New software from Rohde & Schwarz is the first that can analyze DOCSIS 3.1 signals

09/01/2014

Rohde & Schwarz is the first company that offers a solution for analyzing DOCSIS 3.1 signals. Cable TV network operators and manufacturers of cable TV network components can use the R&S DSA DOCSIS snapshot analysis software and the R&S FSW high-end spectrum analyzer to carry out performance measurements. The software makes it possible to quickly and reliably characterize downstream signals of up to 192 MHz.

The data over cable service interface specifications (DOCSIS) 3.1 provide fast data transmission over hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) networks. To prepare for the planned rollout of the standard, manufacturers of cable headends, cable modems and network components as well as cable TV network operators can now use the R&S DSA analysis software. Rohde & Schwarz is the first supplier that enables users to perform high-quality BER and MER measurements on real-life DOCSIS 3.1 signals.

The R&S DSA software works in combination with the R&S FSW high-end signal and spectrum analyzer, which records the signals using OFDM vector signal analysis software. Rohde & Schwarz is the market leader in OFDM signal generation and analysis for broadcasting. The R&S FSW is the only signal and spectrum analyzer on the market that provides an analysis bandwidth of 320 MHz. It can therefore be optimally adapted to different signal levels and bandwidths. R&S DSA analyzes the I/Q samples recorded by the R&S FSW and outputs diverse MER values as well as bit and codeword error statistics that comprehensively describe the quality of a DOCSIS 3.1 signal. The R&S DSA software provides a straightforward graphical display of MER vs. subcarrier to allow easy detection of interferers and other negative influences in the transmission channel.

The analysis solution from Rohde & Schwarz is optimized for use in the research and development of cable TV network components. It allows the signal quality of modulators for the DOCSIS 3.1 downstream to be tested when developing cable headends. For cable TV network components, the analysis software makes general performance measurements. The software is also able to measure complete network segments under lab conditions. These measurements can be performed using the R&S CLGD DOCSIS cable load generator, which was launched by Rohde & Schwarz in May 2014 as the world's first DOCSIS 3.1 signal generator on the market.

The R&S DSA DOCSIS snapshot analysis software for the R&S FSW high-end signal and spectrum analyzer is now available from Rohde & Schwarz.

Rohde & Schwarz, www.rohde-schwarz.com