Overview

In previous chapters, we have described universal mobile telecommunications service (UMTS) from a pure technology perspective. In this chapter, we aim to address the design criteria and methodologies that apply to deploying UMTS technology in a real network. There are numerous inter-related considerations that must be addressed in the design and deployment of such a network. While some of these considerations are common to any wireless network design, a number are specific to the technology in question. Regardless, because of the multiple issues involved, it is very important that a well understood methodology is in place so that the network design can proceed from the initial establishment of requirements to the final deployed network.

12.1 Network Design Principles

Figure 12-1 shows the overall network design and deployment process at a very high level. To begin with, we must specify a number of criteria regarding the set of services that we wish to provide and the estimated demand for those services. We must establish exactly where we wish to offer those services, and we must establish any limiting factors that might constrain our ability to meet all objectives such as spectrum limitations.

Figure 12-1: Design and deployment process (high level).

Based on the established input requirements, a number of network design activities take place. These can largely be broken into two main areas radio frequency (RF) network design and core network design. Of course, within each of these areas there is a myriad of individual...