01-Nov-2019
5G – a paradigm shift and the role of mobile network testing
5G aims increase data rates and carrier bandwidths, decrease latency values, and to support the ever increasing number of connected devices. Compared to previous generations of mobile networks, 5G represents a momentous shift in the development and implementation processes.
Traditionally, mobile network testing activities take place once commercial networks are up and running. But every new generation and technology starts in the lab, with research and development conducted in early trial networks. The same applies to base stations and smartphones. Yet despite extensive network simulations, it is often unclear how a new technology behaves in real environments. Trials are the only way to provide insight.
The most interesting parameter in these early mobile network trials is coverage. It is of utmost importance to get real-world information about a mobile network’s coverage to understand the new technology and tune algorithms, for example in network planning tools. Today, network test tools from Rohde & Schwarz mobile network testing support ongoing trials and pre-commercial 5G use cases.
Testing considerations include the combination of millimeter wave utilization, multiple input multiple output (MIMO), and beamforming provides the infrastructure of 5G adds testing complexity. The short wavelength of millimeter wave frequencies and the higher losses in circuits necessitate a tight integration, making it impractical to supply connections for testing. This means over the air testing must be applied. Through the use of many more antennas, massive MIMO and beamforming combat the effects of higher attenuation at higher frequencies and to improve capacity. More antennas means more testing accomplish to ensure that all integrated antennas are operating correctly.