Bluetest and Rohde & Schwarz extend their long-established collaboration and have integrated the Wi-Fi 7 test functionality of the R&S CMX500 one-box signaling tester into the Bluetest Flow control software. Now, developers and manufacturers of next-generation WLAN technology can use the Bluetest reverberation test systems (RTS) to perform MIMO stress testing of IEEE 802.11be stations as well as access points under realistic conditions.
Bluetest specializes in reverberation chambers, such as the RTS65, which are designed for efficient over-the-air performance evaluation of wireless devices. In contrast to anechoic test chambers, reverberation chambers extensively reflect an RF signal inside the chamber, creating a Rayleigh faded multipath RF environment. This environment closely mirrors real-world indoor and city conditions, making it ideal for evaluating the antenna and radio performance of modern multi-antenna (MIMO) and multi-carrier devices as used in WLAN, 4G, and 5G.
The setup is operated using the Bluetest Flow control software, an integrated test environment for complex wireless solutions. By integrating the Wi-Fi 7 test functionality of the R&S CMX500 one-box signaling tester into the Bluetest Flow software, WLAN developers utilizing the R&S CMX500 can now leverage Bluetest’s reverberation chamber technology in the development of their advanced WLAN stations and access points.
Wi-Fi 7 (IEEE 802.11be) is engineered for extremely high data throughput and capable of handling tens of gigabits of data per second with low latency. It caters to the increasing demand for ultra-high-definition video streaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality applications. The key components facilitating higher throughput include an increased channel bandwidth of 320 MHz, up to 16 spatial streams, 4096 QAM modulation, and multi-link operation (MLO).
During the development of WLAN devices, measurements of the antennas as well as RF transmitter and receiver characteristics must be conducted under real-world conditions in signaling mode. With MLO being a key feature in Wi-Fi 7, a test environment that provides multiple RF chains is crucial. The R&S CMX500 one-box tester from Rohde & Schwarz, featuring integrated Wi-Fi 7 test functionality, is a multi-technology multi-channel signaling tester. Its flexibility, support for multiple radio technologies, and embedded IP test capabilities make it a versatile solution for a broad range of Wi-Fi 7-specific tests.
Christoph Pointner, Senior Vice President of Mobile Radio Testers at Rohde & Schwarz, said: “Our collaboration with Bluetest has resulted in a unique synergy between our CMX500 one-box tester and their RTS technology. This long-established partnership has enabled us to push the boundaries of WLAN testing, providing a real-world environment that is integral to the development of cutting-edge wireless solutions.”
Kjell Olovsson, Bluetest CEO, said: “Teaming up with Rohde & Schwarz and integrating their CMX500 one-box tester into our Flow software broadens our WLAN testing capabilities. Now we are able to offer an unprecedented testing environment for the latest Wi-Fi 7 devices, reflecting our commitment to supporting the evolution of wireless communication.”
For more information on the R&S CMX500, visit: https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/cmx500
www.rohde-schwarz.com
Bluetest
Bluetest AB, based in Gothenburg, Sweden, is a pioneer and market leader in the field of wireless equipment and small antenna OTA testing using its innovative Reverberation Test System. Bluetest’s revolutionary technology is used by world-leading mobile phone manufacturers, communications carriers, antenna manufacturers, and manufacturers of other wireless solutions. For more details, visit: https://www.bluetest.se
Rohde & Schwarz
Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its Test & Measurement, Technology Systems and Networks & Cybersecurity Divisions. For 90 years, the global technology group has pushed technical boundaries with developments in cutting-edge technologies. The company’s leading-edge products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory and government customers to attain technological and digital sovereignty. The privately owned, Munich based company can act independently, long-term and sustainably. Rohde & Schwarz generated net revenue of EUR 2.93 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year (July to June). On June 30, 2024, Rohde & Schwarz had around 14,400 employees worldwide.
