Downconversion of 5G FR2 Frequency Band Now Possible
Narda Safety Test Solutions has developed two new 5G antennae for its tried and tested handheld SRM-3006 field strength measuring system, enabling it to measure the upper 5G frequency band FR2.
One omnidirectional and one directional downconverter antenna will now capture electromagnetic fields and their sources in the range between 24.25-29.50GHz. Both antennas can downconvert these 5G frequencies, so that they can be measured by the Narda Selective Radiation Meter. This means that results for frequencies much higher than the specified device range are conveniently shown directly on the display, referred to the permitted limit value for the actual frequency.
Good news for authorities, mobile network operators, and measurement service providers: The SRM-3006 can now also be used in the millimeter wave range, making it future-proof: selective measurement enables targeted examination of the 5G band and of a specific network provider. This intelligent frequency extension of the SRM-3006 to include FR2 means that measurement technicians considering the requirements of 5G New Radio do not need to learn how to use, let alone acquire, a new measuring device. As in the past, they can in future continue to benefit from this measuring system, designed for professional, precise, and reliable EMF measurements.
User friendly and simple operation are core concepts for Narda, avoiding measurement errors and achieving highly reliable results. Set-up is equally simple: once connected, all that is needed is to set the desired frequency band and start the measurement sequences as usual. The new antennas also have their frequency response (sensitivity versus frequency) data stored in the 5G antenna itself. When connected using a Narda antenna cable, the data are automatically read by the SRM basic unit and applied. Such simple measurement set-up and operation guarantees that results for these high 5G frequencies will be just as fast, error-free and reliable as before.
As high losses occur even in short cable runs at these high FR2 frequencies, the downconverter is connected directly to the antenna module, forming a perfect unit together. The cable to the basic unit only carries frequencies up to 6GHz, so that cable losses are considerably less and the type of cable required is much more robust.
The antennas have their own built in rechargeable battery, with an operating time of about 4 hours and therefore offering no restrictions for the basic unit. They can be used with a conventional external power pack for long term measurements.
