This collaboration paves the way for real-world MIMO stress testing, crucial for ultra-fast and low-latency applications like 4K streaming and AR/VR.
Bluetest for Wi-Fi 7 testing. (Image: Rohde & Schwarz)
Bluetest and Rohde & Schwarz have expanded their longstanding partnership by integrating the Wi-Fi 7 testing capabilities of the R&S CMX500 one-box signaling tester into Bluetest’s Flow control software. This collaboration enables developers and manufacturers of next-generation WLAN devices to leverage Bluetest’s reverberation test systems (RTS) for MIMO stress testing of IEEE 802.11be stations and access points under realistic conditions.
Bluetest specializes in reverberation chambers, such as the RTS65, designed for efficient over-the-air testing of wireless devices. Unlike anechoic chambers, reverberation chambers reflect RF signals extensively, creating a multipath environment that simulates real-world indoor and urban scenarios. This makes them ideal for testing modern multi-antenna (MIMO) and multi-carrier technologies used in WLAN, 4G, and 5G.
By integrating the Wi-Fi 7 capabilities of the R&S CMX500 into its Flow software, Bluetest offers WLAN developers a robust testing environment for advanced WLAN devices. The Wi-Fi 7 standard, or IEEE 802.11be, is designed for ultra-high data throughput, supporting tens of gigabits per second with low latency. This is crucial for applications such as 4K video streaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality. Key innovations include 320 MHz channel bandwidth, 16 spatial streams, 4096 QAM modulation, and multi-link operation (MLO).
Testing next-generation WLAN devices requires evaluating antennas and RF characteristics under real-world conditions. The R&S CMX500 supports these needs with its multi-technology, multi-channel design and embedded IP testing capabilities, making it a versatile tool for Wi-Fi 7 testing.
Christoph Pointner, Senior Vice President at Rohde & Schwarz, emphasized the partnership’s impact on advancing WLAN testing, saying, “This collaboration provides a real-world environment crucial for developing cutting-edge wireless solutions.”
Bluetest CEO Kjell Olovsson highlighted the enhanced testing capabilities, stating, “Integrating the CMX500 into our Flow software reaffirms our commitment to advancing wireless communication technologies.”
