LTE Tutorials (TELCOM HUB)

What is LTE: LTE (Long Term Evolution) is initiated by 3GPP to improve the mobile phone
standard to cope with future technology evolutions and needs.
LTE Speed: LTE provides downlink peak rates of at least 100Mbit/s, 50 Mbit/s in the uplink and
RAN (Radio Access Network) round-trip times of less than 10 ms.

LTE Basics and Overview

What is LTE?

LTE (Long Term Evolution) is initiated by 3GPP to improve the mobile phone standard to cope
with future technology evolutions and needs.

What is goal of LTE?

The goals for LTE include improving spectral efficiency, lowering costs, improving services,
making use of new spectrum and reformed spectrum opportunities, and better integration with
other open standards.

What speed LTE offers?

LTE provides downlink peak rates of at least 100Mbit/s, 50 Mbit/s in the uplink and RAN (Radio
Access Network) round-trip times of less than 10 m

What is LTE Advanced?

LTE standards are in matured state now with release 8 frozen. While LTE Advanced is still under
works. Often the LTE standard is seen as 4G standard which is not true. 3.9G is more acceptable for
LTE. So why it is not 4G? Answer is quite simple - LTE does not fulfill all requirements of ITU 4G
definition.

Brief History of LTE Advanced: The ITU has introduced the term IMT Advanced to identify mobile
systems whose capabilities go beyond those of IMT 2000. The IMT Advanced systems shall provide
best-in-class performance attributes such as peak and sustained data rates and corresponding
spectral efficiencies, capacity, latency, overall network complexity and quality-of-service
management. The new capabilities of these IMT-Advanced systems are envisaged to handle a wide
range of supported data rates with target peak data rates of up to approximately 100 Mbit/s for high
mobility and up to approximately 1 Gbit/s for low mobility.

What is LTE architecture?

The evolved architecture comprises E-UTRAN (Evolved UTRAN) on the access side and EPC
(Evolved Packet Core) on the core side.
Detailed explanation of this structure:

The fourth generation networks of to are from a group of elements divided into two parts of the a, (or
short), and it is responsible for the operations of the operations that are connected to radio like,
demodulation, scheduling and others. New in the fourth generation that enb (previously named BTS
and later her name node b) they are tied to each other directly compared to previous networks there
was a device named CLT OR RNC (according to the generation) to link bts and perform some
operations
The second part is core and this is bitcoin from a group of devices for each one of them a group of
jobs
serving gateway S-GW

 Packet Gateway P-GW

 Mobile Management Entity MME
 Police and charging rule function PCRF
 Home subscriber server HSS

Posts components of the fourth generation networks LTE:

1. MME: it is responsible for signaling in the network and by which it will create or cancel the
connections between the network and the user organs. It also identified the area in which the organs
of the participants and their her area were located. He is responsible for the process of different
networks. And if the mobile device will accept a call, he will be responsible for sending a message
named paging to the mall so he knows that there is a phone call that she will accept. And also the
part of making sure that the mobile device is responsible and called authentication.

2. Serving Gateway-SGW: this device reaches traffic for eNodeb stations and in turn by selling
traffic to mobile devices.

3. Packet Gateway - PGW: it is the device that reaches core in other networks like internet or other
mobile networks. And also he will be responsible for giving ips to mobile devices. And make traffic to
traffic from and to the network (routing). And possible can do traffic to passes on it.
4. PCRF - Policy and Charging Rule: it is responsible for determining and ensuring the quality of
service for traffic and also determining how participants account.

5.HSS -Home Subscriber Server: the database of the data storage of subscribers in the network.

What is EUTRAN?
The E-UTRAN (Evolved UTRAN) consists of eNBs, providing the E-UTRA user plane
(PDCP/RLC/MAC/PHY) and control plane (RRC) protocol terminations towards the UE. The eNBs
are interconnected with each other by means of the X2 interface. The eNBs are also connected by
means of the S1 interface to the EPC (Evolved Packet Core), more specifically to the MME (Mobility
Management Entity) by means of the S1-MME and to the Serving Gateway (S-GW) by means of the
S1-U.

What are LTE Interfaces?

The following are LTE Interfaces : (Ref: TS 23.401 v 841)

 S1-MME :- Reference point for the control plane protocol between E-UTRAN and MME.
 S1-U:- Reference point between E-UTRAN and Serving GW for the per bearer user plane
tunnelling and inter eNodeB path switching during handover.
 S3:- It enables user and bearer information exchange for inter 3GPP access network mobility
in idle and/or active state.
 S4:- It provides related control and mobility support between GPRS Core and the 3GPP
Anchor function of Serving GW. In addition, if Direct Tunnel is not established, it provides the
user plane tunnelling.
 S5:- It provides user plane tunnelling and tunnel management between Serving GW and
PDN GW. It is used for Serving GW relocation due to UE mobility and if the Serving GW
needs to connect to a non-collocated PDN GW for the required PDN connectivity.
 S6a:- It enables transfer of subscription and authentication data for
authenticating/authorizing user access to the evolved system (AAA interface) between MME
and HSS.
 Gx:- It provides transfer of (QoS) policy and charging rules from PCRF to Policy and
Charging Enforcement Function (PCEF) in the PDN GW.
 S8:- Inter-PLMN reference point providing user and control plane between the Serving GW in
the VPLMN and the PDN GW in the HPLMN. S8 is the inter PLMN variant of S5.
 S9:- It provides transfer of (QoS) policy and charging control information between the Home
PCRF and the Visited PCRF in order to support local breakout function.
 S10:- Reference point between MMEs for MME relocation and MME to MME information
transfer.
 S11:- Reference point between MME and Serving GW.
 S12:- Reference point between UTRAN and Serving GW for user plane tunnelling when
Direct Tunnel is established. It is based on the Iu-u/Gn-u reference point using the GTP-U
protocol as defined between SGSN and UTRAN or respectively between SGSN and GGSN.
Usage of S12 is an operator configuration option.
 S13:- It enables UE identity check procedure between MME and EIR.
 SGi:- It is the reference point between the PDN GW and the packet data network. Packet
data network may be an operator external public or private packet data network or an intra
operator packet data network, e.g. for provision of IMS services. This reference point
corresponds to Gi for 3GPP accesses.
 Rx:- The Rx reference point resides between the AF and the PCRF in the TS 23.203.
  SBc:- Reference point between CBC and MME for warning message delivery and control
functions.

What are LTE Network elements?

eNB
eNB interfaces with the UE and hosts the PHYsical (PHY), Medium Access
Control (MAC), Radio Link Control (RLC), and Packet Data Control
Protocol (PDCP) layers. It also hosts Radio Resource Control (RRC)
functionality corresponding to the control plane. It performs many
functions including radio resource management, admission control,
scheduling, enforcement of negotiated UL QoS, cell information
broadcast, ciphering/deciphering of user and control plane data, and
compression/decompression of DL/UL user plane packet headers.

Mobility Management Entity

manages and stores UE context (for idle state: UE/user identities, UE mobility state, user security
parameters). It generates temporary identities and allocates them to UEs. It checks the authorization
whether the UE may camp on the TA or on the PLMN. It also authenticates the user.

Serving Gateway
The SGW routes and forwards user data packets, while also acting as the mobility anchor for the
user plane during inter-eNB handovers and as the anchor for mobility between LTE and other 3GPP
technologies (terminating S4 interface and relaying the traffic between 2G/3G systems and PDN
GW).

Packet Data Network Gateway

The PDN GW provides connectivity to the UE to external packet data networks by being the point of
exit and entry of traffic for the UE. A UE may have simultaneous connectivity with more than one
PDN GW for accessing multiple PDNs. The PDN GW performs policy enforcement, packet filtering
for each user, charging support, lawful Interception
and packet screening.

What are LTE protocols & specifications?

In LTE architecture, core network includes Mobility Management Entity (MME), Serving Gateway
(SGW), Packet Data Network Gateway (PDN GW) where as E-UTRAN has E-UTRAN NodeB
(eNB).

Protocol links are as below

 Air Interface Physical Layer

 GPRS Tunnelling Protocol User Plane (GTP-U)
 GTP-U Transport
 Medium Access Control (MAC)
 Non-Access-Stratum (NAS) Protocol
 Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP)
 Radio Link Control (RLC)
 Radio Resource Control (RRC)
 S1 Application Protocol (S1AP)
 S1 layer 1
 S1 Signalling Transport
 X2 Application Protocol (X2AP)
 X2 layer 1
 X2 Signalling Transport
What is VoLGA?
VoLGA stands for "Voice over LTE via Generic Access". The VoLGA service resembles the 3GPP
Generic Access Network (GAN). GAN provides a controller node - the GAN controller (GANC) -
inserted between the IP access network (i.e., the EPS) and the 3GPP core network.

The GAN provides an overlay access between the terminal and the CS core without requiring
specific enhancements or support in the network it traverses. This provides a terminal with a 'virtual'
connection to the core network already deployed by an operator. The terminal and network thus
reuse most of the existing mechanisms, deployment and operational aspects.

What is CS Fallback in LTE?

LTE technology supports packet based services only, however 3GPP does specifies fallback for
circuit switched services as well. To achieve this LTE architecture and network nodes require
additional functionality, this blog is an attempt to provide overview for same.

In LTE architecture, the circuit switched (CS) fallback in EPS enables the provisioning of voice and
traditional CS-domain services (e.g. CS UDI video/ SMS/ LCS/ USSD). To provide these services
LTE reuses CS infrastructure when the UE is served by E UTRAN.

How does LTE Security works?

The following are some of the principles of 3GPP E-UTRAN security based on 3GPP Release 8
specifications:

 The keys used for NAS and AS protection shall be dependent on the algorithm with which
they are used.
 The eNB keys are cryptographically separated from the EPC keys used for NAS protection
(making it impossible to use the eNB key to figure out an EPC key).
 The AS (RRC and UP) and NAS keys are derived in the EPC/UE from key material that was
generated by a NAS (EPC/UE) level AKA procedure (KASME) and identified with a key
identifier (KSIASME).
 The eNB key (KeNB) is sent from the EPC to the eNB when the UE is entering ECM-
CONNECTED state (i.e. during RRC connection or S1 context setup).

What is IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS)?

The 3GPP IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) technology provides an architectural framework for
delivering IP based multimedia services. IMS enables telecom service providers to offer a new
generation of rich multimedia services across both circuit switched and packet switched networks.
IMS offers access to IP based services independent of the access network e.g. wireless access
(GPRS, 3GPP’s UMTS, LTE, 3GPP2’s CDMA2000) and fixed networks (TISPAN’s NGN)

IMS defines a architecture of logical elements using SIP for call signaling between network elements
and Provides a layered approach with defined service, control, and transport planes. Some of IMS
high level requirements are noted below:

The application plane provides an infrastructure for the provision and management of services,
subscriber configuration and identity management and defines standard interfaces to common
functionality.

The IMS control plane handles the call related signaling and controls transport plane. Major element
of control plane is the Call Session Control Function (CSCF) , which comprises Proxy-CSCF (P-
CSCF), Interrogating-CSCF (I-CSCF) and Serving-CSCF (S-CSCF). The CSCF (Call/Session
Control Function) is essentially a SIP server.
The IMS transport plane provides a core IP network with access from subscriber device over
wireless or wireline networks.

How does measurements work in LTE?

In LTE E-UTRAN measurements to be performed by a UE for mobility are classified as below

 Intra-frequency E-UTRAN measurements

 Inter-frequency E-UTRAN measurements
 Inter-RAT measurements for UTRAN and GERAN
 Inter-RAT measurements of CDMA2000 HRPD or 1xRTT frequencies

What is Automatic Neighbour Relation?

According to 3GPP specifications, the purpose of the Automatic Neighbour Relation (ANR)
functionality is to relieve the operator from the burden of manually managing Neighbor Relations
(NRs). This feature would operators effort to provision.

How does Intra E-UTRAN Handover is performed?

Intra E-UTRAN Handover is used to hand over a UE from a source eNodeB to a target eNodeB
using X2 when the MME is unchanged. In the scenario described here Serving GW is also
unchanged. The presence of IP connectivity between the Serving GW and the source eNodeB, as
well as between the Serving GW and the target eNodeB is assumed.

The intra E-UTRAN HO in RRC_CONNECTED state is UE assisted NW controlled HO, with HO

preparation signalling in E-UTRAN.

How does policy control and charging works in LTE?

A important component in LTE network is the policy and charging control (PCC) function that brings
together and enhances capabilities from earlier 3GPP releases to deliver dynamic control of policy
and charging on a per subscriber and per IP flow basis.

LTE Evolved Packet Core (EPC) EPC includes a PCC architecture that provides support for fine-
grained QoS and enables application servers to dynamically control the QoS and charging
requirements of the services they deliver. It also provides improved support for roaming. Dynamic
control over QoS and
charging will help operators monetize their LTE investment by providing customers with a variety of
QoS and charging options when choosing a service.

The LTE PCC functions include:

 PCRF (policy and charging rules function) provides policy control and flow based charging
control decisions.
 PCEF (policy and charging enforcement function) implemented in the serving gateway, this
enforces gating and QoS for individual IP flows on the behalf of
 the PCRF. It also provides usage measurement to support charging
 OCS (online charging system) provides credit management and grants credit to the PCEF
based on time, traffic volume or chargeable events.
 OFCS (off-line charging system) receives events from the PCEF and generates charging
data records (CDRs) for the billing system.
Refer following whitepapers for more details.

Introduction to Evolved Packet Core

Policy control and charging for LTE networks
Quality of Service (QoS) and Policy Management in Mobile Data Networks
 What is SON & how does it work in LTE?
Self-configuring, self-optimizing wireless networks is not a new concept but as the mobile networks
are evolving towards 4G LTE networks, introduction of self configuring and self optimizing
mechanisms is needed to minimize operational efforts. A self optimizing function would increase
network performance and quality reacting to dynamic processes in the network.

This would minimize the life cycle cost of running a network by eliminating manual configuration of
equipment at the time of deployment, right through to dynamically optimizing radio network
performance during operation. Ultimately it will reduce the unit cost and retail price of wireless data
services.

See Self-configuring and self-optimizing Networks in LTE for details.

How does Network Sharing works in LTE?

3GPP network sharing architecture allows different core network operators to connect to a shared
radio access network. The operators do not only share the radio network elements, but may also
share the radio resources themselves.

Read Network Sharing in LTE for more.

How does Timing Advance (TA) works in LTE?

In LTE, when UE wish to establish RRC connection with eNB, it transmits a Random Access
Preamble, eNB estimates the transmission timing of the terminal based on this. Now eNB transmits
a Random Access Response which consists of timing advance command, based on that UE adjusts
the terminal transmit timing.

The timing advance is initiated from E-UTRAN with MAC message that implies and adjustment of
the timing advance.

See Timing Advance (TA) in LTE for further details.

How does LTE UE positioning works in E-UTRAN?

UE Positioning function is required to provide the mechanisms to support or assist the calculation of
the geographical position of a UE. UE position knowledge can be used, for example, in support of
Radio Resource Management functions, as well as location-based services for operators,
subscribers, and third-party service providers.

How many operators have committed for LTE?

List of operators committed for LTE has been compiled by 3GAmericas from Informa Telecoms &
Media and public announcements. It includes a variety of commitment levels including intentions to
trial, deploy, migrate, etc.


What is Single Radio Voice Call Continuity (SRVCC)?
Along with LTE introduction, 3GPP also standardized Single Radio Voice Call Continuity (SRVCC) in
Release 8 specifications to provide seamless continuity when an UE handovers from LTE coverage
(E-UTRAN) to UMTS/GSM coverage (UTRAN/GERAN). With SRVCC, calls are anchored in IMS
network while UE is capable of transmitting/receiving on only one of those access networks at a
given time.
How does Location Service (LCS) work in LTE network?
In the LCS architecture, an Evolved SMLC is directly attached to the MME. The objectives of this
evolution is to support location of an IMS emergency call, avoid impacts to a location session due
to an inter-eNodeB handover, make use of an Evolved and support Mobile originated location
request (MO-LR) and mobile terminated location request MT-LR services.

Release 9 LCS solution introduces new interfaces in the EPC:

 SLg between the GMLC and the MME

 SLs between the E-SMLC and the MME
 Diameter-based SLh between the HSS and the HGMLC
 How does Lawful Interception works in LTE Evolved Packet System?
 3GPP Evolved Packet System (EPS) provides IP based services. Hence, EPS is
responsible only for IP layer interception of Content of Communication (CC) data. In addition
to CC data, the Lawful Interception (LI) solution for EPS offers generation of Intercept
Related Information (IRI) records from respective control plane (signalling) messages as
well.
 What is carrier aggregation in LTE-Advanced?
 To meet LTE-Advanced requirements, support of wider transmission bandwidths is required
than the 20 MHz bandwidth specified in 3GPP Release 8/9. The preferred solution to this is
carrier aggregation.
 It is of the most distinct features of 4G LTE-Advanced. Carrier aggregation allows expansion
of effective bandwidth delivered to a user terminal through concurrent utilization of radio
resources across multiple carriers. Multiple component carriers are aggregated to form a
larger overall transmission bandwidth.

 What is Relay Node and how does Relaying works in LTE-Advanced?
 For efficient heterogeneous network planning, 3GPP LTE-Advanced has introduced concept
of Relay Nodes (RNs). The Relay Nodes are low power eNodeBs that provide enhanced
coverage and capacity at cell edges. One of the main benefits of relaying is to provide
extended LTE coverage in targeted areas at low cost.
 The Relay Node is connected to the Donor eNB (DeNB) via radio interface, Un, a modified
version of E-UTRAN air interface Uu. Donor eNB also srves its own UE as usual, in addition
to sharing its radio resources for Relay Nodes.

Physical Control Format Indicator Channel (PCFICH)

Physical Control Format Indicator Channel (PCFICH)
• Since both the PDCCH and PDSCH share the available resources in every subframe (Transmit
Time Interval -TTI of 1ms duration), the number of simultaneous users (a measure of capacity)
who can be served in a cell will be limited by the availability of PDCCH resources.
• PDSCH throughput is inversely proportional to the PDCCH size (or resources). That is, the
smaller the resources reserved for PDCCH the larger the resources available for PDSCH which
means higher throughput is achieved in the TTI.
• Where PDCCH occupies larger resources due to the requirement of higher number of users to
be served which means large capacity. Now, PDSCH is left with lesser resources to carry data
leading to lower throughput. From the above discussion we see that LTE provides us with a

handle to leverage either capacity or throughput every TTI as the scenario may warrant.
 • The key to this kind of leverage is through the use of the PCFICH (Physical Control Format
Indicator Channel). The PCFICH provides the information about the PDCCH resources (number
of OFDMA symbols) in the present TTI or subframe
Unlabelled

FDD frame structure

One frame is 10ms and it consists of 10 sub-frames.
One LTE sub frame is 1ms and contains 2 slots
One slot is 0.5ms in time domain and each 0.5ms assignment can contain
N resource.
One resource block is 0.5ms and contains 12 subcarriers for each OFDM
symbol in frequency domain.
There are 7 symbols (normal cyclic prefix) per time slot in the time
domain or 6 symbols in long cyclic prefix for LTE.
Cyclic prefix is nothing but guard timer. It is used to make successful
receiving of OFDM symbol at receiver side. There are two types cyclic
prefix has been introduced in lte namely "Normal cyclic prefix" and
"Extended cyclic prefix". Usually normal cyclic prefix is sufficient to
suppress the multi-path delay spread. But some places(hilly areas) multi-
path delay is significantly high. So to suppress multi-path delay in hilly
area's extended cyclic prefix is being used.
 Resource Block

eUTRAN Parameters Description and Planning

Basic Cell Parameter: ECGI Planning
 ECGI = PLMN + Cell Identity
o PLMN = MCC + MNC
o Cell Identity = eNodeB ID + Cell ID
 Parameter Description
o ECGI : It indicates the E-UTRAN cell global identifier.
o MCC: It indicates the country code of the mobile subscriber.
o MNC: Its indicates the code of network used by the mobile subscriber.
o Cell Identity: It is of 28 bits. The former 20 bits indicate the eNodeB ID, and the latter 8 bits
indicate the cell ID.

Basic Cell Parameter: ECGI Planning

 1. MCC: It is of 3 bits. Its value ranges from 0 to 999.

2. MNC: It is of 2 bits or 3 bits. Its value ranges from 0 to 999.

3. eNodeB ID: Its value ranges from 0 to 1048575. The eNodeB ID is unique to every
eNodeB in the same PLMN. When you are planning the eNodeB ID, you need to take the
network scale into account. Generally speaking, there is small-sized network, standard-
sized network, large-sized network and shared network.
4. Cell ID: It is unique to every cell in the same eNodeB. Its value ranges from 0 to 255.
Basic Cell Parameter: eNodeB ID
1. Standard-Sized Network

The eNodeB ID appears to be ABCDEF in a standard-sized network.

The first two figures (namely AB) indicate the city where the eNodeB is located.
The last figure (namely F) indicates whether it is an indoor eNodeB or an outdoor eNodeB.
If the last figure appears to be “0”, it is an indoor eNodeB. Otherwise, it is an outdoor
eNodeB.
Large-Sized Network
In most cases, the eNodeB ID appears to be ABCDEF.
The first two figures (namely AB) indicate the city where the eNodeB is located.
Different AB combination indicates different cities. The AB combination can indicate at most
90 cities, each of which can hold 9999 eNodeBs at most. Sometimes, the network may
cover more than 90 cities. In this case, use every AB combination to indicate two or more
than two cities. Each city can hole at most 5000 eNodeBs.
The last figure (namely F) indicates whether it is an indoor eNodeB or an outdoor eNodeB.
If the last figure appears to be “0”, it is an indoor eNodeB. Otherwise, it is an outdoor
eNodeB.
In some special cases, if F appears to be “9”, it is a remote eNodeB.
3. Shared Network If it is a shared network, for example the TDD-FDD network in Hi3G
project, you will use 6-digit eNodeB ID (ABCDEF).
The first figure (namely A) indicates the network schema. “1” stands for the TDD network,
and “5” stands for the FDD network.
The second figure (namely B) indicates the city where the eNodeB is located.
The third figure (namely C) may indicate the administrative region where the eNodeB is
located.
The last figure (namely F) indicates whether it is an indoor eNodeB or an outdoor eNodeB.
If the last figure appears to be “0”, it is an indoor eNodeB. Otherwise, it is an outdoor
eNodeB
Basic Cell Parameter: CP
 CP Selection for Physical Channel
o Parameter Description
o This parameter indications the cyclic prefix(CP) of the OFDM symbol,which is used to
determine the total number of OFDM symbols within one slot. When this parameter is set to
normal cyclic prefix, it implies that seven OFDM symbols are available within one slot.
When this parameter is set to extended cyclic prefix, it implies that six OFDM symbol are
available within one slot.
 Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: enum (normal cyclic prefix, extended cyclic prefix)
o Default Value: normal cyclic prefix
o Configuration Principles
o The cp is dependent on the multipath delay of a radio channel. In the presence of either a
large mutipath delay or a large cell radius, extended cyclic prefix is recommended.
o The extended cyclic prefix option can suppress radio interference caused by multipath
delay, but suffering from lower system capacity, and therefor it is recommended that you set
it to the default value.

Basic Cell Parameter: Bandwidth

 Downlink System Bandwidth
 Parameter Description
o This parameter indicates the system bandwidth in the downlink, which is used to determine
the frequency domain location of the downlink physical channel as well as downlink
frequency allocation.
o Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: enum (6, 15, 25, 50, 75, 100) Unit RB
o Default Value: 100
 Configuration Principles
o This parameter is dependent on the frequency bandwidth acquired by a mobile operator.
The downlink system bandwidth can either be identical to or different from the uplink system
bandwidth.
o Modifying this parameter can have an impact on downlink resource allocation
 Uplink System Bandwidth
 Parameter Description
o This parameter indicates the system bandwidth in the uplink , which is used to determine
the frequency domain location of the uplink physical channel as well as uplink frequency
allocation.
o Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: enum (6, 15, 25, 50, 75, 100) Unit RB
o Default Value: 100
 Configuration Principles
o This parameter is dependent on the frequency bandwidth acquired by a mobile operator.
The system uplink bandwidth can either be identical to or different from the downlink system
bandwidth.
o Modifying this parameter can have an impact on uplink resource allocation
Basic Cell Parameter: Transmit Power
 Cell Max Transmit Power
 lParameter Description
o This parameter specifies the maximum available transmit power.
 Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: float (0, …, 50) step 0.1 Unit dBm
o Default Value: 43
 Configuration Principles
o The default value is intended to be used in the following environment:
 Basic Cell Parameter: Transmit Power
 Cell Transmit Power
 lParameter Description
o This parameter specifies the used transmit power.
 Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: float (0, …, 50) step 0.1 Unit dBm
o Default Value: 43
 Configuration Principles
o For the environment information about the use of the default value, see page 13(Cell Max
Transmit Power).
o This parameter is dependent on the cell radius and the planned downlink throughput at the
cell edge. The greater the cell radius or the planned downlink throughput at the cell edge,
the greater the value of this parameter is required.
 Cell-specific Reference Signals Power
 Parameter Description
o This parameter specifies the absolute power value of the cell reference signal for each
resource element.
 Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: int (-60, …, 50) Unit dBm
o Default Value: 6
 Configuration Principles
o This parameter is dependent on cell coverage. The greater the cell coverage, the greater
the value of this parameter is required. This parameter should be used for ensuring cell
coverage while achieving the maximum power.
o A reference signal power value should be properly tuned in accordance with the required
power of the downlink control channel at the cell edge based on the link estimation
calculated by using such radio parameters as cell type ,cell radius, and antenna height.
Part 2 Tracing Area Planning
Tracing Area Planning : Paging Process
 The idle UE can monitor the paging message by means of discontinuous reception (DRX). It
detects whether the PDCCH carries the P-RNTI on the paging occasion of specified paging
frame. The detection results will tell the UE whether this PDSCH carries paging message.
o a) If the PDCCH carries the P-RNTI, the UE receives the data from the PDSCH based on
the PDSCH parameters.
o b) If the PDCCH does not carry the P-RNTI, the UE changes into the dormant status.
 Within a DRX period, the UE can receive the PDCCH data when the paging occasion
appears, and then receive the PDSCH data based on the actual requirements.
 As specified by the LTE physical layer protocol, the radio frame No. repetition period is
1024. Every radio frame is divided into ten sub-frames. In this regard, if the UE wants to
know the accurate location of the PDCCH to be monitored, it needs to work out the radio
frame No. for this PDCCH, and then work out the paging occasion (PO) for this radio frame
number.
Tracing Area Planning : Paging Parameters
 DRX Cycle for Paging
 Parameter description
o This parameter specifies the DRX cycle for paging purposes.
 Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: enum (32, 64, 128, 256) Unit; subframe
o Default Value:128
 Configuration Principles
o When the UE is in idle state but the DRX is being used, the UE needs to monitor a P-RNTI
in a paging occasion every DRX cycle.
o Modifying this parameter can have an impact on other UEs being in idle state.
 nB used to derive the Paging Frame and Paging Occasion
 Parameter description
o nB is used to derive the paging frame and paging occasion, as defined in TS36.304
 Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: enum (4T, 2T, T, 1/2T, 1/4T, 1/8T, 1/16T, 1/32T)
o Default Value:T
 Configuration Principles
o T represents a paging cycle. For example 2T indicates two default paging cycles.
o It indicates the paging attempts made by a radio frame. Its value can be 4T
 The Parameter to Detemine BCCH Modification Period
 Parameter description
o This parameter is used to determine the BCCH modfication period(BCCH modification
period=N*DRX cycle length for paging).The purpose of this constraint is to ensure that all
the UEs being in idle state can monitor the system broadcast change message.
 Value Range and Step Length
o Value Range: enum (2,4,8,16)
o Default Value:4
 Configuration Principles
o The greater this parameter, the longer the system message is updated.This can have a
adverse impact on real-time message update.
o The smaller this parameter, the shorter the system message is updated. This can cause the
UE to monitor the system Info Value Tag more frequently
Tracing Area Planning
 TAC: It indicates a tracing area in a PLMN. It is used to manage the UE location and find
the desired UE.
o 1. The TAC is unique in a PLMN.
o 2. A cell must belong to a tracing area (TA) exclusively. When you configure the TAC, you
need to consider the quantity of cells in this TA.
o 3. The bonding relation between the TAC and the cell is determined by the cell size, cell
type (high-speed cell or low-speed cell) and TA list configuration.
 Principles
o 1.Determine the size of tracing area based on the UE paging capability and the network .
o 2.Avoid frequent IRAT cell re-selection and LAU/TAU.
o 3.Take the geographical features into account.
 a) Do not place the tracing area boundary in the heavy-traffic area (e.g. downtown area, or
central business district). Place the boundary in the low-traffic area (e.g. suburban area, or
factories).
 b) The tracing area boundary should be orthogonal or diagonal to the road. Moreover, keep
the overlapped part between tracing areas away from the area where UE moves in high
speed.
 c) Do not place different tracing area boundaries in the same small area. Otherwise, the UE
may frequently update the tracing area information or perform handovers between these
tracing areas.
o 4.Take the traffic increase tendency into account so as to provide tracing areas with proper
paging capacity, traffic capacity and expandability of the tracing area.
Part 3 PCI Planning

PCI Planning (1)

 PCI Planning (2)
 Principles
o 1）If there are cell A, cell B and cell C, the cell A and the cell B make up a group of
neighboring cells while the cell B and cell C make up another group of neighboring cells,
then the cell A and the cell C must use different PCIs.
o 2）When you allocating PCIs to different cells controlled by the same eNodeB, all these
PCIs should comply with the mod3 principle. Additionally, consider the mod3 principle when
you allocating the PCI to the cell and its nearest neighboring cell.
o 3）Cells sharing the same PCI should be far from each other as much as possible.
Part 4 PRACH Planning

Random Access Parameter

1.Cell High-speed Attribute

2.Ncs Used to Generate PRACH Preamble
3.Logical Root Sequence Start Number Used to Generate PRACH Preamble
4.Number of Non-dedicated Random Access Preambles
5.Size of Random Access Preambles Group
6.Threshold of Selecting Preamble Group
7.Message Power Offset for Group B
8.the Initial RB Number for Random Access Preambles
9.PRACH Configuration Index
10.Initial Power for Preamble of PRACH
11.Power Ramping Step for PRACH
12.Max retransmit number for PRACH
 13.TTI Window Size for PRACH Response
14.Max Number of Messages HARQ Transmissions
15.MAC Contention Resolution Timer
16.Dedicated Preamble Life Time

Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) is mainly used during the random access
process.
The functions of random access in LTE include the following:

-Obtaining UL synchronization during initial access and handovers.

-Assigning a unique C-RNTI for the UE during initial network access establishment.

An example
is when the status is changed from RRC_IDLE to RRC_CONNECTED.
Two scenarios are involved in the random access process:
Scenario I: Contention-Based Access
Scenario II: Contention-Free Access

There are two types of random access:

 Synchronized Random Access
 Non-synchronized Random Access
The random access is performed in two modes:
 Contention-based access (The UE selects a random preamble)
 Contention-free access (The eNodeB assigns a dedicated preamble to the UE.)
Triggers for Initial Access and Random Access
 RRC_IDLE (initial access)
 Break of radio link (initial access)
 Handover (random access)
 RRC_CONNECTED, the downlink data is arriving but the uplink is out-of-synchronization.
(random access)
 RRC_CONNECTED, the uplink data is arriving but the uplink is out-of-synchronization, or
the scheduling request is received from the PUCCH (random access)
Contention –based Access: applicable to all these five triggers
Contention-free Access: applicable to No.3 and No.4 triggers.
 PRACH Format Selection
 Considering the resources occupied by the PRACH, and the
 coverage area and features of macro cells, please select format 0
 when configuring the initial network.
 PRACH Root μ Sequence Selection Principles:
o (1) The root μ sequences between neighboring cells should be different.
o (2) The distance between cells whose root μ sequence should meet requirements.
o (3) Select the root μ sequence with smaller cyclic shift for the high speed scenario.
 The Ncs in the high speed scenario should be proper so as to address the impact left to the
peak data rate check from the cyclic shifting caused by frequency offset.
 The recommended value is given in the protocol.
 Part 5 Neighboring Cell Planning

Neighboring Cell Planning

 The neighboring cell planning aims to ensure voice quality and performance of the entire
network as the UEs on the cell edge can be handed over to their neighboring cells with the
best signals.
 The principles are as follows:
o 1.Normally, the geographically adjacent cells are configured as neighboring cells;
o 2.Oftentimes, the neighboring cell relation is bilateral; at times, the neighboring cell relation
is unilateral;
o 3.The number of neighboring cells should be proper. That is, either excessive or few
neighboring cells are improper. With excessive neighboring cells, the UE measurement
might be overloaded; with few neighboring cells, evitable call drops and handover failures
might occur without neighboring cells. At most 16 neighboring cells are recommended for
initial configuration.
o 4.The neighboring cell planning should be based on the drive test and actual radio
environment. For suburban and rural areas, to ensure possible handovers, neighboring cells
should be configured even if the inter-site distance is long.
Part 6 Frequency Planning

 Usually, the entire LTE network adopts the same frequency band. For example, 20 MHz
bandwidth is used for the entire network. To avoid ICIC, you need to allocate different
bands for different cells. Ensure that two cells with great overlapped coverage should better
not use the same frequency resources.
 Currently, frequency allocation includes four modes:
 Based On Same-Frequency
 Based on SFR(Non Exclusive IC)
 Based on SFR(Exclusive IC)
 Based on Differ-Frequency

Static ICIC Realization

 Static SFR
 As shown in the left figure, the whole frequency band is divided into three equal part. f1, f2
and f3 indicate the outer cell of three sectors.

 Static FFR
o As shown in the right figure, the whole frequency band is divided into four parts. It is similar
to the case that the f1 in SFR mode is divided into three equal parts, each of which serves
as the outer cell area of three sectors. In this way, cell edge users (CEUs) are separated
from cell center users (CCUs), reducing the interference from the side lobe users in the
neighboring cell to the CCUs of the service cell.
LTE Physical Signals
-- Downlink Physical Signals
1-DL Demodulation Reference Signals (RS).
2-Synchronization Signals.

-- Uplink Physical Signals

1- UL Demodulation Reference Signals.
2- Sounding Reference Signals.

In addition to data and control information, LTE defines other physical signals, including Reference
Signals and Synchronization Signals.

The eNodeB and UE use Demodulation Reference Signals (DRS) to estimate RF channel quality
(measure SNR).

The eNodeB transmits periodic Synchronization Signals (SS) to synchronize each UE with the
recurring physical slots and frames.

The eNodeB uses Sounding Reference Signals (SRS) to control frequency-dependant scheduling
for a UE. As needed, the eNodeB orders the UE to transmit special (sounding) Reference Signals
over some or all of the occupied subcarriers during 1 or 2 symbols times. The eNodeB uses the
sounding results to schedule specific frequency ranges for that UE.

An Overview on TDD and FDD Formats in

LTE
 What is FDD? FDD – Frequency Division Duplex is something that was used
commonly in 3G. It’s paired spectrum with an uplink band and a downlink band in their
specific spectrum. For 1G, 2G, and 3G this was common so you could have a talk and receive
channel in the system. There is a guard band in between the transmit band and the receive
band. FDD was very popular with GSM and CDMA. It is very difficult to take advantage of
MIMO antenna technology in FDD compared to TDD.
 What is TDD? TDD – Time Division Duplex is where there is one large piece if
spectrum used for uplink or downlink. Any part or percentage can be assigned to be the
uplink or downlink. If you have 20MHz of bandwidth available, then you’re not locked into
10MHz up and 10MHz down like FDD. Instead, you have full control over how much goes
up and comes down. The downside that some carriers had been the timing of the spectrum,
and it’s higher bands that have this. However, Wi-Fi spectrum is pretty much all TDD, and it
works quite well for data. On the other hand, WiMAX used TDD, and it seemed to be taking
off but it never fully blossomed and was cast aside for LTE. TDD makes MIMO technology
easier to use because it is all in one band.
So, what can LTE do? It can do both, and it does do both. Just not the same equipment.
You could have equipment do either LTE-TDD and LTE-FDD. Both are released
commercially as well as part of the 3GPP standard. When you look at the deployments, it
helps to know which format will be deployed. You see, FDD may need two antennas or a
combiner to work on a tower. While TDD is all in the same spectrum and the same antenna
is used for transmit and receive. The way that today’s radio heads work it isn’t much of an
issue anymore because they can handle the formats quite well. In 2016, you still can’t run
them together in the same radio head, although the OEMs are working towards that
functionality. Antennas are being designed to run both together by adding more ports and
more weight to the antennas.

Note that Wi-Fi is TDD and ZigBee is TDD. Most Bluetooth is TDD. TDD appears to be the
choice moving forward. Most 2G and 3G systems were FDD, and they are being phased
out.

Carriers are learning that when everything becomes truly digital in IP format that it will
matter less and less for the BTS but antennas and spectrum efficiency become more
important. As of 2016, most of the carriers already have implemented VoLTE into their main
networks, all except maybe Sprint who was still relying on CDMA to carry the voice. The
carriers know that when they convert VoLTE, it should be the last step to dismantling the 3G
networks, saving them money in the long run by retiring 2G and 3G systems.

Sprint is a great example of having both. They have FDD on the CDMA and LTE carriers as
well as TDD for their 2.5GHz spectrum of LTE. They have a huge amount of spectrum in
2.5GHz, over 100MHz of bandwidth. They have successfully deployed on both formats.

LTE Optimization Principle

1. Initial Tuning and Optimization
2. RAN Tuning VS RAN Optimization
3. Default Parameters Audit
4. Initial Tuning
5. Antenna Optimization
6. Antenna Tilting
7. Network Optimization Flow Chart
8. RF Optimization Flow Chart
9. Network Optimization Model
10. Optimization Object
11. Classification of Coverage Problem - RSRP
12. Factor Affecting Coverage
13. Weak Coverage and Holes
14. Solving Weak Coverage Problem
15. Case of Searching Weak Coverage Area by Using
Scanner or Drive Test Tool
16. Lack of Dominating Cell
17. Solving Problem with Lack of Dominating Cell
18. Cross Coverage
19. Resolving Cross Coverage Problem Path
Imbalance
21. Solving Imbalance UL and DL
22. Signal Quality - SINR/
23. Solving Signal Quality Problem by Parameters
24. Solving Signal Quality Problem by Interference
25. Analysis of Handover Success Rate
26. Handover Problem Analysis
27. Downlink Throughput Troubleshooting
28. Low Throughput Case of DL

LTE Power Control Mechanisim

LTE Power Control Mechanisim
POWER CONTROL vs. RATE CONTROL
When it comes to Packet switched technologies such as LTE, we are mainly concerned with
Data rate, unless if you are supporting Voice Services or other supplementary services i.e.,
VoLTE etc.

Let’s keep our focus on to Data Services alone for a moment. In order to provide data services,
there can be two approaches to overcome channel variations.

1. Rate Control
2. Power Control

In Power Control: Transmitted power is varied in accordance with channel quality as shown in
the diagram. Power is varied w.r.t. channel quality to provide a fixed data rate.

In Rate Control: Transmitted power remains fixed. However, in order to cope with
variation in channel quality. Modulation and coding schemes are varied to compensate
for channel variations. In this case data rate is variable, while transmitted power
remains fixed as shown in the picture below.
POWER CONTROL IN LTE
Let’s focus our discussion on Power Control in LTE for now.

In LTE , Power control takes place both in Downlink and Uplink. They way it takes place
in Downlink and Uplink will become evident in a little bit , as we go further down the
discussion. However, a picture is worth thousand words. Therefore the picture below
should explain you on Which channels in DL and UL , power control takes place.
Downlink Power Control
In case of 4G DL, rather than varying power in the Downlink, full power is distributed
uniformly over the whole bandwidth. The same Power Spectral Density (PSD) is used
on all DL channels. For example, PDSCH, PHICH, PDCCH etc.
How do we calculate PSD?
PSD is the power of a signal divided by Bandwidth.
PSD = Power / Bandwidth.
In case of PSD, it is normalized to one resource block.
Note: There are certain channels in DL, where power is varied accordingly. We are not
going to focus on how it is done and why in this topic for the sake of discussion for
now. If you have questions for power control in the Downlink, leave them in the
comments below.
Instead we will focus on UPLINK POWER CONTROL, with the detailed discussion on
Power control on one of the Uplink Channel as an example.
Do we Still Perform Power Control on Uplink (UL)?
As compared to Downlink. In case of Uplink in LTE, Power control is used. As the
battery of the phone(UE) is power limited compared to base station power in the DL.
Uplink power control is used mainly for the following two reasons.
1. limit intracell and intercell interference
2. reduce UE power consumption
How to Perform Power Control for the Uplink?
Usually in Uplink. Power control is done in two ways. One is
 Conventional Power Control
 Fractional Power control.
Conventional Power control is used in attempt to maintain a constant Signal to
Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR) at the receiver. UE increases their transmit power
to fully compensate any increase in path loss. The scheme is shown in figure below.
Whereas for fractional Power Control scheme. It allows the received SINR to
decrease as the path loss increases, i.e., the received SINR decreases as the UE
moves towards cell edge. The UE transmit power at a reduced rate as the path loss
increases, when compared to conventional power control, i.e, increase in path loss are
only partially compensated.

Both concepts are shown beautifully in the picture below

What is the advantage of Fractional Power Control ?
Fractional power control scheme improves air-interface efficiency and increase average
cell throughput by reducing intercell interference.
As an example and comparison among the two schemes. UE transmit power and
received power spectral density as a function of path loss are shown below. (The
definition of Alpha and possible values are explained in the post further down below. )
UE Transmit Power and Received Power Spectral Density (PSD) as a function of path loss
(Fractional Power Control )

UE Transmit Power and Received Power Spectral Density (PSD) as a function of path loss (
Conventional Power Control )
Open Loop and Closed Loop Power Control?
From the perspective of power control, it is important to understand the difference
between Open Loop and Close loop power control.
Open Loop Power Control Diagram.
In case of Open Loop power control. UE will start with the objective to compensate the
path loss. Whether Open Loop Power control is done using Fractional or Conventional
Power Control scheme. It depends on the if they enable Fractional Power control or
disable it.
If fractional power scheme is used , it forms the Open Loop component of power
control.
Open loop power control can maintain target PSD as received by the eNodeB. However
a disadvantage of Open Loop Power control is, it cannot compensate for issues like
slow fading. Therefore we need to introduce closed loop component.

Closed Loop Power Control:

Close Loop power control. In this case, the closed loop component is based on
feedback given by eNodeB to the UE. The receiver in Uplink which is eNodeB will issue
Special Transmit power control command (TPC) to the UE. Based on the TPC, UE will
either increase or decrease its power as instructed to compensate for the path loss.
Closed loop can compensate for issues such as slow fading.
Why to have Open Loop and Closed Loop Power Control ?
If you are asking , why to have two components i.e., open and close loop in the first
place.
Well, a picture is wroth thousand words. Therefore take a look below.

Enough Background to Accelerate for Power Control on UPLINK IN LTE

If you have read down so far, Congratulations!!!! Now you are done with the necessary
perquisite and background needed to understand Power Control and procedures in LTE
Uplink.
Let’s dig a little deeper to perform power control on Physical Uplink Shared Channel
(PUSCH) channel.
Keep in mind the function of this PUSCH channel is to
 Carry Data Traffic in the Uplink
 It can also carry signaling traffic in the Uplink, only when signaling and data are
being transmitted at the same time instant in the Uplink.
Side Note : For those who don’t want to go through the gory details(for your mind) of the
Power control components and parameters for PUSCH. Do yourself a favor, scroll all
the way down on this article and read the Quick Summary instead (4.4 mins read) .
What factors influence Power Control in Uplink on PUSCH
Now you know, what is the functionality and usage of PUSCH channel.
Let’s start with this question. Intuitively think about it.
What factors are going to affect power control on the Uplink for PUSCH.

Look at the picture above. You know which channel we are talking about here. We are
talking about PUSCH only. PUSCH = Channel which carries data traffic in the uplink
and can also carry control signaling when required/needed.
For this PUSCH channel. Power control will depend upon mainly on the following
factors (though a lot more shown in picture ) .
  Number of Resources
 MCS
 Path Loss
 UE Max Power
The detailed number of parameters are listed below.

If you feel confused to see a number parameters listed above. Don’t be.
Let’s deal with these parameters on one by one, to keep our attention span sane.
UE MAX POWER
As we know based on UE class category. It cannot transmit more than its maximum UE
power which is commonly 23 dBm for most LTE UEs in the Uplink.
The objective of the eNOdeB is that UE should transmit only enough power in the uplink
in a range which is the minimum required amount. Neither more, nor less than that.
Transmitting more or less than the required amount causes trouble.
UE Power Max: 23 dBm
Accordingly, there are limits and thresholds specified for transmission in the uplink to
keep UE uplink power in the desired range. UE power is specified as Pcmax
PCMAX_L ≤ PCMAX ≤ PCMAX_H
Where,
PCMAX_L = lower end of the maximum power UE is allowed to transmit
PCMAX_H = higher end of the maximum power UE is allowed to transmit.
As an example , if 23 dBm = PCMAX_H
and 21 dBm = PCMAX_L
in this case UE would be permitted to define its maximum output power using a value
between 23 and 21 dBm.
(Note: If you have specific questions on P_CMAX_L and P_CMAX_H . Put in the
comments below or send an email and we can continue the discussion)
Even though if we think intuitively, Higher uplink transmission Power can solve the
Uplink throughput and accessibility and retainability issues problems related to
Performance and Optimization.
However, the downside is, it will not only drain UE battery, plus it will result increase in
inter and intra cell interference as well.
Therefore, you need to be careful with the parameters, and different factors affecting
power control. By understanding the big picture and factors involved, you can always
decide and optimum value.
MODELING THE POWER CONTROL on PUSCH
Now let’s come back to the part where we will model the power control equation for
PUSCH channel on LTE in Uplink.
We know that we need to model the power in the uplink to an optimal value between
lowest and highest value.
PUSCH Power Conrol
We know the maximum value is
Pcmax = Pupper
And the minimum value will be equal to the one needed by the UE based on the
calculations and including the factors affecting power control.
With this in mind, for a given subframe ‘i’ the power transmitted for PUSCH can be
minimum of the two.
PUSCH Transmit Power (i) = min { PUPPER (i), PCALCULATED(i)}

Time to Break down, Pcalculated:

Pcalculated is the sum of Open Loop and Close Loop.
Pcalculated (i) = P calculated_open_loop (i) + P calculated_closed_loop(i)

Open Loop for PUSCH:

Open loop is dependent upon the factors which affect power control. Let’s list the
factors which only affect Open Loop Power control for PUSCH. Mentioned in the
diagram below.

Therefore, arranging the open loop power control factors into an equation , to
consolidate its effect.

P calculated_open_loop = 10*LOG (# of Resource Blocks) + Power needed at

eNodeB + (Path_Loss* Factor to Enable or Disable Fractional Power Control ) +
MCS

Let’s break down the factors discussed in the equation above into reasonable
expressions for Power Control on PUSCH.

# of Resource Blocks for PUSCH = MPUSCH

MPUSCH is the PUSCH bandwidth during subframe ‘i’ expressed in terms of Resource
Blocks. This variable is used to increase the UE transmit power for larger resource
block allocations.
The UE transmit power is increased in direct proportion to the number of allocated
Resource Blocks.
In other words, the transmit power per Resource Block remains constant if other factors
remain fixed. This is also referred as maintaining a constant power spectral density

Path Loss = PL
Path loss is the downlink path loss calculated by the UE as a combination of RSRP
measurements and knowledge of the reference signal transmit power

PL = Reference Signal Transmit Power – RSRP measurements.

The Reference signal transmit power is broadcast within SIB 2 and can also be signaled
with an RRC Connection Reconfiguration message. Its value range from -60 to 50 dBm.

Power needed at eNodeB = Po_PUSCH

Po_PUSCH represents the eNodeB received power per Resource Block assuming a
path loss of 0 dB.
The received power per Resource Block is maintained as the path loss increases when
using conventional power control alone.
The received power per Resource Block is decreased as the path loss increases when
using fractional power control. (Details are below).

Factor to enable or disable Fractional Power Control = α

Alpha (α ) is used to configure the use of fractional power control. This is the same
variable as that used by the eNodeB when calculating Po_PUSCH.
A value of 1 disables fractional power control.
Alpha can have a range of values from
 0,
  0.4,
 0.5,
 0.6,
 0.7,
 0.8,
 0.9,
 1

Modulation and Coding scheme = ∆TF

It increases the UE transmit power when transferring a large number of bits per
Resource Element. This links the UE transmit power to the Modulation and Coding
Scheme (MCS). The number of bits per Resource Element is high when using 64 QAM
and a large transport block size. The number of bits per Resource Element is low when
using QPSK and a small transport block size. Increasing the UE transmit power helps to
achieve the SINR requirements associated with higher order modulation schemes and
high coding rates.

Now combining all the expressions listed above into the OPEN LOOP Equation.

PCALCULATED_OPEN_LOOP = 10×LOG(MPUSCH) + PO_PUSCH + [PL × ɑ] + ∆TF

As for power control, if we want to include the factor to include power control at
subframe (basis) level. Let’s call the subframe ‘i’.
The above equation will become.
PCALCULATED_OPEN_LOOP(i) = 10×LOG(MPUSCH(i)) + PO_PUSCH(i) + [PL × ɑ(i)]
+ ∆TF(i)

CLOSED LOOP PORTION

P calculated_closed_loop = f(i)
The closed loop component depends on eNodeB providing feedback to the UE in the
form of Transmit Power Control (TPC) commands.
The close loop portion of the power control depends on the following factors.

For those who have firm grip on LTE air interface and control channel structure scheme
of LTE, they will agree that TPC commands are signaled to the UE within following
Downlink Control Information (DCI) formats

LTE Transmission Modes and Beamforming

( MIMO ) Notes
Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) technology is an integral part of 3GPP E-UTRA long term
evolution (LTE). As part of MIMO, beamforming is also used in LTE. This white paper discusses the basics
of beamforming and explains the eight MIMO transmission modes in LTE Release 9.
Introduction Modern communications networks use MIMO technology to achieve high data
rates. As a special MIMO technique, beamforming also permits targeted illumination of specific
areas, making it possible to improve transmission to users at the far reaches of cell coverage.
Like other communications standards such as WLAN and WiMAXTM, LTE also defines
beamforming. Beamforming is particularly important for the time division duplex (TDD) mode
in LTE. This white paper describes the eight available MIMO transmission modes in LTE as
specified in 3GPP Release 9, as well as how beamforming is used in LTE. 2 MIMO and
Beamforming Technologies 2.1 MIMO This paper discusses the MIMO concepts only to the
extent that they apply to LTE transmission modes (see 3.2). Refer to [3] for a more detailed
description of the MIMO concept as well as for a look at how MIMO is used in various
communications systems. MIMO systems are used to improve the robustness of data
transmission or to increase data rates. Typically, a MIMO system consists of m transmit antennas
and n receive antennas (Figure 1).

Figure 1: MIMO system with m TX and n RX antennas

Simply stated, the receiver receives the signal y that results when the input signal vector x is
multiplied by the transmission matrix H. y = H * x

Transmission matrix H contains the channel impulse responses hnm, which reference the channel
between the transmit antenna m and the receive antenna n. Many MIMO algorithms are based on
the analysis of transmission matrix H characteristics. The rank (of the channel matrix) defines
the number of linearly independent rows or columns in H. It indicates how many independent
data streams (layers) can be transmitted simultaneously. > Increasing the robustness of data
transmission – transmit diversity When the same data is transmitted redundantly over more than
one transmit antenna, this is called TX diversity. This increases the signal-to-noise ratio.
Spacetime codes are used to generate a redundant signal. Alamouti developed the first codes for
two antennas. Today, different codes are available for more than two antennas. > Increasing the
data rate – spatial multiplexing Spatial multiplexing increases the data rate. Data is divided into
separate streams, which are then transmitted simultaneously over the same air interface
resources. The transmission includes special sections (also called pilots or reference signals) that
are also known to the receiver. The receiver can perform a channel estimation for each transmit
antenna’s signal. In the closed-loop method, the receiver reports the channel status to the
transmitter via a special feedback channel. This enables fast reactions to changing channel
circumstances, e.g. adaptation of the number of multiplexed streams. When the data rate is to be
increased for a single user equipment (UE), this is called Single User MIMO (SU-MIMO). When
the individual streams are assigned to various users, this is called Multi User MIMO (MU-
MIMO)

4G Optimization and KPI Analysis

The purpose is to check the performance of Network. We have categories of KPI and numbers of
KPI of each category. In the Optimization process we have to check the KPI value to monitor
and optimize the radio network performance in order to provide better subscriber quality or to
achieve better use of installed network resources . Typically KPI can be categorized into
following subcategories:'

Accessibility KPI
Are used to measure properly of whether services requested by users can be accessed in given
condition, also refers to the quality of being available when users needed. eg. user request to access
the network, access the voice call, data call, ......
📈 Retainability KPI
Are used to measure how the network keep user's possession or able to hold and provide the
services for the users
📈 Mobility KPI
Are used to measure the performance of network which can handle the movement of users and still
retain the service for the user, such as handover,...
📈 Integrity KPI
Are used to measure the character or honesty of network to its user, such as what is the throughput,
latency which users were served.
📈 Availability KPI
Are used to measure the availability of network, suitable or ready for users to use services.
📈 Utilization KPI
Are used to measure the utilization of network, whether the network capacity is reached its resource.

KPIs for LTE RAN (Radio Access Network)

LTE KPI INDICATORS
 RRC setup success rate
 ERAB setup success rate
Accessibility KPI
 Call Setup Success Rate
Are used to measure properly of whether services requested by users can be
 accessed in given condition, also refers to the quality of being available when
users needed. eg. user request to access the network, access the voice call,
data call, ......
 Call drop rate
 Service Call drop rate
Retainability KPI
Are used to measure how the network keep user's possession or able to hold
and provide the services for the users
 Intra-Frequency Handover Out Success Rate
 Inter-Frequency Handover Out Success Rate
Mobility  Inter-RAT Handover Out Success Rate (LTE to WCDMA)
KPI
Are used to measure the performance of network which can handle the
movement of users and still retain the service for the user, such as
handover,...
 E-UTRAN IP Throughput
 IP Throughput in DL
Integrity  E-UTRAN IP Latency
KPI
Are used to measure the character or honesty of network to its user, such as
what is the throughput, latency which users were served.
 E-UTRAN Cell Availability
Partial cell availability (node restarts excluded)
Availability
KPI Are used to measure how the network keep user's possession or able to hold
and provide the services for the users
 Mean Active Dedicated EPS Bearer Utilization
Utilization
KPI Are used to measure the utilization of network, whether the network capacity is
reached its resource.

ACCESSIBILITY KPI:

☰ RRC Setup Success Rate

RRC setup success rate is calculated based on the counter at the eNodeB when the eNodeB
received the RRC connection request from UE. Number of RRC connection attempt is collected by
the eNodeB to the measurement at point A, and the number of successful RRC connection
calculated at point C. Here's an illustration:
☰ ERAB setup success rate
ERAB setup success rate KPI shows the probability of success ERAB to access all services
including VoIP in a cell or radio network. KPI is calculated based counter ERAB connection setup
attempt (point A) and successful ERAB setup (point B). The explanation is as given in the following
illustration:
☰ Call Setup Success Rate
Call Setup Success Rate KPI call setup indicates the probability of success for all service on the cell
or radio network. KPI is calculated by multiplying the RRC setup success rate KPI, S1 signaling
connection success rate KPI, and ERAB success rate KPI. The table below describes the definition
Call Setup Success Rate:
RETAIN-ABILITY KPI:

☰ Call Drop
VoIP call drop arise when VoIP ERAB release is not normal. Each ERAB associated with QoS
information. Here's an illustration of two procedures being done to release ERAB namely: ERAB
release indication and the UE context release request:

MOBILITY KPI:
☰ Intra-Frequency Handover Out Success Rate
Intra-Frequency Handover Success Rate Our KPI shows intra-frequency handover success rate of
locall cell or radio network to the intra-frequency neighboring cell or radio network. Intra-frequency
HO included in a single cell eNodeB or different eNodeB.
Intra-frequency HO scenario shown in the figure below:

No attempt HO calculations at point B. When ENodeB sending RRC connection reconfiguration

message to the EU, he will do the handover. ENodeB will count the number of times the HO attempt
at the source cell. HO calculation of success is at point C. The HO ENodeB count the number of the
source cell when ENodeB receive RRC connection reconfiguration message complete of the EU.
Here's a scenario intra-frequency handovers inter ENodeB:
Handover attempt occurs at point B, when the source ENodeB (S-eNodeB) sends RRC connection
reconfiguration message to the UE. He decided to conduct inter ENodeB HO. in this KPI, the source
and the target cell work on the same frequency. The number of the attempt HO calculated at the
source cell. The number of successful HO occurs at point C. During HO, HO amount which success
is measured in the cell souce. This measurement appears typing S-eNodeB received a UE context
release message from the target eNode B (T-eNodeB), or the UE context release command from the
MME, which shows that the UE-eNodeB T has successfully attach at the T-eNodeB.
The following scenarios illustrate intra frequency B HO - inter ENodeB:
Following the definition of Intra Frequency Out Handover Success Rate KPI:

☰ Inter-RAT Handover Out Success Rate (LTE to WCDMA)

Inter RAT Handover Out Success rate shows the success rate KPI HO from LTE cell or radio
network to a WCDMA cell.
Here's a scenario out inter RAT handover success rate:
Inter RAT handover success rate out

INTEGRITY KPI:

☰ E-UTRAN IP Throughput
A KPI that shows how E-UTRAN impacts the service quality provided to an end-user.
Payload data volume on IP level per elapsed time unit on the Uu interface. IP Throughput for a
single QCI:
To achieve a throughput measurement that is independent of bursty traffic pattern, it is important to
make sure that idle gaps between incoming data is not included in the measurements. That shall be
done as considering each burst of data as one sample. ThpVolDl is the volume on IP level and the
ThpTimeDl is the time elapsed on Uu for transmission of the volume included in ThpVolDl.
☰ E-UTRAN IP Latency
A measurement that shows how E-UTRAN impacts on the delay experienced by an end-user.
Time from reception of IP packet to transmission of first packet over the Uu.
To achieve a delay measurement that is independent of IP data block size only the first packet sent
to Uu is measured.
To find the delay for a certain packet size the IP Throughput measure can be used together with IP
Latency (after the first block on the Uu, the remaining time of the packet can be calculated with the
IP Throughput measure).
T_Lat is defined as the time between receiption of IP packet and the time when the eNodeB
transmits the first block to Uu.
Since services can be mapped towards different kind of E-RABs, the Latency measure shall be
available per QoS group.

AVAILABILITY KPI:

☰ E-UTRAN Cell Availability

E-UTRAN Cell Availability.
A KPI that shows Availability of E-UTRAN Cell.
Percentage of time that the cell is considered available.

As for defining the cell as available, it shall be considered available when the eNodeB can provide E-
RAB service in the cell.

UTILIZATION KPI:

☰ Mean Active Dedicated EPS Bearer Utilization

This KPI describes the ratio of the mean number of active dedicated EPS bearer to the maximum
number of active dedicated EPS bearers provided by EPC network, and it is used to evaluate
utilization performance of EPC network.
This KPI is obtained by the mean number of dedicated EPS bearers in active mode divided by the
system capacity.

The mean number of simultaneous online and answered sessions together with maximum number of
sessions provided by network can reflect system resource utilization. If the value of this KPI is very
high, it indicates system capacity is not enough, and needs to be increased. This KPI is focusing on
network view.