Rohde & Schwarz paves the way for research in the terahertz frequency range by demonstrating the possibility of transmitting data at gigabit rates in the D-band at 140 GHz. The solution uses the R&S FSW high-end spectrum and signal analyzer, which, with the R&S FSW-B8001 option, offers a market-leading internal analysis bandwidth of 8.3 GHz. This new hardware option will soon be available from Rohde & Schwarz.
The evolution of mobile communication technologies calls for ever-increasing bandwidths in order to achieve ever-higher data rates. Rohde & Schwarz offers one of the first solutions enabling researchers to explore the potential of data transmission at sub-THz frequencies, over ultra-wide bandwidths.
The solution uses the R&S TC RSE converter box, which up-converts a broadband signal to the selected frequency of 140 GHz. The R&S SMA100B analog signal generator, one of the best in the world, delivers the local oscillator frequency to the up-converter. Transmission takes place over the air, with the converter connected to a horn antenna. The transmitted signal is received by another horn antenna and down-converted. The R&S FSW, with a bandwidth of 8.3 GHz thanks to the unique new R&S FSW-B8001 option, analyzes the signal and performs signal quality measurements such as error vector magnitude (EVM) to assess transmission performance. The solution on display supports a range of common modulation formats. The four-channel power supply from Rohde & Schwarz's new R&S NGP800 series also plays an essential role in powering the various components of this system.
Rohde & Schwarz supports the launch of research into THz frequencies
Advances in wireless communications and sensing technologies make wider bandwidths essential. These developments are pushing current frequency limits into the sub-THz and THz frequency range, continuing the extension process initiated by 5G technologies. This requires the implementation of over-the-air (OTA) testing. At these frequencies, the integration of RF front-ends is even more advanced. Their characterization in terms of signal quality (EVM) and out-of-band emission (ACLR, SEM, interference) requires a flexible OTA test system, covering a wide range of frequencies, from the microwave and millimeter-wave domains to sub-THz frequencies.
The proposed solution is easily integrated into the R&S ATS1000 antenna test system. This enables design engineers to characterize RF front-end prototypes and reference designs intended for use by future cellular and non-cellular communications equipment operating at much wider bandwidths. For example, the IEEE 802.11ay standard enables channel aggregation, which now makes it possible to create a signal with a bandwidth of over 8 GHz. The R&S FSW is currently the only spectrum and signal analyzer on the market with the internal bandwidth required for such applications. This makes it considerably easier to implement complex configurations in R&D.
"While Rohde & Schwarz meets the test requirements of 5G technology, today still in the process of definition and deployment, we are already looking at ways to develop tomorrow's technology. This revolutionary D-band test solution is an important step in the research that goes beyond 5G, and will lead to the next generation of mobile technology," said Andreas Roessler, CTO at Rohde & Schwarz.
A demonstration of this solution in the chosen frequency range was due to take place at the 6G Wireless Summit, organized by the University of Oulu in Levi, Finland. In the end, the summit will take place virtually.
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