An OTA measurement solution has been developed by ANRITSU CORPORATION and Bluetest in collaboration to evaluate the performance of 5G IoT devices compliant with the RedCap (Reduced Capability) specification and are optimized for IoT applications by 3GPP Release 17.
This system integrates Anritsu’s Base Station Simulator MT8000A with Bluetest’s Reverberation Test System (RTS) family of reverberation chambers (RTS65/85/95) and the related Flow measuring control software.
It ensures both practicality and reliability by supporting thorough evaluation of RedCap-compatible devices, including throughput, Total Radiated Power (TRP), and Total Isotropic Sensitivity (TIS).
By sending and receiving signals across open space, OTA testing with the RTS65 assesses the overall communication performance of wireless devices, including antennas, in a realistic setting.
The MT8000A’s broad receiving range aids in stabilizing communications, allowing for quick and effective testing, even though OTA testing occasionally produces erratic communications depending on test conditions.
RedCap is a new 5G specification that is distinguished by its small size, low cost, and low power consumption. The 3GPP Release 17 RedCap specification is tailored for Internet of Things applications, including wearable technology, industrial sensors, and security cameras. In 2024, commercial deployment began in the US and China, with plans to expand to Japan and other areas starting in 2025.
By enabling the development and testing of RedCap-compatible devices through this joint solution with Bluetest, Anritsu helps to accelerate the global deployment of 5G IoT across a variety of industries.
Leadership Comments
“By collaborating with Anritsu, we have produced a test solution that combines the speed of reverberation chamber measurements with the ease of use of the MT8000A for RedCap devices,” says Sara Catteau, Business Development Manager at Bluetest. “This provides users with a test that is easy to configure and produces accurate results quickly.”
Makoto Yamada, Director of Solution Marketing Department, Mobile Solutions Division at Anritsu, says, “We are pleased to contribute to the efficiency of performance testing for 5G IoT devices through our collaboration with Bluetest. As the number of RedCap-compatible devices increases, pre-evaluation of RF performance will become increasingly important. We are confident that this partnership will significantly contribute to the growth of this market and the transition to 5G.”
