Test solutions for BLE up to version 5.2

25th February 2020

Alex Lynn

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The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (Bluetooth SIG) adopted the first specifications for BLE 5.2 at the end of 2019. This initially concerns the new power control functions. Rohde & Schwarz has already integrated specified tests into the Bluetooth test software of its wireless testers in the R&S CMW platform.

In addition, Bluetooth LE 5.2 will provide extended audio functions similar to those of Bluetooth Classic. As soon as the specifications have been finalised, Rohde & Schwarz will expand the functional range of its Bluetooth testers accordingly.

In addition, Rohde & Schwarz has introduced the new Bluetooth LE test mode for Bluetooth LE 5.0. Similar to Bluetooth Classic, it allows manufacturers to perform all RF and pre-conformance tests on their Bluetooth LE components via the air interface (OTA).

This simplifies testing considerably, as no additional control cable is required as would be necessary for direct test mode (DTM). Testing times are just as short as when using DTM. The OTA test procedures have already been submitted to the Bluetooth SIG for specification of a new Bluetooth LE test mode.

The new test mode is based on the R&S CMW platform of wireless communications testers from Rohde & Schwarz and is suitable for measurements during development, production and in test chambers. As an additional highlight for developers, the R&S CMW measures the bit error rate (BER) of a transmission in Bluetooth LE receivers in addition to the specified packet error rate (PER).

The R&S CMW can perform all Bluetooth RF conformance tests – from Bluetooth Classic to Bluetooth LE and Bluetooth 5.2. It can also perform a multitude of audio tests on Bluetooth basic rate/enhanced data rate (BR/EDR) connections.

The R&S CMW500, R&S CMW290 and R&S CMW270 wireless testers are also suitable for testing other wireless technologies. With 160 MHz measurement bandwidth, they can test all RF parameters specified in all IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards, including 802.11ax. The testers can also perform RF tests on Zigbee components for smart home applications.