TETRA or P25 legacy narrowband technologies are no longer adequate for meeting the connectivity demands of today’s first responders. As the requirements for mission-critical networks expand, broadband connectivity emerges as the solution.
Thorough testing of devices and mobile networks facilitates the transition to 3GPP-compliant broadband mission-critical services (MCX). At Critical Communications World 2024 (CCW 2024) in Dubai, which is running 14-16 May 2024, Rohde & Schwarz will showcase its integrated solutions, ensuring the dependable operation of mission-critical devices, networks, and services. Additionally, solutions enhancing situational awareness for law enforcement and protection will be featured.
Reliable communication is imperative for emergency services when lives are at risk. While voice applications remain the top priority for first responders, data and video-based mission-critical applications are becoming increasingly crucial in both crisis situations and day-to-day operations. Public safety and government agencies worldwide are transitioning their various communications networks from narrowband land mobile radio (LMR) systems like TETRA or P25 to broadband networks capable of meeting the growing need for high-speed data services, alongside voice.
This migration to either 3GPP-compliant isolated secure networks or commercial 4G/5G-based cellular networks with embedded mission-critical capabilities requires meticulous planning and execution to maintain existing narrowband capabilities.
Narrowband networks will continue to operate in parallel for another decade, offering features such as push-to-talk (PTT) to users. The 3GPP-defined internal architecture for MCX services includes user/group management, policy and charging enforcement, signalling control, and cross-network interworking. Applying appropriate and advanced test and measurement techniques during this ongoing migration process is crucial to ensuring the reliable operation of critical communications for first responders and saving lives in crisis scenarios.
As a trusted partner of the critical communications ecosystem, Rohde & Schwarz will present its comprehensive range of test solutions for MCX at Critical Communications World 2024.
At booth M20, visitors can learn from Rohde & Schwarz experts about the full range of test solutions, covering R&D and conformance testing of end devices to network testing, including MCX application verification. The exhibited portfolio will also include solutions for spectrum monitoring and network protection, all aimed at ensuring the reliable operation of mission-critical networks and services.
The company will also showcase its extensive expertise in 3GPP conformance testing for critical communications. For the first time, its 3GPP MCX device conformance test suite will be demonstrated on the R&S CMX500 4G/5G one-box tester. This suite includes comprehensive 3GPP RF, functional, protocol, and application tests for rugged MCX devices. Additionally, the R&S CMA180 radio test set for testing PMR (public mobile radio) and LMR (land mobile radio) devices will be featured, highlighting the company’s cutting-edge solutions for device R&D and conformance validation for MCX device manufacturers.
Rohde & Schwarz will present its expertise in active and passive mobile network testing methods and solutions covering the entire MCX network lifecycle, from coverage and interference measurements to specific MCX service testing like MCPTT and MCVideo quality.
Visitors will experience a unique MCX smartphone-based test solution implemented on the QualiPoc, allowing assessment of the performance of MCX private and group calls, including measurement of 3GPP-specified MCX KPIs. Another test solution based on the R&S ROMES4 drive test software and the R&S TSMA6B mobile network scanner provides a universal tool for network engineering and optimization.
There are also solutions for stationary, transportable, and portable spectrum monitoring systems providing comprehensive spectrum awareness. A portable monitoring receiver for interference hunting in and around specific areas and facilities, will be showcased. It is an indispensable tool for regulatory authorities, mobile network operators, police forces, military units, and other security organisations.
Cellular network analysis R&S NESTOR is a turnkey mobile communications solution for situational awareness, law enforcement, and protection of critical infrastructure. Used in conjunction with R&S TSMA6B mobile network scanners and QualiPoc smartphones, it analyses cellular networks via the air interface. Public authorities and security organizations utilise it to detect, identify, locate, and analyse deployed cellular technologies and occupied bands and channels.
In addition, Rohde & Schwarz experts will share their insights at the Focus Forum on testing and certification of broadband devices on 15 May, 2024, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
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