Munich 27-Oct-2022

HEAD acoustics relies on R&S CMX500 to accelerate testing of 5G NR voice service (VoNR)

The voice and audio analysis expert HEAD acoustics has decided in favor of the 5G test solution from Rohde & Schwarz for verification of voice and audio services of 5G mobile devices. The upgraded R&S CMX500 5G one-box signaling tester features a significantly reduced footprint and easier handling combined with debugging and analysis capabilities, which support the end users’ testing of voice services.

The R&S CMX500 offers a comprehensive tool set for audio testing. When combined with the labCORE hardware platform from HEAD acoustics and their ACQUA measurement and analysis software, the full setup allows audio acoustics testing of voice services in both 5G (VoNR) and 4G (VoLTE) networks. This enables manufacturers of 5G capable devices to test the voice quality of their devices at an early stage before market introduction.

Rohde & Schwarz has addressed the needs of audio test labs with its leading-edge solution that allows 5G NR devices to be tested in both standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) TDD and FDD mode. The R&S CMX500 supports 5G FR1 frequency range up to 8 GHz and FR2 mmWave frequency range up to 50 GHz in one instrument and provides the required features and codecs for VoLTE and VoNR calls. With new features such as the Connection Selection, configuration and adaptation of the device under test (DUT) to the test setup becomes easier than ever, thanks to very easy handling and visualization of the DUT antenna connection with the RF connectors of the R&S CMX500.

Another important feature is the Bearer and Flow Monitor that enables the user to see various Quality of Service (QoS) flows such as video or audio live via the connection. For instance, all audio properties are visualized, including bitrate and codec within the flow stream. The HEAD acoustics labCORE system is connected via Ethernet using the integrated IP forward mode of the internal R&S CMX500 IMS server, specifically developed in a joint cooperation for this use case. This allows users to forward the voice data of a call established to the labCORE system for detailed voice quality analysis. However, an analog connection with the labCore system is also supported in case the labCore system is not equipped with the IP interface.

Christian Schüring, Head of Sales Department Telecom at HEAD acoustics GmbH, states: "With its significantly reduced one-box footprint, the R&S CMX500 is a compact test and measurement solution with dramatically simplified cabling and handling. The user-friendly operation combined with a wide range of visualization graphics definitely convinced us, and we are happy to continue our international collaboration which was more than fruitful last year."

Christoph Pointner, Senior Vice President Mobile Radio Testers at Rohde & Schwarz, adds: "We are pleased that trusted and market leading T&M partner HEAD acoustics has selected our leading-edge R&S CMX500 radio communication tester as part of their test equipment. This will enable vendors to rapidly develop and deliver 5G voice services. Reliable and timely testing will accelerate the rollout of VoNR enabled products and helps to ensure that they are performing in line with the expected user experience."

For more information about the R&S CMX500 5G one-box signaling tester from Rohde & Schwarz, visit: https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/cmx500

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Rohde & Schwarz

Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its Test & Measurement, Technology Systems and Networks & Cybersecurity Divisions. For over 90 years, the global technology group has pushed technical boundaries with developments in cutting-edge technologies. The company's leading-edge products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory and government customers to attain technological and digital sovereignty. The privately owned, Munich based company can act independently, long-term and sustainably. Rohde & Schwarz generated net revenue of EUR 2.93 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year (July to June). On June 30, 2024, Rohde & Schwarz had more than 14,400 employees worldwide.

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HEAD acoustics

HEAD acoustics GmbH is one of the world's leading companies offering holistic sound and vibration analysis solutions. In the telecom sector, the company enjoys global recognition due to its expertise and pioneering role in developing hardware and software for measuring, analyzing, and optimizing voice and audio quality, as well as customer-specific solutions and services. HEAD acoustics' range of services covers sound engineering for technical products, investigation of environmental noise, speech quality engineering, consulting, training, and support. The medium-sized company from Herzogenrath near Aachen has subsidiaries in China, France, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea, the UK, the USA, and numerous sales partners worldwide.