Rohde & Schwarz and Samsung have partnered to validate secure ranging test scenarios for the ultra-wideband (UWB) physical layer and evaluate secure receiver attributes of devices according to FiRa specifications. The latest FiRa 2.0 Technical Specifications introduce new test scenarios aimed at thwarting physical layer attacks on secure ranging applications utilizing UWB technology.
Rohde & Schwarz is dedicated to creating a safer and more connected world through its divisions focusing on Test & Measurement, Technology Systems, and Networks & Cybersecurity. With a history spanning 90 years, this global technology group has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in various cutting-edge technologies.
Their advanced products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory, and government clients to achieve technological and digital independence. As a privately owned company headquartered in Munich, Rohde & Schwarz is able to operate independently and with a long-term sustainable approach. In the fiscal year 2022/2023 (July to June), the company achieved a net revenue of EUR 2.78 billion.
Samsung is a source of inspiration and a driver of innovation, pioneering transformative concepts and technologies. It is reshaping the landscapes of TVs, smartphones, wearable tech, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry, and LED solutions.
The FiRa Consortium is a group of members focused on revolutionizing our interactions with the world. They aim to enhance location awareness for both individuals and devices through the secure and precise ranging and positioning features of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. FiRa achieves this by leading the creation of technical standards and certifications, promoting suitable regulations, and outlining a wide range of applications for UWB.
After successfully completing the FiRa® Consortium validation process, the Rohde & Schwarz CMP200 radio communication tester has been officially certified for FiRa 2.0 PHY testing. This certification confirms its capability as a reliable tool for testing the physical layer of UWB applications. The collaboration between Rohde & Schwarz and Samsung in verifying physical layer security test cases enhances the security of standardized UWB applications against potential malicious attacks.
UWB technology offers unique advantages, including secure fine ranging, which relies on accurate Time of Flight (ToF) estimation and relative position determination. Consequently, UWB-enabled devices can precisely and securely measure the distance and direction of connected devices. These capabilities make UWB technology suitable for various applications, such as indoor navigation, social distancing monitoring, hands-free access systems, asset tracking, ticket validation, mobile payment solutions, and point-and-trigger applications.
By implementing the PHY Secure Ranging test cases specified in the FiRa 2.0 Test Specifications and verifying them with Samsung’s latest UWB Chipset, Rohde & Schwarz has taken a significant step toward establishing an interoperable UWB ecosystem that encompasses chipsets, devices, and services infrastructures. Rohde & Schwarz has recently incorporated Ultra-Wideband (UWB) test capabilities into the R&S CMP200 radio communication tester, making it the sole test platform on the market that can handle both 5G mmWave / FR2 and UWB functions for R&D and production RF tests.
This integration is particularly useful for tackling UWB test challenges in mass production and R&D settings. The R&S CMP200 serves as a combined signal analyzer and signal generator, streamlining the testing process. When paired with Rohde & Schwarz shielded chambers and automation software WMT, it offers a comprehensive solution for conducting transmitter, receiver, Time of Flight (ToF), and Angle of Arrival (AoA) measurements in both conducted and radiated modes, adhering to IEEE 802.15.4a/z specifications.
Christoph Pointner, Senior Vice President for Mobile Radio Testers at Rohde & Schwarz, emphasized the company’s dedication to creating a safer and more connected world. He highlighted their commitment to ensuring that new wireless technologies are resilient to malicious attacks, citing their collaboration with Samsung for early verification of the FiRa PHY Security Parameter feature as an example.
Joonsuk Kim, the Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics’ Connectivity Development Team, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Rohde & Schwarz to enhance global connectivity and safety standards. Leveraging their expertise in IEEE 802.15.4a/z standard-based UWB solutions, this partnership aims to ensure FiRa Certification compliance and promote interoperability among UWB devices.
Samsung’s leadership in UWB technology, coupled with Rohde & Schwarz’s contributions, promises to deliver enhanced services and user experiences. The R&S CMP200 radio communication tester, featuring integrated UWB test capabilities, will be showcased at Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona at hall 5, booth 5A80.
