Aeroflex 3515AR Portable Radio Communications Test Set
The Aeroflex 3515AR is a rugged battery powered test set for checking tactical radio systems in the field. It is not a radio itself. It is used to verify that portable man pack, vehicle, and aircraft radios are mission ready. It can isolate a fault to the radio the antenna or the cabling in minutes without removing or disconnecting the radio from its platform. The Aeroflex 3515AR series is now offered under the VIAVI name (formerly Aeroflex later Cobham AvComm).
Key Features
- Stand-off radio testing: tests tactical radios across 2 MHz to 1 GHz without breaking into the radio signal path
- Fault isolation: pinpoints whether a failure is in the radio antenna or cable of nearly any platform
- Built-in instruments: includes a spectrum analyzer an oscilloscope and a test script language for automating tests including test instructions and data collection
- Ready-made test scripts: for radios and systems such as the PRC-117F, PRC-148, fixed wing and rotary aircraft, vehicles, and data radios
- Simple operation: a quick Go/No Go test for fast checks plus guided scripts that walk less experienced users through each test so minimal training is needed
- High power measurement: up to 20 W directly with no external attenuator and up to 200 W with an external attenuator
- AM/FM transmitter tests: RF power, RF frequency error, AM modulation and FM deviation, audio frequency counter, and received signal strength
- AM/FM receiver tests: DCS generator, distortion, and SINAD/sensitivity
- Antenna and cable tests: VSWR, distance to fault, return loss, and cable loss
- Talk test: verify audio using a handset and antenna
- Portable and battery powered: about 8 lb (3.6 kg) with battery with roughly 5 hours of operation and a 4 hour recharge
- Military-grade ruggedness: meets MIL-PRF-28800F for humidity, altitude, shock, and vibration in a weatherproof case rated for -20 °C to +50 °C
Typical Applications
- Front line maintenance of tactical ground, vehicle, and airborne radios
- Pre mission readiness checks
- Troubleshooting antenna and coax problems on vehicles and aircraft
- Depot and field service of military and government communications equipment
- Calibration and repair shop radio testing
Why Choose It
The Aeroflex 3515AR replaces several separate instruments with one lightweight field ready unit. It tells operators quickly whether a radio is mission ready and where the problem lies if it isn’t cutting downtime and unnecessary removal of equipment.
