The realm of communication networks is expanding beyond traditional boundaries with the evolution of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs). These innovative systems bridge communication gaps across land, sea, and air, offering seamless connectivity via terrestrial and satellite-based networks. Leading this change, Anritsu offers state-of-the-art solutions to address the obstacles and unleash the potential of mobile and IoT devices enabled by NTN.
Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) have emerged as a transformative force in global connectivity, redefining how devices communicate across vast distances. From their foundational design in 3GPP’s Release 17 to the anticipated advancements in Release 18, NTNs are evolving to incorporate higher-frequency bands like the Ka-band, enhancing data transmission and reliability. This progression ensures consistent, uninterrupted communication even in remote or underserved regions. By bridging the gap between terrestrial and satellite systems, NTNs empower industries with robust solutions for emergency services, autonomous operations, and global mobility, paving the way for a connected world where geographic boundaries no longer limit innovation.
What Are NTNs?
According to 3GPP’s Release 17 specifications, NTNs link mobile users with IoT devices worldwide without making a distinction between satellites and terrestrial base stations. As Release 18 continues to progress, NTNs will be able to incorporate higher-frequency bands, such as the Ka-band, to significantly improve communication. Even in the most remote regions of the globe, dependable communication is ensured by this advancement.
Key Use Cases of NTNs
NTNs are categorized into two primary standards: NTN NB-IoT and NTN NR, each tailored for specific use cases:
NTN NB-IoT (4G-based):
• Emergency Services: Sending emergency calls and short messages during infrastructure failures.
• Remote Monitoring: Collecting non-real-time data in industries like agriculture, construction, and shipping.
NTN NR (5G-based):
• Autonomous Systems: Supporting remote operation of heavy machinery and autonomous vehicles.
• Impeccable Mobility: Delivering high-speed communication on trains, airplanes, and ships. With their capability to extend communication to areas where terrestrial networks cannot reach, NTNs are revolutionizing connectivity across industries.
Challenges in Developing NTN Devices
There are obstacles in the way of creating effective NTN devices. There are two main difficulties:
Delay and Frequency Shift:
• The distance between satellites and devices introduces communication delays, varying by satellite type (e.g., GEO vs. LEO).
• Movement of non-GEO satellites causes a Doppler shift in signal frequency, necessitating compensation mechanisms.
Reselection and Roaming:
• Devices must seamlessly switch between terrestrial and satellite networks, following complex 3GPP standards for reselection and roaming.
• Crossing international borders often involves switching operators, requiring compliance with global roaming standards.
Anritsu’s NTN Test Solutions
Anritsu empowers developers with robust tools to overcome NTN challenges, ensuring error-free integration and high-quality performance of NTN-enabled devices.
RF TRx Testing:
The Radio Communication Analyzer MT8821C offers a 3GPP-compliant RF TRx test environment, providing precise, flexible parameter settings for optimal device performance.
Protocol Testing:
The Signaling Tester MD8430A replicates satellite connection environments, enabling developers to test reselection and roaming protocols efficiently.
Conformance Testing:
Devices must meet the latest 3GPP standards for market readiness. Anritsu’s solutions, including the New Radio RF Conformance Test System ME7873NR and 5G NR Mobile Device Test Platform ME7834NR, accelerate product validation and time-to-market.
The emergence of non-terrestrial networks signifies a revolution in international communication. Anritsu’s creative solutions guarantee that NTN devices fulfill their promise of continuous, worldwide connectivity by tackling difficult problems including latency, frequency changes, and efficient reselection. Anritsu offers the resources needed to fully utilize NTNs, whether you’re an engineer developing innovative IoT solutions or a telecom specialist creating next-generation mobile networks.
With NTNs bridging the communication divide and Anritsu driving the technology, the future of connectivity is boundless.
Apex Waves is your leading supplier for legacy test equipment. Whether you’re looking for an obsolete part, selling your surplus, or interested in resources such as blogs and how-to guides, we’ve got you covered! Browse our website to learn more or contact us to receive a quote.
A monthly email packed with valuable content—industry news, tutorials, obsolescence updates, and more. No sales pitches, just insights we think you'll find helpful!
The National Instruments PXI-5441 is a powerful PXI waveform generator designed to support high-speed waveform downloads up...
Companies in almost every industry are being transformed by artificial intelligence, and autonomous machines are...
The PXIe Platform from National Instruments offers an incredibly valuable toolset for test and measurement innovation. Its...
It is no secret that simulation and testing is an important part of designing circuits....
