Rohde & Schwarz is set to unveil its 3GPP MCX device conformance test suite on the R&S CMX500 4G/5G one-box tester at Critical Communications World (CCW) 2024.The test suite includes comprehensive third generation partnership project (3GPP) radio frequency (RF), functional, protocol and application tests for rugged mission-critical services (MCX) devices. In addition, the R&S CMA180 radio test set for testing public mobile radio (PMR) and land mobile radio (LMR) devices will be on display, highlighting the company’s cutting-edge solutions for device research and development (R&D) and conformance validation for MCX device manufacturers.
TETRA or P25 legacy narrowband technologies no longer meet the connectivity needs of today’s first responders. Proper device and mobile network testing ease the migration to 3GPP-compliant broadband MCX. At CCW 2024, Rohde & Schwarz will demonstrate its integrated solutions that enable reliable operation of mission-critical devices, networks and services. Solutions that enhance situational awareness for law enforcement and protection round out the exhibited portfolio.
The migration to either 3GPP-compliant isolated secure networks or commercial 4G/5G-based cellular networks with embedded mission-critical capabilities must be planned and executed very carefully to maintain existing narrowband capabilities. Narrowband networks will still be in use in parallel for another decade, providing features such as PTT to their users. The 3GPP-defined internal architecture for MCX services includes amongst others user/group management, policy and charging enforcement, signalling control, and cross-network interworking. Applying appropriate and advanced test and measurement techniques during this ongoing migration process is essential to ensure reliable operation of critical communications for first responders and to save lives in crisis scenarios.
Rohde & Schwarz will also present its know-how in active and passive mobile network testing methods and solutions that cover the entire MCX network lifecycle, from coverage and interference measurements to specific MCX service testing like mission critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) and MCVideo quality. Visitors will be able to experience a unique MCX smartphone-based test solution implemented on the QualiPoc. This solution can be used in any MCX environment to assess the performance of MCX private and group calls, including measurement of 3GPP-specified MCX key performance indicators (KPIs). Another test solution based on the R&S ROMES4 drive test software and the R&S TSMA6B mobile network scanner provides a universal tool for network engineering and optimisation.
The Rohde & Schwarz portfolio also includes efficient solutions for stationary, transportable, and portable spectrum monitoring systems that provide comprehensive spectrum awareness. At CCW 2024, Rohde & Schwarz will be exhibiting the R&S PR200, a tried-and-tested portable monitoring receiver for interference hunting in and around specific areas and facilities. It is an indispensable tool for regulatory authorities, mobile network operators, police forces, military units, and other security organisations.
In addition, R&S NESTOR is a turnkey mobile communications solution for situational awareness, law enforcement and protection of critical infrastructure. It is a software platform used in conjunction with R&S TSMA6B mobile network scanners and QualiPoc smartphones to analyse cellular networks via the air interface. Public authorities and security organisations, for example, use it to detect, identify, locate, and analyse deployed cellular technologies and occupied bands and channels.
Rohde & Schwarz will present its comprehensive portfolio of solutions for mission-critical communications at CCW 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 14 to 16, 2024, at booth M20. In addition, Rohde & Schwarz experts will share their insights at the Focus Forum on testing and certification of broadband devices on May 15, 2024.
