Bluetooth Testing Solutions | Anritsu Asia Pacific

High-quality connectivity with low energy by Bluetooth Technology

IoT applications/user cases for new Bluetooth 5 which will impact IoT

Bluetooth® technology is used for a wireless communication with low power consumption and low cost features. Bluetooth technology is widely used in consumer products that users carry around and use for long periods of time, including smartphones, PC peripherals, audio equipment, and wearable devices. The use of this technology is also growing in industrial applications, such as electric shelf labels used in warehouses and asset tracking, earning it a solid position in the IoT field.

The Bluetooth standard has evolved over time, where Bluetooth v3.0 supports a high data rate while Bluetooth v4.0 adopts Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) technology to include low power consumption in the specifications. Bluetooth v5.0 and later versions feature added functions including long-range communication and highly accurate indoor positioning. Moreover, an expansion to the frequency band including 6 GHz is under consideration.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Any use of such marks by Anritsu is under license.

What is Needed for Stable Bluetooth Device Connectivity

Bluetooth technology utilizes a 2.4 GHz frequency band, called an Industrial Scientific and Medical (ISM) band used for industrial and medical equipment. This band coexists with the frequency bands used for wireless LAN, microwave ovens, cordless phones, and others. In addition, the wireless output power of Bluetooth devices is weaker than that of wireless LAN system, making it more prone to instability in communication caused by radio wave interference. To mitigate such interference and ensure stable performance, Bluetooth technology has adopted the Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technique.

To ensure the proper functioning of this technique, companies need to test the RF performance during device development to address any issues related to radio wave interference, noise, and other problems that may arise around the device.

Anritsu’s Bluetooth Test Set MT8852B is a testing solution built to the industry standard certified by Bluetooth SIG*. It supports a host of test items, including RF tests for Bluetooth chips, modules, and devices as well as connectivity tests.

Application Note:
Bluetooth®-RF Characterization of LE Audio Devices

*Bluetooth SIG: Bluetooth Special Interest Group. A non-profit organization focused on developing Bluetooth standards, providing technologies, certifying products, and promoting interoperability.

Achieving Compliance with Laws and Regulations for Bluetooth Technology

Bluetooth technology operates on radio waves within the 2.4 GHz band, and it does not necessitate a wireless license. Nevertheless, it is crucial to adhere to the laws and regulations of the specific country or region where the products are utilized. Furthermore, before any device featuring the Bluetooth logo can be introduced to the market, it is imperative to undergo testing at a qualification test facility designated by Bluetooth SIG, register the device as a product, and obtain Bluetooth certification.

Anritsu’s Bluetooth Test Set MT8852B is officially certified by Bluetooth SIG for RF testing of Bluetooth devices. It enables fast and easy measurement of power, frequency, modulation, receiving sensitivity, and more, required by the Bluetooth Test Specification.

Efficiency Improving Production Efficiency: Key Requirements

To enhance the production efficiency of wireless communication devices, a crucial aspect to tackle is the reduction of test time. Additionally, wireless communication devices may incorporate functionalities aligned with other standards, such as wireless LAN or 5GNR/LTE. The implementation of one-box test equipment is essential for simultaneously testing devices against various communication standards. This approach not only contributes to space savings on production lines but also results in significant reductions in test time.

Anritsu’s Bluetooth Test Set MT8852B can automatically switch the Bluetooth device test mode, facilitating the seamless installation of production lines and contributing to reductions in the test time.

Additionally, the Universal Wireless Test Set MT8870A can reduce the test time by concurrently connecting multiple devices under test and conducting parallel testing. Furthermore, a single MT8870A unit supports multiple wireless communication standards, resulting in cost and space savings for production line installations. Through the utilization of these two testing solutions, Anritsu assists customers in enhancing their production efficiency.