Ensuring Seamless Wireless Connectivity with OTA Testing
Polaris Market Research & Consulting, Inc.
Market Research | Industry Analysis
In an era where wireless connectivity is the backbone of technological advancements, ensuring optimal performance is crucial. Over-the-air (OTA) testing has emerged as a fundamental process to evaluate the real-world performance of wireless devices, from smartphones and IoT devices to automotive systems and smart infrastructure. As 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and upcoming 6G technologies continue to expand, OTA testing plays a critical role in ensuring reliability, compliance, and optimal user experience.
By simulating various signal environments, OTA testing evaluates a device's antenna and receiver performance, ensuring compliance with industry standards and enhancing user experience. In this blog, we will explain to you the basics of OTA testing and its importance in ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. Also, we’ll shed light on the key OTA parameters, top OTA companies and what does the future holds for it. Continue reading!
What is OTA Testing?
OTA testing is?a method used to evaluate the performance and reliability of wireless devices by simulating real-world usage scenarios, assessing how they communicate wirelessly through the airwaves, and measuring their radio frequency (RF) performance without direct cable connections. It helps in?identifying potential issues like signal degradation or interference that might not be apparent in standard lab testing. It is crucial for ensuring wireless devices like smartphones, IoT gadgets, and vehicles meet industry standards and function effectively in various environment.
Why is OTA Testing Important?
Ensuring Device Compliance
Many global regulatory bodies, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), mandate OTA testing for device certification.
Optimizing Antenna Performance
The efficiency of an antenna directly affects a device’s connectivity, battery life, and data speed. OTA testing helps refine antenna design for optimal performance.
Supporting 5G and IoT Technology Growth
As networks become denser and devices more interconnected, OTA testing ensures smooth deployment and reliable operation of next-generation technologies.
Key Parameters in OTA Testing
OTA testing measures several critical parameters, including:
Total Radiated Power (TRP): Evaluates how efficiently a device transmits signals in all directions.
Total Isotropic Sensitivity (TIS): Measures the weakest signal a device can receive while maintaining a stable connection.
Throughput Performance: Tests the speed and reliability of data transmission under different conditions.
Multi-Antenna System Testing: Crucial for 5G and MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) systems, which rely on multiple antennas for improved connectivity.
Top Companies in OTA Testing
Founded: 1937
Headquarters: Santa Rosa, California, USA
Keysight Technologies is a technology hardware and equipment company that provides electronic design and test solution. Keysight provides a wide range of electronic design and test solutions, including advanced OTA testing systems that cater to the evolving needs of wireless communication. The company originally started as the electronic test and measurement division of HP and later Agilent Technologies. In March 2024, Keysight Technologies, along with ETS-Lindgren, introduced a groundbreaking OTA test solution for devices that use narrowband non-terrestrial networks. This advancement enables satellite-based cellular communication, with the goal of improving coverage in isolated regions.
2.?Rohde & Schwarz
Founded: 1933
Headquarters: Munich, Germany
Rohde & Schwarz is a privately owned company that specializes in test and measurement, broadcasting, and cybersecurity. The company has a global presence with subsidiaries in around 60 countries. Rohde & Schwarz offers various services, including?calibration, repair, and support for their electronic products.
Emerging Technologies in OTA Testing
5G and Beyond
With 5G networks utilizing high-frequency millimeter waves and beamforming technology, traditional testing methods are insufficient. OTA testing is essential to ensure devices function seamlessly across different frequency bands and maintain high-speed data transmission with minimal latency.
Automotive and V2X Communication
Modern vehicles incorporate advanced communication technologies such as Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), requiring extensive OTA testing to ensure reliable connectivity for navigation, safety, and autonomous driving systems.
IoT and Smart Devices
The Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem relies on millions of connected devices operating under various network conditions. OTA testing ensures these devices can function efficiently in diverse environments without interference.
What Does Future Holds for OTA Testing?
As wireless technologies continue to evolve, OTA testing will become even more critical. The shift towards 6G, increased reliance on satellite communication, and the expansion of IoT ecosystems will require more sophisticated testing methodologies. With the companies investing in AI-driven automation, advanced simulation tools, and real-time analytics will lead the next wave of OTA testing innovations. As connectivity standards become more stringent, businesses and manufacturers must prioritize OTA testing to maintain product quality, regulatory compliance, and a superior user experience.