Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz

Transcription

1 Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz

2 Mobile network testing from Rohde & Schwarz. Test solutions for the complete network lifecycle. Rohde & Schwarz, together with its subsidiaries SwissQual and ipoque, offers an unparalleled breadth of solutions for mobile network testing from the radio access network to backhaul and the core, helping to ensure network performance and subscriber quality of service. The complete portfolio of mobile network testing solutions is designed with the renowned Rohde & Schwarz technical excellence to give network operators, infrastructure suppliers and service providers a competitive advantage in applications such as network deployment, interference hunting, RAN optimization, benchmarking, security, IP analytics and QoS monitoring. Installation & maintenance Mobile network testing applications from the RAN to the core Interference Radio access network Macro cells HetN Indoor/DAS This comprehensive portfolio offers the advantage of solutions coordinated across different applications (including planning, deployment, optimization and operation) plus the efficiency of a single supplier with an integrated global support network able to provide insight into customer experience, from the user equipment to the core. No other company offers such a range and depth of mobile network testing solutions to ensure network performance. Network planning Network deployment Network optimization Network operation RAN optimization Benchmarking 2

3 hunting Remote monitoring IP analytics Backhaul Core network ets Fiber Microwave Policy and monetization Test and certification lab Network operations center Walk test Planning Lab test Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 3

4 Network planning Network planning is the initial phase of a new network roll out or technology enhancement. The overall goal in any network is to deliver the required coverage and capacity and to fulfill quality of service targets while meeting defined financial objectives. 4

5 The widespread use of smartphones, the proliferation of new data-intensive services and consistent traffic growth drive mobile operators to continue to invest in the network. But with the average revenue per subscriber (ARPS) falling, correct planning is crucial to focus and optimize such investments. Network planning starts with several critical business decisions, including defining financial targets and setting performance objectives for coverage, capacity and QoS. These objectives drive the link budget calculations, which in turn influence network infrastructure selection, channel propagation models and frequency/code resource planning. Network infrastructure selection and channel propagation planning are not merely exercises in software modeling. Laboratory and field tests have to be conducted in order to build confidence that the network will perform as required when it is deployed. Radio access network lab testing The capabilities of new technologies, new features or new services must first be verified in a lab environment where special network conditions are tested. Testing is carried out in an isolated network environment using user equipment (UE) simulators or precommercial devices connected to a complete radio access and core network. Although such lab setups do not fully reflect real network environments, they do allow verification of fundamental functionality and objectives. The results from network lab testing are essential factors in network planning decision-making. It is crucial to have a test tool that can connect and control existing and, even more importantly, precommercial mobile devices, since the new technologies or services being tested might not yet be commercially available. Such a tool should be able to trace the RF interface and run application layer service tests to collect essential key performance indicators (KPI). The ROMES4 software platform for RF optimization, coverage verification, troubleshooting and interference detection provides an optimal solution for such requirements. ROMES4 drive test software Universal software platform for RF planning, optimization, coverage verification, trouble-shooting and interference detection Powerful map handling Data can be captured off-air in realtime using the TSMx family band-unlimited scanning receivers Recording and visualization of test parameters, data is processed instantly and statistics are calculated in realtime. Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 5

6 Base station lab testing The performance of a wireless network infrastructure, e.g. transmit power, downlink timing error and receive sensitivity, has a critical effect on the overall network performance. Selecting equipment such as components, modules and even the entire base station with the right specifications is therefore a key decision. RF characteriszation of network equipment can be done by performing user-defined receiver, transmitter and performance tests or by verifying that the equipment complies with 3GPP standards. Rohde & Schwarz test equipment such as spectrum analyzers and vector signal generators can conduct all required TX, RX and performance tests in line with the relevant standard. For example, EUTRA base stations can be measured against 3GPP TS36.141, Rel. 10 (LTE-Advanced). Many Rohde & Schwarz vector signal generators and spectrum analyzers have special adaptations for enode B testing, such as envelope tracking, embedded faders and multistandard radio analysis. In addition, free software is available that automates the tests and generates comprehensive reports. SMW200A vector signal Ggenerator High-performance vector signal generator capable of 3GPPcompliant receiver and performance tests on the network infrastructure Optional integrated fading simulator with up to 160 MHz bandwidth Support of all key MIMO modes including 3x3, 4x4 and 8x2 Support of all key cellular and noncellular standards including GSM/UMTS, LTE/LTE-A, WLAN, Bluetooth, DVB, etc. FSW signal and spectrum analyzer High-performance spectrum analyzer capable of 3GPP-compliant transmitter tests on the network infrastructure Simultaneous multistandard radio analysis Support of all key cellular and noncellular standards including GSM/UMTS, LTE/LTE-A, WLAN, Bluetooth, DVB, etc. R&S NRP wideband power sensor High measurement accuracy wideband diode power sensors Timeslot average power measurements on TDMA-based signals (e.g. GSM/EDGE) Control and monitoring via LAN, USB and web browser Display of CCDF, CDF and PDF statistics for analyzing CDMA (3GPP) and OFDM (LTE) signals The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Rohde & Schwarz is under license. CDMA2000 is a registered trademark of the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA-USA). WiMAX Forum is a registered trademark of the WiMAX Forum. WiMAX, the WiMAX Forum logo, WiMAX Forum Certified, and the WiMAX Forum Certified logo are trademarks of the WiMAX Forum. 6

7 Spectral clearance It is often necessary to re-deploy or eliminate existing transmitters to ensure a clean RF environment before deploying additional transmitters in a network. This process, known as spectral clearance, requires an appropriate RF scanner such as the TSMW to fully capture all the signals present in the band of interest and then plan the spectrum for future use. Using a mobile device for this would be too slow and would not have the necessary accuracy or sensitivity. Often existing broadcast and cellular services are moved from one frequency band to another to make way for the deployment of new services. For example, W-CDMA may be refarmed to another frequency band to make way for LTE. The PR100 portable receiver is a convenient handheld instrument for characterizing the RF environment and locating transmitters. RAN field trials and capacity planning Network planning tools rely on accurate link budget prediction using RF propagation models. These models must be validated in the field using an appropriate scanner such as the TSMW. Field testing is therefore required in the planning phase to obtain a baseline characterization of the RF environment, accounting for aspects such as signal propagation, network load and traffic profiles. The results from such a field trial are used to calibrate the propagation model, ensuring greater predictability when the network is deployed Network core capacity planning To mitigate potential congestion in mobile networks, an understanding of the current traffic volume and future demand is required to ensure sufficient capacity is designed into the network. Analysis of IP traffic shows the volume and type of data being transmitted on a network, making it possible to identify trends. These can be short-term trends such as the profile or traffic during the day broken down by location, device type or user application or longterm trends such as the development of traffic over a year, including tracking the popularity of particular applications such as IP telephony and video streaming. This insight can be obtained by placing probes in the core network to intercept traffic, classify it and then relay it to a suitable software application for statistical analysis. ipoque Net Reporter uses IP traffic and subscriber analytics to enable operators to gain visibility of the usage of the network and build up business intelligence for the purposes of planning, customer care and targeted marketing. R&S TSMW universal radio network analyzer Scanning receiver for GSM, WCDMA, CDMA2000 1xEVDO, WiMAX, LTE (FDD, TDD) and TD-SCDMA networks for all frequency bands from 30 MHz to 6GHz Automatic channel detection for UMTS, LTE, CDMA and 1xEV-DO for fast measurement setup Integrated GPS LTE MIMO measurements ipoque Net Reporter IP traffic analytics IP traffic monitoring, reporting and trend analysis Troubleshooting to individual subscriber level Visibility of applications, protocols, devices and location Applications include QoS assurance, capacity planning and targeted marketing Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 7

8 Network deployment Mobile network operators deploying, upgrading and maintaining their networks require portable field tools to measure the performance of the BTS infrastructure. 8

9 During this phase, a new cell site must be installed, commissioned and verified in accordance with a predefined test procedure to ensure its performance when operational. Handheld field test tools enable measurements such as VSWR, distance-to-fault and spectrum measurements to be made either by direct connection or over-the-air using an appropriate antenna. Test tools must be adaptated to the type of network architecture, from macro cells to remote radio heads and DAS systems, to take into account connectivity, power and performance specifications. Field installation and maintenance The RAN with its transmit and receive characteristics is the often the weakest link in the equipment chain that forms the mobile network s interface to the subscriber. Indeed, around 70 % of subscriber issues originate in the RAN. Moreover, the antenna system is strongly affected by environmental conditions. Any resulting faults, at least during their initial stages, do not generally trigger an automatic fault alarm and can therefore remain undetected by network operators for a long period of time even while causing a degradation in the site s performance and reduced QoS for subscribers. For these reasons, BTS antenna systems, amplifiers and cabling need special attention. Test tools for field use require special adaptations to operate easily and efficiently in an outdoor environment. All Rohde & Schwarz installation and maintenance products, such as the handheld ZVH, FSH and PR100, are rugged and low weight with a user interface designed for field operation. They provide all the functions that RF technicians need to install and maintain transmitter systems, test components, assess signal quality, locate RF interference and automate tests to ensure a consistent test procedure. The SwissQual QualiPoc smartphone-based network tester is ideal for small cell and DAS commissioning. ZVH cable and antenna analyzer Cable and antenna tester for BTS installation and maintenance Accurate measurement of VSWR, cable loss, distance-to-fault Power measurements with directional and terminating power sensors, e.g. NRP-xxS Easy-to-replace lithium ion battery for up to 4.5 h of operation FSH handheld spectrum analyzer Fully functional spectrum analyzer with integrated cable and antenna tester, vector network analyzer, modulation analyzer, interference analyzer and power meter Downlink analysis of LTE FDD, TD-LTE, 3GPP WCDMA, GSM and CDMA2000 1xEV-DO Automatic test report generation Low weight (3 kg /6.6 lb) SwissQual QualiPoc android Handheld voice and data service quality troubleshooting and optimization Ideal for small cell and DAS installation and commissioning Delivers in-depth network performance metrics NRT power reflection meter Power measurements on transmitters and amplifiers Compatible with all main digital standards, such as GSM/EDGE, WCDMA, TETRA, LTE Simultaneous display of reflection and power such as peak power, crest factor and average burst power Direct connection of the sensor to a PC Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 9

10 Network optimization To achieve optimum network efficiency and ensure the required RAN coverage, network optimization is required. 10

11 Drive tests, walk tests or fixed probes are used to measure network coverage and performance. The results are analyzed using sophisticated software such as ROMES4 to identify potential areas for network improvement. Benchmarking uses the simultaneous measurement of multiple cellular networks to evaluate the relative performance of each network. This process shows the operator the strengths and weaknesses of his own and competitor networks for the purposes of strategic network development and marketing. Rohde & Schwarz and SwissQual offer a wide variety of optimization and benchmarking solutions for all measurement scenarios from small cell networks in indoor environments to full macro cell measurements. Drive testing In order to expand and improve a network, operators need reliable data about network coverage and the subscriber quality of experience. To accurately collect coverage data, field measurements have to be made during a drive test or walk test using appropriate scanning receivers and test mobile phones. When combined with GPS positioning and mapping software, an accurate map of network coverage, network performance and faults can be created. During an online test drive, optimization software evaluates the data in realtime, allowing network settings to be changed and validated immediately, ensuring improvements in the efficiency and operation of a network. TSME ultracompact drive test scanner Ultracompact scanning receiver for all frequency bands from 350 MHz to 4.4GHz with integrated GPS Collection of data for measurement-based network planning and optimization Parallel measurements in GSM, WCDMA, LTE (FDD and TDD), CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, TD-SCDMA and WiMAX networks Parallel spectrum measurements Automatic channel detection for UMTS, LTE, CDMA and EV-DO for fast measurement setup Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 11

12 TSMA autonomous mobile network scanner Battery-powered, self-contained network scanner (no external PC required) LTE (FDD, TDD), WCDMA, GSM, CDMA, EV-DO, WiMax, TETRA, TD-SCDMA, PowerScan RF Built-in Windows PC with Intel i5 Automatic channel detection for UMTS, LTE, CDMA and EV-DO for fast measurement ROMES4 drive test software Universal software platform for RF planning, optimization, coverage verification, troubleshooting and interference detection Powerful map handling Data can be captured off-air in realtime using the TSMx band-unlimited scanning receivers Recording and visualization of test parameters; data is processed instantly and statistics are calculated in realtime. SwissQual Diversity Optimizer Smartphone-based quality of experience testing and optimization tool One software for all technologies Wide range of integrated QoS algorithms Verified and proven LTE speech testing SwissQual NetQual NQView Test configuration and control, live data display and file replay software Multipurpose for Diversity and QualiPoc products Predefined, customizable monitors Synchronized watchpoint in all monitors SwissQual NetQual NQDI reporting software Scalable data analysis and reporting software for optimization and benchmarking Unique speech and video quality analysis Powerful reporting and map plotting Full range of cellular technologies supported 12

13 Benchmarking For mobile operators, subscriber quality of experience (QoE) is one of the key factors driving revenues and reducing churn. Benchmarking your network performance against the competition is an effective way to really understand relative competitive performance to identify needed improvements and to trigger strategic investments. It is also an effective way of getting to know the competition and of gathering valuable information as a source for focused promotional campaigns. Regulatory authorities want to ensure that service KPIs are maintained among the services offered by the licensees. And network infrastructure vendors need to show their customers that newly introduced network features or newly developed hardware are improving the quality experienced by subscribers. SwissQual Benchmarker II Large-scale, fully functional drive test based quality of experience benchmarker Accurate, systematic measurements for trustworthy data, enabling strategic network investment decisions Complete set of cellular technologies supported Modular architecture and ruggedized design SwissQual Freerider III Extended walk and drive test based quality of experience benchmarking and optimization Smartphone-based portable solution for walk and drive tests Test voice, data, video, and messaging to assess quality of service (QoS) and quality of experience (QoE) from an end-user perspective Complete information about the physical RF environment Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 13

14 Network operation Once a network is operational, the task is to understand its performance in realtime, to run it efficiently and securely and to identify and rectify faults when they occur. To run a network efficiently and ensure subscriber quality of experience (QoE), it is necessary to monitor the level of service experienced by subscribers in the RAN and monitor IP traffic on the network to identify and rectify faults quickly and efficiently. This requires probes such as the SwissQual Remote Control to be placed in the RAN and probes such as those from ipoque in the core IP network. These probes collect data that feeds appropriate software which extracts meaningful information, enabling an operator to take the correct action to troubleshoot problems, generate additional revenue or run the network more efficiently. In the field, handheld test tools have special adaptations to characterize the RF performance of a base station, to identify faults such as component failures and enable them to rectified. Instruments such as the PR100 portable receiver can also quickly identify and geographically locate the source of interference in a network. 14

15 Traffic and subscriber analytics Obtaining actionable data by analyzing the IP network and subscriber traffic is an increasingly important area as operators realize that they can improve the QoS and develop additional revenue streams by understanding subscriber usage and behavior. IP classification software is able to provide realtime recognition of protocols and applications, including peer-to-peer traffic such as IP telephony, video streaming and tunnel protocols. The extracted data can be enriched with subscriberrelated attributes such as ARPU, device type and location. The granularity of data can be drilled down from highlevel showing entire network links to the individual subscriber level. MNOs can use subscriber usage analytics to market enhanced packages and monetize new services as well as plan capacity and gain visibility of subscriber QoS to preemptively mitigate churn. Application recognition technology can also be used to embed intelligence inside the network infrastructure. When the types of data transmitted are visible, a network can respond in a smart way to prioritize critical services, protect against threats and ensure delivery of content to subscribers. For example, IP classification is essential for security applications such as next-generation firewalls and for optimizing the delivery of content for specific services such as video. ipoque PACE IP classification software IP traffic application recognition software Pattern matching, behavioral, heuristic and statistical analysis in realtime Can be embedded to create an intelligent network infrastructure such as PCRF, firewalls, video optimizers etc. Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 15

16 Service quality monitoring Placing fixed or mobile probes such as the smartphonebased QualiPoc Remote Control in the RAN enables unattended network-wide non-stop service quality monitoring and optimization. Such probes can be remotely controlled. They deliver a continuous stream of realtime KPIs, providing insight into network quality as the customer perceives it. This enables simultaneous multiple applications in fixed locations such as street furniture or in moving locations, for example in a vehicle. QualiPoc Remote Control is an essential component to cost-effectively monitor service quality status in realtime from a real end-user perspective. QualiPoc Remote Control helps to reduce operational costs in the field and ultimately ensures seamless quality of service for subscribers. QualiPoc Remote Control radio access network probe Smartphone-based remotely controlled network measurement probe for unattended network-wide non-stop service quality monitoring and optimization Multi-application ready for desktop, wall, or in-car installation Realtime, 24/7 problem identification through targeted service monitoring, allowing immediate reaction before the end-user experience is substantially affected NetQual NQWeb Remote Control Web portal for data management, automation and monitoring Alarm scripting with SMS, and SNMP alarm system interface Automatic report generation for distribution 16

17 Interference hunting When interference occurs on network channel frequencies, the cause must immediately be identified and eliminated so that the required quality of service (QoS) can be restored. Radio interference can be caused by internal network sources or by external, unknown sources. Internal interference can result from faulty channel or code planning, e.g. an incorrect TCH reuse factor, or from defective base stations, antennas, RF cables, connectors, filters or duplexers. External interference sources can originate from a licensed or nonlicensed radio service. Radio receivers used for interference hunting can be traditional swept-tuned spectrum analyzers such as the FSH that can charaterize the radio environment over a band of interest or FFT receivers like the PR100 that instantaneously capture a block of spectrum and are far more adept at capturing pulsed or intermittent signals. The addition of GPS positioning, direction finding, embedded mapping and software to take account of multipath, create a powerful tool to combat interference. PR100 portable receiver Hunting and eliminating hard to detect interference (i.e. pulsed, hopping, unstable) 10 MHz realtime bandwidth Reliable detection of radio interference from 9 khz to 7.5 GHz Display of digital maps DDF007 portable direction finder Quick and easy radiolocation of interferers High-precision direction finding methods Turn a standard vehicle into a mobile DF within one minute Automatic PC-based radiolocation with Mobile Locator FSH handheld spectrum analyzer Rugged, lightweight solution to successfully detect, characterize and locate interference sources in the field Spectrogram recording /playback Map and tone-based direction finding Google Earth export of measured data Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 17

18 Challenges and solutions Mobile network operators face conflicting challenges in a competitive environment, trying to satisfy the demand for more capacity and services while meeting their financial objectives. Rohde & Schwarz and its subsidiaries SwissQual and ipoque offer test solutions for the complete network lifecycle that help our customers reconcile these objectives and ultimately deliver the required subscriber quality of service. Phase Planning Application Lab test of network infrastructure RAN capacity planning/field trial Spectral clearance/ refarming Core capacity planning ZVH cable and antenna tester FSH handheld spectrum analyzer PR100 portable receiver TSMW scanning receiver TSME ultracompact scanning receiver TSMA autonomous network scanner ROMES4 optimization software DDF007 portable direction finder SMW200A vector signal generator FSW signal and spectrum analyzer NRP-Z wideband power sensor NRT power reflection meter SwissQual Freerider III backpack SwissQual Qualipoc Android smartphone SwissQual Benchmarker II SwissQual Remote Control RAN probe SwissQual Diversity Optimizer SwissQual NQDI postprocessing software SwissQual NQView drive test software SwissQual NQWeb reporting software ipoque PACE IP classification software ipoque NetReporter IP traffic analytics 18

19 Challenges Rapid increase in wireless traffic High customer expectations of quality of experience (QoE) Need to deploy new technologies to increase capacity Security and monitoring becoming more critical Essential to meet financial objectives Solutions Choose the right infrastructure and UE vendors Deploy the network quickly and effectively RAN optimization to maximize efficiency Operate and maintain the network with deep knowledge of subscriber behavior The Rohde & Schwarz advantage Test solutions for the entire network lifecycle from a single vendor for commercial and technical efficiency Innovative cross-domain testing, integrated RF and IP competence Global 24 hour support network ensuring technical assistance wherever required Deployment Optimization Operation Base station installation RAN optimization/ drive test RAN benchmarking Base station maintenance Interference hunting Service level monitoring/ regulation IP traffic analytics Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz 19

20 Service that adds value Worldwide Local and personalized Customized and flexible Uncompromising quality Long-term dependability About SwissQual SwissQual a Rohde & Schwarz company is one of the largest independent suppliers of specialist equipment for wireless network service quality benchmarking and RF optimization. It is widely recognized as an expert contributor in the field of perceptual speech and video quality assessment. Based in Zuchwil, Switzerland, SwissQual serves more than 200 customers in over 100 countries worldwide. For more details visit About ipoque ipoque, a Rohde & Schwarz company, provides network traffic analytics solutions to enable operators to understand traffic patterns, monetize services and improve the quality of experience for their subscribers. The ipoque IP classification software enables network infrastructure vendors to develop products with intelligent bandwidth control, prioritized quality of service delivery and reliable network security. Over 200 customers in more than 60 countries across the globe rely on ipoque s solutions. About Rohde & Schwarz Rohde & Schwarz is a leading supplier of solutions in the fields of test and measurement, broadcast and media, secure communications, cybersecurity and radiomonitoring and radiolocation. Founded more than 80 years ago, this independent global company is present in more than 70 countries. Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG Mühldorfstraße München Regional contact Europe, Africa, Middle East customersupport@rohde-schwarz.com North America TEST RSA ( ) customer.support@rsa.rohde-schwarz.com Latin America customersupport.la@rohde-schwarz.com Asia Pacific customersupport.asia@rohde-schwarz.com China customersupport.china@rohde-schwarz.com is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG Trade names are trademarks of the owners PD Version February 2015 (nk) Mobile network testing solutions from Rohde & Schwarz Data without tolerance limits is not binding Subject to change 2015 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG Munich, Germany PDP 1 en