ESP32 & ESP8266

RF Performance Test Demonstration

Version 3.0
Espressif Systems
Copyright © 2019

www.espressif.com
 About This Guide
Release Notes

Date Version Release notes

2017.12 V 1.0 Initial release.

2018.03 V 2.0 An RF test tool is used to run the tests.

2019.01 V 3.0 An adaptivity test is introduced in the RF test tool.

Documentation Change Notification

Espressif provides email notifications to keep customers updated on changes to
technical documentation. Please subscribe at https://www.espressif.com/en/subscribe.

Certification
Download certificates for Espressif products from https://www.espressif.com/en/
certificates.
 Table of Contents
1. Test Overview .........................................................................................................................1
1.1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................1

1.2. Product Information ...................................................................................................................1

2. Test Framework .....................................................................................................................2

2.1. Test Setup .................................................................................................................................. 2

2.2. Test Process ...............................................................................................................................2

3. Environment Setup ................................................................................................................4

3.1. Related Tools ..............................................................................................................................4

3.1.1. Hardware ......................................................................................................................4

3.1.2. Software ........................................................................................................................5

3.1.3. Serial Port Board ..........................................................................................................5

3.2. Antenna Impedance Matching Requirement and RF Hardware Setup ......................................6

3.2.1. Antenna Impedance Matching Requirement ................................................................6

3.2.2. RF Hardware Setup ......................................................................................................6

3.2.3. Pin Wiring Diagram .......................................................................................................8

3.3. Software Installation ...................................................................................................................9

4. RF Test Tool..........................................................................................................................10
4.1. Features ...................................................................................................................................10

4.2. User Interface ...........................................................................................................................10

5. RF Performance Test ...........................................................................................................12

5.1. Test Demonstration ..................................................................................................................12

5.1.1. Configure the Serial Port ............................................................................................12

5.1.2. Download the Firmware .............................................................................................. 12

5.1.3. Run the RF test ...........................................................................................................13

5.2. Online Help Documentation .....................................................................................................18

6. RF Certification Test ............................................................................................................19

6.1. Wi-Fi Certification Test .............................................................................................................19

6.1.1. Environment Setup .....................................................................................................19

6.1.2. Test-related Configuration ..........................................................................................19

6.2. BT Certification Test .................................................................................................................21

6.2.1. Environment Setup .....................................................................................................21

 6.2.2. Test-related Configuration ..........................................................................................21

7. Adaptivity Certification Test ................................................................................................22

7.1. Environment Setup ...................................................................................................................22

7.2. STA Mode .................................................................................................................................22

7.3. AP Mode ..................................................................................................................................24

8. ESP32 Wi-Fi/BT 

Operation Command ...........................................................................................................26
8.1. Wi-Fi Test Commands ..............................................................................................................26

8.1.1. Continuous Tx Enable Command ...............................................................................26

8.1.2. Tx Start Command .....................................................................................................26

8.1.3. Tx Stop Command .....................................................................................................27

8.1.4. Command for Selecting Tx/Rx 11n Mode 20 Mbps or 40 Mbps ...............................27

8.1.5. Rx Start Command .....................................................................................................28

8.1.6. Rx Stop Command .....................................................................................................28

8.1.7. SCW Tx Command .....................................................................................................28

8.2. BT Test Commands ..................................................................................................................29

8.2.1. BR/EDR Tx Command ................................................................................................29

8.2.2. LE Tx Command .........................................................................................................29

8.2.3. Tx Stop Command .....................................................................................................30

8.2.4. BR/EDR Rx Start Command .......................................................................................30

8.2.5. LE Rx Start Command ................................................................................................31

8.2.6. Rx Stop Command .....................................................................................................32

8.2.7. BT Receiving Status Command .................................................................................32

8.2.8. SCW Tx Command .....................................................................................................32

9. ESP8266 Wi-Fi 

Operation Commands .........................................................................................................34
9.1. Test Commands .......................................................................................................................34

9.1.1. Continuous Tx Enable Command ...............................................................................34

9.1.2. Tx Start Command .....................................................................................................34

9.1.3. Tx Stop Command .....................................................................................................35

9.1.4. Rx Start Command .....................................................................................................35

9.1.5. Rx Stop Command .....................................................................................................36

9.1.6. SCW Command ..........................................................................................................36

A. Appendix – Install a UART Driver on the Serial Port Board ...............................................37

 1. Test Overview
!

1. Test Overview
1.1. Introduction
This guide demonstrates how to run an RF related performance test and certification test
using an RF tester to check an ESP32 / ESP8266 based product, either functioning as a
standalone controller or an integrated part of MCU.

📖 Note:

• Download link for the test tool (open in a browser):

download.espressif.com/release/ESP_RFtest_and_Certification_tool.zip

• Download link for the newest test bin files (open in a browser):

download.espressif.com/release/espressif/ESP_RFtest_and_Certification_bin.zip
• For more documentation on ESP32 / ESP8266, please visit the Espressif website.

1.2. Product Information

For the detailed information on a specific product, please check its datasheet on the
Espressif website.


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 2. Test Framework
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2. Test Framework
2.1. Test Setup

!
Figure 2-1. RF Test Framework

• ESP32 / ESP8266: An ESP32 or ESP8266 product, also referred to as a device under

test (DUT) in this guide.
• PC: Running EspRFtestTool, an RF test tool provided by Espressif.

- The PC communicates with a DUT through the UART interface, by which

configuration-related commands specific to different test modes are sent.
• IQView/WT200/IQ Xel: An RF tester used for testing the RF performance of the DUT
working in different modes.

2.2. Test Process

1. To test a DUT, the following pins should be led out:
• For ESP32: 3V3, EN, GND, U0TX, U0RX, and GPIO0.

• For ESP8266: 3V3, EN, GND, U0TX, U0RX, GPIO15 (connect to GND), and GPIO0.

📖 Note:

GPIO0 is mainly used to switch between Download mode and Flash operation mode:
• Download mode: GPIO0 is connected to GND and pulled low (used for downloading bin files).

• Flash operation mode: GPIO0 is floating or pulled high.

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 2. Test Framework
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2. Connect the DUT to a serial port board, and make sure the DUT enters Download mode
(connect GPIO0 to GND):
• Connect the led-out pins to the serial port board according to Step 1. For details,
please refer to Section 3.2.3.
- GPIO0 is connected to GND and pulled low.
- EN is connected to 3V3 and pulled high.
- GPIO15 is pulled low (only for ESP8266).
• Connect the serial port board to a PC using a USB cable and install the
corresponding driver (see Appendix A.), to ensure the serial port can be successfully
identified.
3. Open the RF test tool on the PC, download the firmware and run the test:
• The firmware can be downloaded either to RAM or flash.
• Run the firmware, use the RF test tool to configure the test-specific TX mode for the
DUT, and start the test.

📖 Note:

Keep in mind the difference between downloading the firmware to RAM and flash:

• RAM: The firmware is ready to run immediately after it is successfully downloaded to RAM. However,
the RAM program gets erased as soon as you reboot the DUT, so you will have to download the
firmware again.
• Flash: The firmware is not ready to run after the downloading process is completed. You need to
switch to Flash operation mode by manually disconnecting the GPIO0 pin and re-power the DUT.

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 3. Environment Setup
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3. Environment Setup
3.1. Related Tools
3.1.1. Hardware

Table 3-1. Hardware Preparation

Name Picture Quantity Description

May vary
The products developed by
DUT based on depending on
N/A customers based on ESP32 /
ESP32 / ESP8266 test
ESP8266.
requirements

Serves as a USB converter that

Serial Port Board 1 allows the test tool on the PC to
communicate with the DUT.

Connects the serial port board to

Micro-USB cable 1
the PC.

• Runs relevant software.

PC N/A 1 • Windows XP or Windows 7 is
recommended.

Tester Used for testing the Wi-Fi

(e.g. IQView201x, a performance-related parameters.
N/A 1
Wi-Fi general- You may use other similar testers
purpose tester) such as iTest WT200.

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 3. Environment Setup
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3.1.2. Software

Table 3-2. Software Preparation

Name Description

ft232r-usb-uart.zip USB-UART converter driver (adaptable to the serial port board)

This program integrates downloading and running of the test

RF test tool firmware, as well as sending of the configuration-related
commands, etc.

3.1.3. Serial Port Board

A serial port board is mainly used as a USB converter. You may use other similar boards.
However, considering that some of them might have unstable performance, it is
recommended to purchase the one shown below (if you would like to purchase the board
from Espressif, please contact us).

!
Figure 3-1. Serial Port Board

Please check your purchased board against the following criteria to make sure the switches
and shorting jumpers are in their correct positions:
• Markings com1 and com2: Serial ports used for communication with a PC. Markings
1 and 2 are two independent serial ports, corresponding to TX/RX/RTS/CTS.
• Marking 3: Mainly used to jump between com2 3.3 V level and 5 V level.

• Marking 6: Used to enable 3.3 V. Shorting jumpers should be used here.

• Marking 4: Not used, so no need to configure.

• Marking 5: Not used, so no need to configure.


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 3. Environment Setup
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3.2. Antenna
5
Impedance Matching
4
Requirement and RF
3
Hardware
Setup
3.2.1. Antenna Impedance Matching Requirement

For the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test, the π-type impedance matching circuit for
the antenna should meet the requirements shown in Figure 3-2.
D

Antenna

L1 NC

C1 C2

2.4pF NC
C

GND GND

!
Figure 3-2. π-type Impedance Matching Circuit for the Antenna
📖 Note:

The recommended value for the capacitor C1 is 2.4 pF. L1, C2, along with C1, perform impedance
matching for the antenna. The impedance value varies for different modules.

3.2.2. RF Hardware Setup

B
3.2.2.1. Conduction Test
• Solder the DUT’s antenna-related part to one end of a coaxial cable, and connect the
cable’s other end to an SMA (SubMiniature version A) connector which can later be
plugged into an RF tester.
• Before soldering the cable, do not forget to cut the trace to PCB antenna, to ensure
the test data is accurate.
• The test setup for ESP32 and ESP8266 modules is shown in Table 3-3 for your
reference.

Title
<T

Size Do
A <D

Date:
5 4 3
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 3. Environment Setup
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Table 3-3. Setup Demonstration for Conduction Test

RF-related Connection Image Trace Cutting Image

ESP32

ESP8266

3.2.2.2. Radiation Test

• Use the PCB antenna directly and run the test using a shielded box.

• Make sure to configure the correct path attenuation for a specific radiation test.

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 3. Environment Setup
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3.2.3. Pin Wiring Diagram

!
Figure 3-3. Test Scenario 1 - Wiring for the DUT as a standalone controller

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 3. Environment Setup
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Figure 3-4. Test Scenario 2 - Wiring for the DUT as an integrated part of MCU

📖 Note:

• The serial port board is connected to the PC with a micro-USB cable. For the driver installation, please
refer to Appendix A.

• For the test scenario 2, make sure to disconnect the serial port communication between the DUT and
MCU; otherwise, the command sending process from the PC to DUT will be interfered with.

3.3. Software Installation

• Install the tester-related software (e.g. the softwares related to IQView).

• Install EspRFtestTool, and run the tool (make sure all the connected serial ports function
properly).


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 4. RF Test Tool
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4. RF Test Tool
4.1. Features

!
Figure 4-1. EspRFtestTool Interface

As shown in figure 4-1, EspRFtestTool has the following main features:

• Supports test firmware downloading to RAM or flash.

• Offers four RF tests: Wi-Fi, BT, Wi-Fi Adaptivity, and manual command input test.

• Printing and saving log information.

• Online help documentation.

4.2. User Interface

The user interface of the RF test tool has four sections, described in Table 4-1.

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 4. RF Test Tool
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Table 4-1. Tool Overveiw

Section Description

The configuration options include chip type, COM port, baud rate, and the
Serial Port Configuration
status of the serial port.

The configuration items include a bin-browse button (the one with tree dots),
Download Configuration download location (RAM or flash), load bin (download button), and download
status showing “SYNC”, “LOAD”, “SUCC”, or “FAIL”.

The test items include Wi-Fi, BT, Wi-Fi Adaptivity and Manual (manual
Test Configuration command input test). Click on start to begin a test, and stop to terminate a
test.

All the operating data is printed in this section. You can save or clear the log
Log Information
output.

📖 Note:

• This guide demonstrates the RF test tool with the ESP32 product as an example.

• Make sure the correct chip type and bin files are selected while testing ESP8266 products.

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 5. RF Performance Test
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5. RF Performance Test
5.1. Test Demonstration
5.1.1. Configure the Serial Port

!
Double-click espRFTool.exe to run the EspRFtestTool:
• Choose ESP32 for ChipType

• Choose the correct port number for COM (COM27 in this case)

• Set the BaudRate to 115200

• Switch the serial port status to open (the port can be switched between the open and
closed statuses)

5.1.2. Download the Firmware

!
• Browse to the path where test bin files are saved, for example: D:/ESP32_TEST/
ESP32_RF_TEST_BIN_XXXX.bin.
• Choose the download location: RAM or flash (for details on their difference, please refer
to Section 2.2).
• MAC address: The status block shows the MAC address of the chip during the
download process.
• Click on load bin and start the download process.

• SUCC will appear if the downloading was successful.

⚠ Notice:

• If the bin file is downloaded to flash, you need to download it only once. To run the downloaded file,
you need to switch to Flash operation mode by floating GPIO0 and re-powering the DUT.

• If the bin file is downloaded to RAM, it will run immediately after the download process is completed.
But the RAM program will be erased as soon as you reboot the DUT. You will have to download the bin
file again.

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 5. RF Performance Test
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5.1.3. Run the RF test

5.1.3.1. For Wi-Fi test, select wifi Test

1. The following Test Mode options are available for wifi Test:
TX continues: continuous TX mode
TX packet: non-continuous TX mode
RX packet: RX mode
TX tone: single carrier TX mode
Choose the Test Mode according to your specific requirements.
2. To test TX, choose TX packet for Test Mode, and set WiFi Rate, BandWidth,
Channel, and Attenuation. TX data rates are listed in Table 5-1.

Table 5-1. TX Data Rates

11b 11g 11n

Parameter Data rate Parameter Data rate Parameter Data rate

0x0 1 Mbps 0xb 6 Mbps 0x10 6.5 Mbps/MCS0

0x1 2 Mbps 0xf 9 Mbps 0x11 13 Mbps/MCS1

0x2 5.5 Mbps 0xa 12 Mbps 0x12 19.5 Mbps/MCS2

0x3 11 Mbps 0xe 18 Mbps 0x13 26 Mbps/MCS3

- - 0x9 24 Mbps 0x14 39 Mbps/MCS4

- - 0xd 36 Mbps 0x15 52 Mbps/MCS5

- - 0x8 48 Mbps 0x16 58.5 Mbps/MCS6

- - 0xc 54 Mbps 0x17 65 Mbps/MCS7

3. For example, if the WiFi Rate is set to MCS7, Bandwidth to 20 M, and Channel to 1,
you may choose the options as shown in Figure 5-1, and click on start to begin the test.
You will get the log output described below:
• tx_contin_en 1: continuous TX mode with a duty ratio of 92%, mainly used for the
certification test
• tx_contin_en 0: TX packet mode, mainly used for the performance test
• tx_cbw40m_en 0: 11n HT20, 20 M bandwidth
• tx_cbw40m_en 1: 11n HT40, 40 M bandwidth (supported by ESP32 only)

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 5. RF Performance Test
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⚠ Notice:

• Before switching to other channels or data rates, please click on stop to terminate the current
transmission.
• ESP32 supports HT40 and HT20, while ESP8266 supports HT20 only.

• HT40 and HT20 use the identical way to transmit packets.

4. Click on stop to end the TX process, the returned log message will be cmdstop.

Figure 5-1. Log Output of the ESP32 Wi-Fi TX Test

5. Wi-Fi RX performance test:

• Choose RX packet for Test Mode, and set WiFi Rate, BandWidth and Channel
according to your requirements. Click on start to begin the test.
• After RX is done, click on stop to end the test.

- Correct indicates the number of the received packets in total.

- Desired indicates the number of the received packets at a specifically set data
rate.
- RSSI indicates the average power of the received Desired packets.

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!
Figure 5-2. Log Output of the ESP32 Wi-Fi RX Test

5.1.3.2. For BT test, select BT Test

1. To test the BT TX performance with the data rate BR 1M, the DH type DH1, the data
type 1010, and the TX channel 0, please refer to Figure 5-3 for your configurations.
The log information section gives you the TX details.
2. Log information: Take the BT TX test as an example, fcc_bt_tx is followed by seven
parameters described below:
• <Parameter1> TX power level with a range of 0-7 (typically 4), in multiples of 3 dB.

• <Parameter2> Enables or disables frequency hopping: 1 - enable; 0 - disable.

• <Parameter3> Selects the TX channel from 0 to 78.

• <Parameter4> Selects the frequency modulation type: 1 - 1M; 2 - 2M; 3 - 3M.

• <Parameter5> Selects the DH type: 1 - DH1; 3 - DH3; 5 - DH5.

• <Parameter6> Selects the data type: 0 - 1010; 1 - 00001111; 2 - prbs9.

• <Parameter7> Reserved: 0 (optional in the command).

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⚠ Notice:

• ESP8266 only supports Wi-Fi.

• ESP32 supports Wi-Fi+BT, so BT test is only for ESP32.

!
Figure 5-3. Log Output of the BT TX Test

⚠ Notice:

• For the test of BLE TX, make sure “0x71764129” is selected for Syncw.

3. BT RX performance test
(1) To test the RX performance of LE channel 0, choose BLE RX for Test Mode,
0/2404 for Channel, and LE_prbs9 for Data Rate. Please refer to Figure 5-4.
(2) When RX is done, click on stop to check the detailed information of the received
packets. The format of the number of received packets is: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 w 0 0
000000p000b00

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 5. RF Performance Test
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• The first parameter in hexadecimal format indicates the total number of the
received packets.
• The second parameter in hexadecimal format indicates the number of the
received packets at a specific data rate.
• The last parameter in hexadecimal format indicates the number of bit errors.

• The second-to-last hexadecimal parameter indicates the total number of the

received bits at a specific data rate.

!
Figure 5-4. Log Output of the BT RX Test

📖 Note:

• Choose Manual to manually input commands. Ensure to check Add ‘\r’ before you send commands.

• In case of a wireless tester IQView is used to test the DUT’s RF performance on channel 1 at a data
rate of 11n MCS7, the test results will look like the ones in Figure 5-5.

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 5. RF Performance Test
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!
Figure 5-5. RF Performance Test by IQView

📖 Note:

You need to set a correct value for the path loss; otherwise, the test results will be inaccurate.

5.2. Online Help Documentation

Click Help on the menu bar to access the most recent online help documentation. You may
also visit the link: http://espressif.com/en/support/download/other-tools.


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 6. RF Certification Test
!

6. RF Certification Test
6.1. Wi-Fi Certification Test
6.1.1. Environment Setup

1. Download the firmware ESP32_RF_TEST_BIN_XXXX.bin to flash and choose 115200

for BaudRate.
2. When the download process is completed, disconnect GPIO0 and re-power the DUT.
3. Run the bin files. When the setup is done, the DUT is ready for the configuration with the
RF test tool to start the test.

📖 Note:

Follow the instructions in Chapter 5 to configure the serial port and download the firmware.

6.1.2. Test-related Configuration

1. Select wifi Test, and choose TX continue for Test Mode. For WiFi Rate, BandWidth,
Channel and Attenuation, choose the right options according to the certification test
requirements. See the interface below:

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 6. RF Certification Test
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Figure 6-1. Log Output of the WiFi TX Test

📖 Note:

1. About the options under Test Mode:

• TX continue is mainly for a certification test, and it provides a TX duty cycle of 92%;
• Wifiscwout is mainly for single carrier TX.

2. Attenuation indicates the power attenuation in multiples of 0.25 dB. You may set the power
attenuation according to the certification requirements.

2. Click on start to begin sending commands. TX data rates are listed in Table 5-1 for your
reference.
3. Click on stop to terminate the command sending process.
📖 Note:

During the command sending process, make sure to click on stop before switching to other channels or
TX data rates.

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 6. RF Certification Test
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6.2. BT Certification Test

6.2.1. Environment Setup

1. Download the firmware ESP32_RF_TEST_BIN_XXXX.bin to flash and choose 115200

for BaudRate.
2. When the download process is completed, disconnect GPIO0 and re-power the DUT.
3. Run the bin files. When the setup is done, the DUT is ready for configuration with the RF
test tool to start the test.

6.2.2. Test-related Configuration

The BT certification test shares the same testing process as the BT test that is described in
Chapter 5.


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 7. Adaptivity Certification Test
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7. Adaptivity Certification Test

7.1. Environment Setup
1. Download the firmware:
• For ESP32: download ESP32_Adaptivity_XXXX.bin to flash and choose 115200 for
BaudRate.
• For ESP8266: download ESP8266_Adaptivity_XXXX.bin to flash and choose 74880
for BaudRate.
2. When the download process is completed, disconnect GPIO0 and re-power the DUT.
3. Run the bin files. When the setup is done, the DUT is ready for configuration with the RF
test tool to start the test.

7.2. STA Mode

• Select wifi Adaptivity. For the product in Station mode, the interface is shown in Figure
7-1 below.

!
Figure 7-1. Adaptivity Test in STA Mode

• For STA mode, the parameters are described in the table below:

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 7. Adaptivity Certification Test
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Table 7-1. Description of the STA-mode Parameters

Parameters Description

AP ssid Name of the target AP (router)

AP pwd Password for the target AP (router)

Server IP IP of the target host to be connected

Server PORT Port of the target host to be connected

Socket ID UDP socket of the DUT (0 by default)

Packet num Number of TX UDP packets

Packet len Length of TX UDP packets

Packet delay TX interval of UDP packets (in ms)

• Test steps:

- Fill in the AP ssid and AP pwd fields, and then click on connect to connect to AP.
- After the connection to AP is established, set TX parameters (see Table 7-1), and
click on send to start TX.

⚠ Notice:

If starting TX takes a while, set a larger value for Packet num, for example, 6000000.

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 7. Adaptivity Certification Test
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7.3. AP Mode
• Select wifi Adaptivity and choose AP mode.

!
Figure 7-2. Adaptivity Test in AP Mode

• For AP mode, the parameters are described in the table below:

Table 7-2. Description of the AP-mode Parameters

Parameters Description

ssid Name of the DUT as AP

pwd Password for the DUT as AP

chan Channel of the DUT as AP, ranging from 1 to 13

mode Mode of the DUT as AP, for example, B/G/N

Server IP IP of the target host to be connected

Server PORT Port of the target host to be connected

Socket ID UDP socket of the DUT (0 by default)

Packet num Number of TX UDP packets

Packet len Length of TX UDP packets

send delay TX interval of UDP packets (in ms)

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 7. Adaptivity Certification Test
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Test steps:
- Fill in the ssid and pwd fields, and then click on create to create AP (hotspot).
- When AP is successfully created, it is ready for the connection initiated by other
stations.
- Once the connection is established, set TX parameters, and click on send to start
TX.

⚠ Notice:

If starting TX takes a while, set a larger value for Packet num, for example, 6000000.

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 8. ESP32 Wi-Fi/BT Operation Command
!

8. ESP32 Wi-Fi/BT 

Operation Command
To test the EMC/RF performance, please download
ESP32_RF_TEST_BIN_V1.4.6_20181019.bin. Table 8-1 shows the download addresses.

Table 8-1. Download Addresses for the Binaries

Binaries Download Address

ESP32_RF_TEST_BIN_V1.4.6_20181019.bin 0x1000

8.1. Wi-Fi Test Commands

📖 Note:

The baud rate is 115200.

8.1.1. Continuous Tx Enable Command

tx_contin_en <Parameter1>
<Parameter1>: Certification test 100% duty cycle Tx enable, 1 enable 100% duty cycle Tx;
0 off, default mode, for instrument testing such as iqview.
Command: tx_contin_en 1
Return: wifi tx continuous test!
Command: tx_contin_en 0
Return: wifi tx packet test!

8.1.2. Tx Start Command

wifitxout <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3>
<Parameter1>: Select the Tx channel from 1 ~ 14.
<Parameter2>: Select the Tx data rate according to Table 8-2.
<Parameter3>: Tx power attenuation. It is an 8-bit signed operand, in multiples of 0.25 dB.
For example, 4 indicates an attenuation of 1 dB.

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Table 8-2. Parameter2 and Tx Data Rate

11b 11g 11n

Parameter Data rate Parameter Data rate Parameter Data rate

0x0 1 Mbps 0xb 6 Mbps 0x10 6.5 Mbps / MCS0

0x1 2 Mbps 0xf 9 Mbps 0x11 13 Mbps / MCS1

0x2 5.5 Mbps 0xa 12 Mbps 0x12 19.5 Mbps / MCS2

0x3 11 Mbps 0xe 18 Mbps 0x13 26 Mbps / MCS3

- - 0x9 24 Mbps 0x14 39 Mbps / MCS4

- - 0xd 36 Mbps 0x15 52 Mbps / MCS5

- - 0x8 48 Mbps 0x16 58.5 Mbps / MCS6

- - 0xc 54 Mbps 0x17 65 Mbps / MCS7

⚠ Notice:
After sending data packets, please input the Stop command to put an end to the process.

Example:
wifitxout 1 0x0 0
Print: Wifi tx out: channel=1, rate=0x0, BK=0
Send the packets through channel 1 (2412 MHz) with a data rate of 1 Mbps.

8.1.3. Tx Stop Command

cmdstop
Print: Tx Over

⚠ Notice:
After sending data packets, please input the Stop command to change the channel or data rate.

8.1.4. Command for Selecting Tx/Rx 11n Mode 20 Mbps or 40 Mbps

cbw40m_en <Parameter1>
• Command for selecting the 11n HT20 mode:

cbw40m_en 0
Print: cbw40m_en: 0
• Command for selecting the 11n HT40 mode:
cbw40m_en 1
Print: cbw40m_en: 1

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📖 Note:

The 20 Mbps and 40 Mbps modes share the same command.

8.1.5. Rx Start Command

esp_rx <Parameter1> <Parameter2>
<Parameter1>: Select the Rx channel from 1 ~ 14.
<Parameter2>: Select the Rx data rate according to Table 8-2.

⚠ Notice:
After receiving data packets, please input Stop command to put an end to the process.

Example:
esp_rx 1 0x0
Print: wifi rx start: channel is 1, rate is 0x0

Receive the packets in channel 1 (2412 MHz) with a data rate of 1 Mbps.

8.1.6. Rx Stop Command

cmdstop
Print: Correct: 0 Desired: 0 RSSI: 0
Correct indicates the number of received packets.
Desired indicates the number of received packets with the corresponding data rate of
<Parameter2>.
RSSI indicates the average power of the Desired packets received.

8.1.7. SCW Tx Command

wifiscwout <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3>
<Parameter1>: SCW Tx enable signal, 1 = send; 0 = stop.
<Parameter2>: Select the SCW Tx channel from 1 ~ 14.
<Parameter3>: SCW power attenuation. The unit is 0.25 dB. For example, 4 indicates an
attenuation of 1 dB and 8 indicates an attenuation of 2 dB.
• SCW Tx example:
wifiscwout 1 14 0
Print: wifi single carrier tx out
Transmit SCW in channel 14 (2484 MHz)
• SCW Tx stop example:
wifiscwout 0 14 0
Print: wifi single carrier tx stop

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Stop SCW transmission.

8.2. BT Test Commands

📖 Note:

Baud rate is 115200.

8.2.1. BR/EDR Tx Command

fcc_bt_tx <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3> <Parameter4>
<Parameter5> <Parameter6> <Parameter7>
<Parameter1>: Tx power attenuation. The range is 0 ~ 7. The unit is 3 dB; Normally the
value is 4 and the power is about 0 dBm.
<Parameter2>: Enable or disable frequency hopping. 1: enable; 0: disable.
<Parameter3>: Select the Tx channel from 0 ~ 78.
<Parameter4>: Select the modulation mode. 1: 1M; 2: 2M; 3: 3M.
<Parameter5>: Select the DH type. 1: DH1; 3: DH3; 5: DH5.
<Parameter6>: Select the Data type. 0: 1010; 1: 00001111; 2: prbs9.
<Parameter7>: Reserved: 0 (optional in the command).
Example:

fcc_bt_tx 4 0 0 1 3 1 0

Print:
fcc_bt_tx: txpwr=4, hoppe=0, chan=0, rate=1, DH_type=3, data_type=1
RW TX TEST

The command indicates that the Tx power attenuation level is 4; frequency hopping is
disabled; the channel is 0 (2402 MHz); the data rate is BR1M; the DH type is DH3 and
the data type is 00001111.

8.2.2. LE Tx Command
Package identification is not included:
fcc_le_tx <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3> <Parameter4>
<Parameter5>
<Parameter1>: Tx power attenuation. The range is 0 ~ 7. The unit is 3 dB; Normally the
value is 4 and the power is about 0 dBm.
<Parameter2>: Select the Tx channel from 0 ~ 39.
<Parameter3>: Select the payload length. The range is 0 ~ 255. The unit is byte. Normally
the value is 250.
<Parameter4>: Select the Data type. 0: 1010; 1: 00001111; 2: prbs9.

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<Parameter5>: Reserved: 0 (optional in the command).

Example:
fcc_le_tx 4 0 250 2 0

Print:

fcc_le_tx: txpwr=4, chan=0, length=250, data_type=2

RW LE TX NHP

The command indicates that the Tx power attenuation level is 4; the channel is 0 (2402
MHz); the data rate is LE1M and the data type is prbs9.
Package identification is included:

fcc_le_tx_syncw <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3> <Parameter4>

<Parameter5>
<Parameter1>: Tx power attenuation. The range is 0 ~ 7. The unit is 3 dB; Normally the
value is 4 and the power is about 0 dBm.
<Parameter2>: Select the Tx channel from 0 ~ 39.
<Parameter3>: Select the payload length. The range is 0 ~ 255. The unit is byte. Normally
the value is 250.
<Parameter4>: Select the Data type. 0: 1010; 1: 00001111; 2: prbs9.
<Parameter5>: The package's identity. syncw=0x71764129 bu default.
Example:
fcc_le_tx_syncw 4 0 250 2 0x71764129
Print:
fcc_le_tx_syncw: txpwr=4, chan=0, length=250, data_type=2,syncword=0x71764129
RW LE TX NHP
The command indicates that the Tx power attenuation level is 4; the channel is 0 (2402
MHz); the data rate is LE1M and the data type is prbs9. The package's identity syncw is
0x71764129.

8.2.3. Tx Stop Command

cmdstop

8.2.4. BR/EDR Rx Start Command

rw_rx_per <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3> <Parameter4> <Parameter5>
<Parameter1>: 0: BR; 1: EDR.

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<Parameter2>: Select the Rx channel from 0 ～ 78. 0 to 39 represent even-numbered

channels, and 40 to 78 represent odd-numbered channels. For example, if Parameter2 is
0, channel 0 is selected; if Parameter2 is 1, channel 2 is selected; if Parameter2 is 2,
channel 4 is selected, and so on. So if Parameter2 is 39, channel 78 is selected. In
contrast, if Parameter2 is 40, channel 1 is selected; if Parameter2 is 41, channel 3 is
selected; if Parameter2 is 42, channel 5 is selected, and so on. So if Parameter2 is 78,
channel 77 is selected.
<Parameter3>: 32-bit Bluetooth address, including UAP (8-bit) and LAP (24-bit). The value
is determined by the testing equipment.
<Parameter4>: The logical transport address specified by the protocol. The value is
determined by the testing equipment with a range of 0 ~ 7.
<Parameter5>: Reserved: 0 (optional in the command).
Example:

rw_rx_per 1 40 0x6BC6967e 0 0

Print:
rw_rx_per:type=1, chan=40, ulap=0x6BC6967e, ltaddr=0
RW RX PER

The command indicates that the Rx data package is EDR (The DH type, Data type are
selected by the equipment and can be modulated. DH1 is recommended.), the channel
is 1 (2403 MHz), the data rate is 2M or 3M, the bluetooth address is 0x6BC6967e and
the logical transport address is 0.

8.2.5. LE Rx Start Command

rw_le_rx_per <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3>
<Parameter1>: Select the Rx channel number from 0 ~ 39. Channel 0 ,1, 2 ~ 10
correspond to the frequency of 2404 MHz, 2406 MHz, 2408 MHz ~ 2424 MHz,
respectively. Channel 11, 12, 13 ~ 16 correspond to the frequency of 2428 MHz, 2430
MHz, 2432 MHz ~ 2478 MHz, respectively. Channel 37 corresponds to the frequency of
2402 MHz. Channel 38 corresponds to the frequency of 2426 MHz. Channel 39
corresponds to the frequency of 2480 MHz.
<Parameter2>: The data package identify (provided by the data generator or the equipment
supplier).
<Parameter3>: Reserved: 0 (optional in the command).
Example:

rw_le_rx_per 11 0x71764129 0

Print:

rw_le_per_syncw: chan=11, syncw=0x71764129

RW RX PER

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The command indicates that the Rx data package is LE (The Data type is usually
prbs9.); the channel is 11 (2428 MHz); the data rate is 1M and the data identify is
0x71764129.

8.2.6. Rx Stop Command

cmdstop
Input cmdstop command to stop receiving packets. The serial port will print the number of
packets that have been received.
The format of the number of received packets is

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 w 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 p 0 0 0 b 0 0

The first parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the total number of packets
received this time.
The second parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the number of packets
received of the corresponding speed at this time.
The last parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the number of bit errors.
The second-to-last parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the overall number
of the received bits at a certain data rate.

8.2.7. BT Receiving Status Command

cmdstatus
Input cmdstatus command to print the receiving status. The serial port will print the
number of packets that have been received.
The format of the number of received packets is

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 w 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 p 0 0 0 b 0 0
The first parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the total number of packets
received this time.
The second parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the number of packets
received of the corresponding speed at this time.
The last parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the number of bit errors.
The second-to-last parameter (based on hexadecimal system) indicates the overall number
of the received bits at a certain data rate.

8.2.8. SCW Tx Command

bt_tx_tone <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3>
<Parameter1>: SCW Tx enable signal, 1 = send; 0 = stop.
<Parameter2>: Select the SCW Tx channel from 0 ~ 78.
<Parameter3>: SCW power attenuation. The unit is 0.25 dB. For example, 4 indicates an
attenuation of 1 dB.
• SCW Tx example:

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bt_tx_tone 1 0 0
Print: BT TX TONE START!
Transmit SCW in channel 14 (2402 MHz)
• SCW Tx stop example:
bt_tx_tone 0 0 0
Print: BT TX TONE STOP!

Stop SCW transmission.

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 9. ESP8266 Wi-Fi Operation Command
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9. ESP8266 Wi-Fi 

Operation Commands
To test the EMC/RF performance, please download the
ESP8266_RF_TEST_BIN_V127_26m_20180530.bin file or the
ESP8266_RF_TEST_BIN_V127_40m_20180530.bin file.

📖 Note:

The case-sensitive commands should be input in the interactive window of SecureCRT. Please select
Chat Window in the View.

9.1. Test Commands

9.1.1. Continuous Tx Enable Command
tx_contin_en <Parameter1>
<Parameter1>: Certification test 92% duty cycle Tx enable, 1 enable 92% duty cycle Tx; 0
off, default mode, for instrument testing such as iqview.
Command: tx_contin_en 1
Return: wifi tx continuous test!
Command: tx_contin_en 0
Return: wifi tx packet test!

9.1.2. Tx Start Command

wifitxout <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3>
<Parameter1>: Select the Tx channel from 1 ~ 14.
<Parameter2>: Select the Tx data rate according to Table 9-1.
<Parameter3>: It is an 8-bit signed operand that indicates Tx power attenuation. The unit is
0.25 dB. Value 4 means an attenuation of 1 dB, and 252 means a gain of 1 dB.

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Table 9-1. <Parameter2> and Tx Data Rate

11b 11g 11n

Parameter Data rate Parameter Data rate Parameter Data rate

0x0 1 Mbps 0xb 6 Mbps 0x10 6.5 Mbps / MCS0

0x1 2 Mbps 0xf 9 Mbps 0x11 13 Mbps / MCS1

0x2 5.5 Mbps 0xa 12 Mbps 0x12 19.5 Mbps / MCS2

0x3 11 Mbps 0xe 18 Mbps 0x13 26 Mbps / MCS3

- - 0x9 24 Mbps 0x14 39 Mbps / MCS4

- - 0xd 36 Mbps 0x15 52 Mbps / MCS5

- - 0x8 48 Mbps 0x16 58.5 Mbps / MCS6

- - 0xc 54 Mbps 0x17 65 Mbps / MCS7

⚠ Notice:
After sending data packets, please input the Stop command to end the process.

Example:
wifitxout 1 0x0 0
Print: Wifi tx out: channel is 1, data_rate is 11b 1.0Mb/s
Send the packets via channel 1 (2412 MHz) with the data rate of 1 Mbps.

9.1.3. Tx Stop Command

cmdstop
Print: Tx Over

⚠ Notice:
After sending data packets, please input the Stop command to switch the channel or data rate.

9.1.4. Rx Start Command

esp_rx <Parameter1> <Parameter2>
<Parameter1>: Select the Rx channel from 1 ~ 14.

<Parameter2>: Select the Rx data rate according to Table 9-1.

⚠ Notice:
After receiving data packets, please input Stop command to end the process.

Example:
esp_rx 1 0x0

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Print: wifi rx start: channel is 1, rate is 0x0

Receive the packets via channel 1 (2412 MHz) with a data rate of 1 Mbps.

9.1.5. Rx Stop Command

cmdstop
Print: Correct: 0 Desired: 0 RSSI: 0
Correct means the number of packets received.
Desired means the number of packets received with the corresponding data rate of
<Parameter2>.
RSSI means the average power of the Desired packets received.

9.1.6. SCW Command

wifiscwout <Parameter1> <Parameter2> <Parameter3>
<Parameter1>: SCW sending enable signal, 1 = send; 0 = stop.
<Parameter2>: Select the SCW sending channel from 1 ~ 14.
<Parameter3>: It is an 8-bit signed operand that indicates SCW power attenuation. The unit
is 0.25 dB. 4 means an attenuation of 1 dB, and 252 means a gain of 1 dB.
• SCW Tx example:
wifiscwout 1 14 0
Print: wifi single carrier tx out
Transmit SCW in channel 14 (2484 MHz)
• SCW Tx stop example:
wifiscwout 0 14 0
Print: wifi single carrier tx stop

Stop SCW transmission.

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 Appendix A
!

A. Appendix – Install a UART

Driver on the Serial Port Board
1. Use a micro-USB cable to connect the serial port board to the PC. A UART driver will be
installed automatically.

!
Figure A-1. Installing UART Driver on the PC

When the installation is finished, the following prompt will appear:

!
Figure A-2. UART Driver Installed

⚠ Notice:

If the UART driver installation fails, you can install ./Tools/ft232r-usb-uart.zip provided by Espressif.

2. The RF test tool will automatically check the port number that will appear in the
dropdown menu in the serial port configuration section.

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 Disclaimer and Copyright Notice
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notice.
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INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, NON-INFRINGEMENT, FITNESS
FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY WARRANTY OTHERWISE ARISING OUT
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Espressif IoT Team
property of their respective owners, and are hereby acknowledged.
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