Anritsu has developed the fastest comprehensive front haul test solution that ensures the proper installation and operation of high-speed LTE networks. With the new CPRI RF module installed in the Network Master Pro MT1000A, wireless carrier engineers and technicians responsible for optical fiber testing, and solving interference and PIM issues can use a single handheld solution for accurate and efficient LTE CPRI testing and verification of the latest generation of tower mounted radios (Remote Radio Heads, RRH).
The system has a fast sweep speed, allowing it to conduct measurements up to 10x faster than comparable handheld test solutions. The result is that users can capture all interfering signals, including intermittent or “bursty” interferers missed by current alternatives. Incorporating a Spectrum/Spectrogram Tune & Zoom feature, the device allows users to zoom in on an area of interest to provide more detailed information for better identification of an interfering signal’s origin.
Support for all leading RRH radios is provided by the new CPRI RF module. It allows the device to conduct RF-based LTE measurements over a fiber optic CPRI link at ground level, eliminating the time-consuming and costly process of climbing a tower. Designed with two SFP ports, the RF module allows CPRI Spectrum, CPRI Spectrogram, SFP Data, and CPRI Layer 2 Alarms and Optical Power measurements to be made.
The module features pre-configured NEM (network element manufacturers) setups to simplify what has been one of the most difficult aspects to conducting RF measurements over CPRI. The result is reduced test set-up time and a lower possibility of errors for greater measurement confidence.
Compact, battery-powered and easy-to-use, the MT1000A provides everything needed to install and maintain communication networks in a rugged, field portable package. The mobile front haul fiber test functions of the device support comprehensive testing and analysis of CPRI and OBSAI technologies. It can be configured as a complete solution with support for OTDR and VIP (Visual Inspection Probe), to test the complete CPRI infrastructure. The device also supports CPRI interface rate Option 1 (614.4 Mbit/s) to Option 8 (10.1376 Gbit/s) to test current and future CPRI interfaces. It can identify problems in the mobile front haul rapidly, solve issues quickly, reduce system downtime and customer churn, and cut operating costs for mobile operators.
The lightweight MT1000A supports transport testing from 1.5 Mbps to 10 Gbps. An easy-to-use GUI and clear summaries simplify collecting and interpreting data, allowing users of any skill level to operate the instrument. High resolution and dynamic range ensure quick and thorough fiber evaluation, while intelligent analysis software identifies problem splices, connectors and macrobends.
Anritsu is offering a single-mode optical tap accessory and a combination single-mode/multi-mode 50 µm optical tap accessory as part of the solution. An SFP matching the connected CPRI link rate and optical cables are offered, as well.