Rohde & Schwarz test solutions at UK Space Conference

Satellite communication systems must cover a diverse set of requirements in direct broadcast, wireless communications and remote sensing applications, operate reliably 24/7 with multi-decade system longevity, and be thoroughly tested to ensure a quality of service over the life cycle of the satellite.

Visitors to the Rohde & Schwarz stand will see state-of-the-art solutions that address these industry challenges. These include the R&S ZNA low-noise vector network analyser, R&S SMW200 configurable vector signal generator, R&S FSW signal and spectrum analyser, and the R&S GSACSM signal monitoring solution for multi-device spectrum monitoring and satellite antenna testing, all trusted reference instruments of laboratories at the forefront of research worldwide.

Rohde & Schwarz experts will demonstrate how these solutions can help prepare systems for a life in space. The portfolio contains test solutions suitable for equipment both on the ground and on-board space vehicles.

Highlighted applications include ground stations and ground terminals, positioning and navigation systems, satellite components and payloads, small satellites, and transmit/receive modules and antennas.

The R&S ZNA vector network analyser combines excellent RF performance with a wide range of software features. The configurable hardware concept allows users to specify multiple low-noise sources, receivers, pulse modulators, and pulse generators.

A convenient user interface and powerful features make characterising passive and active devices easy. Two- and four-port models are available and the frequency range extends from 10 MHz to a maximum of 67 GHz.

The R&S SMW200A vector signal generator supports single-path and dual-path operation, covering the signal range up to 67 GHz and 44 GHz respectively in each mode. It can also be configured for multichannel MIMO receiver testing up to 8x8 channels. The instrument can generate signals for all major digital communications standards and is also used for advanced GNSS and radar testing.

The high-performance R&S FSW signal and spectrum analyser has a wide internal analysis bandwidth for use with wideband components and communications systems.

With extremely low phase noise and excellent sensitivity, the analyser has internal analysis bandwidth of 8.3GHz, real-time analysis bandwidth of 800 MHz, and high dynamic range. Its integrated SCPI recorder simplifies code generation to boost user productivity.

The R&S GSACSM communication monitoring system is a SATMON software solution for remote spectrum monitoring and signal analysis.

By providing classic spectrum analyser functions, trapping systems, and advanced signal detection and identification algorithms, this high-performance instrument handles multi-device spectrum monitoring, radiated power monitoring for antenna signals, and VSAT, SCPC signals, CID, and under-carrier signals.

The system also comes with an API for software remote control.