In a major step toward achieving truly global connectivity, Viasat, a leader in satellite communications, and Rohde & Schwarz, a titan in test and measurement solutions, have announced a strategic collaboration. The partnership is focused on expanding testing capabilities for Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), specifically targeting Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) devices.
As the industry shifts toward universal coverage, this initiative ensures that the next generation of chipsets and modules can operate seamlessly across Viasat’s sprawling satellite network while adhering to the rigorous 3GPP Release 17 standards.
Ensuring Reliable “Everywhere” Connectivity
The primary challenge for IoT applications in remote or underserved areas—such as maritime, agriculture, and logistics—is the lack of terrestrial cell towers. NTN technology solves this by using satellites to provide a “tower in the sky.” However, maintaining high performance and reliability in these environments requires specialized testing.
Through this collaboration, Viasat is deploying advanced testing methodologies to guarantee that devices don’t just connect, but perform optimally under the most demanding conditions. By focusing on protocol, RF (Radio Frequency), and performance scenarios, the duo is setting a high bar for quality in the burgeoning satellite-to-device market.
The Power of the CMX500 One-Box Tester
At the heart of this testing certification is the Rohde & Schwarz CMX500 one-box signaling tester. This versatile instrument is a game-changer for engineers, offering a unified solution for:
- NR-NTN and NB-NTN testing: Covering both high-speed and low-power satellite protocols.
- End-to-end Verification: Managing the journey from initial R&D to final carrier acceptance.
- Repeatable Results: Ensuring that every device hitting the market meets the same stringent interoperability requirements.
The CMX500 allows manufacturers to accelerate their development cycles, moving from the lab to the field with the confidence that their hardware is fully compatible with Viasat’s infrastructure.
See the Results at MWC Barcelona 2026
The industry won’t have to wait long to see the fruits of this partnership. Rohde & Schwarz will be showcasing the first set of test results—spanning protocol and RF performance—at MWC Barcelona 2026, held from March 2 to 5.
Attendees can witness these advancements firsthand at the Rohde & Schwarz booth (5A80, Hall 5) or visit the Viasat team (6A20, Hall 6) to discuss how these NTN capabilities are reshaping the future of ubiquitous IoT.
