Viavi Solutions has opened its new VALOR (Viavi Automated Lab-as-a-Service) testing facility in Chandler, Arizona, aimed at advancing Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technologies. VALOR offers a flexible, automated, pay-as-you-go testing service, designed to meet the growing need for accessible, comprehensive testing solutions. The lab’s development was supported by a $21.7 million grant from the U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund.
VALOR provides a range of testing capabilities, including interoperability, performance, and security evaluations for Open RAN systems. Viavi’s solutions, including the Nitro Wireless Open RAN Test Suite and the VAMOS (Viavi Automation Management and Orchestration System), form the backbone of the lab. Additionally, technology from other test companies, such as Rohde & Schwarz, helps bolster the lab’s capabilities in areas like network energy-saving assessments and massive MIMO performance testing.
Viavi’s CEO, Oleg Khaykin, highlighted that VALOR will offer rapid, end-to-end testing solutions for technology vendors, accelerating Open RAN adoption and expanding the ecosystem. The facility is expected to support over 500 test cases for Open RAN and 3GPP specifications.
The lab has already gained recognition as the first authorized testing facility for the Telecom Infra Project, helping to streamline certification and implementation of O-RAN technologies. The NTIA grant aligns with U.S. government efforts to strengthen Open RAN development, focusing on improving testing, security, and overall network performance.
NTIA’s Sarah Skaluba emphasized the importance of testing in Open RAN’s success, with hopes that VALOR will drive long-term benefits for the industry.
