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DTM, transmitter test, current consumption

Hello together,

we are running the DTM in different modes to check the module (nrf52832, sdk 5 version 11). The carrier test gives us a current consumption that meets the specifications in the data sheet*. If we are running the transmitter test, the current is lower than during carrier test. We are wondering why this is the case? What is the chip doing during transmitter test with the settings below? Isn't it sending all the time?

For the transmitter test we use the following configuration:

-transmit channel 0

-pattern 16 times 0x0F

-power 4dBm

Using the following configuration still does not meet the current consumption of the carrier test:

-transmit channel 0

-pattern 37 times 0x55

-power 4dBm

*We assume that the values in the datasheet are the current consumption for the RF-part only. If we want to have the real current consumption, we need to add the current of the chip core. Is this correct?

Thx in advance!

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  • Hi Hauser,

    When running the carrier wave test, the radio will send out a carrier (no data, without modulation) and the TX will be on until you disable/reset the device.

    When doing a transmitter test, the nRF will send a modulated TX packet (ie: payload with data) once every 625 us. As one packet does not take 625 us, you will get some "down time" in between each window. Thus, the current consumption is lower compared to doing a carrier wave test.

    Cheers, Håkon

Reply
  • Hi Hauser,

    When running the carrier wave test, the radio will send out a carrier (no data, without modulation) and the TX will be on until you disable/reset the device.

    When doing a transmitter test, the nRF will send a modulated TX packet (ie: payload with data) once every 625 us. As one packet does not take 625 us, you will get some "down time" in between each window. Thus, the current consumption is lower compared to doing a carrier wave test.

    Cheers, Håkon

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