Feb 18, 2010 4:19 PM,

MWC: Tektronix touts LTE packet core testing

By Rich Karpinski

New test suite focuses on all-IP 4G network testing, including new approaches and interfaces that will challenge mobile operators

Tektronix this week debuted a new LTE monitoring solution specifically tuned to help mobile operators keep tabs on the evolved packet core networks that serve as the brain of new 4G networks.

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The new test platform is based on the vendor’s Iris Suite and includes the new GeoProbe G10, a 10GE probe; three new LTE-focused analyzer applications; and a common platform for testing current and future applications running over the network.

All-IP LTE networks pose a challenge for mobile operators not just because they represent a new technology approach but also because they are likely to coexist side-by-side with 2G/3G networks for some time.

“The promise of LTE is a lot less network complexity. And granted, if you have a pure LTE network there are fewer components and interfaces,” said Keith Cobler, marketing manager at Tektronix. However, in some cases, previously distinct boxes have been combined, such as the Node B combined with the RNC to make a single element in an LTE network. “That presents some challenges. Before, there were easy interfaces to tap into those boxes. Now they are supported via logical interfaces and there’s less ability to tap into them.”

In addition to those network element changes, other LTE operator challenges include ensuring QOS, including properly setting up and tearing down EPS bearer sessions; ensuring call handover across multiple mobile access networks; and guaranteeing voice performance of IP data networks, said Cobler.

Tektronix’s new LTE platform allows operators to manage all the new interfaces with LTE, the evolved packet core, interfaces interworking with 2G/3G/4G and additional interfaces supporting IP Multimedia Subsystem architectures, he said.

The Iris LTE EPC monitoring solution further complements Tektronix Communications’ portfolio of LTE test solutions which includes the K2Air and NSA, the only LTE protocol analysis solution available on the market supporting LTE-Seamless deep-dive monitoring of wireless and wireline LTE interfaces, including Uu interface monitoring capability.