Midrange VNA speeds 5G component design by 50%

Demand for ever-increasing data speeds with ultra-low latency is pushing the next generation of wireless communications systems to operate at higher radio frequencies (RF).

To ensure 5G New Radio (NR) transmitters meet these operational demands, RF engineers must fully test the design and performance of components such as power amplifiers (PA).

Obtaining measurements for PAs under realistic conditions can be time consuming, requiring multiple instruments and test setups.

In addition, acquiring the precise EVM measurements needed to certify PA conformance to 5G standards requires using a high-performance VNA.

The new Keysight ENA-X addresses this need by giving RF engineers a midrange network analyser platform with integrated modulation distortion analysis offering full vector correction at the device under test (DUT) plane in a single test setup.

With a unique architecture, the ENA-X can perform multiple measurements with a single connection, which simplifies test setup, drives repeatability, and speeds testing.

Keysight ENA-X provides the following benefits:

• Integrated solution – Provides an integrated upconverter, direct receiver access, and modulated distortion analysis software enabling characterisation of RF amplifier performance under complex modulation schemes in high-power systems operating at up to 44 GHz.
• Simplified setup – Offers a single test setup run with one connection and requiring only a single calibration that accelerates the characterisation of PAs for 5G transmitters in the 5G NR FR1 and FR2 frequency bands by up to 50%
• Accurate, repeatable results – Builds on Keysight’s metrology expertise with patented, custom monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMIC) to provide the highest measurement accuracy, easily repeatable results, and the lowest residual EVM on the market.

Joe Rickert, Vice President and General Manager, Keysight High Frequency Measurements Center of Excellence, said: “Combined with the powerful modulation distortion analysis software that was previously only available on our highest-performing PNA series network analysers, the new midrange E5081A ENA-X VNA solution is ideal for power amplifier characterisation for 5G transmitters. Thanks to its custom-built MMICs, the ENA-X provides the highest output power, dynamic range, and system stability needed by RF engineers without masking the performance of the power amplifier under test.”

Keysight will demonstrate its comprehensive portfolio of wireless design, emulation, and test solutions, including the ENA-X, at IMS 2023 in San Diego June (13-15).