The SMM100A series of vector signal generators from Rohde & Schwarz have models that generate RF signals from 100 kHz with a high-end model to 44 GHz. That covers today’s 5G frequencies and more.

Wireless components and systems need testing for standards compliance, interoperability, and characterization. The SMM100A series of vector signal generators from Rohde & Schwarz has models that cover frequencies starting at 100 kHz with top frequencies of:

• 6 GHz for 5G low band, Wi-Fi 4, 5, 6, and Bluetooth
• 7.5 GHz for the new Wi-Fi 6E and 5G bands
• 12.75 GHz, which will cover the proposed 12 GHz 5G and it covers high-rate pulse ultrawideband (UWB) band
• 20 GHz
• 31.8 GHz for the popular 24 GHz and 28 GHz 5G mmWave frequencies
• 44 GHz, which covers the 5G 39 GHz band

Signal bandwidth starts at 120 MHz with options for 240 MHz, 500 MHz, and 1 GHz.

The instruments can test receivers by generating signals that comply with numerous standards such as 5G NR, ODFM, cellular IoT, LTE, 3GPP FDD/HSPA/HSPA+, GSM/EDGE/EDGE Evolution, CDMA2000, 1xEV-DO Rev. A/B, WLAN IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/j/p/ac/ax,
HRP UWB, and AWGN. Furthermore, the arbitrary waveform generator feature lets you produce custom test signals through R&SWinIQSIM2 software for lab or production use. You don’t need an external waveform generator. Waveform memory starts at 64 Msamples with 2 Gsamples optional. An envelope-tracking option generates a signal’s envelopes, which is useful for creating 5G NR and LTE signals. The SMM 100A also supports digital predistortion, which adds signal characteristics the compensate for losses and distortion produced in the RF signal chain.

Many of the options are available through software upgrades with timed upgrades available. A central server stores the license keys so if you have several units that need optional features but not at the same time, you can share licenses in a pool and use as needed. You also have the option of timed licenses when you need an option for a limited amount of time. The figure below shows some of the hardware and software options.

When it come to test equipment, specs matter significantly. The SMM100A’s single sideband (SSB) phase noise is less than -129 dBc at 1 GHz (20 kHz offset). Typically, it’s as good as -134 dBc. It’s error-vector magnitude (EVM) is less than -42 dB (0.8%) at 28 GHz.

The rear-panel (shown below) highlight many of the connectivity choices, including USB, HDMI, Ethernet, and GPIB. A removable hard drive lets you disable the instrument for security purposes when such situations arise.