DEMO

How to Use RF Propagation Model Calibration for 4G/5G RAN Planning

Watch this demo and learn why RF Propagation Model Calibration is a critical part of the RAN design and planning process. Topics include an overview of the NETSCOUT calibration process using Dynamic Range Compensation techniques and industry proven modeling libraries.

NETSCOUT’s process for RF propagation model calibration accuracy includes high-quality RF measurement collection and optimization of model parameters to minimize error between the predictions and RF measurements in geography.

Watch this demo and learn why RF Propagation Model Calibration is a critical part of the RAN design and planning process. Topics include an overview of the NETSCOUT calibration process using Dynamic Range Compensation techniques and industry-proven modeling libraries. Also, we examine how the NETSCOUT solution is improving the decision-making process for budget allocation, regulatory compliance, and greenfield deployments.

Calibrated or “tuned” Radio Frequency (RF) propagation models characterize the path loss from a transmitter to any given location. These models are a key requirement for RF planning tools used to design and optimize 5G networks. Inaccuracies in propagation models compromise network planning and optimization activities and result in money and time costs. Accurately modeled path loss predictions avoid unnecessary site builds that do not improve network quality (over-designed networks) or avoid coverage holes that cause unhappy subscribers (under-designed networks). By using calibrated models as a basis for developing a new site plan or optimizing an existing cluster of sites, an RF engineer will be able to determine site settings that accurately model the real world once implemented.

Why is RF Propagation Modeling Important for 5G?

5G will unlock hundreds of new use cases across both the consumer and the enterprise space. However, without proper planning, many network rollouts are likely to fall short in several business and performance metrics. RF propagation modeling provides timely information before service providers commit CapEx to a 5G rollout project and helps them achieve an optimized level of network coverage for every dollar spent on delivering the RF network.

As the FCC, along with other international governing bodies are enabling more spectrum availability for 5G services to meet increasing data demand they are also increasing the carriers’ accountability for utilizing the spectrum more efficiently. As a result, there is a demand for more accurate reporting of coverage and throughput.

Radio Access Networks are also becoming more complex, making prediction accuracy even more important. This complexity is met with improved imaging technologies capable of rendering higher quality Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data further providing an opportunity to improve upon RF propagation model accuracy.