• Test solutions from Keysight Technologies are enabling the University of Stuttgart to conduct fundamental research essential to the development of new integrated circuits (ICs) for sixth-generation (6G) mobile communications technology.
• This collaboration has enabled the University of Stuttgart to implement Crosslink, a versatile multiplexing platform for synchronous time- and frequency-domain analysis of ultra-broadband communication channels.

 
The Vector Component Analysis (VCA) solution supports Crosslink by integrating vector analysis of sub-terahertz (sub-THz) networks with broadband modulation capabilities. This combination enables characterization of radio frequency (RF) components under complex modulation conditions. The result, according to Keysight, is industry-leading noise and linearity performance for the analysis of broadband and high-frequency modulated performance of components, circuits and transceivers.

Using the VCA test solution, researchers at the University of Stuttgart are working on the development of next-generation amplifiers, filters, antenna systems and components, as well as the channel modeling and analysis required for 6G communications networks.

The VCA solution used for Crosslink integrates an N5245B PNA-X microwave network analyzer, an M8199A arbitrary waveform generator (AWG), broadband modulation distortion vector network analyzer (VNA) application software and vector signal analysis (VSA) software with Virginia Diodes (VDI) frequency extenders up to 330 GHz.

The collaboration between Keysight and the University of Stuttgart is part of a major equipment project funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). This initiative aims to pave the way for a future characterized by massive increases in data rates, new types of electro-optical fiber and wireless communication systems, and the possible use of sub-THz radio frequency bands. It is in line with the industry’s vision of deploying sustainable, agile, low-latency, high-speed 6G wireless communication networks, thanks to the development of energy-efficient, next-generation integrated circuits.