Comprehensive on-site testing of Node Bs using real-world scenarios, both at initial installation and then during ongoing maintenance, plays a vital role in preventing and solving performance problems before they impact subscribers. Thorough testing also gives network operators greater confidence in the quality of the deployed network.

Without effective test equipment the running costs of the network are more expensive as Installation teams, Maintenance teams and Optimization teams take much longer to resolve cell site issues. It is very important to correctly identify faulty hardware (or cables) as cost of replacement hardware is expensive when out of warranty.

A poorly operating cell can result in an increase in dropped calls, poor quality calls, poor data throughput, interference and actual network coverage not matching planned network coverage.

Product Overview

The 6413A Base Station Test System is designed specifically for installation and commissioning, maintenance, fault-finding, optimization and final unit production testing of Radio Base Stations. The test set has two test modes.

Iub Controlled Testing Mode

In order to perform comprehensive UMTS Base Station testing the 6413A takes complete control of the Node B via the IUB interface using its unique RNC emulation capability. This allows the 6413A to perform all the critical transmitter, receiver and functional tests without external control equipment or need for detailed knowledge of the Node B operation and control.

The base station is tested independent of a Live network using repeatable test scenarios, which are not possible when using purely on-air based test equipment. The whole nature of UMTS means that air conditions change dynamically so measurements recorded using purely on-air based monitoring tools or mobiles are inconclusive when trying to establish if a BTS is operating to specification.

Live Testing Mode

The Live Testing mode addresses the growing demand by network operators to be able to evaluate the performance of Base Stations without taking the site out of service and disrupting active cell traffic.

By emulating a subset of mobile protocol it is possible to test both transmitter and receiver paths without affecting other users on the network.

Live testing allows network operators to perform periodic performance assessments of their Base Stations without impacting revenue. This test mode complements the IUB test mode as the Live testing mode may be used to confirm cell site issues and the IUB testing mode, with its more comprehensive test coverage being used to isolate base station faulty components.

The 6413A Base Station Test System provides:

• Comprehensive and independent 3GPP FDD UMTS Base Station Test (Node B Test) system for both lab and field use
• Comprehensive test coverage reduces time spent resolving cell site issues, ensures that faulty hardware is correctly identified and enables network operators to maintain Quality of Service obligations
• Capability to perform Base Station Test (Node B Test) independent of network in a controlled environment using IUB interface
• Capability to perform Base Station Test (Node B Test) of receiver and transmitter on a live network without disrupting active traffic
• Excellent measurement accuracy in field portable test equipment. Vital in UMTS where 1 dB in power accuracy will impact cell performance by 11%
• Intuitive user interface and automation allows less experienced engineers to operate this equipment
• Base Station test equipment that is rugged enough for field deployment
• Full support packages to keep up to date with Node B enhancements
• Continuation of success from the Racal Instruments 6113 GSM Base Station Test System with over 2000 units delivered to customers world wide