Requirements for modern eCall systems 

The requirements for modern eCall systems have risen significantly in recent years. While mandatory EU eCall initially represented primarily a regulatory task, emergency call architectures with NGeCall, hybrid implementations, and regional variants such as ERA-GLONASS are increasingly evolving into complex, IP-based communication systems. For automotive manufacturers and suppliers, this means that without realistic test infrastructure, conformity, interoperability, and system stability can hardly be ensured. 

Setup of the test environment 

CarByte provides a comprehensive test environment for this purpose, with which eCall and Call Service scenarios can be simulated and validated under realistic conditions. The goal is to offer OEMs and suppliers a secure, reproducible, and practical test basis for development, pre-series, and homologation phases. 

ANRITSU MD8475B emulator for mobile network cell simulation 

A central element of the infrastructure is the ANRITSU MD8475B simulator. With this system, complete mobile network cells in 2G, 3G, and 4G frequencies can be simulated. In combination with an ANRITSU PSAP simulation, EU eCall, ERA-GLONASS, NGeCall, and Private SOS Call Center scenarios can be tested realistically. Particularly relevant here is the transmission of the Minimum Set of Data (MSD), both classically via in-band and, in the case of NGeCall, IP-based via SIP. This makes it possible to test complete call flows: from call setup and MSD transmission to callback mechanisms and targeted fault scenarios in the network. 

Amarisoft Call Box Mini for 4G and 5G networks 

Another component of the test environment is the Amarisoft Call Box Mini. It can be used to set up standalone 4G and 5G networks and to analyze NGeCall SIP flows in detail in particular. Although no fully fledged PSAP is integrated here, essential functions can be triggered and tested via traces and console commands—for example, MSD transmission via SIP Invite, MSD requests via SIP INFO, call setup, or callback scenarios. Especially in the area of disaster warning testing for the Australian market, this infrastructure offers considerable potential, as warning mechanisms and network-side triggers can be evaluated under controlled conditions. 

Expansion of the test environment: Shielded Box 

For reproducible and interference-free tests, CarByte also operates three Shielded Boxes. A larger version is intended for extensive setups such as ConMod systems, while a more compact box can be used for smaller TCU setups. Both variants have antenna connections, USB and power interfaces, LAN, and enable stable test conditions without external radio interference. Only under such controlled framework conditions can valid statements be made about system behavior and network interaction. 

Conclusion: Secure and comprehensive eCall testing with CarByte

With the existing infrastructure, almost all relevant scenarios can now be covered: EU eCall, NGeCall, hybrid implementations, ERA-GLONASS, private call services, and backend-integrated solutions. In addition, specific conditions can be simulated, such as network changes, different mobile operators, regional frequency bands—for example for US control units—or border-crossing situations. With structured preparation and a clearly defined test scope, it is possible to create the prerequisites for official or pre-official CTP tests in the area of all call services, but especially in the area of NGeCall, within a very short time. 

In summary, it is clear that realistic eCall testing is technically possible on a comprehensive basis—provided that mobile network emulation, PSAP simulation, SIP analysis, backend integration, and shielded test environments work together. CarByte provides the necessary systems and the corresponding know-how to support OEMs and suppliers in the secure validation of their eCall and Call Service architectures. Early, structured testing significantly reduces homologation risks and creates security for global vehicle programs. By using a complete test environment in the area of call services, a high number of errors can already be identified and resolved in advance and during ongoing development. Furthermore, an initial assessment and addition to later test trips carried out in the development cycle to the respective countries can be made. By acquiring the technical equipment described in this article, CarByte's existing offering was additionally expanded alongside the already existing 4G/5G lab: 4G/5G Mobility Lab: Comprehensive testing options for mobile network technologies - CarByte - Technology Solutions for a driving digital future.  

With the current setup, test automation can also be implemented and has already been successfully realized. Another more detailed article and experience report on this topic will follow. In this sense, stay tuned, more to come.