Interleaved Multi-RAT Transceiver Testing Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing wireless devices with multiple radio access technologies (RATs) is time-consuming and costly due to sequential testing, which leads to underutilization of test equipment and increased capital costs when trying to reduce test time.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that interleaves the testing of different RATs using alternating time intervals for data packet signals and control instructions, allowing concurrent testing and configuration of multiple RATs, thereby maximizing test equipment utilization and reducing overall test time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If sequential testing of multiple RATs is used, then test equipment cost is reduced, but overall test time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating between different RATs in a structured sequence. The testing system switches between first and second RATs in periodic intervals, allowing the tester to cycle through multiple radio access technologies systematically. This periodic testing approach enables comprehensive coverage of multiple RATs while maintaining efficient test equipment utilization and reducing overall test time compared to sequential testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by configuring the DUT to alternate between different RATs before actual testing begins. The device under test is pre-configured to switch between first and second RATs in anticipation of the testing sequence. This preliminary setup allows the testing system to efficiently transition between RATs without idle time, reducing overall test duration while maintaining cost-effective equipment usage.
2Loss of time
If multiple testers are used concurrently to reduce per-device test time, then test time is reduced by 80%, but capital equipment costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single tester that can perform multiple functions across different RATs. The testing system is configured to test both first and second RATs using the same physical equipment, eliminating the need for separate dedicated testers for each RAT. This multi-functional approach reduces capital equipment costs while maintaining reduced per-device test times through efficient single-device multitasking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the tester adaptable and flexible in its operation. The testing system dynamically switches between different RATs and testing configurations based on the DUT's current state. This dynamic capability allows a single tester to efficiently handle multiple RATs without requiring parallel dedicated testers, thereby reducing equipment costs while maintaining fast test times through intelligent resource allocation and switching.
3Device complexity
If a single VSA and VSG with switching subsystem is used, then test equipment cost is reduced, but test time reduction is limited due to inability to capture signals from multiple DUTs concurrently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the DUT prepare and configure itself in advance of actual signal capture. The device under test performs preliminary setup and configuration before the VSA needs to capture signals, enabling the single VSA to efficiently sequence signal capture operations. This preliminary preparation allows the switching subsystem to manage signal routing effectively, maximizing throughput while maintaining cost-effective equipment usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by ensuring that the VSA and switching subsystem operate continuously without idle time. The system maintains continuous signal capture and processing by seamlessly transitioning between different DUTs and RATs. This continuous operation maximizes the productivity of the single VSA/VSG configuration, achieving high test throughput despite the reduced hardware complexity and lower equipment costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of using tester data packet signals and control instructions for testing a radio frequency (RF) data packet signal transceiver device under test (DUT) capable of communicating using multiple radio access technologies (RATs) having one or more mutually distinct signal characteristics. During mutually alternating time intervals, selected ones of which are substantially contemporaneous, tester data packet signals and control instructions are used for concurrent testing and configuration for testing, respectively, of multiple RATs of the DUT.