Bluetest is introducing a 5G extension package to the RTS65 reverberation chamber, which consists of a number of options that enable MIMO OTA measurements for initial trials and deployments of 5G applications.

One of the new features is an extension of the chamber frequency range to 650 MHz to 40 GHz when the standard frequency range is 650 MHz to 6 GHz. This extension covers the 28 GHz band that is being tested as a 5G band in North America and Asia. Another new feature is a multiple antenna addition that now allows for measurements with up to 16 parallel streams.

“These new features give our customers the opportunity to make their first OTA measurements on initial 5G applications. We believe that OTA measurement functionalities are important at this early stage in 5G development since the market is making trials on ‘dual connectivity, high frequencies, and the use of multiple streams simultaneously on different bands. We can cover an early need to test these applications.” said Kjell Olovsson, Bluetest CEO.

Bluetest introduces these new functionalities to enable tests of antenna efficiency and passive MIMO/ diversity gain up to 40 GHz using a VNA. The measurements are just as fast and easy as the sub 6 GHz measurements, without generating excessive chamber loss. Receiver sensitivity, transmitter power, and conformance testing like ACLR and spurious emissions can be supported on both user equipment and base stations using non-signaling signal analyzers and vector signal generators.

He continued, “We are following the 5G development closely and have continuous discussions with our 5G customers and partners. As soon as new functionality is introduced, we are ready to support it. We look forward to see the 5G deployment and we know that Bluetest will be an important part of it.”