Rohde & Schwarz first to achieve GCF approval for 5G FR2 RRM standalone mode conformance test cases

Rohde & Schwarz is the first company to obtain Global Certification Forum (GCF) test approval for validating the radio resource management (RRM) performance of advanced 5G New Radio (NR) devices. This approval specifically applies to devices operating in 5G NR standalone (SA) mode within FR2 and capable of managing multiple angles of arrival. It enables device manufacturers to certify their products for global compatibility with mobile networks that utilize mmWave frequencies and operate in 5G SA with a real 5G core network (5GC).

Verifying compliance with critical RRM test cases is increasingly important as wireless 5G routers and customer premises equipment (CPE) gain prominence for fixed wireless access (FWA) applications. These test cases are essential for ensuring a reliable end user experience, especially in challenging network conditions, such as blockages, or at the cell edge.

After the Conformance Agreement Group (CAG) #81 meeting held by GCF in Bangkok January 21 to 23, 2025, it was confirmed that Rohde & Schwarz is currently the only provider offering certification solutions that meet all mandatory test requirements for 5G FR2 RRM, while also supporting the largest number of validated test cases for both RF and RRM in this frequency range. The Rohde & Schwarz 5G mmWave test platform offers a wide range of advanced 5G FR2 non-standalone (NSA) and SA test cases. The platform is built on the CMX500 5G network emulator and includes the R&S ATS1800M anechoic chamber series as well as a powerful device under test (DUT) positioner.

Thomas Eyring, Senior Director of Device Certification at Rohde & Schwarz, commented on the milestone, saying: “We are proud to take a significant step toward enhanced conformance testing as a pioneer in mobile device testing. Our technology will help ensure the quality and reliability of 5G devices while addressing the challenges in the FR2 frequency range. We are also working on test cases for the upcoming FR3 frequency range, which is expected to play a key role in 6G networks.”

More information on R&S®TS8980 conformance test system from Rohde & Schwarz.

Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its Test & Measurement, Technology Systems and Networks & Cybersecurity Divisions. For over 90 years, the global technology group has pushed technical boundaries with developments in cutting-edge technologies. The company’s leading-edge products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory and government customers to attain technological and digital sovereignty. The privately owned, Munich based company can act independently, long-term and sustainably. Rohde & Schwarz generated net revenue of EUR 2.93 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year (July to June). On June 30, 2024, Rohde & Schwarz had more than 14,400 employees worldwide.

R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.

Wireless communications testing