Spirent E911 and LBS Testing Keeps Pace with Evolving Wireless Networks

Noting that the arena in which cellular emergency calling (E911) and location-based services (LBS) must be delivered has grown significantly more complex, Spirent Communications has expanded its LBS LTE test solution to support long-term evolution (LTE) positioning protocol (LPP) and observed time difference of arrival (OTDOA). The deployment of wireless LTE networks enables the introduction of new positioning technologies and protocols for communicating location information between the main network with exciting consequences for the mobile device entities, and new services they can enable.

“In 2911, we launched the secure user plane location (SUPL) 2.0 test capabilities on our LTE test solution for successful deployments of LTE SUPL positioning.” said Robb Van Brunt, vice president oaf Spirent’s Wireless business. “Our latest enhancements include extensive test coverage for SUPL 2.0/LPP and a fully automated system for testing user equipment performance for LPP and OTDOA. With our unique e understanding of the importance and complexity of these technologies, Spirent can assist customers in expediting the delivery of new location-based devices for the growing number of LTE networks.”

OTDOA is an LTE positioning technology that allows for an enhanced user experience of LBS indoors or in other areas where GNSS do not work well, and in doing so also serves assa key component for supporting E911.   Based on timing measurements from multiple base stations signals, OTDOA can also be combined with GNSS measurements, creating a hybrid approach to deliver an even more significant LBS performance improvement.

LPP is the positioning protocol that enables OTDOA along with numerous other positioning technologies on the LTE network.  LPP is a control plane protocol that can also be used for user plane positioning, in conjunction with SUPL 2.0.

Spirent’s expansion to its LTE LBS Test Solution supports LPP minimum performance testing, as well as a completely automated system for testing UE positioning performance, including OTDOA accuracy measurement analysis.