Towards Smarter Over-The-Air Characterization of 5G Antenna Systems

Purpose and goal

The antenna group at Chalmers and Ericsson have identified a strategically relevant OTA focus area. This is to develop new technologies and concepts for testing of base stations, equipped with integrated active antenna systems, from the system performance perspective. The focus is on both in-band and out-of-band emissions of radiated power over the air interface in 4G / 5G systems. We have formulated a new project to develop new measurement techniques, performance measures and limitations. This will be essential to the successful commercialization of Ericsson products.

Expected results and effects

The project results include the formulation of a strategically relevant research project for Ericsson and the presentation of standardization contributions in 3GPP and publications in relevant conferences. The effect of renewed expertise and new business opportunities in the area of testing and verification of telecom equipment antenna may show itself in the relatively near future. OTA has the potential to become a major industry in Sweden with bearing on the whole electronics industry. A continuing project will facilitate the successful commercialization of Ericsson products.

Planned approach and implementation

The project is based on the fact that the performance of integrated antennas can´t be determined by traditional conducted measurement methods, where the communication to the test equipment is established using cables. However, base stations equipped with integrated antennas are possible to test using methods that generate and capture signals over the air communication interface. In the project, we have identified the parameters that are essential to ensure satisfactory performance of Ericsson products in terms of wanted and unwanted emissions of radiated power.