RADIO FREQUENCY OPTIMIZATION OF MOBILE NETWORKS IN ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA FOR IMPROVED QUALITY OF SERVICE

Olasunkanmi F. Oseni, Segun I. Popoola, Henry Enumah, Ayonote Gordian

Abstract: Radio Frequency Optimization is an important process in verifying and monitoring the performance of any GSM radio network already deployed in an area. It is a periodic activity that is done to maintain a good radio quality of service and enhance end users’ perception. This research work aimed at improving the Quality of Service (QoS) of the GSM radio network deployed within Abeokuta City, Nigeria in order to retain existing subscribers and attract new ones while continually expanding the network. A drive test was carried out in dedicated mode with the goal of collecting measurement data as a function of location and to identify the eventual black spots in the GSM radio network. The data collected were analysed in post-processing software tool (MapInfo Professional) to identify the causes of problems and determine how these problems can be solved effectively and efficiently. Poor network coverage and degradation in QoS were encountered in some parts of the city. This performance was due to the land topology and the presence of physical obstructions in the propagation environment. The Hand-Over (HO) failures were mainly due to Base Station Controller (BSC) synchronization issue. Therefore, additional Base Stations were planned to be deployed in those areas; and the BSC synchronization issue was resolved. This will resolve frequent network complaints that lead to customers’ dissatisfaction and boost the revenue of the mobile network provider.

Keywords: Radio Network Optimization, QoS, Speech Quality Index, Drive Test

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15623/ijret.2014.0308027