Rohde & Schwarz tests for Bluetooth Low Energy up to version 5.2
Rohde & Schwarz has introduced the R&S CMW platform of Bluetooth testers which support the new Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) version 5.2 power control test routines. According to the company, the CMW testers are the only instruments that measure all specified RF tests up to Bluetooth LE 5.0 via the over the air (OTA) interface.
The company has submitted the CMW platform to the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) for the specification of a new Bluetooth LE test mode.
The Bluetooth SIG adopted the first specifications for BLE 5.2 at the end of 2019. This initially concerns the new power control functions. Rohde & Schwarz has already integrated specified tests into the Bluetooth test software of its wireless testers in the R&S CMW platform. In addition, Bluetooth LE 5.2 will provide extended audio functions similar to those of Bluetooth Classic. As soon as the specifications are finalised, Rohde & Schwarz says it will expand the functional range of its Bluetooth testers.
Rohde & Schwarz is also introducing the Bluetooth LE test mode for Bluetooth LE 5.0. Similar to Bluetooth Classic, it allows manufacturers to perform all RF and pre-conformance tests on Bluetooth LE components via the OTA interface. This simplifies testing, as no additional control cable is required as is the case for direct test mode (DTM). Testing times are just as short as when using DTM, confirms Rohde & Schwarz. The OTA test procedures have been submitted to the Bluetooth SIG for specification of a new Bluetooth LE test mode.
The new test mode is based on the R&S CMW platform of wireless communications testers and is suitable for measurements during development, production and in test chambers. Another benefit is that the R&S CMW measures the bit error rate (BER) of a transmission in Bluetooth LE receivers in addition to the specified packet error rate (PER).
The R&S CMW can perform all Bluetooth RF conformance tests, from Bluetooth Classic to Bluetooth LE and Bluetooth 5.2. It can also perform a multitude of audio tests on Bluetooth basic rate/enhanced data rate (BR/EDR) connections.
The R&S CMW500, R&S CMW290 and R&S CMW270 wireless testers are also suitable for testing other wireless technologies. They have a 160MHz measurement bandwidth, sufficient to test all RF parameters specified in all IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards, including 802.11ax. The testers can also perform RF tests on Zigbee components for smart home applications.
