analyzer

An analyzer, also spelled analyser in British English, is a device, instrument, software, or person that examines a subject to determine its components, properties, or behavior. Analyzers are used across science, engineering, information technology, and industry to produce quantitative or qualitative results.

In chemical analysis, analyzers may measure composition, concentration, or purity using techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, titration, or electrical conductivity. Industrial analyzers monitor process streams for moisture, gas content, or contamination. Gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, and infrared spectrometers are common examples.

In computing, lexical analyzers (tokenizers) and parsers are core components of compilers, transforming source code into tokens and an abstract syntax tree. Static code analyzers examine source code for errors, style violations, and security issues without executing it. Network or traffic analyzers capture, decode, and analyze packets to monitor performance or detect intrusions.

In signal processing, spectrum analyzers and waveform analyzers inspect frequency content and time-domain characteristics of signals. Audio analyzers measure sound quality and loudness; power analyzers assess electrical power parameters such as voltage, current, and harmonic distortion.

The reliability of an analyzer depends on calibration, reference standards, and proper use. Because results are only as good as data quality and methods, analysts typically document methodology and uncertainties.