TMYTEK has introduced the FR3 Multi-Channel Phase-Coherent Testbed, a research platform designed to support next-generation communications, defense applications, satellite communications (Satcom), and high-resolution radar sensing. Developed to address the increasing complexity of 6G and advanced electromagnetic systems, the platform provides a 4T4R validation environment that combines TMYTEK UD Box 0630 up/down-converters with the NI Ettus USRP X440 baseband processor.
As wireless research moves toward FR3 and FR2 frequency bands, synchronization across multiple channels has become a critical requirement. The testbed is designed to provide a continuous signal path from baseband processing to microwave frequencies while maintaining phase coherence across channels. The platform is intended for applications where signal integrity and synchronized operation are essential for testing and validation.
The system targets a broad range of research and development activities. In 6G wireless research, it can be used for waveform development, massive MIMO precoding studies, and Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) validation. For defense and electronic warfare (EW) applications, the platform supports coherent radar emulation, angle-of-arrival (AoA) direction finding, and synchronized electronic countermeasure (ECM) testing. In the satellite communications sector, it can be applied to low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) constellation link emulation, multi-beam ground station synchronization, and non-terrestrial network (NTN) verification. The platform also supports high-resolution radar sensing applications that require wide bandwidths for precision imaging and target identification.
A key feature of the testbed is its hardware-level local oscillator (LO) synchronization capability. The platform physically locks local oscillators across multiple units, reducing phase drift commonly associated with independent frequency conversion systems. This approach is intended to maintain a stable phase relationship among all channels during operation.
According to TMYTEK, the platform has been optimized for phase-sensitive applications and maintains inter-channel phase deviation below 0.01 radians across its operating frequency range. The system also supports FR3 and FR2 spectrum bands and is designed to accommodate the wide bandwidth requirements associated with emerging 6G waveforms.
The physical configuration of the testbed consists of a host PC connected to an NI Ettus USRP X440, which interfaces with four TMYTEK UD Box 0630 units configured in a 4T4R arrangement. A shared local oscillator distribution network is used to synchronize the frequency conversion process across all channels.
Experimental testing conducted by the company evaluated the platform's phase stability from intermediate frequency (IF) baseband operation through high-frequency radio frequency (RF) transmission. In a loopback configuration using the X440 alone, a maximum phase deviation of 0.0002 radians was recorded. When operating with four UD Box 0630 units without LO synchronization at an RF frequency of 15.735 GHz, the maximum phase deviation measured 2.735 radians. Enabling LO synchronization under the same operating conditions reduced the maximum phase deviation to 0.0015 radians.
The test results indicate that inter-channel phase deviation remains below 0.01 radians across all tested frequency bands. This level of synchronization is intended to support applications that require repeatable and highly coherent multi-channel operation, including advanced communications research, radar system development, and satellite network validation.
TMYTEK states that the FR3 Multi-Channel Testbed is designed as an integrated hardware ecosystem that minimizes the impact of hardware instability on research activities. By combining hardware-level LO synchronization with verified phase coherence performance, the platform provides a controlled environment for the evaluation of next-generation communication, sensing, and defense technologies.
Click here to learn more about TMYTEK UD Box 0630.
Click here to learn more about NI Ettus USRP X440.
