Rohde & Schwarz announced its work with Qualcomm Technologies to verify the implementation of next-generation eCall (NG eCall) on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF.
The companies’ work together aims to improve the safety and efficiency of emergency response systems in vehicles via advanced testing solutions.
First introduced in 2015, eCall, an automated vehicle emergency call system, has been a mandatory requirement for all new calls sold within the EU since 2018. However, as 2G/3G cellular networks are phased out, these call systems will need to be adapted to 4G/5G networks.
The European Commission has defined in its most recent regulation that NG eCall will be obligatory beginning 1 January, 2026. This standard establishes guidelines for testing eCall systems over IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) networks, including advanced 4G LTE and 5G NR technologies.
In order to incorporate the new NG eCall features in eCall modules, the automotive industry will require NG eCall testing solutions.
The Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF is a 5G automotive-grade platform that has paved the way for next-gen connected vehicles. Designed to meet the demands of modern telematics, it supports reliable connectivity, precise multi-band GNSS navigation, and enhanced safety.
Through this joint effort, Rohde & Schwarz and Qualcomm have succesfully verified the compliance of the Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF’s NG eCall functionality with the most recent standards.
The verification process involved the Rohde & Schwarz CMX500 mobile radio tester, a testing solution for NG eCall including voice and data transmission. This rigorous test validated the compliance of the implementation at both ends with the most recent standard. It also supports both 4G and 5G technologies, to ensure the solutions are future-proof.
“We are pleased to have joined forces with Qualcomm Technologies on the verification of their chipsets’ NG eCall implementation,” said Juergen Meyer, Vice President Market Segment Automotive, Rohde & Schwarz. “This collaboration sets a new benchmark for the future of emergency call services, providing the automotive industry a robust and dependable solution to meet the latest eCall standards.”
The CMX500 with the CMX-KA098 software option can effectively be used for NG eCall testing under realistic network conditions.
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