Rohde & Schwarz has developed a single-box copmact vector tester that operates over a wide frequency range from 400 MHz to 8 GHz and is optimized for 5G FR1 base station, small cell and RF component testing in production and characterization environments. The R&S®PVT360 A Vector Tester offers flexible bandwidth configuration and an optional second TRX channel that provides the necessary performance and enables flexible adaptation in a small form factor.
Keycode options for hardware extensions
The basic R&S®PVT360A configuration with the R&S®PVT-B106H option supports a frequency range of 400 MHz to 6 GHz and a bandwidth of 250 MHz on the first TRX, but the instrument comes fully equipped and calibrated for its maximum configuration. The instrument allows users to further extend the bandwidth to 500 MHz and provides an option for a second TRX channel, activating the frequency range up to 8 GHz.
Components Integrated into this Vector Tester
This vector tester includes two independent signal generators and analyzers with an integrated RF switch matrix that enable fast parallelized measurements. Each of the optionally two generators can broadcast signals on up to 8 RF output ports and the signals analysis path can be assigned to one of the 8 RF input ports.
Hardware-Accelerated Test Sequencing
Speed is essential when performing multiple tests. The R&S®PVT360A provides test automation and hardware-accelerated test sequencing for extremely fast measurements. Using the ARB sequencer, waveforms can directly be queried from the RAM. The integrated signal generator and analyzer enable seamless interaction between the transmit and receive paths.
Smart Channel
The R&S PVT360A integrates R&S®PVT-K108, a smart channel option that virtually divides the R&S®PVT360A into as many as eight sub-instruments. Virtual pairs of signal generators and analyzers can be controlled independently of one another. While the generator and analyzer hardware are shared across the virtual instruments, processing and calculation is parallelized for maximum utilization and speed.
Operating Methods
Manual Operation
The GUI of the R&S®PVT360A, accessible via a web interface or with a connected monitor, provides a structured overview of signal generation and analysis settings. In the “Test Environment”-tab different measurement applications can be assigned. The “Workspace”-tab provides an extensive toolbox with all settings and results. When using the smart channel feature, separate workspace tabs enable easy control of different virtual instruments.
Automated Processing
The R&S®PVT360A comes with SCPI support and Python libraries for easy automated testing. ARB sequencing allows ARB files to be accessed directly from the RAM, eliminating file loading times. Hardware based test sequencing further increases test speeds for excellent measurement throughput.
Testing State-of-the-Art Cellular Technologies
The R&S®PVT360A provides measurement capabilities to test the physical layer of base stations and small cells. With frequencies up to 8 GHz and an optional bandwidth configuration of up to 500 MHz, all FR1 frequency bands are covered by the R&S PVT360A. Multi-component carriers can be tested and the optional two pairs of vector signal generators and analyzers enable real MIMO measurements. Standard-compliant signal generation and analysis for 5G NR release 15, 16, and 17 provide comprehensive test capabilities.
This cost-effective vector tester provides automation capabilities and sets new standards for speed. Packed in a small form factor, the R&S®PVT360A is easy to stack and packs robust feature density into its 19"/2 HU size. Users can remotely test their products using this tester and utilize its automation capabilities for easy integration into various testbeds. The included test routines are in-line with 3GPP requirements, greatly simplifying the overall test process.
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