Viasat and Rohde & Schwarz have joined forces to boost testing for Narrowband Non-terrestrial Networks (NB-NTN) IoT devices connecting via satellite. By thoroughly validating devices and confirming interoperability with Viasat’s network, the collaboration aims to help ensure uninterrupted connectivity for a wide range of satellite-based Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Visitors to MWC Barcelona 2026 can experience the test plan in action.
Viasat, a global leader in satellite communications, and Rohde & Schwarz, a leading provider of test and measurement solutions, are working together to strengthen and expand testing for Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) capabilities, specifically for NB-IoT devices. The collaboration aims to ensure that chipsets, modules, and devices interoperate seamlessly with Viasat’s satellite network and comply with 3GPP Release 17 standards.
Deploying advanced testing methodologies upholds the highest standards of quality, performance, and reliability for Viasat’s connectivity services: delivering ubiquitous IoT applications in areas without terrestrial network coverage.
The certification test plan with Viasat entails protocol, performance, and RF test scenarios. It is based on the CMX500 one-box signaling tester from Rohde & Schwarz, a versatile solution designed for testing various NTN technologies, including New Radio (NR-NTN) and NB-NTN. In a single instrument, the CMX500 covers R&D through certification and carrier acceptance tests, guaranteeing reliable and repeatable results. It empowers engineers to accelerate development, ensure quality, and confidently deploy reliable NTN services, safeguarding that the whole ecosystem can achieve the highest levels of performance.
Rohde & Schwarz is showcasing the first test results covering protocol, performance, and RF test scenarios of the test plan at the Rohde & Schwarz booth 5A80 in hall 5 from March 2 to 5, 2026, at MWC Barcelona 2026.
Click here to learn more about CMX500 for NTN testing from Rohde & Schwarz.
