Multi-dimensional median filtering for processing network and spectrum analyzer information

The author describes the use of median filtering to enhance the readability of the trace information of such instruments as network analyzers and spectrum analyzers. A class of mildly recursive median filters (MRMFs) is described, and application to a spectrum analyzer is demonstrated. The results show that a 41% improvement in Gaussian noise, using an MRMF with a window size of three samples, is possible. The MRMF turns out to have considerably better performance for very small window sizes than nonrecursive MFs