Compact scanner simplifies mobile network optimisation

2nd March 2015

Mick Elliott

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Rohde & Schwarz has unveiled an autonomous mobile network scanner at Mobile World Congress 2015 in Barcelona (March 2-5). Unlike previous scanner models, the R&S TSMA features an integrated high power processor and does not require an external PC, making it compact, lightweight and independent.

The scanner can be installed in a vehicle in order to verify radio channel quality under field conditions. The scanner can easily be carried and operated from a backpack for network measurements in buildings with high data traffic density. Indoor tests are gaining in importance due to the intensive use of data services.

It provides precise, high speed collection of important data in all available mobile networks and is operated via a SwissQual QualiPoc Android smartphone or tablet. This configuration is best suited for indoor and walk tests. While recording the data collected by the scanner, QualiPoc Android simultaneously carries out voice and data tests.

It displays captured measurement values from the scanner in real time. Coupled with the scanner QualiPoc Android delivers all required measurement data. It offers easy operation for precise and efficient implementation of complicated tasks such as network optimisation in multi-storey buildings.

As an alternative to operating the scanner via smartphone or tablet, any drive test software such as R&S ROMES or SwissQual Diversity Optimiser can be installed on the scanner and controlled via tablet. Test mobile phones for voice and data tests can be connected via USB at any time. The optional R&S TSMA-K31 LTE downlink allocation analyser allows, in a single location, parallel subscriber density measurements in multiple LTE networks operated by various providers.

With a measurement bandwidth from 350 MHz to 4.4 GHz, the R&S TSMA covers all bands specified for wireless communications technologies. The scanner can even be used in bands waiting to be standardised or allocated, providing excellent investment protection. It also supports frequency bands outside allocated standards, allowing it to monitor A&D activities, for example. The R&S TSMA is even compatible with TETRA - an appealing feature for security organizations and government authorities.

The scanner can be optionally equipped with a battery pack for even more flexibility. The two easily accessible rechargeable batteries are hot-swappable, i.e. changing batteries does not interrupt the task at hand. A backpack system offers enough room for the scanner, battery pack, a mobile phone and accessories.