 and CLOVER 2000 signals for an R&S®CA120FFP interception processing
­channel; R&S®CA120DM required
Decoding of CODAN 3012 R&S®CA120CO 4102.1130.02
decoding of CODAN 3012 signals for an R&S®CA120FFP interception processing channel;
R&S®CA120DM required
Correlative detector R&S®CA120CDT 4102.1223.02
high-performance detection of FSK2 signals; R&S®CA120DM required
Wideband snapshot access R&S®CA120WSN 4102.1217.02
provides access to the wideband snapshot buffer of the R&S®ESME/ESMD/DDF260/DDF255 for online
wideband classification; R&S®CA120CL required; R&S®ESME-RR/ESMD-RR/DDF260-RR/DDF255-RR
required
Options for multichannel processing
Multichannel processing R&S®CA120MCP 4102.1152.02
I/Q data input from a receiver; computation of data for spectrum/waterfall display and extraction of a
maximum of 32 signals with DDCs; processing of extracted signals with R&S®CA120FFP interception
processing channels
Detection, search and classification of fixed frequency signals R&S®CA120DSC 4102.1169.02
automatic detection of fixed frequency signals; required for automatic classification using
R&S®CA120CL
Spectral shape detector R&S®CA120SDT 4102.1181.02
high-speed spectral shape search; R&S®CA120DSC required
Automatic processing of detected signals R&S®CA120AP 4102.1175.02
option for R&S®CA120DSC; automatic processing (demodulation, decoding, recording) of detected
signals
Detection of short-time signals R&S®CA120ST 4102.1198.02
detection of frequency agile short-time signals; R&S®CA120MCP required
Profile separation R&S®CA120PS 4098.5224.02
separation of multiple short-time emitters and matching to predefined profiles of frequency agile short-
time transmission systems; R&S®CA120ST required
Online recombination R&S®CA120OR 4098.5218.02
online recombination of frequency agile short-time signals for further processing
(for example I/Q recording or demodulation); R&S®CA120PS required
Recording and replay R&S®CA120REC 4102.1200.02
recording and replay of a frequency range with a max. bandwidth of 10 MHz
Hardware-accelerated signal processing with the R&S®ESME
DDC signal extraction 2) R&S®ESME-DDCE 4113.2103.02
High-resolution panorama spectrum 2, supports detection of fixed frequency signals R&S®ESME-HRP 4113.2126.02
Detection of short-time signals 3), supports detection of frequency agile hopper signals R&S®ESME-ST 4113.2110.02

30
 Designation Type Order No.
Hardware-accelerated signal processing with the R&S®ESMD
DDC signal extraction 2) R&S®ESMD-DDCE 4079.7760.02
High-resolution panorama spectrum , supports detection of fixed frequency signals
2)
R&S®ESMD-HRP 4079.7902.02
Detection of short-time signals 3), supports detection of frequency agile hopper signals R&S®ESMD-ST 4079.7883.02
Hardware-accelerated signal processing with the R&S®DDF260
DDC signal extraction 2) R&S®DDF260DDCE 4114.0804.02
High-resolution panorama spectrum 2), supports detection of fixed frequency signals R&S®DDF260-HRP 4114.0827.02
Detection of short-time signals , supports detection of frequency agile hopper signals
2), 3)
R&S®DDF260-ST 4114.0810.02
Hardware-accelerated signal processing with the R&S®DDF255
DDC signal extraction 2) R&S®DDF255DDCE 4079.7760.03
High-resolution panorama spectrum 2), supports detection of fixed frequency signals R&S®DDF255-HRP 4079.7902.03
Detection of short-time signals 2), 3), supports detection of frequency agile hopper signals R&S®DDF255-ST 4079.7883.03
Hardware-accelerated signal processing with the R&S®DDF550
DDC signal extraction 4) R&S®DDF550DDCE 4074.0700.02
High-resolution panorama spectrum 4), supports detection of fixed frequency signals R&S®DDF550-HRP 4074.0745.02
Detection of short-time signals 4), 5), supports detection of frequency agile hopper signals R&S®DDF550-ST 4074.0722.02
Hardware-accelerated signal processing with the R&S®DDF5GTS
DDC signal extraction 6) R&S®DDFGTSDDCE 4074.0716.02
High-resolution panorama spectrum , supports detection of fixed frequency signals
6)
R&S®DDFGTS-HRP 4074.0751.02
Detection of short-time signals 6), 7), supports detection of frequency agile hopper signals R&S®DDFGTS-ST 4074.0739.02
Hardware options
Signal processing and storage unit R&S®CA120PU-S 4102.1317.04
Signal processing unit R&S®CA120PU 4102.1298.04
Server room signal processing and storage unit R&S®CA120SPU-S 4102.1652.02
Server room signal processing unit R&S®CA120SPU 4102.1646.02

1)
Model .02 for delivery without hardware options; model .03 for delivery with hardware options.
2)
Corresponding R&S®xx-ADC2 and R&S®xx-SP options required.
3)
Corresponding R&S®xx-DDCE required.
4)
One R&S®DDF550-SP required.
5)
R&S®DDF550DDCE required.
6)
One R&S®DDFGTS-SP required.
7)
R&S®DDFGTSDDCE required.

In addition to the R&S®CA120 multichannel signal analysis software, a complete R&S®RAMON system configuration requires additional components
such as ­antennas, monitoring receivers, interception workstation computers, R&S®RAMON software licenses and central R&S®RAMON IT components.
For more details, see the R&S®RAMON product brochure (PD 5214.3152.12).

Note:
Rohde & Schwarz licenses for R&S®CA120 are stored on a USB dongle. In the event of a dongle being lost, stolen or misplaced, Rohde & Schwarz will not
provide a replacement. All licenses stored on the missing device will have to be purchased again at full price. In the unlikely event that a USB dongle is
corrupt or broken, it will be replaced by Rohde & Schwarz only if the defective device is returned to Rohde & Schwarz. A moderate fee will be charged for
producing and sending the replacement.

Operator training courses

Designation Type Order No.
R&S®CA120 introduction R&S®CA120-TI 3637.2524.02
R&S®CA120 operator training R&S®CA120-TO 3637.3914.02
R&S®CA120 operator t­ raining ­application programming interface R&S®CA120-TA 3637.4604.02
R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120 ­developer training for integrating third-party tuners R&S®CA1X0-TTU 3637.2482.02
R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120 ­developer training for integrating third-party demodulators R&S®CA1X0-TDM 3637.2499.02
R&S®CA100/R&S®CA120 ­developer training for integrating third-party decoders R&S®CA1X0-TDC 3637.2501.02
Signal analysis fundamentals training R&S®CA1X0-SAF 3637.4685.02

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software 31

 Rohde & Schwarz
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❙❙ Europe, Africa, Middle East | +49 89 4129 12345
[email protected]
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[email protected]

R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG

3606.9327.12 11.00 PDP 1 en

Trade names are trademarks of the owners

PD 3606.9327.12 | Version 11.00 | September 2019 (jr)
R&S®CA120 Multichannel Signal Analysis Software
Data without tolerance limits is not binding | Subject to change
© 2013 - 2019 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG | 81671 Munich, Germany

3606932712