Engineers can now test 6G devices with FR3 platforms, improving speed, connectivity, and reliability for telecom, automotive, and IoT systems.
As mobile networks evolve, engineers are preparing for 6G, the next generation of wireless communication. Achieving high-speed data transfer, low latency, and reliable connectivity at scale requires testing in new frequency ranges. The FR3 frequency band, spanning 7.125 to 24.25 GHz, has emerged as a key element for 6G networks, with the Lower FR3 band up to 16 GHz already under discussion for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference. Existing test instruments for FR1 and FR2 bands cannot fully evaluate FR3 devices, creating a need for upgraded test platforms.
Anritsu has released an RF hardware option for the MT8000A Radio Communication Test Station to support the FR3 band. The upgrade allows the platform to perform RF, protocol, and functional tests for 4G, 5G, and 6G devices on a single system. By integrating FR3 support, the MT8000A enables device validation across current and future technologies without requiring separate instruments, reducing development time and improving workflow efficiency.
The platform addresses the unique characteristics of FR3, which differ from FR1 and FR2 in propagation, signal connectivity, and communication quality. It supports comprehensive 3GPP-based tests, including RF measurement for signal integrity, protocol validation for network compliance, and functional testing for device performance. The FR3 module enables high-capacity data testing and wide-area coverage evaluation, crucial for validating network-connected applications and services. Software updates will allow future 6G functions to be added without replacing hardware, providing continuity as standards evolve.
This upgrade allows engineers to evaluate both network-level connectivity and application-level performance for FR3 devices. “Supporting FR3 today allows device developers to start 6G validation while maintaining compatibility with 4G and 5G networks,” a spokesperson said. With this enhancement, the MT8000A provides a scalable, multifunctional foundation for advancing mobile technology and preparing for the transition to 6G.
