21581 - SCTE Broadband August2022 COMPLETE v1

92 Vol. 44 No. 3 - September 2022 Issue products For more information, see www.rohde-schwarz.com/uk/ Included in the new 5G NR Release 17 are features set to improve system performance and enable expansion into new applications. To address testing challenges in these latest demanding 5G standards, Rohde & Schwarz tell Broadband they have introduced a comprehensive set of coordinated software options for its vector signal generators and signal and spectrum analysers. Software options for the R&S SMW200A vector signal generator and R&S FSW signal analysers have been upgraded. Rohde&Schwarz is implementing a full range of 5GNRRelease 17 features in its powerful signal generation and analysis test solutions. Software options for the R&S ® SMW200A vector signal generator and R&S FSW signal analysers have been upgraded to fulfil the exacting requirements of this latest 5G specification. The R&S ® FSVA3000 signal and spectrum analyser and R&S ® SMM100A vector signal generator also handle 5G NR Release 17. 5G New Radio (NR) is the global standard for a unified, more capable 5G wireless air interface. It promises significantly quicker mobile broadband experiences, extending mobile technology to connect and redefine new and emerging industries. Some key features for Release 17 include ultra- reliable low latency communications (URLLC) for industrial IoT, integrated access and backhaul (IAB), and radio access network slicing for NR. In addition, we found that 3GPP extends the frequency support to 71GHz. This extension requires an adaptation of the physical layer, notably the addition of two new subcarrier spacings (480kHz and 960kHz), and the support of wider signal bandwidths of up to 2GHz. Requirements for high-quality signal test are embodied in a new enhanced dynamic frontend module for the R&S ® FSW signal and spectrum analyser. This works when evaluating any high-end communication components or systems, including 5G NR FR2 or IEEE 802.11ay/ad chipsets, amplifiers, user equipment and base stations. We also found that the new 67GHz frequency option for the R&S SMW200A vector signal generator allows up to 72GHz in overrange mode. This ensures support of all planned higher frequency 5G bands, as well as the 60GHz WiGig band, and inter-satellite links. It had a positive impact on modulation quality, flat frequency response and four hardware-based levels of phase noise performance which also apply to the new frequency options. Rohde & Schwarz announces comprehensive test solutions for 5G NR Release 17