LTE Performance Measurement In Trial Network & Validation Of LTE Performance Estimation Models

After GSM(2G) and UMTS(3G), 'Long Term Evolution' (4G) networks are gaining popularity as the latest mobile telecommunication standard. The prospective roll out plans for LTE in The Netherlands emphasize the need for accuracy in the LTE performance optimization and prediction models. The drawback of theoretically based modeling approaches are that they lack knowledge about the performance and practicalities of the LTE radio interface features observed in realistic deployments. In this thesis, the problem is addressed by first measuring the LTE radio performance from a small scale trial network and by later comparing the results with simulations performed for similar usage scenarios. The main features chosen for investigation are the performance impact of activating the MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna technology in the downlink and the closed loop and open loop power control schemes in the uplink. The measurements were performed on a 10 MHz spectrum with the available two operational frequency bands (800 MHz and 1800 MHz). On each measurement day the settings are configured at the base stations. The indoor tests are done inside the office building and for the outdoor tests, we drive around in a car along the pre-defined drive routes with the user equipment. Various tools are used to log data at the network side and for each user in the test environment. The simulations are performed on a centralized server with ten replications for each test case with settings the same as that of the measurement plan. Results are averaged at the end to increase the statistical reliability. After post processing measured and simulated performance results, based on the analysis, we draw conclusions and give recommendations are given to improve the existing LTE models/simulators. iv Preface As a child, I have always wondered at the tremendous innovations in the telecom sector, the advent of smartphones and tablets carrying information and entertainment at our finger tips. Past 9 months of my work at TNO was a great learning opportunity to gain practical knowledge of the LTE networks which boosts high speed connectivity and instant video on demand. I am excited of having successfully completed my thesis. At this juncture, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my supervisor Dr. Ljupco Jorguseski who patiently took me into the research team and provided me with valuable ideas and approaches for my work. I want to extend special thanks to Prof. Rob Kooij who supervised me …