Though these two instruments may appear similar in their functionality, there are actually subtle differences between them in terms of their functions and operations. The distortion meter is used to measure the total harmonic distortion content in an input waveform whereas the wave analyzer is used to measure relative amplitude of single frequency components in a complex waveform.
From operational perspective, the distortion meter employs a tunable notch filter to eliminate a particular frequency and then measures the combined level of the remaining component waves. On the other hand, the wave analyzer also referred to as selective level meter (SLM) or frequency-selective voltmeter, uses a tunable narrow bandpass filter to select a particular frequency component for measurement.
Related articles:
- Radio Frequency Spectrum Analyser
- RF Scalar and Vector Network Analyzers
- Oscilloscopes: Function, Features, Applications & Selection Guide
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