Generator and analyser come together for WiMAX

By combining two high-end instruments, Rohde and Schwarz now offers a futureproof measurement solution for WiMAX applications.

By combining two high-end instruments, Rohde and Schwarz now offers a futureproof measurement solution for WiMAX applications.

The instruments generate and analyse signals with a bandwidth of up to 28MHz in accordance with the 802.16-2004 OFDM standard.

Further expansions such as 802.16-2004 OFDMA or 802.16e have already been prepared.

Thanks to a wide variety of options, users can now configure measurement solutions to meet their specific requirements.

By providing greater range and the prospect of mobile applications, the future looks promising for WiMAX.

Manufacturers developing WiMAX applications must thoroughly analyse their RF characteristics.

Rohde and Schwarz now offers an all-in-one measurement solution consisting of the R and S SMU200A vector signal generator and the R and S FSQ signal analyser for developing and certifying the new technology.

Only a few operating steps are necessary for the R and S SMU200A to generate signals for OFDM receiver tests in accordance with the IEEE802.16-2004 standard.

In addition to predefined test signals, any other scenario can be generated using the R and S SMU200A.

Up to eight bursts with user-definable power and payload can be set both in the downlink and the uplink mode.

With its single-path design, the R and S SMU200A is particularly suitable for measuring the maximum input level or receiver sensitivity.

The two-path version of the vector signal generator additionally generates OFDM-modulated interfering signals.

Thus, adjacent-channel leakage ratio (ACLR) can now be determined with a single instrument.

If required, measurements with superimposed noise and tests under fading conditions can be performed as well.

The WiMAX measurement solution can also be implemented using other Rohde and Schwarz signal generators: the R and S SMATE has been specifically designed for tests in production, the R and S SMJ100A for less sophisticated receiver tests.

The R and S FSQ records all generated signals and analyses them - directly in the baseband, if necessary.

A demodulation bandwidth of 28MHz makes it possible to analyse the modulation quality of WiMAX OFDM signals in accordance with the standard.

The R and S FSQ-B72 option handles even higher demodulation bandwidths of up to 120MHz.

The analyser comes in various models up to a maximum frequency of 40GHz.

A clear-cut table displays all important parameters such as EVM value, I/Q offset, quadrature error or crest factor.

Moreover, the exact measurement correlations can be graphically output: EVM values against time or frequency, frequency and phase error, frequency response or group delay.

In addition, the R and S FSQ also performs typical conformance applications such as ACLR measurements or spectrum mask analysis.

SCPI commands allow remote control via IEC/IEEE bus or LAN, which is particularly beneficial for use in production.

The complete WiMAX measurement solution is now available from Rohde and Schwarz.

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