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Antenna Measurement Chambers in the 5G Era: What to Look For

Higher frequencies have made antenna measurements more sensitive. What to look for when choosing a measurement chamber.

Frequency and Absorbers

5G has pushed frequencies higher. The absorber material must reduce reflections enough at these frequencies.

Low frequencies, on the other hand, need larger absorbers and a larger chamber, so the lowest frequency to be measured sets the chamber size.

Measurement System

The antenna mast, turntable and measurement software should be planned together with the chamber. Cable penetrations and positioners must not degrade the chamber's performance.

CTIA and 3GPP methods are taken into account for over-the-air performance testing of wireless devices.

Flexibility for the Future

The chamber's operating range can be extended by replacing or adding absorber material.

When investing, you should also account for the frequencies you will need to measure in the future.

Choosing the Measurement Method

The right chamber for 5G measurements depends on the method used. Direct far-field, compact range and near-field methods each need different chamber sizes and equipment.

We explained the extra challenges of FR2 bands in our mmWave measurement challenges article. For chamber options, see our antenna measurement chamber page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which chamber is enough for 5G FR1?

A standard fully anechoic chamber is enough for most FR1 measurements.

Can an antenna chamber also be used for EMC tests?

Some emission tests can be done, but most EMC standards require a semi-anechoic chamber.

Can the chamber be adapted to future bands?

Its operating range can be extended by changing absorbers and the measurement system.

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