IQ Data Analysis

The recording and analysis of IQ data has become a critical aspect of modern TSCM, COMINT and SIGINT requirements. Sophisticated digital technology requires advanced, professional level analysis that provides actionable intelligence not only during live monitoring, but during post analysis of recorded data. This becomes even more important during remote 24 X 7 monitoring applications where data is recorded and stored over periods of time.

RadioInspector provides unmatched, advanced multi layered IQ data analysis, recording and post processing capability. IQ data can be analyzed during live spectrum scanning and data collection utilizing the digital testing (DTest) and Signal Classification Analysis Recognition (SCARS) programs as well as with the Signal Analysis and Performance Measurement sub-system. IQ data can also be recorded and stored manually or automatically as required by the operator for post processing and analysis. IQ data is saved in a wav file format and there is no limit to the number of files that can be stored.

DTest and SCARS:  Using the stream of IQ data from the receiver, RadioInspector’s DTest and SCARS programs provide advanced, deep analysis of supported digital communication standards including GSM, LTE, UMTS 3G, DECT, Bluetooth, Tetra, Apco25, DRM, DPMR, NXDN, IEEE 802.15.4 (ZigBee, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi), Digital Video Broadcasting DVB-T and DVB-T2.

RF Analysis and Performance Measurement Sub-System: The RF Analysis and Performance Measurement Sub-System provides live IQ digital processing with phase and amplitude analysis, filtering and decimation, 3 types of constellation diagrams and advanced parameter measurements including field strength, out-of-band radiators, occupied frequency bandwidth, and full parameter estimation.

IQ data can be recorded and stored manually during the live collection process using an embedded utility in the upper GUI analysis tool bar, or from the scan parameters settings in the Signal Analysis and Performance Measurement sub-system GUI. Settings include IQ sample rate, bandwidth and recording time, which are pre-configured to optimize receiver performance specifications and efficiency. When a wide bandwidth is recorded, individual signals or any portion of the recorded IQ data can be isolated and saved as a new file.

RadioInspector provides the ability to automatically record and store IQ data for signals that break one of the adaptive, operator determined thresholds including amplitude, power over threshold, thresholds based upon a set number of dB above ‘normal’ detected signal levels, use of minimum, current or average traces values, threshold tables with multiple sub-ranges and amplitude levels set across the spectrum or selected frequency ranges, or RadioInspector’s unique, first of its kind dynamic threshold. Operators can enter a sampling rate (kHz) and recording length for each detected signal. Stored IQ data files can then be loaded at any time for post processing and analysis or export as required. IQ data can be automatically saved during normal scanning from the main scanning GUI or when performing Fixed Frequency Inspections.

The stand alone IQ Process Pro software application performs in-depth post processing and analysis of recorded IQ data. Individual signals can be isolated and separated from a wide recorded bandwidth for processing and analysis. Options include RadioInspector’s digital signal testing (DTest) for supported communication standards, and audio / video demodulation.