A New Mobile RF Drive Test Application

Abstract

Samani Siewe Darix

To enhance the quality of service (QoS) provided to users, network operators are compelled to continually refine their network infrastructure through the iterative process of drive testing. Drive testing is a method used to measure and assess the coverage, capacity, and QoS in a mobile radio network. However, the conventional paradigm governing drive testing, which entails the deployment of either radio frequency equipment or software solutions such as TEMS Investigation ac- companied by GPS and an MS (Mobile Station), is marred by inherent limitations that hinder precision in data collection spatiality and necessitate a cumbersome use of multiple tools. In our work, we embark on a novel trajectory, anchoring our noninvasive drive test methodology on the potency of a wearable device such as smart phones. Inspired by this, we design an Android-based drive test platform that stands as a fulcrum of innovation. This platform consists primarily of a mobile application that acts as a measuring instrument, and an API to relay the data collected by the mobile application. This An- droid-based approach provides operators with heightened precision in both location determination and parameter measure- ments. Moreover, it streamlines service provisioning, eliminating the need for a range of complex tools, and instead offering a simple application based solution. By adopting our mobile application, the drive testing process becomes adaptable to a variety of scenarios, including roads with high traffic density or narrow pathways. Our methodology signifies a significant step forward in improving resources-efficient drive testing process for operators.

PDF