Can UWB Toolkit Perform Ranging and NBA Packet Tests?

Updated Jan 28, 2026

Issue Details

I am using the UWB Toolkit and noticed it lists support for IEEE 802.15.4z but does not mention IEEE 802.15.4ab. I need to confirm if the toolkit can test both UWB and NBA packets and whether it can perform ranging events such as Time-of-Flight or Angle-of-Arrival.

Solution

The UWB Toolkit supports generation and analysis of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) packets compliant with IEEE 802.15.4z. This includes standard ranging capabilities integrated into the measurement suite.
 
For ranging events, the toolkit provides:
  • Time-of-Flight (ToF) measurements
  • Angle-of-Arrival (AoA) analysis
  • Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF)
  • Packet Error Rate (PER)
  • Clock and frequency offset analysis
These features are part of the IEEE 802.15.4z standard and are documented in NI’s Ultra-Wideband Test Solution guide.
 
However, the toolkit does not list support for IEEE 802.15.4ab, which introduces Narrowband-Assisted UWB (NBA) modes. Some  third-party vendors may be required for NBA packet testing with NI products.