Design, Deployment and Performance of 4G–LTE Networks: A Practical Approach

In 2008, when the professional paths of the authors crossed, they worked together on many projects including an end–to–end LTE and HSPA+ networks. Since then, they have teamed up to study, design and evaluate the technical aspects of the state–of–the–art cellular technologies. Combining their practical expertise in diverse topics, they bridge the theory and the best practice of 4G networks into this book. Written by experts in the field with vast hands–on experience in cellular technologies, this book delves deeper into the practical aspects of design and deployment of a commercial LTE network, combining compelling research and field results to cut through the end–to–end architecture, design, and deployment scenarios. The book presents the LTE network performance analysis and optimization and advanced features. Furthermore, the reader is provided with a detailed explanation for coverage and capacity planning of the LTE network. The book also provides an in–depth explanation on how to provision Carrier–Grade VoLTE with a comprehensive coverage of the IMS and RAN advanced features. The LTE analysis is presented in a comparative manner with reference to the HSPA+ network. Key Features:  Conveys the theoretical background of 4G networks Presents key aspects and best practice of 4G networks design and deployment Addresses strategies for performance evaluation and troubleshooting processes Demonstrates assessments of various LTE features including C–DRX, CSFB, MIMO techniques,    and VoLTE Provides practical examples and case studies on coverage prediction, link budget, and capacity dimensioning for voice and data services.  Special focus on the essential capabilities necessary for any operator to test & deploy, before commercializing VoLTE Includes a realistic roadmap for evolution of a deployed 4G networks, including carrier aggregation, HetNet, enhanced MIMO and SON. Design, Deployment and Performance of 4G–LTE Networks will be an invaluable guide for 4G engineers in network operators and vendors, network deployment engineers, R&D engineers, planning and optimization engineers, measurement/performance tools firms, consulting firms, undergraduate and graduate students interested in understanding the LTE system.