Keithley offers MIMO RF test with capabilities for RF signal generators and analyzers

Keithley Instruments Inc. in Cleveland is introducing a 4X4 multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) RF test system for research and production testing of next-generation RF communications equipment. Keithley’s MIMO RF test system consists of its Model 2920 vector signal generator (VSG) and Model 2820 vector signal analyzer (VSA), Model 2895 MIMO synchronization unit, and MIMO signal analysis software. The device offers support for 4X4 MIMO applications; support for commercial standards such as cellular, WiMAX, and WLAN; +/-1 nanosecond signal sampler synchronization; less then 1 nanosecond peak-to-peak signal sampler jitter; and less than 1 degree of peak-to-peak RF-carrier phase jitter. The Keithley system can support MIMO measurements on demanding signals such as 802.11n 40 MHz WLAN MIMO and 802.16e Wave 2 Mobile WiMAX. MIMO is a growing technology that uses several radios for transmitting and receiving data. In RF communication devices, it increases data throughput rates without the need for additional bandwidth. An RF signal generator and an RF signal analyzer that support expanded frequency ranges to 6 GHz form the core of Keithley’s MIMO RF test solution. The Model 2920 vector signal generator is available in two configurations with maximum frequencies of 4 GHz or 6 GHz and can generate signals as low as 10 MHz. An optional 80 MHz arbitrary waveform generator bandwidth with 100 megasamples of waveform memory enables users to test commercial communications signals such as GSM, EDGE, W-CDMA, cdma2000, SISO WLAN, and 802.11n 40 MHz WLAN MIMO. The Model 2820 and Model 2920 can be set up in 2-, 3-, or 4-channel configurations. These dual-purpose instruments can be used either as standalone instruments or as part of a 4X4 MIMO test system, so users don’t need to dedicate individual signal analyzer or signal generator units to a task. For more information, contact Keithley online at www.keithley.com.