Shared Signal Source for Concurrent Multi-RAT Transceiver Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless device test systems are limited in concurrent testing of devices using multiple radio access technologies (RATs) due to the need for sophisticated testers and the loss of test continuity and integrity when switching between different RATs, restricting testing to devices using the same RAT.
Innovation Solution
A shared packet data signal source provides sequential signal segments with distinct characteristics and timing parameters for multiple DUTs, using signal routing circuitry and control circuitry to synchronize and route these segments to respective DUTs, allowing concurrent testing across various RATs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple DUTs are tested concurrently using multiple test systems, then testing productivity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple test systems into a single shared test system that can serve multiple DUTs concurrently. The signal generator and analyzer are shared resources that dynamically allocate test signals to different DUTs based on timing parameters, eliminating the need for separate test systems for each device while maintaining concurrent testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The test system is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple RATs (Radio Access Technologies) and various signal characteristics through a single platform. The system can adapt its signal generation and analysis capabilities to match different wireless standards, making one test system capable of performing the work of multiple specialized systems.
2Device complexity
If a single test waveform generator is used for multiple RATs, then device complexity is reduced, but test continuity and integrity are lost when switching between RATs
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and storing timing parameters for different RATs before actual testing begins. These timing parameters are used to synchronize signal generation and switching in advance, ensuring that when the system transitions between different RATs, the signal characteristics and timing are already prepared to maintain continuity and integrity without interruption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If test equipment is made more sophisticated to handle varied RATs, then adaptability is improved, but equipment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test system employs dynamic signal generation and analysis capabilities that can adapt in real-time to different RAT requirements. The system dynamically adjusts signal parameters, timing characteristics, and analysis methods based on the currently tested RAT, allowing a single piece of equipment to handle multiple wireless standards without requiring separate dedicated systems for each technology.
Data Source
AI summary
System and method for using a shared packet data signal source to test multiple packet data signal transceiver devices under test (DUTs) capable of communicating using multiple radio access technologies (RATs). The signal source provides a packet data signal that includes a plurality of sequential signal segments having respective signal timing parameters and mutually distinct signal characteristics in accordance with the RATs. Based upon the signal timing parameters, at least a portion of each signal segment is routed to a respective one of multiple signal connections for conveyance to a corresponding DUT.