Network optimization trials of a vendor-independent methodology using the Ocelot® tool

Abstract

Bell Labs Research and Lucent Worldwide Services (LWS) have developed a radio frequency (RF) optimization service to improve performance of cellular networks. This service utilizes the Bell Labs-developed Ocelot® software platform, which can simultaneously optimize coverage and capacity of the wireless air interface utilizing automated optimization routines. Field trials of the Ocelot platform have been conducted on two major wireless providers' networks. The first trial, conducted in a 20-cell region, showed an 18% increase in capacity, a 36% reduction of blocked calls, and a 20% reduction of dropped calls. The second trial, conducted in a 44-cell region, showed a 22% increase in capacity, a 10% reduction in blocked calls, and a 7% reduction in dropped calls. The Ocelot-related network improvements were achieved by making adjustments to antenna tilt/azimuth/pattern and transmit powers. The increased system capacity deferred (and in some cases reduced) the purchase of additional hardware. The methodology and the Ocelot tool are vendor independent. As a result of these trials, LWS has introduced new service offerings based on this tool.