Viasat and Rohde & Schwarz have teamed up to advance testing for Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN) IoT devices that connect via satellite.
Their goal is to make sure these devices perform reliably and communicate seamlessly with Viasat’s satellite network.
This is said to pave the way for steady, uninterrupted connectivity across a broad range of satellite-powered IoT applications. Visitors at MWC Barcelona 2026 will be able to see this collaborative test plan in action.
As a global leader in satellite communications, Viasat brings unmatched expertise in connectivity, while Rohde & Schwarz, a leading test and measurement specialist, contributes its advanced testing technology.
Together, they’re enhancing validation processes for Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), focusing particularly on NB-IoT devices. The partnership is designed to confirm that chipsets, modules, and devices can smoothly interoperate with Viasat’s network and meet 3GPP Release 17 standards.
This initiative underscores the companies’ shared commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality, performance, and reliability. By introducing robust testing methodologies, they aim to support the rollout of ubiquitous IoT applications in remote and hard-to-reach areas that lack terrestrial network coverage.
At the core of the certification test plan is the Rohde & Schwarz CMX500 one-box signaling tester, a flexible, all-in-one solution for testing multiple NTN technologies, including New Radio (NR-NTN) and NB-NTN.
Covering everything from R&D to certification and carrier acceptance testing, the CMX500 helps engineers move faster, ensure quality, and confidently deploy reliable NTN services. This approach strengthens the entire ecosystem by guaranteeing consistent, repeatable performance results.
Rohde & Schwarz will present the first test results, including protocol, performance, and RF test scenarios, at its MWC Barcelona booth (Hall 5, Booth 5A80) from March 2–5, 2026. Visitors can also explore Viasat’s innovations in Hall 6, Booth 6A20.
To Know More About CMX500 for NTN Testing: CLICK HERE
