Spirent and AT4 wireless Collaborate on LTE Device Testing

Built on cutting-edge technologies from Spirent and AT4 wireless, the Spirent LTE Network Emulator shares a common platform with AT4 wireless’ E2010 Broadband Wireless Test Set and integrates Spirent’s real-time state machine with enhanced packet core (EPC) network emulation. In combination with Spirent’s existing CDMA and UMTS network emulators, the Spirent LTE Network Emulator delivers a unique multi-technology, multi-cell capability that enables all aspects of LTE multi-mode (LTE with CDMA/EV-DO and/or UMTS) device performance to be fully tested in the lab prior to commercial launch.

It is critical that LTE-capable devices launched during early LTE network deployments, currently planned for 2010, perform well and work seamlessly with legacy networks, so early adopters aren’t disappointed with device performance. Formal industry certification requirements for LTE devices are not expected to be ratified in time to meet the needs of these first deployments. For this reason, leading network operators are expected to set their own LTE device performance requirements, some of which will go beyond basic conformance testing standards. This approach reinforces the need to fully validate LTE multi-mode device performance through comprehensive testing prior to launch.

“User satisfaction with LTE device performance will play an important role in determining the success of early LTE deployments,” said Charles Simmons, president of Spirent’s wireless division. “Network operators and device vendors can now bring to market high performance, best-in-class LTE-capable devices through a rich portfolio of LTE solutions that leverage Spirent’s strengths in device performance testing and AT4 wireless’ strengths in conformance testing for device certification.”

The collaboration also strengthens the conformance test portfolio of AT4 wireless, which will integrate Spirent’s AirAccess CDMA Network Emulator into its LTE Protocol & Radio Resource Management (RRM) Conformance Test solutions.

“This agreement with Spirent helps to reinforce AT4 wireless’ LTE technology strength,” said Joaquín Torrecilla, Chief Technology Officer at AT4 wireless. “Spirent’s wide product range and customer relationships will enable us to apply our technology to a broader range of markets beyond just device conformance test.”

The Spirent LTE Network Emulator forms a key element of Spirent’s 8100 Mobile Device Test System. The 8100 provides test coverage for multiple phases of the product lifecycle, from device manufacturer R&D to network operator device acceptance. Advanced test automation helps reduce time-to-market for devices, across a range of air interface technologies. Spirent’s 8100 LTE solutions also offer a straightforward upgrade path for customers of Spirent’s existing CDMA/EV-DO and UMTS test solutions. For more information on Spirent LTE test solutions, visit http://www.spirent.com/Mobile/LTE_devices.aspx.