Satellite Test Platform Integrates EMC and Antenna Measurements in One Chamber
Precise validation of satellite performance in complex environments is essential, and validating integration between satellites and cellular base stations is an area where conventional testing methods often fall short.
On that front, Rohde & Schwarz recently delivered a customized test solution to the Taiwan Space Agency (TASA). The solution, claimed as the first time EMC and antenna measurement capabilities have been integrated in a single test chamber, combats a complex challenge in satellite payload testing.
The system, now operational at TASA’s facility, highlights the growing need for advanced satellite testing methodologies, especially with the increasing adoption of non-terrestrial-network (NTN) technologies.
To enable a single chamber to perform both EMC and antenna measurements, Rohde & Schwarz’s platform includes an R&S ZNA43 vector network analyzer and R&S AMS32 customized measurement software, with a compact antenna test range (CATR) reflector developed in partnership with a Taiwanese third-party supplier.
A significant aspect of the project was the company's novel diamond-shaped reflector design. It minimizes interference within the chamber and reduces interactions between the reflector, feed, and device-under-test (DUT) positioner. This results in improved accuracy and reliability in measuring complex satellite payloads.
