Quality of service and RF optimization of GSM-based cellular mobile networks

Abstract

The increased growth of Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) networks is not without challenges such as dropped or blocked calls, poor internet access, occasional service outages, and network congestions among other poor service challenges. This paper investigated and analysed the performance of GSM networks for optimization of Quality of Service (QoS) at Malete, Kwara State. Due to the inability to make calls, poor data service, network congestions, etc., 2G, 3G and 4G drive test analyses were conducted and a questionnaire method was adopted to compare customer feedbacks with the test results. Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and parameters such as Call Setup Success Rate (CSSR), Call Completion Rate (CCR), Call Drop Rate (CDR), and Call Handover Success Rate (CHSR) were considered and investigated. The data collected through Test Mobile System (TEMS) software were analyzed using map info professional to identify the cause of these problems with a view to providing efficient and effective solutions to the problems. Destitute network and QoS performance were encountered in some parts of the research area and parametric optimization was given as a way of improving the network performance for better QoS, reception, revenue generation and economic growth.