Over the Air (OTA) Testing

What is OTA Testing?

Over the Air (OTA) testing evaluates and validates the RF performance of antennas within wireless devices. Unlike traditional testing approaches that involve cables with a direct connection to the device under test, OTA testing mimics real-world usage scenarios, enabling a real use assessment of a device's wireless capabilities.

Total Radiated Power (TRP) and Total Isotropic Sensitivity (TIS) measurements are performed with the products operating within designed parameters and evaluated against specified standards.

OTA testing provides manufacturers of wireless devices and distributors the assurance that their products meet legal regulatory and industry performance requirements, but also are ready to enter the marketplace.

Why is OTA Testing Important?

OTA testing is now a regulatory requirement within the Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU under Article 3.2. OTA testing enables manufacturers to validate and refine the performance of their wireless devices in real-world scenarios, ensuring that the products meet stringent quality standards, regulatory requirements, and user expectations. This type of testing allows manufacturers to identify and address issues related to signal strength, interference, antenna design, and network compatibility, ultimately leading to the production of more reliable and competitive wireless products.

From initial measurements of the device under test, adjustments can be made to the antenna or antenna matching circuit. The manufacturer is able to quickly see improvements or degradation of performance. Where needed, TÜV SÜD have a Vector Network Analyser available which can be used to measure circuit impedances. This can help with confirming calculations of the antenna matching circuit and being in close proximity to the test chamber – allows for adjustments to be made with results visible in quick time.

Why choose TÜV SÜD for OTA Regulatory anD Industry Testing?

Our team's extensive expertise in wireless communication and state-of-the-art facilities enable us to offer tailored solutions to address your specific product requirements and regulatory challenges, no matter what the form factor of the product. TÜV SÜD offer accurate product development testing at concept design on first batch runs to reduce costly errors and reduce time to market for manufacturers.

TÜV SÜD's testing services for wireless devices include, but are not limited to:

• Total Radiated Power (TRP) measurements
• Total Radiated Sensitivity (TRS) measurements
• Passive antenna measurements

Whether you are looking to test for regulatory, network operator requirements or developing products to an internal metric, we are here to support you. Please contact us to discuss your needs or learn more about why OTA testing is so important in our blog post, Harnessing the Power of OTA Testing.

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