Anritsu Introduces Module that Simulates 8x8 MIMO connection to Support All 5G FR1 Bands
Anritsu Corporation introduces its newly developed Butler Matrix 8x8 (0.6 GHz to 7.125 GHz) MA8118A module that simulates 8x8 MIMO connections.
The MA8118A is a Butler Matrix*1 transmission path with 8 input and 8 output ports and supports all 5G FR1*2 bands (in 3GPP September 2023 version) that are not supported by the previous module, Azimuth STACSIM-8x8 (Static Channel Simulator) (ACC-380). When combined with a signaling tester such as the Radio Communication Test Station MT8000A, the throughput of 5G FR1 UEs can be efficiently evaluated.
Development Background
The increased number of 5G FR1 frequency band combinations resulting from advanced carrier aggregation*3 as well as frequency extension requires efficient 5G UE throughput tests. The MA8118A’s fixed 8x8 MIMO transmission path divides one input signal into 8 output ports, minimizing re-cabling when changing test conditions. In addition, expanding the frequencies to cover 0.6 GHz to 7.125 GHz supports both the NR Unlicensed Band*4 and Licensed 6 GHz Band*5 specified by 3GPP Release 16 and 17.
Anritsu helps improve the efficiency of 5G UE throughput tests.
Technical Terms
*1 Butler Matrix
A type of microwave beamforming phased array proposed in 1958 by Judith Butler et al. with multiple input and output ports to divide power input to one port equally to output ports at different phases.
*2 FR1
Abbreviation for Frequency Range 1 band from 0.41 GHz to 7.125 GHz used by 5G NR.
*3 Carrier Aggregation
Technology for increasing communications speeds by aggregating multiple frequency bands.
*4 NR Unlicensed Band
Band of 5G frequencies from 5.15 GHz to 7.125 GHz within the 5G FR1 frequency band defined in 3GPP Release 16 not requiring government permission to use.
*5 Licensed 6 GHz Band
Band of 5G frequencies from 5.925 GHz to 7.125 GHz within the 5G FR1 frequency band defined in 3GPP Release 17.