An Efficient Approach for Evaluating Performance in LTE Wireless Networks

for cellular network planning and optimization, one of the fundamental methods is to perform drive test by means of scanners, phones, and receivers. Since Long Term Evolution (LTE) is rapidly taking place in the world market, the importance of quality of service (QoS) becomes essential in terms of customer satisfaction. In LTE cellular networks, Block Error Rate (BLER), Reference Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) can be defined as Key Performance Indicators (KPI). In the case of LTE, the QoS and coverage of cellular networks can be explained by Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) of the dedicated control channel. Performing phone-based measurement requires tedious and costly procedures in terms of accessing network providers. In this study, the measured average RSRP is used to assess and eliminate detailed drive tests in LTE hardware performance assessments. Keywords—Drive test; LTE; RSRP; VPL; Interpolation