(Under construction)
Some Planning Tools for Mobility Wireless Systems | CellOpt | PathPro | GRANET | QEDesign | deciBel Planner | EDX Signal Pro | Wizard |
| Probe | NetPlan | CRC-COV | CelPlanner | CellCAD | WinProp | ComStudy | RFCAD |
| MSI Planet |PathLoss | Watchmark Design | OPNET | Romulus | ASTRIX | RPS |
| Site Planner | Wavesight | Odyssey | TAP | Quotient | Volcano | Athena | Enterprise |
| NP Workplace |
CellOpt (SAFCO/ComOpt) CellOpt® is a next generation Automatic Frequency Planning (AFP) tool that produces implementation-ready frequency plans. It is available on both workstations and PC platforms.
PathPro (MLJ Software)
PathPro® is a next generation integrated design tool which supports the design of wireless telephony networks including Paging, Cellular (AMPS, NAMPS), PCS, (E)SMR, GSM, WLL, LMDS, and other wireless standards. Features such as interactive cell positioning, automatic updates of design plots and a powerful networking system enable the user to examine entire network design iterations quickly.
GRANET (GRAphical Radio Network Engineering Tool) is a comprehensive software system that allows telecommunication companies to plan cellular and PCS radio networks both efficiently and economically. GRANET runs on UNIX, and a new version is running on Windows/NT. GRANET uses a sophisticated graphical user interface, optimized algorithms, and many other software technologies to make the radio engineer?s job easier. GRANET won R&D 100's best product of the year award in 1997, and it has earned many corporate technology awards.
QEDesign (Ericcson, acquired from QUALCOMM, Inc.)
The QEDesign® software package is used to predict CDMA coverage and network performance based on geographic data, demographic demand, and the specific network layout. The software integrates propagation prediction routines to analyze key CDMA performance issues, including CDMA soft handoff regions, forward and reverse link coverage, required channel resources, and automatic cell size adjustment based on demand.
Planet and decibel Planner (Marconi)
Marconi has acquired MSI and Northwood Technologies and has combined their innovative wireless software solutions and services: Planet and deciBel Planner. Planet is an enterprise solution designed to build bridges between strategic planning, business areas, network design, and implementation throughout the organization. It enables users to design a truly scalable network, utilizing 2G, 2.5G, or 3G wireless technologies. The deciBel Planner® suite of Windows-based network planning software products is used to design wireless networks based on CDMA2000, as well as other mobile and broadband wireless technologies. deciBel Planner also seamlessly combines RF prediction and spatial analysis capabilities, enabling network operators to efficiently plan, build and operate complex and high-speed wireless networks. Marconi is the only company that offers Windows and Unix-based products and services around the globe, with support for 2G, 2.5G and 3G networks including: AMPS, iDEN, GSM/TDMA, GPRS, CDMAOne, cdma2000 (1xRTT, 1xEV-DO, 1xEV-DV), UMTS, Point -to-point , microwave and fixed wireless planning (2 GHz to 40 GHz)
EDX Signal Pro (EDX Division of Comarco Wireless Technologies, Inc.)
EDX SignalPro (tm) for Windows (R) 98/NT/2000 is a comprehensive software package offering a complete set of planning tools for wireless communication systems. EDX SignalPro contains propagation prediction tools for wide area service prediction, link analysis, point-to-point and point-to-multipoint studies. These tools can be used for a wide variety of technologies requiring single site, multi-site and multiple site sector studies in the 30Mhz-60Ghz frequency range. EDX tools support MW, SMR, TDMA, GSM, CDMA, LMDS, MMDS, WLL, FM, and TV. EDX also has advanced modules for AM Broadcast, Cellular/CDMA, Broadband, MicroCell/Indoor (to 100GHz), 3G UMTS and Optimization. SMR, Microwave, FM and TV broadcast including ENG and STL.
Wizard (SAFCO/TEC Cellular)
WIZARD® provides full-featured RF modeling capabilities and terrain-based propagation model analyses for all major wireless technologies (AMPS, CDMA, GSM, TDMA, and SMR). This Windows-based package produces full-color prediction plots to aid network growth planning, interference analysis, and multi-technology deployments. Open interfaces to other applications, allow engineers to incorporate RF prediction maps into status reports and marketing presentations
Probe (V-Soft)
Probe is a professional level tool for RF propagation modeling, DTV/TV and FM interference analysis which produces high quality "atlas" type maps. It integrates a 200,000 megabyte population database with polygon mapping. Propagation models includes Longley-Rice, TIREM, PTP, Line of sight, and standard FCC methods. V-Soft also has an extensive line of other productivity tools for engineering consultants.
No information available.
CRC-COV (Industry Canada - Communications Research Centre)
CRC-COV is a software to design and predict coverage of broadcast systems. Evaluation and analysis of signal propagation are performed using complex models and detailed topographical information. Available propagation models includes Longley-Rice (area and point to point mode), CCIR Rec. 370 (VHF and UHF) along with the CEPT DAB planning revision of Rec. 370, Okumura, Free Space and CRC-PREDICT while DTED, USGS, CRC-COV and CRC-PREDICT databases are supported by the software.
CelPlanner (Celplan Technologies)
CelPlanner Suite consists of software prediction tools, databases and subscriber data, such as demographics, that combine to produce highly accurate RF propagation reports. CelPlanner's elements include: Databases, Integrated Link Budget, Propagation Analysis, Measurement Integration, Demographic analysis, Traffic/Load analysis, Predictions, and Frequency and code planning. The package runs on Windows 9x/NT platforms.
RPS - Radiowave Propagation Simulator (RPS)
RPS is designed for fast and accurate channel estimation and coverage prediction in urban and suburban building areas (microcells) and as well in indoor cells for a frequency range from 0.8 up to 60 GHz. The 2.5D prediction algorithms and the ability to distribute the necessary computations to parallel working RPS-Server-Workstations make RPS to one of the fastest and most flexible deterministic-based propagation simulators. Beyond the integrated GUI-based building database designer and various internal data analysis functions, RPS provides an interface to the MATLAB(TM) software package. That interface makes nearly unlimited further evaluation of computed channel data in time and space (DOA,AOA) in both, elevation and azimuth, possible.
Wavesight (WaveCall )
Wavesight is an advanced ray tracing prediction model and optimization tool designed for use in urban areas. It may be employed in microcell, small cell and macrocell environments. The Wavesight prediction algorithm is embedded in Arcview, but can be plugged in to any planning tool such as the Aircom Enterprise Tools.
Odyssey (Logica Mobile Networks)
Odyssey can provide the solution to increasing traffic and profitability by helping network operators maintain sufficient network capacity and coverage. Whether a new operator planning and implementing a network, or a mature operator optimising a network, Odyssey can provide a business solution. Odyssey offers a unique combination of the most powerful propagation modeling capabilities with innovative use of distributed computing, optimised coding, and an object oriented database. Odyssey has an open architecture design, which enables integration with existing systems. This facilitates faster predictions, accurate modeling, and manageable radio network planning and operation. The innovative features within Odyssey elevate this product to the next generation in Radio Frequency planning.
Volcano (Siradel)
Volcano is a propagation software component developed by Siradel, which stems from nearly 10 years of continuous research and development to meet the increasingly complex demands of wireless telecommunications operators. Volcano can be integrated into any type of radio planning software tool and offers deterministic propagation models that include UMTS-ready functions and powerful algorithms such as optimized ray-tracing/UTD, automatic tuning, multi-resolution capabilities, indoor penetration, wideband propagation, as well as macro-, mini-, micro- and pico-cellular propagation simulation.
Moreover, Volcano is unrivaled in its ability to generate highly accurate and fast calculations, with accuracy vs. calculation speed adaptability, essential for many radio-planning tasks.ENTERPRISE Suite (AIRCOM International)
The ENTERPRISE Suite offers a complete PC-based network planning and optimisation solution. This integrated software system provides maximum data availability across an organisation thus reducing overall IT infrastructure and administration costs. All of the tools have a common look-and-feel which results in increased productivity and lower training costs. Components can be installed in any combination depending on the end-user requirements. The purchaser also has the ability to license additional components as needs grow. There is increased problem-solving capabilities due to availability of network configuration data within all tools.
CellCAD (Ericsson, acquired from LCC International, Inc.) The CellCAD family of products were recently acquired by Ericsson from LCC International. Follow the following links for further information about CellCAD, CellSIGHT, Golf, and Metronet. Current information will be posted when it becomes available.
WinProp (AWE)
WinProp's unique CNP (Combined Network Planning) features makes it well-suited for use in macro-, mini-, micro- and picocell network planning. It features terrain (macrocell) predictions using the parabolic equation method, predictions for urban cells, indoor receivers in mobile communication networks (penetration of buildings), indoor wireless networks, and planning of wireless LAN's (WLAN). Features include prediction of field strength / received power, prediction of delay spread, and prediction of fast fading.
ComStudy (RadioSoft)
Abstract in preparation.
RFCAD (SiteSafe, Inc.)
RFCAD 2.4 integrates scanned topographic maps for use as the base layer in system designs so that one can produce clear and easy-to-see RF coverage and analysis maps. In addition, RFCAD 2.4 allows one to export coverage prediction studies into ArcView® in order to provide flexible system analysis and integration within an existing GIS model. Its Biby-C propagation model is based on more than fourteen years of engineering analysis and system design experience. ArcView is a registered trademark of Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.
Pathloss (Contract Telecommunication Engineering)
The Pathloss program is a comprehensive path design tool for radio links operating in the frequency range from 30 MHz to 100 GHz. The program is organized into eight path design modules, an area signal coverage module and a network module which integrates the radio paths and area coverage analysis. Switching between modules is accomplished by selecting the module from the menu bar.
Watchmark (Watchmark Design)
WatchMark Design is a radio frequency engineering design tool that lets engineers plan, analyze, and optimize wireless networks for strategic advantage and superior customer service. Originally developed by wireless engineers for wireless engineers, WatchMark Design has proven itself able to address and easily adapt to the diverse array of wireless networks worldwide, including CDMA, GSM, and PCS cellular technologies.
OPNET Modeler, OPNET Radio and ERP Network Guru for SAP R/3 (MIL3)
The OPNET® family of network simulation tools provide for design, simulation and analysis of digital communication networks and distributed systems. They allow users to develop custom models of network software including distributed algorithms and protocols. OPNET Modeler includes point-to-point and multi-cast link models. OPNET Radio includes radio frequency and satellite modeling. ERP Network Guru helps users predict the effects of proposed SAP deployment on their enterprise network.
Romulus (RCC Consultants)
ROMULUS is a UNIX-based is an integrated wireless network and traffic engineering tool with included modules for microwave point to point, point to multipoint for WCS, LMDS, MMDS and WLL system designs. The application boasts of up to 16-sector capacity with in unlimited number of sites in a network. Each sector may be defined with its own calibrated propagation model and frequency/channel table. Their newest offering, ComSitePro, is an interference analysis tool used to perform frequency compatibility studies that include transmitter noise and receiver desensitization and intermodulation interference.
ASTRIX (Teleplan)
ASTRIX is a system for planning of mobile systems. ASTRIX is built around three main components 1) RPS - Radio Planning System for mobile systems - Effective ways of planning and managing changes in the network. 2) RLT - Radio Link Tool 3) Integrated Network Database - The Site Database built on Oracle - and with an open format. ASTRIX has advanced macro cell multipath predictions for GSM (the so-called Q15 problem). ASTRIX is frequently updated to keep up with customer demand for advanced functionality. ASTRIX is currently in operations on three continents and is planning advanced dual-band network functionality.
COMNET (CACI)
CACI develops modeling and performance prediction software for use in network design. By assessing network performance of proposed designs up-front, clients are better prepared to make informed investments. CACI products run on all popular platforms including Windows 95, Windows NT, and UNIX. Products such as COMNET III (Satellite and Mobile Module) predict throughput and performance to improve wireless to wireline network integration.
SitePlanner (Wireless Valley Communications)
SitePlanner is a fully integrated design, measurement, optimization, and management engineering tool for in-building, campus-wide, and microcell wireless communications systems. The tool suite includes the Predictor, InFielder, and Optimatic modules that work seamlessly for all phases of deployment, maintenance, and optimization of a local wireless system.
TAP - Terrain Analysis Tool (Softwright, Inc.)
Tap is Windows-based software to perform evaluation of existing or proposed transmitter sites, radio coverage predictions,TV and FM broadcasting, microwave, cellular, PCS, paging, and two-way radio system design.
Quotient (Quotient Communications)
Quantum is a radio planning software package produced to bring together the best in network design and corporate Geographical Information Systems (GIS), to aid the process of design, implementation and optimisation of analogue, TDMA and UMTS Cellular/PCS networks and WLL/BWA networks. It includes all the basic features expected from a state of the art radio network planning tool, including network element database, digital terrain map, propagation prediction, composite coverage and interference analysis, as well as measurement analysis, traffic analysis, handover analysis, automatic frequency planning and neighbour list generation.
Athena (Wave Concepts)
Athena is a new second generation wireless planning tool built FOR RF Engineers BY RF Engineers. Utilizing the CRC-PREDICT physical optics model and statistical interference analysis techniques, Athena is the among most accurate propagation tool ever developed with typical standard deviations on the order of 5 dB or better for most morophologies. Running on any Intel Pentium® based PC using Microsoft Windows® 95, 98, NT, or 2000 and
operating in a fully functional MapInfo® environment, Athena is very versatile and user friendly. Athena utilizes true three dimensional planning so systems can be planned for users in high rise buidings or on elevated roadways. Inherent spatial accuracy combined with statistical interference analysis techniques enable realistic performance simulation modeling in both the forward and reverse links
Network Planner WorkPlace (Multiple Access Communications Ltd)
The Network Planner WorkPlace (NP WorkPlace) offers high resolution urban cellular planning for all wireless standards (2G and 3G, 400 MHz to 3.5 GHz). Producing 5m bin resolution outputs from 1m resolution building maps (not clutter based) and 10 - 20m terrain databases, the NP WorkPlace offers minicell and microcell RF predictions for any city environment. The minicell algorithm (MiniWorks) is intended for use where the antennas are roof mounted and, using 3D building data, can generate RF predictions at any height above the terrain. The microcell algorithm MicroWorks) is used when the antennas are mounted below the surrounding roof height, on building walls for example, and predicts the RF propagation in the "urban canyons" formed by the buildings and streets. The NP WorkPlace utilises proprietary, highly accurate algorithms that do not need to be calibrated prior to use. The prediction algorithms can be supplied as kernels for integration into other planning tools. The NP WorkPlace is PC based, and the kernels can be ported to most platforms.
MACcdma is a CDMA network model designed to guide engineers involved in planning a CDMA-based 3G network, where service mix and traffic density together with network based control algorithms will affect blocking and service delivery areas in ways never imagined in 2G systems. MACcdma is a post RF prediction tool that can use coverage prediction from the NP WorkPlace and other propagation prediction tools.
NPS/I (Nokia) No information available.
WinProp (AWE)
WinProp's unique CNP (Combined Network Planning) features makes it well-suited for use in macro-, mini-, micro- and picocell network planning. It features terrain (macrocell) predictions using the parabolic equation method, predictions for urban cells, indoor receivers in mobile communication networks (penetration of buildings), indoor wireless networks, and planning of wireless LAN's (WLAN). Features include prediction of field strength / received power, prediction of delay spread, and prediction of fast fading.
SitePlanner (Wireless Valley Communications)
SitePlanner is a fully integrated design, measurement, optimization, and management engineering tool for in-building, campus-wide, and microcell wireless communications systems. The tool suite includes the Predictor, InFielder, and Optimatic modules that work seamlessly for all phases of deployment, maintenance, and optimization of a local wireless system.
Volcano (Siradel)
Volcano (see above) also has important indoor capabilities, for both 2D and 3D (multi-floor) cases, which are intensively used within many research projects and WLANs deployments.
WiSE (Lucent Technologies) WiSE is a system for designing indoor and microcell (``campus'') wireless systems. Given building data (wall locations and composition), system parameters, and base-station locations, WiSE determines system performance (e.g., received power, delay spread) throughout the building or at specific points. Given parameters and system requirements (e.g., signal strength threshold), WiSE determines base-station locations to maximize the fraction of the building over which the performance requirement is met. A sophisticated graphical user interface allows interactive design and optimization.
CINDOOR (University of Cantebria, Spain)
CINDOOR is an engineering tool for use in the design, planning, and effective implementation of wireless systems in general enclosed spaces. The method underlying CINDOOR is a flexible approach to the propagation process, allowing analysis of indoor and outdoor environments and the interaction between them. The method is based on a full three-dimensional implementation of GO/UTD. Ray tracing is efficiently carried out by combining Image Theory with Binary Space Partitioning algorithms. The space-time distribution of the electromagnetic field is processed to obtain a set of magnitudes that form a basis for planning a wireless system: coverage (mean power), fading statistics, power delay profile, and associated parameters, such as rms delay spread and the coherence bandwidth.
EDX Signal Pro (EDX Division of Comarco Wireless Technologies, Inc.)
An Indoor/Microcell Module allows EDX SignalPro (tm) for Windows (R) 98/NT/2000 to be used as a planning tool for indoor wireless communication systems.
http://members.shaw.ca/propagation/planning.html
Last updated: 20 May 2002