From tower installation to ensuring optimal network performance of emerging 5G networks, VIAVI Solutions’ OneAdvisor-800 is a single, end-to-end test and measurement solution that replaces multiple, independent tools such as an OTDR, coax sweep tester and fiber scope. The one cost-effective unit, with interchangeable test modules, simplifies the entire test process and saves service providers, field technicians and contractors money and training time while ensuring accurate results. One singular platform works for all radio types (LTE and 5G) and topologies (Macro-cell, Small-cell, C-RAN and/or DAS).
New technicians and seasoned network engineers alike can test all aspects of the tower infrastructure such as RF, fiber and CPRI/Ethernet, cable and even timing and synchronization. Having one test unit for the field technician to carry instead of separate tools is also safer for the climber, according to VIAVI. “The OneAdvisor-800 along with our test process automation (TPA) solution saves the technicians time because they do not have to remember which tests to run or how to operate different test tools, and the cost of training/retraining technicians is lower,” says Kashif Hussain, Director of Solutions Marketing.
The OneAdvisor-800 (ONA-800) promotes consistency, which is key when it comes to test and measurement procedures. “The OneAdvisor-800’s TPA workflow carefully guides technicians through a step-by-step test process, ensuring that the technicians complete the job in the same way and to the same specifications, dependent on what type of testing is being done,” says Hussain. He adds that the OneAdvisor-800 provides in-the-field guidance, automatic test configuration, pass/fail results and a final report that is uploaded wirelessly to the server, in real-time, for easy retrieval.
One interface with interchangeable modules – it sounds as simple as swapping out games on a PlayStation®. It is. Once the technician learns the buttons and screen directives, the process is the same, only the modules are different. “Whether it is an installation job or a maintenance crew, the OneAdvisor-800 offers a much smaller learning curve for the technician and the cost entry point is much lower for the customer,” says Hussain.
New 5G network buildouts require increased capacity and number of cell sites, to achieve a larger bandwidth. “The biggest channel that Verizon and AT&T offer on the air is about 20 MHz. The throughput they offer is megabits per second. With 5G throughput, we’re talking about gigabits, which require hundreds of megahertz of spectrum,” says Hussain. With the C-band auctions and mmWave band spectrum, coverage is small, so network operators will scale up deployment, adding more cell sites to cover the same area. “With about 30-40 dB difference in coverage, there will be a significant number of cell sites that need to be deployed in order to achieve that footprint,” adds Hussain.
Those new cell sites will need testing. Mobile service providers, tower companies and contractors all benefit when the testing is done early (at installation), instead of at the time of commissioning, when it can equate to more time and cost to the project.
“Fiber is a good example. While it may seem easy to connect from one end to the other, all the way to the radio, it may become twisted or rolled and the technician may not see it. The OneAdvisor-800 can easily validate if it’s correct, saving the operator from hiring another tower climbing crew to find it after the commissioning happens,” says Hussain. He gives the example of finding problems with cross connects, interference and PIM problems which can easily be solved by testing in advance.
The OneAdvisor-800 also offers key features including two modular bays for 4100 series OTDR and 6 GHz CAA modules, a Job Manager for workflow automation that allows for seamless testing between optical and coaxial network nodes. It’s also enabled by a cloud-based StrataSync service.
Another common challenge discovered during the integration phase is incorrectly seated fiber. Radio initializations fails, causing multiple site visits to determine the cause, resulting in delay and extra cost.
In one particular instance, testing with an OTDR showed low signal power, and the location where the optical connector was not seated properly, was identified. This could have been avoided if proper testing with the OneAdvisor-800 was done at the time of installation.
VIAVI worked closely with NEMS and service providers to ensure that the OneAdvisor-800 offers cost-effective, robust testing capabilities with quick training and consistent results. “When time to market and getting it right the first time is everything, OneAdvisor-800’s full-range of test capabilities across the whole spectrum fits the bill,” says Hussain. He adds that they will continue to build on the OneAdvisor-800 modular platform, depending on what new technology evolves and what market feedback is received.
“If you are installing a cell site or commissioning it, and you want to get it accepted the right way the first time, then the OneAdvisor-800 solution is the one product that can help you test, verify, validate and optimize your cell site,” says Hussain. “It is a breakthrough cell site installation solution that brings unprecedented simplicity, speed and accuracy.”
For more information, visit viavisolutions.com or call 408-404-3600 to speak with a representative.
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