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News from Rohde & SchwarzITU-conformant monitoring receiverSoftware forspectrum monitoring systemsRecording, processing and replayingMPEG2 transport streams2000/II167

Number 167 2000/II Volume 40Radiomonitoring over wide frequency rangesat high scan ratesThe new Monitoring Receiver ESMB handlesthe frequency range from 9 kHz to 3 GHzand has excellent electrical characteristicsand comprehensive functions – all that combinedin an incredibly compact instrument(page 4).Photo 43565ArticlesChristian GottlobWerner Rohde;Alexander WörnerChristoph Balz;Mathias Leutiger; Ernst PolzPatrick KolligsITU-conformant Monitoring Receiver ESMB............................................... 4Incredibly compact – and high-end into the bargainDTV Recorder Generator DVRGRecording, processing and replaying MPEG2 transport streams .................. 8ATSC Test Receiver EFAAll measurement functions for North-American digital TV standard..............11Digital Radiocommunication Test Set CRTxFlexible test platform for general packet radio service (GPRS).................... 14SoftwareJohannes MeidertJörg PfitznerHeinz-Peter Olbrück;Jörg ZorenböhmerGH127 AllAudioDigital recording, distribution and managementof audio signals in radiomonitoring systems ........................................... 16Spectrum Monitoring Software ARGUS 4.0New software generation for spectrum monitoring systems........................ 18Electronic spare-parts catalogShort clicking is better than long leafing ..................................................21Application notesRobert ObertreisNoise Measurement Software FS-K3Noise test system with FSE, FSIQ or FSP analyzers................................... 232 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

FIG 1 A strong duo: new Monitoring ReceiverESMB (top) and Digital Direction Finder DDF190.The two extremely compact and powerful instrumentsperform practically all tasks in signal detection,monitoring and measurementPhoto 43456/1

ArticlesITU-conformant Monitoring Receiver ESMBIncredibly compact –and high-end into the bargainThere was a time when ITU-conformant test receivers were by no means lightweightand their high power consumption was an additional drawback in many anapplication. Not so the new Monitoring Receiver ESMB (FIG 1): a wide frequencyrange from 9 kHz to 3 GHz, excellent electrical characteristics, comprehensivefunctions – all combined in an incredibly compact and lightweight instrument –make it ideal for mobile and stationary use. It is intended as a monitoring receiverfor all tasks in compliance with ITU recommendations and for use in the entirefield of radiomonitoring.2a2bFIGs 2a to 2dAll measurements inline with ITU recommendations.2a: bandwidth;2b to 2d: modulationFIG 3RF panoramic displaywith DIGI ScanoptionITU-conformant measurementsESMB can perform all measurementsin line with ITU recommendations, suchas frequency and frequency offset, fieldstrength, modulation parameters, bandwidthand frequency occupancy (withPC) (FIGs 2a to 2d). For bandwidthmeasurement both XdB and the moreuniversal β% method can be adopted.A special benefit is that parameters canbe measured simultaneously, so timerequirements are cut to a minimum. Thetime needed for this kind of procedurecan otherwise be quite bothersomewhen a whole series of measurementshas to be carried out.2c2dBefore it actually starts to measure signals,important functions in ESMB supporttheir detection, acquisition, assessmentand classification. These includespecial features like frequency scan,memory scan, IF panorama or RF spectrumwith the DIGI Scan option (FIG 3),the latter often being the only means ofdetecting signals. This option featuresscan rates up to 800 MHz/s, in otherwords about 10000 channels/s with150 kHz bandwidth.Lean digital3ESMB uses highly advanced digitalsignal processing. Digital technologyis not only employed for the measurementsmentioned above but for theentire IF processing. Such a large vari-News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 5

ArticlesDesigned for mobile useLow weight and compact dimensionsmean that ESMB can easily be usedin a large variety of applications. In astand-alone role it is able to perform allmonitoring and measurement tasks withoutPC support (FIG 4). The clear-cutfront panel makes for ease of operation,allowing the user to familiarize with aminimum of effort without time-consumingstudy of a manual. The proven operatingphilosophy of Miniport ReceiverEB200 [1] was largely adopted here,an extra benefit because the two instrumentsare often used together. Easilyunderstood menus allow simple adaptationof ESMB to different tasks, reducingoperator error to a minimum.Used in a mobile role, not only ESMB‘scompact size but also its low powerconsumption is a special benefit, particularlyfor the vehicle‘s battery.Communicative within a systemControlled from a PC on its modern Ethernetinterface, ESMB demonstrates allits functionality. Rohde&Schwarz offersMeasurement Software ArgusMon [2]for this purpose (see also page 18).With the aid of this software, all functionscan be controlled, results quicklyand clearly displayed and, if wished,data recorded, the volume only beinglimited by the capacity of the storagemedium. Despite its versatility,ArgusMon is quite simple to handle.The user interfaces shown in FIGs 5and 6 are only a fraction of the manypossibilities.An RS-232-C interface can optionallybe fitted instead of the Ethernet interface.This interface is sufficient forsimple remote-control applications withoutexacting speed requirements.Use of ESMB in conjunction with DigitalDirection Finder DDF190 from Rohde&Schwarz [3, 4] produces a small-scalesystem that is almost unparalleled interms of functionality and compactness,and that is able to perform practicallyall tasks in signal detection, monitoringand measurement (FIG 1). SuitableArgus drivers are of course availablefor combination with DF equipment.Thanks to its modern interfacesand standardized command syntax,ESMB is easily integrated into largemonitoring systems. Use in unattendedmeasurement stations is no problemeither, since all results including thedata for spectrum display are availableat the interface.Premium in reliability andserviceabilityThe low power consumption and thewell-devised thermal concept ensurehigh reliability even where space is ata premium. Should any fault occur, theintelligent test concept (BITE) is a valuableaid in troubleshooting. Out-of-toleranceconditions are signalled acousticallyand optically and the defectivemodule is immediately identified.Replacement is quite straightforward,reducing downtime to a minimum.Condensed data of ESMBFrequency rangeMeasurement functionsDemodulationFiltersScan functionsInterfacesPower consumptionWeightDimensions (WxHxD)Reader service card 167/01Designed for the futureSimple downloading of new softwareand additional free slots for hardwareextensions provide sufficient reservecapacity for subsequent upgrades.With its future-oriented technology,ESMB gives the user a tool that canalways be kept right up to the stateof the art.Christian GottlobREFERENCES[1] Klenner, Günther: Miniport Receiver EB200and Handheld Directional Antenna HE200– Radiolocation from 10 kHz to 3 GHz nowwith portable equipment. News from Rohde&Schwarz (1997) No. 156, pp 4–6[2] Fokken, Theodor: Miniport Receiver EB200/Compact Receiver ESMC – Mini-receivers:remote control lends weight to network role.News from Rohde&Schwarz (1999) No.165, pp 16–17[3] Demmel, Franz; Wille, Raimund: VHF-UHFDirection Finder DDF190 – Digital directionfinding from 20 MHz to 3000 MHz toITU guidelines. News from Rohde&Schwarz(1996) No. 152, pp 30–32[4] Demmel, Franz; Unselt, Ulrich: Digital DirectionFinder DDF190 – Now from 0.5 MHzthrough 3000 MHz. News from Rohde&Schwarz (2000) No. 166, pp 16–179 kHz to 3 GHzfrequency, offset, field strength,modulation parameters, bandwidth,frequency occupancy with PCAM, FM, CW, LSB, USB, ISB, PM, IQ18 (150 Hz to 300 kHz),shape factor

ArticlesDTV Recorder Generator DVRGRecording, processing and replayingMPEG2 transport streamsFrom the very beginning of digital television, Rohde&Schwarz has demonstratedits competence in terms of MPEG2 with MPEG2 Generator DVG and MPEG2Measurement Decoder DVMD [1; 2]. This instrument duo with its unparalleledfeatures is today found virtually wherever MPEG2 transport streams appear andhave to be processed. Now a new member has been added to the family – theDVRG generator platform (FIG 1). This unit is quite unique, generating the entirespectrum of digital TV signals while occupying minimum space. In addition torecording and replaying MPEG2 transport streams, DVRG can optionally processuncompressed SDI video streams of 270 Mbit/s. Additional software packagesopen up a wide range of applications.Newcomer with many specialfeaturesDVRG offers outstanding characteristicsright in its basic version. Featuring compactdesign of only two height units,DVRG offers up to 36 Gbytes of storagecapacity for recording and replayingMPEG2 transport streams.The supplied transport-stream library containspredefined signals for many applicationsand test cases. This library, familiarfrom DVG and much appreciatedFIG 1 Only two units in height yet easy to operatevia the front panel: DTV Recorder GeneratorDVRGPhoto 43401/38 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

ArticlesFIG 3Windows userinterface for operatingDVRG as workstationsubsequently analyzed offline withother tools such as MPEG2 MeasurementDecoder DVMD or Digital VideoQuality Analyzer DVQ [4].MonitoringDVRG is suitable also in monitoringapplications. Triggered recordingallows in-depth analysis of error statesthat occur only rarely. The trigger signalis supplied by MPEG2 Realtime MonitorDVRM [5] or by DVQ for example(FIG 2). DVRG can be set to startrecording some time before the triggerevent so that the cause of an error statecan easily be traced. In a workstationconfiguration, the Stream Explorer andQuality Explorer software options canbe installed on these units to producea complete, compact test station.makes it possible to replay signals onboth units.In addition to the low-wear operationof DVRG, which makes it ideal forcontinuous service, its sturdy designalso makes it an interesting propositionfor a production environment. A stan-dard 19-inch enclosure and Ethernetinterface (100BaseT) simplify integrationof DVRG into test systems.If an EUT outputs MPEG2 transportstreams or SDI video streams, thesecan be recorded by DVRG for testor quality-assurance purposes andCompact, powerful and extremely flexible– these properties make DVRG ahighly versatile MPEG2 test device.Werner Rohde; Alexander WörnerREFERENCES[1] Fischbacher, Michael; Weigold, Harald:MPEG2 Generator DVG and MPEG2 MeasurementDecoder DVMD – Test equipmentfor digital TV in line with MPEG2. Newsfrom Rohde&Schwarz (1996) No. 152,pp 20–23[2] Weigold, Harald: MPEG2 measurementgenerators and decoders – Let‘s go west:ATSC ready for takeoff. News from Rohde&Schwarz (1999) No. 164, pp 20–21[3] Fischbacher, Michael; Rohde, Werner:PC software for MPEG2 dream teamDVG/DVMD. News from Rohde&Schwarz(1997) No. 154, p 29[4] Wörner, Alexander: Digital Video QualityAnalyzer DVG – Getting the picture on picturequality. News from Rohde&Schwarz(1999) No. 163, pp 4–7[5] Fischbacher, Michael: MPEG2 RealtimeMonitor DVRM – Digital broadcast networks:operation secured. News fromRohde&Schwarz (1999) No. 165,pp 14–15Condensed data of DVRGSignal inputs and outputsDVB TS ASI (active loop-through input)DVB TS SPI/LVDSISDI (ITU 601/SMPTE 259E)Transport stream to ISO/IEC 1-13818Packet lengths ATSC: 188/208 bytes (selectable)DVB: 188/204 bytes (selectable)Sequence lengthendless or limited by hard disk sizeSignal settransport-stream library withapprox. 80 sequencesData memory18 Gbytes or 2 x 18 GbytesOperating systemMicrosoft Windows Embedded NTRemote-control interfacesEthernet 100BaseT, RS-232-CReader service card 167/0210 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

ArticlesATSC Test Receiver EFAAll measurement functions forNorth-American digital TV standardFollowing North America‘s decision in favour of ATSC/VSB (Advanced TelevisionSystems Committee) for digital TV broadcasting, Rohde & Schwarz started to developthe necessary instrumentation and transmitters (see overview on page 13). Afterthe successful launch of test receivers for analog TV signals and European digitalTV standards, a new member for ATSC has now joined the EFA family. Compact indesign and with extensive automatic test functionality, this receiver (FIG 1) is idealfor applications in the development and production of transmitter modulators aswell as acceptance testing of large transmitter systems and monitoring the qualityof digital TV signals.FIG 1 ATSC Test Receiver EFA joins EFAinstrument family, adding measurements indigital TV systems to North-American ATSC/VSBstandardFull ATSC coverage by 2002Key features of the North-Americandigital TV standard are the useof MPEG2 (Moving Pictures ExpertsGroup) to compress video and audiosignals, and 8VSB modulation (seebox, pp 12–13).A decisive factor for fast, nationwideintroduction of digital TV in the UnitedStates was the allocation of additional6 MHz channels for the parallel transmissionof digital TV programs by allthe approximately 1600 broadcast stations.This made it possible to operatePhoto 43482/1simultaneously on digital and analogchannels during the transition period.Another milestone was the definitionof a tight time frame by the legislation,compelling stations to start broadcastingdigital TV signals in good time. Thefirst digital programs were transmittedon schedule in November 1998. Todate (May 2000) some 120 stationsare on air with digital programs, providingcoverage for about 60% of the US-American population. By late 2002 allcommercial TV stations are to follow.It is planned to shut down all analogchannels by the end of 2006.EFA – characteristicsATSC Test Receiver EFA, fully compatiblewith the ATSC Doc. A/53 standard,receives, demodulates, decodes andanalyzes VSB (vestigial sideband) signals.All major parameters for demodulatingthe receive signal can beselected automatically or manually:• 8VSB modulation,• trellis decoder (code rate 2/3),• variable symbol rate for specialmodulator tests and lab analysis,• Reed-Solomon error correction207/187/10,• filter bandwidth 6 MHz, optionally2 MHz and 8 MHz.The operating principle of the newreceiver is largely identical with thatof the other receivers of the EFA family[*] except for standard-specific functions.Singular versatilityThe new test receiver features a multitudeof innovative measurement functionsright from the basic version, allowingcomprehensive, in-depth signalanalysis. In addition to measurementof general parameters such as bit errorratio (BER) (FIG 2), more thoroughanalysis includes:• I/Q constellation diagrams withselectable number of symbols tobe represented,• eye aperture and modulation error(MER/EVM) versus time,News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 11

Articles• calculation of transmission parameterslike pilot carrier,• amplitude spectrum of userchannel,• linearity analysis from histogramof amplitude distribution,• complex channel transmissionfunction,• received echo signals (ghost pattern).Any failures and degradations are visiblestraight away from the constellationdiagram (FIG 3). Effects of interestcan be located more precisely by varyingthe number of symbols represented.A particularly effective method hereis presentation of eye aperture as afunction of time. Eye apertures plusdecision thresholds are displayed ona largely user-selectable scale revealing,for example, periodic transmissionerrors or individual interferersat a glance and allowing immediateidentification. Trend analyses, too, arepossible with this method.of its rapid data acquisition, the testreceiver is an ideal choice not onlyin R&D but also in production monitoring,where high measurement speedis called for.EFA-ATSC as monitoringreceiverMonitoring receivers permanently monitorthe major parameters of broadcastsignals directly at the transmitting station(FIG 6). EFA-ATSC is tailor-madefor this application. Six parameterswith separately selectable alarm thresholdscan be configured for monitoring.Particularly worth emphasizing isBER monitoring ahead of and after thevarious error-protection blocks, allowingearly detection of any problems.Detected transmission errors are savedin the test receiver together with thedate and time in error reports comprisingup to 1000 entries. In addition, ittriggers an acoustic alarm.8VSB – ATSC modulation for terrestrialbroadcasting of digital TV signalsThe ATSC standard employs 8VSB (8-level trelliscodedvestigial sideband) discrete amplitude modulation.Here the incoming data stream at thetransmitter is applied to a data randomizer, Reed-Solomon encoder and data interleaver, divided intopackets of two bits and, because of the 2/3 coderate, coded to produce data packets of three bitsin a Viterbi convolutional encoder (trellis encoder).Each group of three bits (symbol) represents aFIG 2FIG 3FIG 4FIG 5FIG 6Captions to FIGs 2 through 6Measurement menu: all important data visibleat a glanceConstellation diagram, here representing10000 symbolsSpectral analysis of 8VSB signal by meansof FFTDisplay of calculated 8VSB transmissionparameters in corresponding measurementmenuSimultaneous analysis/measurement of keyparameters – ideal for monitoring tasksThe integrated spectral analysis functionenables simple examination of thesignal type and its spectrum. You cansee immediately, for example, whetherthere is a marked frequency offset, orif the pilot-carrier level matches thespecification (FIG 4). An optional filterwith 8 MHz channel bandwidth coversspectral components outside the 6 MHzuser channel while effectively suppressingmore distant components.Use as relay receiverFor this special application, EFA issimply optimized for reception at akeystroke. This allows reception evenunder adverse operating conditions.The user is also able to configure thebandwidths of the main amplitude- andphase-control loops.Christoph Balz;Mathias Leutiger; Ernst PolzRealtime signal analysisThe powerful digital signal processingof EFA provides fast and in-depth analysisof 8VSB signals (FIG 5). Analysisis simultaneous with and independentof demodulation and decoding, so theMPEG transport stream is permanentlyavailable for vision and sound reproduction.Thanks to this realtime analysiscapability, the large number of measuredvalues necessary for the complexcalculation and display processes areproduced fast for subsequent mathematical-statisticalprocessing. Because12 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)Further articles on Test Receivers EFA on pages32 and 37 of this issue.23

Photo 42 592FIG 1 Model 30 of TV Test Transmitter SFQgenerates signals complying with the North-American TV standard ATSCFIG 2 DVRM – specialist for blanket monitoringof broadcast networksFIG 1MPEG2 Measurement Generator DVG andMPEG2 Measurement Decoder DVMD withoptional software now also support the NorthAmerican ATSC standardPhoto 43 410/3REFERENCES[1] Fischbacher, Michael; Rohde, Werner:PC software for MPEG2 dream teamDVG/DVMD. News from Rohde & Schwarz(1997) No. 154, p 29[2] Finkenzeller, Richard; Fischbacher, Michael:MPEG2 transport stream analysis in networkedDVB monitoring system usingStream Explorer software. News fromRohde & Schwarz (1998) No. 159,pp 24 – 25Input signals transport stream to ISO/IEC 1-13818Length of transport stream packets 188/204 bytes (DVB), 188/208 bytes (ATSC)Data rates of transport stream0.6 to 54 Mbit/sSignal inputs1 x TS parallel (to DVB-A010),2 x TS-ASI (to DVB-A010) for DVB1 x SMPTE 310 and 1 x TS-ASI for ATSCMeasurements– parameters to ETR290 (adjusted for ATSC)– TS structure monitoring– data rates of overall stream, programs andsubstreams (PID)– monitoring of TS_ID– monitoring of “other_tables” (only DVB)– paradigm condition (only ATSC)– trigger on errorInterfacesRS-232-C, 12 relay contactsFIG 1 Space-saving DVB transmitter for2.5 kW accommodated in a single rackArticlesspecific amplitude level (eight levels). Synchronizationdata (segment sync, field sync) are added tothe coded signal for data recovery in the receiver(error correction, channel equalizer). For carrierrecovery in the receiver, the unmodulated carrieris added to the 8VSB signal as a pilot. To makethe most efficient use of the available bandwidth,only one sideband of the AM-modulated signal istransmitted (vestigial-sideband suppression). Priorto emission, the modulated signal is shaped by aroot-cosine rolloff filter (r = 0.115).4Everything for ATSC from Rohde&SchwarzTV Test Transmitter SFQSFQ goes North American –with digital TV standard ATSCTV Test Transmitter SFQ has proven itself as a platform for the new digital TVmodulation methods introduced in Europe [1]: as a universal test signal sourcein the development, production, quality control and servicing of all componentsemployed in video and audio data transmission. The transmitter generates standardmodulation signals for all the digital methods involved, for terrestrial emission(DVB-T), cable transmission (DVB-C) and transmission via satellite (DVB-S). Thenew model 30 (FIG 1) includes yet another standard: the digital terrestrial TVtransmission standard ATSC recently introduced in North America.All ATSC signals in excellentqualityIn 1996 the Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) selected the TVstandard of the Advanced TelevisionSystems Committee (ATSC) as the newdigital terrestrial TV standard for theUnited States of America. Allocation ofthe frequency ranges was completeda year later. The transition from the50-year-old analog NTSC system tothe new digital transmission standardhas since rapidly taken place.SFQ supplies signals of excellent qualityin full compliance with specificationATSC DOC. A/53 (8VSB) (FIG 2).The standard parameters can be modifiedas required for a given measurementtask. The test data sequencesdelivered by SFQ allow convenientmeasurement of bit error rates at thereceiving equipment. To simulate realtransmission conditions, the quality ofthe RF signal from SFQ can be modifiedand degraded.MPEG2 measurement generators and decodersLet's go west:ATSC ready for takeoffPhoto 42 499/3A special standard complying with national requirements is used in the US forterrestrial broadcasting of digital TV signals: ATSC (Advanced Television SystemsCommittee). Same as the European DVB standard, ATSC is based on MPEG2 codingbut it differs in some essential features. Several countries in South America andAsia are about to adopt this standard. So Rohde & Schwarz has integrated the ATSCstandard in all its measuring instruments concerned.For the last three years Rohde & MPEG2 Measurement Generator DVGSchwarz has been accompanying the is a versatile transport stream signalworldwide introduction of digital TV source especially suited for continuouswith its “dream team” made up of operation. It is able to provide a comprehensiverange of test patternsMPEG2 Measurement GeneratorDVG, MPEG2 Measurement Decoder (bounce, sweep, colorbars, etc), testDVMD [1] and the optional software tones (CCITT.033) and moving picturepackages Stream Combiner and sequences in a seamless loop. ThisStream Explorer [2]. The instruments makes it an ideal instrument for productiontesting of set-top boxes andare now multistandard units and supportthe North American ATSC standardwhich differs from the European sion links. The generator has been re-for testing modulators and transmis-standard in some essential features: vised and upgraded and the followingenhancements have been added: High-resolution formats(480, 720, 1080 lines) ATSC sequences with HDTV video Progressive scanning (60 Hz)and audio elementary streams 6-channel Dolby surround AC-3- (Dolby AC-3)coded audio Faster hardware Other tables Larger memory Data-compressed table contents Expansion of SPI and ASIinterfaces to 208 bytes/packet20 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 164 (1999/IV)MPEG2 signal generatorsand analyzers(News 164)Transmission immune tointerferenceThe ATSC standard employs 8T VSB(eight-level trellis-coded vestigial sideband)amplitude modulation, whichhas eight discrete levels and is immuneto interference. Vestigial sideband filteringof the signal (rolloff characteristic)reduces the bandwidth to the US channelspacing of 6 MHz and makes forminimum symbol interference in thereceiver.News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 166 (2000/I) 13the TS_ID to identify the correct TS, itcontinuously compares its completestructure with a template that definesall programs contained in the TS aswell as the associated services for eachprogram.DVRM integration into networkwidemonitoring systemsAll instrument settings and the polling ofresults are remotely controlled. The suppliedWindows program allows fastconfiguration of DVRM, clearly presentsmeasurement results and the transportstream structure together with the datarates and offers special functions suchas continuous recording of comprehensivemeasurement reports on a storagemedium of the controller. DVRM furthersupports Stream Explorer software,which allows in-depth analysis of thetransport stream [1].Both the control software underWindows and Stream Exploreroffer COM (component object model)and DCOM (distributed COM) softwareinterfaces [2]. This means thatall functions can be made availableWith the aid of the optional softwareStream Combiner DVG-B1, otherexternal elementary streams can alsobe integrated and multiplexed to acontinuous seamless transport streamfor DVG (FIG 2). This function wasenhanced particularly for the use ofDolby AC-3-coded audio and 4:2:2or HDTV video sequences of up to25 Mbit/s. An ATSC setup ensures thatthe program paradigm is adhered toand that all required ATSC tables anddescriptors are added. The comprehensiveeditor enables modification ofATSC tables (STT, MGT, TVCT, CVCT,RRT, EIT, ETT, PIT) and their extensionby other descriptors. The editor alsouses Huffman coding for informationin plain text within the tables. Alsonew is the possibility of including com-TV Test Transmitter SFQ(News 166)to central monitoring software bothlocally (COM) and via a data networklink (DCOM).Apart from comprehensive measuredvalueacquisition via the remote-controlinterface, DVRM offers hardware signallingcapability via relay contacts.Each of the twelve contacts can beassigned one error parameter or anycombination of them. Closed or opencontact signalling of errors is selectable.DVRM thus ensures complete monitoringof complex networks.Michael FischbacherCondensed data of DVRMReader service card 165/04UHF Transmitter Family NV/NH7000Liquid-cooled TV transmitters forterrestrial digital TVRohde & Schwarz is launching a new generation of liquid-cooled UHF transmittersperfectly timed for the startup of regular operation of terrestrial digital TV (DVB-T)by many countries. The compact design facilitates the installation of new DVBtransmitters at existing sites where space normally is very restricted. Thanks tomodular design, transmitter systems for both digital and analog TV can be created,meeting future requirements and featuring high economy and reliability.Latest technology with specialfeaturesThe new water-cooled UHF TransmitterFamily NV/NH7000 in LDMOS(lateral diffused metal oxide silicon)technology meets all requirements ofterrestrial TV standard DVB-T to ETS300744 and those of the familiar PAL,SECAM and NTSC standards by suitableconfiguration of the digital exciter.The family of equipment is dual-soundcompatible to IRT or NICAM and canalso be configured to comply with theAmerican ATSC standard for digitalTV.Transmitters are available for DVB-Tfrom 400 W to 5 kW (seven powerclasses) and for analog TV from 2 kWto 40 kW (five power classes). Theirmain characteristics are:• latest LDMOS technology forpower amplifiers (high gain, highlinearity)• very compact design (low spacerequirements) through liquid cooling• digital equalization (accuratereproducibility of settings)• high redundancy for high availability• low installation outlay• simple swap of modules duringoperationNews from Rohde & Schwarz Number 165 (1999/V) 15Modular not only for outputpowerThe modular transmitters chiefly consistof:• digital exciter• power amplifier with integratedpower supply• transmitter rack (with vision/sounddiplexer for analog TV)The transmitters with maximum outputpower of 2.5 kW for DVB (FIG 1)or 10 kW for analog TV require verylittle space. They are accommodatedin a 630 mm wide rack together withother components such as filters, powercouplers and water distribution system.To produce higher power, a secondrack with amplifiers is simply addedand combined via 3 dB couplers.The transmitters are therefore idealfor setting up new DVB networks atexisting sites where space often isvery restricted. On the one hand, thisreduces the costs for the network operator.On the other, it is also very importantfor the acceptance of the newmedium, because all household roofantennas would have to be realignedif the new system were to be installedat a new site.Despite the compactness of the newtransmitter family all its modules areeasy to access and service. The ampli-News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 165 (1999/V) 11MPEG2 RealtimeMonitor DVRM(News 165)REFERENCES[*] Balz, Christoph; Leutiger, Mathias: DVB-TTest Receiver EFA-T. The test reference: nowfor terrestrial digital TV too. News fromRohde&Schwarz (1999) No. 164, pp4–7Photo 43 392/1UHFTransmitterFamilyNH/NV7000(News 165)5Condensed data of EFA-ATSCFrequency range model 50: 48 MHz to 862 MHzmodel 53: 43 MHz to 1000 MHzmodel 53 withoption EFA-B3: 5 MHz to 1000 MHzInput level range model 50: –77 dBm to +10 dBmmodel 53: –47 dBm to +14 dBmmodel 53 withoption EFA-B3: –77 dBm to +14 dBmBandwidths6/8/2 MHzModulation8VSBSymbol rate2 to 11 Msymbol/sEqualizerauto/freeze/offBER analysisahead of and after Reed-Solomon decoder,ahead of Viterbi decoderMeasurement functionslevel, BER, MER, EVM, SNR, pilot-carrierlevel, pilot-carrier frequency, symbol rateGraphical displaysI/Q constellation, amplitude spectrum,echo signals (ghost pattern), complexchannel transmission function, amplitudedistribution, eye pattern, historyOutput signalsSMPTE 310, MPEG-TS: SPI, ASIOptionsRF preselection (EFA-B3), SAW filter8 MHz/2 MHz (EFA-B13/-B14)Reader service card 167/036News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 13

Photo 43475/1FIG 1 Flexible platform for GPRS test scenarios:Digital Radiocommunication Test Set CRTx andIndustrial Controller PSMDigital Radiocommunication Test Set CRTxFlexible test platform forgeneral packet radio service (GPRS)General packet radio service (GPRS) is the new service of GSM standard Phase2+for packet-oriented data transmission. Compared with existing, line-oriented GSMdata services such as high-speed circuit-switched data (HSCSD) [1], GPRS allowsbetter adaptation to data networks like the Internet and more efficient use ofavailable radio resources while offering the same data transfer rates. RadiocommunicationTest Set CRTx is ready to go for this new data service and, with itsflexible test facilities, provides an excellent platform for GPRS test scenarios.The arrival of GPRS has added multiplecomplexity to the GSM standard, especiallywith regard to the protocol stack.This places stringent demands on theperformance and flexibility of a GPRStest platform, which CRTx meets byhardware and software extensions.To meet elevated performance requirements,CRTx is supported by IndustrialController PSM (FIG 1). The two unitscommunicate on a standard Ethernetlink. The more time-critical, lower protocollayers (physical layer and RLC/MAC) run on CRTx, the higher layers(LLC and SNDCP) on PSM (FIG 2). Thesystem as a whole is operated fromPSM using the Windows NT operatingsystem.GPRS test applications are programmedvia a powerful API, whichallows each protocol layer to bechecked. In addition, a reference implementationof the complete GPRS protocolstack is available for testing GPRS-14 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

Articlesbased applications. RF measurementslike block error rate (BLER) are implementedtoo. As regards multislot operation,CRTx supports a maximum of fourtimeslots uplink and downlink (4+4).The system is consequently suitableboth for applications in the developmentof GPRS systems and conformancetesting of mobile-radio stations.PSM must be equipped with optionB10, comprising the Windows NToperating system, a second networkcard and an Ethernet cable for connectionto CRTx. CRTx, in turn, mustbe fitted with option CRT-B3 (networkcard) for connection to PSM.Phase2+ Operational SoftwareCR02P2P provides full circuit-switchedfunctionality for GSM Phase2+. Partof the software package is installedon CRTx and part on PSM.Software option CRGPRS1 incorporatesfunctionality for the GPRS physicallayer and RLC/MAC layer inthe unacknowledged mode. Softwareoption CRGPRS2 adds acknowledgedmode to the RLC/MAC layer, providedthat software option CRGPRS1is installed.Software option CRGPRS3 comprisesthe higher protocol layers LLC andSNDCP. It is installed on PSM andrequires one of the options CRGPRS1or CRGPRS2 integrated in CRTx.Several packages CRTKGxx are alsoavailable, containing GPRS test casesimplemented according to ETSI specificationGSM11.10-1.Patrick KolligsReader service card 167/04General packet radio service (GPRS)GPRS is a third-generation data serviceset up on mobile-radio networks of thesecond generation (GSM). Data transmissionis packet-switched, not circuitswitchedlike in HSCSD for example.This enables better adaptation to existingdata networks, such as the Internetand its associated services (WWW,e-mail, etc).The short packets comprise a maximumof 1500 octets. Through channel trunking(multislot) of up to eight timeslots, amaximum data rate of 115.2 kbit/s isachieved in full-duplex mode same aswith HSCSD. Since some applicationsrequire a defined, continuous data rate,the user can select between differentservice classes (QoS: quality of service),for which network operators guaranteethe appropriate data throughput. Afterregistration, a permanent virtual linkexists round the clock, which also allowsfaster access to the data network.REFERENCES[1] Segerer, Franz: HSCSD test software forGSM Phase2+ – Measurement softwareand test cases for new, fast GSM data services.News from Rohde&Schwarz (1999)No. 163, pp 28–29[2] GSM 04.64, version 6.7.0, release 1997(ETSI TS 101 351)The major advantage from the pointof view of network operators is themore efficient use of available radioresources. With GPRS, this is achievedchiefly by making use of radio resourcesonly during data transmission. Timeslotsin uplink and downlink can also be splitdynamically among several subscribers.The chief advantage of GPRS whereusers are concerned is the low costcompared with former circuit-switchedFIG 2 Structure of GPRS protocol stack [2]GMM SNDC SMSGMMSNDCSMStransmission since only the actual datavolume transmitted, not the online time,is charged. Simultaneous data andvoice communication is possible too.LLCRLCMACGSM RFMSUmRLCMACGSMRFRelayBSSBSSGPNetworkServiceL1GbLLCBSSGPNetwork ServiceL1SGSNGPRS-based applications can bedivided into two classes: point-to-point(eg home banking, travel booking) andpoint-to-multipoint (eg news, traffic information).The first mobiles supporting GPRS areexpected to become available late thisyear.News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 15

SoftwareGH127 AllAudioDigital recording, distribution and managementof audio signals in radiomonitoring systemsGH127 AllAudio is PC-based software for simultaneous digital recording of audiosignals from up to 16 channels and their distribution via networks. An integrateddatabase for data backup and an export function support management of recordings.An optional intercom makes for easy teamwork.INOUT1OUT2OUT3GH127 AllAudio at a glanceWANLANComp.Comp.Comp.Comp.PlaybackLANWANLANWANWANLANMICIntercomFIFOOutputLANHeadphonesLoudspeakerFIG 1 “Switchingdiagram“ of softwarematrix. Eachcoloured module isavailable severaltimes: inputs (IN,WAN, LAN) samenumber as configuredhardwareinputs. Outputs orplayback windowsare generated andswitched when userselects a live channelor recording• Flexible local audio signaldistribution by software configurationof up to 16 channels• LAN distribution to any numberof workstations by multicast technology• Speech transmission in WAN bycompression from data rates of9600 baud per channel• Local recording of all channelsfor optimum use of resources;central archiving possible• Integrated database, reportfunction and data backup formanagement of recordings• Optional intercom with automaticmuting of audio sources,group call, etcAdvantages through digitizationConventional radiomonitoring systemsuse different analog components toprocess audio signals such as:• switching matrixes,• recorders,• distributors, splitters, amplifiers,• multiplexers,• intercom.All these components can be implementedmuch more flexibly and costefficientlyon a PC by software. GH127AllAudio digitizes all audio signalsources via multichannel sound cardsand can distribute, record, play backand store digitized signals. Possiblesources are the audio outputs of receivers,microphones or IF outputs up toa center frequency of 12.5 kHz (likeVLF-HF Receiver EK896) or digitalaudio signals, eg from Digital MonitoringDirection Finder DDF0xM fromRohde&Schwarz.GH127 AllAudio is ideal for all systemsin which automatic audio signalrecording and distribution as well ascommunication via intercom are to beintegrated. Radiomonitoring and spectrummanagement are typical fields ofapplication.GH127 AllAudio in detailFlexible signal distributionAudio signals are distributed by switchoveror mixing the input channels bysoftware (FIGs 1 and 2). A data bufferwith 60 s capacity is available for eachchannel. The user can play passagesagain by positioning the mouse appropriately.Output is on headphones orsimultaneously by loudspeaker. In addition,signals can be switched exclusivelyto up to three further outputs formore detailed analysis.The available LAN or WAN serves fordistributing the signals between stations.Advanced multicast tech nologylike that in Internet radio is used. Inthis way, signals of interest can beanalyzed simultaneously at all workstations.There is no need for multiplexersor complex cabling.16 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

SoftwareSignals can be compressed for transmissionvia a WAN (router, modems), sospeech signals are transmitted at datarates from 9600 baud per channel.Optional communication viaintercomThrough the optional intercom an operatorcan report the frequency of adetected signal he cannot process toa colleague for example (or to severalcolleagues by a group call). Teamworkthus becomes much simpler.FIG 3Recording database:selectedrecording sessionsconsist of severalfiles in WAV format.Some positions ofrecording sessionare characterizedby bookmarks.Session is playedwhen clicked at correspondingpositionVirtually any capacitySignal recording is on the local PC. Thecapacity of modern hard disks allowscontinuous recording over several daysor even weeks. Audio squelch controland data compression contribute tolong recording times without a userhaving to intervene.Integrated databaseRecordings are administered in an integrateddatabase (FIG 3). The systemautomatically registers data such asrecording time, channel and stationname. Users can identify important passagesin a recording by bookmarks –comments which are stored togetherwith their entry time.Database and recordings can bebacked up on tape and restored.FIG 2 Audio distribution – 2 channels switched for listeningDistribution,localMutingVolumeBackup may delete recordings whilemanagement information in the databaseis maintained on the PC. Theuser can thus see all recordings. Whenaccessing archived recordings he istold on which tape to find them.In touch by remote controlSeveral remote-control possibilities areintegrated:• stations with GH127 can remotelycontrol other workstations withGH127 to start or stop recordings,• monitoring software (eg Rohde&Schwarz RAMON or ARGUS –see page 18 of this issue) canactivate audio output of a receiver,control the volume, etc,BalanceRecording PlaybackBookmark Analysis outputs• switching statuses of outputs canbe queried so that results of analysescan be assigned correctly,• recording of each channel can becontrolled by software, and informationlike time, file name, etc isexported to a controlling applicationfor management in a commondatabase.Easy to get intoThe simple and self-explanatory userinterface (Windows NT), configurableuser groups with different rightsand automatic control of input level arefeatures that make a change from conventionalanalog technology or operationfor inexperienced users a loteasier. And integrated data administrationallows experienced users tomanage their recordings much betterthan before.GH127 AllAudio can be supplied indifferent configurations, eg as softwarewith sound cards for use on PCs oras a completely remote-controllabledigital recorder.Johannes MeidertDistributionnetworkdata buffer (60 s)Reader service card 167/05News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 17

Photo 43336Spectrum Monitoring Software ARGUS 4.0New software generation forspectrum monitoring systemsSpectrum Monitoring System ARGUS-IT (formerly SMSI plus TS9965) [1; 2] isequipped with different software packages for complex radiomonitoring tasks.ArgusMon and ArgusEval, now available in upgraded versions, form the coreof the software.Tried and testedbut still improvedMeasurement Software ArgusMon providesvery different means of measuringelectromagnetic emission in variousmodes according to ITU recommendations.It can be scaled by using modularcomponents: controlling a singledevice (see [3] and page 5, MonitoringReceiver ESMB) is as easy as operatingseveral unattended stations.tions are also considered. The mostimportant modifications compared toversion 3.6 are described in what follows.FIG 1 System visualizer in ArgusMon produces schematic of complete radiomonitoringstationsEvaluation Software ArgusEval allowscomprehensive statistical analysis ofmeasurement results according to ITUrecommendations. In addition, measuredresults, the associated definitionsand statistical evaluations can all bedocumented.Both software packages are now availablein version 4.0. They come withimproved user-friendliness, even betteroriented on the tasks of radiomonitoring.Plus, the latest ITU recommenda-18 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

SoftwareThe most importantmodificationsSystem visualizerThe new system visualizer in ArgusMonproduces the schematic of a selectedradiomonitoring station: antennas,receivers, analyzers, decoders andrecording equipment with all their connectionsare shown in graphical representation(FIG 1). The required connectionsbetween antennas and receiverscan be selected and switched bymouse click. A second mouse click ona device icon opens the interface fromwhich the user can control the deviceand measure with it.Interactive measurement modeThe revised interactive measurementmode (IMM) and the bearing measurementmode (BMM) now ensure directaccess to device settings. This doesaway with bothersome setting throughrange configuration menus. In additionto spectrum and signal analysis,the interactive measurement mode nowalso offers antenna analysis for fastomnidirectional, height and elevationmeasurements (FIG 2).Intermodulation analysisIntermodulation analysis is now integratedinto IMM. The original frequenciescan be found much faster since thenumber of possible frequencies and themaximum order can be limited duringcalculation and the results displayedaccording to probability. Editing thelist of possible original frequencies wasalso extended and simplified.Spectrum modeIn the spectrum mode of IMM it is nowpossible to define alarm conditions. Ifthey are exceeded for example, signalanalysis of the particular frequency canbe started.Bearing measurement modeIn the bearing measurement mode(FIG 3) it is possible to calculate andstore radiolocation results. This requiresthe use of at least two direction finders.Locations can also be performed bythe automatic measurement mode orthe interactive measurement mode andthe results can be stored.Automatic measurement modeIn the automatic measurement mode(FIG 4) scans of transmitter lists can beperformed. Transmitter lists can also beextracted from databases for example.Since the location of a transmitter isoften known, ArgusMon can align rotatableantennas towards the transmitterand then measure.Practice-proven user manualThe new user manual was developedin close cooperation with experiencedcustomers. It explains step by step thecommonest, typical measurement tasksin radiomonitoring and how to solvethem with the ARGUS software packages.Further improvements in brief• Level cannot only be measured indBµV and dBµV/m but now in allother common units• A new graphical window showsfrequency-band occupancy duringa measurement in realtime(FIG 5)• An auxiliary icon bar shows thecurrent location and alignment ofthe test vehicle at a glance if aGPS receiver and compass areconnectedFIG 2 Antenna analysis in interactive measurement modeFIG 3 Bearing measurement modeNews from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 19

SoftwareFIG 4Automatic measurementmode• The newly developed data navigatorin ArgusMon and ArgusEvalallows extremely fast access to definitionfiles and measured results• The time stamp in the measuredresults now also indicates millisecondsto accommodate modernreceivers• The speed of graphics presentationis as much as ten times faster• ArgusEval contains new statisticsfor frequency-band occupancyaccording to a planned ITU recommendation(FIG 6). All statisticscan be generated faster becausethe measured results can be useddirect. Generating the channels isno longer necessaryFIG 5Frequency-bandoccupancy can bevisualized in realtimeduring measurementA big step aheadMany improvements and additions inthe new version make the softwarepackages even easier to operate forfaster turnaround. The self-explanatoryuser interface increases productivitydecisively and takes stress off the operatorin performing the various and complexmeasurementsJörg PfitznerFIG 6Frequency-channelstatistics inArgusEvalReader service card 167/06REFERENCES[1] Seidl, Wolf: Spectrum monitoring the ITUway. News from Rohde&Schwarz (1997)No. 153, pp 26–27[2] Pfitzner, Jörg: Radiomonitoring SystemTS9965 – Complete coverage up to18 GHz. News from Rohde&Schwarz(1994) No. 146, pp 22–25[3] Fokken, Theodor: Mini-receivers – Remotecontrol lends weight to network role. Newsfrom Rohde&Schwarz (1999) No. 165,pp 6–1720 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

SoftwareElectronic spare-parts catalogShort clicking is better thanlong leafingPeople in spare-parts logistics and field service are often under considerablepressure, especially when their customers‘ expensive machinery or systems areshut down due to a defect. A large number of different models, versions andvariants as well as a constantly changing product range aggravate this situation,and often result in the wrong thing being ordered. One solution to this problemis electronic spare-parts catalogs (SPCs), with integrated search engines to speedup the tracing of the right spare part. They reduce the effort involved in updatingspare-parts documentation, simplify the ordering process, and lots more.get where you want. You familiarizequickly and intuitively with a unit orsystem.Electronic SPCs reduce the documentationcarried by someone in the fieldservice to a single CD-ROM. Evenelectronic SPCs cannot always be upto-date,which is where an amendmentsservice helps, providing the latestinformation and changes via diskette,CD-ROM or straight from the Internetfor daily actuality.FIG 1 Hierarchical structure of complex unitsand systems helps to fid spare parts fastWhat is an SPC?Based on techniques proven on theInternet, the service center for technicaldocumentation of the Rohde&SchwarzCologne Plant [1] develops electronicspare-parts catalogs that make logisticsa lot easier. Searching through listsas well as order operations becomemuch more convenient. Thanks to thetechniques used, later integration intocomplex electronic documentation systems[2] is possible. A free Internetbrowser, available on practically everyPC, is used as display software.In an SPC, parts lists and graphics suchas exploded-view drawings are combinedelectronically. Parts lists storedin ASCII format can be integrated assimply as graphical presentations andphotographs.Systematic structure for fastsearchingAn SPC has a user-friendly hierarchy,like the corresponding hardware structureresulting from design or integration(FIG 1). Individual startup pages, lists ofcontents, product groups or equipmentfamily overviews help you to quicklySPC functionsPresentation and navigation in InternetbrowserUse of standard software (eg MicrosoftInternet Explorer) simplifies intuitiveworking, because you find the familiarMicrosoft Windows environment. AnSPC makes use of the standard functions(forward and backward navigation,bookmarking by favourites, etc),and other functions can be added byJava scripts. Very many configurationsare possible, so a customer‘s own corporateidentity can be created. Furtherfunctions or links to other applicationsare easily integrated.Sophisticated search functionsSearching for individual parts isextremely simple. This can be doneby selection from graphical presentationsand through designations or partnumbers (FIG 2). Full-text search is alsopossible (FIG 3).News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 21

SoftwareAutomatic contents generationOrdering and logistics information aswell as graphics are, for the most part,automatically imported from existingdatabases or CAD systems. Operatingan amendments service will generallyrequire very little manual effort.Integrated ordering systemAn ordering process is initiated forthe particular spare parts or productsthrough the ordering system. Couplingto the manufacturer‘s goods managementsystem is possible via an Internetlink.Notepad and printer functionsThe producer and user can file a separatenote for each spare part via thenotepad function. So feedback can beobtained from the field on an onlinelink.Graphical views in CGM format canbe printed out by the integrated viewer.Parts lists can be printed straight fromthe browser.FIG 2 User-friendly combination of picture andtext informationSPC – ideal for experiencedservice providersThe functions outlined here are justexamples, and can be expanded ina whole variety of ways. The servicecenter for technical documentation atthe Rohde&Schwarz Cologne Plantassists users in devising tailor-madeconcepts for the implementation of electronicdocumentation and catalogingof spare parts.Heinz-Peter Olbrück;Jörg ZorenböhmerREFERENCES[1] Zorenböhmer, Jörg: Technical documentationby high-tech methods. News fromRohde&Schwarz (1999) No. 162, pp16–17[2] Olbrück, Heinz-Peter: Database-supportedinformation management. News fromRohde&Schwarz (2000) No. 166, pp20–21Reader service card 167/07FIG 3 Wide range of functions in familiarsoftware environment, eg full-text research inMicrosoft Internet Explorer22 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

Application notesNoise Measurement Software FS-K3Noise test system withFSE, FSIQ or FSP analyzersThe noise figure and the gain of a DUT can be measured highly accurately withthe new Noise Measurement Software FS-K3 and a signal or spectrum analyzerof the FSE, FSIQ or FSP family. The result is a noise test system that is substantiallysuperior to a conventional test setup.High-grade noise test systemsSpectrum Analyzers FSE and FSP andSignal Analyzers FSIQ from Rohde&Schwarz featuring high sensitivityand level accuracy are – togetherwith switchable and calibrated noisesources – ideal for performing automaticmeasurements of noise figureand gain. Noise Measurement SoftwareFS-K3 invests these high-gradeanalyzers with characteristics that areotherwise only obtainable in specialpurposenoise test systems. The followingparameters can be measured:• noise figure in dB,• noise temperature in Kelvin,• gain in dB.The software runs on a commercial PCwith the Microsoft Windows 3.1/95/98/NT operating systems. AnIEEE/IEC-625-1 interface is requiredfor measurement. In the case of analyzersincluding the controller function(FSE-B15) or FSIQ, the application canrun in the particular unit without theneed for a PC.Settings for the measurements are performedvia the software and can bestored on a data medium. Results canbe exported in the form of WMF, DATor TXT files for further processing byother programs.Users who already have the predecessorversion FSE-K3 will receive a freeupgrade and can take advantage ofthe extended functionality.Noise figure and gain of mixersA frequent problem when measuringthe noise figure and gain of mixersis that the broadband noise of commercialnoise sources is not only convertedinto the IF at the required inputfrequency but also at the image frequency.The noise power, additionallyconverted at the image frequency,causes a measurement error that canvary by proportion.One way of avoiding this error is touse a filter with which the input noiseat the image frequency is strongly suppressedand only the noise componentat the desired receive frequency isconsidered. But often, suitable filterswill not be available and first have tobe provided. That is why this solutionis too time-consuming and inflexiblefor use in labs.FS-K3 offers a way around this problem.The difference between receiveand image frequency in the conversionlosses of a mixer can be entered inthe software. A correction factor forthe measured noise figure or gain isthen calculated as a function of thisdifference, which will be called imagerejection. The FIG illustrates the relationshipbetween the correction factor andimage rejection.To obtain the equivalent noise figure fora sideband, the correction factor forthe given suppression has to be addedto the measured value. For gain youproceed in a similar way, but subtractthe correction factor from the measuredvalue. The suppression can be determinedby measuring the conversionloss of the DUT at the receive andimage frequency, eg with NetworkAnalyzer ZVR.Robert ObertreisReader service card 167/08Correction factor fornoise figure andgain at imagefrequencyCorrection factor [dB]3.53.02.52.01.51.00.50.00 5 10 15 20Image rejection [dB]News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 23

Application notesUniversal Radio Communication Tester CMU200GSM power measurement –versatile, fast and accurateMeasurement speed and accuracy – these are the key criteria in production becausethey determine test times and thus throughput. Universal Radio CommunicationTester CMU200 [*] (FIG 1) optimizes the two parameters for each application. Howthis rapid tester helps you to cut down on measurement times is demonstratedhere by the example of power measurements on GSM mobiles.Photo 43238/10FIG 1 Universal Radio Communication TesterCMU200 optimally matches measurementrequirements in GSM mobile-phone productionOptimized in every caseGSM specifications state how muchpower a mobile may emit as a functionof power control level (PCL), togetherwith the time characteristic a mobilemust comply with (FIG 2). The latteragain depends on PCL. CMU200 performsall the measurements required forthis – fast and extremely accurately.Power versus frequencyCMU200 allows GSM-conformantmeasurement of the power characteristicin all frequency bands:• GSM400 with option CMU-K20• GSM900 with option CMU-K21• GSM1800 with option CMU-K22• GSM1900 with option CMU-K23CMU200 records several bursts (1 to2000) of a mobile and from these findsthe minimum, maximum and averagepower characteristic. In manual operation,detailed analysis is simplified by azoom function, markers and auxiliarylines. To allow immediate verificationof compliance with GSM specifications,the tester automatically positions thepower versus time template over themeasured burst and detects and marksviolations of limits and specifications(FIG 2). The template is automaticallyadapted to the particular power controllevel. The user can define templateFIG 2CMU200 automaticallypositionspower versus timetemplate over measuredpower characteristicand checkscompliance withspecified values.Tolerance violationsare marked by failindicators andmeasured valueshighlighted in redand tolerance limits to match mobilespecificrequirements. In short, withCMU200 you can check at a glancewhether the power characteristic of amobile is go or nogo.The pass/fail indicators are availablealso in remote control. So, on theremote-control computer, you can determineimmediately, without elaborateanalysis, whether or not a mobile conformsto GSM specifications. Plus, you24 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

Application notescan read out the complete power characteristic– minimum, maximum andaverage – or selected parts of it. Inthe latter case, CMU200 also detectsthe minimum, maximum and averagepower values of the selected part. Thisspecial feature allows time-optimizedrecording of especially critical partsof the power characteristic and makesit very easy to trace power ripple ofthe useful part.In the production of GSM mobilephones, peak power measurement issufficient in many cases. It allows,for example, very fast adjustment ofa mobile, followed only by a compliancecheck of the power versustime template. CMU200 comprisespower meters of different bandwidthsto perform such peak power measurements.FIG 4Hopping in frequency,CMU200changes powerfrom highestthrough to lowestpower control level(PCL). All PCLs aremeasured in one goSACCH power change is sent to mobileMultiframe(approx. 500 ms)Multi-measurementIEEE-buscommand isexecutedPower versus slotBut this is by no means all this fastnew tester has to offer. Another importantmeasurement is power versus slot(FIG 3), which is of interest in particularin testing multislot mobile phones.Here CMU200 measures the averagepower of eight successive timeslots inrealtime. It is not possible to carry outGSM-conformant power measurementand template verification in such a shorttime, so the tester only evaluates partof the power ramp and from this calculatesthe average power. The trainingsequence is not determined in thismeasurement, nor is the power versustime template checked. Experience hasshown, however, that results obtainedin this way are usually sufficient in GSMmobile-phone production.Power versus PCLWhen measuring power versus PCL,CMU200 shows unbeatable performance,ie time economies. In no morethan two or three seconds, it determinesthe power of a mobile phoneat all power control levels on three differentGSM channels. Using conventionalmethods (channel and powerchange followed by measurement ofpower versus time), this would takemore than 30 seconds. Hopping infrequency, CMU200 changes powerfrom the highest through to the lowestMultiframe(approx. 500 ms)PCL 5Idle multiframe isinserted whilemobile is waitingfor execution ofcommand13 framesPCL (FIG 4) and detects the powerin realtime by the same method asin measurement of power versus slot.The power measured on three differentchannels is output in table form foreach PCL (FIG 5). In doing this, thetester automatically takes into accountthe PCLs supported by the mobile.CMU200 also incorporates sophisticatedselftest functions, which aredescribed on the next two pages.Rudolf SchindlmeierLITERATUR[*] Mittermaier, Werner; Schmitz, Walter:Universal Radio Communication TesterCMU200 – On the fast lane into the mobileradio future. News from Rohde&Schwarz(1999) No. 165, pp 4–7Reader service card 167/09Combined withhoppingConfigurablechannels A, B, C15 steps of 13 frames: approx. 900 msPCL 19FIG 3 Power versus slot measurement determines power in all eighttimeslots of a frame – an interesting function for multislot mobilesFIG 5 CMU200 measures power through all PCLs of mobile on threedifferent GSM channels in just two or three secondsNews from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 25

Application notesDigital Radio Communication Tester CMU200Selftesting CMU200Modern measuring instruments are not only expected to be fast and accurate, theuser also wants high reliability and above all long calibration intervals. Shouldany repair ever become necessary, accurate fault diagnosis helps to keep servicingtimes to a minimum and makes for increased instrument availability. UniversalRadio Communication Tester CMU200 consequently integrates elaborate selftestfacilities allowing fast checking of its basic functions.Extensive selftests as early asproductionCMU200 selftest functions are extensivelyused during its production. Thefirst selftest is carried out after assemblyand interconnection of all the unit‘smodules. In this way possible faults aredetected before the instrument is subjectedto a five-day burn-in at temperaturesvarying between 5°C and 45°C.During this time a continuous selftest isrun in CMU200. Any faults detectedare logged in a file. This reveals bothnon-recurrent faults and those appearingat certain temperatures. Such aprocedure detects faults at the earliestpossible stage, so that only good unitsare subjected to further checks andfinal testing, thus considerably reducingmeasurement time and costs.Menu-guided test runsThe selftest menu is called with theMENU SELECT key on the CMU200front panel (examples are shown inFIGs 1 to 3). Then you select the BASE/Maintenance function group with thespinwheel and confirm with ENTER.The selftest menu (Maintenance/Dyn.Test) opens and you can choose theparticular test with the spinwheel afterpressing the SELECT softkey.Detailed reportThe selected selftest is started by pressingTEST and confirming with ON. Youcan cancel a selftest at any time bypressing OFF. At the end of the selftest,a report is displayed in which you canscroll up and down with the spinwheelafter pressing the REPORT softkey. Anyfault that may have occurred is thuseasily located and remedied fast byreplacing the module concerned. Normally,of course, no faults will bedetected in the selftest, showing thatyour CMU200 is working perfectly –this is ensured alone by early diagnosisin production.Roland MahrTo find out just how fast CMU200 can measurethe power of GSM mobiles, look at pages24–25Reader service card 167/10An extra benefit for the userCMU200 selftest functions offer theuser a convenient way of checkingbasic instrument functions and thusreliably excluding faults. This is important,for example, in the production ofmobiles, where the user needs to besure that his measuring equipment isoperating properly.FIG 1Example: selectionof selftest functionAt Rohde&Schwarz service centers,the selftest functions are used in incominginspection of instruments returned.The tests supply detailed informationabout faulty modules, which enablesfast repair, ie replacement. Customersbenefit from short repair times becausetheir instruments are soon availablefor use again.26 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

Application notesModule tests(Any tolerance violations are markedin red)FE Selftest RF FRONTEND. Outputof defined supply voltages and logicswitching voltages, limit values andcurrent measured value for each voltage.REF Selftest REFERENCE BOARD.Output of defined tuning and amplitudevoltages of PLLs at different frequencies,output of supply voltagesand module temperature, limit valuesand current measured value for eachvoltage.DIG Selftest DIGITAL BOARD. Outputof defined supply voltages andfrequency-proportional voltages ofclock signals, limit values and currentmeasured value for each voltage.RXTX1 Selftest RXTX BOARD1. Outputof defined supply voltages, tuningand amplitude voltages of PLLs of oscillators,tuning voltages of harmonic filters,module temperatures, limit valuesand current measured value for eachvoltage.Combined testsCMU200 selftestSystem Selftest All modules are testedonce in consecutive order. Test results(PASSED or FAILED) and the fault inquestion are indicated.Internal RF LOOP Selftest The frequenciesand levels of the RF path aretested once at connectors RF1 and RF2using the TX generator and the selectiveRX power meter with internal RFcoupling. All frequencies and levels areoutput and any limit violations markedin red.Continuous Selftest Continuous testof system selftest and internal RFLOOP selftest. This test was developedspecially for the burn-in cycleand is also very helpful in findingfaults occurring rarely or sporadically.Test results (PASSED or FAILED) andthe fault in question are indicated.Any faults found are logged in a speciallycreated file (CST.ERR) togetherwith the date and time.1–>4/3–>2 RF LOOP The frequenciesand levels of the RF pathare tested once at connectorsRF1–>RF4IN and RF3OUT–>RF2 viaspecial external N coax cables(included in CMU Service Kit CMU-Z3)using the TX generator and the selectiveRX power meter.FIG 2 Example: REF selftestFIG 3 Example: internal RF loop testNews from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 27

Application notesSoftware for mobile-radio conformance test systemsConvenient parameter sets instead oftime-consuming, low-level programmingConformance test systems from Rohde&Schwarz for mobile radio support allmajor standards such as GSM900/1800/1900, DECT, TETRA, W-CDMA andBluetooth. Hundreds of test cases based on the particular regulations have alreadybeen implemented. But the low-level interface used for programming is much tootime-consuming for users wanting to modify test cases or design their own. Toallow users to concentrate on their tasks, Rohde&Schwarz developed test typesdescribed by parameter sets that very much simplify complex procedures.Why complicated …… if there is a simpler way• its dynamic behaviour (special testsequence),• the measurement technique (howthe measurement is conducted),• processing and display of results.Example:transmitter measurementsConventional development of testcases involves exact coding of thetest regulation, creating a programthat is no longer changed once validated.Modern high-level languages(eg C), which are very flexible andthus suitable for all cases, are usedfor programming. But for users whowant to modify supplied tests or createtheir own, these low-level interfacesare relatively complicated and timeconsuming.So there is big demand forfurther functionalities beyond validatedtest cases, because many users wantto:• vary test routines without any problems,• perform qualitative tests in anearly development phase of theDUTs,• analyze test results with powerfultools,• make optimum use of expensivehardware.Such requirements can only be metby high-performance test systems thatprovide the measurement competencein optimum and transparent form andflexibly cover the range between onebuttontesters and very versatile testsystems.The Rohde&Schwarz solution to theserequirements takes the form of abstract,complete test types matched to mobileradioneeds. The user can vary thesetest types in any way imaginablethanks to their transparent parameters.One parameter set describes a testcase that can be completely executed(FIG 1).The following test types are currentlyavailable depending on the test-systemfamily: transceiver, transmitter, receiver,complex time and special DUT reportingmeasurements. They are definedafter abstraction of all test cases to beimplemented (possibly for all mobileradiostandards) with the aim of obtainingan optimum between the totalnumber of test types and the numberof parameters to be configured (anddisplayed). Such a test type is characterizedby:• the mobile-radio network to beconfigured (eg characteristics ofthe useful channel),• test conditions (regarding DUT/environment),ParameterTest case 1TransceiverTest case 2TransceiverThe test type “transmitter measurements“determines the transmitter quality ofthe DUT. It defines the network andenvironmental conditions. Especiallyinteresting is the response of the DUTas a function of:• transmit level and frequency,• receive level,• interfering signals,• supply voltage,• temperature and vibration,• position during antenna measurements.By combining different parameters,special features of the DUT can betested or a series of measurements carriedout to find associations that mayreveal design problems. The convenientgraphical user interface supportsthe user in the creation of test cases(FIG 2).The transmitter measurements test typegiven as an example (FIG 3) determines:Test typetransceiverGraphical user interfaceTest typereceiverTest typetransmitterTest type…FIG 1Parameter setdescribes completeexecutable test caseTest case 12TransceiverTest case 29TransceiverTest typetransceiverApplication layerTest typereceiverTest typetransmitterTest type…28 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

• phase and frequency errors,• power as a function of time(for mobile-radio standards withTDMA),• modulation parameters (future).For result analysis, it displays the following(FIG 4):• phase and frequency error asmaximum and average value,• average power of transmit signal,• burst form.FIG 2Convenient graphicaluser interface:list of all test stepsto be performedwith editor in foregroundUsers can freely select the above-mentionedparameters. They can use conformancetests already supplied byRohde&Schwarz (normally samplingtests and thus a small subset of the completetest range) and modify a copy ofthem. Creating new test cases withinthe given test types is also very simple.Preset defaults help and support the userin the first steps.This powerful open interface placeshigh demands on the system software,since it must be able to offer functions(measurement, stimulus and compensationmethods) to handle this variety offunctionalities and implement them correctlyfor the complex test system. This isa real challenge but Rohde&Schwarz isbacked up by many years of experiencein all fields of mobile-radio measurements.FIG 3Example of RF testtype for transmittermeasurementApplication software is supplied togetherwith the test cases and combines highgrademeasuring instruments for a varietyof uses. Users can fully concentrateon the measurement task itself and theoptimization of DUTs – from developmentthrough to conformance testing.Detlef WieseReader service card 167/11FIG 4Overview of testresults for successfulanalysisNews from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 29

Application notesTV Test Transmitter SFQBit-error-rate measurement onset-top boxesBit error rate (BER) can be measured at different points on set-top boxes for digitaltelevision. A BER instrument must be able to accept and evaluate data in serialor parallel form or as the payload of an MPEG2 transport stream. This is noproblem with TV Test Transmitter SFQ (FIG 1) and its BER measurement option:while the necessary signals are generated at the right places in the signal flow,BER is measured at the same time. Together with an optional noise generatorand fading simulator, SFQ is also able to simulate the interference occurring inreal-life transmissions in a reproducible way.of 2 x 10 – 4 before the Reed-Solomondecoder. White Gaussian noise isadded to the useful signal and BERis measured before the Reed-Solomondecoder at different noise levels (C/Nsettings). The deviation of the measuredfrom the theoretical curve isthen determined at the QEF point toobtain the equivalent noise degradation(END), which is an importantreceiver parameter.Photo 42592/2FIG 1 TV Test Transmitter SFQ produces highlyprecise, standard test signals that can be variedand generated with predefined errors to determinethe performance of products at their operatinglimitsNo need for special transmissiontestersReproducible measurement of BERunder defined conditions is an informativeand important measurement whenyou want to assess the quality of digitaltransmission methods and the componentsinvolved. TV Test Transmitter SFQ[*] features comprehensive BER capability:it evaluates data from receivers,set-top boxes or demodulator chips inserial form as data and clock, or inparallel form as a PRBS sequence, oras the payload of an MPEG2 transportstream. No extra digital transmissiontester is necessary. Signal generationand evaluation can be fully remotecontrolled.Quasi errorfreeIn digital television to DVB specifications,measurement of the quasierrorfree (QEF) point at a definedreceive level has proven to be especiallyimportant. QEF means a BERFIG 3Permanent displayof measured BERWhat was previously only possible witha special configuration is now done bySFQ quite simply: BER measured directin an MPEG2 transport stream. For thispurpose SFQ provides a NULL PRBSPACKET signal before the FEC (forwarderror correction) in the coder in which apseudo-random bit sequence (PRBS) ispacketed as the payload in an MPEG2transport stream.Example: set-top boxThe set-top box demodulates anddecodes the RF signal generated by30 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

Application notesInternally generated MPEG2 transport stream (NULL PRBS PACKET)Header4 bytesPayload (= PRBS)184 bytesHeader4 bytesPayload (= PRBS)184 bytesTV Test Transmitter SFQDUT: set-top boxInternal MPEG2transport streamwith payload = PRBSChannel coding+ modulatorRFRF +noiseTunerDemodulator+ decoderMPEG2decoderPRBSgeneratorNoiseClock +dataClock +dataCommoninterfaceBERmeasurementClock +data (serial)MPEG2 transport stream (parallel)AdaptercardCI TSFIG 2Principle of BERmeasurement on settopboxesHeader4 bytesPayload (= PRBS)184 bytesHeader4 bytesDemodulated and decoded MPEG2 transport stream with bit errorsPayload (= PRBS)184 bytesBit errorSFQ (FIG 2). The received MPEG2transport stream is available at itscommon interface. An adapter cardis available as a recommended extrafor this standard interface so thatthe MPEG2 transport stream can beoutput, converted in level and thesignal then applied to the parallelinput (TS PARALLEL AUX) of SFQ. ForBER measurement, SFQ eliminates theheader from the MPEG2 transportstream and evaluates bit errors in thepayload.The BER measurement hardware isaccommodated in the DVB-T module ofSFQ. The BER measurement softwareoption is independent of this module,however, and works with transportstreams of any modulation format. Thebit error rate currently being measuredis shown in a line of the display (FIG 3).The user can thus vary the C/N ratioand see the measured bit error rate atthe same time.Franz-Josef ZimmermannREFERENCES[*] Kretschmer, Erhard; Zimmermann, Franz-Josef: Digital test signals for the televisionfuture. News from Rohde&Schwarz (1997)No. 153, pp 14–16Reader service card 167/12News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 31

Application notesDVB-T Test Receiver EFA-TInnovative measurement functions forterrestrial digital TVDVB-T Test Receiver EFA-T (FIG 1) features a multitude of measurement functions forthe complex characteristics of OFDM signals, thus helping to locate transmissionchannel problems. Some of these innovative methods are already described indetail in [1]. A number of new features now allow classification and analysisof DVB-T signal quality.the range of values obtained (FIG 2).Group delay can now be determinedby means of a simple conversion functionof EFA-T.Polar plot in complex planeFIG 1 DVB-T Test Receiver EFA-T – now withenhanced functionality for terrestrial digital TVOFDM modulationDVB-T employs OFDM (orthogonalfrequency-division multiplex) modulationin accordance with standardETS300744 [2]. Depending on thetransmission mode, 1705 or 6817mutually orthogonal carriers are sentsimultaneously in a transmission channel(6 MHz, 7 MHz or 8 MHzband width). Each single carrier is4QAM, 16QAM or 64QAM modulated.At exactly defined intervals,individual carriers, called pilots, areemitted unmodulated with 0° or 180°phase angle, depending on the carriernumber, and at power boosted bya factor of 16/9. These pilots allowdirect assessment of the quality ofthe transmission channel (linear distortion).Linear distortionPhoto 43310/6EFA-T calculates the theoretical,expected phase values of the pilots.At the same time, the actual phasevalues and amplitudes of the receivedpilots are determined. The quotients ofthe theoretical to actual values are ameasure of linear distortion in a transmissionchannel at a specific frequency.All values of the pilots together givethe channel transmission function. Thespecial point about this method is thatall calculations are complex (ie withreal and imaginary components), yieldingcomplex results. So EFA-T outputsnot only the amplitude response ofa transmission channel but also itsphase response. The frequency axis isfreely selectable, and the amplitude/phase axis automatically adjusts toThe conditions prevailing in a transmissionchannel can be assessed at aglance by representing the complexvalues of pilots in the complex plane.While this representation is not referencedto frequency, it offers straightforwardphase and amplitude informationin a single diagram (FIG 3).Channel impulse responseThe channel transmission function andthe channel impulse response arelinked to each other via the Fouriertransform. EFA-T performs an inverseFourier transform (IFFT) to determinethe channel impulse response, whosemain signal (at t = 0) and echoes aregraphically displayed (FIG 4). Thismeasurement is performed with veryhigh precision, so the zoom functionof the receiver is particularly valuablein this case, allowing highly detailedpresentation of results.This measurement is used on the onehand to show the channel impulseresponse, caused for example by reflectionsfrom buildings, mountains andother obstacles. But it also serves formonitoring synchronization in singlefrequencynetworks (SFNs). The SFNtechnique allows network operators32 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

Application notesto operate all transmitters at the samefrequency for broadcasting a DVB-Tsignal from several sites. This requireshighly precise time synchronizationof the different transmitters however.To verify synchronization, EFA-T canpresent channel impulse response asa function of both time and distance(conversion to kilometers or miles).Amplitude distribution ofnonlinear distortionsDVB-T signals displayed on an oscilloscopecannot be distinguished fromGaussian noise. These signals areknown for their very high crest factor.Monitoring the amplitude distribution ofthese signals is particularly importantfor the transmitter operator for tworeasons, which should be carefullyweighed up against each other. Onthe one hand, (nonlinear) limitationof the transmitted signals increasesspurious emissions because of intermodulationbetween the OFDM carriers,so adjacent TV channels maybe affected. For this reason, a highcrest factor of the transmitted signalis aimed at. On the other hand, toohigh a crest factor in conjunction witheffective use of the available transmitterpower can considerably reduce thelifetime of transmitter output stages.For this reason, precisely specifiedlimitation is chosen, ie reduced crestfactor.FIG 2 Linear distortion in transmission channel(here due to strong fading), top: amplitudefrequency response, bottom: phase frequencyresponse; frequency axis marked with carriernumber k of OFDM signalFIG 3 Linear distortion as polar plot; realcomponent represented along long diagonal,imaginary component along short diagonalFIG 4 Channel impulse response; usefulsignal at t = 0; post-echo with –10 dB at t =100 µs; pre-echo with –15 dB at t = –50 µs.Signal is generated by DVB-T Test TransmitterSFQ fitted with fading simulator optionFIG 5 Amplitude distribution of DVB-T transmitter.Theoretical (ideal) distribution is shownby dotted lines. Limiting effect of power amplifieris clearly discernible (red arrows)You can see at a glance if and how thesignal is limited in amplitude.Summary: reference classEFA-T offers further functions notdescribed here, such as spectrumana lysis (FFT) and history. So it isno wonder that the test receiver hasrapidly become a reference in theclass of realtime instruments. All functionsand graphical displays are ofcourse avail able also via the remotecontrolinterface. Great ease of operationand extremely fast measurementcycles round off the comprehensiveand innovative functionality of EFA-T.Christoph Balz234FIG 5 illustrates the amplitude distributionof a DVB-T transmitter, showing therelative frequency of the amplitudesin a 1 dB amplitude window. The rmsvalue of the transmitted signal is usedas the basis to which all other valuesare referred. Noteworthy is the veryhigh inherent crest factor of more than15 dB of EFA-T, which offers a comfortablemargin for this type of measurement.Since the theoretical amplitude distributioncharacteristic can be exactly calculatedwith DVB-T, it is included in thediagram (dotted lines above columns).REFERENCES[1] Balz, Christoph; Leutiger, Mathias: DVB-TTest Receiver EFA-T – The test reference:now for terrestrial digital TV too. Newsfrom Rohde&Schwarz (1999) No. 164,pp 4–7[2] Digital systems for television, sound anddata services. Framing structure, channelcoding and modulation for digital terrestrialtelevision. ETS300744, European TelecommunicationsStandards Institute, ETSIReader service card 167/135News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 33

Panorama64 kbit modem for multifunctional mobile radiosSoftware enhancement of functionsfor future requirementsThe newly developed radio equipment families from Rohde&Schwarz, eg Series4400 [1], are set up with hardware and software modules on a uniform platform.This principle ensures across-the-board use and radio-system standardizationwith all the accompanying potential for low cost of ownership. The universalplatform can be adapted to future requirements by software and hardwareextensions to the basic unit, eg with the 64 kbit high-performance modem forradio data transmission with high bandwidth efficiency.Modem implemented by softwareThe new 64 kbit modem is entirelyimplemented as software on one ofthe digital signal processors of theradio. This allows future extensionsor matching to special applicationsthrough a simple software upgrade.The new method makes considerablybetter use of scarce frequency bandsthan conventional solutions. Encryptionof communication is just as straightforwardas changing to other communicationsstandards, eg from ISDNthrough TCP/IP LAN links to mobileradionetworks.must for the military as well as governmentauthorities and organizationswith security missions such as policeforces, fire fighters and border patrols.In addition, it is ideal for mobile dataacquisitionand information systems,FIG 1Radio data by softwaremodem showshow: flexible DFnetworks with datarates of 64 kbit/sfor bearing andcontrol dataportable control units as well as remoteaccess applications. The box belowillustrates how the modem meets thespecial requirements encountered inmobile use.RouterCommunikationserverLAN DF workstationsThe new modem has vast potential:stills, video sequences and fast databasequeries are now also possibleduring mobile use. That makes it aMobile radio data must meet special requirementsIn contrast to fixed transmit and receiveequipment, radio data units for mobile useface additional requirements. Fading is ageneral problem in mobile radio. It canbe time- and frequency-selective; multipathfading in particular causes problems whentransmitting data via mobile-radio links.The new data modem offers significantadvantages by using OFDM (orthogonalfrequency-diversity modulation). Here thedata stream is split into parallel bit streamsand spread over several carriers in thebaseband. In addition to the modulated carriers,pilot tones (sinusoidal) are integratedin the spectrum for channel estimation andsynchronization.To enable the baseband signal with up to24 kHz bandwidth to be transmitted in standardizedfrequency grids (eg 25 kHz), linearconversion to the channel frequency is performedby modulation similar to SSB. Sincethe data rate is split up among a largenumber of carriers, symbol duration can beselected large enough to minimize fadingeffects and intersymbol interference.To make communication resistant to interference,the various QAM (quadratureamplitude modulation, q ≤64) signal statesare trellis-coded. Trellis-coded modulation(TCM) is a combination of encodingand modulation technique that yields animprovement (coding gain and shapinggain) of almost 6 dB compared to equivalentQAM without trellis coding.34 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

PanoramaRadio DF networks are a good exampleof remote-controlled applications.A central communication server thatpro cesses the data is connected todetached direction finders via radiomodems (FIG 1) that can transmitremote-control information plus IF spectraor audio signals thanks to their highdata rate.Use of the radio modem in conjunctionwith broadband data transmissionmedia such as satellites or DABtransmitters opens up completely newprospects. DAB, originally developedfor digital radio, is basically suitablefor transmitting data of any kind (FIG2). Interactive multimedia applicationsusing DAB have asymmetrical throughput.So a query for data on the Internetcan use the narrowband path,whereas the usually vast amount ofFIG 2The Rohde&Schwarz productrange offers all componentsfor pointto-pointcommunicationfrom a singlesource: variousradio equipmentfamilies, DAB andDVB transmittersand IT productPostMan [2]TransceiverDABdata is returned through the broadbandmedium. This guarantees theextremely efficient utilization of theavailable resources.Ulrich OttoReader service card 167/14Back channelDownlinkTransceiverIntranetDABREFERENCES[1] Fraebel, Michael; Vielhuber, Robert: Software-basedradios for professional use.News from Rohde&Schwarz (2000) No.166, pp 8–9[2] Kneidel, Thomas: When the PostMan ringson Internet. News from Rohde&Schwarz(1997) No. 153, pp 28–29Workshop on CD-ROM: Miniport Receiver EB200CD-ROM* Obtainable free of charge from your Rohde&Schwarz representativeA new English/German trainingCD-ROM* from Rohde&Schwarzpresents an extensive and versatile,virtual workshop for familiarizingwith operation and functionality ofMiniport Receiver EB200.Following an interesting lead-inanimation – you see EB200 emergestep by step from the drawing boardto become the finished receiver – themain menu offers you a wide choice ofsubjects. First time round though, youshould work from the top down. TheTutorial tells you all about startup, reception,direct functions and frequency plusmemory scan. Here you can learn howto handle the device just like in conventionaltraining. Under the next menuitem Operation, you can try out whatyou know – virtually – on the receiver,which is simulated with all its functions.Test finds out what you know aboutEB200 and what you can do with it.The results tell you how good you areand what you may need to repeat toget better. Click on Documentation andyou can read the data sheet, specificationsand manual, a presentation of allinformation relating to EB200 and aprofile of Rohde&Schwarz.This virtual workshop offers both usersof Miniport Receiver EB200 and thoseinterested in it a simple way of findingout how to operate the device or makeeven better use of it.Stefan BöttingerNews from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 35

Information in printVector Network Analyzer ZVM (10 MHz to20 GHz) has the top-class features of the ZVxmodels and extends their frequency range to20 GHz; options and extras as for the otherZVx models.Data sheet PD 757.5543.21 enter 167/15Baseband Fading Simulator ABFS generates signalsfor universal mobile-radio measurementapplications (I/Q); 2 fading channels, 12 paths(optional: 4 or 24); noise generators (optional)for output and second output.Data sheet PD 757.5466.21 enter 167/16Modulation Generator AMIQ, Simulation SoftwareWinIQSIM The data sheet contains specificationsrelating to W-CDMA 3GPP (FDD) anddescribes the optional digital I/Q output as wellas the AMIQ03 and AMIQ04 models (the latter:16 Msample).Data sheet PD 757.5314.21 enter 167/17Signal Analyzer FSIQ 20 Hz to 40 GHz for thelatest FSIQ model; this model and the options1 dB attenuator, Ethernet interface with RJ-45connector and exchangeable hard disk (or two)have been taken into account in the revised datasheet.Data sheet PD 757.4160.22 enter 167/18Signal Generator SML01 (9 kHz to 1.1 GHz,resolution 0.1 Hz) offers all the properties ofa universal signal source: setting time

Press commentsPhotos: authorTop: the “star”, the new ATSC TestReceiver EFA;left: Michael Vondermassen, Headof the Broadcasting Division, receivingthe Star AwardStar Award forATSC Test Receiver EFATV Technology, the world‘s major and mostread magazine focusing on the broadcastindustry, presented its Star Award in the categoryfor measurement technology to thenew ATSC Test Receiver EFA from Rohde&Schwarz at the NAB2000 show (page 38).The test receiver wonthe prize for its innovativeconcept andmodern technology.EFA can simultaneouslyreceive, analyzeand demodulate8VSB-modulated picturedata (the transmissionstandardadopted for digitaltelevision in NorthAmerica). The StarAward is presentedjust once a year tothe most innovativeproducts exhibited atthe NAB show in Las Vegas. Articles in thisissue on ATSC-EFA (page 11) and EFA-T (page32).Stefan BöttingerInto the Bluetooth era –with Rohde&SchwarzMOBILE europe, a European journal for wirelesscommunication, decorated the cover ofits March issue with the Bluetooth imagemotif from Rohde&Schwarz. Inside themagazine reported on the new Bluetooth testsystem:“In TS8960 Rohde&Schwarz is launching theworld‘s first test system for Bluetooth equipmentand components. This system, right intune with the current Bluetooth core specifications1.0 and RF test specifications 0.7,can be used for both conformity tests andmeasurements in the development phase orin quality assurance. All necessary Bluetoothtest cases are ready set, but their parameterscan be modified and adapted as wished.…TS8960 is available straight away, makingit the first and only Bluetooth test systemobtainable on the world market.”Instrumentation for digital TVThe front spread of the April edition of theEuropean broadcasting magazine IBE wastaken up by measurement solutions for DTVfrom Rohde&Schwarz. An article inside thejournal described the use of this instrumentationin terrestrial digital TV networks:“… Digital broadcasting of TV signals byMPEG2 is on the increase. In addition totransmission media like satellite and cable,terrestrial broadcasting networks are inthe process of being set up in many countriesor are planned for the near future.Rohde&Schwarz offers numerous solutionsfor these requirements.”News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 37

NewsgramsNAB – Rohde&Schwarzwith allround assortmentAt the world‘s biggest show forbroadcast technology, the NAB,which was staged in Las Vegasfrom 10 through 14 April,Rohde&Schwarz presented itsentire range of transmissionand measurement equipment.The effort was worth it: thelarge number of visitors to thestand and numerous contactsproved how much interest thereis in the company and whatit has to offer. The focus atthe show was on new generationsof test equipment fordigital technologies and onmedium-power transmitters. Thecompact, air-cooled transmittersof the NH/NV7000 familywith LDMOS transistors andintegrated analog or OFDM(8VSB) coder are designed fordigital television from 100 W to800 W and analog televisionin the range 250 W to 2 kW.They allow precise and efficientcoverage even of small areas.The exciter is modular, meaningthat the transmitters canbe reconfigured from analogto digital TV (DVB-T, ATSC) bysimply replacing the encodermodule.Among the highlights was theATSC Test Receiver EFA, theworld‘s first realtime TV testreceiver for digital TV (seepages 11 and 37). Withthe new MPEG2 Recorder/Generator DVRG, transportstreams to ATSC and DVB canbe recorded, decoded, newlymultiplexed and generated. Thenew TV Test Transmitter SFQproduces RF signals for ATSC,the North-American terrestrialdigital TV standard.In addition to its own showing,Rohde&Schwarz was also representedon the stand of its USpartner Acrodyne. The teamingup of the two transmitter producershas been well received inthe USA and already resultedin initial joint projects and contracts.In the words of a seasonedsales engineer who reallyknows the show: “The best NABever!“Stefan BöttingerCompetent on-the-spotservice in AsiaIn the capital-goods sector inparticular, customer satisfactiondepends very much on beingable to offer fast and first-classservice. For this reason Rohde&Schwarz is implementing anexpanded, multistage conceptwith its Asian representatives inthe 1999/2000 business yearthat will upgrade the service supportcenters in the various countriesto meet the bigger demandsof the market for calibration,repair and spare-part logistics.Categorization will also providecustomers with a clearer profileof the individual supportcenters.This means auditing Rohde&Schwarz‘s Asian support centersand organizing them intoperformance categories accordingto training, equipment inventory,service processes and profiles.The categories range frombasic support (First Line Bronze)through standard service (FirstLine Silver) to above-averageservice and support (First LineGold). Appropriate upgradingwill be undertaken to achievethe right performance categoryat the right place.The support for large regionshas been decentralized andassigned to an area supportcenter (Second Line Service),which handles direct most ofthe service previously managedfrom Munich, thus presentinggreater on-the-spot presence.The demands made on such anarea support center are veryhigh, in both technical and logisticterms. The Rohde&SchwarzSupport Center Asia (SCA) sitedin Singapore satisfied all therequirements and was recentlynamed the first official area supportcenter (photo). Others arecurrently being set up in bothAsia and Latin America.Hans-Joachim MannThe SCA team of the area support center for Southeast AsiaGerman Navy successfullytrials PostManAs part of a series of shortwavetrials called “PC-Net“, theGerman Navy used the Post-Man communication softwarefrom Rohde&Schwarz for thefirst time early in 2000. Withthe aid of PostMan it was possibleto set up a wireless TCP/IPlink between a submarine anda land-based LAN on shortwave.The radio link enabled anexchange of e-mails using COTS(commercial off-the-shelf) e-mailprograms. PostMan will alsoimplement other TCP/IP applicationsby radio, as was demonstratedby an intranet accesswith standard browsers.Thomas KneidelPhoto: author38 News from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II)

NewsgramsSpectrum MonitoringSystem ARGUS-IT on theroof of the world inBhutanA Spectrum Monitoring SystemARGUS-IT from Rohde&Schwarzwas recently commissioned inBhutan, a country in the easternHimalayas. It was contractedby the Ministry of Communicationand consists of a stationin the capital Thimphuplus an all-terrain test vehicle(photo). In Bhutan the focus is oncoordinating the many mediumwavetransmitters in the countryitself and in the neighbouringcountries China and India toprevent mutual interference. Atthe official handover, Bhutan‘sDeputy Minister of Communication,Dasho Leki Dorji, was verysatisfied with the performanceof ARGUS-IT.Jörg Pfitzner(Software for ARGUS-IT, seepage 18 in this issue)Photo: authorSpectrum monitoring on the highestpasses of Bhutan (Pele La at3400 m altitude)GSM test equipment forItaly‘s telecommunicationsministryThe ISCTI (Istituto Superiore delleCommunicazioni e delle Tecnologiedell‘Informazione), whichis part of the Italian telecommunicationsministry, awardedRohde&Schwarz an order tosupply a GSM System SimulatorTS8916B with extensiveaccessories for a test center inRome for the certification ofGSM mobile telephones. TheTS8916B system is the state ofthe art in GSM conformance testingand is used by virtually allproducers and test houses worldwide.It comprises a total of ninephysical RF channels and extraRF instrumentation for measuringfading effects or wideband interference.Many years of experience inall sectors of mobile radio andespecially in certification testinghave made Rohde&Schwarzthe world‘s market leader. TheISCTI, which is responsible forcertificating digital communicationsequipment in Italy, intendsto set up a GSM test center bymid-2000 that covers the broadspectrum from protocol and RFtests through to acoustic andEMC tests plus environmentalsimulation.Safeguard against attacksfrom the InternettIn the new version of the BSItool “Secure UNIX Administration“,Rohde&Schwarz is offeringsoftware with which UNIXsystems can be tested for gapsin their security. The softwareperforms security checks automaticallyor manually, producessuggestions for correcting weaknessesin security, and evensupports the system administratorin eliminating detectedsources of danger. In the catalogof measures of the “SafeInternet“ task force, recentlypublished by Germany‘s ministryof the interior, the BSI toolfrom Rohde&Schwarz is recommendedas being especially suitablefor protecting IT systemsagainst denial of service on theInternet.Stefan BöttingerNews from Rohde & Schwarz Number 167 (2000/II) 39

Visit us on Internet at www.rohde-schwarz.comNews from Rohde & Schwarz 167 (2000/II) · PD 757.5350.21 · B42622ROHDE & SCHWARZ GmbH & Co. KG · Muehldorfstrasse 15 · 81671 Munich, Germany · P.O.B. 80 14 69 · 81614 MunichSupport Center: Tel. (+49) 018 05 12 42 42 · E-Mail: customersupport@rohde-schwarz.com · Fax (+49 89) 41 29-37 77