Over-the-Air (OTA) Testing

OTA testing is a technique for evaluating the wireless functionality and dependability of wireless equipment with integrated antennas. We use these types of technologies on a daily basis, such as smart phones, IoT (Internet of Things) gadgets, and various trackers like smart watches. To establish wireless connection, the efficiency of the antennas should be checked. OTA testing can be used to evaluate it.

The gadget undergoing testing is put in a testing environment within a testing room to execute an OTA testing. Any external information is blocked from entering the test chamber. The purpose of the OTA testing procedure is to guarantee that the device performs well in all situations.

Why is it critical to conduct OTA testing?

When it comes to making a buying choice, people value great wireless capabilities. A well-functioning wireless gadget establishes company reputation and ensures that users receive the service they want. There are numerous other reasons to conduct an OTA test.

Expensive design mistakes can be prevented if OTA testing is performed early in the process. If a device is released and the maker discovers that the phone’s wireless functionality is poor, it can drastically damage a company’s brand, not to speak the expenses of recall.

Benchmarking could be aided by a good OTA test result. Furthermore, some of the largest telecom operators have certain OTA criteria, which must be met by having the device OTA tested. Generally, OTA testing verifies that the receiver is suitable to be marketed.

The Future of OTA Testing has arrived

Although using wires to link smart phones to test hardware is the most practical and cost-effective way, it’s doesn’t accurately reflect how these gadgets react in the actual life. As gadgets are becoming more connected, it’ll become increasingly difficult to do so. As cellular carriers move to higher bands in order to gain bigger bandwidths for 5G compatibility, this poses considerable issues.

The testing should be carried out wirelessly or over the air in order to evaluate smart phones in conditions that are comparable to those that consumers encounter. As a result, engineers could see exactly what happens as electromagnetic signals travel through the air from user hardware to ground network and from base system to user hardware.

Conclusion

Two important reasons will need OTA testing as cellular technology moves toward 5G networks. The amount of connectivity of the DUT will grow dramatically, making cable connections to the testing hardware practically unfeasible, necessitating OTA testing. Second, data absorption rates are substantially greater at mm Wave wavelengths, requiring beam concentrating or beamforming to increase gain.