Testing 5G NR products requires new T&M systems, as the devices will use a much higher bandwidth and, in addition, active antennas force over-the-air (OTA) measurements. To meet these needs and fully overcome these complex challenges, Rohde & Schwarz has created an innovative range of solutions that test 5G NR devices. Developers of 5G devices have at their disposal the "R&S CMX500 Radio Communication Tester" from Rohde & Schwarz that allows them to perform signaling tests in non-standalone (NSA) and standalone (SA) mode in the frequency ranges FR1 and FR2.
For most mobile network operators, the fifth generation of mobile communications will initially be an additional service for transmitting data at speeds of up to 20 Gbit/s. In order for developers to test their 5G NR mobile devices in non-standalone and standalone mode according to 3GPP specifications, the solution must accurately simulate LTE and 5G NR networks. For this, Rohde & Schwarz has developed a key solution, the R&S CMX500, which adds 5G functionality to its proven solutions for LTE, such as the R&S CMW500 or R&S CMWflexx that allow tests from 2G to 5G with a single platform. The R&S CMX500 is an extension system capable of performing different tests in the FR1 and FR2 frequency ranges, with or without signaling, as well as in NSA and SA modes, for applications ranging from R&D to certification tests.
Thanks to Rohde & Schwarz's "single platform" strategy, users use the same technology, the same hardware and software in all solutions and test and measurement stages, enabling them to achieve comparable results.
Signaling tests on FR1 and FR2 in non-autonomous mode
A key functionality of the R&S CMX500 is signaling tests in the FR2 and FR1 frequency ranges. The tests carried out in non-standalone mode (NSA) cover LTE and 5G connections, which makes it possible to verify the behavior of the LTE/5G signaling protocol and perform OTA RF/TX measurements, "end-to-end" data tests in LTE and 5G networks, as well as OTA signaling tests and RF measurements in the range of millimeter waves.
Signaling tests in the new FR2 mmWave frequency range require an OTA setup or test environment. For this, there is the CATR antenna verification system based on the R&S ATS800R rack with OTA functionality. Designed for the R&D sector, it performs measurements in the FR2 range and uses minimal space in the laboratory thanks to the fact that it combines a compact shielded chamber together with T&M equipment in a single system. The integrated surface of the state-of-the-art reflector offers a sufficiently large high-precision quiet zone. Rohde & Schwarz develops and manufactures all the components of the setup, thus ensuring the compatibility and consistently high quality of all instruments – a unique feature in the test and measurement industry.
Check 5G measurements with R&S CMsquares
In order to control the 5G radio testers, the configuration includes the new R&S CMsquares software solution. Unlike other solutions on the market, R&S CMsquares integrates in a single environment the simulation of all mobile phone networks with test configuration, parameterization, real-time measurements and results management for all use cases. important: from parametric RF testing, through protocol analysis, to end-to-end testing of the data flow.
R&S CMsquares guides the user very easily through customizable dashboards and workspaces that offer quick access to the different types of 5G measurements. It integrates a sequencer to run pre-configured or user-designed 5G NR test scripts, which are created using a simple drag-and-drop process.
Demonstration videos of this and other state-of-the-art solutions from Rohde & Schwarz for testing wireless communications are available at http://www.press.rohde-schwarz.com.
