GSM Overview

An introduction to GSM

Star Link.
… for smart support

Date: 13 December, 2023

 GSM Definition :

GSM Definition:
GSM stands for "Global System for Mobile Communications." It is a standard developed to ensure a
common global mobile telephone system by specifying the protocols for second-generation (2G) digital
cellular networks. The GSM standard was first proposed by the Groupe Special Mobile (hence the
acronym GSM) in 1982, and it has become the most widely used mobile communication system in the
world.
Key features and components of the GSM system include:
1.Frequency Band: GSM operates in various frequency bands, including the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz
bands in Europe and Asia, as well as the 850 MHz and 1900 MHz bands in North America. This allows
for global compatibility and roaming.
2.Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA): GSM uses TDMA as its multiple access scheme, dividing
the frequency into time slots to allow multiple users to share the same frequency without interference.
3.SIM Card (Subscriber Identity Module): GSM introduced the use of SIM cards, small removable
cards that contain subscriber information, including the user's identity and contact details. This allows
users to easily switch devices while keeping their phone number and subscription information.
4.International Roaming: One of the key advantages of GSM is its international roaming capability,
allowing users to use their mobile devices in different countries with compatible GSM networks.
GSM laid the foundation for subsequent mobile communication technologies, including the evolution to
third-generation (3G) and fourth-generation (4G) networks. It played a crucial role in establishing a
standardized and interoperable global mobile communication system.
 GSM Network:

A GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) network is a type of mobile network
infrastructure that follows the GSM standard. GSM is a second-generation (2G) mobile communication
technology that set the foundation for digital cellular networks. GSM networks consist of various
components and subsystems working together to provide voice and data communication services to
mobile devices. Here are the key elements of a GSM network:
1.Base Station Subsystem (BSS):
1. Base Transceiver Station (BTS): The BTS is responsible for the radio communication with
mobile devices within its coverage area. It handles the transmission and reception of voice and
data.
2. Base Station Controller (BSC): The BSC manages and controls multiple BTS units. It
handles tasks such as handovers, frequency hopping, and power level control.
2.Network Switching Subsystem (NSS):
1. Mobile Switching Center (MSC): The MSC is the central component responsible for call
routing, handovers, and connection to other telephone networks.
2. Visitor Location Register (VLR): The VLR stores information about subscribers currently
within the coverage area of the MSC. It helps in call setup and subscriber management.
3. Home Location Register (HLR): The HLR is a database that stores subscriber information,
including user profiles, subscription details, and current locations. It is a centralized database
shared by the entire network.
3.Operation and Maintenance Center (OMC):
1. The OMC is responsible for the management, monitoring, and maintenance of the entire GSM
network. It helps operators control and optimize network performance.
 GSM Network :

1.Authentication Center (AUC):

1. The AUC is responsible for verifying the identity of mobile subscribers. It authenticates users to
prevent fraudulent access and ensures secure communication.
2.Equipment Identity Register (EIR):
1. The EIR is a database that stores information about mobile devices, including their IMEI
(International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers. It helps track stolen or unauthorized
devices.
3.Short Message Service Center (SMSC):
1. The SMSC handles the storage, forwarding, and delivery of SMS (Short Message Service)
messages between mobile devices.
4.Gateway Mobile Switching Center (GMSC):
1. The GMSC connects the GSM network to other networks, such as the Public Switched
Telephone Network (PSTN) or other mobile networks, to enable inter-network communication.

These components work together to provide seamless voice and data communication services to mobile
subscribers within the coverage area of the GSM network. The standardized nature of GSM has allowed
for global interoperability and international roaming capabilities.
GSM Network :
 DT KPIs:

RxLev (Received Signal Level):

Measures the signal strength received by the mobile device. It helps identify areas with weak or strong
signal levels.
1.Excellent Signal Strength:
1. RxLev > -70 dBm
2.Good Signal Strength:
1. -70 dBm ≥ RxLev > -85 dBm
3.Fair Signal Strength:
1. -85 dBm ≥ RxLev > -100 dBm
4.Weak Signal Strength:
1. -100 dBm ≥ RxLev > -110 dBm
5.Very Weak Signal Strength:
1. RxLev ≤ -110 dBm
RxQual (Received Signal Quality):
Evaluates the quality of the received signal, taking into account factors such as interference and noise. It
provides insight into the clarity of the communication channel.
1. Excellent Signal Quality:
1. RxQual = 0 or 1
2. Good Signal Quality:
1. RxQual = 2 or 3
3. Fair Signal Quality:
1. RxQual = 4 or 5
4. Poor Signal Quality:
1. RxQual = 6
5. Very Poor Signal Quality:
1. RxQual = 7
 DT KPIs:
BCCCH : BCCCH stands for Broadcast Control Channel in GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) networks.
The Broadcast Control Channel is a specific type of control channel used for broadcasting essential system information to
mobile devices within the coverage area of a cell.
Key features and information provided by the BCCCH include:
1.Cell Identity (CI): The CI is a unique identifier assigned to each cell. It allows mobile devices to identify the specific
cell to which they are currently connected.
2.Location Area Identity (LAI): The LAI identifies the location area to which the cell belongs. Location areas are groups
of cells, and knowing the LAI helps mobile devices manage location updates efficiently.
3.Frequency Lists: The BCCCH broadcasts information about the frequency bands and neighboring cells, enabling mobile
devices to perform handovers and maintain connectivity as they move between different cells.
4.Network Operator Information: Information about the network operator, such as the operator's name or identifier, is
typically broadcast on the BCCCH.
5.Network Parameters: Various network parameters, including parameters related to timing synchronization, are
broadcast on the BCCCH.

No of BCCCH in 900: 0 t0 124= 125

No of BCCCH in 1800: 512 to 885=374

MOS: In the context of GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) networks, the term "MOS" typically refers to
the Mean Opinion Score. MOS is a subjective measurement used to evaluate the perceived voice quality in
telecommunications, including mobile voice calls.
The Mean Opinion Score is determined through subjective assessments provided by human listeners who rate the quality of
a communication session on a scale. The scale often ranges from 1 to 5, where:
•1 indicates "Bad" or "Unacceptable" quality.
•5 indicates "Excellent" or "Perfect" quality.
 Hand Over:

In GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), a handover, also known as a handoff, is a process by which a mobile
device's connection is transferred from one base station (or cell) to another without interrupting the ongoing communication.
Handovers are essential for maintaining seamless connectivity as a mobile device moves through different cells, especially in
scenarios where the user is in motion, such as during a phone call or while using data services.
There are several types of handovers in GSM, each serving a specific purpose:

1.Intra-Cell Handover (Soft Handover):

1. Involves transferring a mobile device's connection between different channels within the same cell. This type of
handover is typically used to optimize resource allocation and improve call quality within the same cell.
2.Inter-Cell Handover (Hard Handover):
1. Involves transferring a mobile device's connection from one cell to another. This type of handover is crucial for
maintaining connectivity as the mobile device moves between different cells. It ensures that the user's
communication session is not interrupted during the handover.
3.Intra-BSC Handover:
1. Involves transferring a mobile device's connection between cells that are controlled by the same Base Station
Controller (BSC). This handover type is within the same Mobile Switching Center (MSC) area.
4.Inter-BSC Handover:
1. Involves transferring a mobile device's connection between cells that are controlled by different BSCs but belong
to the same MSC area. The handover occurs between cells that are managed by different BSCs but are still within
the same MSC service area.
5.Inter-MSC Handover:
1. Involves transferring a mobile device's connection between cells that are controlled by different MSCs. This type
of handover is necessary when the mobile device moves into an area served by a different MSC.
The decision to initiate a handover is made based on various parameters, including signal strength, signal quality, and other
network conditions. The Handover process involves coordination between the mobile device, the current serving cell, and
the target cell to ensure a smooth transition.
handovers.
 GSM Interference:
Interference in GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) refers to the presence of unwanted signals or
electromagnetic disturbances that can affect the quality of communication in the network. Interference can arise from
various sources, and its impact can result in degraded voice quality, dropped calls, and reduced data throughput. Here are
some common types of interference in GSM networks:

1.Co-Channel Interference (CCI):

1. CCI occurs when multiple cells in the same frequency band use the same carrier frequency. If the coverage areas
of these cells overlap significantly, mobile devices may experience interference as they move between cells.
2.Adjacent Channel Interference (ACI):
1. ACI occurs when signals from adjacent frequency channels interfere with each other. This interference can be
caused by the use of adjacent frequency bands by different cells.
3.Intermodulation Interference:
1. Intermodulation interference results from non-linearities in the radio frequency (RF) components of transmitters
and receivers. It can generate unwanted signals at frequencies that are multiples or combinations of the original
signals, causing interference.
4.External Interference:
1. Sources of external interference, such as electronic devices, power lines, or other radio frequency (RF) emitters,
can introduce unwanted signals into the GSM frequency bands.
5.Multipath Interference:
1. Multipath interference occurs when radio signals take multiple paths to reach the receiver, leading to signal
reflections and phase differences. This phenomenon can result in signal fading and reduced signal quality.
6.Cross-Border Interference:
1. In border areas or locations close to international borders, signals from neighboring countries' GSM networks can
cause interference.
 GSM Key Performance Indicators:

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in the context of a GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications)
network refer to measurable parameters that help assess the performance and efficiency of the network.
Monitoring these indicators is crucial for maintaining the quality of service and ensuring a positive user
experience. Here are some common GSM KPIs:

1.Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR):

1. Measures the percentage of successful call setups compared to the total attempted call setups. A
high CSSR indicates a reliable network for call establishment.
2.Call Drop Rate (CDR):
1. Represents the percentage of calls dropped prematurely compared to the total number of
completed calls. A lower CDR is desirable for network reliability.
3.Handover Success Rate (HOSR):
1. Indicates the percentage of successful handovers compared to the total attempted handovers.
Handovers are crucial for maintaining a call's continuity while a mobile device moves between
different cells.
4.Blocking Rate:
1. Measures the percentage of blocked call attempts due to insufficient network resources. A lower
blocking rate is preferable for providing good service availability.
5.Drop Call Rate (DCR):
1. Similar to CDR, DCR measures the percentage of dropped calls but may include calls dropped at
any stage, not just after connection establishment.
 GSM Key Performance Indicators:

1.Network Availability:
1. Represents the percentage of time the network is available and operational. High network
availability is essential for providing continuous service.
2.Average Signal Strength:
1. Measures the average signal strength experienced by mobile devices within a specific area.
This indicator can help identify areas with weak coverage.
3.Call Setup Time:
1. Represents the time taken to set up a call, from initiation to connection. A shorter call setup
time is generally preferable for user satisfaction.
4.Call Quality Metrics (MOS - Mean Opinion Score):
1. MOS provides a subjective measure of the perceived voice quality in phone calls. It is based on
user feedback and can help assess the overall quality of service.
5.Traffic Volume:
1. Measures the volume of voice and data traffic on the network. Monitoring traffic volume helps
in capacity planning and network optimization.
6.Handover Failure Rate:
1. Indicates the percentage of handovers that were unsuccessful. A high handover failure rate may
lead to dropped calls during handover procedures.
7.Data Throughput:
1. Measures the speed and efficiency of data transfer over the network. It is crucial for assessing
the performance of data services in GSM networks.
Monitoring these KPIs allows network operators to identify areas for improvement, optimize network
performance, and enhance the overall user experience on the GSM network.
 GSM discontinuous transmission:

The term "GSM discontinuous transmission" refers to a power-saving feature in GSM (Global System for
Mobile Communications) networks. The feature is commonly known as Discontinuous Transmission (DTX).
DTX is implemented to reduce power consumption in mobile devices during voice calls by discontinuing the
transmission of speech when there is silence or no speech activity.
Here's how GSM DTX works:
1.Voice Activity Detection (VAD): The mobile device continuously monitors the audio input to determine
whether there is speech activity or silence during a call. This process is known as Voice Activity Detection
(VAD).
2.Transmission During Speech Activity: When the user is speaking, the mobile device transmits the speech
data as usual.
3.Discontinuous Transmission during Silence: During periods of silence or when no speech activity is
detected, the mobile device informs the network that it can temporarily stop transmitting. The network then
discontinues the transmission of the speech-related data.
4.Power Savings: By discontinuing transmission during periods of silence, DTX helps conserve battery
power in mobile devices and reduces overall network traffic.
The implementation of DTX is transparent to the users, and the interruption in transmission during silent
periods is typically not noticeable. This feature is especially beneficial for conserving battery life, as it
reduces the need for continuous transmission when there is no meaningful audio to transmit.
DTX is just one of the many features implemented in GSM networks to optimize resource usage and improve
overall efficiency. It's important to note that newer generations of mobile networks, such as 3G (UMTS) and
4G (LTE), also incorporate similar power-saving features to enhance the overall user experience and extend
battery life in mobile devices.
 Sector Swap Concept:

In GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) networks, a "sector swap" refers to a process where a
mobile device transitions its connection from one sector (cell sector) to another within the same cell site. A
cell site typically consists of multiple sectors, each covering a specific portion of the cell's overall coverage
area. The process of sector swapping is a type of handover (handoff) that occurs within the same cell.
Here's how a sector swap generally works:
1.Cell with Multiple Sectors: A cell site is divided into multiple sectors, each served by a directional
antenna. Each sector covers a specific angular portion of the cell's coverage area.
2.Mobile Device Movement: As a mobile device moves within the cell, it may cross the boundary between
different sectors within the same cell site.
3.Sector Measurement: The mobile device continually measures the signal strength and quality from the
surrounding sectors. This information helps the device and the network determine the optimal sector for
maintaining the connection.
4.Sector Swap Decision: When the mobile device determines that a different sector within the same cell
provides a stronger or better quality signal, it initiates a sector swap.
 Some Basic Issues:
Coverage Related Issue: Mobile network coverage issues can arise due to various factors. Here are some
common causes of mobile network coverage problems:

1.Distance from Cell Tower: The distance between your mobile device and the nearest cell tower affects
signal strength. If you are located far away from a cell tower or in a remote area with limited infrastructure,
the signal may weaken, resulting in poor coverage.

2.Obstructions: Physical obstructions such as buildings, hills, mountains, or dense vegetation can block or
attenuate the mobile signal. These obstructions can interfere with signal propagation, leading to weak or no
coverage in certain areas.

3.Network Congestion: During peak usage times or in densely populated areas, the mobile network may
experience high demand, causing congestion. Network congestion can result in reduced signal quality, slow
data speeds, and difficulty establishing connections.

4.Indoor Coverage Challenges: Buildings with thick walls, metal structures, or energy-efficient materials can
hinder mobile signal penetration. This can lead to weaker coverage inside buildings, especially in basements
or lower floors.

5.Interference: Interference from other electronic devices can disrupt the mobile signal. Nearby electronic
equipment, power lines, or even household appliances can emit electromagnetic signals that interfere with
mobile network signals, affecting coverage.
 Some Basic Issues:

6. Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, thunderstorms, or dense fog can
weaken or disrupt mobile signals. Rainwater and atmospheric conditions can absorb or scatter radio
waves, leading to coverage issues.
7. Network Infrastructure Issues: Problems with the mobile network infrastructure, such as damaged or
misaligned antennas, faulty base stations, or technical glitches, can result in coverage problems. Network
providers continuously work to maintain and upgrade their infrastructure, but occasional issues can still
occur.
8. Carrier Limitations: Different mobile network providers have varying coverage footprints. Some providers
may have better infrastructure and coverage in certain areas compared to others. If you are experiencing
coverage issues, it could be related to the limitations of your specific carrier.
9. Geographical Challenges: Remote or geographically challenging areas, such as mountains, valleys, or rural
regions, may have limited mobile network infrastructure, leading to poor coverage or dead zones.
10. Device or SIM Card Issues: In some cases, coverage issues may stem from device-related problems.
Outdated or incompatible devices, faulty SIM cards, or issues with the device's antenna or software can
impact signal reception and coverage.
It's important to note that mobile network coverage is dependent on a combination of factors, including
the network provider's infrastructure, geographical location, and environmental conditions. If you
encounter persistent coverage problems, contacting your mobile network provider's customer support can
help in troubleshooting and resolving the issue.
 Some Basic Issues:

Quality Level issue

Mobile network quality issues can stem from various factors. Here are some common causes of mobile
network quality problems:

1. Network Congestion: During peak usage times or in densely populated areas, the mobile network may
become congested. When too many users are simultaneously accessing the network, it can result in
reduced data speeds, dropped calls, and overall degraded network quality.
2. Signal Interference: Interference from other electronic devices or neighboring networks operating on the
same frequency can disrupt the mobile signal. This interference can cause signal degradation, dropped
calls, and poor data transmission quality.
3. Distance from Cell Tower: The proximity to the nearest cell tower impacts signal strength and quality. If
you are located far away from a cell tower or in a remote area with limited infrastructure, you may
experience weaker signal reception and lower network quality.
4. Physical Obstructions: Buildings, walls, trees, and other physical obstructions can block or attenuate the
mobile signal. These obstacles can hinder signal propagation and result in weaker signal strength and
reduced network quality, especially indoors.
5. Network Infrastructure Issues: Problems with the mobile network infrastructure, such as overloaded
base stations, faulty equipment, or inadequate maintenance, can lead to network quality issues. Technical
glitches or insufficient network capacity can cause call drops, slow data speeds, and unreliable
connectivity.
 Some Basic Issues:

6. Weather Conditions: Severe weather conditions like heavy rain, thunderstorms, or strong winds can
affect mobile network quality. Rainwater, strong winds, or atmospheric disturbances can interfere with
signal propagation, leading to degraded network performance.
7. Device Issues: Mobile network quality problems can also be attributed to issues with the mobile
device itself. Outdated software, hardware limitations, or software glitches can impact the performance
and connectivity of the device, leading to a lower perceived network quality.
8. Network Handover: When moving between different cell towers or network areas, the mobile device
undergoes a process called network handover. If the handover process is not seamless or optimized, it
can lead to call drops or disruptions in data transmission, affecting network quality.
9. Geographical Challenges: Remote or geographically challenging areas, such as mountains, valleys, or
rural regions, may have limited mobile network infrastructure. Sparse network coverage in these areas
can result in poor network quality or dead zones.

It's important to note that mobile network quality can be impacted by a combination of these factors.
Resolving network quality issues often requires a combination of network infrastructure improvements,
optimized device settings, and sometimes switching to a different network provider that offers better
coverage and network quality in your area.
 Some Basic Issues:

Throughput Issue:

Mobile network throughput issues refer to situations where the data transfer speeds or the rate at which data
is transmitted over a mobile network are lower than expected. To address mobile network throughput issues,
consider the following suggestions:
1.Check Signal Strength: Poor signal strength can impact network throughput. Ensure that you have a strong
and stable signal by moving to an area with better signal reception or positioning yourself near a window or
higher floor where the signal is stronger.
2.Network Congestion: Network congestion can significantly affect throughput, especially during peak
usage hours. If you experience slow data speeds, it could be due to heavy network traffic. Try using the
network during off-peak hours or in less crowded areas to improve throughput.
3.Check Bad Quality: most of the time bad quality impacted the throughput. Improving the bad quality
throughput may increase
4.Network Interference: Network interference may degraded throughput also. For better throughput
performance need to avoid network interference.

It's important to note that network throughput can be affected by various factors, including network
conditions, device capabilities, and geographical location.
 Some Basic Issues:

Call Drop Issue:

There can be several causes of call drops in a mobile network. Here are some common causes:
1.Poor Signal Strength: Weak signal reception is one of the primary causes of call drops. When the signal strength
falls below a certain threshold, the call may disconnect. This can happen due to distance from the cell tower,
obstacles like buildings or trees blocking the signal, or being in an area with weak network coverage.
2.Network Congestion: High network congestion occurs when there is an excessive number of users accessing the
network simultaneously. In such situations, the network may struggle to handle the call volume, leading to call drops
as the system prioritizes other connections or reaches its capacity limits.
3.Handover Failures: Handover is the process of transferring an ongoing call from one cell tower to another as you
move across network coverage areas. If the handover process fails or experiences interruptions, it can result in a call
drop.
4.Interference: Signal interference from external sources can disrupt the call and cause drops. Interference can be
caused by electronic devices, power lines, radio frequency interference, or even environmental factors like weather
conditions.
5.Neighbor missing: Due to neighbor missing HO is failure. It may causes drop call.
6.Network Equipment or Software Issues: Malfunctioning network equipment or software glitches within the mobile
network infrastructure can lead to call drops. This can occur due to technical issues, software bugs, or hardware
failures.
7.Device or SIM Card Problems: Occasionally, call drops can be attributed to issues with the mobile device or the
SIM card. Faulty hardware, software conflicts, or problems with the SIM card can cause disruptions in call
connectivity.
8.Call Routing Errors: Incorrect call routing or routing failures within the mobile network can result in call drops.
This can happen when the call is being transferred between different network components or when there are issues in
the call routing algorithms.
 Some Basic Issues:

HO failure issue:
In a cellular network, handover failure refers to a situation where the process of transferring an ongoing call
or data session from one cell (base station) to another fails or experiences interruptions. Handover, also
known as handoff or handoff, is a crucial mechanism that allows a mobile device to maintain connectivity as
it moves between different cells or technologies within the network. When a handover failure occurs, the
ongoing call or data session may be disrupted, leading to call drops, decreased call quality, or interrupted data
transmission.
There are several reasons for handover failures in a cellular network:
1.Signal Quality Issues: Handover failures can occur when the signal quality of the target cell is lower than
the source cell. If the target cell has a weaker signal, higher interference, or poor quality, the handover may
fail as the network determines it to be an unsuitable candidate for seamless transition.
2.Insufficient Signal Strength: Handover requires an adequate signal strength in both the source and target
cells. If the signal strength in either cell falls below the minimum threshold during the handover process, the
handover can fail.
3.Incorrect Neighbor Cell Configuration: Each cell in a cellular network maintains a list of neighboring cells
to facilitate handovers. If the neighbor cell configuration is incorrect or outdated, the network may attempt
handovers to cells that are not suitable or available, resulting in handover failures.
4.Network Congestion: High network congestion or excessive traffic load can impede the handover process.
If the network is overloaded and cannot allocate sufficient resources for handover, it can lead to handover
failures.
 Some Basic Issues:

5. Incompatible Technologies or Frequencies: Handover between different network technologies (e.g., 4G to

3G) or frequencies requires compatibility and support from both the mobile device and the network
infrastructure. Incompatibilities or limitations in device or network support can cause handover failures.
6. Interference or Noise: Interference from external sources or noise within the network can disrupt the
handover process and result in failures. Interference can be caused by neighboring cells, other wireless
devices, or environmental factors.
7. Timing or Synchronization Issues: Handovers rely on precise timing and synchronization between different
cells and network components. Timing errors or synchronization issues can lead to handover failures.
8. Network Configuration or Software Errors: Incorrect network configurations, software bugs, or glitches
within the network infrastructure can cause handover failures. Configuration errors in handover parameters or
software issues can result in unsuccessful handovers.
 Drive Test Procedure:
Over all DT procedure:

A drive test is a procedure conducted in a cellular network to assess the performance and quality of the network's coverage,
signal strength, call quality, data throughput, and other key parameters. It involves driving a test vehicle equipped with
specialized measurement equipment, such as a mobile test device or scanner, to collect data while moving through various
areas within the network coverage.
Here is a general overview of the drive test procedure in a cellular network:

1. Test Vehicle Preparation: Prepare the test vehicle by installing the measurement equipment, including the mobile test
device or scanner, antennas, GPS receiver, and power supply. Ensure that the equipment is calibrated and functioning
properly.
2. Test Plan Development: Define the objectives and parameters to be measured during the drive test. This may include
coverage analysis, signal strength measurement, call setup success rate, handover performance, data throughput, and other
relevant metrics. Plan the route to cover different areas, including urban, suburban, and rural locations, as well as areas
with known network issues.
3. Data Collection Setup: Configure the measurement equipment to collect the desired data parameters. This may involve
setting the scanning frequency, measurement intervals, and other relevant settings based on the test plan.
4. Drive Test Execution: Drive the test vehicle along the planned route, ensuring that the vehicle maintains a steady speed
and follows the designated path. The measurement equipment continuously collects data, including signal strength, signal
quality, handover events, call success rate, data throughput, and other relevant metrics.
5. Data Validation and Analysis: After completing the drive test, validate the collected data for accuracy and completeness.
Remove any outliers or invalid data points. Analyze the collected data using specialized software or tools to generate
reports and visualize the network performance.
6. Performance Evaluation and Optimization: Evaluate the performance of the cellular network based on the collected data
and analysis. Identify areas of improvement, such as coverage gaps, signal degradation, call drops, or data throughput
issues. Use the insights from the drive test to optimize network planning, infrastructure deployment, antenna placement,
frequency allocation, or parameter tuning.
 Drive Test Procedure:
7. Reporting and Documentation: Prepare comprehensive reports summarizing the drive test results, including key
findings, performance metrics, and recommendations for network optimization. Document the test procedures, equipment
used, route details, and any specific observations or issues encountered during the drive test.
8. Follow-Up Actions: Share the drive test findings and recommendations with the relevant stakeholders, such as network
operators, engineers, and planning teams. Discuss the identified issues and plan appropriate actions for network
optimization, expansion, or troubleshooting based on the drive test results.

Drive tests play a vital role in assessing and improving the performance and quality of cellular networks. They provide
valuable insights into the network's coverage, signal strength, call quality, data throughput, and other important parameters,
helping network operators optimize their infrastructure and enhance the overall user experience.
 Drive Test Procedure:

RF drive test/testing basics

This page describes RF drive test/testing and provide link to RF drive test/testing tools.

Basics of RF drive test/testing

RF Drive test/testing is the procedure to evaluate performance of wireless modem/system while driving(or
in motion).
The wireless modem or system may include any wireless standards such as GSM, WCDMA, HSPA, UMTS,
LTE, WIMAX, WLAN etc. It helps perform various measurements as listed below.
 RF Drive test measurements:

RF Drive test measurements

RF drive test measurements may include but not limited to following.

-Dropped call
-handover with same Radio Access Technology(RAT) for example GSM.
-Handover between two RATs, for example between GSM and WCDMA.
-verification of different call quality levels by changing different parameters.
-RF Signal strength measurement.
-sector swapping either full Swap or partial Swap
-Edge and GPRS testing with short and long PS call.
-Short and long duration CS call.
-Idle and connected mode tests.
-Checking RLC throughput as per system requirement/limit.
 Drive Test Procedure:

RF Drive test planning

For RF drive testing particular route and proper SIM with multiple or single RAT support is required
(common RATs are GSM,WCDMA,LTE) . GPS support is needed in the setup for finding the route of the RF
drive test/testing.

RF Drive test typical set up

RF drive test or testing setup
As shown in the figure, UE(User Equipment) with Antenna is connected with Laptop having RF drive test
software. GPS feature should be incorporated to support in driving as per planned proper route. External
harddisk is used to store huge amount of data for long duration tests to avoid crash.
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