Phased array antenna tests for 5G and satellite applications

Your task

When testing phased array antennas used in 5G and satellite links, multiple TX and RX paths must be measured synchronously. A high-end vector network analyzer featuring mulitple sources and individual control of phase and amplitude is the perfect fit. For outstanding measurement accuracy, a controlled antenna test chamber environment with a high-precision 3D positioner is essential. Functions such as segmented sweeps and cascaded triggers must precisely match positioner and trigger signals. Dedicated downconverters are needed to measure frequencies from 60 GHz to 90 GHz and beyond. The downconverters must be located as close as possible to the DUT to minimize cable loss.

Rohde & Schwarz solution

Easy beamforming with a vector network analyzer (VNA) by adjusting amplitude and phase for each TX port

The R&S®ZNA can generate the required signals directly (up to 67 GHz) or with millimeterwave converters for signals from 50 GHz to 1.1 THz. The R&S®ZNA has four internal phase coherent sources that can have frequency, amplitude and phase set independently for unique beamforming capability. The R&S®ZNA is a real 4-port VNA with four independent built-in reflectometers for measuring the reflection coefficient of each antenna.

Summary

The unparalleled sensitivity of the R&S®ZNA vector network analyzer shortens the measurement times by a factor of 10. Measurements that used to take ten hours can be finished in one hour with the R&S®ZNA. It provides up to eight parallel receivers with identical RF characteristics for measuring horizontal and vertical polarization in parallel. The 4-port models of the R&S®ZNA have up to four phase controllable and phase coherent sources. With the optional second internal LO source, a fifth source up to 26.5 GHz is available for mmWave converter support and for use as a general LO source. Arbitrary pulse sequences can be modelled with four pulse generators and four pulse modulators.

Direct IF access at the rear panel enables integration in antenna test systems with external mixers. The broad IF bandwidth of 1 GHz makes it possible to select a wide frequency range for the IF feed from external mixers. The enhanced trigger and synchronization function leads to more accurate measurements because positioner and trigger can exactly be matched using segmented sweep and cascaded trigger functions.