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Test set speeds next-generation wireless-device calibration

Agilent Technologies has announced the availability of a next-generation wireless-communications test-set platform, which the company calls ideal for calibrating mobile phones in highvolume manufacturing. The test set provides industryleading measurement speed and integrity as well as unique scalability—all targeting a decrease in the manufacturing cost of test.

The Agilent E6601A is an integrated test system in one box. It features a built-in, open- Windows XP PC, which allows the development, downloading, and execution of test programs directly in the system—eliminating the test-system PC and saving system space and cost. With a new measurement architecture that Agilent says targets high-speed measurements and accuracy, repeatability, and measurement integrity, the unit significantly lowers the cost of mobile-phone manufacturing test. In addition, the product provides reliability and low cost of ownership, the company claims.

One of the test set’s key features is its speed—as much as 30% faster than other approaches. New calibration applications for GSM (Global System for Mobile communications), GPRS (General Packet Radio System), EGPRS (Enhanced GPRS), WCDMA (wideband codedivision multiple access), and HSDPA (high-speed datapacket access) provide scalable, multiformat capabilities with only a software upgrade. For mobile-phone calibration, an optional fast device-tune measurement enables speeds as great as 10 times those of traditional methods. Connectivity is possible through 100BaseT LAN, IEEE 488, and six USB 2.0 ports.

The E6601A is the newest addition to Agilent’s wirelesscommunications test-set product line, which includes the 8960 wireless-communications test set. As the company’s flagship product, the 8960 continues to suit applications for wireless-device R&D, conformance test, manufacturing, service, and support. The E6601A costs $27,100. A GSM/GPRS-calibration application sells for $6000, and a WCDMA-calibration application also costs $6000.

—by Dan Strassberg
Agilent Technologies,. www.agilent.com