Today's Automation News Headlines from Automation.com

January 29, 2012 - National Instruments announced access support for testing next-generation 802.11ac WLAN chipsets and devices. This announcement exemplifies how NI’s modular, software-defined wireless test platform continually expands to address the latest cellular and wireless connectivity standards including 802.11ac.

NI’s 802.11ac WLAN test solution provides flexibility in testing 802.11ac devices in addition to testing 802.11a/b/g/n devices. It works with a wide range of signal bandwidths including 20, 40, 80 and 80+80 160 MHz for both Tx and Rx for up to 4x4 MIMO configurations.

802.11ac Solution Features

• Modulation formats up to 256 QAM
• 4x4 MIMO for both Tx and Rx
• Signal bandwidths including 20, 40, 80 and advanced 80+80 160 MHz
• Optional MAC features such as LDPC, STBC and AMPDU
• Automated test system development using NI LabVIEW, C or Microsoft Visual Studio

NI is working with several early access partners, including silicon suppliers, OEMs and electronic manufacturing services (EMS) providers, to test the latest 802.11ac devices.
 

“By supporting the latest WLAN standard, 802.11ac, we are demonstrating the power of NI’s software-defined, modular test systems,” said Dr. James Truchard, president, CEO and cofounder of National Instruments. “Our modular test platform delivers faster test times and lower total cost of ownership, and by combining it with LabVIEW, we help engineers address the latest emerging wireless standards."

About 802.11ac
The IEEE 802.11ac WLAN standard promises more than 3X faster transfer speeds, more reliable coverage and up to 6X more power efficiency than equivalent 802.11n solutions. These benefits have increased the demand on today’s wireless test systems to provide better software flexibility, wider Tx and Rx bandwidth and higher performance signal processing.

About National Instruments
Since 1976, National Instruments has equipped engineers and scientists with tools that accelerate productivity, innovation and discovery. NI’s graphical system design approach to engineering provides an integrated software and hardware platform that speeds the development of any system needing measurement and control. The company’s long-term vision and focus on improving society through its technology supports the success of its customers, employees, suppliers and shareholders.