Mobile Test Summit 2023

Non-terrestrial networks (NTN)

5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN)

5G NB-IoT and direct-to-device satellite connectivity

Non-terrestrial networks (NTN) are wireless communication systems that operate above the Earth's surface, utilizing satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO) and geostationary orbit (GEO), as well as high-altitude platforms (HAPS) and drones. These components play a crucial role in providing seamless coverage, extending connectivity to remote areas without access to traditional terrestrial networks. Currently, devices are categorized based on their connection to either 3GPP terrestrial networks or satellites, requiring separate devices for satellite connectivity. NTN aims to integrate all mobile devices into a unified 3GPP ecosystem, connecting them seamlessly to both terrestrial and satellite networks.

Key topics for NTN:

  • Direct-to-device satellite connectivity
  • NTN operator perspective
  • 5G NB-IoT coverage extension for delay and disruption-tolerant networking
  • Unified and resilient 3D networks
  • NTN device testing solutions

Want to discuss your specific test cases with our experts? Contact us now.

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On-demand videos

Never lose coverage: Direct-to-device satellite connectivity
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Never lose coverage: Direct-to-device satellite connectivity

Skylo is a software defined satellite network service provider. The company has the first to market 3GPP Rel.17 NTN compliant network with Europe- and U.S.-wide coverage live. Users can seamlessly access satellite networks from their existing devices, much like international roaming, with smooth transitions between cellular and satellite connections.

Skylo and Rohde & Schwarz are collaborating in creating test cases and validation methods to optimize NTN network performance, reshaping industries worldwide by enabling reliable, ubiquitous satellite connectivity.

NTN mobile operator perspective
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NTN mobile operator perspective

Telecommunications from space or flying stations are becoming more and more visible to the public. As a terrestrial network provider, it is therefore essential to identify possible use cases that will be of greatest benefit to end customers. An essential key to this is determining powerful frequency spectra and using them with technologies from the 3GPP or IMT standards.

It is important to integrate existing applications with NTN use and to define and provide new frequencies for 5G, which can also be used in 6G in the future. A significant benefit then arises from horizontal integration across network operator boundaries.

5G NB-IoT NTN coverage extension for delay and disruption-tolerant networking
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5G NB-IoT NTN coverage extension for delay and disruption-tolerant networking

IoT applications require an affordable solution to ensure profitability. Massive IoT use cases require global coverage and LEO satellite solutions are well positioned to offer global connectivity.

In this presentation an industrial approach from Sateliot is presented for delay tolerant IoT applications estimated to be 60% of the addressable IoT satellite market. The key elements of the solution are explained including satellite and ground architecture, roaming interface and KPIs for a typical orbital plane with a reference to Store&Forward functionality under the scope of the new Rel.19.

Unified and resilient 3D networks
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Unified and resilient 3D networks

Non-terrestrial Networks (NTN) are already part of the 5G Ecosystem since Rel.17 and will be an integral part of 6G.

This presentation covers the main technological challenges of TN / NTN integration with a special focus on global and resilient connectivity.

NTN device testing solutions
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NTN device testing solutions

As the use of NTN technology gains momentum, it is increasingly important to ensure optimal performance for devices using NTN (NTN devices). These devices have the potential to provide global network coverage via satellite, which means they must be rigorously tested and optimized to ensure reliable wireless communication with both GEO / GSO and LEO satellite constellations.

This presentation covers:

  • The NTN market and use cases
  • Rohde & Schwarz's specific NTN product portfolio and how it supports the entire device ecosystem, from chipset R&D and conformance to carrier acceptance and production
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