The TR-398 testing standard has entered a new chapter. With the launch of Issue 3 Corrigendum 1 in Q1 2025, corrections and adjustments make the specification more rigorous. However, the complex environments and testing conditions make verification the biggest variable before market release. Allion combines professional verification with its Allion Wireless Equipment automated testing system to help vendors reduce repetitive testing and debugging time, improve product performance, and confidently face market challenges!
What is TR-398?
TR-398 is the “Wi-Fi In-Premises Performance Test Standard” released by the Broadband Forum (BBF). It is used to evaluate the real-world performance of Wi-Fi home/client devices (CPE).
In Q1 2025, the standard was updated to Issue 3 Corrigendum 1. This version mainly corrects errors or ambiguities in the original Issue 3 standard to ensure accuracy and consistency of testing methods.
TR-398 Overall Differences Between Versions
| Version | Issue 3 | Issue 3 Corrigendum 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Time | 2024 | 2025 |
| Nature | Based on Issue 2, adds 802.11ax 6GHz test conditions and Mesh tests | Based on Issue 3 corrections and supplements |
| Supported Standards | Wi-Fi 4/5/6/6E | Unchanged |
| Test Items | 7 categories, 21 test items | No new items, but conditions adjusted in detail |
| Main Purpose | Based on Issue 2 adjustments for Wi-Fi performance testing standards | Clarification of parameters, clearer test statements, refined test standards, stronger consistency |
Specific Changes in Issue 3 Corrigendum 1
| No. | Aspects | Item Number | Test Item | Changes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RF Capability | 6.1.1 | Receiver Sensitivity Test | Adjusted test standards |
| 2 | Baseline Performance | 6.2.4 | Dual-band Throughput Test | Adjusted test standards and updated methodology |
| 3 | 6.2.6 | Latency Test | Adjusted test standards and updated methodology | |
| 4 | 6.2.8 | Multi-Band Throughput Test | Updated methodology | |
| 5 | Stability/Robustness | 6.5.2 | AP Coexistence Test | Adjusted test conditions |
| 6 | Mesh/Extender | 6.6.1 | Mesh Wi-Fi Extender Throughput Performance Test | Adjusted conditions and standards |
| 7 | 6.6.2 | Mesh 2-node Repeater Wi-Fi Throughput Performance Test | Adjusted conditions and standards | |
| 8 | Appendix | 7.1.3 | Noise Accuracy | Moved to Appendix III |
The Three Major Testing Challenges – Are You Ready?
Due to the complexity of TR-398’s test environment and parameter settings, many vendors face difficulties when testing on their own, such as:
– Complicated environment setup
– Measurement uncertainty
– Inability to obtain both qualitative and quantitative results
Consulting Services: Accurate Testing for TR-398 and Wi-Fi 7
Allion is an authorized BBF TR-398 laboratory and actively participated in the development of Issue 3 specifications and the first Wi-Fi 6E test items. With rich testing and debugging experience, we help clients complete product development and certification quickly, easily, and efficiently.
To resolve industry pain points, our consulting team developed the Allion Wireless Equipment (AWE) system, designed specifically for TR-398 environments. This system not only supports Mesh testing but also already supports Wi-Fi 7 on the client side. We can validate products for TR-398 Issue 3 Corrigendum 1 (covering Wi-Fi 4/5/6/6E) while conducting additional Wi-Fi 7 performance tests.
Nine Key Features of AWE
◆ Developed and designed by a BBF-certified laboratory
◆ Flexible stackable space design
◆ Wi-Fi 7 support
◆ Quasi-circularly polarized antenna design for better placement efficiency across device types
◆ Built-in cameras for real-time monitoring of test devices
◆ Accurate system path loss calculations to ensure test consistency
◆ Uses 32 real Wi-Fi 7 clients integrated into a controlled test chamber, providing authentic wireless performance results for deeper analysis and debugging
◆ AI-driven automated testing
◆ Quality assurance for test repeatability and accuracy
Learn more: Allion Wireless Equipment (AWE) Solution
Consulting Support: From Design to Optimization
With over 30 years of expertise, Allion has executed hundreds of TR-398 projects, supporting major networking clients and telecom carriers. Our services include:
– Product validation under TR-398
– Design and specification consulting
– Performance optimization before market release
We also provide professional explanations of TR-398 Corrigendum 1 changes, clarifying test purposes and methodologies so clients can prepare thoroughly before submission.
Faster! Easier! Better! Allion TR-398 Testing and Consulting Services
Faster
Rapid problem-solving and rapid achievement of telecom carrier certification with expert support.
Easier
AI-driven automation ensures reliability, accuracy, and repeatability, saving time and resources needed to validate the consistency of test environment.
Better
Extensive testing scenarios and ecosystem validation reduce customer complaints, ensure product quality, and create a performance advantage over competitors.
If you face challenges in product development, testing, or certification, contact us through our online form. Allion is ready to provide tailored solutions to help your products stand out in today’s competitive market!
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