Generate higher-order MIMO scenarios with compact real-time fading

Equipped with the new SMW-K75 option, the R&S SMW200A high-end vector signal generator from Rohde & Schwarz can generate complex scenarios of up to 4x8 or 8x4 MIMO as well as two MIMO systems with up to 4x4 MIMO. Multiple input multiple output transmission is used for a number of digital communications standards, including LTE, LTE-Advanced and WLAN (802.11n, 802.11ac). The technology will likely also play a key role for 5G. The solution is aimed at users working on research and development of base stations and wireless devices for the mobile communications market, says the company. For this test solution, a single R&S SMW200A with its two integrated RF channels generates both the complete test signal (e.g. LTE or WLAN) and the channel simulation with realtime fading. The additional RF channels needed in the setup are provided by ultra-compact R&S SGT100A RF sources from Rohde & Schwarz. As a result, a 2x4x4 MIMO receiver test setup with one R&S SMW200A and six R&S SGT100A requires less than one third of the space of other commercially available solutions and costs less. Users will also appreciate the easy operation. The entire test setup can be controlled via the signal generator. Typical applications for the R&S SMW200A include the generation of LTE signals with 4x8 MIMO in the uplink or LTE carrier aggregation with two carriers and up to 4x4 MIMO for each carrier in the downlink. The test solution can also be used to simulate signal scenarios with two cells for dual-cell LTE or for interference testing with two mobile devices that communicate simultaneously, each over their own MIMO channel, says the company.