Anritsu Co. introduces functionality for its BTS Master™ MT8220T base station analyzer that allows field engineers and technicians to conduct highly accurate and efficient LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation (CA) measurements during network deployment and maintenance. With the new capability, the MT8220T can conduct key LTE-Advanced CA measurements for all active component carriers (CCs) and display them simultaneously on the same screen, allowing users to quickly and accurately verify LTE-Advanced CA field installation.

Many LTE-Advanced CA measurements have been automated for simplicity and efficiency. The BTS Master MT8220T automatically detects cyclic prefix configuration to simplify user setup and prevent measurement errors. An Auto Range feature automatically optimizes the analyzer configuration for each tuned CC to eliminate user intervention and increase measurement throughput. Automatic MIMO detection enables remote over-the-air (OTA) MIMO verification for all CCs, as well as absolute and delta RS power measurements. Additionally, TAE measurements can be made with the BTS Master MT8220T to troubleshoot and correct excessive timing offsets between CCs. Other measurements that can be conducted include SS power, EVM, and detection of Cell ID.

All measurements can be performed OTA with high accuracy, due the BTS Master MT8220T's superior >25 dB scanner dynamic range. Users can also combine all CCs at a test point for a direct connect measurement. Findings are shown and updated on the large screen in an easy-to-read measurement results table.

Enhancements have also been made to the BTS Master MT8220T spectrum analysis and cable and antenna analysis capabilities. The built-in spectrum analyzer has added support for easyTest so less-experienced technicians can conduct accurate testing, achieve repeatable results, and have less rework. When the analyzer is in cable and antenna analysis Distance-to-Fault (DTF) mode, an added time marker display has been created for more accurate measurements and compensation for cable delays to enhance the precision of geo-location services in VoLTE systems.

 The BTS Master MT8220T is Anritsu's third-generation high-performance handheld base station analyzer specifically developed to advance the support of 4G wireless networks, as well as legacy 2G and 3G networks. An all-in-one solution, the BTS Master features 30 analyzers in a single instrument.