The MT8870A Universal Wireless Test Set from Anritsu reduces test times by 80%

A single MT8870A mainframe can contain up to four transmitter/receiver modules. This architecture enables the parallel test of multiple radios from a single MT8870A mainframe, dramatically increasing production throughput whilst minimising initial investment in the production line.

MT8870A can test all the latest technologies from a single TRx module, including LTE, WCDMA, CDMA2000, 1xEVDO and GSM. The provision of 160MHz measurement bandwidth as standard means that the latest generation WLAN 802.11ac radios are supported, as well as Bluetooth 4.0.

To minimise test times, call processing between the MT8870A and the device under test is eliminated. Each TRx module comprises a vector signal generator and vector signal analyser, capable of generating and capturing test packets respectively. Test times are further reduced through the use of a dedicated dual core processor on each TRx module. The result is test times that are up to 80% shorter than previous generation instruments. The versatile architecture supports rapid and economical expansion of production capability by adding additional TRx modules. Additional measurement software and waveform files can also be added as demand requires.

Supplied CombiView software provides a familiar Windows style interface to configure all cellular and short range wireless measurements. Multiple results windows display common graphics including spectral response, constellation diagrams and burst profiles.

MT8870A is rapidly integrated into a production line with the use of supplied CombiTest software. CombiTest is used to create and run custom test plans and provide a results data base, reducing initial start-up software development costs. Custom control packages exist for all common cellular and SRW chip sets.

“With the introduction of the MT8870A, Anritsu have once again shown tremendous innovation. The unique modular design reduces our customers manufacturing costs and provides a very flexible platform on which they can confidently plan their future production. MT8870A has a small footprint whist delivering the lowest test port cost and highest production throughput” said Jonathan Borrill, Director Marketing Strategy Solutions, from Anritsu.