Rohde & Schwarz tests interactivity in real 5G networks
Rohde & Schwarz has detailed a new test methodology for measuring network interactivity, crucial for 5G applications. The test assesses data rates, latency, jitter, and packet loss.
Munich – Rohde & Schwarz, a technology group, has published findings on network interactivity testing, particularly relevant for 5G deployments. In the final part of a three-part series, the company outlines its test approach, which measures key technical parameters like data rates, round-trip latency, packet delay variation (jitter), and packet loss.
This methodology combines these metrics into a single "interactivity score" designed to model the quality of experience (QoE) for specific applications. The goal is to evaluate a network's suitability for ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC) services, a key capability of 5G.
To validate measurement accuracy, Rohde & Schwarz set up a reference system connecting a smartphone directly to a server, eliminating external interference. In this controlled environment, the tests recorded an average round-trip latency of just 1.26 ms with an interactivity score of 99.6%. The company stated this level of accuracy is sufficient for measuring latencies as low as 1 ms, suitable for URLLC.
Field tests conducted under good 4G/LTE conditions with a fast, well-connected server showed median round-trip latencies between 25 and 40 ms. While no packet loss or excessive delays were observed, the interactivity score ranged from 75% to 85%. This indicates that while packet loss and jitter were minimal, the latency itself impacts the user experience for real-time applications like gaming.