T/R module testing

Your T/R module testing challenges

The main challenge in the characterization of individual components and complete AESA antennas is performing reproducible, calibrated measurements with the highest accuracy, both in the receive and the transmit paths. This may also include property determination over a wide temperature range.

A robust testing approach is needed to ensure the reliability and performance of modern radars equipped with T/R modules under all operational conditions. This leads to the concept of test coverage, which is a measure of how much of a device’s total functionality is measured and quantified. Improving test coverage is an ideal use-case for measurement process automation, which usually includes integrating different measurement instruments and components into a PC-controlled system running software that can sequence tests and comparing test results against nominal values and storing results for further analysis.

The latest generation of evolved T/R modules are the heart of a high-performance modern phased array radar, and their testing necessitates advanced over-the-air (OTA) measurement capabilities in shielded anechoic chambers, including the ability to conduct modulated RF measurements. Additional measurements include those for power and signal integrity.

Advanced T/R module test solutions

Rohde & Schwarz provides core technology to enable customers and integrators to implement flexible, high-performance T/R module test solutions. A possible OTA test setup for T/R modules consists of a test instrumentation rack, a device-under-test (DUT) interface rack and a shielded chamber.

Rohde & Schwarz supplies complete test systems as well as shielded chambers in various sizes. We work with industry leading manufacturers and integrators who provide specific DUT test domain knowledge. We support integration with industry-standard application software and application programming interfaces, streamlining operations and improving test system efficiency.

Test solutions from Rohde & Schwarz include the following devices and features:

• The modulated test signals required for testing the receive path are generated by the R&S®SMW200A vector signal generator. This allows arbitrarily complex and realistic test scenarios to be created. The characteristics of the transmit path can be measured with the R&S®FSW vector signal analyzer.
• The performance and signal integrity of a SerDes interfaces can be effectively measured with the R&S®RTP oscilloscope, coupled with high-speed active differential probes such as the R&S®RT-ZD40. Signal integrity issues can be visualized using an eye-diagram or analyzed with the R&S®RTP-K12 jitter analysis option. Additionally, the oscilloscope can be used for amplitude and timing measurements. Protocol decoding, dependent on the coding standard used by the SerDes interface, serves as an effective tool to verify data transmission accuracy.
• In the field of high-frequency electronics testing, system-level calibration is key to ensuring that measurements are both repeatable and verifiable. This is particularly critical in scenarios where the R&S®OSP switching subsystem is employed to effectively route signals from the T/R module to the test instrumentation. The R&S®ZNA vector network analyzer offers accuracy and flexibility for end-to-end calibration of the numerous signal paths. RF & microwave power sensors are used to improve test setup accuracy.
• Measurement automation is enabled by utilizing a Standard Command for Programmable Instruments (SCPI) recorder, which is built into Rohde & Schwarz measurement devices. This enables the recording and playback of standardized commands, reducing manual intervention and potential for error.
• Leveraging cloud-based RF test solutions offers valuable insights into potential bottlenecks within the testing process and enables a more thorough analysis of test data results. This approach aligns with best practices for maintaining high standards of measurement accuracy and reliability.