Standard-Compliant Validation of Wi-Fi PA/FEM Components
Engineers working to develop the latest components and devices for Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 8 face new test challenges as IEEE standards continually evolve. With specifications such as channel bandwidths up to 640 MHz, modulation orders of 4096-QAM and 8192-QAM, and advanced MIMO operation, Wi-Fi PA/FEMs must be tested more rigorously than ever before. With a similar need for better RF performance, there is a challenge to accurately test these devices while still reaching consumers quickly, reliably, and with minimized development cost.
- Provide sufficient RF spectrum coverage across all (2.4/5/6 GHz, mmWave) Wi-Fi frequency bands
- Allow instantaneous bandwidth 3–5 times channel bandwidth for applications like digital pre-distortion (DPD) (1,440 to 2,400 MHz bandwidth)
- Enable fast, automated test for characterization across many parameters such as frequency and power
- Incorporate additional DUT test requirements such as analog, digital, DC I/O
- Scale with adapting DUT requirements and be versatile enough to accommodate DUTs on new standards
- Incorporate future-proof RF test instrumentation, able to meet measurement requirements of Wi-Fi 7 while looking forward to Wi-Fi 8
RFIC Validation Reference Architecture
- Simplify, scale, and integrate Wi-Fi test systems with modular DC, analog, digital, and RF instruments on the PXI platform
- Achieve excellent RF performance including best-in-class EVM for Wi-Fi 7 (< -52 dB for 802.11be, 320 MHz, MCS 13) using the PXIe-5842
- Simplify implementation of complex Wi-Fi measurements, such as cross-correlated EVM, dynamic EVM, load-pull, digital predistortion (DPD)/envelope tracking (ET), and more
- Easily configure measurements, visualize results, and analyze data on an intuitive and easy-to-use GUI in the RFIC Test Software
- Quickly sweep parameters, automate characterization, and ensure fast measurement execution
Solution Advantages
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Lower cost of ownership with one test system capable of covering all wireless connectivity standards (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ultra-Wideband)
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Future-proof test systems with the NI PXI-5842 VST, the ability to allow for up to 4 GHz bandwidth, or add frequency up/downconverters for additional spectrum coverage
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Quicker time-to-market with NI RFmx software designed for speed and test optimization enabling fast test times
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Easy bring-up with an intuitive and easy-to-use Soft Front Panel
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Standard-specific signal generation and analysis for all WLAN standards (802.11a/b/g/j/p/n/ac/ax/be/bn)
Simplify Complex Dynamic EVM Measurements for Wi-Fi Front Ends
Unified Validation of Wi-Fi PA/FEMs
NI’s software defined approach to validation combined with the RF performance of NI PXI VSTs makes for an extremely powerful combination in Wi-Fi PA/FEM validation. Watch how the easy and intuitive workflows make complex validation and characterization processes much simpler.
Build Your Solution with the NI Ecosystem
NI offers a variety of solution integration options customized to your application-specific requirements. You can use your own internal integration teams for full system control or leverage the expertise of NI and our worldwide NI Partner Network to obtain a turnkey solution.
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Learn more about the NI RFFE Validation Reference Architecture for Wi-Fi PA/FEM validation
See the latest trends in RFFE validation, with a streamlined process for evaluating RFFE design from interactive setups to automated tests. Learn about integration strategies for solutions that enhance testing infrastructure, offering a comprehensive overview of effective RFFE validation in modern telecommunications.