Validating UWB devices using precise time measurements
Validating ultra-wideband (UWB) devices requires generating and analyzing wideband signals to confirm their transmit and receive capabilities. Accurately calculating the signal's angle of arrival (AoA) ensures the proper functioning of applications that rely on precise positioning. The AoA measurement validates that the device under test (DUT) reports the correct direction of the signal source. As it relates to the position of the target node, each angle translates into a time difference between the arrival of the signals at the array antennas.
To validate the AoA of the UWB device's high-rate pulse frequency, engineers must employ a high-precision delay line to simulate propagation delay in one of the test channels. They can perform AoA measurements using either an RF-connected solution or an over-the-air (OTA) testing environment, which requires an OTA test chamber. The test system requires a vector transceiver and signal generation and analysis software.
UWB AoA test solution
Validating UWB devices requires measurements such as PHY RF performance, AoA, and flight time. AoA measurement verifies that the DUT measures the signal angle correctly based on the phase difference to ensure accurate positioning. The Keysight automated test solution consists of the M9415A VXT PXI vector transceiver, PathWave vector signal analysis, X-Series measurement application, and PathWave signal generation. The solution enables design engineers to perform a range of UWB measurements, including frequency, time, and amplitude domain analysis, as well as antenna characterization and system-level testing. The testing solution uses an advanced OTA approach to map the AoA using its general-purpose VXT transceiver platform.
M9415A VXT PXI Vector Transceiver, 380 MHz to 6/8/12 GHz
The Keysight M9415A VXT PXIe vector transceiver integrates a VSG and a VSA from 380 MHz to 6, 8, or 12 GHz in a 3-slot PXIe module with up to 1.2 GHz bandwidth.