Keysight Technologies generates fast and accurate EVM measurements and accelerates 5G component design characterization.

Keysight Technologies announced on the 6th that it has released its first midrange vector network analyzer (VNA), the Keysight E5081A ENA-X.

As the demand for ultra-low latency data rates steadily increases, next-generation wireless communication systems must operate at higher radio frequencies (RF). To ensure that 5G NR (New Radio) transmitters meet these operational requirements, RF engineers must thoroughly test the design and performance of components such as power amplifiers (PAs).

Obtaining PA measurements under realistic conditions can be time-consuming because it requires multiple pieces of equipment and test setups. Additionally, a high-performance VNA must be used to obtain the accurate EVM measurements necessary to certify PA compliance with 5G standards.

Keysight ENA-X provides RF engineers with an intermediate network analyzer platform featuring integrated modulation distortion analysis that delivers full vector correction to the device-under-the-surface (DUT) plane. Featuring a unique architecture, the ENA-X can perform multiple measurements with a single connection, simplifying test setup and increasing repeatability and test speed.

Keysight ENA-X is an integrated solution that provides an integrated upconverter, direct receiver connection, and modulation distortion analysis software, and can characterize RF amplifier performance according to complex modulation schemes in high-power systems operating at up to 44 GHz.

It also provides a single test setup that requires only a single calibration, which operates with a single connection and can accelerate PA characterization for 5G transmitters in the 5G NR FR1 and FR2 frequency bands by up to 50%.

Designed based on Keysight's metrology expertise, patented custom monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) provide the lowest residual EVM on the market, along with the highest measurement accuracy and easily repeatable results.

Joe Rickert, Vice President and General Manager of Keysight’s Center for High Frequency Measurement Excellence, explained, “The new midrange E5081A ENA-X VNA solution, combined with powerful modulation distortion analysis software previously available only on the highest-performance PNA series network analyzers, is suitable for characterizing power amplifiers for 5G transmitters,” adding, “Thanks to the custom-built MMIC, the ENA-X provides the highest output power, dynamic range, and system stability required by RF engineers without masking the performance of the power amplifier under test.”