How to innovate in 5G testing? ADI helps Rohde & Schwarz do this

The new 5G ecosystem will be built with technologies that create connections faster with lower latency, while enabling the connection of a greater number of devices than previous generations of technology. These applications bring challenging new device requirements , requiring test and measurement equipment to have two key capabilities:

1. Measure performance across a wider spectrum, including 28 GHz and 39 GHz mmWave

2. Make these measurements at higher signal-to-noise ratios over previously unsurpassed bandwidths (>1 GHz)

Electronic test and measurement always needs to stay ahead of the latest technology. When the technology is as disruptive and impactful as 5G, gaining and maintaining leadership often requires strong relationships with suppliers who can serve as both partners and component providers. As wireless broadband technology continues to evolve with each generation, ETM manufacturers have typically been able to rely on high-volume software upgrades to accommodate changes and make lower-risk changes to hardware, given that the frequencies used are well known. The move to 5G will require even more advanced solutions as the industry moves to millimeter-wave radio transmissions.

This collaborative approach ensured that both companies had aligned goals, giving Rohde & Schwarz confidence that the ADI solution would meet the project's high-performance requirements.

Rohde & Schwarz has developed the R&S®SMW200A vector signal generator and the R&S®FSW signal and spectrum analyzer. Both enable high-frequency testing with a low noise floor, creating value for a wide range of applications. The two instruments are designed to meet 5G challenges by generating and analyzing wide modulation bandwidth millimeter-wave signals up to 2 GHz, far exceeding the noise levels required by end devices. The two devices are testing the building blocks of next-generation 5G devices, covering millimeter-wave frequencies and traditional sub-6 GHz cellular frequencies. Both products use data converters and RF components from Analog Devices.

With converters and RF components from Analog Devices, the R&SSMW200A vector signal generator provides up to 2 GHz modulation bandwidth at internal baseband, meeting the requirements of 4th and 5th generation standards. At the same time, the product is designed to meet future needs, with a modular, scalable architecture that allows users to optimize the generator for their application and upgrade it when needed.

The R&S®FSW signal and spectrum analyzer uses advanced high-speed converter technology to help provide IF/RF sampling with excellent speed and linearity. This enables the R&S®FSW to meet the ever-increasing demand for analysis bandwidths up to 2 GHz.

For Rohde & Schwarz customers, bringing next-generation product ideas to market starts with making sure they work properly. This means the test equipment needs to perform better than the device under test. Finding the right specifications in the data sheet is just the beginning. Being able to work closely with the right supplier and get effective help to get the most out of their products makes all the difference.

All of this means that Rohde & Schwarz can focus its resources on creating more value for end customers.

Not all ETM manufacturers have the resources to develop every part of the signal chain. Instead, they may need to rely on suppliers’ products and technologies. ADI offers a very broad and complete portfolio of high-speed converters and RF products for the next generation of broadband instrumentation, supporting bandwidths of more than 4 GHz. At the same time, ADI has deep expertise in the ETM market to support customers. Bosworth said: "We not only develop innovative technologies and products, but also look forward to finding innovative ways to help customers use them. This allows us to provide extensive help. Our system engineering team fills the resource gap by providing support, services, and designing complete instrument-level signal chains."

For many industries, the 5G future is just around the corner. As 5G draws closer, the focus shifts to the world of electronic test and measurement. Therefore, for ETM manufacturers, 5G has already arrived. The unprecedented technology of the 5G ecosystem will increase the demand for ETM products to measure performance across a wider spectrum and perform measurements over wider bandwidths.

For ETM companies, meeting the 5G challenge requires not only new products with enhanced capabilities, but also new relationships to leverage expertise and collaboration. Rohde & Schwarz has the knowledge, capabilities, and skills required for the 5G market. It can also rely on its partnership with Analog Devices to provide components and support. Together with Analog Devices, Rohde & Schwarz is developing leading-edge products that provide reliable measurements for the building blocks of the 5G future.

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