Andrew Launches Digital Scanner To Measure GSM Bands
Network evolution often means multiple technologies such as WCDMA or LTE operating in frequency bands that were traditionally GSM only. To assist network testers in such mixed signal environments, Andrew Solutions, the CommScope, Inc. division that is a global leader in wireless communication systems and products, is introducing patent-pending functionality to its easy-to-use i.Scan digital scanner that makes measuring GSM channels easier.
"We made this upgrade in response to our customers needing to improve operational efficiency," said John Baker, vice president and general manager, Network Solutions, Andrew. "Testing the quality and coverage of wireless networks especially as new technologies are introduced in mixed frequency bands is an ongoing industry need, which the enhanced i.Scan performs more quickly."
Andrew has added new proprietary signal processing techniques to i.Scan, which more rapidly filter out wideband signals and analyze GSM channels in a mixed technology cellular environment. This enhancement means that network testers will no longer need to know the GSM channel sets in advance of testing since i.Scan will sort the channels automatically. The result is faster scan rates than those that occur when traditional scanning receivers try to decode mixed RF signals, freeing network testers to utilize better the processing power of i.Scan.
"The easy upgrade path and multi-band testing capability of the i.Scan was designed with cost savings in mind for the operators," added Baker. "The signal recognition enhancement for GSM bands is intended to make network testing more efficient."
The i.Scan digital scanning receiver is capable of measuring and decoding GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, EV-DO, HSDPA and LTE technologies, as desired. With two down converter modules that can test up to six frequency bands simultaneously, i.Scan offers wireless operators multi-functionality, an easy upgrade path, and a lower total cost of ownership tool. The i.Scan unit communicates using standard Ethernet connections, and thanks to its simplified plug-and-play design, even non-experienced technicians can utilize it.
SOURCE: Andrew Solutions