Bridging the Gap between Network Planning and Operation
Besides wireless access technology, 5G gives rise to a new network infrastructure that integrates existing networks and applications (mobile communications, fixed networks such as glass fiber and copper, Wi-Fi, LTE, etc.). The coordination and configuration of this cross-sector network expansion presents massive challenges for the network operators. It would be nearly impossible to overcome this Herculean task without the appropriate automation solutions. This is where self-organizing networks (SON) promise help. Yet concepts such as SON also work best in combination with optimum network planning: COM5.Mobile from MicroNova (formerly CPCM) supports mobile operators in this task, easing some of the pressure.
Integration into Existing Systems
The modular structure and the fully configurable workflow concept ensure customizability to the needs of the network operators. The integration of Narrow Band IoT and 5G is already conceptually embedded in the COM5.Mobile roadmap and ensures the seamless introduction of these technology standards. The operating process, optimized for network operators, ensures compliance with the prescribed KPIs and ensures an efficient roll-out of new equipment or new software versions.
Approval and testing mechanisms between the planning and configuration processes can be kept strictly separate thanks to the modular concept. COM5.Mobile also takes account of the carrier’s own logic. This means the usual graphical representations and filters or specific workflows are still available; staff at the MNOs can quickly and efficiently get to grips with the system.
COM5.Mobile streamlines the view of often heterogeneous, regional network and organizational structures. Using a central database for target and live data, the solution creates the basic prerequisite for cross-network adjustment and optimization. Existing planning systems from the radio network and fixed-line segment as well as Operation Support Systems (OSS) from third parties can be seamlessly integrated and managed in COM5.Mobile via an adaptation layer.
Efficient Support for Network Expansion and Optimization
COM5.Mobile’s powerful workflow management functionality also allows extensive automation of the planning and configuration processes. Essentially, COM5.Mobile implements mechanisms of a self-configuration service (Plug & Play).
Users always have an overview of the progress or status of network expansion thanks to continuous adjustment to the live network. An optimization interface takes current results from measurements and drive tests and applies them directly into the planning process, and from there to the live network.
If planning results in modifications to network parameters, the solution can also transfer these new parameters directly to the live network after careful validation. In this way, using the configuration and migration tool in COM5.Mobile closes the gap between the planning and activation of set parameters in the mobile network. This results in planning and configuration data that is of high quality and up-to-date, and thus correct configuration of the entire network.
Wide Range of Applications
COM5.Mobile supports all relevant network organization operator processes: From MNO-SWAP to complex carrier- and vendor-neutral and technology-spanning neighborhood planning. The solution also helps to plan network coverage, frequencies, and load balancing during the roll-out of new network hardware and functions.
The continuous development of COM5.Mobile and the long-term know-how of MicroNova's experts in the configuration of Radio Access Networks (RAN) are a guarantee for the future integration of new technologies and standards. All in all, COM5.Mobile provides mobile operators a 360° solution for network organization, allowing them to bridge the gap between network planning and operation for a reliable network and satisfied customers.
