IEEE 802.11ah is an emerging standard that defines a WLAN system operating in sub 1-GHz, license-exempt bands. This emerging standard is viewed as a key enabler of IoT devices, relying on power efficient, long range and scalable Wi-Fi services. Compared to existing 802.11 standards operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, 802.11ah offers a significantly improved transmission range. This makes it ideal for use in large-scale sensor networks, extended range hotspots, power efficient devices, and outdoor Wi-Fi for cellular traffic offloading.

Keysight's Signal Studio for WLAN reduces the time spent on signal creation. Its application-specific interface supports all physical layer parameters enabling users to create and customize standards-based, performance-validated signals for component, transmitter and receiver test. Designers can use the basic capabilities (Option JFP) of the software to create partially-coded signals for transmitter or component test, while the advanced capabilities, Option UFP, creates fully-coded signals for receiver test.

After the creation of the 802.11ah-compliant reference signals, engineers can download them to a variety of Keysight instruments for real-world testing. The Signal Studio for WLAN software supports Keysight's bench-top vector signal generators (MXG, EXG, ESG, and PSG), the modular M9381A PXI vector signal generator and the E6640A EXM one-box tester. Such functionality is critical to helping WLAN industry chipset vendors, consumer electronics, wearable devices and home automation makers develop, validate and produce early products based on the 802.11ah standard.

"As a recognized industry leader in the wireless test industry, Keysight is actively involved in the development and implementation of emerging standards such as 802.11ah, and an enabler of emerging market segments like the Internet-of-Things," said Mike Griffin, applications marketing manager for Keysight's Microwave and Communications Division.

"Keysight's new Signal Studio 802.11ah capability provides designers the benchmark solution they need to confidently move their 802.11ah-based designs forward, and in the process, will play a pivotal role in aiding the build-out of the Internet-of-Things."