Beamforming Array Path Calibration for Accurate Base Station Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beam forming tests for base stations suffer from distortion in beam patterns due to uncalibrated RF circuits and cables connecting the base station and test equipment, leading to inaccurate compensation of amplitude and phase characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for calibrating the array path of beam forming test equipment that involves receiving a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) signal, detecting and analyzing it, measuring path characteristics, calculating compensation coefficients, and applying these coefficients to compensate for distortion, using components like down-converters, A/D converters, and complex number multipliers to correct the signal at the baseband or RF end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If RF circuits and cables are connected between base station and test equipment for beam forming testing, then beam forming test can be performed, but beam pattern distortion occurs due to uncalibrated amplitude and phase characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary calibration action by measuring the path characteristics of RF circuits and cables before conducting beam forming tests. The calibration process pre-determines compensation coefficients that are stored and applied during subsequent tests, eliminating beam pattern distortion caused by uncalibrated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the actual path characteristics through test signals, comparing them with ideal characteristics, and using the measured compensation coefficients to correct the beam forming output. This closed-loop approach ensures accurate beam patterns during testing.
2Measurement precision
If network analyzer is used to measure and compensate RF components on each array antenna path, then compensation can be achieved, but accuracy deteriorates due to cable detachment and reattachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs calibration measurements in advance when cables are properly connected, storing the compensation coefficients for later use. This eliminates the need to detach and reattach cables during testing, maintaining measurement consistency and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the path characteristics through calibration measurements, storing compensation coefficients that replicate the ideal beam forming behavior. This digital model allows accurate compensation without physical reconnection of cables.
3Manufacturing precision
If calibration process is performed for path through RU and antenna, then beam forming characteristics can be matched, but array path distortion remains due to excluded RF circuits and cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the calibration process into two parts: first calibrating the path through RU and antenna, then separately calibrating the RF circuits and cables connecting to test equipment. This segmented approach ensures all components contributing to array path distortion are accounted for.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal calibration solution that works for both standard beam forming operations and test equipment connections. The compensation coefficients account for all path variations, making the calibration applicable to multiple scenarios including different test equipment configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for calibrating an array path of a beam forming test equipment for a base station, includes enabling a beam forming-related interlocking test of a base station and a test equipment by compensating for distortion of the beam forming characteristics of the base station incidentally caused by the connection between the base station and the test equipment by using a specific signal transmitted from the base station, when test equipment such as a channel simulator is used to test beam forming of a base station.