CTS 381: Deep Dive: Using Spectrum Analysis Tools

CTS 381: Deep Dive: Using Spectrum Analysis Tools

From Clear To Send: Wireless Network Engineering by Rowell Dionicio and François Vergès

January 5, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

The episode discusses spectrum analysis tools and their importance in Wi-Fi engineering.

Thank you to our sponsor: Meter: Visit  meter.com/cleartosend  to book a demo! The video is an episode of the Clear To Send podcast, hosted by Rowell Dionicio and Francois, where they discuss spectrum analysis tools. Summary of Spectrum Analysis Discussion: * What is Spectrum Analysis? A spectrum analyzer measures activities on the RF layer (Layer 1), specifically for the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz frequencies that Wi-Fi uses. It measures the signals and their amplitude, showing which frequencies or channels are busy and how often they are used (duty cycle or channel utilization). * Purpose: Spectrum analysis is used by Wi-Fi engineers for tasks like Wi-Fi validation surveys and troubleshooting. The goal is to see if everything is taking place normally, understand what Wi-Fi traffic looks like, and spot non-Wi-Fi traffic (interference) that could be impacting Wi-Fi. * On-Site Requirement: Spectrum analysis usually requires being on-site to find the source of interference in the real world. * Tools: For accurate analysis, a dedicated spectrum chipset is needed, as general Wi-Fi network interface cards (NICs) often only estimate channel utilization rather than provide an…

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Hosts: Rowell Dionicio, Francois Vergès

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