Japanese test specialist Anritsu has validated the first NTN NB-IoT protocol conformance tests for the ME7834NR 5G NR mobile device test platform powered by Sony’s Altair device.

NTN NB-IoT is a key IoT feature that is useful in cases where the devices need to be deployed in remote regions without terrestrial cell network coverage. This is especially useful for asset tracking in maritime, logistics, mining, automotive and other areas.

“3GPP release 17, which is described as the next stage for 5G and LTE, NTN enables new use cases and monetisation opportunities for vertical industry segments,” said Kameda Keiji, general manager at Anritsu. “We are proud that our collaboration with Sony enables us to help the industry validate the new features quickly to market and enable certifications in GCF and PTCRB to bring certified devices to enable new applications.”

The conformance tests are defined by 3GPP in TS 36.523-1 corresponding to core requirements in TS 36.331 and have been submitted to 3GPP Radio Access Network Working Group 5 (RAN WG5) by Anritsu.

“We are thrilled about our partnership with Anritsu,” said Christophe Flechelle, system engineering director at Sony. “By establishing a certification programme for NTN, we’re paving the way for faster integration of crucial satellite technologies into tracking devices and wearables. This collaboration marks a significant step towards technological advancement and widespread adoption in the industry.”

The ME7834NR platform is registered with both the GCF and PTCRB as Test Platform 251. It is a test platform for 3GPP-based protocol conformance test (PCT) and carrier acceptance testing (CAT) of mobile devices incorporating multiple radio access technologies. It supports 5G NR in both standalone and non-standalone in addition to LTE, LTE-Advanced, LTE-A Pro, W-CDMA and, now, NTN. When combined with Anritsu’s MA8171A OTA RF chamber and RF converters, the ME7834NR covers the sub-6GHz and millimetre wave 5G NR frequency bands.

Anritsu (www.anritsu.com) develops products for 5G, M2M and IoT, as well as other emerging and legacy wireline and wireless communication markets. With offices throughout the world, it has approximately 4000 employees in more than 90 countries.