Azimuth performance tester targets FMC devices

Azimuth Systems Inc. has introduced the FMC Performance Test Solution featuring a comprehensive suite of automated test scripts that streamline the testing of fixed-mobile convergence (FMC) products by service providers, handset manufacturers and semiconductor vendors.

Real-world dynamics
The complete solution provides over 20 unique and repeatable performance tests on converged Wi-Fi/cellular handsets over a broad range of real-world environment dynamics. The new suite enables vendors to prove that their handsets deliver the Wi-Fi QoS required by end-users to drive rapid adoption of converged voice and data services.

Azimuth's FMC Performance Test Solution measures Wi-Fi performance in three areas that get the most attention from end-users: dropped calls, battery life and call quality. The tests allow users to thoroughly analyze the voice quality and data performance of converged Wi-Fi/cellular handsets in a variety of range, roaming, hand-in/hand-out and environmental conditions. The tests also measure handset power consumption and battery life under various motion and traffic conditions. The automated scripts remotely control the device under test, generate/display statistics and reduce the testing process from weeks to days.

The basic software suite runs on Azimuth's W-Series test platform and enables performance testing using the Test Engine methodology originally developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance for certification testing of Wi-Fi devices. The complete FMC Performance Test Solution includes real-world environment dynamics such as background Wi-Fi traffic, RF interference, multipath fading and IP Network impairment conditions. Testing with multipath fading is accomplished by running the test scripts on Azimuth's ACE 400NB channel emulator.

The Azimuth approach
The FMC Performance Test Solution leverages Azimuth's patented testing approach for providing unmatched repeatability, flexibility and automation for wireless device and network testing. The six key elements of the Azimuth approach include: DIRECTOR test executive to provide an easy-to-use console for test and device management; STUDIO database management software for automated report generation and correlation of test results; a Real2Real architecture that enables interoperability testing between real-world devices; TestMAC technology to emulate clients and APs and to perform protocol behavior tests; SmartMotion technology to precisely control virtual motion between devices in the network and RadioProof enclosures that isolate the RF environment.