Keysight Technologies, Inc. has validated the first PCS Type Certification Review Board (PTCRB) 5G new radio (NR) non-terrestrial networks (NTN) test cases for 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release 17 (Rel-17) under PTCRB RFT-555.
Keysight currently leads in the total number of radio frequency (RF) transmitter and receiver test cases and uniquely holds validated performance test cases. These are the first NR-NTN validations within a 3GPP-based certification programme, giving chipset and device makers a trusted set of compliance tests to accelerate certification and market entry.
As mobile and satellite networks converge, NTNs extend 5G coverage to remote areas and enhance resilience when ground infrastructure is disrupted due to natural disasters. The 3GPP supports NTN in both narrowband (NB-NTN) for messaging/intermittent links and NR-NTN for higher-performance services. Operating through satellites introduces longer signal delays and higher Doppler variations from orbital motion, making design and certification more complex.
Keysight RF/RRM DVT and Conformance and Protocol Conformance Toolsets, now with the newly validated PTCRB NR-NTN test cases, give vendors a clear, standards-based path to verify device behaviour in real-world scenarios. The solution supports all NTN frequency range one (FR1) bands, including n255 and n256, and uses common hardware and software across NB-NTN, NR-NTN, and LTE direct-to-cell (D2C) acceptance testing. The solution also includes validated test cases used by major satellite and mobile network operators, helping ensure broad compatibility and streamlined certification.
Muthu Kumaran, General Manager for Keysight’s Device Acceptance Solutions, said: “Keysight has always been at the forefront of NTN testing. With the industry’s most complete set of validated NTN test cases across multiple radio access technologies, our solutions bridge wireless and satellite ecosystems, helping device and chipset makers accelerate certification and deliver the next wave of connectivity with confidence.”
