In order to guarantee optimal beam steering and beam directivity of their ground-breaking product, Kyocera uses CATR-based multi-reflector OTA testing technology from Rohde & Schwarz. Kyocera has developed a novel mmWave phased array antenna module (PAAM) that simultaneously creates multiple beams in different directions at different frequencies. These PAAMs will be used in 5G FR2 infrastructure installations, enabling for example site co-location of different operators running networks on different frequency bands.
At MWC 2025 in Barcelona, Kyocera and Rohde & Schwarz will present the characterisation of a new mmWave PAAM design for FR2 applications. The R&S ATS1800M 5G NR multi-directional mmWave test chamber from Rohde & Schwarz, which is essential to the demonstration at the Kyocera booth (5E12), is made for over-the-air (OTA) testing with a remarkably compact footprint.
Beamforming antenna arrays can be used to address the substantial path loss experienced by mobile communications operating in the FR2 frequency range. FR2 antennas usually employ phased arrays with a large number of individual antenna elements, in contrast to conventional antennas.
With 384 dual polarization elements, Kyocera has created a unique phased array antenna module (PAAM) that can simultaneously produce up to 8 beams in various directions at various frequencies. This concept makes it possible for many operators to run networks on various frequency bands by utilizing the PAAM in site installations.
To create an RF beam with the required properties, all of these antenna components must, however, function flawlessly together.
Engineers may confirm the proper beam pattern and aid in the sidelobe reduction process by using Rohde & Schwarz’s proprietary method for testing such a complex antenna array over-the-air (OTA) in a completely shielded environment.
The R&S ATS1800M is a Unique Solution That Features:
- Four feed antennas and CATR reflectors, each with a 30 cm quiet zone (QZ).
- In the demonstration at MWC 2025, the Kyocera PAAM device under test (DUT) is placed on a rugged 3D positioner in the center, where all four QZs overlap, coming from multiple directions.
- This allows Kyocera’s engineers to address a variety of different tests, including the simultaneous reception of RF beams from four different directions, as will be shown at MWC 2025.
- Thanks to the vertical CATR design patented by Rohde & Schwarz, this setup takes up a fairly small footprint in the lab compared to other OTA-solutions.
In addition to the mmWave test chamber, the complete test setup includes several Rohde & Schwarz test instruments that function flawlessly together: an R&S NGP800 power supply, a 5G NR-capable R&S FSW signal and spectrum analyzer, and four 5G NR-capable R&S SMW200A vector signal generators. One of the R&S ATS1800M feed antennas will receive a 5G NR FR2 signal that is simulated by each generator.
Through one of the CATR reflectors, the signal is sent to the DUT. The experts at Kyocera can model intricate reception scenarios of four frequency-independent signals from four distinct locations by combining all signal sources, feed antennas, and reflectors. The signal analyzer attached to the Kyocera PAAM can be used to view the quality of the received signal.
Visitors to MWC 2025 can experience this milestone demonstration live at the Kyocera booth 5E12 in hall 5 of the Fira Gran Via in Barcelona from March 3 to 6, 2025.
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