Rod and Schwartz launched a new PVT360A integrated solution
2023-02-21
Rhode and Schwartz launched a new PVT360A integrated solution, which is applicable to the characterization and production testing of FR1 base stations, small base stations and RF components



In order to conduct high-speed and high-throughput tests on various types of 5G FR1 base stations and small base stations, as well as characterization or production tests on radio frequency components, Rhode and Schwartz (hereinafter referred to as "R&S" company) have launched a new R&S PVT360A performance vector tester. In a relatively small footprint, this compact single meter, with its excellent signal generation and analysis performance, meets the stringent requirements of test items such as minimum error vector amplitude (EVM) and high test throughput in the test signal. The optional second signal generation and analysis module can realize multi-port component testing, support True MIMO testing or directly double the testing capability.

Figure: R&S PVT360A is a production test application for 5G base stations, which achieves a perfect combination of relatively small space and excellent performance.

Rod and Schwartz launched a new R&S PVT360A performance vector tester. This is a VSG/VSA single meter tester, which optimizes the production and characterization of FR1 base station, small base station test and RF components, and meets the increasingly stringent requirements of the subsequent evolution versions of 3GPP R15 R16 and R17 for the testing of 5G NR FR1 base station and small base station. The frequency range of the instrument is from 400 MHz to 8 GHz, which not only covers all 5G FR1 frequency ranges, but also extends to the highest 7.125 GHz unauthorized frequency band in North America. The maximum signal bandwidth of 500 MHz is far more than the maximum 100 MHz of 5G FR1, and supports out-of-band and adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) measurement.

In order to achieve the maximum test throughput, two independent signal generation and analysis modules realize fast parallel measurement. Each channel supports eight parallel full-duplex test ports. Each channel of test signal output can be broadcast to all eight ports. The signal input selection can achieve fast switching between ports within 10 microseconds, so as to conduct sequential analysis of parallel or multi-port devices, And the transmit and receive tests can be completed in parallel. At the same time, R&S PVT360A optimizes the test sequence to reduce any idle time between result processing. After installing the second channel, users can perform True MIMO 2x2 parallel test on the signal instead of sequential test. The optional intelligent channel mode divides R&S PVT360A into up to 8 independent virtual instruments, each of which supports independent output signal and input measurement. Signal generation and analysis modules are shared among virtual instruments, and all calculations and processing are optimized for resource scheduling.

According to most production test requirements, the signal conforming to 5G NR R15/16/17 standard should meet the requirements of supporting all typical base station transmitter and receiver tests, such as EVM, output power or frequency error. Especially in the application of component characterization, developers need to find the test signal with the best performance. The low EVM of R&S PVT360A signal generation module provides high-precision test signals for minimum measurement uncertainty. If additional signal generation requirements are required, PC-based waveform generation software WinIQSIM2 can be used to create customized waveforms. For additional signal analysis requirements, R&S VSE Vector Signal Explorer, a PC-based signal analysis software, can be used to complete.

In order to meet the different requirements of the price-sensitive production and testing market for a single meter, the R&S PVT360A configuration selection supports the configuration of a single-channel signal generation and analysis module with 8 test ports, from a frequency of 400 MHz to 6 GHz, with a bandwidth of 250 MHz, to a complete dual-channel configuration with a frequency of 8 GHz and a bandwidth of 500 MHz. All upgrades are made through activation codes and can be installed immediately.

The new R&S PVT360A performance vector tester is now available from Rod and Schwartz. For more information, please visit: https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/product/pvt360a



Rohde&Schwarz

With its leading solutions in the fields of test and measurement, technical system, network and network security, Rhode and Schwartz Technology Group has paved the way for a more secure and interconnected world. The Group has been established for more than 85 years and is a reliable partner for global industrial customers and government customers. As of June 30, 2021, Rohde&Schwarz has about 13000 employees worldwide. The independent group achieved a net income of 2.34 billion euros in the fiscal year 2020/2021 (July to June). The company is headquartered in Munich, Germany.