Spectrum & Power Measurements

Introduction
With the rapid development of wireless technologies, it has become increasingly important
to maintain a high-performance and fully optimized network. Quality and reliability of
service have grown exponentially in importance over the years and now greatly infl uence
the customer’s choice of a service provider.
The E6474A Agilent drive-test system provides a low-cost, lightweight, customizable and
easy-to-use platform solution for spectrum monitoring and interference detection.  The
system can perform the basic functions of a spectrum analyzer, but also has recording
capabilities that allow data to be collected and then post-processed.
With this spectrum measurement and analysis tool, the entire network can be examined, in
both downlink and uplink, increasing the chance of discovering spurious transmissions. In
addition, the W1314A family of receivers is designed with a signifi cantly low noise fi gure
for easier noise fl oor characterization.
Networks of all technologies - LTE, WiMAX, UMTS, EVDO, HSPA+ cdma2000, GSM and
GPRS - can benefi t from spectrum monitoring for network optimization, troubleshooting,
infrastructure installation and even manufacturing.
This application note describes how the spectrum measurements contribute throughout the
“network lifecycle.” Each stage in the cycle -- band clearing, site evaluation, optimization
and quality of service -- can benefi t greatly by using the Agilent drive-test system.