Test Talk

Design and Testing Considerations as Data Centers Incorporate 400 Gbit Ethernet

October 31, 2022

Demand for information has been growing for over a decade. It is never more evident than in the exponential increase in data center traffic, as shown in figure 1. To accommodate that spike in usage – which will only continue – 400 Gbit Ethernet is quickly replacing 100 Gbit Ethernet in data centers. This transformation to the “fast lane” means a new approach to network design, architecture, and testing must be taken.

Figure 1: Data center traffic has been rising exponentially since 2010. (Courtesy of Cedric Lam, Google.)

Among the biggest challenges for engineers as data centers evolve are signal integrity, network interoperability, and maintaining service level agreements (SLAs). The end result is that data center operators and networking equipment manufacturers (NEMs) must optimize Ethernet technologies for speed, power, reach, and latency.

One way to meet these benchmarks is to rely on new network elements, such as optical transceivers and high-speed breakout cables. Data centers are transforming into multi-access edge computing networks and network virtualization, as well.

Another advance in data center architectures revolves around data center interconnects (DCIs), as they must now support 400 Gbit Ethernet. DCIs connect data centers to similar operations in the area, as well as routers, leaf and spine switches, top of rack (TOR) and middle of row (MOR) switches, and servers. 

Meeting the Need for Speed

Data transfer rates for server and compute elements are now typically 25 Gbit Ethernet, up from 10 Gbit Ethernet just a few years ago. This speed bump is nothing compared to what is predicted in the near horizon when 100 Gbit Ethernet is expected. These faster speeds are why engineers and data center operators must re-evaluate power, speed, reach, and latency. Here’s how:

Power – Data centers currently have access to maximum power. To meet higher speeds associated with 400 Gbit Ethernet, data center designers must develop innovative methods to use available power more efficiently. It is a key reason why optical transceivers are becoming a prominent component, as they reduce power while increasing bit rate.

Data Center Design – A holistic approach must be adopted to build a new generation of switches, routers, transceivers, NIC architecture, and physical design that supports 400 Gbit Ethernet and beyond. With open architecture becoming common in data center design, testing to verify compatibility between network elements is taking on greater importance, as well.

Latency – Latency key performance indicators (KPIs) are now tighter and are application-specific. From streaming and file storage to e-commerce and social media, consumers expect a high quality of service (QoS) every time. Because so much of the user experience relies on latency, it must be carefully considered when deploying Ethernet connects.

The Interconnectivity Issue

Another byproduct of faster data transport speeds is a shift from centralized models to distributed alternatives that use high-speed, low latency interconnections between resources. The high-speed sources distribute computing across multiple connected locations to create pooled resources for computing-intensive applications. Such a shared approach brings multiple benefits.

Coherent, pluggable 400Gbase-ZR optical modules can transport 400 Gbit Ethernet over individual wavelengths over various optical network devices. For designers and operators, ensuring 400 Gbit Ethernet network interoperability with multi-vendor pluggable modules becomes the challenge. While vendors follow approved industry standards, there are many ways to manipulate the registers related to optics, as well as cables. For these reasons, conducting interoperability testing to confirm different customer deployments and multi-vendor configurations are supported is critical.

Many data center operators use the Network Master™ Pro MT1040A to verify their network is meeting KPIs. To ensure consistent link quality, the MT1040A can measure KPIs frequently and across various demarcation points that may be managed by various providers (figure 2).

Figure 2: Ethernet MEC KPI for 5G applications.

Rise of Hyperscalers

As part of this explosive data usage, hyperscale data centers are being rolled out. They incorporate high-speed Ethernet optical interface advances so providers can increase their leaf-spine connections up to 400 Gbit Ethernet. As data center operators upgrade leaf-spine connections and deploy equipment from multiple vendors, interoperability challenges arise.

NEMs and data center designers must walk a thin tightrope that stretches between reach and cost in these applications. A good example is passive copper cables. They are economical but at the expense of a short reach. At the other end of the spectrum are multi-mode solutions that are more costly but have extended reach.

New high-speed breakout cables support up to 400 Gbit Ethernet and reduce deployment costs but present performance and distance tradeoffs. They use identical pluggable interface as optics, similar to quad small form-pluggables (QSFPs) or small form-factor pluggables (SFPs). There are fanout cables, however, in which one end supports the aggregate rate and the other is a series of disaggregated interfaces. 

Other Network Design Factors

Data processing units (DPUs) and infrastructure processing units (IPUs) are also helping to shape the new era of data centers (figure 3). DPUs are hardware accelerators that offload networking and communication workloads from the CPU. With the exponential increase in network traffic to the network interface card in the server, gains in software-defined networking (SDN) have put more stress on servers.

Figure 3: IPUs support the data center of the future. (Courtesy of Intel.)

IPUs accelerate and run the SDN and management software in hardware constructs away from server cores and can continue to run end customer applications. They also provide system-level security, control, and isolation. The software framework offers a common look and feel for users to make it easier to manage.

To accurately and repeatedly test optical interfaces, such as those outlined here, NEMs need high-speed bit error rate testers (BERTs), such as the Signal Quality Analyzer-R MP1900A, that support Ethernet rates up to 800 Gbits/s. Pluggable optical host interfaces have multiple lanes of PAM4 signals. Each carries forward error correction (FEC) patterns that are generated in the pluggable optic and converted to an optical waveform. The waveforms must be evaluated to determine signal integrity is maintained over the physical medium – whether it is optical or coax. The MP1900A supports comprehensive FEC measurements to verify emerging network elements.

Lightwave recently published a paper discussing the evolving data center. You can download a copy of Ethernet in Data Center Networks to learn more.

How Cloud Networking is Reshaping Communications and Associated Testing Processes

September 21, 2022

Cloud networks are quickly becoming the cornerstones upon which many emerging 5G, private network, and IoT use cases are being built. The reason? The cloud can effectively meet current latency and bandwidth requirements and efficiently be scaled to address future demand, as well. Two key reasons for those benefits are hyperscale data centers and multi-access edge computing (MEC).

Corresponding with the growth of cloud networking is hyperscale data centers. Based on the latest data, there are more than 700 hyperscale data centers. That number is expected to balloon to more than 1,000 in the next three years, according to Synergy Research Group (figure 1). The United States currently accounts for almost 40% of operational hyperscale data centers and half of all worldwide capacity. 

Figure 1: Hyperscale data center growth.

Hyperscale data centers are revolutionizing data storage by utilizing advanced hardware and software to achieve the necessary redundancies and scalability associated with cloud networks. MEC provides cloud computing capabilities at the edge of the network and are used by mobile operators, as well as for private 5G and telecom networks to achieve necessary specified latency and bandwidth.

Cloud networking has become the centerpiece of a new generation of use cases centered on IoT and 5G. Latency, as well as timing are so critical in these applications because throughput and bandwidth are key performance indicators (KPIs). Figure 2 provides a breakout of cloud computing and their associated typical latency requirements. Ensuring that level of performance has placed greater focus on test solutions and processes.

Figure 2: Cloud computing segments and associated typical latency requirements.

Understanding Hyperscale Data Centers

To effectively implement testing procedures, it is essential to understand each architecture. A hyperscale data center houses critical compute and network infrastructure. Global corporations, such as Google, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, and Microsoft, rely on this architecture to scale appropriately as increased demand is necessary. This typically involves the ability to seamlessly provide and add compute, memory, networking, and storage resources to a given node or set of nodes.

Hyperscale data centers have distinctly different design and management issues to support such enormous data, storage, and scalability. Network equipment manufacturers (NEMs) are innovating at breakneck speed to develop solutions to meet these high-bar requirements.

In parallel, test companies are introducing advanced solutions, so NEMS have confidence in their designs. They must validate that their products will interoperate with third-party equipment and meet KPIs in complex, open networks featuring multiple vendors.

Living on the Edge

MEC architecture moves the network to the edge. Collecting and processing data closer to the user lowers latency and brings real-time performance to high-bandwidth applications to better meet emerging IoT and 5G use cases.

Technical and architectural standards for MEC are primarily developed by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). MEC procedures are designed above the 3GPP access layers, providing an optimized route from the UE application client to the network hosted application servers.

Moving the network to the edge has changed how testing needs to be conducted. Interoperability and testing challenges include RAN slicing, and UE route selection policy (URSP) and MEC mechanisms. 

Creating an Open Environment

Creating a cloud environment that is functional and affordable has led to OpenRAN (O-RAN). O-RAN creates unprecedented flexibility to network architects, as well as delivers lower costs for vendors and operators. By lowering RAN costs, mobile operators can better support cost-sensitive 5G network use cases, including rural markets and private 5G networks.

Standards are created by the Telcom Infra Project (TIP). To further create a level of uniformity in an open environment that has a growing number of vendors, the O-RAN Alliance was established. It publishes specifications for 4G and 5G. Anritsu is a member of the alliance and is active in facilitating the testing of new O-RAN devices.

Maintaining Secure Environment

An increased focus on regulatory compliance, data privacy, and security has led to greater interest in protecting data in the cloud. Test tools must validate security efficacy against real-world application and security traffic that scales to defend against the largest distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks and advanced persistent threats (APTs).

Security is a concern because of O-RAN and scalability of the cloud. The open source architecture creates flexibility but, because there are so many vendors and COTS equipment is used, it is ripe for vulnerabilities that may expose the network. Factors such as flexible server infrastructure and autoscaling allow cloud networks to easily and efficiently expand or contract based on demand. They can also lead to security breaches.

Security testing must be conducted on equipment individually and at the system level. Additionally, latency spikes and packet loss can also occur during scaling, so testing for these performance parameters must be done.

End-to-end Connectivity

As applications and data become distributed across multiple cloud environments, as well as on-premises and at the edge, networking solutions need to provide seamless end-to-end connectivity. Data Center Interconnects (DCIs) utilizing 400G or 800G Ethernet connectivity serve as spokes to link these network hubs.

Ensuring such vital connections must be done before installation. So, network traffic emulation is done prior to deployment. Engineers need test solutions that simulate actual peak traffic loads to “stress test” the network equipment and ensure it will perform in the most demanding real-world scenarios.

Testing doesn’t end at deployment, of course. RF testing and certification, RAN transport, and similar measurements needs to be conducted in the field to verify systems. This is particularly important in emerging 5G use cases utilizing Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC), Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), and Massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC).

For example, Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), factory automation, and telemedicine have unique requirements related to latency, densification, bandwidth, and speed. Anritsu offers the Field Master Pro™ MS2090A handheld real time spectrum analyzer for RF signal testing and the Network Master Pro™ MT1040A Ethernet tester for optical measurements to ensure devices and systems meet specifications in mission critical use cases.

Recognizing the need for proper test processes and solutions for emerging applications, Anritsu is hosting a series of Cloud Network Technology Days. You can register for the full day of technical sessions and product demonstrations that will be held in-person on September 27, 2022 in Seattle, WA.

The Rise of Autonomous Technology in the Military and What it Means

August 30, 2022

The integration of 5G technology in the military, which we discussed in a recent post, will influence every aspect of warfare. In particular, it will have a major impact on the implementation of an autonomous force. While creating scenarios straight out of a science fiction movie is a popular narrative, the reality is that autonomous technology will more likely impact intelligence gathering and medical care more than create an army of Terminator robots marching on the front lines.

Given the mission critical nature of these use cases, ensuring their operation in the harshest environments is a necessity – and a challenge. That is why those responsible for the design and utilization of these autonomous solutions must establish the proper test process to ensure operation whenever they are called upon.  

Figure 1: Autonomous technology is changing modern warfare.

Bleeding-edge technology has become a vital weapon in today’s modern warfare faster than previous generations, due in large part to a philosophy of leveraging commercial 5G technology. Helping with this approach is the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), which has a charter to strengthen national security by accelerating the adoption of commercial technology into the Department of Defense (DoD).  

Autonomy Use Cases

Autonomy is one of six focus areas for DIU in its work with the military. Separately, research has shown that autonomous technology can be used to create benefits in all functions, from intelligence to cyber security and all-domain warfighting. Familiar examples of this include:

Troop Deployments – Autonomy will be used on the front lines but not in the way we see it in the movies. Recognizing that the primary benefit of autonomous systems is safety, one use will be to replace manned reconnaissance patrols. Autonomous systems have another strategic advantage: They can act as force multipliers. So, the Army can add to its combat power while simultaneously requiring fewer troops.

One application for autonomous technology on the battlefield is for equipment transport. The Squad Multipurpose Equipment Transport (SMET) is a robotic vehicle that trails a dismounted squad carrying much of the 60-120 pounds of gear troops presently lug around. SMET utilizes follow-me and waypoint navigation, with full obstacle detection and avoidance.

Another important effort is the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) aircraft, the next generation of rotorcraft that will operate at faster speeds, have longer range, and higher payloads. Autonomous flight capabilities will be a big element of FVL. SMET and FVL, as well as other autonomous military vehicles may utilize Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communications to navigate through the terrain and perform their respective mission roles. 

Medical Treatment – Keeping with the emphasis on safety is how autonomous technology will improve first-aid in the field. Currently, mobile medics are deployed to active zones to treat wounded soldiers. Combining 5G and autonomous technologies allows advanced medical expertise to be sent into those life-threatening environments when necessary, with far less risk to medical professionals. Research is being done on medical robots to evaluate their ability to assist deployed troops, as well as to establish low latency connectivity in war zones for telemedicine and telesurgery. 

Figure 2: Intelligence gathering and monitoring is enhanced with autonomous technology.

Intelligence Gathering – Not surprisingly, acquiring and analyzing intelligence will benefit from emerging technologies, including autonomy. It goes beyond the decades-proven advantages of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). One example is autonomous software codes being used to gather intel by monitoring cyberspace.

There are also autonomous systems under development by the U.S. Special Operations Command to further improve its full intelligence process. Autonomous systems are expected to be used for computationally intensive tasks. It will add reliability and confidence by reducing the chance of human error. Analysts are using autonomous systems to more effectively collect and process data overall, as well.

Ensuring Operation in Harsh Environments

Similar to military autonomous use cases leveraging emerging commercial technologies, effective test processes will also borrow from established non-military applications. Assessing and understanding key aspects of such operations – especially in a highly dynamic environment – is critical to the success of autonomous systems and their ability to operate as they were designed. Consequently, test solutions must be highly accurate to meet specific testing requirements in autonomous designs. This is accomplished through:   

• Connectivity of various technologies to ensure system operation
• Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) to create simulations to verify control systems performance
• Data throughput and handovers
• Application of standards and regulatory requirements

Due to the critical nature of these systems, test solutions must have high accuracy and high-end performance. For example, conventional spectrum analyzers have a degraded noise floor above 3 GHz because they use a pre-selector at the 3-GHz basic band, which lowers accuracy. The Anritsu MS269xA signal analyzers have a basic band of 6 GHz that eliminates the degraded noise floor and improves measurement results.

Figure 3: The Signal Analyzer MS2850A has the performance necessary to verify advanced military systems.

The Signal Analyzer MS2850A (figure 1) has amplitude and phase flatness performance over a wide 1 GHz analysis bandwidth that exceeds other signal analyzers. It has a high ADC clipping level over the analysis bandwidth to obtain a wider difference from the DANL. This improved dynamic range performance helps obtain more accurate EVM values when measuring 5G signals.

Further aiding in 5G analysis is the Radio Communication Test Station MT8000A test platform that supports Frequency Range 1 (FR1) and Frequency Range 2 (FR2). It can be integrated with SmartStudio software so various functional tests can be performed via GUI without requiring difficult scenario development, so the MT8000A can be easily enhanced to address future military system designs.

5G will play an important role in a new generation of military and defense systems. Anritsu recognizes the military has many specific requirements related to 5G rollout. As part of its commitment to the Armed Forces, Anritsu is a member of the National Spectrum Consortium (NSC), where it collaborates on the research, development, and implementation of 5G-based technologies. As an NSC member, Anritsu works with fellow member companies and senior government officials to help shape 5G and electromagnetic spectrum management, which promotes the development of test solutions to satisfy emerging military designs.

To learn more about the technology, you can watch this 5G Technology & Concepts webinar.

Importance of Conducting FTTA Tests on C-band Base Stations

August 25, 2022

Base stations evolve as each wireless generation is rolled out. It’s no different with the deployment of 5G, as tower design has changed to ensure networks can perform as necessary to achieve the bandwidth, latency, and speed specifications associated with 5G use cases. One key element is the transition from coax to fiber optic connections, which adds complexity for technicians who have traditionally focused on RF-only signals and associated tests.

Fiber has replaced coax for fronthaul and backhaul 5G connections for a number of reasons:

• Increased speed
• Lower attenuation
• Immunity to electromagnetic interference
• Small size

One new testing consideration for field technicians to verify mobile fronthaul and backhaul for C-band base stations is Fiber to the Antenna (FTTA). Implementing a sound test process and utilizing the necessary test solutions are integral for C-band networks to achieve specified key performance indicators (KPIs).  

FTTA is a wireless site architecture developed to satisfy 5G requirements more effectively than traditional coax. In a FTTA, fiber optic lines connect a baseband unit (BBU) located at the bottom of the tower to a remote radio head (RRH) that sits at the top of the tower near the antennas. Digital signals that have traveled through the optical cable are converted to analog by the RRH for transmission over the network.

"The integration of fiber into C-band base stations has changed the test toolbox for field technicians and engineers."

Fiber Test Tools for C-band Base Stations

The integration of fiber into C-band base stations has changed the test toolbox for field technicians and engineers. Here is a brief summary of the equipment to conduct fiber optic testing and their respective roles:

• Inspection equipment (microscopes) – A safe and effective method to inspect the cleanliness and condition of optical connections.
• Visual fault locator – An instrument that sends a red light similar to a laser pointer down the fiber. If there is loss in the fiber, a red glow will be produced.
• Power meter and light source – A tandem solution that simulates the transmission (Tx) and receive (Rx) of an optical signal to provide a direct loss measurement. It is also known as a loss test set.
• Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) – The workhorse instrument because it provides a detailed graph of all fiber characteristics, including loss, length, optical return loss, reflectometry, and bending/stress.

Importance of Clean Fiber

If you ask field technicians who conduct optical tests at a base station, 80% of them will tell you they have experienced a performance issue because of dirty connectors. This statistic puts a spotlight on the importance of verifying the fiber end face to make sure it’s clean before inserting it into the BBU.

To ensure dirt-free end faces, the connector ferrules should be inspected for scratches, chips and contamination using a dedicated fiber-optic microscope. All these issues can reduce the quality of signal transmission and create easy-to-prevent errors. By taking this simple and necessary first step, costly added installation and maintenance (I&M) work can be eliminated. Given the price tag of a tower crew, this can translate to tens of thousands of dollars, not to mention potential customer churn.  

Figure 1: VIP display of a clean fiber end face that complies to IEC 61300-3-35.

One example of an advanced microscope is the Video Inspection Probe (VIP) application from Anritsu. A connector inspection microscope kit, the VIP captures images digitally and displays them on an instrument display, such as the Network Master™ Pro MT1000A All-in One field tester. When an external optical fiberscope is connected, scratches and dirt on the optical connector end face can be confirmed visually. Figure 1 displays a clean end face. The connector image and detailed PASS/FAIL status is displayed as defined by IEC 61300-3-35.

Technicians can conduct the test in four easy steps:

1. Take a microscope, such as the VIP probe, and insert it directly into the fiber end face
2. The VIP probe will conduct automated pass/fail measurement once connection is made
3. If the light is green, insert fiber end face into SFP interface of BBU
4. A red light indicates a dirty end face that technician must clean following procedures and equipment according to manufacturer’s guidelines

Standardizing the Testing Process

In an attempt to create uniformity throughout the industry, all FTTA tests are conducted based on IEC 61300-3-35 developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission. This ensures that there is consistency from base station to base station and from technician to technician.

A standard method to quantitively measure the end face of a fiber optic connector or transceiver using a designated interface is detailed in IEC 61300-3-35:2015. Using an independent third-party standard establishes a criteria for all tests. It creates consistency while also making it straightforward for the instrument to conduct automated pass/fail measurements with only a few keystrokes. The result is a simple process that ensures technicians of any optical experience level can perform the measurements.

Other Testing Requirements

Ensuring the fiber end face is clean cures a lot of poor performance ills – but not all of them. A visual fault locator is key during installation, as well. Often times, technicians will wrap fiber lines together using zip ties. There are instances in which the fiber cables are tied too tightly. Technicians can use the visual fault locator to determine if  the fiber has been bent or crimped during the installation step.  

Figure 2: OTDRs with dedicated software provide complete summaries of cable tests.

Ensuring fiber-to-the-antenna performance in maintenance environments is where the OTDR shines. The reason is simple – it is a single instrument that can answer all the fiber testing questions. An OTDR sends a pulsed light into the fiber and the backscatter is plotted to show loss vs. distance. A complete summary or graph of all fiber characteristics is shown to easily determine pass/fail (figure 2). Every loss will be identified, as well as its cause – connector, splice, break, bend, or anything else. Not only that, the OTDR will reveal where the loss occurs and how much loss is experienced at each event.

The importance of fiber testing, as well as RF measurements and other testing considerations are further explained in the Anritsu 5G C-band virtual showcase. Visit it today.

Demands of 5G UE Repair Market Met with Custom Test Solution

July 28, 2022

5G mobile device sales surpassed their 4G counterparts earlier this year, based on analysis from Counterpoint Research. The growth is seen around the globe but it is particularly apparent in North America, where 5G devices (Figure 1) accounted for about 73% of purchases.¹ Releasing millions of devices into the market takes a coordinated effort between mobile operators, device manufacturers, and 5G UE repair companies (a.k.a logistics).

This synchronization is essential given the investment in 5G by mobile operators, as well as consumers purchasing 5G devices. Without it, UE will not operate according to specification (and customer expectation). Third-party logistics firms are in one sense the last line of defense, as they verify that the devices are ready for market and in full compliance before shipping them out. One main company in the space, Cynergy, relies on a custom solution developed by Anritsu to ensure the operation of each UE.

Figure 1: 5G mobile device sales now exceed 4G UE.

Cynergy specializes in warranty services, manufacturing, and re-manufacturing of 5G, LTE, GSM, and CDMA2000 mobile phones from a broad spectrum of manufacturers and their product retailers. The company’s Dallas-Fort Worth facility needed an easy-to-operate and dependable RF test system to efficiently verify 5G mobile devices. The solution needed to solve four challenges:

• Speed – Cynergy is contracted to conduct carrier performance tests on a high volume of mobile devices in tight time frames. Because of that, the ability to conduct tests quickly and efficiently was a must for any solution they selected.
• Simplicity – Due to the complexity of the devices under test (DUTs), the solution had to be “intelligent” to accurately and efficiently verify device performance. It must measure how the UE works in 5G Non-standalone (NSA) Frequency Range 1 (FR1) and Frequency Range 2 (FR2) environments, as well as existing LTE.
• Easy Upgrade Path – Given evolving 5G standards, the test solution had to be built on a flexible test platform, so the facility can efficiently expand to meet changing requirements.
• Economical – Like all test environments, maintaining a low cost-of-test was a necessity.

Creating a Custom Test Solution

The criteria set by Cynergy is not unlike those set by many UE Repair companies. Throughput and cost are particularly important in this market segment. Despite the reality that the requirements are not uncommon, it is no easy task to meet them.

One main advantage in creating an effective solution was the experience of the Anritsu team. The engineers in the Custom Solutions group have extensive 4G/5G device verification knowledge from years of working in the wireless market. That acumen was vital in developing a solution to satisfy all the requirements.

A critical component of the system is Anritsu’s M4 custom automation tool, specially designed software that supports 5G and is backwards compatible to 4G/3G/2G. The necessary test plans can be quickly and easily developed through M4, which helps to simplify testing and improve throughput. With the software, test parameters can be met economically. An editor feature operates seamlessly with the M4 graphical user interface (GUI), so test sequences can be easily modified as requirements change.

A Complete Solution  

Leveraging expertise in LTE and 5G can also be seen in the Anritsu test instruments that are part of the 5G UE repair solution (Figure 2). The Radio Communication Analyzer MT8821C is used for LTE parametric testing and serves as the 5G NSA anchor, while the Radio Communication Test Station MT8000A supports 5G NSA parametric testing.

Figure 2: 5G UE repair test solution.

The experience of the Anritsu Custom Solutions team also proved advantageous in sourcing the additional system components. For example, a shield box is integrated into the solution because the team understands the advantages it brings in this application compared to an Over-the-Air (OTA) or Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) chamber. Shield box benefits include:

• Economics – A shield box is more cost efficient than a chamber.
• Footprint – Less space is taken by a shield box compared to an OTA or CATR chamber.
• Ease-of-Use – A shield box is inherently less complex to operate than a chamber with a positioner.

The Anritsu team also integrated a switch assembly into the solution to support the FR2 horn antennas and FR1 antenna. Other hardware elements that round out the solution are a 6000 MHz combiner that integrates an LTE/LTE anchor and FR1, an Ethernet switch and cables, coax interconnects, and dedicated PC.

A complete solution goes beyond the hardware and software, particularly in the 5G UE repair market. Recognizing this, Anritsu provides onsite support for test script development, system deployment, training, and troubleshooting.

Charles B., Engineering Manager, Cynergy, stated the solution and Anritsu team more than met expectations. “The Anritsu system provides a high level of productivity, and the Anritsu application incorporates a simple and well-organized user interface. When technical support is needed, Anritsu is always immediately available,” he said.

Results

Supporting those comments are the results being realized by Cynergy, including:

• Faster Throughput – The Anritsu solution cuts test time by as much as 50%.
• Cost Containment – Automation and user interface ease configuration and customization, reducing the need for technical support.
• Accurate Results – Consulting services, on-site support help create greater result confidence and repeatability.
• Flexibility – Test scripts allow for easy expansion of capabilities to meet needs; supports legacy technologies for 4G/3G device verification.

A 5G UE repair case history is available from Anritsu to learn more. You can also download a 5G UE Repair white paper for more information on developing an efficient test system.

Resource:

¹Fierce Wireless; 5G smartphone sales outpace 4G for the first time

5G Initiatives by Government Agencies Enter New Stage

July 5, 2022

Events of the past year have generated industry-wide momentum in the development and eventual deployment of 5G throughout federal agencies and organizations. Led by government initiatives and coalitions, the proposed Department of Defense (DoD) budget indicates a growing focus on rapid fielding of 5G solutions in all areas of strategic development. This includes space, airborne- and ground-based networks, cyber security, maritime domain awareness, and global logistics management, among others.

In early 2022, the Pentagon announced the establishment of a 5G and FutureG Cross-Functional Team. This initiative will accelerate the adoption of transformative 5G and future-generation wireless networking technologies, so U.S. forces can interact and operate effectively anywhere, including in contested environments.

Additionally, the DoD - in collaboration with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) - launched the 5G Challenge to accelerate the “development and adoption of open interfaces, interoperable components, and multi-vendor solutions toward the development of an open 5G ecosystem.” The goal of the challenge is to create a large vendor community to help the DoD build a true 5G “plug-and-play” environment, replacing the current costly and less secure ecosystem featuring closed-based software and hardware.

The DoD submitted its FY2023 budget at $250 million for 5G projects. The DoD is pouring heavy investments into 5G to develop data-centric networks and weapons systems that communicate with each other.

5G Helps Meet Modern Warfare Needs

Such investments will help the military better scale its warfare tactics and strategies. For example, the DoD’s Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2), which is being developed to connect sensors from all of the military services into a single network, requires fast, robust and dependable networks to connect multiple weapons and inform decision makers in a real-time manner.

Figure 1: JADC2 will connect the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines through one network. Note: image courtesy of DoD.

5G military applications will utilize ever-more sophisticated RF communications consisting of more complex modulations. As a result, ensuring trusted operation of 5G defense systems will require precise test and measurement solutions that deliver highly accurate and traceable measurements. Specifically, all communication networks rely on key metrics - frequencies, timing, signal levels, et al – to determine the validity and quality of signal transmission and reception. Without the ability to observe these parameters precisely, military communication systems would be compromised and rendered unreliable and ineffectual.

Test equipment from different manufacturers needs to interface smoothly with systems that are comprised of sub-systems from multiple vendors. Unless each sub-system is confident in the performance of its components with which it connects, they will fail to interoperate. Standards, traceability, and measurement accuracy are the cornerstone of this success.

One device designed to accurately determine interoperability quality and validity is the Real Time Spectrum Analyzer (RTSA), most often utilized in field portable configurations. An RTSA facilitates the capture and analysis of very short duration signals that are often the cause of interference or illicit communications. For example, the Field Master Pro™ MS2090A is a very common solution designed for military system test.

Portability and shorter test cycles are driving simplification of testing methods of procedure (MOP). Results need to be uploaded to cloud services in real time so that they can be analyzed by all stakeholders. The MS2090A provides this capability.

High-speed Access for All Americans

Also, of national priority is the on-going initiative by Congress and the White House to provide Americans with 5G network benefits as quickly as possible. NTIA is actively involved in domestic 5G networks, as well, as it developed the National Strategy to Secure 5G. The comprehensive plan details how the U.S. will lead global development, deployment, and management of secure and reliable 5G infrastructure.

The first of four lines of effort in the National Strategy to Secure 5G is to facilitate domestic 5G rollout. This portion of the plan outlines the commitment to establish a new research and development initiative to develop advanced communications and networking capabilities to achieve security, resilience, safety, privacy, and coverage of 5G and beyond at an affordable cost.

As part of the domestic rollout, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has a goal to modernize regulations and update its infrastructure policy to better support 5G implementation. All initiatives are designed to overcome the inherent infrastructure challenges associated with 5G adoption.

Federal agencies are looking to upgrade nationwide network infrastructures to prepare for 5G technology to meet the connectivity demands of a mobile and ever-growing remote workforce. Another factor is growing mission-critical needs to transfer massive data loads with low latency to support a range of applications – from high-definition video to virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) associated with emerging IoT use cases.

A Changing Network Ecosystem

For all these reasons, network infrastructure (figure 2) must evolve to meet the needs of 5G. Achieving low latency, high bandwidth and high speed associated with 5G requires integration of 400G Ethernet, moving the elements to the network edge, and implementing new technologies, including O-RAN, among other considerations.  

Figure 2: Example of a 5G network.

To achieve successful deployment in urban and rural settings alike, a new generation of field test solutions must support 5G networks. In addition to conventional throughput and BER measurements, 5G network evaluations will focus on eCPRI/RoE, high-accuracy latency, and time synchronization measurements. The Network Master™ Pro MT1000A supports every measurement function required for 5G mobile network deployment, including eCPRI/RoE, High-Resolution Latency (Delay), and PTP-based Time Synchronization.

Adding Always-on Forward Error Correction (FEC) is a key technology to achieve 400G Ethernet speeds, supporting 5G traffic growth. With built-in FEC analysis functions, the Network Master Pro™ MT1040A is the ideal tester for evaluating the communications quality of optical modules, such as QSFP-DD, and the performance of 400G devices. A 100G Transport Module can be added to the base MT1040A instrument to enable eCPRI/RoE and precision latency and time synchronization measurements, as well.

Fiber cables are critical to transmit high bandwidth data from 5G base stations to data centers at a high speed. To efficiently evaluate optical cables during installation and maintenance (I&M), the ACCESS Master MT9085 compact optical fiber tester has a built-in OTDR and optical power and loss measurement functions.

Anritsu provides a library of government resources, including technologies and test solutions. Visit us today to access materials you’ll need to develop your effective 5G strategy and approach. 

High-Frequency Testing Technologies to be Highlighted by Anritsu at IMS 2022

June 16, 2022

If it’s June, it must be time for IMS2022. RF and microwave engineers and other professionals will converge in Denver beginning June 19 to get a first-hand look at emerging technologies shaping high-frequency applications in commercial, government, and military/aerospace. As has been the case for decades, Anritsu will showcase test solutions that address the design, manufacture, and installation and maintenance (I&M) of wireless systems in its booth (#9038) during the show.

Thought Leadership Sessions.

One way Anritsu is showcasing its leadership in high-frequency testing is through a series of technical sessions and presentations throughout IMS and ARFTG. Jon Martens, Fellow at Anritsu, will conduct a workshop and participate in a panel discussion. Dr. Alexander Chenakin, Suresh Ojha, Sadashiv Phadnis, and Navneet Kataria will also run two Microapps presentations in the IMS Theater during the show.

Instrumentation Aspects of mmWave On-Wafer Measurements – Dr. Martens will be presenting in this workshop on Monday, June 20, from 12:30-1:15 in room 605/607. Key elements of a successful millimeter wave (mmWave) on-wafer measurement campaign will be explained. The positive interaction of many aspects, including probes, calibration devices and methods, and device-under-test (DUT) within the environment and instrumentation will be covered.

Particular focus will be on the network analyzer hardware in a mmWave setup and how it interacts with probing to gain a deeper understanding of the important mechanisms to optimize sensitivities and uncertainties. Specifically, mmWave vector network analyzer (VNA) architectures will be presented. Power control, receiver linearity and noise behavior, and port impedance and coupling characteristics will also be covered.

VNA Application Solutions for S-parameter Measurements in Large Test Setups​ – On Wednesday, June 22, from 11:30-11:45, Navneet Kataria will lead this presentation in the MicroApps Theater (booth #9110)​. It will discuss how to conduct accurate microwave and mmWave tests on antenna ranges and other large test setups that require full s-parameter measurements over long distances (order of 25 meters or longer). Distances of this magnitude present unique challenges for high-frequency VNA measurements, requiring special application techniques to maintain coherence and overcome other measurement issues. This seminar compares and contrasts different VNA techniques and instrumentation used in these applications.

Microwave Signal Generators with Improved Phase Noise and Frequency Stability​ – Dr. Chenakin, Ojha, and Phadnis will co-present on Wednesday, June 22, from 12:15–12:30, in booth #9110. They will highlight how Anritsu’s new Rubidium™ signal generators (figure 1) address today’s market demands for high-performance microwave broadband signal sources through 70 GHz. With innovation and quality as driving principles, Rubidium signal generators challenge traditional performance expectations with atomic-grade frequency stability and low phase noise of –140 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset from the 10 GHz carrier.

Figure 1: The Rubidium signal generator is the focus of a MicroApps session and test station in Anritsu’s booth at IMS 2022.

High-frequency Test Solutions

Rubidium will be featured in the Anritsu booth #9038 throughout IMS 2022. The high-performance signal generator family delivers outstanding performance across a broad frequency range of 9 kHz to 43.5 GHz. Coupled with built-in, easy-to-use, at-location frequency and power calibration capability, Rubidium offers exceptional overall utility and long-term value in a broad range of commercial and military/aerospace measurement applications. 

Anritsu will place a spotlight on its overall VNA market leadership, showcasing the state of art ME7838G 70 kHz to 220 GHz single sweep, 4-port VectorStar^® system that is unique for making differential measurements, with differential probes. Anritsu will also be showcasing the world’s first single sweep 70 kHz to 220 GHz VNA-based spectrum analyzer at the show.

The VectorStar ME7838 broadband series system provides high performance in a compact mmWave module utilizing the Anritsu Nonlinear Transmission Line (NLTL) technology, with system coverage from 70 kHz to 110, 125, 145, and 220 GHz. The ME7838 series is the only broadband system with positive raw directivity in multiple bands, for improved calibration and measurement stability with significantly longer time between calibrations for accurate measurements and improved productivity.

Additionally, the ShockLine™ ME7868A 2-port distributed modular VNA enabled with PhaseLync technology will be in the booth. It is the world’s first distributed, fully reversing 2-port VNA solution that provides guaranteed performance from 1 MHz to 43.5 GHz. This solution simplifies long-distance  S-parameter measurements (2m/5m/25m up to 200m), such as OTA measurements in large chambers, large vehicle cable/antenna testing, and outdoor antenna test range. It also streamlines VNA test system integration by removing the need to utilize conventional benchtop VNAs with long cable runs, eliminating insertion loss, improve measurement stability, and lower setup costs.

Anritsu’s interference hunting solutions, including the Field Master Pro™ MS2090A and MS27201A Remote Spectrum Monitor, will be showcased for attendees who need highly accurate field solutions. In the booth, demonstrations will be conducted on how to use a handheld analyzer to measure RF and microwave devices.

Microelectronics Technology Center 

The capabilities of the Anritsu Microelectronics Technology Center in Morgan Hill, CA will be highlighted during IMS2022. Featuring an 8,000-square-foot class 100/10,000 clean room, a 25,000-square-foot RF/microwave assembly manufacturing facility, and a state-of-the-art machining center, the facility provides thin film device fabrication, microelectronic assembly, packaging, and machining.

Visit booth #9038 if you will be in Denver from June 19-24. If not, visit our resource center for educational materials on high-frequency test solutions, including a VNA resource page.

Evolving Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Technologies Require Sound Testing Approach

May 26, 2022

The convergence of wireless technologies is integral to the success of 5G and IoT. For engineers, ensuring designs integrating various technologies poses multiple challenges, the least of which is staying current on evolving standards and testing requirements. Bluetooth^® and Wi-Fi^® are prime examples, as they continually evolve to meet market needs. Implementing a sound testing process requires the proper test solutions that address the time and cost constraints associated with today’s product timelines.

Comparing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi radios share the 2.4 GHz ISM band but leverage it differently. Wi-Fi uses 20 MHz wide channels. Standard Bluetooth splits the spectrum into 79 channels, each 1 MHz wide. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) uses 40 channels with a 2 MHz width.

Unlike Wi-Fi, BLE and standard Bluetooth use Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) to move between channels to transmit short data bursts. Another main variance is that BLE broadcasts advertisement packets on three dedicated channels; Wi-Fi access points transmit their identifier on the same channel as data. More on each technology can be found at this virtual technology theater.

One other thing they share is market growth, aided in part by 5G deployment and IoT expansion. By the end of this year, it is estimated that more than 5 billion Bluetooth devices will be shipped, with that number reaching 7 billion annually by 2026, according to Aberdeen Group. Mobile devices account for 47% of current shipments.

Wi-Fi has similar market penetration and growth expectations. In 2022, nearly 18 billion Wi-Fi devices will be in use, and more than 4.4 billion devices will ship this year, according to IDC Research. The current generation – Wi-Fi 6 – reached 50% market adoption quicker than previous Wi-Fi generations. It is estimated that there will be 350+ million Wi-Fi 6E (Evolution) devices in the market this year.

Image courtesy of Bluetooth SIG.

Emergence of Bluetooth Low Energy

BLE was developed to address a growing number of devices utilizing low power proliferating emerging markets, such as IoT. Examples include fitness trackers, smart locks, and utility meters.

BLE achieves low energy in three main ways:

• Very short data packets using large modulation channels
• Faster connections
• Lower peak times

In addition to requiring a fraction of the power, BLE has much wider range than standard Bluetooth, as well as improved latency. Standard Bluetooth currently does have a slight edge in data rate.

BLE is used in one advancement gaining traction in IoT designs – Bluetooth mesh. Enabling creation of large-scale device networks, it is ideally suited for control, monitoring, and automation systems where hundreds – and even thousands – of devices communicate with each another. Bluetooth mesh combines the performance, reliability, and security necessary to meet the stringent demands of commercial and industrial environments.

Another area where Bluetooth is evolving to address market needs is high-accuracy indoor location services. Bluetooth delivers unprecedented flexibility for a device to determine the presence, distance, and direction of another device. Building managers and owners have an enhanced method to scale indoor positioning solutions to match the ever-evolving needs of their facilities using Bluetooth.

Anritsu’s Bluetooth Leadership

Anritsu has been at the forefront of the technology, evident by its membership in the Bluetooth Special Interests Group (SIG) since 2000. In those two decades, Anritsu has contributed to defining architecture, core, HCI, radio, test, and security standards. It’s one reason why the MT8852B Bluetooth Test Set (figure 1) and Universal Wireless Test Set MT8870A have been used to develop, certify, and/or manufacture more than 70% of the Bluetooth devices around the globe.  

Figure 1: Anritsu MT8852B is a dedicated Bluetooth test solution.

Compact and economical, the MT8852B is dedicated exclusively to Bluetooth. It supports Basic Rate (BR), Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) and BLE measurements required by the Bluetooth RF test specification. In addition to meeting the tight cost-of-test parameters, the MT8852B satisfies throughput demands, as it can test a device in less than 10 seconds.

The MT8870A is a mainframe that supports up to four modules. Designed for manufacturing environments, it also supports Wi-Fi and 2G/3G/4G/5G. Installing four test modules in the MT8870A main unit supports simultaneous parallel measurement of up to four connected devices under test (DUTs). Since the number of antennas in wireless communications devices is increasing, each test unit supports connection of up to 12 antennas to greatly simplify the test setup.

Wi-Fi 6/6E for 5G

Wi-Fi is now on its sixth generation – IEEE 802.11ax. Wi-Fi 6 supports multiple simultaneous WLAN connections to one access point (AP). It creates better communications efficiency with limited frequency resources, opening up bandwidth to address increased overall video use, as well as substantially more voice traffic due to carrier offload.

Efficient handling of high-speed data traffic, as well as other synergies, positions Wi-Fi 6 as a strong complement to 5G. Details on how Wi-Fi 6 complements 5G deployment is explained in an earlier blog.

Figure 2: A visual depiction of the Wi-Fi 6 enhancements.

Never known to rest on its laurels, the Wi-Fi Alliance (WFA) announced expansion into the 7.125 GHz spectrum with Wi-Fi 6E shortly after the launch of Wi-Fi 6. It is also working on Wi-Fi 7 (IEEE 802.11be) and expects to release the standard in early 2024.

New test items and complex measurement methods are in the current IEEE 802.11ax standard. Another test consideration centers around the antenna. It is a key evaluation item for supporting the 6 GHz band, because antenna performance requirements change with the frequency.

Anritsu developed a portfolio of solutions to verify antennas, chipsets, and devices supporting Wi-Fi 6. One example is the Wireless Connectivity Test Set MT8862A. The test set can act as a Wi-Fi AP or Station (STA) for testing key parameters, such as security (WEP, WPA/WPA2-Personal). It also has an easy setup for receiver sensitivity testing, for simple packet error rate (PER) measurements.

To help engineers gain an understanding of the latest Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enhancements, Anritsu has launched a virtual, interactive Test Talk Theater. This online, interactive event provides articles, application notes, how-to videos, and on-demand webinars on current and emerging technologies.

Advantages of OEM Calibration Testing Compared to Third-party Labs

May 17, 2022

Calibrating test equipment is important to maintain measurement accuracy. Unfortunately, often times it can slip past the recommend 12 months, which in turn, allows measurement accuracy drift to occur. Such a scenario can become more problematic with high-end instruments used in R&D and manufacturing, as well as those utilizing the latest technology and supporting higher frequencies.

Due to the importance of calibration as it relates to measurement accuracy, using the instrument Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to conduct the annual service reaps benefits that can save time and money. It also gives engineering teams greater confidence in their product’s performance.

In a previous post, we outlined the types of calibration. Today, we explain the benefits of OEM calibrations compared to having them performed by a third-party lab. We should note there are some instances when a third-party may be necessary and more efficient. Examples include a facility that uses equipment from multiple vendors and/or the instruments (i.e. power supplies, signal generators, handheld analyzers) do not require stringent calibration processes. For all other scenarios, however, there are distinct advantages to using an OEM.

Understanding Hidden Costs

Realizing the capabilities and types of testing that can be conducted by the facility is key to making the best decision when it comes to calibrations. Third-party labs conduct basic Go/No Go testing. Such a procedure begs the question, “What happens when my instrument fails?”

If the instrument fails, the third-party typically ships it to the manufacturer. In this scenario, there are added costs compared to working with the OEM directly, as it will be necessary to mark up the manufacturer’s price to account for their role. The time without the instrument is also extended, due to the fact that the third-party is now acting as the intermediary. They ship the instrument to the manufacturer, and then receive it back before returning it to the customer.

Unnecessary expense can also be incurred if the test capabilities of the facility lead to results that are not truly understood. Misdiagnosis caused by looser pass/fail standards leads to unnecessary repairs. This is particularly true for higher-end instruments, such as those used in R&D.

Understanding the importance of protecting customers’ investments and regular maintenance, some OEMs, such as Anritsu, offer service agreements with price-locks so exact product lifecycle maintenance costs can be better managed. Additionally, repair or full-service agreements are available that can create a discount on calibrations, in some instances.

Why Calibrations by the OEM are Important

Selecting the instrument OEM for calibration may have a higher initial price tag but ultimately is worth the investment. The OEM conducts more comprehensive testing by instrument experts to create greater confidence in equipment performance.

Anritsu offers accredited calibrations that meet the requirements of the ISO/IEC 17025 and ANSI/NCSL Z540-1/Z540-3 that are “General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.” This certification covers the specific calibration listed on the agreed scope of accreditation.

Expert Staff – OEMs will also have long-tenured staff who are highly experienced and knowledgeable about the equipment they are working on. For example, Anritsu’s repair and calibration staff has a mean average of nearly 10 years. Plus, they are factory trained with expertise in Anritsu products, following factory approved procedures. Access to engineering teams who developed instruments can also create more effective calibration processes.

Prevent Future Problems – As a result of the more thorough inspection, those experts can see potential problems that may occur over the short-term, even though the instrument is performing within spec during the calibration process. So, necessary corrections can be made before major measurement inaccuracies begin to occur. Given calibrations are done annually, this can reap major benefits.

Emerging Designs Need Calibrated Instruments

Using an OEM for calibrations is particularly important for R&D and manufacturing of emerging technologies. Engineers in these fields need measurement stability for confidence in product designs.

"OEMs provide a premium level of calibration to satisfy complex design measurements."

For example, mobile devices have been operating in the cellular bands for decades, so there is an abundance of historical data to use as a reference to determine measurement accuracy. There is no historical data to reference when measuring 5G device performance. Therefore, it is vital to make sure the instrument is perfectly calibrated to make sure there is no measurement drift.

OEMs provide a premium level of calibration to satisfy complex design measurements. It provides verification that the instrument meets or exceeds all of its published specifications, necessary adjustment procedures are executed as outlined in the operation and maintenance manual for that model, and test data taken and recorded before and after any necessary adjustments.

Anritsu can conduct calibration and equipment repair either on-site or at a service center. To learn more or schedule calibration, visit the dedicated Repair and Calibration page.

IoT Use Cases Drive Device Verification Processes

May 10, 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) is enhancing our homes, workplaces, how our goods are manufactured and shipped as well as the cars we drive and the venues we visit. As IoT technologies are part of so many use cases, devices must be designed with a variety of capabilities and support multiple technologies that add complexity. Engineers must implement verification processes that conduct reliable, accurate, and repeatable measurements to ensure compatibility and operation.

While testing is essential, controlling costs is equally important. Test systems used in R&D and manufacturing can be a significant investment. They are not as costly as releasing a device and later having to recall it because it’s not operating according to expectations.

An intuitive software-based test environment can help maintain budgets and give engineers confidence in their designs. The result is IoT devices with a strong return on investment (ROI) and lower lifetime expenses.

IoT is Everywhere

Diverse applications lead to design and operational variances. Here are some examples of IoT use cases, followed by their unique design considerations.

Drones – Drones are a low-cost and safer method to address issues in the field. For instance, they can efficiently add and maintain mobile IoT endpoints to extend a network. This has become essential as many enterprise processes take place at the network edge. Drones can also be used as remote inspection devices to eliminate potentially dangerous in-person inspections.

Sensors – One might say that sensors are the lifeblood of IoT. Cameras, radar, light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and a host of other onboard sensors are used by autonomous vehicles to collect data on road conditions, determine necessary driving actions, and prevent potential accidents. Sensors are used in augmented reality (AR) to layer information onto the real world, and in Virtual Reality (VR) to capture motions – all to make users feel immersed in their respective experience.

They are also used in Machine-to-Machine (M2M)-connected devices to map machine workloads, inputs, and outputs more accurately. Sensors monitor equipment to predict maintenance to extend product life, as well.

Healthcare – Through low latency, high-bandwidth 5G IoT connectivity, telesurgery is becoming more common in patient treatment. Surgeons remotely direct a robot in real-time to perform delicate surgeries in a hospital. 5G also helps people have easier access to IoT-connected wearable devices to facilitate data sharing with physicians, no matter where anyone is located.

Transportation – IoT traffic management systems are aided by 5G to be more proactive. For instance, shortly before the morning and evening rush hours, traffic lights can be scheduled to alleviate congestion.  5G-powered IoT ecosystem can reduce driving accidents and fatalities, helping to create a safer environment due to its low latency.  5G transmits data with a lag time of only 1 millisecond, which is 50 times faster than 4G LTE. The result is safer roads and more reliable deliveries.

Logistics – Almost 90% of logistics and shipping providers believe low supply chain visibility is one of the biggest challenges they face, according to research by Moor Insights & Strategy. Portable Internet-connected trackers conduct real-time monitoring to bring into focus the location and condition of goods throughout the entire supply chain.

Designing for IoT Use Cases

The IoT use cases discussed illuminate how IoT devices must satisfy specific requirements. To satisfy use cases engineers must consider specific design attributes – such as a battery, interference, and compatibility.

Battery – Power is a key element for IoT devices and varies by use case. Drones and other applications requiring operation over extended periods without recharging need devices with long battery life.  Devices that periodically “sleep” and “wake,” such as home utility meters, must have batteries that reliably switch on for short wireless message bursts.  Detailed measurements over time must be performed to accurate confirm batteries performance meets expectation of the IOT device.

Interference – A key design concern in any application, interference is critically important when it comes to IoT devices. M2M and logistics are examples of use cases in which outside variables and conditions can create harmful interference. IoT devices utilize multiple technologies and antennas in very compact form factors. This added layer of complexity means even slightly out-of-band signals can degrade operation.

Compatibility – The integration of multiple technologies and frequent handoffs between private and public networks places an emphasis on compatibility. Many IoT devices support cellular, Wi-Fi, and short-range wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth^® and Zigbee. Ensuring they can seamlessly transfer from one technology to another is unlike any other wireless application.

Optimum IoT Test Environment

Creating an environment built on a modular platform addresses many IoT device verification parameters. An interactive, intuitive software-driven approach that simplifies the testing process and is scalable adds flexibility and reduces test times by providing three key benefits:  

Simulation – Creating “real-world scenarios” in the lab and on the manufacturing floor helps establish proof of operation for IoT devices. All scenarios, including quality of service (QoS), data throughput, and mobility, can be simulated with a solution such as Anritsu SmartStudio.

Simplicity – An intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) can expedite creation and execution of test cases that make verification easy. Further simplifying testing is a GUI with drop-down menus, so comprehensive analysis is done in a few clicks. Universal indicators, such as green/red lights, allow engineers to have confidence in their designs without having in-depth knowledge of ever evolving 3GPP protocols and regulatory standards.

Automation – Speed and cost efficiencies are achieved through automated testing, so products are released on schedule and within budget. An automated environment that allows for simple test case creation gives engineers the ability to establish and recall thousands of connections and scenarios. The result is faster and more thorough evaluation of application behavior under any network condition.

As we have shown here, IoT devices present verification challenges for engineers. To learn more, watch this on-demand 5G IoT Device Testing webinar. It provides helpful tips to verify devices in the lab and on the manufacturing floor.