Question 1

Could i use this device to determine if there are 5g towers in my town? distinguishing between 3/4/5g? it's for a research project.

Accepted Answer

In my opinion the tinySA would not be helpful for studying 3G, 4G or 5G cellular networks. The upper frequency limit for measurement with my tinySA is 960 MHz.  Approximate frequencies for cellular service are as follows:
1G operated at a frequency of around 850 MHz and 1900 MHz.
2G and 3G networks operate at additional frequency bands and spectrum around 2100 MHz.
4G LTE operates at additional frequency bands around 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 1.7/2.1 GHz, 2.3 GHz, and 2.5 GHz.
5G operates on two bands FR1 is 450 MHz-7.125 GHz and FR2 is 24.25 GHz & 52.6 GHz.
Most cellular frequencies far exceed the upper frequency limit for the tinySA and cannot be observed using it. Where signals are observed below 960 MHz, its likely that 3G, 4G, and 5G signals and probably other services will share spectrum. One probably cannot get enough info to know which signals are of a certain generation – 4G vs 5G vs 3G.

Question 2

Anyone compare the readings on this spectrum analyzer to a different spectrum analyzer to see if the readings are accurate?

Accepted Answer

There are quite accurate.

Question 3

Can this be used to analyze TV antenna signals and help to aim it?  Connect directly to the 75 ohm antenna wire?

Accepted Answer

It is possible to use the TinySA to measure the signal level of a TV channel while positioning an antenna, but it isn’t easy to do so and it requires a good understanding of some mechanical and more complex electronics issues. 
Two of the simpler issues one may have to deal with are: 
1.	You may not be able to see the screen display well enough if you use this instrument outdoors or other bright lighted areas.
2.	 Attaching a coaxial cable like RG-59 or RG-6, typically used with TV antennas, to the TinySA is problematic. A between-series adapter is usually required (a type “F” female input to type “SMA” male output being typical). The torque imposed by holding and moving the TinySA with the adapter and coax attached can damage the TinySA – especially its SMA connector. 
I do not recommend the TinySA for most people. It is a great little instrument for little cost, but it’s not meant for the inexperienced or non-technically minded. Check out the TinySA website and read the Wiki or download and read the manual. Technical information about the TV signal(s) you want to measure must be found elsewhere. If you are not overwhelmed by all the information, then the TinySA may be just what you are looking for.

Question 4

Has anyone used this to measure the harmonics generated by an analog synthesizer's oscillator? 100kHz lower threshold still seems high.

Accepted Answer

You need an audio spectrum analyzer. I don't think this would work for you.

Manufacturer	AURSINC
Part number	Tinysa Spetrum Analyzer
Item Weight	130 g
Product Dimensions	9.78 x 5.99 x 1.7 cm; 130 g
Batteries	1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included)
Item model number	TinySA Spectrum Analyzer
Item Package Quantity	1
Measurement Accuracy	+/-0.5%
Included components	Tinysa
Batteries included?	Yes
Batteries Required?	Yes
Battery Cell Type	Lithium Ion

Portable Tinysa Spectrum Analyzer, AURSINC V0.3.1 Handheld Frequency Analyzer, Signal Generator 100kHz to 960MHz MF/HF/VHF UHF Input ESD Protected Function with 2.8 inch Touchscreen

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