Performance measurements on LTE networks with the Rohde & Schwarz drive test solution
During field trials, in the roll-out phase and in full operation of a mobile communications network, a series of tests needs to be carried out to enable radio network analysis and optimization. Besides latency, state transition, throughput, cell capacity and cell load measurements, the achievable performance plays a major role for network operators. This is particularly important for LTE networks.
A majority of such measurements requires the establishment/simulation of a call connection. Rohde & Schwarz integrated the Samsung LTE USB modem into its drive test solution to enable network operators and infrastructure manufacturer to reliably test user plane and control plane latency, throughput, intra-LTE mobility performance and the quality-of-service features.
The LTE/SAE Trial Initiative (LSTI) demands several of these key performance indicators (KPI) to be measured and analyzed during field trials. LSTI is an industry alliance, initially formed by network operators, with the focus on interoperability testing for LTE. The Rohde & Schwarz drive test solution supports KPIs specified by LSTI.
The R&S®TSMW network scanner and the R&S®ROMES drive test software support all major cellular standards such as LTE, HSPA, GSM/EDGE, WiMAX™, 1xEV-DO and provide maximum flexibility.
