The development of 5G mmWave phased array antenna modules (PAAMs) necessitates accurate and efficient over-the-air (OTA) testing. In this regard, leading companies Rohde & Schwarz, Fujikura, and Avnet have collaborated to validate the CATR OTA test systems for 5G mmWave phased array antenna R&D testing. This article highlights the significance of OTA testing, discusses the collaboration between the three companies, and explores the advanced solutions they offer for 5G mmWave PAAMs.
Designing a 5G FR2 phased array antenna module requires comprehensive testing, including OTA measurements. Traditional radiation patterns alone are insufficient to evaluate parameters such as equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) and effective isotropic sensitivity (EIS). OTA testing provides valuable insights into the performance of PAAMs in real-world scenarios, enabling system architects to optimize tuning parameters and enhance overall system efficiency.
Rohde & Schwarz, Fujikura, and Avnet have joined forces to validate the new development kit for 5G mmWave phased array antenna modules. The partnership aims to enable system architects to prototype and optimize tuning parameters using AMD Xilinx’s Zynq UltraScale+ RFSoC Gen3 and Fujikura’s FutureAcess Phased Array Antenna Module (PAAM). This collaboration leverages the expertise of all three companies to create advanced solutions for 5G mmWave PAAM development.
Rohde & Schwarz’s R&S ATS800B benchtop CATR OTA test system offers an ideal solution for prototype testing in an open environment. Fujikura, in collaboration with Rohde & Schwarz, has validated this test system for R&D testing of 5G mmWave phased array antennas. The R&S ATS800B delivers accurate and repeatable measurement results, facilitates easy device under test (DUT) access, and enables simultaneous measurements in horizontal and vertical polarizations. These capabilities are particularly valuable during the early stages of design and verification.
Rohde & Schwarz has been working with Avnet to integrate remote controls for Rohde & Schwarz test instruments into the Avnet RFSoC Explorer software. This integration aims to provide a seamless experience for controlling the entire signal chain from baseband to mmWave. Additionally, it enables the automation of mmWave measurements through a single graphical user interface and application programming interface, streamlining the testing process.
Fujikura plans to expand its collaboration with Rohde & Schwarz by validating the R&S ATS800R, a rack-mountable anechoic CATR chamber. This chamber will allow for more accurate 3D EIRP patterns over azimuth and elevation and facilitate the assessment of heat dissipation during measurements using thermal imaging. The joint workshop hosted by Rohde & Schwarz, Fujikura, and Avnet at IMS 2023 in San Diego provides an opportunity for industry professionals to explore the capabilities of the R&S ATS800B and engage in evaluation measurements and analyses.
The collaboration between Rohde & Schwarz, Fujikura, and Avnet represents a significant advancement in the field of OTA testing for 5G mmWave phased array antenna R&D. The integration of advanced test systems and software solutions enables system architects to design and prototype PAAMs more efficiently. The validation of the R&S ATS800B and plans for future collaborations underscore the commitment of these companies to provide accurate and reliable OTA testing solutions,