VMA Simple Spectrum Analyser for Siglent SSA3021X - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2017, 02:30:35 pm
content: Hi,I am starting a whole new thread to not clutter the existing SSA3021X thread, which discusses the device itself.In this thread I want to show and discuss a new version of my "VMA Simple Spectrum Analyser" software, which I developed for the ADF4350, ADF4351 and MAX2870 (possibly other synthesizers, too). This software is discussed in this forum here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/presenting-my-new-software-for-the-sma-spectrum-analyzer-138mhz-4-4ghz/My goal is to create a similar version of this software, based on the Siglent SSA3000X series. This has been made possible with the latest P08.02 firmware, which allows SCPI commands over a simple telnet connection.The software will be closed source and will require an activation license. I will follow the same procedure as with the existing software: activation keys are free, but time limited. A small donation fee will give access to a premanent activation code. I don't want to make any profit out of this, but it does help paying for the hardware. Also, it is very rewarding when people do a small donation as a recognition for the work done. I hope you guy's understand this and if not: hey, Siglent provides a great SCPI user manual - please program a software yourself!Having said this, I uploaded a first test/demo release. It has bugs, TCP communication is not as I want it and it offers little to no functionality. But it is a nice demo of what can be expected.I don't intent to do a remote control software! All I want to receive from the SSA3000X is the sweep data and to be able to set parameters like start/stop frequency, attenuation and RBW/VBW. My software will then handle all the data processing according to my ideas.The feature list to be expected, for those who are not familiar with the existing software:- Free selectable span range- Two markers- 8 user defined predefined spectrum settings- Automatic amplitude adjustment- Min/Max/Avg live spectrum traces- Line/Shaded spectrum rendering- Waterfall display- Save/Load spectrum mask- Record/Play spectrum- GPS and time stamp for on the road measurements- Frequency logger from live or recorded spectrum at desired freqeuncy- Trigger function with user defined mask and automatic alarm e-mail message- Google Maps rendering of logger files- Signal source- Sweep generator- Power meter- Special measurements- Marker 1&2 bandwidth- Marker 1&2 power difference- Bandwidth Measurement- Channel Power Measurement- Transponder Frequency Measurement- Math functions applied on traces- SWR Measurement- Satellite Identification through transponder pattern recognitionI am not sure if GPS is a reasonable function to add, though, as you need 220V do power the SSA3000X.Attached is a new version, which perhaps fixes a problem some might experience with the version I uploaded yesterday.More information can be obtained at my blog:http://vma-satellite.blogspot.pt/There is also the user guide for the software, which might explain some of the functionality. Above all, my interest is to have a platform, where I can develop and try new kinds of measurements.Regards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2017, 02:33:23 pm
content: QuotePlease try this new version.Also, please apologize, but the software is really beta and I am still trying out how to best remote control the SSA3000X. This needs to be handled completely different than for the ADF&MAX devices.Regards,Vitor

author: bozidarms
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2017, 05:13:13 pm
content: Hi Vitor,have you think about harmonic distortion measurement -that will be nice to have functionRegards,Bozidar

author: rf-loop
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2017, 05:20:14 pm
content: Quote from: Bicurico on February 26, 2017, 02:33:23 pmYes, I understand well that this is just starting pre beta.This new version stop with ERR msg but if still continue, now example attenuator setting works much better but no trace and RBW and frequencies show some strange values.Example start and stop freq 0 but then RBW is same as my settings in SA for stop freq 900MHz but then VBW show right value.But, setting attenuator level looks like working better and when I quit this software it do not anymore freeze SSA.Do not hurru and take stress. Quality is more important than speed.It is nice to see here is this kind of project now possible after FW 1.2.8.2-------------------------------- Err msgSee the end of this message for details on invokingjust-in-time (JIT) debugging instead of this dialog box.************** Exception Text **************System.IndexOutOfRangeException: Index was outside the bounds of the array.at VMA_Spectrum_Analyser_for_SSA3021X.Form1.spectrum()at VMA_Spectrum_Analyser_for_SSA3021X.Form1.Timer1_Tick(Object sender, EventArgs e)at System.Windows.Forms.Timer.OnTick(EventArgs e)at System.Windows.Forms.Timer.TimerNativeWindow.WndProc(Message& m)at System.Windows.Forms.NativeWindow.Callback(IntPtr hWnd, Int32 msg, IntPtr wparam, IntPtr lparam)************** Loaded Assemblies **************mscorlibAssembly Version: 4.0.0.0Win32 Version: 4.6.1087.0 built by: NETFXREL4STAGECodeBase: file:///C:/Windows/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v4.0.30319/mscorlib.dll----------------------------------------VMA Spectrum Analyser for SSA3021XAssembly Version: 1.0.0.0Win32 Version: 1.0.0.0.........etc...I will PM you some extra detail (not public info)

author: Chig
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2017, 01:26:56 pm
content: Quote from: Bicurico on February 26, 2017, 02:30:35 pmI haven't got a SSA3000 yet, but waiting for them to come in stock... however the GPS/location based information would be very useful for me on the road. I often run from a portable power source in very remote locations (thousands of kilometres from the nearest city), so that sort of info is always useful.

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2017, 10:36:26 am
content: http://vma-satellite.blogspot.pt/2017/03/siglent-ssa3021x-vma-simple-spectrum.html

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:41:02 pm
content: Hi,Here is an update:http://vma-satellite.blogspot.pt/2017/03/siglent-ssa3021x-vma-simple-spectrum_9.htmlRegards,VitorPS: I wonder if/how it is possible to insert a Youtube video?

author: technogeeky
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:50:13 pm
content: Quote from: Bicurico on March 09, 2017, 09:41:02 pmVitor:Simply insert the link as a URL, andiffit's a link to a Youtube video, it will show up. It's a hidden feature.

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:51:26 pm
content: Testing:Cool! It works... The preview didn't show it, which is why I thought this couldn't be that simple.Thanks technogeeky!Cheers,Vitor

author: bozidarms
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2017, 07:58:49 am
content: Hi Vitor,really cool stuff - it gets better and betterRegards,Bozidar

author: Dubbie
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 10, 2017, 08:10:19 am
content: This is cool! I think I need to get a copy and have a play.

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2017, 03:26:56 pm
content: Hi,I just uploaded a first release onto my blog:http://vma-satellite.blogspot.pt/2017/03/vma-simple-spectrum-analyser-for.htmlThis version requires a (free) activation code and features:- different visualization modes (LIVE, MIN, MAX, AVG traces; "Fade" mode, 3D spectogram)- transponder recognition- satellite recognition by transponder pattern matching- record & playback of spectrum- bandwidth measurement (-3dB, -6dB and -60db)- MIN, MAX, AVG db values- two marker with indication of delta frequency and delta db- 9 configurable frequency presetsSome functions already have buttons, but are not implemented, yet.TODO:- Trigger function- MATH trace- SWR measurement- Overlay trace- GPS functionality- export trace to CSV- print screen- save screen to BMP, JPG, PNG- ...The software *should* work fine without any installation: just unpack and start executable. You need to enter the IP of your Siglent SSA3000X.The SSA3000X needs to be running on the latest FW 8.2. Older FW releases do not support SCPI over Telnet.I am not sure if the software runs on hacked devices without serial number (please test).Regards,Vitor

author: Pinkus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2017, 05:37:11 pm
content: Caution: just tried to download and my Kaspersky virus program jumped in "The object is infected by HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Generic"

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2017, 05:45:05 pm
content: That must be a false alarm. Naturally my program uses TCP/IP to communicate with the SSA3021X. I am not at home right now, but when I am back I will submit the file for online scanning.This sucks...Regards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2017, 06:19:41 pm
content: Hello again.I am back home and naturally upset about this.The executable has this CRC: DCA3F6B3I submitted the file tohttps://www.virustotal.comand received the following result:7 hits claiming a malicous content, 52 engines saying the file is clean.Interestingly, the file was complied by myself TODAY - 2017-03-12, but 3 warnings are from a date PRIOR to this.Here is the complete result:Antivirus Result UpdatedInvincea trojan.win32.dacic.a!rfn 20170203AegisLab Troj.ATRAPS.Gen.lN3i 20170312CrowdStrike Falcon (ML) malicious_confidence_79% (W) 20170130Endgame malicious (moderate confidence) 20170222Kaspersky HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Generic 20170312ZoneAlarm by Check Point HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Generic 20170312Qihoo-360 HEUR/QVM03.0.0000.Malware.Gen 20170312ALYac 20170311AVG 20170312AVware 20170312Ad-Aware 20170312AhnLab-V3 20170312Alibaba 20170228Antiy-AVL 20170312Arcabit 20170312Avast 20170312Avira (no cloud) 20170312Baidu 20170311BitDefender 20170312Bkav 20170311CAT-QuickHeal 20170311CMC 20170312ClamAV 20170312Comodo 20170312Cyren 20170312DrWeb 20170312ESET-NOD32 20170312Emsisoft 20170312F-Prot 20170312F-Secure 20170312Fortinet 20170311GData 20170312Ikarus 20170312Jiangmin 20170312K7AntiVirus 20170312K7GW 20170311Kingsoft 20170312Malwarebytes 20170312McAfee 20170312McAfee-GW-Edition 20170312eScan 20170312Microsoft 20170312NANO-Antivirus 20170312Palo Alto Networks (Known Signatures) 20170312Panda 20170312Rising 20170312SUPERAntiSpyware 20170312Sophos 20170312Symantec 20170311Tencent 20170312TheHacker 20170311TrendMicro 20170312Trustlook 20170312VBA32 20170310VIPRE 20170312ViRobot 20170312Webroot 20170312WhiteArmor 20170303Yandex 20170311Zillya 20170310Zoner 20170312nProtect 20170312The problem is that this "anti-virus" tools work with signatures - and if you are unlucky to get the same signature as some malicious code, you get the false warnings.Another issue is of course the fact that my software uses TCP/IP to communicate over the network with the Siglent SSA3000X. Some antivirus engines consider *any* network activity suspicious...Also, I notified Kaspersky for the false scan result and received their confirmation e-mail:QuoteAs soon as I get their result, I will post it here.Please be aware that I am constantly working on this project and producing new executables, which will have a different CRC and signature: exect some antivirus engines to stop complaining, while others will start complaining.At the end of the day: the risk is yours.Regards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2017, 06:35:35 pm
content: I got so pissed at this, I compiled a new executable with the only difference being I added one line in the Change Log: "2017-03-12: Added this line to check Kaspersky false detection".Guess what, Kaspersky now says the file is clean.Attached is the picture showing Kaspersky's result and the new executable I submitted (now with CRC32 F96E33FC).So much about false positives.Regards,Vitor

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2017, 06:53:55 pm
content: Real world SHA1 hash collisions here. not uncommon in antivirus systems, kind of like using a rear view mirror to drive, and hoping you see the curve before you drive of the road and off a cliff.

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2017, 09:38:33 pm
content: Hi,Got the reply from Kaspersky:QuoteAt least they are quick.Regards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2017, 11:08:25 am
content: New version online -http://vma-satellite.blogspot.pt/2017/03/vma-simple-spectrum-analyser-for.htmlChangelog:2017-03-13: Added trigger mask and e-mail notification2017-03-12: Added this line to check Kaspersky false detection2017-03-11: First releaseRegards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2017, 03:28:05 pm
content: Hi,Here is an update on my software:Today I finished implementation of the MATH trace function. This allows doing math operation on LIVE, MIN, MAX, AVG or MEM traces: +, -, *, /, add/subtract a static dB value or do SWR measurement.What is the MEM trace? This allows to store any of the LIVE, MIN, MAX, AVG or MATH traces into a "MEM trace" - it will be rendered a static trace and can be used for the MATH operations.The first attached picture shows the MEM trace in orange, which captured the signal from the tracking generator (can be turned ON/OFF).The green LIVE trace is practically invisible as it matches the MEM trace and the gray MATH trace shows MEM - LIVE. This results in a pretty flat trace at 0dBm.The second attached picture shows the signal with DUT (in this case an LTE filter). The gray MATH trace, which shows MEM - LIVE, allows direct read out of the attenuation of the DUT over the whole selected frequency range. I can see for instance, that the insertion loss of the LTE filter is -4dB and at aprox. 800MHz onwards, the filter will attenuate -35dB.All this can of course be recorded for documentation or later playback. The EXPORT button will (once I do the respective code) allow for CSV export. This can be used to further manipulate the trace on Excel.As mentioned, I implemented the SWR measurement, too. It is implemented as a MATH function. I will not post any picture, as I have still to get an SWR bridge... So I cannot show anything meaningful right now.The new version will be available for download during this weekend.Again: you can request free activation codes. They will simply be time limited, that's all. If they expire, just request a new one.TODO:- GPS functionality (including draw frequency log on Google Maps)- Overlay Trace- Print screen- Save & Export to CSV of any traceRegards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2017, 11:26:54 pm
content: Hi,I just uploaded the latest release to my blog.I am happy to announce that all functionality of the original "VMA Simple Spectrum Analyser" (for ADF4350, ADF4351 and MAX2780 devices) has been implemented in this version for the Siglent SSA3000X.This version is much better of course, thanks to the high resolution and fast sweep speed, as well as, due to me having programmed everything from scratch, avoiding some code design mistakes I did on the original software.Also, I would like to point out that you can now carry out measurments on the road with GPS position being stored with the recorded spectrum. This allows to render individual frequency logs on Google Maps.What's left to do is some finishing and bug fixing.I certainly enjoy using the Siglent SSA3000X through my software, as the GUI is much more responsive and easier to use. Example: you see a signal which you want to zoom into. Easy! Just click left and right of it, setting marker 1 and 2 and then click on Zoom to Marker. If you are using a tablet PC, you can use your fingers to do that.Regards,VitorRegards,Vitor

author: Chig
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2017, 01:32:54 am
content: Fantastic work, i can't wait to use it - my scope should arrive within the next week, and this software will certainly help me with both my hobbies and work (mostly the GPS stuff for work).

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2017, 12:15:04 pm
content: Hello,I just uploaded a new version to my blog (http://vma-satellite.blogspot.pt/).Code:Change Log:2017-03-26: Implemented improved 3D rendering with line/shade modesBug fix - corrected decimal symbol dependency2017-03-19: Implemented GPS functionalityImplemented PRINT FORM, SAVE PICTURE and OVERLAYSeveral bug fixes, including spectrum recording and playback2017-03-18: Implemented MEM and MATH trace, including SWR measurement2017-03-13: Added trigger mask and e-mail notification2017-03-12: Added this line to check Kaspersky false detection2017-03-11: First releaseThis blog entry shows a few visualization modes, which might interest you:http://vma-satellite.blogspot.pt/2017/03/vma-simple-spectrum-analyser-for_26.htmlRegards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2017, 06:50:01 pm
content: Hello,Since yesterday I suddenly received an increased amount of activation code requests for this software, which is great.However, I would like to ask the following:1) There is a bug I am aware of, but which I did not have time to fix, yet. When you generate the system code, it will automatically be put into the clipboard. Just do CTRL-V on the e-mail to me. Do NOT copy the system code that is shown in my software, as the displayed system code is wrong and differs from the one put into the clipboard. I will fix that as soon as possible.2) My software seems to only work with Windows 10. Why? I am not even sure, but right now all my PC's are running Windows 10, so it is hard for me to test why it doesn't work in previous Windows versions. Windows 8 was not tested, but Windows XP and Windows 7 will not work. The software will start, but give a slow response on commands and the graphics area will remain black. Upon termination of the software, the SSA will freeze/hang and needs to be rebooted. With Windows 10 it works fine and doesn't hang the SSA.3) Activation codes are free, but expire after max. 3 months. New codes can be requested.4) Please send requests to my e-mail. My e-mail is left on purpose on the manual of the SMA version of my software. I wanted to force people to read the manual first. The same goes for how to get a permanent activation code. You will see the instructions only after requesting a temporary activation code. This is to make sure you test the software before even considering a donation. My e-mail is vma at norcam dot pt.5) Right now I am in a busy period, so I won't have much time to fix the known bugs, especially the one for the system code. I will do it when possible.Cheers,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2017, 01:02:23 pm
content: Update:It seems my software DOES work with Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1!BUT: you need to install Microsoft .NET 4.5 Framework. Without it, the software starts with an error message complaining about an illegal conversion to Double. If you continue, the software starts but the graphics area remains black.Install the .NET 4.5 Framework and the software should run correctly afterwards!Please try it and feel free to request activation codes. But make sure to mention if you need a code for the SMA or the SSA3021X version!My e-mail is vma at norcam dot com.Regards,Vitor

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2017, 04:14:36 pm
content: Update2:Windows 7 (and below) is not supported.My software uses WebSockets, which is not implemented in Windows 7 (only Windows 8 upwards).This means that you need Windows 8, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10.You can use a virtual machine running Windows 10, though. Just use free Oracle Virtual Box and use the free enterprise demo of Windows 10.Sorry about this......but I never guessed that so many people are still using Windows XP (huge security risk - do NOT use Windows XP connected to network) or Windows 7.Regards,Vitor

author: videobruce
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2017, 01:20:27 pm
content: Other than NetFramework, does this need any other software and/or drivers like that (so called) EasySpectrum does?? Namely that bloated National Instruments joke.

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2017, 01:30:30 pm
content: Hi,It does not require anything else - you just need Windows 8, 8.1 or 10 and the .net Framework, which should be pre-installed anyway.Other than that, you just download a ZIP file and extract the folder to whereever you like. There isn't even an installation - just run the executable. It does need to find the two included folders (with satellite transponder lists and pictures for the GPS mapping), so don't try to run the executable from within the ZIP.But please note that my software has a different goal than EasySpectrum. In my software, I built "my own spectrum analyzer" using the trace obtained from the SSA3021X (of course my software sets the required frequencies, span, RBW/VBW and attenuation). All further functionality is done within my software and not using any SSA functionality. Thus, it does not rely on any active options.EasySpectrum, however, basically recreates a GUI for all SSA functionality. You can 100% remote control the SSA3021X. My software does not provide that.My goal was to implement common Spectrum Analyser functionality, but then I wanted to have a platform to develop my own functions, like the transponder recognition, GPS mapping, mask functionality with e-mail alarm, etc.Regards,Vitor

author: Yansi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2017, 01:36:58 pm
content: I think installing Win10 or the .NET bullshitware is more serious security risk than keeping a WinXP station alive connected to the internet.

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2017, 01:49:21 pm
content: QuoteNo offense, but this is a common myth. Windows XP was launched 2001 and it's support officially ended 2009 (extended support in 2012). See here:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_XP#End_of_support.This means that Windows XP is now 16 years old! It would be the same like running Red Hat 7.1 Linux with kernel 2.4.2!Windows XP is a 32 bit operating system (there was an almost useless 64bit version), which is outdated, has no support, no bug fixes and above all, no security fixes. Running Windows XP connected to the internet is a huge security risk, as there are KNOWN bugs which ARE being used by criminals.Here is an article, if you care:https://www.wired.com/2017/05/still-use-windows-xp-prepare-worst/I do accept that there is equipment (from instruments to machines) that use a controller based on Windows XP. Changing that could mean throwing away a working unit. But a regular computer? No acceptable. A usable laptop can be purchased for as little as 400 Euro (there are even cheaper ones).And while one may not like it for whatever reason, Windows 10 is NOT bad. Certainly not worse than any commercial Linux distribution or MacOS. You may dislike this or that functionality, you may be concerned about privacy issues (but then, you should be really concerned when using Windows XP connected to the internet), but the fact is: Windows 10 is pretty stable, fast and modern.Also, .net is not that much bullshitware. It is a modern framework and certainly not worse than Java.Sometimes one has to go along with time and just allow the changes to happen!Example: we sell a complex CAM software. They changed the GUI in the latest version to a ribbon bar GUI. The first impression was of shock and "that will never work" and "it sucks". After two weeks we look at the old GUI and smile on how old it looks...Regards,Vitor

author: videobruce
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2017, 01:55:59 pm
content: Quote from: Bicurico on July 02, 2017, 04:14:36 pm1. I use XP on my laptop. There are older pieces of test equipment that won't run on Win7 or newer.2. I run Win7 on both of my towers (desktops). I can't imagine ever running W10. Ther GUI sucks. The reinvented the wheel from round to square.3. Any edition of M$ is a security risk.

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2017, 01:59:13 pm
content: That's OK and your own choice.Unfortunatly that means you won't be able to use my software......unless you install Windows 8, 8.1 or 10 in a virtual machine.And don't get me wrong - I maintain an old hp laptop with Windows XP exactly to connect it to older gear like the genius G540 programmer, car releated diagnose tools, JTAG interfaces, smartcard programmer, etc.But all my main computers are running on Windows 10 - I haven't had a single issue.Regards,Vitor