Standard-Compliant Validation of Wi-Fi PA/FEM Components

Engineers working to develop the latest components and devices for Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 8 face new test challenges as IEEE standards continually evolve. With specifications such as channel bandwidths up to 640 MHz, modulation orders of 4096-QAM and 8192-QAM, and advanced MIMO operation, Wi-Fi PA/FEMs must be tested more rigorously than ever before. With a similar need for better RF performance, there is a challenge to accurately test these devices while still reaching consumers quickly, reliably, and with minimized development cost.

 

  • ​​Provide sufficient RF spectrum coverage across all (2.4/5/6 GHz, mmWave) Wi-Fi frequency bands
  • ​Allow instantaneous bandwidth 3–5 times channel bandwidth for applications like digital pre-distortion (DPD) (1,440 to 2,400 MHz bandwidth)
  • ​Enable fast, automated test for characterization across many parameters such as frequency and power
  • ​Incorporate additional DUT test requirements such as analog, digital, DC I/O  
  • ​Scale with adapting DUT requirements and be versatile enough to accommodate DUTs on new standards  
  • ​Incorporate future-proof RF test instrumentation, able to meet measurement requirements of Wi-Fi 7 while looking forward to Wi-Fi 8​

RFIC Validation Reference Architecture

  • Simplify, scale, and integrate Wi-Fi test systems with modular DC, analog, digital, and RF instruments on the PXI platform
  • Achieve excellent RF performance including best-in-class EVM for Wi-Fi 7 (< -52 dB for 802.11be, 320 MHz, MCS 13) using the PXIe-5842
  • Simplify implementation of complex Wi-Fi measurements, such as cross-correlated EVM, dynamic EVM, load-pull, digital predistortion (DPD)/envelope tracking (ET), and more
  • Easily configure measurements, visualize results, and analyze data on an intuitive and easy-to-use GUI in the RFIC Test Software
  • Quickly sweep parameters, automate characterization, and ensure fast measurement execution

Solution Advantages

Simplify Complex Dynamic EVM Measurements for Wi-Fi Front Ends

Unified Validation of Wi-Fi PA/FEMs

NI’s software defined approach to validation combined with the RF performance of NI PXI VSTs makes for an extremely powerful combination in Wi-Fi PA/FEM validation. Watch how the easy and intuitive workflows make complex validation and characterization processes much simpler.

Build Your Solution with the NI Ecosystem

NI offers a variety of solution integration options customized to your application-specific requirements. You can use your own internal integration teams for full system control or leverage the expertise of NI and our worldwide NI Partner Network to obtain a turnkey solution.

NI Partner Network

The NI Partner Network is a global community of domain, application, and overall test development experts working closely with NI to meet the needs of the engineering community. NI Partners are trusted solution providers, systems integrators, consultants, product developers, and services and sales channel experts skilled across a wide range of industries and application areas.

Services and Support

NI works with customers throughout the life of an application, delivering training, technical support, consultation and integration services, and maintenance programs. Teams can discover new skills by participating in NI-specific and geographic user groups and build proficiency with online and in-person training.

Learn more about the NI RFFE Validation Reference Architecture for Wi-Fi PA/FEM validation

​See the latest trends in RFFE validation, with a streamlined process for evaluating RFFE design from interactive setups to automated tests. Learn about integration strategies for solutions that enhance testing infrastructure, offering a comprehensive overview of effective RFFE validation in modern telecommunications.​