Show overview
INNOVATIONS UNPLUGGED – the Rohde & Schwarz technology podcast has been publishing since 2024, and across the 2 years since has built a catalogue of 18 episodes. That works out to roughly 7 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a monthly cadence.
Episodes typically run twenty to thirty-five minutes — most land between 22 min and 25 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Technology show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 3 months ago, with 5 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2025, with 9 episodes published. Published by Rohde & Schwarz.
From the publisher
Welcome to INNOVATIONS UNPLUGGED - the Rohde & Schwarz technology podcast. Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at innovations and explore their real-world applications. Think your smartphone, airplane or favorite streaming platform works on its own? Think again! Behind almost every signal – from 5G networks and aerospace systems to artificial intelligence and quantum technologies – there’s an innovation you’ve probably never heard of… but you should. Our guests take you inside the challenges and breakthroughs that drive engineers, researchers and visionaries at Rohde & Schwarz. Whether you’re a high-tech enthusiast, an industry professional or just curious about the invisible engineering shaping our lives – this is the podcast for you.
Latest Episodes
Ep 18[MWC2026 special] No dropped calls, no drama: AI reliability boost for your mobile connectivity
This episode drops just before Mobile World Congress 2026, where Rohde & Schwarz will showcase cutting-edge solutions for 5G-Advanced, AI-driven networks, and satellite-enabled connectivity. Tune in early to stay ahead of the curve – and join the conversation in Barcelona. In a world where seamless connectivity is non-negotiable, how can AI ensure your calls don’t drop and your data streams effortlessly? This episode of Innovations Unplugged dives into AI RAN. From smarter signal processing to future-proofing 6G, discover how artificial intelligence can make mobile communication faster, more reliable, and energy-efficient.
Ep 17[MWC2026 special] From fridge to factory: Can Wi-Fi handle 1,000 routers?
This episode drops just before Mobile World Congress 2026, where Rohde & Schwarz will showcase cutting-edge solutions for 5G-Advanced, AI-driven networks, and satellite-enabled connectivity. Tune in early to stay ahead of the curve – and join the conversation in Barcelona. From home routers to factory floors, Wi-Fi is the invisible thread stitching our digital lives together. But with more than 20 billion IoT devices now online, can Wi-Fi keep up? In this episode of Innovations Unplugged, we explore Wi-Fi 8, dive into the technical challenges of unlicensed spectrum, interference chaos, and the race to future-proof critical applications like industrial automation and smart cities.
Ep 16[MWC2026 special] A video call from space? Not yet. – 5G on Earth via satellite? Already reality.
This episode drops just before Mobile World Congress 2026, where Rohde & Schwarz will showcase cutting-edge solutions for 5G-Advanced, AI-driven networks, and satellite-enabled connectivity. Tune in early to stay ahead of the curve – and join the conversation in Barcelona. How to ensure reliable connectivity in a world where dead zones still lack mobile coverage? Geopolitical tensions, climate events and increasing digital dependency highlight the fragility of terrestrial infrastructure. Now is the moment to understand how satellite‑enhanced 5G will redefine communication resilience. In the latest episode of Innovations Unplugged, we explore how 5G Non‑Terrestrial Networks (5G NTN) will fundamentally change the way we communicate – on land, at sea and in the sky.
Ep 15Clean signals, safe skies: Finding interference, drones – and a broken washing machine …
Wireless keeps the world moving, until it doesn’t. From airports and stadiums to city centers, the radio spectrum is more crowded, and mission‑critical, than ever. In this episode of Innovations Unplugged, we reveal how Rohde & Schwarz technology keeps our invisible radio frequency highway safe, and how a new partnership with European-based laser expert TRUMPF tackles the toughest threat of all: autonomous dark drones. Expect clear tech explanations, insights of inside a Formula 1 circus, and a story about a faulty washing machine disrupting airport operations.
Ep 14Radar reinvented? How to fast-track road safety, airport security, and AI training – all at once
Think radar is only for fighter jets? Think again. From automatic toilet flushes to advanced driver assistance to airport security scanners, radar is everywhere – and it’s getting a hyper-realistic upgrade. Drones grounding airports. Cars that must “see” hundreds of meters ahead. AI that learns only as fast as you can feed it clean, labeled data. More and more industries ask for faster, safer testing and reliable AI – without endless, costly real-world trials. This episode explores how digital radar twins and synthetic, perfectly labeled data help accelerate development, lower risk and cost, and power next level radar AI to ensure a safer and connected world.
Ep 13Quantum revolution beyond the hype: how Zurich Instruments helps build a meaningful quantum computer
2025 has been the year the second quantum revolution took center stage. With UNESCO’s International Year of Quantum Science & Technology and the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics spotlighting quantum breakthroughs, the world is watching as theory transforms into reality. In this episode of “Innovations Unplugged”, we embrace a century of quantum innovation – from atomic clocks underpinning GPS to quantum computing’s potential to solve global challenges.
Ep 12See the unseen: When airport security meets pharma packaging or how to check in on Schrödinger’s cat
Let’s imagine being a superhero for a moment. What if you could see through closed containers or sealed packages – without actually opening any of them? What if you could verify what’s in there, find out what’s missing, or even detect hidden threats in seconds – without damaging the box? Metaphorically, millimeter-wave imaging technology is a reality check on Schrödinger’s Paradox. The non-invasive imaging technology is already a game-changer in airport security scanners around the world. Now, curiosity drives Rohde & Schwarz engineers to ask a simple yet powerful question: “What’s next?” In this episode, we’ll take a closer listen to one of their answers and check in with an industry expert on phar-maceutical quality control. **Explore with us** 1. Airport security 2.0: How 100+ images/second enable real-time threat detection in walk-through scanners now certified in Europe. 2. The “first image” moment: Why every new scan is a live experiment and each sample reveals new, real-time data, inspiring innovation. 3. X-Ray vs. millimeter-wave: Why the latter is a solution to verify drug packaging integrity without damaging sensitive biologics. 4. Speed meets precision: Innovations like inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) to process 160 packages/minute in pharma lines. 5. Future-proof tech: From submarine glass to logistics, how mm-wave imaging tech is able to adapt to diverse industries. **Our guest** - Kaspar Widmer-Cantz, industry expert and co-founder of pharma inspection specialist Obviotec, reveals the potential to bridge critical gaps in end-of-line pharmaceutical checks. - Andreas von Lösecke, a Rohde & Schwarz expert for millimeter-wave imaging, breaks down the engineering behind the technology, and explores its potential for future applications across industries. **Our hosts** - Markus Haller, Rohde & Schwarz, blends his expertise as a physicist, former tech journalist, and corporate communications professional to make scientific insights and technological innovations accessible. - Inga Müller-Siedentopp, Rohde & Schwarz, combines a background in economics and political science with experiences in journalism and a passion for corporate storytelling to translate complex technology into stories that stick. **Our topics** mm-wave imaging, pharma quality control, airport security, non-invasive inspection, ISAR technology, Obvi-otec, Rohde & Schwarz, AI, end-of-line testing, material penetration, industrial applications **Join the conversation** Do you have suggestions? What topics are you interested in? We look forward to your email at [email protected] **Deep dive** [Find out everything about the R&S Imager and its limitless possibilities](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/de/loesungen/security/security-screening/imager_256948.html) [Follow the Rohde & Schwarz Automotive channel on LinkedIn to stay up to date on all things imag-ing](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/rohde-schwarz_teaser-rs-mmw-imaging-cluster-activity-7351859581641207808-hIKg?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAhIxg0BXr9YOnO2q2aibCCPNr2rL1Ngi0Y) [Discover Swiss-based pharma inspection specialist Obviotec](https://www.obviotec.com/) [Take a deep dive on security screening solutions and watch the Youtube playlist](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKxVoO5jUTlsICJLGT2pN3bjRdemzQSRa) **Even more Rohde & Schwarz to listen to** [SIGNALS - The Defense Podcast | Rohde & Schwarz](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/solutions/aerospace-and-defense/multi-domain/signals-defense-podcast_257904.html) **About us** Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its leading-edge solutions. Committed to innovation for more than 90 years, the independent technology group acts long-term and sustainably, making it a reliable partner to its industry and government customers worldwide. [www.rohde-schwarz.com](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/)
Ep 11From 6G to quantum computing and AI: How a 1950s invention shapes tech giants of today and tomorrow
Ever wondered what makes your smartphone, satellite, or self-driving car function flawlessly? Meet an unsung hero behind it all: the Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). This 75-year-old technology was invented by Rohde & Schwarz pioneers and is an invisible enabler of RF engineering. In this episode, we unravel its journey from analog labs to AI-driven precision, and why it’s more vital now than ever. **Explore with us** - The Birth of a Game-Changer: How the Z-g-Diagraph pioneered Smith chart visualization in 1950 - Everyday Tech, Supercharged: Why to rely on VNAs to test 12M+ smartphone filters per week - Beyond the Lab: About a surprising application in astrophysics to explore black holes - Future-proof innovations: How VNAs adapt to quantum computing, terahertz tech, and AI-driven systems - Culture check: What drives Rohde & Schwarz engineers to continuously push technological boundaries **Our guest** - Michael Fischlein, Vice President Spectrum & Network Analyzers, EMC and Antenna Test Equipment at Rohde & Schwarz, shares firsthand insights into how VNAs have quietly shaped 75 years of innovation, from radar systems to tomorrow’s quantum breakthroughs. **Our hosts** - Markus Haller, Rohde & Schwarz - Inga Müller-Siedentopp, Rohde & Schwarz **Our topics** Vector Network Analyzer (VNA), test and measurement, wireless communications, component testing, mass production, 5G, quantum computing, 6G, Rohde & Schwarz, RF testing, RF engineering, automotive radar, satellite tech, astrophysics, AI-driven systems, terahertz communication **Join the conversation** Do you have suggestions? What topics are you interested in? We look forward to your email at [email protected] **Deep dive** [Find out more about the history of 75 years of vector network analyzers](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/products/test-and-measurement/analyzers/network-analyzers/75-years-vna_258255.html?bid=2707286) [Discover the full Rohde & Schwarz vector network analyzer portfolio](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/products/test-and-measurement/network-analyzers_64043.html) [Watch this video learn when to use an LCR meter vs a VNA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PahPyzaZv2g) **Even more Rohde & Schwarz to listen to** [SIGNALS - The Defense Podcast | Rohde & Schwarz](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/solutions/aerospace-and-defense/multi-domain/signals-defense-podcast_257904.html) **About us** Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its leading-edge solutions. Committed to innovation for more than 90 years, the independent technology group acts long-term and sustainably, making it a reliable partner to its industry and government customers worldwide. [www.rohde-schwarz.com](https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/)
Ep 10Wi-Fi on Mars? Why network technology is mission-critical to keeping analog astronauts connected
Let’s leave Earth’s digital comfort zone and explore the simulated Martian wilderness—where the sand is real, the space suits are bulky, and connectivity is crucial. The Austrian Space Forum (ÖWF) regularly emulates the astronautical exploration of the Red Planet, to prepare for future manned missions to Mars. Network technology from LANCOM Systems keeps the analog missions online, even in the most extreme conditions. From high-stakes field tests to digital sovereignty and beyond, this episode blends curiosity and cutting-edge tech to keep Earthlings listening.
Ep 9[GERMAN ONLY] Über Quantentechnologie, einen Messtechnik-Geburtstag und eine Reise zum Mars: So spannend geht’s weiter
Wir arbeiten bereits mit Hochdruck an neuen Themen für eine neue Staffel. Damit noch mehr Hörerinnen und Hörer uns folgen können, geht es bald auf Englisch weiter. Welche Technologien werden wir uns genauer anschauen? Welche Themen und Gäste haben uns bis jetzt begeistert?
Ep 8[GERMAN ONLY] Aus der Forschung in die Praxis: Wie KI-basierte Robotik die Elektronikproduktion revolutioniert
Robotik-Anwendungen im Produktionsumfeld sind in der Regel auf Masse ausgelegt. Eine Kleinserienfertigung zu automatisieren, vor allem im Bereich der Elektronikproduktion, ist bislang eine Herausforderung. Künstliche Intelligenz kann Abhilfe schaffen. Wir finden heraus, wie.
Ep 7[GERMAN ONLY] "Irgendwas mit Hightech?" - Perspektiven durch die Ausbildung in einem globalen Technologiekonzern
Wie nah dran an Hightech sind denn unsere jüngsten Kolleginnen und Kollegen wirklich? Was ist das Besondere an einer Ausbildung oder einem Dualen Studium bei Rohde & Schwarz, einem Familienunternehmen auf der einen Seite und Technologieweltmarktführer auf der anderen?
Ep 6[GERMAN ONLY] Kritische Infrastrukturen schützen: Vom Sport-Großereignis bis zum globalen Finanzsystem
Im zweiten Teil geht es um konkrete Projekte: Wie schützt man die Infrastruktur von Sportgroßereignissen, landesweiten Verkehrsnetzen oder sogar globalen Finanzsystemen?
Ep 5[GERMAN ONLY] Kritische Infrastrukturen schützen: die Lebensadern einer Gesellschaft
Stromnetze, Wasserversorgung, Kommunikationsnetzwerke oder Krankenhäuser. Heute sprechen wir über die sogenannte kritische Infrastruktur einer Gesellschaft und wie Rohde & Schwarz mit Unternehmen und Behörden weltweit für deren Schutz zusammenarbeitet. Hören Sie rein und erfahren Sie mehr.
Ep 4[GERMAN ONLY] Rohde & Schwarz trifft Deutsches Museum: ein Technologiekonzern hat Technikgeschichte geschrieben
Ein Technikmuseum erklärt, wie Technik funktioniert. Aber wie funktioniert eigentlich ein Technikmuseum? Und welche Geräte von Rohde & Schwarz haben so tiefe Abdrücke in der Geschichte hinterlassen, dass sie es ins Museum geschafft haben? Das erklärt Luise Allendorf.
Ep 3[GERMAN ONLY] Mobilfunk gestern, heute & morgen: im Vogelflug von 3G zu 6G
In Teil 2 zum Mobilfunk gehen wir mit unseren Gästen in schnellem Schritt von 3G zu 5G. Mit dem Übergang von 5G zu 6G sollen bald auch Satellitenverbindungen per Smartphone möglich werden – was bisher den Satellitentelefonen vorbehalten ist. Wir erfahren auch, dass Nachhaltigkeit im Mobilfunk immer wichtiger wird.
Ep 2[GERMAN ONLY] Mobilfunk gestern, heute & morgen: das GSM-Netz, oder ein europäisches Kind erobert die Welt
Eine weltweite Erfolgsgeschichte wurde der Mobilfunk erst mit dem 2G-Standard. Wie es dazu kam und warum die Messtechnik von Rohde & Schwarz dabei eine ganz wesentliche Rolle gespielt hat, erklären unsere Gäste Heinz Mellein und Reiner Stuhlfauth.
Ep 1[GERMAN ONLY] Vom Zwei-Mann-Labor zum globalen Technologiekonzern: das ist Rohde & Schwarz
In München ist mit Rohde & Schwarz ein echter Hidden Champion beheimatet, der seit mehr als 90 Jahren erfolgreich den Weltmarkt bedient. Christian Reiter, Leiter des zentralen Marketings und der weltweiten Unternehmenskommunikation, stellt den Konzern kurz und bündig vor.