Field testing is one of the most crucial elements that helps in the success of a newly launched device or for a mobile operator an indicator in order to analyze their service in terms of Quality of Experience (QoE) and Quality of Services (QoS) That includes 5G Network Testing Equipment and tools, 5G Speed Tests Tools & RF Drive test tools and software’s. With the new regulations aligning the Covid -19 necessities it has become a greater challenge for field testing engineers to carry out these tests as only one person is allowed to carry out the activity in a moving car, hence its a challenge for the test engineer to both drive and conduct the tests simultaneously.
Challenges for the Mobile Phone Manufacturers
IN order to check the compatibility of the upcoming launch ready devices, manufacturers must ensure a thorough testing has been done and evaluated on the device that includes –
- Call Performance 2G, 3G, 4G, VoLTE/VoWiFi, 5G
- KPIs for CSFB and VoLTE services
- FTP uploads/downloads 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G
- HTTP uploads / downloads 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G
- Video Streaming 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G
- Messaging
- Battery Performance.
Challenges faced by the Network operators
Field testing is a very essential part of a Network operator as it helps them determine the quality of their services and also helps them to compare their services with their competitors. The operators usually conduct high load testing through rf drive test tools that involves using of multiple devices at the same time to ascertain data on certain aspects of the network including new services like VoLTE,4G, 5G etc.
Assessment
Considering the current factors that come into picture with regards to Field testing, there are emerging Modern day solutions as well, one of them Being the RANTCELL Application that is a complete gamechanger when it comes to Reliability, efficiency and also is very cost effective.
The RANTCELL app works on a modern day Android smartphone and replaces the heavy hardware that was traditionally required to conduct these Field tests. it largely covers all the KPIs used by the Operators, manufacturers and also comes in hand to various other industries that require network Monitoring. It also introduces the users to whole new operational methods with features like Remote testing and Crowdsourcing playing a vital role in the future of field testing.
Since it is available in Subscription based usage models it becomes extremely convenient to choose a usage plan based on their requirements.
Conclusion
In order to make the best of the newly formed regulations and challenges due to COVID, Operators and manufacturers must now adapt to a modern day solutions in order to avoid an economic crisis and be more efficient. A lot of MNO’S and Network dependent Companies have already started the use of such applications and are finding this to be a perfect and apt alternative to the traditional testing methods. The Future of field testing has arrived and its definitely going to stay for the long run.
