If you work with 4G networks, you know how important it is to test them after maintenance. Whether you are upgrading, repairing, or optimizing your network, you need to ensure that it meets the performance and quality standards expected by your customers and regulators. In this article, we will show you how you can test 4G networks after maintenance using some common tools and methods.
Before you start testing your 4G network, you need to check the basics. This means verifying that the network elements, such as base stations, antennas, and backhaul links, are properly configured, connected, and powered. You also need to check that the network parameters, such as frequency, bandwidth, and modulation, are set correctly and match the specifications. You can use a network management system (NMS) or a base station tester to perform these checks remotely or on-site.
making calls, sending texts, browsing the web, and running speed tests on your phone to ensure everything's running smoothly.
Before you start you need a copy of the design, a plan to execute the testing, One "experienced engineer, and a qualified technician. Document before and after the system's actual performance, RF metrics, and parameters. Please perform a pre-commission check to make sure the correct connectivity.
One of the key aspects of testing 4G networks after maintenance is measuring the coverage. Coverage refers to the area where your network can provide a reliable and consistent signal to your users. You need to measure the coverage to ensure that your network can reach your target locations and customers, and that there are no gaps or overlaps in your service area. You can use a drive test tool or a walk test tool to measure the coverage by collecting and analyzing data from your mobile devices as you move around your network.
Measure The coverage must come with a testing plan. We need the right RF testing tools in order to perform Data Collection on the site. NEMO for data collection Uplink and Downlink Testing: Uplink and downlink testing measures the speed and reliability of data transmission in both directions. Handoff Testing: Handoff testing ensures that devices seamlessly switch between cell towers as they move through the network. We can confirm is the sectorization is correct.
Another important aspect of testing 4G networks after maintenance is testing the throughput. Throughput refers to the amount of data that your network can transfer per unit of time. You need to test the throughput to ensure that your network can deliver the speed and capacity that your users demand, and that there are no bottlenecks or congestion in your network. You can use a speed test tool or a load test tool to test the throughput by generating and measuring data traffic from your network.
As per the design, define your goals and objectives before the test Use the LTE Throughput Analyzer app to perform PDSCH demodulation performance testing. TS 36.101 [1], Annex A.3 specifies RMCs for UE performance testing. add a finale coordinating an "OCNS" with the carrier.
The final aspect of testing 4G networks after maintenance is evaluating the quality. Quality refers to the performance and reliability of your network in terms of user experience and satisfaction. You need to evaluate the quality to ensure that your network can provide a clear and smooth service to your users, and that there are no errors or interruptions in your network. You can use a quality of service (QoS) tool or a quality of experience (QoE) tool to evaluate the quality by monitoring and assessing key indicators, such as signal strength, latency, jitter, and packet loss.
Voice and data quality testing involves making voice calls and sending data traffic to evaluate the quality of these services. RSRP higher than -100dBm is decent, RSRP higher than -85dBm is pretty good, RSRP higher than -70dBm is excellent and RSRP higher than -50dBm is excessive (and might overwhelm receiver). RSRQ below -8dB is bad, anything between -5dB and -8dB is good, and above -5dB is great.
After you have completed testing your 4G network, you need to report the results. Reporting the results means documenting and communicating your findings and recommendations to your stakeholders, such as managers, customers, and regulators. You need to report the results to show that your network meets the expected standards and complies with the relevant regulations, and to identify any issues or opportunities for improvement in your network. You can use a report generator tool or a dashboard tool to report the results by creating and presenting graphs, charts, tables, and maps that summarize and visualize your data.
I use the 5 Steps Commissioning Work Book in order to communicate all passing RF measurement results to the administrators and carrier.