Warsaw University of Technology Faculty of Electronics and Information Technology The Institute of Telecommunications Author: Dinesh Mannani

BSc. Thesis on

Self-Organizing Network Concepts in LTE

Supervisor: Dr in. Mirosaw Somiski Literature:
[1] Use cases, requirements and assessment criteria for future self-organising radio access networks, M. Amirijoo, R. Litjens, K. Spaey, M. Dttling, T. Jansen, N. Scully & U. Trke, IWSOS 2008, Vienna, Austria, December 10-12, 2008 The concept of self-organizing networks is a promising one which would lead to the reducing the manual operations in the field of wireless access network planning, deployment and optimization. The paper discusses the various technical aspects to define and implement the self-organization functionalities and also presents some reference cases (benchmarks) which help in comparing and understanding the importance of self-organization concept over manual network operations. The basic advantages of SON functionalities are reduction in OPEX (Operational Expenditure), enhancing the global network capacity along with the QoS (Quality of Service) and coverage experience by the end user. The paper was written as a part of the SOCRATES project whose main objective was to provide dedicated SON solutions (method as well as algorithms) so as to implement SON in the future wireless access networks keeping in mind the 3GPPs LTE Radio access in mind. The paper elaborates the various use cases and classifies them into three broad categories: self configuration, self optimization and self healing. It also lists downs the several technical requirements categories: performance and complexity, stability, robustness, timing, interaction, architecture and scalability, and required inputs (performance counters and measurements) which need to be considered for the various use cases along with the business requirements like: reduction in OPEX and CAPEX (capital expenditure) and LTE deployment requirements like speedy deployment along with new feasible services. [2] Handover parameter optimization in LTE self-organizing networks, T. Jansen, I. Balan, I. Moerman & T.Krner, COST 2100 TD(10)068, Joint Workshop COST 2100 SWG 3.1 & FP7-ICTSOCRATES, Athens, Greece, February 5, 2010. This paper cover the self-optimization techniques that could be used for improving handovers(HO) in a mobile system network leading to better network performance along with improved QoS. Algorithms for improving HO parameters include the best of hysteresis as well as time-to-trigger combination for a particular network and target to reduce the no. of HO failures, dropped calls and ping-pong action between two base-stations. The metrics are divided into system and assessment metrics which could be measured/ observed such as the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Signal-to-Interference and Noise Ratio (SINR) which can play a vital role in the handover process. The paper also further describes the algorithm in detail with the help of a flow chart. In the end, optimization criteria are derived from practical application of such an algorithm in a simulation scenario. The results of fixed operating point are compared to the handover performance of the optimized network leading to the conclusion of improved system performance significantly.

[3] Long Term Evolution (LTE): Overview of LTE Air-Interface, Technical White Paper by Motorola This paper gives an introduction to the concept of the air interface for LTE Evolved UTRA (EUTRA) and related technical details to reach the design objectives. The long term goals for LTE system include the support for high peak data rates i.e. 100 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink, low latency (10ms round-trip delay), improved system capacity and coverage, reduced operating costs, multi-antenna support, efficient support for packet data transmission, flexible bandwidth operation (upto 20 MHz) along with compatibility with the existing systems. The paper outlines the requirements & objectives for the LTE E-UTRA and the technologies adopted to achieve them such as OFDM for Downlink transmission, SC-OFDM for uplink transmission and other technical details like the Frame structure, Multi-Antenna Subsystem(MAS) & MIMO etc. There are also results from the system simulation performed on the LTE E-UTRA which show 3-4x improvement in comparison to HSDPA & HSUPA. [4] Long Term Evolution (LTE): A Technical Overview, Technical White Paper by Motorola This paper gives in detail the technical overview of the LTE system describing the need to make such a network along with the solutions implemented in the system to meet the desired goals. It underlines the various services goals to be met by the LTE system such as web browsing, FTP, video streaming, VoIP, online gaming, real time video etc. , which are all dependent on high data rates. The paper describes the system architecture along with the functional elements like Evolved RAN, Serving Gateway (SGW), Mobile Management Entity (MME), Packet Data Network Gateway (PDN GW). The functioning of these functional elements is given in detail in the paper. In brief this paper provides in detail the knowledge about the system architecture along with the performance objective for LTE. [5] 3GPP LTE/SAE Overview, September 2006, U. Barth, Alcatel PRESENTATION

This presentation introduces the concept of LTE as seen by 3GPP and talks about the system architecture for LTE. Presentation covers the history and lists the requirements of LTE. Its divided on various sections such as LTE air Interface, discussing about the issues of modulation/ multiple access, multiple antenna schemes and scheduling, LTE Architecture which covers the cost efficient 2 node architecture and the E-UTRAN architecture. The structures of various layers have been described in detail. The SAE is discussed along with its key components with the help of diagrams. [6] The Benefits of SON in LTE, Self-Optimizing And Self-organizing Networks, December 2009, 3G Americas This white paper highlights the Release 8 and Release 9 Self-Organizing Network (SON) techniques and explains how these capabilities would positively impact the network operations in the evolved LTE networks. The main reasons for automating network operations by introducing SON are defined as the need to reduce manual intervention in network operations/deployment to save OPEX and the complicated processes which are difficult to control manually can be handled with automation and provide better service results. The paper describes in much details each of Release 8 and Release 9 SON key features in a very systematic manner with the benefits of each feature. [7] A roadmap from UMTS optimization to LTE self-optimization, a ent . P e Rome o . nche -Gon e . ust R. a -guerra, M.A.; Henche, D.; Paul, D.; This paper appears in: Communications Magazine, IEEE Issue Date: June 2011

This paper claims the suitability to gain insight into the problem of moving from the SON concept to the real implementation in networks, by taking advantage of optimization mechanisms in live Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) networks. In particular, the whole process of SON is considered using the optimization framework developed considering different stages that include the collection of inputs from different sources like network counters, measurement reports, drive tests; the tuning parameters to achieve optimization, and the optimization algorithms itself. The various parameters and their roles have been described quite clearly in the paper. The proposed framework in this paper is presented and evaluated for convenience in a UMTS context, it is rather generic and technology-agnostic and hence can be formulated as an initial reference for LTE selfoptimization use cases. The proposed framework is applied to a practical coverage optimization use case supported by data extracted from a real UMTS network in a European city, illustrating the capability to automatically identify a cell with sub-optimal coverage and to provide a solution to the problem. The extension of the case study to LTE has also been analyzed in the paper along with discussion on various parameters such as KPI, likelihood and reliability indexes etc. As a conclusion the paper makes a projection to the LTE context by identifying the key points to be solved for the materialization of a self-optimization procedure. [8] Self-Organizing Networks (SON) in 3GPP Long Term Evolution, Sujuan Feng, Eiko Seidel, Nomor Research GmbH, Munich, Germany, 20th of May 2008 This paper discusses the principles behind SON, along with some architectures and exemplary procedures. It also underlines the main functionalities of SON: self-configuration, self-optimization and self-healing and describes each with possible implementation methods. Different Son architectures according to the location of optimisation algorithms have been discussed such as the: Centralized SON, Distributed SON and Hybrid SON. Various use cases approved by the 3GPP have also been provided with proper definitions. These use cases have been discussed thoroughly along with their expected results and possible solutions. [9] Self Organizing Network NEC's proposals for next-generation radio network management February 2009, NEC Corporation The paper discusses about SON in general highlighting the hybrid management architecture by NEC which claims to improve robustness, scalability and response of self-X functions and enable effective integration into the existing operations. It describes the various technology features that introduction of SON will enable to handle such as the Hybrid Management Architecture, Energy Saving etc. [10] LTE: MIMO Techniques in 3GPP-LTE, Dr. Jayesh Kotecha, Jason Wong, Freescale Semiconductors, Nov 5, 2008 Presentation The presentation discusses the role of MIMO in achieving the targets of LTE while describing the various technical components such as the DL & UL frame structure, multiple antenna schemes in LTE, the PHY layer architecture etc. The various scenarios of MIMO implementation have been covered in the presentation along with description of different stages such as Pre-coding, impact of CQI Feedback, transmit diversity and many more. [11] Self-Organizing Networks in 3GPP LTE, Seppo Hmlinen: Research, Technology and Platforms, Nokia Siemens Networks, Espoo, Finland, 20-23 Sept. 2009, ISSN: 1090-3038 This paper describes the general idea of LTE along with pointing out that the consequence of the flat network architecture of LTE will lead LTE base stations to assume more radio resource management related control functions that were formerly associated with the radio network controller. The basic key points of SON are described along with the benefits it would bring. [12] Long Term Evolution (LTE): an introduction, October 2007, White Paper Ericsson

This white paper, written in the very early stages of LTE development points out the benefits of LTE for both the consumers as well as the operators. It also discusses the technical merits of LTE and its components. [13] Overview of the 3GPP Long Term Evolution Physical Layer, Jim Zyren, jzyren@freescale.com, Dr. Wes McCoy, Technical Editor According to this paper LTE is designed to meet carrier needs for high-speed data and media transport as well as high-capacity voice support well into the next decade. It encompasses high-speed data, multimedia unicast and multimedia broadcast services. This paper focuses on the LTE physical layer (PHY) which is a highly efficient means of conveying both data and control information between an enhanced base station (eNodeB) and mobile user equipment (UE). The LTE PHY employs some advanced technologies that are new to cellular applications including Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) and Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) data transmission. In addition, the LTE PHY uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) on the downlink (DL) and Single Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) on the uplink (UL). OFDMA allows data to be directed to or from multiple users on a subcarrier-by-subcarrier basis for a specified number of symbol periods. Due to the novelty of these technologies in cellular applications, they are described separately before delving into a description of the LTE PHY. Although the LTE specs describe both Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD) and Time Division Duplexing (TDD) to separate UL and DL traffic, market preferences dictate that the majority of deployed systems will be FDD. This paper therefore describes LTE FDD systems only. [14] HSPA to LTE-Advanced: 3GPP Broadband Evolution to IMT-Advanced (4G), September 2009, Rysavy Research / 3G Americas This paper discusses the evolution of EDGE, HSPA enhancements, 3GPP LTE, the capabilities of these technologies, and their position relative to other primary competing technologies. It explains how these technologies fit into the ITU roadmap that leads to IMT-Advanced. The following are some of the important observations and conclusions of this paper: -The wireless technology roadmap now extends to IMT-Advanced with LTE-Advanced being one of the first technologies defined to meet IMT-Advanced requirements. LTE-Advanced will be capable of peak throughput rates that exceed 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). -Persistent innovation created EDGE, which was a significant advancement over GPRS; HSPA and HSPA+, which are bringing UMTS to its full potential; and is now delivering LTE, the most powerful, wide-area wireless technology ever developed. -GSM-HSPA1 has an overwhelming global position in terms of subscribers, deployment, and services. Its success will continue to marginalize other wide-area wireless technologies. -In current deployments, HSPA users regularly experience throughput rates well in excess of 1 megabit per second (Mbps) under favorable conditions, on both downlinks and uplinks, with 4 Mbps downlink speed commonly being measured. Planned enhancements such as dual-carrier operation will double peak user achievable throughput rates. -HSPA Evolution provides a strategic performance roadmap advantage for incumbent GSMHSPA operators. Features such as dual-carrier operation, MIMO, and higher order modulation offer operators multiple options for upgrading their networks, with many of these features (e.g., dualcarrier, higher-order modulation) being available as network software upgrades. -HSPA+ with 2x2 MIMO, successive interference cancellation, and 64 Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) is more spectrally efficient than competing technologies including Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) Release 1.0. -The LTE Radio Access Network technical specification was approved in 2008 for 3GPP Release 8, which was fully ratified in March, 2009. Initial deployments will occur in 2010 and will expand rapidly thereafter. -The 3GPP OFDMA approach used in LTE matches or exceeds the capabilities of any other OFDMA system. Peak theoretical downlink rates are 326 Mbps in a 20 MHz channel bandwidth. LTE

assumes a full Internet Protocol (IP) network architecture, and it is designed to support voice in the packet domain. -LTE has become the technology platform of choice as GSM-UMTS and CDMA/EV-DO operators are making strategic, long-term decisions on their next-generation platforms. In June of 2008, after extensive evaluation, LTE was the first and thus far only technology recognized by the Next Generation Mobile Network alliance to meet its broad requirements. -GSM-HSPA will comprise the overwhelming majority of subscribers over the next five to ten years, even as new wireless technologies are adopted. The deployment of LTE and its coexistence with UMTS-HSPA will be analogous to the deployment of UMTSHSPA and its coexistence with GSM. -3GPP has made significant progress on how to enhance LTE to meet the requirements of IMT-Advanced in a project called LTE-Advanced. LTE-Advanced is expected to be the first true 4G system available. HSPA-LTE has significant economic advantages over other wireless technologies. -WiMAX has developed an ecosystem supported by many companies, but it will still only represent a very small percentage of wireless subscribers over the next five years. -EDGE technology has proven extremely successful and is widely deployed on GSM networks globally. Advanced capabilities with Evolved EDGE can double and eventually quadruple current EDGE throughput rates, halve latency and increase spectral efficiency. -With a UMTS multi-radio network, a common core network can efficiently support GSM, WCDMA, and HSPA access networks and offer high efficiency for both high and low data rates, as well as for both high- and low-traffic density configurations. In the future, EPC/SAE will provide a new core network that supports both LTE and interoperability with legacy GSM-UMTS radio-access networks. -Innovations such as EPC/SAE and UMTS one-tunnel architecture will flatten the network, simplifying deployment and reducing latency. -Circuit-switched, voice-over HSPA, then moving to voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) over HSPA will add to voice capacity and reduce infrastructure costs. In the meantime, UMTS-HSPA enjoys high circuit-switched voice spectral efficiency, and it can combine voice and data on the same radio channel. [15] 4G Mobile Broadband Evolution: 3GPP Release 10 and Beyond HSPA+, SAE/LTE and LTE Advanced, February 2011, 4G Americas This white paper provides detailed information on the status of IMT-Advanced, on 3GPP Rel-10 including HSPA+ enhancements and the introduction of LTE-Advanced, and the planning for Rel-11 and beyond. [16] http://www.fp7-socrates.org

The SOCRATES (Self-Optimisation and self-ConfiguRATion in wirelEss networkS) project aims at the development of self-organisation methods to enhance the operations of wireless access networks, by integrating network planning, configuration and optimisation into a single, mostly automated process requiring minimal manual intervention. The project has contributed a lot of publications in this field which are very vital for my subject. [17] http://www.gsacom.com/

Contains various papers, technology updates, reports. [18] http://is-wireless.com

Their product portfolio helps understand the various concepts with details.