3G Americas publishes data performance optimization paper

October 25, 2006

3G Americas published a white paper focused on coverage-enhancing features, products, and network design in 3G systems.

The paper, Data Optimization: Coverage Enhancements to Improve Throughput Performance, looks at two areas of data throughput performance: the actual radio network design itself, as well as the technical features that can improve the performance of the design. As the performance of 3G services is dependent upon the quality of the RF signal being received by mobile devices, this technical white paper discusses coverage challenges and solutions for urban, suburban and rural areas, including: intelligent repeaters, distributed fiber systems, neutral host system opportunities and challenges, remote radio heads, Macro, Micro, Pico and Femto cells, remotely adjustable antennas, smart antennas, dynamic network performance optimization, and other related topics. A comparative solution matrix is presented for reference by operators and solutions providers for identifying the optimum solution for specific applications.

An objective for 3G mobile wireless technology is to provide users with seamless mobility and mobile broadband access of voice and data services, not only in outdoor environments, but also indoors, where many users will be. Thus, coverage extension solutions are a critical element of providing a positive experience to the end-user of the services. To this end, the 3G Americas' white paper provides recommendations on subjects such as site acquisition, equipment choices, and placement and location of sites and antennas. All of these decisions are integral to the design and deployment of seamless end-to-end 3G networks.

Chris Pearson, President of 3G Americas, stated: "As mobile data users and applications steadily increase, operators must take steps to continually enhance packet data performance. This paper outlines solutions to providing and improving RF coverage, and thus enhancing the service performance. These coverage solutions can be tailored to the specific deployment and operational needs of wireless operators, to quickly and efficiently provide the coverage their customers require."