G-RF Tuning Guide-20081230-A-1.1

Product Name GSM RNP Product Version
Confidentiality INTERNAL Total 76 pages
1.1
Guide to GSM RF Tuning

(INTERNAL)
Prepared by Reviewed by Reviewed by Approved by
Wang Zhe
Date Date Date Date
2008-09-30
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL
Revision History
Date 2008-11-09 2008-12-30 Version 1.00 1.10 Description Revised according to the review comments. Several cross-references are modified. Reviewer Wang Yongchao and Tao Maodi Qin Yan Author Wang Zhe
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Contents
1 Overview .............................................................................................................................................. 9 2 RF Optimization ............................................................................................................................... 11
2.1 Procedure for RF Optimization ...................................................................................................................... 11 2.2 Strategy for RF Optimization ......................................................................................................................... 13
3 Preparations for RF Optimization ............................................................................................... 14

3.1 Objective of RF Optimization ........................................................................................................................ 14 3.2 Division of Clusters........................................................................................................................................ 15 3.2.1 Division Principles ................................................................................................................................ 15 3.2.2 Division Method ................................................................................................................................... 16 3.3 Preparing a Test Route ................................................................................................................................... 17 3.4 Preparations for the Engineering Parameter Table ......................................................................................... 18 3.5 Preparations for Tools and Documents ........................................................................................................... 19 3.5.1 Preparations for Software ...................................................................................................................... 19 3.5.2 Preparations for Hardware .................................................................................................................... 19 3.5.3 Preparations for Documents .................................................................................................................. 20 3.6 Parameter Check ............................................................................................................................................ 20
4 Data Collection ................................................................................................................................. 22

4.1 DT .................................................................................................................................................................. 22 4.1.1 Test Method ........................................................................................................................................... 22 4.1.2 Cooperation with the OMC Equipment Room ...................................................................................... 22 4.1.3 Feedback and Optimization of the DT Route ........................................................................................ 23 4.2 Collection of Traffic Statistics ........................................................................................................................ 23 4.3 Collection of Data Configuration ................................................................................................................... 24 4.4 Alarm Collection ............................................................................................................................................ 25 4.5 Subscriber Complaint ..................................................................................................................................... 25
5 RF Evaluation and Optimization ................................................................................................. 26

5.1 RF Evaluation................................................................................................................................................. 26 5.1.1 RF Environment .................................................................................................................................... 26 5.1.2 Event Statistics ...................................................................................................................................... 33 5.1.3 Problem Categorization ......................................................................................................................... 34 5.2 Analysis of Coverage Problems ..................................................................................................................... 35
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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL 5.2.1 Problem Categorization ......................................................................................................................... 35 5.2.2 Analysis and Handling .......................................................................................................................... 40 5.2.3 Cases of Coverage Problems ................................................................................................................. 49 5.3 Analysis of Quality Problems ......................................................................................................................... 51 5.3.1 Interference Categorization ................................................................................................................... 52 5.3.2 Cause Analysis ...................................................................................................................................... 53 5.3.3 Troubleshooting Methods...................................................................................................................... 55 5.3.4 Cases of Interference Problems ............................................................................................................. 57 5.4 Analysis of Handover Problems ..................................................................................................................... 60 5.4.1 Categorization ....................................................................................................................................... 61 5.4.2 Cause Analysis ...................................................................................................................................... 64 5.4.3 Optimization of Neighbor Relations ..................................................................................................... 67
6 RF Optimization and Adjustment ............................................................................................... 70 7 RF Optimization Verification ....................................................................................................... 72

7.1 Data Collection After RF Optimization .......................................................................................................... 72 7.2 Output of RF Optimization Report ................................................................................................................. 72
8 Conclusion ......................................................................................................................................... 73 9 Appendix ............................................................................................................................................ 74

9.1 Approaches to Tuning a Downtilt Angle ........................................................................................................ 74
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Figures
Figure 1-1 Position of RF optimization in network optimization .......................................................................... 9 Figure 2-1 Procedure for RF optimization........................................................................................................... 12 Figure 3-1 Method of cluster division ................................................................................................................. 16 Figure 3-2 Example of cluster division ............................................................................................................... 17 Figure 3-3 DT route ............................................................................................................................................. 18 Figure 4-1 Procedure for the RF DT ................................................................................................................... 23 Figure 5-1 Site distribution and test route ........................................................................................................... 27 Figure 5-2 Cell coverage map ............................................................................................................................. 27 Figure 5-3 Downlink RxLev coverage in cells .................................................................................................... 28 Figure 5-4 Downlink RxLev distribution in cells ................................................................................................ 28 Figure 5-5 Downlink RxQual coverage in cells .................................................................................................. 29 Figure 5-6 Downlink RxQual distribution in cells .............................................................................................. 30 Figure 5-7 Statistics for both RxLev and RxQual ............................................................................................... 30 Figure 5-8 Dual-trace display of RxLev and RxQual .......................................................................................... 31 Figure 5-9 Dual-trace display of RxLev and TA ................................................................................................. 31 Figure 5-10 TA distribution ................................................................................................................................. 32 Figure 5-11 DT summary (a template predefined in the Actix Analyzer)............................................................ 34 Figure 5-12 RF evaluation ................................................................................................................................... 34 Figure 5-13 Coverage hole displayed on the background analysis software ....................................................... 36 Figure 5-14 Coverage hole displayed on the foreground test software ............................................................... 36 Figure 5-15 Cross-area coverage ......................................................................................................................... 37 Figure 5-16 Coverage overlapping ...................................................................................................................... 38 Figure 5-17 Test result of an area without dominant coverage ............................................................................ 39 Figure 5-18 Uplink and downlink unbalancing (uplink fault) ............................................................................. 40 Figure 5-19 GSM link budget model (without TMA) ......................................................................................... 41 Figure 5-20 RxLev and activated cells (indicated by green sectors) ................................................................... 43
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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL Figure 5-21 TA distribution of all TRXs in a cell ................................................................................................ 45 Figure 5-22 Coverage by transmitter ................................................................................................................... 46 Figure 5-23 Relationship between the beam under the main lobe of the antenna and the ground plane ............. 47 Figure 5-24 Effect of the downtilt angle on the horizontal pattern ...................................................................... 48 Figure 5-25 Installation location of an directional antenna ................................................................................. 50 Figure 5-26 Frequency analysis through Nastar .................................................................................................. 56 Figure 5-27 Topology of BTS distribution and frequency planning .................................................................... 57 Figure 5-28 Topography and distribution of BTSs on the Google Earth ............................................................. 59 Figure 5-29 Distribution of TAs in sector 3 of a BTS ......................................................................................... 59 Figure 5-30 Handover failure event..................................................................................................................... 61 Figure 5-31 Continuous handover failure event .................................................................................................. 62 Figure 5-32 Principle of handover delay (level) .................................................................................................. 62 Figure 5-33 Handover delay (poor quality) ......................................................................................................... 63 Figure 5-34 Example of ping pong handover ...................................................................................................... 64 Figure 5-35 Analysis idea of poor radio handover .............................................................................................. 64 Figure 5-36 Handover signaling (Um) ................................................................................................................ 65 Figure 5-37 Checking for complete handover relations through Nastar .............................................................. 66 Figure 5-38 Neighbors Analysis menu of the Nastar ........................................................................................... 68 Figure 5-39 Neighbor display through Nastar ..................................................................................................... 69
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Tables
Table 3-1 Objective of RF optimization .............................................................................................................. 14 Table 3-2 Preparations for software in the RF optimization ................................................................................ 19 Table 3-3 Preparations for hardware in the RF optimization ............................................................................... 19 Table 3-4 Documents to be collected before the RF optimization ....................................................................... 20 Table 4-1 Traffic statistics tasks involved in the RF optimization ....................................................................... 23 Table 5-1 Statistics for the RF performance in cells ............................................................................................ 32 Table 5-2 Downlink receive level in scenarios .................................................................................................... 42 Table 5-3 Relationship between RxQual and BER .............................................................................................. 51 Table 5-4 Traffic statistics for receive level ......................................................................................................... 52 Table 5-5 Relationship between interference bands and levels (default parameter configuration)...................... 53
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Guide to GSM RF Optimization

Keywords GSM, Radio Network Planning, Radio Network Optimization, RF optimization, DT, DT analysis, traffic statistics analysis, engineering parameter table, coverage, interfere nce, handover, neighbor cell, emulation, link budget, and uplink and downlink balancing. Abstract This document describes the RF optimization in a GSM network. It covers the purpose, process, procedure, input and output of the RF optimization, and precautions for the RF optimization. Acronyms and Abbreviations Acronyms and Abbreviations RF DT KPI OMC MS CSSR CDR HSR CR Full Spelling Radio Frequency Drive Test Key Performance Indicator Operation and Maintenance Center Mobile Station Call Setup Success Rate Call Drop Rate Handover Success Rate Change Request
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Overview
By optimizing RF signals, RF optimization is intended to guarantee good receive quality while optimizing the network coverage. In addition, a correct adjacency shall be provided to ensure the normal distribution of radio signals in subsequent service optimization procedures and lay a sound foundation for later optimization. The RF optimization must be performed throughout a network optimization process, such as cluster optimization in the initial tuning phase, the network performance improvement (NPI) phase, and the ongoing phase, as shown in Figure 1-1. The RF optimization, however, functions differently in different phases: In the initial tuning phase of network construction, RF optimization plays a leading role. Such optimization focuses on network engineering but sidelines network performance. In the NPI phase and the ongoing phase, the focus of network optimization shifts to services, while RF optimization plays a second role. Figure 1-1 Position of RF optimization in network optimization
Single-site verification phase Initial tuning phase
Cluster optimization phase
NPI phase
Ongoing phase
The RF optimization in a GSM network generally involves the following aspects:
Coverage: The optimization of radio signal coverage is directed toward poor coverage (coverage hole), cross-area coverage, uplink and downlink unbalancing, and cell without dominant coverage. The optimization of poor coverage is to ensure the continuous network coverage. The optimization of cross-area coverage is to keep actual coverage in line with the plan to eliminate call drops caused by communication islands. The optimization of uplink and downlink unbalancing is to balance different uplink and downlink coverage between the uplink loss and the downlink loss. The optimization of a cell without dominant coverage is to generate a dominant coverage area for each cell in a network to prevent frequent reselection or handover due to radio signal fluctuations. Quality: Network quality is closely related to the coverage. A low network coverage causes poor receive quality. In this case, poor coverage is generally optimized to solve this problem. Given ideal network coverage, interference may cause poor receive quality.
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The coverage is optimized on the uplink and the downlink separately to eliminate interference from high level but low quality signals.
Handover: The handover optimization is to optimize neighbor cells (optimizing the BA1 table and the BA2 table) to ensure that optimal cells can be reselected or handed over for all subscribers in idle or calling state. In this way, continuous network coverage is guaranteed. In addition, handover reasonability must also be optimized. Such optimization covers delay handover, ping pong handover, and non-logical handover. All these problems can be solved through the optimization of coverage, interference, and handover parameters.
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2
2.1 Procedure for RF Optimization
RF Optimization
In the initial tuning phase, the RF optimization is performed cluster by cluster. If the sites built in a cluster account for over 85% of the total number, the area is ready for RF optimization (for other conditions, see Chapter 3 "Preparations for RF Optimization"). In the NPI phase and the ongoing phase, the RF optimization only needs to be performed cluster by cluster. As shown in Figure 2-1, the RF optimization includes preparations, data collection, problem analysis, and tuning implementation. Data collection, problem analysis, and tuning implementation must be repeated according to the optimization target and the actual optimization until the target key performance indicators (KPIs) are achieved. The details are described as follows:
In the preparations phase, you need to perform the following tasks:
Identify target KPIs according to the contract, reasonably divide clusters, and determine the test route together with the carrier, especially the test and acceptance route of KPIs. Prepare the tools and documents required for RF optimization to ensure the success of RF optimization. Check the parameters to resolve network quality problems caused by parameter inconsistency and focus optimization on the RF layer.
In the data collection phase, you need to obtain the following information such as DT data, traffic statistics, traced signaling messages, subscriber complaints, and hardware alarms to prepare for the subsequent problem analysis in combination with the data configuration at the BSS. In the problem analysis phase, you need to find the problems in the network through the data analysis, focusing on the problems associated with coverage, interference, and handover, and then propose the tuning measures. After the tuning is complete, you need to collect the test data. If the test result does not comply with the target KPIs, you need to re-analyze the problems for tuning until all the KPIs are compliant.
The problems resulting from signal coverage, frequency interference, and missing of neighbor cells, such as downlink interference, access, and call drop, are generally related to a geographical location and can be moderately solved with further optimization. In a good coverage environment without frequency interference and missing of neighbor cells, the problems such as access and call drop must be solved in the parameter optimization phase (for
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details, refer to the related guide). The solution to the problem with uplink interference generally takes a long time, even extended to the optimization completion. For the detailed solution, refer to the G-Guide to Interference Analysis. After the RF optimization is complete, you need to output the updated engineering parameter table and the cell parameter table. The engineering parameter table indicates the tuning of the engineering parameters (such as the down tilt and the azimuth angle) in the RF optimization; while the cell parameter table indicates the tuning of the cell parameters (for example, configuration of neighbor cells) in the RF optimization. Figure 2-1 Procedure for RF optimization
RF Optimization Preparation
System Parameters Audit
Drive Test & Data Analysis
Hardware/Top 10 Troubleshooting
Customer Complain
RF Analysis Fill up RNP Problem Tracker Tuning Proposal
Issue Change Request to customer and Implementation team(CR)
Customer Approved? Y Tuning Implementation
N Feedback Change Request from Implementation or hardware troubleshooting team
Verification
N Problem Solved? Y N Satisfied all KPIs? Y Final Initial Tuning Report Update CR and Problem Tracker
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2.2 Strategy for RF Optimization

The emphases of the RF optimizationt are different in different phases of the radio network. In a network that is being built or replaced, you need to check whether the problem with RF is caused by the hardware defect or the engineering quality, such as insufficient transmit power and wrong connection of antenna feeders. In a developing network, you need to pay more attention to the entire network structure. In addition, you also need to give reasonable suggestions for new coverage requirements by the customer and implement the suggestions to ensure appropriate distribution of radio signals and good and stable voice quality. Therefore, different strategies shall be provided in the phases of the RF optimization. Generally, the RF optimization involves the following contents:
Optimization of main routes: When the network quality is poor, you first need to optimize the SVIP and VIP areas and road sections. The route optimization is to select a dominant-covering cell around a road section and tune the coverage of the cell, and then optimize the handover between the cells with dominant coverage in the route. Tuning of the entire network: You first need to ensure the accurate basic information before the RF optimization in the entire network to improve the whole network quality. The RF optimization includes the solution to the problems such as coverage, poor coverage, and cell without dominant coverage. In addition, you also need to pay special attention to the strong leakage by the side lobes and the back lobes of an antenna feeder and the leakage by indoor signals. Fine cluster optimization: After the network quality reaches a good level, you can, based on the centrality of network problems, divide the defective sites into different clusters for special RF optimization according to the geographical location. In this way, you can improve the carrier-to-interference ratio (C/I) of clusters by the means, for example, reasonable coverage, to ensure the further improvement of the network quality.
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Preparations for RF Optimization
3.1 Objective of RF Optimization

The emphasis of the RF optimization is to solve the problems associated with network coverage and quality. In practice, carriers have different KPI requirements, index definitions, and concerns; so the objective of the RF optimization is to meet the requirements for the indexes related to the coverage and quality in a contract (commercial office) or in a planning report (pilot office). The indexes shall be defined according to the requirements in the contract. An index is defined in the following form: The proportion of the sample of an index (for example, RxLev) greater than a reference value to all the samples is greater than a percentage. Table 3-1 lists the common acceptance contents in the RF optimization. The reference indexes are only used to guide a network optimization engineer to identify the objective of the RF optimization and are not applicable to the bidding of a project. In practice, the number of indexes and the values depend on a contract. Table 3-1 Objective of RF optimization Acceptance Contents Coverage Rate Reference Value 95% of Rx_Level in all the samples -95 dBm Remarks

This is one of the most important KPIs in the DT. The index is used to evaluate RxLev_Sub in the call state through Long Call (MS calls a fixed-line phone). This is one of the most important KPIs in the DT. The index is used to evaluate RxQual_Sub in the call state through Long Call (MS calls a fixed-line phone). This is one of the KPIs to evaluate the DT Event. CSSR(%) = assignment complete times/Channel Request times x 100% The index is used to evaluate a call setup event through Short Call (MS1 calls a fixed-line phone).
Receive quality
95% of Rx_Quality in all the samples 4 CSSR 96%
Call setup success rate
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Acceptance Contents Call drop rate
Reference Value CDR < 2%
Remarks

This is one of the KPIs to evaluate the DT Event. CDR(%) = call drop times/successful call times * 100% The index is used to evaluate a call drop event through Short Call (MS1 calls a fixed phone or MS2). This is one of the KPIs to evaluate the DT Event. HSR(%) = successful handover times/handover command times * 100% The index is used to evaluate the handover performance through Long Call (MS calls a fixed-line phone).
Handover success rate
HSR 96%
The statistics purpose of the event KPIs (CSSR, HSR, and CDR) is to find and solve the RF problem associated with the air interface. The problems resulting from non RF reasons such as access, call, or call drop, however, are solved through the performance optimization. The call setup success rate differs from the call completion rate: The call completion rate is end-to-end, including the call setup procedure of an outgoing call, the call setup procedure of an incoming call, and the signaling interaction at the network side; while the call setup success rate involves only the signaling flow from Channel Request to Assignment Complete by the called MS. The call setup process may initiate on the BCCH or on the TCH. It is difficult to evaluate the C/I of a channel in the call state due to some reasons, for example, the DTX is enabled in the network. Therefore, the C/I does not act as an optimization objective, and you only need to pay attention to the C/I in the analysis.
3.2 Division of Clusters

3.2.1 Division Principles
The RF optimization and verification are performed by clusters. The clusters shall be divided based on the following principles:

The division principles and result of clusters are negotiated and confirmed with the customer. A cluster generally covers 10 to 30 sites. More or less sites are not recommended. The clusters can be divided into different types (for example, urban or remote) according to the coverage areas by sites; The KPI requirements for different clusters are different. Effect of the terrain to be considered in the cluster division: The terrain can affect the propagation of signals.

A mountain can block the propagation of signals and is a natural border in the cluster division. A river can cause radio signals to be propagated further and greatly affect the cluster division: If the river is narrow, you need to consider the mutual effect of the signals on both sides of the river and divide the sites on both sides of the river into the same
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cluster if the transportation is available. If the river is wide, you need to pay attention to the mutual effect of the signals between the upstream and the downstream of the river and divide the clusters with the river course as a border if the transportation is unavailable on both sides.
Division of administrative regions: If a coverage area to be optimized belongs to multiple administrative regions, it is acceptable for the customer to divide clusters according to different administrative regions. Effect of the DT workload: When dividing clusters, you need to consider that the DT in each cluster shall be completed in one day. About two to four hours are generally recommended for one DT.
3.2.2 Division Method

The clusters shall be divided based on the principles determined by the customer. Figure 3-1 shows the method of cluster division: You need to divide all the sites (including the planning sites) in this project into urban sites and remote sites, and then divide urban sites or remote sites in a region into multiple clusters in units of 10 to 30 sites. Figure 3-1 Method of cluster division
U_Cluster_Name1
Total sites in this project
U_Cluster_Name2
Urban sites
U_Cluster_NameN
...
Commercially used sites
Site categorization
R_Cluster_Name1
Remote sites Planning sites

R_Cluster_Name2
R_Cluster_NameN
In the rollout phase, the team responsible for cluster optimization maintains and updates the on air progress of each cluster. Once the number of commercially-used sites in a cluster is over 85% of the total number, the RF optimization can be performed for the cluster. Figure 3-2 shows the division of clusters in a project. JB03 and JB04 are in a dense urban area, JB01 in an area with expressway coverage, JB02, JB05, JB06, and JB07 in an urban area, and JB08 in a suburban area. Each cluster contains 18 to 22 BTSs.
...
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Figure 3-2 Example of cluster division
3.3 Preparing a Test Route

Before the DT, you first need to confirm the DT route of KPIs with the customer. If the customer has a predefined DT route, the DT route of KPIs shall cover the predefined DT route. If the predefined DT route is not covered due to some objective factors, for example, network layout, you need to describe this case in time. A test route shall be selected as much as possible based on the following principles:
The test route covers all the scenarios (such as viaducts, tunnels, expressways, and streets in a dense urban area) in this test area. In addition, you also need to ensure that a two-way road can be tested back and forth to cover all the scenarios. The test route shall cover all the cells as much as possible to ensure the optimization effect. When determining the test route, you need to consider the actual conditions such as a one-way road and the limit to a left-hand bend. After communicating with a local driver or determining the feasibility of the test route by car, you can determine the test route through communication with the customer. The test route in an RF optimization report needs to be confirmed by the customer.
Figure 3-3 shows a test path made by the Mapinfo tool. The making method is as follows: Create a layer on the digital map to mark the start and the stop of the test. The broken line with arrowheads indicates the test route and the test process. Note: The test route shown in Figure 3-3 is only an example. In practice, a two-way route shall be considered for clusters in the RF optimization.
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Figure 3-3 DT route
3.4 Preparations for the Engineering Parameter Table

The engineering parameter table is important in the input and output of the RF optimization, and its information determines the modification suggestions for the RF optimization. The information in the engineering parameter table is classified into two contents: hardware installation parameters and system configuration parameters. The hardware installation parameters form one-to-one relationship with the system configuration parameters by the cell name.
The hardware installation parameters include site name, cell name, site location, antenna height, down tilt, azimuth angle, TMA, antenna type, antenna gain, and electrical down tilt. The system configuration parameters include CGI (MCC+MNC+LAC+RAC+CI), BCCH, BSIC, frequency hopping mode, TCH, MAL, MAIO, HSN, and number of TRXs.
To create an engineering parameter table, you need to ensure both accurate hardware installation parameters and accurate system configuration parameters. Generally, it is practicable to ensure accurate system configuration parameters. You can use the Nastar software to correct the engineering parameters. It is impossible, however, to ensure accurate hardware installation parameters, especially the azimuth angle and the down tilt, and even the longitude and the latitude of a site. Therefore, when finding a great difference between the
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actual coverage and the planned coverage, you need to audit the actual installation of an antenna feeder to solve the problem.
3.5 Preparations for Tools and Documents

Before the RF optimization, you need to prepare for necessary software (see Table 3-2), hardware (see Table 3-3), and documents (see Table 3-4) to ensure the subsequent test and analysis. The preparations are described as follows:
3.5.1 Preparations for Software

Table 3-2 Preparations for software in the RF optimization Software Genex Probe Genex Assistant Function Collect the DT data. Analyze the DT data on the background. Analyze the performance, check the health, and locate the problems. Forecast the tuning effect. Display the map and create the route data. Optional. Remarks Other software such as TEMS and NEMO can also be used. Other background software such as Actix Spotlight, Analyzer, and Nemo Analyzer can also be used.
Genex Nastar
Genex U-net Mapinfo
3.5.2 Preparations for Hardware

Table 3-3 Preparations for hardware in the RF optimization Hardware Test terminal Item Compliant with test software. Remarks At least two test terminals are required: One tests the data in the idle state, and the other tests the data in the call state. If the PS service is required for simultaneous test, at least three test terminals should be available for use.
Notebook computer Other DT equipment
Used for installation of the foreground test software. GPS, data cable, antenna, and dongle.
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Hardware Vehicle mounted inverter
Item DC to AC, over 300 W.
Remarks
3.5.3 Preparations for Documents

Table 3-4 Documents to be collected before the RF optimization Document Engineering parameter table Digital map KPI requirements Network configuration parameters Site survey report Verification report of a single site Test route Mandatory Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes The test route is used to guide the test of clusters. Remarks The table is a most key factor to ensure the RF optimization. The digital map is used to create a test route and guide the RF optimization.
3.6 Parameter Check

Before the DT, you need to check the OMC data configuration parameters of the sites in the area to be tested to solve the problem with the network quality caused by the erroneous data configuration and focus the works on the RF optimization layer. You can check the parameters flexibly: For example, you can import the configuration parameters through the NASTAR software and then compare them with the planned data; or you can export the configuration parameters from the LMT or the MML and check them through the Excel software; even you can query for the parameters in the GUI of the LMT for check. Presently, no check tool for configuration parameters is recommended in a GSM network. Before configuring the parameters, you first need to obtain the data configuration file at the BSC of a BTS. For the detailed obtainment method, refer to section 3.1.5 Backup Data Configuration (autocfg.dat) (for BSC32), or section 4.1.4 "B ackup lmt.dat to Local PC (for BSC6000), or section 5.3.2 "Collecting PCU Information (for an external PCU) in the G-OMC Operation Guide. Note: If the cell to be checked covers PS services and an external PCU is used, you need to obtain the configuration file through the PCU Toolkit.
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Before testing a site, you need to collect the planned configuration data and check whether the actual configuration data is the same as the planned configuration data. The following check items are used for reference in parameter check.

Check whether the basic parameters (such as CGI, BCCH, and BSIC) are configured according to the planned parameters. Check whether the frequency planning parameters (such as BCCH, BSIC, TCH, hopping, MAL, MAIO, and HSN) are configured according to the planned parameters. Check whether the data associated with neighbor cells is configured according to the planned parameters. You need to check whether the configuration data in an external neighbor cell (such as CGI, BCCH, and BSIC) is the same as those in a running cell. Before the RF optimization, you especially need to check the configuration data in an external neighbor cell. Otherwise, the cells in different BSCs cannot be handed over if the data in the external neighbor cell is not identical with the data in the running cell. In this case, the handover success rate is lower than the radio handover success rate in traffic statistics, and the cells outside the BSC cannot be handed over in the DT. Check whether the channels on each TRX are configured according to the planned data, including the TRXs of SDCCH, PDCH, and TCH and the number of the TRXs. Check the network optimization parameters. The network optimization parameters control network features, and a parameter template is provided in each project. The network optimization parameters differ in each project, but you usually need to check all the cell parameters, TRX parameters, channel parameters, and PCU parameters. For the details on these parameters, refer to the template for network optimization parameters in each project.
If finding inconsistent parameter configurations in parameter check, you need to submit a CR report and feed the report back to the OMC equipment room for modification to ensure that the parameter check is complete before the test.
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4
4.1 DT
4.1.1 Test Method

Data Collection
The DT in the RF optimization is to optimize RF signals; so the services to be tested are relatively simple. The DT test generally covers the following task combinations: Idle test (DT) + CS Voice Call short call (DT) + CS Voice Call long call (DT) Idle test (DT) + CS Voice Call long call (DT) Idle test (DT) + CS Voice Call short call (DT)
Note:
Idle test is used to analyze downlink coverage and RxLev distribution on the BCCH without downlink power control, analyze whether there is any coverage hole and inverse antenna transmission, and analyze the usage of the TCH against that in the call state. CS Voice Call short call is used to evaluate the access performance in a network and the downlink RxQual_Sub in the RF optimization. CS Voice Call long call is used to evaluate the performance of handover and call drop in a network, the downlink RxQual_Sub in the RF optimization, and the RxLev distribution with downlink power control.
Therefore, at the initial DT, you need to use the preceding combinations as much as possible for RF test to provide more useful data for RF analysis and optimization.
4.1.2 Cooperation with the OMC Equipment Room

The DT in the RF optimization can only be used to obtain the formation about downlink signals. In addition, the cooperation with the OMC equipment room is required to comprehensively analyze the information about a network, for example, you can obtain an uplink test report (uplink RxLev and RxQual) on the air interface of an MS to be tested in the single-user signaling tracing mode at the BSC. For details on the tracing of a single user at the BSC, see "BSC User Tracing" in the G-OMC Operation Guide.
The uplink signal and quality can provide a comprehensive basis for RF troubleshooting. When an exception (such as handover failure and call drop) occurs in the DT process, and the downlink level and quality are good, the uplink data can serve as the effective judgment and optimization suggestions.
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4.1.3 Feedback and Optimization of the DT Route

Figure 4-1 Procedure for the RF DT
Drive Route Definition
Initial DT
Feedback on Drive Route
Post DT on optimized drive route &cluster border if required
RF Optimization Benchmark Report
Drive Route Analysis
As shown in Figure 4-1, after the initial DT is complete, the tester shall feed the information about the DT back to the person in charge of the RF optimization. The information includes the following:

The time taken for the DT route. The problematic road sections such as one-way street and difficult road sections.
The preceding information is used to further optimize the DT route to implement the advantages such as lowering the test difficulty in the next test, reducing the test cost, and alleviating the overlapping with other clusters. In the analysis phase of the initial DT, if finding that the predefined DT route is not covered due to some objective factors, for example, network layout, the network optimization analyzer can revise the DT route. The optimized DT route may differ from the initial DT route; so the tester needs to check whether the DT route is revised before the DT.
4.2 Collection of Traffic Statistics

In the RF optimization, it is a good supplement for the DT analysis to obtain the traffic statistics of the sites. In the RF optimization, you need to obtain the traffic statistics of all the cells in a cluster in the previous week and on the day of the DT. Table 4-1 lists the traffic statistics tasks involved in the RF optimization. Table 4-1 Traffic statistics tasks involved in the RF optimization Traffic Statistics Task KPI Measurement per Cell Remarks In the call measurement (CALL), this task is used to fast evaluate the KPIs of each cell in a cluster. Outgoing Internal Inter-Cell Handover Measurement per Cell Outgoing External Inter-Cell Handover Measurement per Cell Incoming Internal Inter-Cell Handover Measurement per Cell In the call measurement (CALL), this task is used to analyze cell handover, for example, analyzing the difference between the radio handover success rate and the handover success rate, and analyzing the handover type of each cell.
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Traffic Statistics Task Incoming External Inter-Cell Handover Measurement per Cell GSM Cell to GSM Cell Outgoing Handover Measurement GSM Cell to GSM Cell Incoming Handover Measurement Call Drop Measurement per Cell
Remarks
In the call measurement (CALL), this task is used to analyze the performance of cell-to-cell handover and serves as a guide for handover troubleshooting. In the call measurement (CALL), this task is used to analyze the call drop.
Channel Seizure Measurement per TRX
In the call measurement (CALL), this task is used to analyze the channel seizure success rate to find a problematic carrier frequency.
Channel Configuration Measurement per Cell
In the channel measurement (CHAN), this task is used to analyze the blocking and fault of a TRX. In the channel measurement (CHAN), this task is used to analyze the congestion on a TCH. In the measurement report measurement (MR), this task is used to comprehensively evaluate the uplink and downlink receive quality and interference. The TA measurement is used to evaluate the cross-area coverage by cells.
Channel Assignment Failure Measurement per Cell
Uplink-and-Downlink Balance Measurement per TRX Number of MRs based on TA per TRX Interference band measurement per TRX Receive Quality Measurement per TRX TCHF Receive Level Measurement per TRX TCHH Receive Level Measurement TRX per
4.3 Collection of Data Configuration

The OMC equipment room is responsible for collecting the latest data configuration file at the BSC of the cell in the cluster to be tested and sending it to the engineer responsible for parameter check. For the collection details, refer to section 3.1.5 "Backup Data Configuration (autocfg.dat)" (for BSC32), or section 4.1.4 "Backup lmt.dat to Local PC" (for BSC6000), or section 5.3.2 "Collecting PCU Information" (for an external PCU) in the G-OMC Operation Guide.
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The cluster optimization generally involves the optimization and check of an external neighbor cell; so you need to obtain the data configuration file at the BSC of the external neighbor cell.
4.4 Alarm Collection

The OMC equipment room is responsible for collecting the current alarms and history alarms (in the past week) of all the cells in the cluster to be tested and sending them to the analyzer responsible for the RF optimization. For the details on alarm collection, refer to section 2.4 "Managing Alarms" in the G-OMC Operation Guide.
4.5 Subscriber Complaint

You need to collect subscriber complaints, especially complaints by VIP subscribers and the subscribers in a VIP area. If the DT does not cover the complaints, the CQT shall be performed to make test calls and locate the problems on the spot. For details on the preparations for the CQT and the test methods, refer to the related sections in the GSM-DT&CQT Test Guide.
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5
5.1 RF Evaluation
RF Evaluation and Optimization
The procedure for the RF optimization is the same as that for other optimization, that is, evaluate a problem, and then analyze the problem, finally solve the problem.
Evaluate
Analyze
Solve
It seems simple but difficult to evaluate top N problems in an area from a DT log file. This is because the DT does not reflect the comprehensive performance of clusters, cells and TRXs as the traffic statistics does, and the DT only reflects more exterior factors to engineers. Therefore, a comprehensive and objective evaluation method shall be provided to analyze the log file before the analysis of RF problems. Before analyzing RF problems, you need to create a snapshot of the network performance in the tested area, and then record the problems for categorization and analysis. When analyzing RF problems, you usually need to evaluate a DT log file in the following two aspects: RF environment and exceptional events. The two aspects are associated with each other; so you need to comprehensively consider them in the evaluation. The following sections detail the RF environment and the exceptional events.
5.1.1 RF Environment
1. Network Structure (Site Distribution and Test Route)
As shown in Figure 5-1, the site distribution and the test route displayed on the map can help create a comprehensive concept of the test.
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Figure 5-1 Site distribution and test route
2. Cell Coverage Map

As shown in Figure 5-2, the cell coverage map describes the cell ID of serving cells. Through the cell coverage map, you can know the actual coverage of each cell and judge inverse feeder connections on the downlink or overlapping areas. Figure 5-2 Cell coverage map
3. Statistics for Receive Level

As shown in Figure 5-3, the special map describes RxLev Idle (idle state) and RxLev_Sub (call state) in serving cells. Through the map, you can evaluate the downlink coverage in the tested area to find an area with poor coverage. The red areas 1, 2, and 3 are near the sites, but there exist areas with poor coverage. Thus, you need to locate and solve the problems accordingly. The area 4 does not contain a cell with dominant coverage, and you need to further confirm whether the tuning solution for enhanced coverage is available.
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Figure 5-3 Downlink RxLev coverage in cells
Figure 5-4 shows the distribution statistics for RxLev Idle (idle state) or RxLev_Sub (dedicated state) in serving cells. The statistics result can help create a comprehensive concept of the downlink receive level for comparison analysis in the optimization. Figure 5-4 Downlink RxLev distribution in cells
RxLevSub Distribution
60 50 40 30 20 10 0 -110 -106 -102 -98 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% -94 -90 -86 -82 -78 -74 -70 -66 -62 -58 -54 -50 -46 -42
dBm
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4. Statistics for Receive Quality

As shown in Figure 5-5, the special map describes RxQual in the dedicated state in serving cells. Through the map, you can evaluate the downlink quality in the tested area to find the road sections with poor voice quality and associate the events with the voice quality. A call drop event occurs after the downlink voice quality becomes poorer for a period of time. In this case, you need to further analyze the road section. Figure 5-5 Downlink RxQual coverage in cells
Figure 5-6 shows the distribution statistics for RxQual_sub in serving cells. The statistics result can help create a comprehensive concept of the downlink RxQual for comparison analysis in the optimization.
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Figure 5-6 Downlink RxQual distribution in cells
RxQualSub Distribution
600 500 400 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 300 200 100 0 0 1 2 3 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 4 5 6 7
RxQual
5. Statistics for both RxLev and RxQual

The statistics for both the receive level and the receive quality involve the following four scenarios in the RF optimization:

Good RxQual & Good RxLev Good RxQual & Poor RxLev Poor RxQual & Good RxLev Poor RxLev & Poor Quality
The statistics is used to get an overview of the main problems in a network. As shown in Figure 5-7, the poor coverage causes the poor quality in the area. Therefore, you need to pay more attention to the poor coverage. Figure 5-7 Statistics for both RxLev and RxQual
To further determine the distribution of the RF problems in the area, you need to use the dual-trace method to display both RxLev and RxQual. As shown in Figure 5-8, the problem priority is highest in area 1, and then area 2 and area 3.
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Figure 5-8 Dual-trace display of RxLev and RxQual
6. TA Statistics
As shown in Figure 5-9, the map displays the distribution of both TA and RxLev to further determine the relationship between the receive level and the coverage distance. Figure 5-9 Dual-trace display of RxLev and TA
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Figure 5-10 shows the distribution statistics for TA in serving cells. The statistics result helps create a comprehensive concept of the downlink coverage distance and judge the cross-area coverage in the coverage area. Figure 5-10 TA distribution
TA Distribution
400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 0 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48 51 54 57 60 63 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%
TA
7. Statistics for RF Performance in Cells

The preceding analysis is focused on clusters or areas. The cells, however, are specific to the final tuning suggestions and result in the RF optimization. Therefore, it is necessary to generate the RF statistics for all the cells in the tested area. Table 5-1 shows the association between clusters or areas and cells to help focus RF problems on cells, especially the cells with abnormal values. Table 5-1 Statistics for the RF performance in cells ServCI Samples RxLev_ RxLev_ RxLev_ RxQual RxQual RxQual TA_Avg TA_Max _Max 7 7 6 5 5 7 7 5 7 6 _Min 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 5 0 24 12 2 3 29 16 12 10 10 1 32 16 2 10 33 63 15 63 16 6
Call_Avg Call_Max Call_Min _Avg 2201 3442 5959 5961 9297 11667 12078 13777 16967 18144 858 326 621 1534 164 719 182 274 58 833 -85 -88 -79 -75 -90 -85 -92 -85 -95 -71 -70 -78 -56 -57 -84 -71 -87 -74 -93 -47 -101 -95 -92 -91 -97 -96 -95 -97 -97 -95 1 1 2 0 1 4 7 1 7 1
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ServCI Samples RxLev_
RxLev_
RxLev_
RxQual RxQual RxQual TA_Avg TA_Max _Max 4 3 _Min 0 0 1 6 2 15
Call_Avg Call_Max Call_Min _Avg 18145 40002 181 410 -74 -89 -69 -81 -79 -94 0 1
The Analysis Manager in the Actix Analyzer provides multiple customized query functions. You can use the Cross Query function to take statistics for the parameters such as RxLev, RxQual, and TA in cells, as shown in Table 5-1. In practice, the statistics for the parameters in cells can improve the analysis efficiency of RF problems. Generally, the analysis software provides multiple analysis templates and allows you to customize data query functions based on your experience.
5.1.2 Event Statistics

You can take statistics for events in the DT. The events include the following contents:

Call Setup OK Call Setup Failure Call Complete Call Dropped Handover OK Handover Failure Location Update OK Location Update Failure
As shown in Figure 5-11, the events help analyze problematic cells.
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Figure 5-11 DT summary (a template predefined in the Actix Analyzer)
5.1.3 Problem Categorization

As shown in Figure 5-12, you can analyze RF problems related to areas, cells, and events, find their association, and then output the list of RF problems. Generally, all the RF problems can be categorized into three types: coverage, interference, and handover. Figure 5-12 RF evaluation
Region RF problems Cell problems Events
List of RF problems Coverage Interference Handover ...
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The purpose of the RF optimization is to identify the Most significant problems with the clusters to be optimized according to the list of problems and solve them in the subsequent analysis phase. The preceding evaluation and analysis are performed based on the air interface information and events recorded in the DT. The DT data, however, records only downlink radio conditions; so it is insufficient for the RF optimization based on the DT data. To analyze the RF problems accurately and intensively, you need to combine KPIs, parameter configuration (especially frequency planning and neighbor cell configuration), uplink signaling tracing of a single subscriber, and alarm information, which are described in the following analysis.
5.2 Analysis of Coverage Problems

The solution to coverage problems plays an important role in the RF optimization. The coverage involves downlink coverage and uplink coverage.
5.2.1 Problem Categorization

GSM is a frequency reuse system, and the coverage is controlled according to the result of network planning. It is favorable that the proper coverage is provided in a GSM network, that is, neither too much overshooting nor too much poor coverage exists in areas. Seen from poor coverage and overshooting, the coverage problems are categorized into five types: coverage hole, cross-area coverage, uplink and downlink unbalancing, coverage overlapping, and lack of dominant coverage.
1. Coverage Hole
A coverage hole is a poor coverage area where the radio network coverage is unreachable or the coverage level is too low. In the poor coverage area, the unstable downlink receive level causes the RxLev of an MS to be less than the minimum access level (RXLEV_ACCESS_MIN) and drop from the network. Generally, the probability of co-channel interference rises in the area. After entering a poor coverage area, an MS in the dedicated state cannot be handed over to a higher-level cell. In this case, the subscriber feels a drop of the vocie quality and even the call drop occurs due to the low level and quality. Figure 5-13 shows a typical example of a coverage hole in the red area, with the downlink receive level lower than -100 dBm.
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Figure 5-13 Coverage hole displayed on the background analysis software
Figure 5-14 shows a more visual coverage hole on the foreground test software. The receive levels of the serving cell and the neighbor cells are too low to meet the handover conditions. In this case, the call drop occurs due to the low level and quality. Figure 5-14 Coverage hole displayed on the foreground test software
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2. Cross-area coverage
The cross-area coverage occurs when the coverage of a BTS exceeds the planned areas and discontinuous dominant areas are formed in the coverage areas of other BTSs. As shown in Figure 5-15, the coverage of the serving cell greatly exceeds the planned areas and the dominant coverage is formed in the coverage areas of the cell B. In this case, an island effect occurs. If a call is accessed to the island area served by the BTS, and the adjacency is not configured between the serving cell and the cells around the island, the MS incurs the call drop when leaving the island. If the adjacency is configured, a too small island area also causes the call drop because the handover is not performed in time. The cross-area coverage extends the network interference and brings a negative perception to subscribers; so the problem should be first solved in the optimization. Figure 5-15 Cross-area coverage
3. Coverage Overlapping
A coverage overlapping area refers to an area where the signals from cells are much overlapped and a difference of 5 dB exists between the downlink signals of the cells. In this case, the frequent handover and reselection of cells reduce the system efficiency, add the probability of the call drop, and affect the perception of subscribers.
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Figure 5-16 Coverage overlapping
4. Lack of Dominant Coverage

An area without dominant coverage has an essential difference from a coverage overlapping area. As shown in Figure 5-17, an area without dominant coverage also refers to an area where a slight level difference exists between the serving cell and neighbor cells and a difference of 5 dB exists between the downlink signals of the cells. The receive level in the area without dominant coverage, however, is average or poor. In this case, the C/I becomes unstable due to the frequency reuse, and even the frequent handover or the call drop occurs when the receive quality is poor. This problem should be solved before the problem with coverage overlapping.
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Figure 5-17 Test result of an area without dominant coverage
5. Uplink and Downlink Unbalancing

A GSM is a bidirectional communication system, and the uplink and the downlink have respective transmit powers and path fadings. To enable the system to work in the optimal state, you need to ensure the links in each cell reach the balance (between the uplink and the downlink). If any uplink or downlink incurs a fault, the coverage is reduced.
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Figure 5-18 Uplink and downlink unbalancing (uplink fault)
The RF optimization is performed based on the DT; so the downlink coverage is more visual. The uplink coverage is reflected by the exceptional events in the DT, such as poor call completion rate, high call drop rate, and handover failure. If the traffic statistics data is unavailable in the RF optimization, it is recommended that you trace a single subscriber in the OMC equipment room to obtain the uplink MR information on the Abis interface for analysis with the DT file. If the traffic statistics data is available, it is recommended that you analyze the balance between uplink and downlink on each TRX in a cell.
5.2.2 Analysis and Handling

1. Factors Affecting Coverage
You can understand the factors affecting coverage through the formulas of uplink and downlink receive levels. As shown in Figure 5-19, the formulas of uplink and downlink receive levels are as follows:

RxLev(DL) = P BTS - Lcom - Lj - La - Lf - Lcon - Laj + Gant - Lp RxLev(UL) = P MS - Lp + Gant + Gdiv - Laj - Lcon - Lf - La - Lj
When a TMA is installed at the BTS, the formulas of uplink and downlink receive levels are as follows:

RxLev(DL) = P BTS - Lcom - Lj - La - Lf - Lcon - LTMA - Laj + Gant - Lp RxLev(UL) = P MS - Lp + Gant + Gdiv - Laj - Lcon - Lf - La - Lj + NF
Where,

PBTS indicates the carrier transmit power of a BTS. P MS indicates the transmit power of an MS. Lcom is the combiner loss of a BTS. Lj is the soft jumper loss at the cabinet top. La is the arrester loss. Note that the location of an arrester differs in new and old BTSs. For example, an external arrester is used in the BTS312, and the arrester loss needs to be considered. A built-in arrester is used in the BTS3012, and the arrester loss does not need to be considered. Lf is the feeder loss. Lcon is the total loss of feeder connectors. Laj is
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the soft jumper loss at the antenna end. Lp is the path loss (namely, the propagation loss over the air interface). Gant is the antenna gain. Gdiv is the receive gain of the uplink diversity.
LTMA indicates the downlink insertion loss introduced by a TMA and is about 1 dB. NF indicates the uplink gain after a TMA is added, and is about 3 dB.
Figure 5-19 GSM link budget model (without TMA)
Factors affecting downlink coverage Seen from the preceding formula, the key factors affecting downlink coverage are categorized as follows: 1. Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP). In the same propagation loss, the greater the EIRP is, the better the downlink coverage is. The formula of the EIRP is as follows: EIRP = P BTS - Lcom - Lj - La - Lf - Lcon - Laj + Gant The key factors affecting the ERIP are described as follows:

PBTS is the transmit power of a TRX and is determined by Power Type, Power Level, and Power Finetune of the TRX. Lcom is the combiner loss and is determined by the TRX type and the site configuration mode. Gant is the antenna gain, and each antenna has a different gain.
2. Path loss (Lp). Many formulas (propagation models) for path loss are provided in different scenarios, but the key factors affecting path loss can be categorized as follows:
Frequency band: The propagation loss differs at each frequency band. The higher the frequency band is, the greater the loss is. For example, in the same propagation conditions, a signal at 1800M has 8 to 10 dB propagation loss more than a signal at 900M. Antenna height: If the EIRP and the downtilt angle of the antenna keep unchanged, the higher the antenna is, the wider the cell coverage is. Distance of a receive point from the BTS.
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Propagation scenarios (urban and suburban areas) and terrain (plains, mountains and hills). The downtilt angle of an antenna is an effective approach to coverage control. The greater the downtilt angle is, the closer the cell coverage is. A great downtilt angle is applicable to a dense urban area. When the EIRP keeps unchanged, the great downtilt angle both controls the coverage and enhances the in-depth coverage. Azimuth angle. The azimuth angle determines the coverage direction of the horizontal beam of an antenna. If the azimuth angle does not point at the required coverage direction due to the planning reason, you need to tune the azimuth angle.
3. Downtilt angle of an antenna.
Factors affecting uplink coverage Compared with the factors affecting downlink coverage, the factors affecting uplink coverage are categorized as follows: 1. Receiver sensitivity of a BTS. 2. Diversity gain of an antenna. 3. Transmit power of an MS. 4. Uplink propagation loss, similar to downlink propagation loss. 5. TMA. Huawei's BTSs can guarantee the balance between uplink and downlink. Therefore, the balance between uplink and downlink is ensured in most sites. If a coverage problem occurs in these sites, and the downlink coverage is optimized, the uplink coverage is optimized simultaneously. If a coverage problem occurs in a site with unbalanced uplink and downlink, you need to otherwise solve the problem.
2. Analysis and Handling of Poor Coverage

Table 5-2 describes the relationship between the receive level and the coverage in scenarios. Table 5-2 Downlink receive level in scenarios Coverage Classifications Good In-building Average In-building Good In-car Average In-car Outdoor DL RxLev Threshold -70 dBm -78 dBm -85 dBm -88 dBm -92 dBm Urban high\medium\low density, skyscrapers, airport Suburban, industrial Suburban dense vegetation, open, village, town, river Agricultural, high tree density Water Coverage Classification
Coverage hole A coverage hole is defined as follows:
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RxLevSub of a serving cell < RxLevSub_Min threshold (for example, -95 dBm) and RxLev (BCCH) of a neighbor cell < RxLevSub_Min threshold (for example, -95 dBm)
An area with a coverage hole can be found from the log file imported in the background processing software, for example, Assistant or Actix.
Lack of dominant coverage The lack of dominant coverage belongs to one of poor coverage problems. In an area without dominant coverage, the receive level is average or poor due to the planning or terrain reason, and an MS cannot camp on a cell. In addition, the C/I of the serving cell is unstable due to the frequency reuse to cause handover failure or call drop. After determining a poor coverage area, you need to further analyze the following contents: 1. An area with poor downlink coverage. You need to analyze whether the cell dominantly covering the area works properly, and then check whether a hardware fault occurs in the cell. As shown in Figure 5-20, you can combine the activated cells with RxLev with the report output by the background software, and then check the cells without signals in the DT.
Figure 5-20 RxLev and activated cells (indicated by green sectors)
2. Analyze the distance of the area from peripheral BTSs and the circumstance, and then check the RxLev distribution in neighbor sites to judge whether the BTSs covering this area also have the problem. 3. When the peripheral BTSs work properly, analyze the EIRPs of peripheral sectors in combination with the parameter configuration to maximize the EIRPs in the planning. Based on the formula, EIRP = Pout(TRX) Loss(Combine) Loss(Cable) + Ga(Antenna), check the parameters such as Power Type, Power Level, and combination mode. For example, for the BTS3012, check Power Type, Power Level, and Power Finetune of each TRU in a cell. When Power Type is a planned output power (40 W or 60 W), check Power Level and Power Finetune that can cause power attenuation.
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If Power Type is set to 40 W, and Power Level is set to 10, the transmit power of the TRX is 10 x log (40 W/1 mW) 2 x 10 (Power Level) = 46 20 = 26 dBm. As a result, the EIRP of the cell is seriously affected to form poor coverage due to overrapid signal attenuation. 4. When the maximum EIRPs are available in a BTS, check the engineering parameters of sectors such as the downtilt angle of the antenna, the azimuth angle, the antenna gain, and the antenna height. If the poor coverage occurs, you can, through the budget, shrink the downtilt angle of the antenna, tune the azimuth angle, replace a high-gain antenna, or raise the antenna height to improve the coverage. The implementation difficulty of the preceding approaches rises in turn. In addition, you need to consider the effect of the preceding operations on the existing network. For example, when tuning an antenna to solve the problem with a coverage hole, you need to check whether a new coverage hole appears; when raising the antenna height or replacing the antenna with one of high gain, you need to check the interference with the network. At the RF optimization phase, if the coverage forecast complies with the DT well, you can forecast the tuned network with the planning software and take the forecast result as a tuning basis. 5. If there are a large number of subscribers in the non-overlapping area of the neighbor BTSs or the overlapping area is small, and which cannot be solved through antenna tuning, suggest a new BTS to solve the problem with a coverage hole and give the recommended location of the new BTS. 6. Analyze the effect of scenarios and terrains on the coverage, for example, check whether high mountains or buildings exist around a poor coverage area, or a special solution is required for a poor coverage area. a. b. In a coverage area affected by terrains such as valleys and mountainside backs, you can add a BTS or an RRU to extend the coverage. In the signal blind zones such as elevator shafts, tunnels, underground garages or basements, and high building insides, you can solve the problem with the RRU, indoor distribution system, leaky cable, or directional antenna.
3. Analysis and Handling of Overshooting
Cross-area coverage When analyzing a cross-area coverage problem, you need to find the cells with cross-area coverage, and then analyze the reasons for causing cross-area coverage with the emulation software or the formula to find the solution.
Finding the cells with cross-area coverage You can use the following two means to search for the cells with cross-area coverage:
Take statistics for the distance of each test point from the serving cell with the background processing software, and the find the test areas far from the serving cell or find the areas with an overlarge TA from the test log. Distance of a test point from the serving cell > MaxServerDistant (for example, 2 km for Urban) or TA of the serving cell > Max TA
Use the task of Number of MRs based on TA per TRX in the traffic statistics at the BSC to take statistics for the TA distribution of all cells in an area to be optimized. As shown in Figure 5-21, you need to pay attention to the cell where the MRs based on the TA exist both near and far.
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Figure 5-21 TA distribution of all TRXs in a cell
Theoretical analysis of cross-area coverage After determining the cells with cross-area coverage, you need to analyze the reasons for causing cross-area coverage with the emulation software or the formula. Before using a theoretical model to guide the tuning scheme, you need to set up the consistency between the actual coverage and the forecast coverage. It is necessary to ensure accurate engineering parameters such as feeder parameters (horizontal half power angle and vertical half power angle) of each cell, feeder height, and downtilt angle. 1. Emulation software (U-net) After importing the accurate engineering parameters, digital map, and corrected propagation model with the emulation software, you can create a map of coverage by transmitter. You can see the area with cross-area coverage signals from the cell coverage map. As shown in Figure 5-22, the signal strength of the sector 2019-3 in the red circle exceeds those of other BTSs that shall cover this area. In addition, you can judge the serious cross-area coverage occurs in the sector 2019-3 based on the actual DT.
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Figure 5-22 Coverage by transmitter
2. Formula For a BTS in an urban area, when the antenna has no tilt angle or has a small tilt angle, the coverage of each cell depends on the parameters such as the antenna height, azimuth angle, gain, transmit power, and terrain. In this case, the coverage radius can be calculated by the Okumura-Hata formula or the COST231 formula. When the antenna has a large tilt angle, the coverage radius cannot be calculated by the preceding formula. In this case, you can estimate the radius with the vertical half power angle and the tilt angle when the emulation software is unavailable. The estimation method is described as follows: Assume that the coverage radius is D(m); the antenna height is H(m); the tilt angle is ; the vertical half power angle is . Figure 5-23 shows the relationship between the beam under the main lobe of the antenna and the ground plane.
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Figure 5-23 Relationship between the beam under the main lobe of the antenna and the ground plane
When the tilt angle is 0, the main lobe (namely, main energy) radiates in the horizontal direction. When the downtilt angle is , the extension line in the main lobe direction finally intersects a point (point A) on the ground. The antenna has a beamwidth in the vertical direction; so the energy still radiates the direction from point A to point B. According to the antenna performance, the antenna gain drops slow inside the half power angle , and the antenna gain (especially the upper lobe) drops rapidly beyond the half power angle. Therefore, when the tilt angle is considered, the antenna covers the area inside point B (an intersectant point from the extension line of the half power angle to the ground plane). Based on the preceding analysis and the geometrical principle, you can conclude the relationship between the antenna height, downtilt angle, and coverage distance:
acrtag(H / D) / 2
You can use the preceding formula to estimate the site coverage distance after the tilt angle, height, and antenna type change and take the estimation result as a basis of coverage control. Note: The tilt angle must be greater than half of the half power angle, and the distance D must be less than the distance calculated by the formula when the tilt angle is 0.
Tuning suggestions for cross-area coverage: The following measures are taken for cross-area coverage: 1. Tune the azimuth angle of an antenna. To avoid the direction of the main lobe of an antenna towards the street, you need to properly tune the azimuth angle of the antenna to make the direction of the main lobe form a bevel in the direction of the street. In this case, the surrounding buildings can block further coverage when the electric waves are reflected by the buildings at both sides of the street. 2. When the azimuth angle of an antenna is reasonable, tune the downtilt angle of the antenna or replace the antenna with an antenna with a larger electrical downtilt angle. Tuning a downtilt angle is a most effective approach to coverage control. The electrical downtilt angle and the mechanical downtilt angle are involved in the tuning. The electrical downtilt angle is first tuned if possible. For how to tune the downtilt angle of an antenna, see section 9.1 "Approaches to Tuning a Downtilt Angle".
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Generally, the tuning extent of the mechanical downtilt angle does not exceed 10; otherwise, the pattern of the antenna is seriously distorted. As shown in Figure 5-24, the pattern of the antenna is distorted when the mechanical downtilt angle is enlarged. In this case, the coverage overlapping area between the sector and other sectors rise, which is disadvantageous to intra-network interference. Tuning the electrical downtilt angle, however, does not cause this case. Figure 5-24 Effect of the downtilt angle on the horizontal pattern
3. Reduce the transmit power of a TRX. You can set Power Level and Power Finetune to reduce the transmit power of a TRX. The tuning result affects in-depth coverage; so this method is not widely recommended. 4. Lower the height of an antenna. If a site is built at the top of the building, this method cannot be implemented. In this case, you can replace the antenna with an antenna with a larger electrical downtilt angle for coverage control.
Coverage overlapping You can find a coverage overlapping area with the background analysis software. The filtering conditions are described as follows:

The number of neighbor cells with ServBCCH_RxLev-NborRxLev[n] less than 5 is greater than or equal to 3. The receive level is greater than -70 dBm. Frequent handover occurs in the area.
In the test process, an MS usually occupies the TCH; so ServRxLev_Sub involves the power control effect. It is recommended to compare the RxLev of the main BCCH in the serving cell with those in neighbor cells. In this case, a scanner is required. If the MS can obtain the receive level on both the BCCH and the call channel, the cell without dominant coverage can also be found. You need to optimize a coverage overlapping area as required and ensure the area can still provide a sufficient capacity after reducing coverage overlapping. It is recommended to tune the coverage of neighbor cells with the emulation software to optimize the coverage overlapping area.
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4. Uplink and Downlink Unbalancing

This problem is analyzed and solved based on the traffic statistics instead of the background processing software. For the solution to uplink and downlink unbalancing, refer to the GSM BSS KPI (Uplink and Downlink Unbalancing) Optimization Manual . The contents in the optimization manual include the definition of uplink and downlink unbalancing, how to locate the problem based on the signaling and traffic statistics, the solution idea, and the analysis procedure.
5.2.3 Cases of Coverage Problems

1. Replacing an Overhigh Antenna to Solve the Problem with Cross-area coverage in a BTS
[Description] The antenna height in BTS A is 45 m. BTS A is located in a dense urban area, and the antenna heights in peripheral BTSs are about 25 m. The information found in the DT is as follows: The signals at the intersection of the sectors of BTS A and the peripheral BTSs are strong enough to cause frequent handover. The signal quality is poor. The information found in the traffic statistics is as follows: The call drop rate of BTS A is 1.7%, far higher than the average value 0.6% of peripheral BTSs. In addition, the traffic of BTS A is high and is not properly shared by peripheral BTSs. [Cause Analysis] 1. 2. Check BTS A for a hardware fault and the parameter configuration. Check the antenna of BTS A. The information about the antenna is as follows: Katherine dual-polarized antenna, 65o, 15.5 dBi, and 16 o of mechanical downtilt angle. BTS A is placed at the top of a high building; so the antenna height cannot be lowered. Measure the distance of BTS A from a peripheral BTS with the Nastar tool. The measured distance is 800 m. Based on the actual judgment, the coverage of BTS A shall be tuned inside about 600 m. The actual coverage, however, exceeds 1.5 km, seriously preempting the subscriber group in the coverage area of a neighbor BTS. In this case, frequent handover affects the KPIs of BTS A and the voice quality in the area.
3.
4.
[Handling Procedure] 1. 2. 3. Replace the antenna with an antenna with a larger electrical downtilt angle. After replacing the antenna, change the downtilt angle to 20o (mechanical downtilt plus electrical downtilt). Test BTS A and find the following information: The coverage is about 800 m, and the cross-area coverage disappears. The traffic in BTS A drops, and the traffic in peripheral BTSs rises. Observe the traffic statistics and find the following information: The call drop rate in BTS A drops to 0.8%, and the call completion rate greatly rises. The cross-area coverage and frequent handover disappear.
4.
[Suggestion and Summary] In practice, replacing an antenna is a good solution to the cross-area coverage.
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2. Coverage Hole Caused by the Installation of a Main Transmit Antenna

[Description] The information found in the freeway test is as follows: The coverage level of the road section 2 km far from the directional BTS is low (only -90 dBm), and a poor coverage area is formed between BTSs. [Cause Analysis] 1. 2. Check the directional BTS for a hardware fault and the parameter configuration. Check the feeder installation of the BTS and find that the plane formed by the main transmit antenna and the diversity receive antenna runs parallel with the road direction, which does not comply with the installation specifications. According to the specifications, the antenna should be installed in this way: The plane formed by the main transmit antenna and the diversity receive antenna runs vertical with the road direction, and the main transmit antenna is close to one side of the road, as shown in Figure 5-25.
3.
Figure 5-25 Installation location of an directional antenna
[Handling Procedure] 1. 2. Install the antenna in the way shown in Figure 5-25. Retest the level in the poor coverage area between BTSs and find the level is about -80 dBm. Till now, the problem is solved.
[Suggestion and Summary] 3. For an directional BTS, the main transmit antenna shall be installed on the side closest to the dominant coverage area as much as possible.
3. Poor Coverage Caused by Missing of Neighbor Cells

[Description]
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The information found in the optimization of a region is as follows: The signal coverage in a suburban area is poor, and the tested signal strength is less than -95 dBm. [Cause Analysis] 1. 2. 3. The road section is about 3 km far from the urban area, and the terrain is smooth. According to the theoretical analysis, the signal strength shall be about -80 dBm, a great difference from the tested strength. Perform frequency sweep test in the road section and find the signal strength of frequency 12 is about -95 dBm and that of frequency 15 is -80 dBm. Three cells of BTS A and BTS B in the urban area cover the road section (BCCH frequencies 12 and 15), and one sector of BTS C in the suburban area covers the road section (BCCH frequency 9). The information found in the BA2 table in the system information is as follows: Frequency 15 does not exist in the neighbor configuration of the cell A-3. In the urban area, the MS camps on the cell A-3. A neighbor cell is not configured for the cell A-3; so the MS still camps on the cell A-3 when reaching the road section and cannot be handed over to the neighbor cell (namely, cell B-3).
4.
[Handling Procedure] 1. 2. Notify the personnel at the OMC equipment room to configure the neighborhood between cell A-3 and cell B-3. Retest the road section and find the problem is solved.
5.3 Analysis of Quality Problems

The quality of a GSM network depends on the coverage, capacity, and interference. According to the requirements of a GSM network, C/I should be greater than 9 dB and C/A should be greater than -9 dB. In practice, a margin of 3 dB is required, that is, C/I should be greater than 12 dB and C/A should be greater than -6 dB.
When the coverage is poor (for example, the level is less than -90 dBm), low carrier signals cannot meet the conditions (C/I is greater than 12 dB and C/A is greater than -6 dB). Accordingly, the bit error rate (BER) rises and the RxQual drops.
Table 5-3 Relationship between RxQual and BER Receive Quality Level 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 BER < 0.2% 0.2 0.4% 0.4 0.8% 0.8 1.6% 1.6 3.2% 3.2 6.4% 6.4 12.8% > 12.8%
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When the coverage is good (for example, the level is greater than -80 dBm), intra-network or inter-network interference causes a rise of the interference, which cannot meet the conditions (C/I is greater than 12 dB and C/A is greater than -6 dB). Accordingly, the bit error rate (BER) rises and the RxQual drops.
Therefore, if the quality problem occurs due to low carrier signals, you can solve the problem according to the approaches described in section 5.2 "Analysis of Coverage Problems". If the quality problem (usually high level and high BER) occurs due to a rise of interference signals, you can solve the problem according to the following contents.
5.3.1 Interference Categorization

Similar to coverage problems, interference problems are categorized into two types: uplink interference and downlink interference.
1. Downlink Interference
DT is a common approach to finding downlink interference. In the dedicated mode, the test device can measure the signal level, receive quality, power control level, and TA of a serving cell and neighbor cells. When the high level ( -80 dBm) and low quality (Rx_Qual 5) occur continually in a road section, you can judge the road section incurs downlink interference. Some test devices can display the frame error rate (FER). When FER is greater than 25%, voice discontinuity occurs, that is, the road section incurs interference. In addition, you can judge downlink interference by the tasks of TCHF Receive Level Measurement per TRX and TCHH Receive Level Measurement per TRX in the traffic statistics. In the BSC6000, the traffic statistics divide the receive level and receive quality into eight ranks, as shown in Table 5-4. If too many MRs of a cell appear in the quadrant of Good RxLev & Poor RxQual, the cell incurs downlink interference. In this case, you need to locate the cause through the DT. Table 5-4 Traffic statistics for receive level RxLev BER < 0.2% 0.2 0.4% 0.4 0.8% 0.8 1.6% 1.6 3.2% 3.2 6.4% 6.4 12.8% > 12.8% Rank 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Poor RxLev Poor RxQual Good RxLev Poor RxQual <-100 0 (-100,85] 1 (-85,-80] 2 (-80,-75] 3 (-75,-70] 4 (-70,-65] 5 (-65,-60] 6 >-60 7
Poor RxLev Good RxQual
Good RxLev Good RxQual
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2. Uplink Interference
It is difficult to find uplink interference in the DT. If the transmit power of an MS keeps a maximum value, and handover or call drop occurs, this case is likely caused by uplink interference. If simultaneously tracing a single subscriber, you can judge whether uplink interference occurs by RxLev and RxQual in the uplink MRs. In addition, you can observe the uplink interference band on the O&M console or by the task Interference Band Measurement per TRX in the traffic statistics to fast locate the TRXs and cells where uplink interference occurs. Table 5-5 describes the definition of an interference band. The higher the rank is, the higher the level is. If an idle channel is in interference band 4 or interference band 5, the interference occurs. Table 5-5 Relationship between interference bands and levels (default parameter configuration) Interference Band Interference Band 1 Interference Band 2 Interference Band 3 Interference Band 4 Interference Band 5 Level Range -105 dBm to -98 dBm -98 dBm to -90 dBm -90 dBm to -87 dBm -87 dBm to -85 dBm -85 dBm to -47 dBm
Note: The measurement value of an interference band refers to the level of uplink interference reported by the RF RESOURCE INDICATION message to the BSC when a channel is idle. If a cell has overhigh traffic in busy hours, the measurement value of the interference band is low. In this case, you must judge the interference by observing the number of uplink interference indication messages in the traffic statistics of Interference Band Measurement per TRX and the interference band in non busy hours.
5.3.2 Cause Analysis

The handling idea is similar for either uplink interference or downlink interference. The interference problems are categorized as follows:

Interference caused by hardware Intra-network interference Inter-network interference
This guide is intended to optimize and tune engineering parameters; so the intra-interference caused by planning parameters is described. For the solution to the problems caused by other causes such as hardware and inter-network interference, refer to the G-Interference Analysis Guide. The improper planning of engineering parameters generally involves the following aspects:
1. Improper Frequency Planning

When planning frequencies in a GSM network, you can perform hierarchical planning for BCCH and TCH based on the available frequencies and use different frequency reuse policies. Generally, 4*3 reuse is used for BCCH to ensure C/I requirements to the greatest extent, while
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tight frequency reuse patterns such as 1*3 frequency hopping, 1*1 frequency hopping, and 3*3 frequency hopping. The preceding frequency planning policy differs for network operators. Therefore, before RF optimization planning, you must create the frequency planning policy for the entire network and determine the frequencies assigned to BCCH and the frequencies assigned to TCH. Then you can check the frequency planning for a problematic cell to find co-channel interference and adjacent-channel interference. The following principles serves as a basis of frequency optimization must be abided by in frequency planning: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Co-channel and adjacent-channel frequencies should not exist in a BTS, except side-channel frequencies exist in an MA group. It is recommended that the frequency interval between BCCH and TCH is more than 400K. If frequency hopping is used, it is recommended that the frequency interval between TCHs in a cell is more than 400K. Co-channel frequencies shall be avoided for adjacent BTSs. Side lobes and back lobes cause interference even if the directions of main lobes differ. Considering the antenna height and the complexity of a propagation environment, opposite or diagonally opposite co-channel and adjacent-channel frequencies shall be avoided for near BTSs. Generally, 1*3 reuse shall ensure the number of frequencies in frequency hopping is twice more than the number of carrier frequencies in frequency hopping. You must pay more attention to co-channel frequency reuse to avoid the same BCCH and the same BSIC in an adjacent area.
6. 7.
2. Tight Frequency Reuse

BTS layout plays an important role in the earlier network planning. BTSs must be reasonably distributed based on the requirements of coverage, capacity, network quality, and total construction investment, regardless of any frequency planning technology. Capacity contradicts quality. In some cases, the tight frequency reuse technology must be used to meet the requirements of capacity when quality is sacrificed. If BTSs are distributed improperly, and the tight frequency reuse technology is used, the co-channel and adjacent channel collision occur. In this case, you must optimize the network carefully, especially cross-area coverage. In the planning design phase, you must ensure reasonable layout of a network, BTSs distributed in regular meshes, and similar antenna height. In the optimization phase, you must control cross-area coverage, reduce coverage overlapping, raise handover sensitivity, and lower adjacent-channel collision.
3. Improper Cell Layout

Improper cell layout maybe occurs due to site selection and complex environment. In this case, some areas may be in poor coverage while other areas in strong coverage.
4. Overhigh BTS Location or Antenna Height

In a reasonable network, each cell covers only the areas around a BTS, and an MS camps on (or calls in) the nearest cell. If a BTS is located in an overhigh place, most areas around the BTS are in the range of visibility of the antenna to cause signals to propagate in a large range. In addition, cross-area coverage also appears. In this case, an MS can camp on or a further cell to cause serious interference with the cell. The effects include improper traffic absorption,
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interference, call drop, congestion, and handover failure. For the solution to this problem, see section 5.2.2 3. "Analysis and Handling of Overshooting".
5. Improper Azimuth Angle

In a network containing multiple BTSs, azimuth angles must be set properly based on the information such as BTS layout, coverage requirements, and traffic distribution. Generally, azimuth angles must be mutually supplementary in sectors. Otherwise, some sectors simultaneously covers an area to form coverage overlapping, or other areas are covered poorly to form a cell without dominant coverage. These problems cause poor receive quality. In this case, you can tune azimuth angles as required to solve the problems.
6. Improper Downtilt Angle

A downtilt angle is set based on antenna height relative to the surrounding features, coverage requirements, and antennal model. If a downtilt angle is set improperly, other areas beyond its coverage are interfered, and even call drop occurs.
7. Effect of Ambient Environment

A radio environment generally involves terrains and features, building distribution, street distribution, water areas, and so on. In such a radio environment, it is difficult to control radio signals. An ambient environment affects the receive quality in the following three aspects: 1. A high building or a mountain blocks the propagation of signals. If a target area is covered by a BTS, and poor coverage occurs in the BTS after propagation signals are blocked by buildings or mountains, the target area has no dominant coverage to cause poor receive quality. A street or a water area affects signal propagation. When the direction of an antenna is towards the street, its coverage is further along the street. If the street is also covered by other BTSs, the interference occurs. A high building reflects signals. When high buildings exist near a BTS, the signals of the BTS are reflected to the coverage area of other BTSs to cause intra-network interference.
2.
3.
5.3.3 Troubleshooting Methods

To remove interference caused by improper planning of engineering parameters, use the following methods:
1. Optimizing Frequency Planning

Frequency optimization is an important task in RF optimization. If the workload of frequency optimization is not heavy, you can import the engineering parameters containing BCCH and TCH frequencies into the optimization tool Genex Nastar, as shown in Figure 5-26. The tool enables you to check the frequency planning of BCCH, TCH and frequency hopping by using the functions in Frequency Analysis.
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Figure 5-26 Frequency analysis through Nastar
Modifying the frequency plan is generally the most effective way of removing intra-network interference caused by improper frequency planning. However, when network reuse reaches a given limit, it is very difficult, even impossible, to find better frequencies through frequency planning. In this case, you can tune the azimuth angle/downtilt angle/height of the antenna to adjust the coverage. Alternatively, you can re-plan all the frequencies throughout the coverage area. This helps optimize frequency planning by assigning frequencies more reasonably. To optimize the entire network through frequency re-planning, you need to customize a traffic statistics task on the BSC, import traffic statistics results and network information by using a dedicated platform and frequency re-planning tool. You also need to generate a network-wide frequency optimization solution based on the preset optimization conditions. This operation requires technical support from the HQ Frequency Re-planning Center.
2. Tuning Antenna
According to actual testing conditions, change the strength of interference signals within the interference area by tuning the azimuth angle and downtilt angle of the antenna. In this way, you can change the distribution of signals in this area. Ensure that the level of the dominant coverage sector is increased and the levels of other sectors are reduced. To enhance the coverage of an area, tune the azimuth angle of the antenna to direct it opposite to the area. To weaken the coverage of an area, tune the azimuth angle of the antenna to direct it away from the area. Similarly, you can increase the coverage of cells by reducing the downtilt angle of the antenna, and decrease the coverage of cells by increasing the downtilt angle of the antenna. In addition, the antenna height can be adjusted to control intra-network interference. You should keep the antenna height largely the same in an urban area.
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The tuning solution does not apply to all areas. If the solution fails, you can take other measures according to conditions. For example, replace the antenna model, add reflection or isolation equipment, change the antenna location, and relocate the BTS.
3. Adding Dominant Coverage

Interference is caused by joint coverage of multiple cells. Therefore, an immediate solution is to increase the power of a cell and decrease those of others to form a dominant coverage. If an antenna pattern is to become distortional during your increase of the downtilt angle, you can decrease the pilot power. Power adjustment can be used with antenna adjustment.
4. Enabling Functions
Enabling DTX and power control is also an important solution to intra-network interference. They are described as follows: The DTX function falls into uplink DTX and downlink DTX. To enable uplink DTX, set UL DTX to Shall use at the BSC. To enable downlink DTX, turn on the downlink DTX at both the BSC and the MSC. It is recommended to use the third-generation algorithm for power control.
5.3.4 Cases of Interference Problems

1. Serious Call Drop Caused by Neighbor Interference
[Description] During the test, the poor receiving quality on the road section between BTSs A and B leads to a call drop. Figure 5-27 locates the frequencies of surrounding BTSs and the call drop. The first frequency of each cell is the BCCH frequency, and the second is the TCH frequency. Figure 5-27 Topology of BTS distribution and frequency planning
[Cause Analysis]
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2.
According to the analysis of DT data before and after the call drop, the MS occupies frequency 111 of cell A-3 before the call drop, and the signal quality is poor. The list of neighbor cells shows that the BCCH 112 in a neighbor cell has powerful signals of -73 dBm. Seen from the topology diagram, sector D-3 does not cover the call drop location, and should not have such a high receive level. Antenna feeder problems, such as wrong connection of antenna feeders, may exist in sector D-3. The practical check result at BTS D shows that antenna feeders are not wrongly connected. The antenna of sector D-3 is installed on the roof platform, and a glass house is located at a place 8 m far away from the antenna and 4 m lower than the antenna. The signal strength is about -25 dBm near the antenna, but -14 dBm near the glass. The reason is that the signal superposition caused by total reflection of glass leads to a reflection of secondary wave source to the call drop location. It is recommended to change the antenna location. If emergently, you can modify the frequencies. Exchange frequency 111 with frequency 114 of BTS A; enlarge the downtilt angle of the antenna in cell A-3. Tune the azimuth angle of cell C1 (frequency 113) as required to avoid interference with frequency 114.
3.
4.
5.
[Handling Procedure] The test result is normal after troubleshooting. Frequency 113 of BTS C does not interfere with frequency 114. The call drop phenomenon disappears.
2. Network-wide Cross Interference Caused by Topographical Factors

[Description] One of two clusters in a city has poor DT results, including several handover failures. Many cases of cross-area coverage occur during the test. [Cause Analysis] 1. The city is divided into east cluster and west cluster in geography. Seen from the Google Earth application, the altitude height of the city gradually rises from west to east. As a result, the east cluster is 20 30 m higher than the west cluster, as shown in Figure 5-28.
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Figure 5-28 Topography and distribution of BTSs on the Google Earth
2.
According to the analysis of DT results of the west cluster, almost all handover failures occur in sector 3. When an MS occupies a cell of the west cluster, it often receives signals from the BCCH in sector 3 of the east cluster because of the neighbor relation. The TA is about 10 at that time. According to the statistics and analysis of TA in sector 3 of the east cluster, the distribution of TA is as shown in Figure 5-29 in many cells. Cross-area coverage is very serious in sector 3, thus leading to cross interference to the west cluster.
3.
Figure 5-29 Distribution of TAs in sector 3 of a BTS
[Handling Procedure] Filter out all sectors that have abnormal distribution of TA in the two clusters of the city through TA traffic statistics. Make proposals for tuning the downtilt angle in the appropriate sectors.
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[Suggestion and Summary] Start from frequency planning to analyze intra-network interference. In addition, focus on the coverage and interference cause by other objective factors, and then make proper optimization strategies.
3. Decrease of Network-wide Handover Success Rate Caused by Inter-Network Interference

[Description] After network cutover, the traffic KPIs show that the radio handover success rate of the entire network is greatly decreased in some periods, and it is normal in most of periods. [Cause Analysis] 1. According to the analysis of network information, the network uses the frequencies of frequency band E and the master station model S2. BCCH and TCH frequencies are separately planned. The analysis result of traffic statistics in the decreasing periods shows that the radio handover success rate is decreased most seriously in sector 1. According to the further analysis of unlink and downlink receiving quality measurement of TRXs, the uplink receive quality of BCCH TRX in these sectors is far lower than that of TCH TRX. The interference band of BCCH TRX reaches grades 3, 4, and 5. If BCCH frequencies of these sectors are found to be continuous, it is certain that the frequency band is interfered with by the outside.
2. 3.
4.
[Handling Procedure] Use YBT250 to test the electromagnetic environment of the outside. Powerful interference signals are measured in some periods, and the KPIs in these periods show decreased handover success rate. According to the contact result with the local radio commission, the cause of this problem is that the local military base transmits signals through the transmitter with a frequency band in the planned BCCH frequency. [Suggestion and Summary] To solve the problem of network-wide KPI decrease, analyze the traffic statistics data and parameter configuration to find rules of the problem.
5.4 Analysis of Handover Problems

During RF optimization, what can be seen from the DT software is a triggered handover. That is, the BSC delivers the Handover CMD message to the MS, and the MS accesses the target channel based on the channel description. Therefore, radio handover is generally the handover problem concerned by RF optimization through the DT software. RF optimization controls the size and location of the handover region. This helps reduce call drops caused by emergent signal change and improve the handover success rate. Pay attention to two handover problems in analyzing the DT result. One is handover failure event, and the other is unreasonable handover (it may be successful, but not in normal status). The unreasonable handover includes handover delay, ping pong handover, and non logical handover. The following describes and analyzes the handover problems.
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5.4.1 Categorization
1. Handover Failure
It is easy to identify a handover failure event. You can find the location of handover failure through an identifier in the foreground of DT software. As shown in Figure 5-30, the red box indicates a handover failure event. Figure 5-30 Handover failure event
There is a kind of handover failures with successive handover failures. An MS tries to hand over from source cell A to neighbor cell B, but it fails and returns to cell A. After the handover penalty time, the BSC resends a command of handing the MS to neighbor cell B, but the handover fails again. As shown in Figure 5-31, the continuous handover failure event is usually found at the test foreground. This problem is generally caused by target cell B.
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Figure 5-31 Continuous handover failure event
2. Handover Delay
Handover delay refers to an event that an MS should but does not hand over in a long period. In this period, you can find that the receive level of the serving cell is persistently over-low or the receive quality is persistently poor before handover. As shown in Figure 5-32, an MS should be handed over to Cell 2, the dominant coverage cell, after entering the Planned Handover Region. If the MS still remains at Cell 1 after entering the Dragged Handover Region, it must be a handover delay event. Figure 5-32 Principle of handover delay (level)
Figure 5-33 shows an example of handover delay in the practical DT. Seen from the line chart of the test foreground, a poor quality handover should happen earlier.
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Figure 5-33 Handover delay (poor quality)
3. Ping Pong Handover

An MS hands over from cell A to cell B, and rapidly hands over to cell C or returns to cell A in a short time or period. The redundant handover process causes a waste of channel resources on the Um, Abis and A interfaces, and may lead to voice interruption. This is called ping pong handover. It is caused by coverage or interference problems associated with the air interface, or improper setting of handover parameters. As shown in Figure 5-34, two ping pong handover events happen in the following path. For the first one, an MS hands over from cell 12424 to cell 12368, and then returns to cell 12424 in a short time. For the second time, the MS hands over from cell 12424 to cell 12366, and then rapidly returns to cell 12424.
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Figure 5-34 Example of ping pong handover
4. Non Logical Handover

Handover is to guarantee that an MS in conversation always remains at a cell that provides better signals. It ensures better service quality. Non logical handover refers to an event that an MS hands over to a cell having lower level, but not a cell having the best or better level.
5.4.2 Cause Analysis

1. Handover Failure
Take both of the DT and traffic statistics measures to analyze the cause of each radio handover failure event. Figure 5-35 shows the analysis idea. Figure 5-35 Analysis idea of poor radio handover
Poor radio handover
Handover reasonability
1. Check for neighbor reasonability 2. Average receiving level at handover initiation 3. Average receiving quality at handover initiation 4. Ratio of handover attempts to call attempts 5. Undefined neighbor performance measurement
Interference
1. Analysis of uplink interference band 2. Receiving level and receiving quality of the TRX 3. Number of handovers caused by poor uplink/downlink quality 4. Average receiving level and average power grade at handover initiation
Coverage
1. Cross coverage 2. Uplink/downlink imbalance 3. Receiving level measurement 4. Receiving quality measurement 5. Receiving level of neighbors 6. Average level and TA at call drop
Checking the handover reasonability
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At first, find out the source cell, target cell, and target channel in a handover event through the DT software. As shown in Figure 5-36, the Handover CMD command carries the information of the target cell: BCCH (9) and BSIC (55); Target channel (channel type: TCH full rate, timeslot: 6, TSC: 5, frequency hopping type: RF, MAIO: 0, HSN: 8, channel bitmap and frequency hopping sequence); Handover type (synchronous handover); Speech version (EFR speech version 2);
Figure 5-36 Handover signaling (Um)
After mastering the source cell and target cell, check this handover for its reasonability in geography through Nastar or Mapinfo. That is, check whether the handover happens between two cells that are far from each other in geography. As shown in Figure 5-37, add a neighbor relation of cell 8102-2 to cell 2097-1, to avoid handover failure between cells 2097-1 and 2030-2.
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Figure 5-37 Checking for complete handover relations through Nastar
After making sure that the DT handover is reasonable, analyze the source cell and target cell through two traffic statistics tasks of GSM Cell to GSM Cell Outgoing Handover Measurement and GSM Cell to GSM Cell Incoming Handover Measurement. This further associates the DT handover failure with the cell KPIs. According to traffic statistics of neighbors, if the source cell fails to hand over to all neighbors, check for the RF problems of the source cell such as hardware, coverage and interference. If the source cell fails to hand over to the target cell for many times, observe the incoming handover measurement of the target cell. If each neighbor fails to hand over to the target cell for many times, check for the RF problems of the target cell such as hardware, coverage and interference.
Interference Uplink or downlink interference is a root cause for handover failure. Focus on the interference of both the source cell and target cell to analyze the cause of handover failure. For details about the analysis methods, see section 5.3 "Analysis of Quality Problems."
Coverage Analyze the cause of handover failure from cross-area coverage, imbalance between uplink and downlink, receive quality of carrier frequencies, and receive level measurement of both the source cell and target cell. For details, see section 5.2 "Analysis of Coverage Problems."
2. Handover Delay
Analyze the cause of handover delay from the following aspects:

Check neighbors of the serving cell for their completeness and reasonability, and solve the problem of handover failure caused by missing configuration of neighbors. Check the handover threshold and hysteresis parameters of the source cell and target cell during the handover, such as inter-cell handover hysteresis, PGBT handover threshold, bad quality handover threshold, and level and quality threshold for interference handover. Solve the problem of delay handover caused by improper threshold or hysteresis.
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3. Ping Pong Handover

Analyze the process of frequent handovers between cells to find out the root cause of ping pong handover. Check the problems from two aspects:
Check for consistency between actual downlink coverage and planed downlink coverage. If the first target cell is far away from the source cell and the handover is returned to the original channel due to unstable levels, firstly solve the cross-area coverage problem of the target cell. If the source cell and the target cell have too many coverage overlapping areas and the radio signal strength is in fluctuation, frequent handovers may also occur. Contrary to handover delay, check whether the setting of over-small handover threshold and hysteresis parameters causes frequent handovers. If it is, increase the handover threshold appropriately.
4. Non Logical Handover

The root cause of non logical handover lies that the BSC uses the handover algorithm and delivers an improper handover target to the MS based on the measurement report of the MS. To solve this problem, check the configuration of handover parameters through the handover algorithm process. It is generally beyond the analysis scope of RF problems.
5.4.3 Optimization of Neighbor Relations

Seen from the previous analysis, DT analysis is to optimize the radio handover success rate. Besides incorrect planning and configuration of neighbor relations, the fundamental problems cover RF coverage and interference. For details about the optimization methods, see section 5.2 "Analysis of Coverage Problems" and section 5.3 "Analysis of Quality Problems." This section describes the principles and methods of optimizing neighbor relations. Neighbor optimization covers adding neighbor cells and deleting neighbor cells. In case of missing configuration of neighbor cells, a cell having powerful signals cannot be measured by the MS. This leads to over-low level, increased interference or even call drop. In this case, you need to add appropriate neighbor cells. In case of redundancy of neighbor cells, enormous messages of neighbor cells bring about unnecessary signaling overhead, and needed neighbor cells cannot be added in full configuration of neighbor cells. In this case, you need to delete redundant neighbor cells.
1. Principles of Neighbor Planning

Refer to the following principles in GSM neighbor planning:

In general, configure all cells in a site to mutually bi-directional neighbors, and adjacent cells in geography to neighbors. In some special cases, configure the cells to unidirectional neighbors. Up to 64 neighbor cells and 32 frequencies can be configured. Therefore, only configure the cells that are really adjacent to neighbors. Adding too many neighbors may cause prolonged MS measurement period and delayed handover behaviors, thus leading to call drops. For a dense urban area or common urban area, add level 2 neighbors directly opposite to a cell, and level 1 neighbors at the rear. For a suburb or county, because of a large space between BTSs, be sure to configure the cells that are adjacent in geography to neighbors, and add level 2 or more neighbors directly opposite to a cell.
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Avoid such a case that a cell has two or more neighbors having the same BCCH and BSIC, because it may cause handover problems.
2. Manual Optimization of Neighbors

Manual optimization of neighbors is to import the engineering parameters and neighbor parameters to the Nastar or Mapinfo. Based on the geographic display of neighbors, perform neighbor optimization in combination with principles of neighbor planning and relevant traffic statistics. As a traditional means of neighbor optimization, it requires the RF experience of engineers. Because it has lower efficiencies compared with the automatic neighbor planning, it applies to quantitative optimization of clusters but not network-wide neighbor optimization. Use the following methods for manual optimization of neighbors: 1. Import engineering parameters to the Nastar. Make sure that the LAC and CI are correct, to map the imported configuration data to engineering parameters and display the network topology on the map. For details, refer to section 5.2.3 "Management of Engineering Parameters" in the User Manual for Nastar GSM. Import the configuration data to the Nastar Transdata. Make sure that the configuration data of the BSC matches with engineering parameters through the LAC and CI, and the neighbor data of the BSC is correctly displayed. For details, refer to section 5.2.3 "Management of Engineering Parameters" in the User Manual for Nastar GSM. As shown in Figure 5-38, analyze the neighbor cells by using the submenus in Neighbors Analysis of the Nastar. For details about the instructions of each submenu, refer to section 9.6 "Analysis of Neighbor Cells" in the User Manual for Nastar GSM.
2.
3.
Figure 5-38 Neighbors Analysis menu of the Nastar
4. 5.
Choose Neighbor Display or press Ctrl+E to check neighbors of the problematic cell. The check result is as shown in Figure 5-38. Choose Add Bi-directional Neighbors to add the obviously missing neighbors. As shown in Figure 5-39, add a bi-directional neighbor relation with cell 8311-1.
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6.
For the neighbors that are obviously redundant and far from the serving cell, for example sector 8011-2 in Figure 5-39, delete its bi-directional neighbor relation with sector 8004-2. Before deleting a neighbor cell, make sure that too many handovers occur between this cell and the serving cell in the traffic statistics task GSM Cell to GSM Cell
Outgoing Handover Measurement.
Figure 5-39 Neighbor display through Nastar
7. 8.
In addition, you can choose Fewer Neighbor Check and Unidirectional Neighbor Check to check neighbors, and add missing bi-directional and unidirectional neighbors. After the optimization by adding or deleting neighbors through the Nastar, choose Export Neighbor Planning Result to export all optimization results to an EXCEL file for modifying OMC parameters. Take reliable measures to optimize the neighbor relation:

Optimize the neighbors with lower handover success rate only. Add or delete the obviously problematic neighbors (missing configuration or redundancy) only. For the neighbors that are not adjacent in geography and should be deleted, be sure to confirm the number of handovers in the traffic statistics task GSM Cell to GSM Cell Outgoing Handover Measurement, and delete the neighbors with fewer handovers and lower handover success rate.
Monitor the KPIs of the cell through traffic statistics after neighbor optimization. Make sure that no decrease of access, mobility or retention exists between the cell and surrounding cells. Otherwise, find out the problematic cell and restore the original configuration of neighbor relations.
3. Automatic Optimization of Neighbors

Automatic optimization of neighbors is to import the traffic statistics Neighbor Level Measurement per Cell customized and collected by the BSC through Automatic optimization of neighbors of the Nastar. A measurement report based neighbor optimization solution is output.
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Compared with manual optimization of neighbors, automatic optimization of neighbors requires modifying the BA2 table of the BSC during data collection. It adds frequencies to the BA2 table delivered by system information 5/6, to allow the MS to measure more undefined neighbors in conversation status. In addition, it provides the reasonability evaluation data of neighbors through statistics of frequency points, which may affect the network quality (handover and call drop) to different extent.
RF Optimization and Adjustment
According to the analysis in Chapter 5, RF optimization is to find out network problems through test and traffic statistics, and then solve coverage and interference problems by optimizing engineering parameters. This chapter summarizes major problems and solutions relating to RF optimization. Poor coverage (lower than the planned value or over-low) Increasing the power of cabinet top Checking the data of neighbor cells Tuning the downtilt angle, azimuth angle, and height of an antenna Adding new sectors and using high-gain antennas Adding repeaters or Microcells Adding BTSs Increasing the dominant coverage Tuning the antenna and decreasing the power of cabinet top, to reduce overlapping coverage and cross-area coverage Checking frequency planning (BCCH, BSIC, TCH, MAL, MAIO, and HSN) Checking the planning data of the serving cell and neighbors Enabling the DTX and power control Checking external interference Tuning the downtilt angle, azimuth angle and height of an antenna Tuning the transmit power of the TRX Tuning the downtilt angle, azimuth angle, and height of an antenna Tuning the transmit power of the TRX
Poor quality (caused by poor receive level)
Interference (high level and low quality)

Overlapping coverage (beyond the planned coverage)

Cross-area coverage (controlling extra coverage or correcting improper planning data)

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Checking and adjusting neighbor data Re-planning the sites at high places Dividing network layers Adjusting neighbor data Re-planning the azimuth angle of the blocked antenna Raising the height of an antenna (Raising the height of an antenna as long as cross-area coverage does not occur) Relocating the antenna (considering the requirements of horizontal and vertical beam widths for the location and height) Checking the link budget of a site Analyzing the uplink/downlink unbalanced TRX based on the traffic statistics data
Blocking of an antenna

Imbalance between uplink and downlink

These operations are arranged as follows from high priority to low priority:

Modifying the frequency planning Tuning the downtilt angle of an antenna Tuning the azimuth angle of an antenna Tuning the output power Tuning the antenna height Relocating an antenna Changing an antenna model Adding TMAs Changing a site type (for example, changing the omni-directional site to sector 3 site) Relocating a site Adding sites/RRUs
In RF optimization, there are also many network quality problems not raised by RNP, such as hardware problem and transmission problem. Filter alarm data to solve these problems. When alarms relate to the problems, contact the relevant supervisors in time. To perform RF optimization on a cluster, first record all suggested operations in the Change Request (CR). You can start optimization upon approval of the CR by the internal supervisor and then the customer. For the CR template, see the attachment in the G-Radio Network Initial Tuning Service Delivery Guide
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RF Optimization Verification
7.1 Data Collection After RF Optimization

Verify RF optimization after performing optimization operations in the CR. See the scope and method of data collection before RF optimization. Note that you should keep the traffic model of data collection in optimization verification consistent with that before optimization. For example, make sure that the DT date is Monday or any other workday before and after optimization, and ensure the same period. Try not to test on a workday and a weekend day before and after optimization. This avoids unexpected results of optimization verification when the traffic model changes.
7.2 Output of RF Optimization Report

You should submit an RF optimization report to the customer in a formal way as a summary and effect presentation. Signature of the customer finishes the RF optimization in a region. Prepare an RF optimization report according to the customer demands for content and scope. Generally, an RF optimization report includes:

Parameter checking Test paths before and after optimization Comparison of DT effects (RxLev, RxQual, and Event) before and after optimization Problem analysis and handling in an optimization region CR records of an optimization region Updated engineering parameter table
In addition, some RF optimization reports involve the comparison of KPIs before and after optimization. For the template of RF optimization report, see the attachment Radio Network Initial Tuning Service Delivery Report Template in the G-Radio Network Initial Tuning Service Delivery Guide.
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Conclusion
This document describes the contents and methods of GSM RF optimization. RF optimization improves the distribution of network signals, providing a radio signal environment suitable for performance optimization. It is mainly based on DT with other complementary test methods. RF optimization analysis involves coverage, interference, handover and other problems. RF optimization solves handover troubles, call drops, and access failure caused by coverage, interference, and handover problems. Before RF optimization, engineers should have fundamental planning knowledge, including preplanning and detailed planning (frequency planning, capacity planning, LAC planning, and neighbor planning), and solid understanding of reselection, handover and power control algorithms. RF optimization focuses on the adjustment of engineering parameters. Adjust cell parameters (except for list of neighbor cells) during parameter optimization. Therefore, it is very important to maintain an updated engineering parameter table, because accuracy of the table directly influences the result of RF optimization. Frequency scanning and related data analysis are usually sidelined during 2G RF optimization. However, background analysis tools such as Actix Spotlight can perform analysis based on the frequency scanning data. For example, such tools can help optimize neighbor relations and cross-area coverage, and diagnose network interference. These contents should be complemented to this guide in future. Seen from the discussion in Chapter 5, you can make adjustment proposals in a scientific manner through emulation software if establishing a relation between actual RF environment and emulation forecast result. Nevertheless, a scientific method has not been formed to establish a relation between DT result and forecast result. Establishing such a relation depends on an integration of forecast platform with data analysis platform. These contents need further study. This document focuses on the analysis idea of GSM RF problems in the first version. It tries to associate analysis methods with background analysis software, planning software and optimization software. RF optimization will be further automated with the development of network optimization tools. Due to time and ability constraints, errors may be found in this document. Please do not hesitate to correct them.
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9
9.1 Approaches to Tuning a Downtilt Angle
1. Tool Emulation
Appendix
Coverage distance is related to the downtilt angle of an antenna. A key point during RF optimization is to define the optimal downtilt angle. See the following methods.
If applicable, you can use an emulation tool such as Asset or U-Net to calculate the coverage and determine the optimal downtilt angle. For details, see the relevant guide. The following figure shows a coverage emulation diagram through the Asset.
2. Controlling the Coverage Distance of Upper 3dB of Main Beam

This method uses Catherine's antenna tilt tool to calculate the main beam coverage of a cell. The following figure shows an interface of the tool. You need to specify the antenna height, vertical beam angle (14 degrees generally), downtilt angle, and distance unit ( Meters generally).
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This tool provides a simple basis for coverage adjustment of the cell. It enables you to determine the angle of upper 3dB with the horizon. For example, the antenna height is 27 meters, the downtilt angle is 7 degrees, and the upper 3dB is higher than the horizon. Signals of the cell are vertically transmitted.
When the downtilt angle is increased to 8 degrees, the upper beam can be lowered to the horizon, and the upper 3dB covers a distance of 1,500 meters.
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Therefore, you can control the cross cell signals in an urban area only when remaining the antenna height at 30 meters and the downtilt angle above 8 degrees.
3. Controlling the Level at an Expected Edge

To tune the downtilt angle of a specific antenna, you can rely on the signal level at an expected coverage edge. For example, the receiving level should be lower than -75 dBm at a site 500 meters away. You can tune the antenna according to the level. The actual downtilt angle depends on the on-site measurement.
4. Formula Calculation
Use a simple formula to calculate the downtilt angle when you have no tool available, as shown in Figure 5-23. In the following estimate formula:
acrtag(H / D) / 2
is the downtilt angle, is the vertical half-power angle, H is the antenna height, and D is the
coverage distance. For details about theoretic analysis, see 3 "Analysis and Handling of Overshooting" in section 5.2.2. Note that the downtilt angle must be larger than a half of the vertical half-power angle, and the coverage distance D must be smaller than the distance calculated when without a downtilt angle.
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Product Name GSM RNP Product Version

Confidentiality INTERNAL Total 76 pages

Guide to GSM RF Tuning

Prepared by Reviewed by Reviewed by Approved by

Date Date Date Date

Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.

Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

3 Preparations for RF Optimization ............................................................................................... 14

4 Data Collection ................................................................................................................................. 22

5 RF Evaluation and Optimization ................................................................................................. 26

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6 RF Optimization and Adjustment ............................................................................................... 70 7 RF Optimization Verification ....................................................................................................... 72

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

Guide to GSM RF Optimization

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

Single-site verification phase Initial tuning phase

Cluster optimization phase

The RF optimization in a GSM network generally involves the following aspects:

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

In the preparations phase, you need to perform the following tasks:

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

System Parameters Audit

Drive Test & Data Analysis

RF Analysis Fill up RNP Problem Tracker Tuning Proposal

Issue Change Request to customer and Implementation team(CR)

Customer Approved? Y Tuning Implementation

N Feedback Change Request from Implementation or hardware troubleshooting team

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

2.2 Strategy for RF Optimization

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

Preparations for RF Optimization

3.1 Objective of RF Optimization

95% of Rx_Quality in all the samples 4 CSSR 96%

Call setup success rate

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

Acceptance Contents Call drop rate

Reference Value CDR < 2%

Handover success rate

3.2 Division of Clusters

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

3.2.2 Division Method

Total sites in this project

Commercially used sites

Remote sites Planning sites

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Guide to GSM RF Tuning INTERNAL

Figure 3-2 Example of cluster division