US: Tektronix announced the latest addition to its industry leading base station field test tool. The new feature enables over-the-air (OTA) analysis measurements for Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA) via the most flexible toolbox on the market.

Third-generation (3G) mobile communications networks require significantly more Node-Bs (base stations) than second-generation (2G) networks. As such, field technicians must be able to "scan" multiple neighboring base stations for interference that may affect network performance. Tektronix' NetTek(R) Field Tool is the market leading handheld instrument used for base station troubleshooting, and today adds the W-CDMA Scrambling Code Analyzer, Option WS1, to enable OTA measurements for quick identification of problems in 3G networks.

"With W-CDMA networks beginning to go live around the globe, network operators must be equipped to provide the best possible quality of service to their customers without increasing the cost of operation," said Mark Kulper, General Manager, Wireless Field Test, Tektronix. "By adding the scrambling code analysis capability to the NetTek field tool, Tektronix is enabling operators to effectively install and maintain their 3G networks."

Scrambling Code Analysis Critical in 3G Networks

Each sector within a W-CDMA Node-B uses a different scrambling code, and technicians need to be able to identify and "source" these codes as a first step to locate any interference problem. With the NetTek's new Scrambling Code Analyzer, technicians can quickly identify different scrambling codes, analyze power levels and determine the relative strength of network signals. As such, maintenance technicians can easily evaluate co-channel interference and any changes from neighboring base stations. In the case of installation, the Scrambling Code Analyzer can determine the effect of making changes to, or adding, a base station to their network.

With Tektronix' NetTek field tool, which is recognized for its flexibility, light weight and modularity, technicians can easily walk about the base station and perform "pollution" analysis -- including power levels of the potentially interfering base station -- enabling the technician to detect the approximate direction from which the interfering pilot signals are coming and address any network interference immediately.

About The NetTek Field Tool

The NetTek BTS field tool is a rugged portable platform with multi- standard measurement capability. The NetTek fills the gap between expensive, full-compliance testing tools and low-cost instruments designed to perform only one measurement. The instrument's modular architecture supports a range of BTS transmitter measurements for standards including UMTS/W-CDMA, cdmaOne (IS-95), cdma2000, cdma2000 1x EV-DO, GSM and IS-136. The instrument's Windows-based user interface simplifies operation in the field. The compact battery-powered tool, which weighs just over 12 lbs (4 kg), is to transport to remote sites. In addition, the NetTek platform is unique in the industry by virtue of its ability to address antenna, backhaul (T1) and RF test requirements.