Measurement Based: 4G and 5G networks Analysis

Abstract

The advancement of communications services requires the adoption of advanced technologies and the deployment of next generation networks. Nowadays, the Long-Term Evolution (LTE) standard is widely used. Conversely, an increasing number of mobile network operators (MNOs) are integrating the new fifth generation (5G) radio standard into their networks. This facilitates enhanced throughput, spectral and power efficiency and extended coverage, along with minimizing latency. The effectiveness of these developments is evaluated by evaluating the Quality of Service (QoS) in mobile networks. This study describes LTE-4G and NR-5G data measurements and key performance indicator (KPI) analysis based on information collected through a test drive (DT) process for two operators in Austria. Data measurements specifically target parameters that affect network strength and quality, including reference signal received power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), signal-to-interference-noise ratio (SINR), and received signal strength index (RSSI). And downlink - uplink data transfer rate (DL/UL throughput). Analysis of these parameters may reveal the presence of some errors when collecting data from the mobile phone network, such as errors from DT devices, errors from the network itself, errors due to weather conditions, geographical errors, etc. Identify areas of vulnerability for specialized attention to address network errors and maintain them to increase data accuracy and improve quality of services. Ultimately, analyzing KPIs and detecting errors within the collected data provides a simplified approach to managing and monitoring mobile network performance, reducing complexity, maintenance time and costs, thus enhancing customer satisfaction.