5G Multifunctional MPAC Test Solution based on Switch Matrix and Probe Selection

The over-the-air (OTA) testing based on multi-probe anechoic chamber (MPAC) is an efficient solution to evaluate the performance of 5G multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) capable devices, which can reconstruct the wireless channel within the lab in a controlled manner. For different test requirements, the probe layouts of the MPAC may be varied, bringing a lot of additional hardware overhead. In this paper, a novel design of the MPAC test system is proposed and constructed to meet various mainstream 5G OTA test solutions. By adopting switch matrixes and the three-dimensional (3D) quick probe selection algorithm, a 3D MPAC can be easily adjusted to different probe layouts. The solution can save at most 3/4 of the hardware port resources while ensuring the channel emulation accuracy. Channel validation and 5G terminals performance testing are carried out in the new system. The result comparison demonstrates the effectiveness of the probe simplification scheme and the system design.