Keysight Technologies is facilitating the University of Stuttgart in conducting fundamental research crucial to the development of novel integrated circuits (IC) for 6G technology, utilising the new Keysight 6G Vector Component Analysis (VCA) solution. This marks the most recent collaboration between Keysight and the University of Stuttgart, building upon their longstanding research partnership.
This collaboration has provided substantial support to the University of Stuttgart in establishing Crosslink, a versatile multiplexing platform for synchronous analyses of ultra-broadband communication channels in both time and frequency domains. The Keysight VCA solution effectively complements Crosslink by incorporating sub-terahertz (sub-THz) vector network analysis with extensive wideband modulation capabilities. This combined functionality facilitates the characterisation of radio frequency (RF) components under comprehensive complex modulated conditions. The outcome is noise and linearity performance for the assessment of wideband, high-frequency modulated functionalities within components, circuits, and transceivers. Through the utilisation of VCA, researchers can make substantial advancements in the progression of next-generation amplifiers, filters, antenna systems, components, as well as channel modelling and sounding essential for 6G networks.
The VCA measurement solution from Keysight employed in the Crosslink setup integrates an N5245B PNA-X Microwave Network Analyser, an M8199A Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG), application software for broadband modulation distortion vector network analysis (VNA), and vector signal analysis (VSA) software, all coupled with Virginia Diodes (VDI) frequency extenders capable of reaching up to 330 GHz.
The partnership between Keysight and the University of Stuttgart lends its support to a substantial equipment initiative funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). This initiative is aimed at preparing for an era of considerable data rate escalation, the emergence of novel electro-optical fibre and wireless communication systems, as well as the prospective exploitation of sub-THz radio frequency bands. It underpins the industry’s vision of establishing sustainable, agile, low-latency, and high-speed 6G wireless communication networks by fostering the development of energy-efficient, next-generation ICs.
University of Stuttgart Professor Ingmar Kallfass said: “In collaboration with Keysight, we’re creating an innovative measurement platform that covers a large variety of measurement configurations that lets us evaluate the suitability of ultra-wideband channels for wireless THz communications.”
Giampaolo Tardioli, Vice President for Keysight’s 6G and Next Generation program, said: “Keysight is excited to collaborate with cutting-edge research teams using the latest measurement capabilities for the sake of advancing sub-THz technology, shaping the future of digital technology and driving innovation. By playing an active role in accelerating 6G research, we’re helping the wireless industry in Europe and other regions achieve competitive technological proficiency, essential in attaining economic prosperity.”
