Keysight Ericsson Collaboration on Pre-6G cmWave Testbed

Keysight Technologies and Ericsson have joined forces to establish a cutting-edge pre-6G radio access test setup in the centimetre Wave (cmWave) frequency band spanning from 7 to 15GHz. This innovative testbed is designed to create a cmWave communication link between an Ericsson pre-6G base station and a user equipment (UE) test system provided by Keysight.

With parts of the cmWave spectrum being earmarked for potential use in future 6G networks, frequencies ranging from 7 GHz to 15 GHz are particularly appealing due to the ample availability of large bandwidths. Moreover, these frequencies hold the promise of enhanced coverage, in addition to complementing the higher frequency millimeter wave bands.

• Keysight, Ericsson show pre-6G network

The characteristics of cmWave make it well-suited for the high data rate, low latency applications that 6G aims to support. However, the deployment of cmWave comes with its own set of challenges, including spectrum-sharing and coexistence issues, as well as the necessity for advanced multiple input multiple output (MIMO) techniques to address the increased path loss compared to current sub-6GHz networks.

By providing a lab-based environment, the testbed enables researchers to delve into new physical layer and protocol features, thereby propelling the development of 6G technology within the cmWave frequency bands. This research is poised to play a pivotal role in driving the evolution of 6G technology for the forthcoming era of wireless communication.

Attendees at Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2025 will have the opportunity to witness a live demonstration showcasing this groundbreaking achievement. According to Freddie Södergren, Head of Technology & Strategy, Business Area Networks at Ericsson, “Evaluating the performance potential of new spectrum and exploring new and evolved technology concepts pre-6G standardization is a top priority for Ericsson. Our collaboration with Keysight enables us to take valuable steps forward on the journey towards realizing 6G by 2030.”

Giampaolo Tardioli, Vice President of 6G and Next Generation Technology at Keysight, also expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Our close partnership with Ericsson is allowing both teams to delve into 6G technology ahead of the standardization process. This collaborative effort provides us with a testbed that serves as a springboard for exploring future 6G solutions.”

As the industry delves deeper into the realm of 6G technology, the exploration of cmWave as a key component of the 6G landscape is gaining momentum. The partnership between Keysight Technologies and Ericsson exemplifies a forward-looking approach to innovation, setting the stage for the next generation of wireless communication technologies.