The Rohde & Schwarz TSMW software drive test solution equipped with the latest R&S ROMES now offers complete MIMO measurements in real LTE networks.

Because multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology can increase the capacity of Long-Term Evolution (LTE) networks, Rohde & Schwarz has added MIMO-specific measurements to its R&S ROMES4.65 drive test software. According to the company, by using this feature, the R&S TSMW network scanner can quickly identify interferers that reduce MIMO performance in LTE networks (Fig. 1).

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This latest software version for the drive test solution enables network operators and infrastructure manufacturers to collect important MIMO data during a drive test (Fig 2). The data can be essential in determining where an investment in MIMO pays off in their coverage area and where MIMO can be implemented smoothly and efficiently.

When used with the R&S TSMW network scanner with its two integrated receivers, the R&S ROMES software can measure the MIMO channel matrix for both 4x2 and 2x2 systems. From the matrix, the software calculates a parameter known as the condition number, which indicates the capacity gain that can be achieved with MIMO. A GPS receiver assigns this data to the exact position and clearly displays it on a map. The R&S ROMES software performs MIMO measurements on all bandwidths up to 20 MHz. Interference can be detected over the entire bandwidth used by the LTE signal.

The R&S ROMES software collects important MIMO data during drive tests.

MIMO-specific measurements are saved in the complex channel matrix with a time component, the phase shift. The measurement data can be exported for later field-to-lab applications. Using fading emulators, a complete mobile radio network can be reproduced in the lab simulating real field conditions.

Network operators can test all their mobile radio networks with a single instrument because the R&S TSMW combined with the ROMES drive test software covers LTE as well as UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication), and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access ) standards. The TSMW supports all frequencies from 30 MHz to 6 GHz.

The new version of the R&S ROMES4.65 drive test software is now available.