octoScope

Testing MIMO systems

Figure 1 octoBox

MIMO devices employ a variety of multiple antenna techniques, including:

  • Spatial multiplexing, whereby multiple data streams are sent simultaneously
  • Beamforming, whereby antenna fields are combined for waveform directionality
  • TX diversity (e.g. STBC, CDD, SFBC, etc.)
  • RX diversity (e.g. MRC)

Testing the behavior and performance of such multiple antenna techniques in the octoBox requires special consideration for the test instrumentation and antenna placement. Standards for MIMO/OTA test methodology are now underdevelopment at 3GPP and CTIA.

When setting up MIMO testing in the octoBox, specialized test set-up with multiple test antennas and channel emulation equipment may be required. The octoScope engineers are available for consultations on the intricacies of the MIMO test setup.

Please inquire about our consulting services to set up and automate testing in the octoBox.

Notes: CDD = cyclic delay diversity; SFBC = space frequency block coding; STBC = space time block coding; MRC = maximal ratio combining