Measuring RF Frequency in Hertz for Science Projects

[fsx]

Hi, i have been doing a science project about radiation of smartphone functions. I have tried to use a EM wave receiver to measure the frequency of RF but it didn't work.How can i measure it (in hertz)?

 

[Mordred]

The needed equipment is a radio spectrum analyzer. Cell phones use frequencies of 900 mhz to 1.5 ghz. Due to that the equipment to measure in hertz is not cheap.

The other problem is cellphones have low radiated power of less than 1 watt. Even RF spectrum analyzers have diffiulty measuring cell phone radiation.

 

[fsx]

can i measure the wavelength at first and then calculate the frequency?

 

[Mordred]

The frequency changes depending on availability. Your best bet is try www.radiogeeks.com its a radio forum but they also deal with cell phones.

You might be able to use a sensitive oscilloscope with the probes coming off the internal antenna but I can't quarantee that. The radiogeeks forum may have affordable solutions

 

[Mordred]

Here is the link to the Forum

http://radiogeeks.us/index.php?forums/general-discussion-forum.109/

 

[fsx]

Thanks

 

[sophiecentaur]

can i measure the wavelength at first and then calculate the frequency?

That would be just as much of a problem. You will need some sort of receiver because you are unlikely to get enough power to operate a wavemeter (which really needs a source of CW to work and cell phone signals are not like that).
Cheaper than a severalGHz oscilloscope or spectrum analyser, a 'scanner' can be bought for around £100 and that can be used to find and detect all sorts of signals. It can be used over the whole of the radio spectrum for general interest - Air Band, Marine Band, Broadcasts etc..

 

[davenn]

A decent frequency counter that goes up to 2.7GHz is also available for under US$250. Readily available on eBay. Etc

 

[sophiecentaur]

Problem with a frequency counter is that it is not frequency 'selective' (no filter) and it needs a hefty signal to make it work.