Automotive radar is one of the key technologies that drives progress in the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) needed for future generations of driverless vehicles.
The test system consists of the new, compact R&S ATS1500C automotive radar test chamber for far-field testing, in combination with the AREG100A automotive radar echo generator for precise radar target simulation at various distances.
Together, they form an innovative indirect far-field testing solution for reliable and reproducible verification of radar sensors throughout the R&D and validation phase in a user-friendly and extremely compact lab setup.
The R&S ATS1500C features a high accurate compact antenna test range (CATR) reflector, generating a 30 cm diameter quiet zone for testing in the frequency range from 77 - 81 GHz. Its high-precision 3D tilt-tilt positioner permits testing of premium automotive radars. A carefully designed absorber layout eliminates ghost targets during simulation.
Uhnder, a start-up, has developed a radar chip that combines CMOS and digital code modulation, and has 192 virtual channels – “a major leap from the 8 to 24 virtual channels used in today’s standard radars”, according to R&S.
It also has 20Top of processing to track and classify objects, while consuming only 8W.
“High contrast resolution provides significantly improved range and angular resolution and makes it possible to separate small radar reflectors from large reflectors in proximity,” said R&S.
“Rohde & Schwarz was our partner of choice for developing this new technology,” said Uhnder engineering director Ralf Reuter. "Our 4D digitally modulated radar-on-chip has special testing requirements, and having a partner with the necessary expertise was vital for us."