Wideband I/Q data recorder records signal scenarios for ‘realistic tests’
To simulate real-world test environments, Rohde & Schwarz offers the R&S IQW wideband I/Q data recorder. It can be used to record signal scenarios typically required in test cases at a bandwidth up to 512MHz and high sampling rates.
The data recorder records wideband RF signals and reproduces them to simulate real-world test environments, enabling realistic, repeatable device tests in the lab, says Rohde & Schwarz.
Consisting of an R&S FSW signal and spectrum analyser, the R&S IQW wideband I/Q data recorder and an R&S SMW200A vector signal generator and records the signal spectrum of a wideband RF signal or the spectra of multiple narrowband signals in a frequency band, with a bandwidth up to 512 MHz. It is suitable for realistic component tests with radar signals, for deployments using a variety of RF test scenarios in the automotive sector, and for tests employing GNSS signals, for example.
To obtain signals as realistic as possible for simulations, the R&S IQW high-end I/Q data recorder samples signal spectra at a rate up to 640Msamples per second and a large bit depth – 16 bits each for I and Q data. Removable 6.4Tbyte SSD memory packs are used for storage.
Signals are captured by an R&S FSW signal and spectrum analyser. The instrument acquires signals with high sensitivity, generates the corresponding I/Q data in real time and transfers the data gapless to the R&S IQW. There are seven models of the R&S FSW for frequency ranges up to 90GHz.
For signal playback, the wideband recorder feeds the I/Q data to the R&S SMW200A vector signal generator, which reconstructs and delivers the corresponding RF signal. The generator supports a range of signal configurations and can add radio signals, e.g. standard cellular, WLAN and GNSS signals, to the R&S IQW signal to create more complex signal scenarios. In this way, defined and repeatable measurements are enabled, either under controlled conditions in the lab or in an EMC test chamber, as frequently required in the test cases for the diverse standards.
The wideband I/Q data recorder is usually operated via LAN using a web-based GUI that automatically adapts to the screen size. The recorder can also be operated locally via its 5.7-inch TFT touchscreen, with the option of connecting an accessory keyboard and mouse.
