MWC 2015: 5G channel sounding solution unveiled

5G, the next generation of wireless communications, is expected to introduce a number of enhancements and new technologies enabling data rates of greater than 1 Gbps, making the Internet completely mobile.

To achieve higher data rates, a new air interface standard for mmWave bands is being developed using mathematical models for channel performance. Developers can use Keysight’s channel sounding measurement solution to create channel performance models. They can then use those models with Keysight’s SystemVue system level design and simulation software for 5G air-interface development and validation.

Keysight’s channel sounding solution enables generation of up to 2 GHz wide stimulus signals at mmWave frequencies and transmission of signal-to-antenna array for multi-channel measurements.

It also allows capture of transmitted and reflected mmWave sounding signals for extraction of selected channel characteristics and real time measurements using open FPGAs for long, continuous data acquisitions as well as 3D channel measurements for highly directional antennas

Keysight’s hardware and software solutions for 5G research include the M8190A arbitrary waveform generator which provides the highest sample rate and resolution in the industry. The PSG vector signal generator provides a wide I/Q modulation capability. Its downconversion and signal conditioning modules provide a scalable configuration for wideband signal capture and analysis, with the accuracy required for 5G research. Using Keysight’s SystemVue 5G basebound exploration library, engineers can extract and simulate realistic channel models