Rohde & Schwarz vector signal generator

The Rohde & Schwarz SMW200A high-end vector signal generator combines flexibility, performance and intuitive operation in generating complex, digitally modulated signals. With versatile configuration options, its range of applications extends from single-path vector signal generator to multichannel MIMO receiver tester.

The SMW200A combines a baseband generator, RF generator and MIMO fading simulator in a single instrument. The vector signal generator covers the frequency range from 100 kHz to 3 GHz or 6 GHz and features an I/Q modulation bandwidth of 160 MHz with internal baseband. Modulation and RF characteristics make it suitable for developing high-end components, modules and complete products for wideband communications systems such as LTE-Advanced and WLAN IEEE 802.11ac. The generator performs especially well when it comes to the verification of 3G and 4G base stations as well as aerospace and defence applications.

The SMW200A can be equipped with an optional second RF path for frequencies up to 6 GHz and with a maximum of two baseband and four fading simulator modules, giving users two full-featured vector signal generators in a single unit. Fading scenarios such as 2x2 MIMO, 8x2 MIMO for TD-LTE and 2x2 MIMO for LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation can be simulated.

More than two RF sources are required for applications such as 3x3 MIMO for WLAN or 4x4 MIMO for LTE-FDD. In addition to the two internal RF paths provided, highly compact SGS100A signal generator modules can be connected as additional RF sources and remotely controlled by the SMW200A. This solution takes up only five height units for 4x4 MIMO receiver tests and provides correctly encoded baseband signals, real-time channel simulation, AWGN generation and, if required, phase-locked coupling of multiple RF paths.

Options for every important digital communications standard are available from the start: LTE, LTE-Advanced, 3GPP FDD/HSPA/HSPA+, GSM/EDGE/EDGE Evolution, TD-SCDMA, CDMA2000/1xEV-DO and WLAN IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac. The standards run directly on the SMW200A - without having to connect an external PC, making it possible to vary signals or specific parameters quickly and easily. This simplifies troubleshooting on the DUT and also saves time. Because the SMW200A is multichannel-compatible, developers can even create scenarios using different signals with minimal effort; eg, in order to test multistandard radio base stations.

The signal quality of the SMW200A ensures high accuracy in spectral and modulation measurements. The SSB phase noise is -139 dBc (typ) at 1 GHz (20 kHz offset). In terms of modulation quality, the SMW200A achieves an EVM of -49 dB (meas) for WLAN IEEE 802.11ac signals as well as a 0.05 dB (meas) I/Q modulation frequency response over 160 MHz bandwidth.

The touch screen enables users to control the instrument even more intuitively with the block diagram as a key operating element to visualise the signal flow. Help functions are provided to quickly achieve success. Presets are provided for all important digital standards and fading scenarios. LTE and UMTS test case wizards simplify complex base station conformance testing in line with the 3GPP specification.