Introduction: LTE network needs not only good RSRP levels, but also high Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR). If PCI is not planned well, it will cause high interruption of the Reference Signal (RS). This situation may then result in an effective lack of signal coverage. Physical Cell ID (PCI) is one of the most important cell’s identifier in the wireless network of LTE system. Therefore, PCI planning is one of the most important steps in LTE network planning and construction.

Introduction: Spectral efficiency is key to supporting a large subscriber base on limited available spectrum. To maximize the use of spectrum, a mix of footprint optimization or RF shaping is required in conjunction with parameter tuning and feature optimization. Cluster/Area optimization of a LTE and 3G network with macro and oDAS layers requires a complete cell footprint view in order to effectively optimize and maintain performance in a mature wireless network.

Introduction: RF networks have evolved from tower-top and roof-top macro sites to a combination of macro, iDAS/oDAS (indoor/outdoor Distributed Antenna Systems), small cell and hetnets. The prime motivation for this network evolution is for the improvement in network quality demanded by subscribers. The propagation tools used for the initial design of these networks is typically inadequate in modelling and adapting to the evolving networks types deployed.

The use of Single Radio Voice Call Continuity (SRVCC) in early deployments of VoLTE networks is critical to maintaining the current customer expectations of the voice call experience. As LTE networks often lag earlier technology networks in coverage, software reliability and general network optimization, SRVCC is the vital gateway to transparently maintaining the customer experience. Operators will continue to enhance the LTE networks coverage and reliability to the standard of current legacy networks, however the ability to rely on the 3G/2G voice networks for backup is critical.

RF Drivetest is the old backbone of wireless networks. As geolocation and other lower cost tools attempt to replace the drivetest, it may need to visit what type of drivetest and costs are being saved. Rather than focusing on the cost of drivetest, lets focus on how to get the most efficiency out of the drive data collected. This article will focus on these four areas: