Cat5 is a classification for LTE UEs that provides enhanced data rates
for both UL and DL. Using a 20 MHz bandwidth and FDD under good channel
conditions, a data rate of 300 Mbps is available in the downlink, due to the
addition of support for 4x4 MIMO. In the uplink the data rate is boosted to 75
Mbps by taking advantage of 64QAM modulation in addition to the earlier QPSK
and 16QAM. Cat5 also introduces limited buffer rate matching in the DL, which
confines the memory requirements allowing for cost effective handsets.
The TM500 Test Mobile now provides demodulation and decoding of downlink
signals transmitted in 4x4 MIMO, and transmission of uplink signals modulated
using 64QAM, in support of these higher LTE data rates.
The TM500’s “per antenna” measurement capability allows the engineers to
validate eNodeB RF functionality with direct cabling, while its “per RF path” measurements
offer a powerful tool for use over the air during field trials, for studying the
use cases that maximize the benefits of the four-transmitter (4 Tx) topology of
4x4 MIMO. A constellation plot is also available, which provides the engineer
with a rapid scan of the signal quality.
The TM500 Test Mobile can also be used in stress test cases at an early
stage in the development of Cat5, where one or two of the TM500 units are used
in an attempt to utilize all the eNodeB resources while other handsets or UE
also required to be served.
About Aeroflex LTE Expertise
Aeroflex LTE leadership started with the delivery of test systems in
2007 and now continues with a complete range of end-to-end test systems that
cover R&D, performance, service, and manufacturing test applications for
LTE TDD and FDD network equipment and terminals.
The TM500 Test Mobile family is in use with almost every base station manufacturer
across the world, and can be regarded as the de facto standard for eNodeB development
and testing. EAST500 is the only network capacity test solution that
incorporates the proven Aeroflex TM500 LTE air interface.
The Aeroflex 7100 LTE Digital Radio Test Set is a complete one-box test
system providing all the tools required for the measurement and characterization
of UE chip sets and mobile terminals to 3GPP LTE standards, including optional
signal fading simulation.
The PXI 3000 Series, modular RF test system based on PXI technology is a
proven solution to accelerate throughput in manufacturing and time to market in
R&D while catering for current and future RF test needs. It is particularly
suited to modern cellular and wireless data communications and critical testing
in a high volume manufacturing environment.
Aeroflex has engineers working in centers around the world on its LTE and LTEAdvanced test systems, to support the current and next generation of networks and devices.
About Aeroflex
Aeroflex Incorporated is a leading global provider of high performance microelectronic
components and test and measurement equipment used by companies in the space,
avionics, defense, commercial wireless communications, medical and other
markets.