R&S®CMW-Z800A

UP/DOWN-CONVERTER
6 GHz band extension for
WLAN IEEE 802.11ax signaling

Product Information
Version 03.00
CONTENTS
1 At a glance......................................................................................................................................................3
1.1 Key parameters of the R&S®CMW-Z800A up/down-converter.......................................................................3
1.2 Scope of supply...............................................................................................................................................3
1.3 Other required instruments.............................................................................................................................3
1.4 Abbreviation.....................................................................................................................................................3

2 Components and their tasks..........................................................................................................................4

3 Cabling............................................................................................................................................................6
3.1 Cabling between the R&S®CMW and ­the R&S®CMW‑Z800A.........................................................................6
3.2 Cabling between DUT and splitter..................................................................................................................7

4 Frequency response correction......................................................................................................................8

4.1 Preconditions for running the script................................................................................................................8
4.2 Frequency response correction procedure......................................................................................................9
4.2.1 Script parameters............................................................................................................................................9
4.2.2 Step 1: level adjustment of the “To DUT” signal path...................................................................................11
4.2.3 Step 2: recording FDAC for level adjustment of the “From DUT” signal path – l­oopback from
“To DUT” path to “From DUT” path...............................................................................................................14

5 Determining the required external attenuator............................................................................................16

6 WLAN operating...........................................................................................................................................17
6.1 Activating FDAC tables..................................................................................................................................17
6.2 External attenuation configuration................................................................................................................18
6.3 Activating CW signal for LO...........................................................................................................................19
6.4 Signaling........................................................................................................................................................20
6.4.1 Measurement.................................................................................................................................................21
6.4.2 General information about performing measurements with signaling.........................................................21

7 Abbreviations................................................................................................................................................23

8 Specifications...............................................................................................................................................24

9 Maintenance and service.............................................................................................................................25

9.1 Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................................25

10 R&S®CMW models.......................................................................................................................................26

2
1 AT A GLANCE
1.1 Key parameters of the R&S®CMW-Z800A up/down-converter

Key parameters
Frequencies
LO frequency 4800 MHz
LO level setting 7 dBm
RF min. 5.925 GHz
RF max. 7.125 GHz
RF levels
Converter output max. level –20 dBm PEP
Converter input max. level (without external attenuator) 0 dBm PEP
Temperature
Operating temperature range +5 °C to +45 °C

1.2 Scope of supply

The package consists of:
► R&S®CMW-Z800A up/down-converter
► Minicircuit powersplitter (R&S®ZFRSC-4-842-S+)
► 3 × N-to-N cable, length: 1 m
► 2 × SMA-to-SMA cable, length: 0.4 m
► 1 × N-to-SMA cable, length: 1.5 m
► 2 × load resistors, 50 Ω
► 2 × 6 dB attenuators
► 1 × 3 dB attenuator
► Power supply

1.3 Other required instruments

Required for level adjustment:
► R&S®FSW signal and spectrum analyzer (recommended) or similar spectrum analyzer
with an upper frequency of more than 7.125 GHz
► Computer/laptop to run R&S®Forum script
► Ethernet cable and Ethernet switch to control R&S®CMW270/R&S®CMW500 and
spectrum analyzer via SCPI

Required for operation (not included in package):

► R&S®CMW270/R&S®CMW500 with two TRXs (R&S®CMW-570H)
or:
► R&S®CMW270/R&S®CMW500 with one TRX (R&S®CMW-570H) and an external
generator to generate the CW signal at 4800 MHz (7 dBm)

1.4 Abbreviation
The R&S®CMW270/R&S®CMW500 will be abbreviated to R&S®CMW in this document.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 3

2 COMPONENTS AND THEIR TASKS
The R&S®CMW itself can support frequencies up to 6 GHz. The e
­ xternal
R&S®CMW‑Z800A up/down-converter enables the R&S®CMW to execute
IEEE 802.11ax WLAN tests in the 6 GHz band (5.925 GHz to 7.125 GHz).

The R&S®CMW-Z800A was developed for IEEE 802.11ax signaling only.

Fig. 2-1: Channel allocation according to unlicensed national information infrastructure (U-NII)

7.125 GHz
6.425 GHz
5.925 GHz

6.875 GHz
6.525 GHz
U-NII-5 U-NII-6 U-NII-7 U-NII-8

20 MHz 159

40 MHz 3 11 19 27 35 43 51 59 67 75 83 91 99 107 115 123 131 139 147 155 163 171 179 187 196 203 211 219 227

80 MHz 7 23 39 55 71 87 103 119 135 151 167 183 199 215

160 MHz 15 47 79 111 143 175 207

­ &S®CMW‑Z800A supports frequencies in the 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz range.

R
­R&S®CMW‑Z800A must be supplied with a 12 V DC max. 1 A and a CW signal at
4800 MHz of 7 dBm (­R&S®CMW‑Z800A connector “LO IN”) for the local oscillator (LO).
This signal can either be generated with the GPRF generator of the R&S®CMW or an
external generator. If the R&S®CMW generates the LO signal, it must have two channels
(i.e. two TRX, R&S®CMW-B570H), one channel to generate the 4800 MHz signal, the sec-
ond for the WLAN signal. One of the unidirectional OUT connectors on the R&S®CMW is
used to achieve the required 7 dBm signal strength for the LO.

Compensation is needed for the frequency response that the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A causes in
the setup. Frequency dependent attenuation correction (FDAC) tables are used and must
be recorded beforehand (see chapter 4). It is not possible to use the setup without mak-
ing the level adjustment beforehand.

The FDAC table is only valid for the specific R&S®CMW used during level adjustment.

The R&S®CMW‑Z800A requires the input and output signals to be split. Therefore,
two R&S®CMW COM connectors are needed and must be connected to the
­R&S®CMW‑Z800A. The signal from the R&S®CMW (the intermediate frequency signal)
is mixed within the R
­ &S®CMW‑Z800A using the LO signal (4800 MHz) to achieve the
desired frequency (between 5925 MHz and 7125 MHz). This results in an input frequency
range for the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A of 1125 MHz to 2325 MHz ((5925 MHz – 4800 MHz) to
(7125 MHz – 4800 MHz)).

WLAN devices under test (DUTs) typically use the same antenna for input and output
signals. If a conducted setup is used between the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A and the DUT (as rec-
ommended), the splitter will split the signal to the R
­ &S®CMW‑Z800A SMA connectors
(­R&S®CMW‑Z800A connector labelled “To DUT 5925 MHz – 7125 MHz” and “From DUT
5925 MHz – 7125 MHz”). Multiple antennas are quite common in WLAN IEEE 802.11ax
devices. Two DUT antennas can be connected to the splitter to feed/receive the signal to
and from both antennas of the DUT.

4
The maximum average input power of the splitter ports from the DUT must not exceed 20 dBm.

In case a DUT featuring only one antenna is used, it is necessary to terminate the unused
splitter connector with one of the provided load resistors.

If a dual-channel R&S®CMW with two frontends is used, measurements can be made in

the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz legacy bands without having to change cabling. The splitter port
“S” must be connected to one R&S®CMW COM connector. If this is not possible, the
unused splitter port must terminated with one of the load resistors provided.

The maximal input level of the R&S®CMW‑Z800A input level is 0 dBm PEP.

To reduce the signal from the WLAN DUT to 0 dBm PEP, one 3 dB attenuator and two
6 dB attenuators are provided. The DUT output level defines which attenuator should be
used. If the output level is ≤ 0 dBm PEP, no attenuator is needed.

Fig. 2-2: Example of R&S®CMW‑Z800A setup for a DUT with two antennas and
an R&S®CMW with two frontends
Legacy (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band)

CW at 4800 MHz, ¸CMW-Z800A 4 2

Splitter
7 dBm up/down-converter
Attenuator
Max. 3 1
0 dBm
PEP

Fig. 2-3: Example of R&S®CMW‑Z800A setup for a DUT with two antennas and
an R&S®CMW with one frontend
Load resistor

CW at 4800 MHz, ¸CMW-Z800A 4 2

Splitter
7 dBm up/down-converter
Attenuator
Max. 3 1
0 dBm
PEP

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 5

3 CABLING
3.1 Cabling between the R&S®CMW and ­the R&S®CMW‑Z800A
Cabling between the R&S®CMW and the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A depends on the R&S®CMW
hardware used. Three distinct configurations are possible:

Configuration 1
A dual-channel R&S®CMW (or four-channel R&S®CMW) with two frontends: Signal gen-
eration and measurements are possible in the 6 GHz band and legacy bands (2.4 GHz
and 5 GHz) without any reconnection of cables. The proposed cabling in Fig. 3-1 (first
frontend for 6 GHz WLAN; second frontend for LO and legacy band) is just one of the
potential cable configurations for the R&S®CMW with two frontends. Other cablings are
also possible. The R&S®Forum script for level adjustment (see chapter 4) has the pro-
posed cabling as its default. If other cable configurations are required, the R&S®Forum
script must be adapted accordingly.

Fig. 3-1: Dual-channel R&S®CMW with two frontends enables measurements in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
band without cable changes
Legacy (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band)

CW at 4800 MHz, 7 dBm ¸CMW-Z800A

up/down-converter

Configuration 2
Dual-channel R&S®CMW with one frontend advanced: This hardware configura-
tion allows signal generation and measurement in the 6 GHz band as well as parallel
­R&S®CMW‑Z800A LO signal generation. Measurements in the 2.4 GHz band and 5 GHz
band are not possible without first disconnecting the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A and reconfigur-
ing the R&S®CMW (e.g. deactivating the FDAC tables).

Fig. 3-2: Dual-channel R&S®CMW with one frontend advanced

CW at 4800 MHz, 7 dBm ¸CMW-Z800A

up/down-converter

6
Configuration 3
R&S®CMW with one frontend and one channel: An external generator is required to pro-
vide the signal for the LO of the R
­ &S®CMW‑Z800A. Signal generation and measurement
are only possible in the 6 GHz band. Measuring is not possible in the 2.4 GHz band and
5 GHz band without first disconnecting the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A and reconfiguring the
R&S®CMW.

Fig. 3-3: R&S®CMW with one frontend and one channel (one TRX)
(An external signal generator is required.)

CW at 4800 MHz, 7 dBm ¸CMW-Z800A

up/down-converter

Signal generator

3.2 Cabling between DUT and splitter

The cables required between the splitter and the DUT are not provided. The setup
between ­the R&S®CMW‑Z800A and the DUT depends on the number of antennas of the
DUT as well as the output power of the DUT.

The figures show the cabling for a DUT with one antenna and a DUT with two antennas
(see Fig. 3‑4 and Fig. 3‑5). If the DUT has more than two antennas, an additional splitter
(not provided) is required. Make sure that potential power levels in both directions are still
sufficient in this scenario.

Fig. 3‑4: DUT with one antenna

S
Load
resistor

4 2

Splitter

3 1

Fig. 3‑5: DUT with two antennas

4 2

Splitter

3 1

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 7

4 FREQUENCY RESPONSE CORRECTION
The R
­ &S®CMW‑Z800A up/down-converter shows frequency-dependent varia-
tions in attenuation and these variations need to be corrected. A remote control,
Python based script for R&S®Forum is included to help create the FDAC tables for the
­R&S®CMW‑Z800A. This table must be applied to the R&S®CMW during operation.

The procedure described below only corrects the frequency response for the up/down-
converter and one of the SMA-to-SMA cables to the splitter. It does not cover the
frequency response for the splitter and the second SMA-to-SMA cable or attenuation in
the cables between the splitter and the DUT. The splitter frequency response cannot be
measured because connecting two ports in the bidirectional splitter will lead to unpredict-
able reflections. Instead a static external attenuation value is used to compensate for the
frequency response in the splitter and cables (see chapter 6.2).

4.1 Preconditions for running the script

An external PC (or laptop) is needed to run the R&S®Forum script. Both R&S®Forum
and a virtual instrument software architecture (VISA) must be installed on the PC. The
R&S®CMW and the spectrum analyzer used to record the FDAC table must be remotely
accessible.

R&S®Forum is available for free and can be downloaded from the Rohde & Schwarz
homepage:
www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/applications/using-r-s-forum-application-for-­instrument-
remote-control-application-note_56280-50946.html?change_c=true

Follow the installation instructions to install R&S®Forum.

If not already on the PC, a VISA, such as the R&S®VISA, must be installed:
www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/applications/r-s-visa-application-note_56280-148812.html

The VISA resources must be configured in R&S®Forum (R&S®CMW and

­spectrum ­analyzer).

Fig. 4‑1: VISA configuration in R&S®Forum

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4.2 Frequency response correction procedure
The script runs in 5 MHz frequency steps from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz. The R&S®CMW
generator 1 (Gen1) generates a CW signal, which is measured in step 1 with a marker
measurement at the R&S®FSW. The R&S®CMW generator must generate the IF signal in
the 1125 MHz to 2325 MHz frequency range. In step 2, the R&S®CMW generates the IF
signal, which is looped back via the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A to the R&S®CMW analyzer, with
no additional spectrum analyzer needed.

The script creates two FDAC tables on the R&S®CMW, one for the TX signal (“To DUT”,
step 1 in chapter 4.2.1) and one for the RX signal (“From DUT”, step 2 in chapter 4.2.3).
After each step a verification will take place using the previously created FDAC table. The
verification should resemble a straight line near the set IF power level (default: –10 dBm).

4.2.1 Script parameters

4.2.1.1 Output directory

The default output folder for all generated files created is the folder in which the script
is located. The PC user account must have writing privileges for the folder to create
the files. If you want another output folder, amend the “dir_name” variable in the script
(see Fig. 4‑2).

Fig. 4‑2: Output file location

4.2.1.2 Adapting connectors according to the setup used

In the R&S®Forum script, the COM connectors must be adapted to the cabling for
the R&S®CMW hardware configuration. Default values will work for the three typical
R&S®CMW hardware configurations and their recommended cabling (as introduced in
chapter 3.1). The default values for COM connectors and converters are the following:
► IF connector: “RF2C”
► IF converter: “TX1”
► Input connector: “RF1C”
► Input converter: “RX1”

Only the LO signal generation used needs to be adapted depending on the setup.

The dual-channel R&S®CMW with two frontends:

► LO connector: “RF3O”
► LO converter: “TX2”

The R&S®Forum script was written for this setup using the R&S®CMW RF3OUT for the for
the LO signal of the R&S®CMW‑Z800A. No adaptation is needed.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 9

 Fig. 4‑3: Configuration of COM connectors and LO for the dual-channel R&S®CMW with two frontends

Adapt LO signal configuration if an R&S®CMW with one frontend or an external generator is used.

The dual-channel R&S®CMW with one frontend advanced:

► LO connector: “RF1O”
► LO converter: “TX2”

Fig. 4‑4: Configuration of COM connectors and LO for the dual-channel R&S®CMW with
one frontend advanced

The R&S®CMW with one frontend and one channel:

An external generator is required for the LO signal. In this case, it is necessary to disable
LO signal generation from the R&S®CMW LO within the script. If an external signal gen-
erator is used, manually check that the LO signal is on.

Fig. 4‑5: COM connector configuration for the R&S®CMW with one frontend and one TRX;
external LO generation

10
4.2.1.3 Generating FDAC for a single path
The script can solely run step 1 (set variable value of “direction” to “toDUT”) or solely
step 2 (set variable value of “direction” to “fromDUT”) or both steps (set variable value of
“direction” to “both”, see Fig 4‑6). The FDAC table created in step 1 is required for step 2.
It must be ensured that it is available on the R&S®CMW and valid.

Fig. 4‑6: Defining which FDAC tables need to be created

4.2.2 Step 1: level adjustment of the “To DUT” signal path

In the first step an FDAC table for correction of the “To DUT” path is created. An
R&S®FSW or similar spectrum analyzer with an upper frequency exceeding 7125 MHz is
required for this step. The R&S®Forum script provided was created with the R&S®FSW. If
another spectrum analyzer is used, the SCPI script might need to be adapted. Note that
this step cannot be carried out with a power sensor, because power sensors would make
broadband power measurements and not simply measure the wanted signal but also the
LO signal power.

Static external attenuation values must be used afterwards to compensate for the splitter
and cable that are not part of this setup (see chapter 6.2).

Instead of connecting the splitter and DUT to the to the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A, the spec-
trum analyzer must be connected to the “To DUT” connector of the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A
(see Fig. 4‑7). The cabling between the R&S®CMW and ­the R&S®CMW‑Z800A remains
unchanged for level adjustment and operation. See chapter 3.1 for the cabling require-
ments for different R&S®CMW hardware configurations.

Fig. 4‑7: Example setup for step 1 of level adjustment

CW at 4800 MHz, 7 dBm ¸CMW-Z800A

up/down-converter

Max.
0 dBm
PEP

Start execution of the R&S®Forum script by pressing the black start symbol in the menu.

Fig. 4‑8: Start the script

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 11

 The marker measurement on the spectrum analyzer appears while the script is running
(see Fig. 4‑9). The script will run in 5 MHz frequency steps from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz.
This may take a few minutes.

Fig. 4‑9: Screenshot of the R&S®FSW during step 1 of level adjustment

During step 1, the following output files are generated (file locations see chapter 4.2.1,
Fig. 4‑2), the files can help verify the results and troubleshoot any problems:
► All measurement frequencies will be saved in a file named
“cal_ToDUT_FreqList.txt”
► All power values measured by the spectrum analyzer will be saved in a file named
“cal_ToDUT_ValList.txt”.
► A file will be created that combines the frequency and power values needed to
generate the FDAC table with SCPI (CONF:BASE:FDC:CTAB:CRE). It is named
according to the COM port and TRX (e.g. “RF2C_TX1.txt”)
► The plotted frequency response is saved as “Fig1_Level_Adjustment_of_ToDUT.png”
(see Fig. 4‑10).

After the verification procedure of step 1, further output files are generated:
► All frequencies used for verification will be saved in a file named
“ver_ToDut_FreqList.txt”
► All power values measured with the spectrum analyzer will be saved in a file named
“ver_ToDut_ValList.txt”
► The plotted frequency response of the verification is saved as
“Fig2_Verification_of_ToDUT.png” (see Fig. 4‑11).

The FDAC table needed to compensate for the R ­ &S®CMW‑Z800A frequency response
is generated directly in the R&S®CMW (folder: D:\Rohde-Schwarz\CMW\Data\
FrequencyDependantAttenuationCorrectionTables) and named according to the connec-
tor and converter e.g. “RF2C_TX1.fda”.

The measured frequency response is plotted and displayed and should resemble
Fig. 4‑10.

12
Fig. 4‑10: Example of the original frequency response of
the R&S®CMW‑Z800A “To DUT” path

When the FDAC table created in the R&S®CMW is activated and the frequency response
remeasured for verification, a smooth line should be generated near the configured verifi-
cation level (variable “levVerification”, default value = –10 dBm).

Fig. 4‑11: Example verification plot of original (blue) and corrected (orange)
frequency response of the R&S®CMW‑Z800A “To DUT” path

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 13

 4.2.3 Step 2: recording FDAC for level adjustment of the “From DUT” signal path – l­oopback from
“To DUT” path to “From DUT” path
In step 2 a loopback is done and the FDAC table (compensating “From DUT” path)
created in this first step is used. This means that the first level adjustment step and verifi-
cation must be successful before step 2 can be done.

The FDAC table from step 1 is required for step 2 of the level adjustment.

Step 2 requires recabling. The R

­ &S®CMW‑Z800A “To DUT” and “From DUT” SMA con-
verters must be connected. No recabling is needed between the R&S®CMW and the
­R&S®CMW‑Z800A. A message box will appear requesting you to change the cabling
and press okay to start measuring. The script will run in 5 MHz frequency steps from
5925 MHz to 7125 MHz and take a few minutes.

Fig. 4‑12: Example setup for step 1, for a two channel R

­ &S®CMW with two frontends

CW at 4800 MHz, 7 dBm ¸CMW-Z800A

up/down-converter

Max. 0 dBm
PEP

Some output files are also generated during step 2 of the level adjustment (for location
see chapter 4.2.1, Fig. 4‑2):
► All frequencies used for the measurement will be saved in a file named
“cal_FromDUT_FreqList.txt”
► All power values measured with the R&S®CMW general purpose RF (GPRF) power
measurement will be saved in a file named “cal_FromDUT_ValList.txt”
► In addition, a file is saved that combines frequency and power values, since it is
required to generate the FDAC table via SCPI (CONF:BASE:FDC:CTAB:CRE). It is
named according to the COM port used and TRX used (e.g. “RF1C_RX1.txt”)
► The plotted frequency response is saved as
“Fig3_Level_Adjustment_of_FromDUT.png” (see Fig. 4‑13)

After verifying step 2, other output files are generated:

► All frequencies used for verification will be saved in a file named
“ver_FromDut_FreqList.txt”
► All power values measured with the spectrum analyzer will be saved in a file named
“ver_FromDut_ValList.txt”.
► The plotted frequency response of verification is saved as
“Fig4_Verification_of_FromDUT.png” (see Fig. 4‑14)

The FDAC table is also generated directly on the R&S®CMW for step 2
(folder: D:\Rohde-Schwarz\CMW\Data\FrequencyDependantAttenuationCorrectionTables),
and named according to the connector and converter used e.g. “RF1C_RX1.fda”.

14
Fig. 4‑13: Example of original frequency response of the R&S®CMW-Z800A
“From DUT” path

Fig. 4‑14: Example verification plot of original (blue) and corrected (orange)
frequency response of the R&S®CMW-Z800A “From DUT” path

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 15

5 DETERMINING THE REQUIRED EXTERNAL
ATTENUATOR
The maximal possible input level for the R
­ &S®CMW‑Z800A is 0 dBm PEP.

An external attenuator may have to be added to the DUT to avoid overloading the
­R&S®CMW‑Z800A. The required attenuator values depend on the DUT. Note that an
IEEE 802.11ax OFDM signal has a PEP of about 12 dB (PEP power = burst power +
12 dB). The easily adjustable static external attenuation setting can be used to compen-
sate for the external attenuator.

Typical signal power from the DUT in the conducted setup is 25 dBm to 30 dBm PEP.
The signal power is attenuated by the splitter and cables used, adding about 20 dB of
attenuation. Typically at least one 6 dB attenuator is required. Two 6 dB attenuators and
a 3 dB attenuator are supplied for higher DUT output power. Ideally, input power at the
R&S®CMW‑Z800A SMA connector labeled “From DUT” is just below 0 dBm PEP.

If the DUT output power is not known, all attenuators should be connected (see Fig. 5‑1)
and the best combination determined by measuring the power level (see chapter 5 to
setup a measurement). Note that if the power level is much too attenuated, associating
might not work.

When checking the power for the R­ &S®CMW‑Z800A “From DUT” SMA connector, please
note that the measured power values at the R&S®CMW are compensated using the FDAC
table for the “From DUT” path and external attenuation.

Fig. 5‑1: Using one of the 6 dB attenuators to reduce the signal level from the DUT to ≤ 0 dBm PEP
Load resistor

¸CMW-Z800A
Splitter
up/down-converter
6 dB
Max.
0 dBm
PEP

16
6 WLAN OPERATING
Required steps:
1. Activate FDAC tables, see chapter 6.1
2. Configure external attenuation to compensate for external splitter, attenuators and
cables, see chapter 6.2
3. Switch on LO signal, see chapter 6.3
4. Switch to 6 GHz band in WLAN signaling configuration, see chapter 6.4

6.1 Activating FDAC tables

Activate the FDAC tables generated for the R&S®CMW and the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A
(see chapter 4). Select “Settings” and navigate to “Freq. Dep. Corr. Table” (see Fig. 6‑1).
The entries in the FDAC table will show correction values in 5 dB frequency steps for IF
frequencies ranging from 1125 MHz to 2325 MHz.

Fig. 6‑1: The R&S®CMW menu to configure frequency dependent attenuation correction tables

Press “Act./Deac.” button to activate the previously created FDAC tables and compensate
for the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A. If default connectors need to be used, the tables are named
“RF2C_TX1” and “RF1C_RX1” and must be activated as seen in Fig. 6‑2.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 17

 Fig. 6‑2: Applying FDAC tables

After the FDAC tables have been activated, check the displayed mapping to ensure the
configuration was carried out correctly (see Fig. 6‑3).

Fig. 6‑3: Activated FDAC tables

6.2 External attenuation configuration

The external splitter, attenuators and cables to the DUT are not part of the recorded val-
ues for level adjustment and therefore require additional compensation. The splitter and
cable frequency responses have already been analyzed. A constant value applies for the
relatively small frequency range between 5925 MHz and 7125 MHz.

The 0.4 m SMA-to-SMA cables provided have an attenuation of about 0.88 dB at

7.125 GHz. One of the cables was used in the level adjustment and is covered by the
FDAC tables. The 0.88 dB only need to be added to compensate from the DUT to the
R&S®CMW. For the splitter a constant attenuation value of 19.5 dB can be assumed. The
cables between the splitter and the DUT are not provided as they are DUT specific. The
attenuation must be determined and added to the external attenuation in both directions.

External attenuation RF output = 19.5 dB + cable from splitter to DUT

External attenuation RF input = 0.88 dB + attenuators + 19.5 dB + cable from splitter to DUT

18
To enter the external attenuation press “Config” and navigate to “RF Settings”
(see Fig. 6‑4).

Fig. 6‑4: Example for external attenuation setting

If a correction table is activated for a connector, the correction value for the current car-
rier frequency and the frequency-independent “External Attenuation” defined in the
settings will be added.

6.3 Activating CW signal for LO

The LO signal needs to be manually activated as it cannot be done automatically. If the
R&S®CMW is generating the LO signal, the following steps are required:
► Select connector
► Enter frequency: 4800 MHz
► Enter level (RMS): 7 dB
► Select baseband mode: CW

Fig. 6‑5: CMW generator configuration: LO configuration

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 19

 6.4 Signaling
The “6 GHz” band must be selected in the R&S®CMW WLAN signaling firmware. The
expected DUT frequency can be entered in the frequency field. The R&S®CMW will auto-
matically generate the appropriate IF signal. This function requires the a
­ ppropriate WLAN
firmware version.

Fig. 6‑6a: WLAN signaling switching to the 6 GHz band

Fig. 6‑6b: WLAN signaling for DUT in the 6 GHz band

20
6.4.1 Measurement
Since the application cannot measure at the same frequency as the DUT transmission,
it uses the down converted signal from the ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A. The measurement shows
the actual measurement frequency and not the DUT frequency. The measurement is used
in the combined signal path and automatically sets to the lower frequency.

Fig. 6‑7: WLAN measurement at 1155 MHz

The DUT is transmitting at 5955 MHz, which is down converted to 1155 MHz

6.4.2 General information about performing measurements with signaling

6.4.2.1 Packet generator configuration

Some DUTs do not transmit signals with high modulation/high bandwidths, since lower
bandwidths can be used to transmit the required data quantities. We offer three packet
generators and the option of reducing the timing interval to generate more data.

If these options are still not sufficient, the time interval can also be set to 0, making suf-
ficient frames always available to maximize TX A-MPDU size. If ICMP is the payload, the
same amount of traffic should come back from the DUT. Sometimes one packet genera-
tor and time interval = 0 is better than two or three packet generators. You can try it out
but the outcome can vary depending on the DUT. Keep in mind that configuring the ICMP
generator to 0 creates a huge amount of data and some DUTs will not be able to cope.

Fig. 6‑8: Configuring the packet generator

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 21

 6.4.2.2 Ensure there is a signal
After the ICMP packet generator is switched on, check to make sure HE modulated data
frames from the DUT are being received. So, check the RX statistic in the signaling win-
dow, where you can see which data bursts are currently being received. “RX Statistics/
Data Rate” displays the most recent and commonly received data frames. Ack frames are
not included. Received data is evaluated every half a second. The most frequent value for
frames accumulated in the interval is selected. The display is only updated if the value dif-
fers from the previous value.

Fig. 6‑9: RX statistic showing which data frames have been received recently

6.4.2.3 RX frame trigger setting

The DUT may jump between different modulations, making it difficult to get a stable mea-
surement and analyze the results. To overcome this problem you should set the RX frame
trigger to a single rate. Note that the DUT must transmit at this rate. This setting has
nothing to do with forcing the DUT into a specific MCS (= rate restriction).

Fig. 6‑10: RX frame trigger configuration

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7 ABBREVIATIONS
Term Explanation
Ack frames acknowledge frames
CW continuous wave
DUT device under test
FDAC frequency dependent attenuation correction
GPRF general purpose RF
IF intermediate frequency
LO local oscillator
MCS modulation coding scheme
PEP peak envelope power
RMS root mean square
RX receiver
SCPI standard commands for programmable instruments
SMA cable subminiature version A cable
TRX transceiver (transmitter and receiver)
TX transmitter
U-NII unlicensed national information infrastructure
VISA virtual instrument software architecture
WLAN wireless local area network

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 23

8 SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications
Environmental conditions
Temperature operating temperature range +5 °C to +45 °C
storage temperature range –40 °C to +70 °C
Power supply
AC input rated voltage 100 V to 240 V AC (±10 %)
rated frequency 50 Hz to 60 Hz (±5 %)
1 A/115 V AC,
rated current
0.5 A/230 V AC
power consumption approx. 2 W
energy efficiency class VI
Length of DC supply cable approx. 1 m
Product conformity of power supply
EU: in line with EMC Directive EN 55032, Class B,
Electromagnetic compatibility
2014/30/EC industrial environment
EU: in line with Low Voltage
Electrical safety EN 62368-1
Directive 2014/35/EC
global certificates: USA, Canada,
International safety approvals cULus, PSE, KC, CCC, GS-Mark
Korea, Japan, China, Europe
DC interface DC voltage 12 V
current 165 mA
RF interfaces
LO In LO input N female connector
frequency 4800 MHz
power level > +7 dBm, max. +13 dBm
RF1COM IF to R&S®CMW N female connector
frequency range 1125 MHz to 2325 MHz
RF2COM IF from R&S®CMW N female connector
frequency range 1125 MHz to 2325 MHz
To DUT SMA female connector
frequency range 5.925 GHz to 7.2 GHz
output power max. –20 dBm
From DUT SMA female connector
frequency range 5.925 GHz to 7.2 GHz
max. input power 0 dBm PEP
TX path conversion gain approx. +6 dB
RX path conversion gain approx. –10 dB
General data
271.6 mm × 219.5 mm × 39.7 mm
Dimensions W × H × D, overall
(10.7 in × 8.6 in × 1.6 in)
Weight approx. 1.35 kg (2.98 lb)

24
9 MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Only use the original R&S®CMW‑Z800A power supply.

Make sure the power levels for the DUT and the coaxial connectors on the
up/down-converter box are appropriate. Overloading may damage the device and void
the warranty.

Contact your local Rohde & Schwarz service office or sales office if there are any
problems.

9.1 Troubleshooting

Behavior Check Action

► Check connection of all coaxial
RF signals too low cables
► Check settings of R&S®CMW
► Check LO frequency signal from
Wrong frequencies in DUT
R&S®CMW
Conversion gain too low or ► Check settings and cabling
► If possible, try another
too high ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A
► Check if the POWER LED of the
No RF signals at all
power supply is on
► Screw on the coaxial cables
► Replace defective coaxial cable
► Set correct levels on R&S®CMW
► Set correct LO frequency in
R&S®CMW
► ­R&S®CMW‑Z800A might be
defective, contact your local
Rohde & Schwarz service office
► Connect power supply to mains
► Replace power supply

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by ­Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Rohde & Schwarz is under license.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 25

10 R&S®CMW MODELS
R&S®CMW500
The all-in-one test platform
The R&S®CMW500 wideband radio communication tester is the universal test ­platform
for RF ­integration and protocol development. The R&S®CMW500 ­includes a fully
­integrated end-to-end (E2E) data solution that permits comprehensive IP through-
put and ­quality ­measurements. The R&S®CMW500 can be used in all phases – from
­product development to production to s­ ervice. It is the solution with the widest range of
­supported technologies.

26
R&S®CMW270
The expert for all ­non‑cellular technologies
The R&S®CMW270 wireless connectivity tester is a cost-effective ­alternative for
­development, ­production and service. The non‑cellular ­specialist offers features
­comparable to those of the R&S®CMW500. It supports Bluetooth®, WLAN and
broadcast technologies.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter 27


Service that adds value
► Worldwide
► Local und personalized
► Customized and flexible
► Uncompromising quality
► Long-term dependability
Rohde & Schwarz
The Rohde & Schwarz electronics group offers innovative
solutions in the following business fields: test and mea-
surement, broadcast and media, secure communications,
cybersecurity, monitoring and network testing. Founded
more than 80 years ago, the independent company which
is headquartered in Munich, Germany, has an extensive
sales and service network with locations in more than
70 countries.
www.rohde-schwarz.com
Sustainable product design
► Environmental compatibility and eco-footprint
► Energy efficiency and low emissions
► Longevity and optimized total cost of ownership
Certified Quality Management Certified Environmental Management
ISO 9001 ISO 14001
Rohde & Schwarz training
www.training.rohde-schwarz.com
Rohde & Schwarz customer support
www.rohde-schwarz.com/support
3608630232
R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
Trade names are trademarks of the owners
3608.6302.32 03.00 PDP 1 en
PD 3608.6302.32 | Version 03.00 | August 2020 (ch)
R&S®CMW-Z800A Up/Down-Converter
Data without tolerance limits is not binding | Subject to change
© 2020 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG | 81671 Munich, Germany