Keysight and Virginia Diodes Advance mmWave Testing with Portable Solutions for Engineers

Revolutionizing mmWave Testing: Keysight Technologies and Virginia Diodes Partnership

Keysight Technologies, Inc. enhances its FieldFox handheld signal analyzers, making significant strides in the realm of millimeter-wave (mmWave) signal analysis. In collaboration with Virginia Diodes Inc. (VDI), Keysight introduces support for mmWave frequencies up to 170 GHz, catering to critical applications in sectors such as telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and automotive radar. This advancement is particularly notable as mmWave signals are highly sensitive to environmental conditions, necessitating precise measurements for the development of dependable communication networks and systems.

The integration of VDI’s PSAX frequency extenders with Keysight’s A- and B-Series FieldFox analyzers transforms how engineers conduct testing in the field. Traditionally, professionals in these sectors have depended on bulky and expensive desktop analyzers, which are often impractical for on-site applications. The FieldFox analyzers, however, are portable and lightweight, weighing less than 4 kg, allowing engineers to perform efficient field testing without sacrificing measurement accuracy. This mobility is crucial for engineers who need to conduct measurements in diverse and often challenging environments, making the FieldFox a game-changer in the industry.

Furthermore, the collaboration enables a broader frequency range for both signal analysis and generation, extending from 18 GHz to 170 GHz. The system boasts various operational modes, including spectrum analyzer mode, and provides exceptional sensitivity of -155 dBm/Hz. This combination not only enhances measurement capabilities but also reduces costs significantly, offering a more economical solution compared to conventional mmWave testing equipment. As Dr. Thomas W. Crowe, CEO of VDI, notes, this partnership enhances the capabilities of microwave tools by extending their frequency reach, thereby improving overall measurement performance.

In addition to the advancements in portable testing, this collaboration emphasizes the ongoing innovation within the mmWave testing sector. The enhanced FieldFox analyzers' ability to provide real-time spectrum analysis contributes to the growing demand for reliable testing solutions in fast-evolving fields like 5G and 6G technology. As industries increasingly rely on high-frequency signals for their operations, the need for compact yet powerful measurement tools continues to rise.

As Keysight Technologies solidifies its position as a leader in mmWave testing solutions, the collaboration with VDI not only improves measurement efficiency but also paves the way for future advancements in the field. This partnership showcases the industry's commitment to addressing the challenges associated with high-frequency signal analysis, ultimately supporting engineers in their pursuit of innovation across various applications.