#Canada #Ottawa #VIAVI Solutions #5G NTN #Square Peg

Introduction

Square Peg Communications, recognized for its pioneering work in satellite communications, has recently announced a strategic partnership with VIAVI Solutions. This collaboration aims to advance testing capabilities for the emerging market of 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN), an area that is becoming increasingly vital as satellite and terrestrial communications continue to merge.

The Need for Advanced Testing in 5G NTN

As the telecommunications landscape evolves, particularly with the introduction of 5G NTN, network operators, device manufacturers, and infrastructure providers face unique challenges. Unlike traditional terrestrial mobile networks, 5G NTN presents new performance requirements. These include managing significant Doppler frequency shifts, enduring long propagation delays, and ensuring seamless handovers between moving satellites. The integration of these components necessitates a robust testing environment to validate performance and interoperability.

Harnessing Expertise

The collaboration harnesses the strengths of both companies. Square Peg has extensive expertise in satellite communications and channel emulation, backed by years of experience in addressing complex networking challenges. In contrast, VIAVI Solutions is a leader in wireless testing, possessing deep knowledge in the evolution of 3GPP technologies from 3G to 5G and beyond. The combination allows developers to use the Square Peg RLS-2100 emulator, which recreates physical channel conditions, alongside the VIAVI TM500 Network Tester for simulating user equipment, effectively bringing a realistic testing environment to life.

Quotes from the Leaders

Ian Langley, Senior Vice President at VIAVI, emphasized the growing demand for reliable testing environments. He noted, “As commercial interest in Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity, low Earth orbit constellations, and integrated terrestrial-space networks continues to accelerate, robust test environments are becoming essential for successful deployment.” Langley’s perspective underscores the partnership's purpose: fostering innovative solutions to mitigate risks during product development, ultimately speeding up the time to market.

In addition, Michael Gertsman, President of Square Peg Communications, mentioned, “Our partnership with VIAVI combines our trusted satcom expertise with their reputable wireless testing capability. Together, we are uniquely positioned to support the next wave of 5G NTN deployment.” This alignment of expertise indicates a promising future for reliable NTN solutions.

Tailored Testing Solutions

The joining of Square Peg and VIAVI’s capabilities enables a breadth of testing applications, including:

• - Testing gNodeB and network infrastructure
• - Validating 5G NTN New Radio (NR) specifications
• - Emulating satellite channel characteristics and mobility scenarios
• - Assessing beam and satellite handover protocols
• - Validating hybrid terrestrial/NTN service continuity
• - Conducting pre-certification and standards-based verifications

These offerings collectively contribute to developing an end-to-end NTN test platform that can provide substantial insights into network performance and resilience.

Commitment to the Industry

Both companies are committed to ensuring the validation of next-generation NTN systems' performance and interoperability. Shaping the future of connectivity involves advancing the technology landscape while ensuring that products meet rigorous standards and consumer expectations.

Conclusion

As Square Peg Communications and VIAVI Solutions embark on this strategic journey together, the telecommunications industry can look forward to enhanced capabilities in 5G NTN testing. This partnership not only represents a significant step in technological advancement but also embodies a holistic approach to overcoming the unique challenges posed by satellite communications in the world of 5G.

Learn more about this innovative collaboration by visiting Square Peg Communications.