Keysight Technologies, Inc. introduces the Keysight E5081A ENA-X, the first midrange vector network analyzer(VNA) that produces fast, accurate error vector magnitude(EVM) measurements and accelerates the characterization of 5G component designs by up to 50%.

Demand for ever-increasing data speeds with ultra-low latency is pushing the next generation of wireless communications systems to operate at higher radio frequencies(RF). 

To ensure 5G New Radio(NR) transmitters meet these operational demands, RF engineers must fully test the design and performance of components such as power amplifiers(PA). 

Obtaining measurements for PAs under realistic conditions can be time consuming, requiring multiple instruments and test setups. In addition, acquiring the precise EVM measurements needed to certify PA conformance to 5G standards requires using a high-performance VNA.

The new Keysight ENA-X addresses this need by giving RF engineers a midrange network analyzer platform with integrated modulation distortion analysis offering full vector correction at the device under test(DUT) plane in a single test setup. 

With a unique architecture, the ENA-X can perform multiple measurements with a single connection, which simplifies test setup, drives repeatability, and speeds testing.

“Combined with the powerful modulation distortion analysis software that was previously only available on our highest-performing PNA series network analyzers, the new midrange E5081A ENA-X VNA solution is ideal for power amplifier characterization for 5G transmitters,” said Joe Rickert, Vice President, Keysight High Frequency Measurements Center of Excellence.

Thanks to its custom-built MMICs, the ENA-X provides the highest output power, dynamic range, and system stability needed by RF engineers without masking the performance of the power amplifier under test.”