BIRD ELECTRONIC CORPORATION SA-2500EX SITE ANALYZER 780-2500 MHZ PARTS ONLY 12:33

The Bird SA-2500EX is a high-end, portable RF Site Master Analyzer or Cable and Antenna Analyzer. Its primary function is to test and certify the integrity of RF transmission systems, such as those used in cellular, microwave, and public safety networks.

The critical phrase here is “PARTS ONLY”, which drastically changes the value and intended use of this unit.

Key Features & Specifications (When Functional)

• Manufacturer: Bird Technologies (A legendary and highly respected American company specializing in RF testing, measurement, and management equipment since 1942). Their products are industry standards for reliability and accuracy.

• Model: SA-2500EX Site Analyzer

• Frequency Range: 780 – 2500 MHz. This covers critical bands for:

  • Cellular Networks: GSM, CDMA, 3G, 4G LTE, and early 5G frequencies.

  • Wireless Communication: Public Safety (800 MHz), SMR, Trunked Radio.

  • Microwave Links: Point-to-point communication systems.

  • Wi-Fi: 2.4 GHz band.

• Core Functions (When Working):

  1. Return Loss / VSWR Measurement: The most important function. It measures how much signal is reflected back from the antenna system. High return loss (or low VSWR) indicates a healthy system; poor readings indicate a fault (e.g., cable crush, water damage, bad connector, antenna failure).

  2. Distance-to-Fault (DTF): This advanced feature can pinpoint the exact location (in meters or feet) along the coaxial cable where an impedance fault is located, saving hours of troubleshooting.

  3. Cable Loss Measurement: Measures the signal loss through the length of the coaxial cable.

  4. Power Measurement: Can measure the power being transmitted through the system.

What is it used for? (Purpose of a Functional Unit)

Technicians use this analyzer to:

• Install and maintain cellular base stations.

• Troubleshoot and certify public safety radio systems (e.g., for police, fire, ambulance).

• Commission and maintain microwave radio links.

• Ensure wireless network reliability by verifying antenna systems are operating correctly before and after installation.

The Critical Meaning of “PARTS ONLY”

This designation means the unit is non-functional, broken, or for salvage only. It is being sold as-is for parts, with no expectation that it powers on or performs any of its intended functions.

Reasons for a “PARTS ONLY” status:

• Failed Display: The LCD screen is cracked or dead.

• Internal Damage: Water damage, physical damage from a drop, or power surge.

• Boot Failure: Will not power on or initialize.

• Calibration Failure: Cannot be calibrated to meet accuracy specs.

• Keypad Failure: Buttons are unresponsive.

Who is this for? (Ideal User for a “PARTS ONLY” Unit)

This is NOT for a technician who needs a tool for fieldwork. It is for a very specific buyer:

1. Electronics Repair Specialist: A technician who specializes in repairing Bird analyzers and needs donor boards (e.g., a known-good power supply board, RF module, or keypad) to fix another unit.

2. Parts Salvager: Someone who will harvest specific components (connectors, housing, screws, knobs) to sell individually.

3. Advanced Hobbyist/Tinkerer: Someone with the skills to potentially diagnose and repair it, understanding it is a high-risk project with a likely low chance of success.