Optimise 5G & LTE Networks with the SHA860A Signal & Spectrum Analyser
Deploying and maintaining high-performance 5G and LTE networks demands precise measurement tools. The SHA860A Signal & Spectrum Analyser offers a comprehensive suite of capabilities designed for network validation, optimisation, and troubleshooting.
5G NR OTA Measurement
During the deployment of 5G base stations, an accurate assessment of network quality and beam performance is essential. The SHA860A’s 5G NR OTA mode demodulates signals to extract key parameters—frequency, physical cell identity (PCI), SSB index, frequency error, and error vector magnitude (EVM) for the SSB portion—visualised via intuitive constellation diagrams. This functionality is critical for optimising 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) deployments, ensuring seamless coordination between LTE and 5 G.
LTE TDD/FDD OTA Measurement
The LTE OTA testing feature provides a complete set of demodulation metrics, including PCI, sector ID, cell group, frequency error, time offset, synchronisation status, and power levels (PSS/SSS/CRS/PBCH), along with EVM measurements and constellation diagrams. By analysing signal quality, channel performance, and interference across multiple cells, technicians can implement targeted strategies to improve network efficiency and end-user experience.
Real-Time Spectrum Analysis
Equipped with a 110 MHz real-time bandwidth and a processing speed of 300,000 FFTs/s, the SHA860A captures transient signals as short as 3.51 µs at a 100% Probability of Intercept (POI). Advanced analysis tools—including frequency mask triggering (FMT), Density, 3D, Spectrogram, and Power vs. Time (PvT) displays—allow for a multidimensional assessment of complex signals, making them ideal for interference hunting and spectrum monitoring in dynamic 5G environments.
Cable and Antenna Testing
Component faults can compromise base station performance, causing coverage gaps and degraded signal strength. The SHA860A streamlines maintenance with rapid single-port measurements for cable loss, return/insertion loss, VSWR, and distance-to-fault. An optional upgrade adds 1-Path 2-Port vector network analyser functionality, supporting S11/S21 testing, Smith chart visualisation, and a 114 dB dynamic range for precise amplitude and phase response analysis.
Pulse Profile Analysis
With 10,001 measurement points, the SHA860A pulse analysis function evaluates power, pulse transitions, and signal characteristics across multiple detection modes (positive/negative peak, sample, average, conventional). This ensures rigorous validation of RF device performance under real-world conditions.
IQ Data Acquisition
The SHA860A also excels in IQ data acquisition, featuring 1 GB of RAM, a 300 MHz sample rate, and a 110 MHz bandwidth. This combination delivers unmatched performance and portability for field data collection. IQ data can be transmitted or stored via USB or LAN for offline analysis, signal reproduction, and detailed spectrum visualisation.
Indoor/Outdoor Mapping
Identifying 5G/LTE coverage areas is essential for network optimisation. The SHA860A’s indoor/outdoor mapping feature enables technicians to locate base stations, track antenna orientation and height, and pinpoint areas with weak coverage or high interference. With GPS-locked data logging and playback accuracy of ±0.01 ppm, it simplifies network analysis and optimisation across both indoor and outdoor environments.
The SHA860A Signal & Spectrum Analyser provides a versatile, high-performance solution for 5G and LTE network deployment, testing, and optimisation. Its combination of OTA measurement, spectrum analysis, pulse profiling, and mapping capabilities empowers operators and technicians to ensure robust, high-quality network performance at every stage.