Compact 5G Test Solution

With 5G becoming reality, the demand for production test solutions for 5G devices is growing. However, high-volume testing in the mmWave frequency range (FR2) brings new challenges. For example, DUTs must be validated in an over-the-air environment. To meet these challenges, Rohde & Schwarz has developed the compact R&S CMPQ, a fully integrated production test solution from a single supplier. The concept is based on a radio communication tester and a shielding solution, providing accurate and reliable measurement results under radiated conditions.

The test solution consists of the R&S CMP200 radio communication tester, the R&S CMPHEAD30 remote radio heads (RRH) and the R&S CMQ200 shielding cube. Because Rohde & Schwarz manufactures all system components, they are matched exactly to get a reliable and efficient test setup, ensuring optimal system parameters.

The R&S CMP200 radio communication tester combines vector signal analyzer and ARB generator functionality. It can generate and analyze IF frequencies from 6 GHz to 20 GHz directly at the output; for higher 5G FR2 frequency ranges, R&S CMPHEAD30 takes over this function.

The R&S CMQ200 is a compact, flexible 19" shielding solution that uses a drawer concept enabling automated handling in a manufacturing environment for the frequencies from 20 to 77 GHz. The robust mechanical design ensures millions of test cycles for reliable mass production environments. 5G devices operating in the mmWave range (FR2) require over-the-air (OTA) testing since these devices usually have no RF port or interface to connect to, and conducted tests are therefore not possible.

For high-volume testing of 5G devices operating in FR1, the company will showcase its well-known R&S CMW100 radio communication tester running latest 5G measurement and generator personalities. In addition to 5G, the industry-leading solution supports all major cellular standards (3G, 4G) and wireless technologies (Bluetooth, WLAN, etc.).

The challenges associated with 5G NR require high flexibility, end-to-end data testing solutions and reliable measurement methods. Rohde & Schwarz relies in its comprehensive portfolio of innovative 5G NR test solutions on the one-platform strategy, using the same technology, similar hardware and the same software in all test solutions. This makes test results comparable in all stages of testing from R&D to production. This strategy includes the R&S CMsquares, a new unified test software solution with a web-based user experience combining everything that is required for 5G NR testing. It covers test configuration, parameterization, as well as test execution in a single environment with a dashboard style and quick access to different types of applications. Users can control all new 5G radio communication testers via a standardized GUI for a unified experience.