IQnxnplus Multi-Steam MIMO Test Systems

Image
2x2 Test System with Sync Unit
The LitePoint IQnxnplus is a modular Multi-Stream MIMO test system that provides multiple, simultaneous TX and RX data streams for testing WiFi and WiMAX devices with up to 4 TX and 4 RX channels. These test systems offer program compatibility with IQmax test systems allowing test programs to be developed on an IQnxnplus system, and then deployed on individual IQmax systems for high volume testing.

A Modular Approach to Multi-Stream MIMO 

Image

The IQnxnplus system can be configured over a range of device requirements from 2 TX and 2 RX channels to 4 TX and 4RX channels. The modular approach of the system allows customers to start with a Multi-Stream MIMO-ready unit (1 TX and 1 RX channel), and then add a synchronization unit and multiple IQmax-750 Vector Signal Analyzer (VSA) and Vector Signal Generator (VSG) combination units. The resulting system provides complete Multi-Stream MIMO test capabilities for both WiFi and WiMAX devices.

Ready for WiMAX Wave2 and 802.11n Challenges 

Image
Switched vs Multi-Stream MIMO EVM (11n)

WiMAX Wave2 and 802.11n device standards serve different end customer segments, but both use Multi-Stream MIMO techniques to offer more robust data links with higher bandwidth. In order to properly validate these designs in R&D, a true Multi-Stream MIMO solution is the only viable approach. Real world devices lack perfect isolation between channels, causing measurement errors when trying to validate these devices with switched MIMO approaches. This is particularly evident when comparing EVM measurements using random data on multiple measurement streams between switched EVM and Multi-Stream EVM measurements. The result can be lower yields.

Tackles WiMAX Wave2 Beamforming Challenges

WiMAX Wave2 systems can be verified with the IQnxnplus because its distributed LO and trigger system maintains locked phase between channels throughout the entire frame which is typically 5 ms.

Features

  • System Architecture - First test solution with multiple integrated and synchronized VSA and VSG functions for testing advanced MIMO products
  • Flexible - Supports multiple wireless standards; the IQnxnplus MIMO Test System can be used for both (mobile, wave 2) WiMAX and (11n) WiFi MIMO testing - each individual single channel unit can be used for SISO testing as well
  • IQnxnplus Synchronization Unit - Synchronize signal frequency and phase of multiple single channel one-box test  units
  • Supported frequencies - 2.15 to 2.7 GHz, 3.3 to 3.8 GHz, and 4.9 to 6.0 GHz
  • High performance RF and EVM accuracy
  • Expandable to meet your needs - Use additional IQmax test systems to accomplish 2x3, 3x3 and 4x4 MIMO testing
  • Includes IQsignal for WiMAX and WiFi Analysis Software and Bluetooth too.
  • Optional Software Support - LitePoint ZigBee Software, IQfact Test Software, and IQwave for WiMAX Waveform Generation Software

 Benefits 

  • Improved MIMO Test Accuracy
    • Multi-Stream MIMO EVM avoids false results from Switch EVM for greater test confidence and higher yields
  • Accelerated R&D-to-Manufacturing Transition
    • No learning curve – intuitive user interface gives R&D engineers immediate and easy access to standards compliant test function
    • Seamless transition from quality to factory floor with use of common API for customer-developed test programs
    • Flexible test system accommodates other combinations configurations (2x3, 3x3, 4x4) by simply adding LitePoint IQmax units
  • Reduced manufacturing costs
    • LitePoint’s work with key MIMO and WiMAX chipset solution makers to profile performance of popular devices eliminates need for development and QA to do so
    • Can be used on the manufacturing floor
  • Verifies WiMAX Wave2 Beamforming
    • Distributed LO and trigger system maintains locked phase between channels throughout entire WiMAX frame

 System Requirements

  • PC: Intel® Intel Pentium processor or compatible, 500MHz (1GHz or higher recommended)
  • Operating system: Microsoft Windows 2000 (SP3 or higher), Windows XP (SP1 or higher)
  • Memory: 512MB of RAM
  • Disk space: 500MB of available hard disk space
  • Monitor: 1024 x 768 resolution
  • Connectivity: TCP/IP over 10/100BaseT Ethernet (Gbit Ethernet recommended)

 Next Steps