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Top Spectrum Analyzers for 5G Signal Analysis

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Introduction

Spectrum analyzers are essential for testing and optimizing 5G networks, ensuring efficient signal performance. This guide reviews some of the best spectrum analyzers available for 5G applications. The manufacturers mentioned include Keysight, EXFO, Anritsu, Rohde & Schwarz, Calnex Solutions, INNO Instrument, and Giga Electronics.

5G NR (New Radio) refers to the Fifth Generation New Radio standard. The 5G NR specifications are defined in the 38 series release 16 and beyond by the 3GPP group. The frequency bands are mainly categorized into below 6 GHz and above 6 GHz in the mmWave region. The spectrum can be licensed, shared, or unlicensed.

In phase-1, 5G NR operates in non-standalone mode (NSA), whereas in phase-2, 5G NR operates in standalone (SA) mode. In NSA mode, control operations are handled by the 4G LTE eNB (evolved Node B), while data transfer takes place in 5G mode. In SA mode, both control and data exchange are handled by the 5G network alone.

5G NR Measurements

There are two main components in a 5G NR (New Radio) network:

  • UE (User Equipment)
  • BS (Base Station)

5G measurements cover both transmitter and receiver aspects. A spectrum analyzer is used for measurement of the transmitter part, while a signal generator is used for the measurement of the receiver part of the UE/BS. Various transmitter and receiver measurements are performed on the UE and BS in order to certify them as per conformance documents or specifications.

In addition, other measurements include inter-operability tests, stability-related measurements, inter-RAT measurements, drive test measurements, near-field/far-field measurements, and so on. 5G UE and BS transmitter test cases include transmit power, output power dynamics, transmission signal quality, RF output emissions, spurious emissions, occupied bandwidth, ACLR (Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio), etc.

5G NR Spectrum Analyzer Manufacturers

The following table lists some 5G NR Spectrum Analyzer Manufacturers along with details.

ManufacturersDescription
KeysightModel: N9914A (FieldFox Handheld RF Analyzer) Features: Supports measurements for frequencies up to 6.5 GHz
EXFOModel: 5GPro Spectrum Analyzer Features: Spectrum testing in FR1 (450 MHz to 6 GHz) and FR2 (24.25 GHz to 40 GHz) RF bands. Tests CPRI, eCPRI, and Ethernet up to 100G. Demodulates 5G NR signal which validates OTA (Over The Air) performance of cell sites. Application offers BF matrices and analyzes up to 64 beams, displays 12 strongest beams with their power values.
AnritsuModels: MS2850A It supports a frequency range from 9 KHz to 32/44.5 GHz and a bandwidth of 1 GHz. It captures 5G NR signal data which can be further analyzed by 5G NR signal analysis tools or applications.
Calnex Solutions plc.Model: Sentinel Features: 5G NR OTA measurements, 5G NR sync measurements, and so on. Website: https://www.calnexsol.com/ Email: troy.bergstrom@calnexsol.com
Rohde & SchwarzModel: R&S FSW Signal and spectrum analyzer Features: 8.3 GHz analysis bandwidth for 5G NR modulated signals, 800 MHz real-time analysis bandwidth supports a frequency range from 2 Hz to 90 GHz.
INNO InstrumentIncheon, South Korea Models: 5G SMART, 5G PRO
GIGA Electronics LtdBulgaria Model: E8900A 5G NR (New radio) Handheld Spectrum Analyzer Features: Supports frequencies from 9 kHz to 9 GHz. Demodulation analysis of FDD-LTE or TDD-LTE signals including cell ID, channel power, and other parameters.

Conclusion

Choosing the right spectrum analyzer enhances 5G signal analysis and network optimization. Leading manufacturers continue to develop advanced solutions for better accuracy.