Inconsistent PDoA readings on dual-antenna DW3000 setup — ranging is stable

Wireless Connectivity Ultra-Wideband
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1

Hi everyone,
I’m hoping to get some guidance on a UWB/PDoA issue our team is troubleshooting.
Our system currently has three UWB nodes:

  • Bot:** dual-antenna UWB module — this is where PDoA is measured
  • Node 1:** single UWB antenna
  • Node 2:** single UWB antenna

The bot receives UWB messages from the other nodes and captures PDoA on each received message . Our ranging measurements are working reliably, but the PDoA/angle-related measurements are very inconsistent, even when the physical setup is stationary.
So far, we’re trying to determine whether the problem is coming from:

  • Antenna/PCB design or antenna spacing
  • Antenna phase/delay calibration
  • RF path differences between the two receive channels
  • Firmware/configuration or how we’re capturing PDoA
  • Indoor multipath/reflections
  • Something fundamental we’re overlooking in the PDoA implementation

We can also share the relevant dual-antenna module PCB/layout and additional test data if that would help diagnose the issue.

For those who have worked with Qorvo DW3000-series PDoA systems, what would you recommend checking first when ranging is stable but PDoA measurements are inconsistent?

Also, are there specific diagnostics or raw measurements we should capture that would help distinguish between a hardware/calibration issue and a firmware/configuration issue?

Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks!
Reza Far.

2

What UWB interface are you using to capture the PDOA on the bot?

3

Good morning,
I am trying to confirm the interface used with my engieer, but it’s either SPI or I2C. Would love to get your input for either cases if possible. Thanks again.

4

I can’t help there, I don’t use the direct interface, I use twr. but that is only 1:1

5

Thanks for letting me know.