Rohde & Schwarz Advances 5G Satellite Conformance Testing

5G is no longer confined to terrestrial infrastructure. As operators and equipment vendors push to extend coverage to remote regions, non-terrestrial networks (NTN) are becoming an essential part of the roadmap. Rohde & Schwarz has taken a step forward by successfully verifying the first NR-NTN test cases in collaboration with Tier 1 chipset suppliers. These tests, conducted in line with 3GPP specifications, form part of the certification process required before commercial rollout of satellite-based 5G can begin.

Why Conformance Testing Matters

Global interoperability depends on strict adherence to standards. For NTN, the Global Certification Forum (GCF) and the PCS Type Certification Review Board (PTCRB) have defined WI-555 (Work Item) and RFT 555 (Request for Testing) under the 3GPP framework. These cover RF, radio resource management (RRM), and protocol conformance (PCT). Ensuring compliance through formal testing guarantees that devices and networks will work reliably across different vendors, satellites, and geographies.

Rohde & Schwarz Test Platforms

The initial NR-NTN cases were executed on the R&S TS8980 Conformance Test Platform, R&S TS-RRM, and the R&S CMX500 one-box signaling tester. This setup provides not only conformance verification but also early-stage R&D support, thanks to integrated fading and channel emulation tools. The CMX500 can even model satellite constellations directly, allowing developers to visualise orbital paths and link conditions within the same test environment.

A successful validation of WI-555 and RFT 555 by GCF and PTCRB will activate the new test items, clearing the way for official conformance testing of NR-NTN devices in frequency range 1 (FR1). That milestone will be critical to moving from laboratory demonstrations to certified, commercial satellite 5G networks.

Paving the Way for Commercial NTN Services

By taking a proactive role and working directly with chipset vendors, Rohde & Schwarz is helping accelerate the NTN ecosystem. Early availability of validated test cases means equipment makers can design with confidence, and operators can prepare for deployments in underserved regions where terrestrial coverage is not practical.

As non-terrestrial networks move closer to commercial reality, test solutions like the CMX500 and TS8980 will underpin a new generation of reliable 5G satellite services.

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