Telecommunications Engineering Wireless Systems

A Complete Overview of Telecom Infrastructure – From Tower to Core 1. Base Transceiver Station (BTS) – The Foundation The BTS site is the first point of contact for mobile users and includes three essential subsystems: A. Power System Ensures 24/7 operation through: • Grid Power (primary source, stepped down via transformers) • Diesel Generator (backup for outages) • Backup Batteries (DC power during failures) • ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch) (automates switching between power sources) • Power Supply Control Cabinet (converts AC to DC) • DCDU (DC Distribution Unit – powers BBUs, RRUs, etc.) B. Radio Access Network (RAN) Enables wireless access and signal processing: • RF Antennas (4G/5G communication interface) • AISG (remotely adjusts antenna tilt and alignment) • Jumper Cables (connect RRUs to antennas) • RRU (Remote Radio Unit) – manages RF signal processing • BBU (Baseband Unit) – handles digital signal processing and traffic control C. Transmission System Links BTS to the core network: • Microwave Antennas (wireless backhaul) • ODU/IDU (Outdoor & Indoor Units – convert and process microwave signals) • IF Cable (connects ODU to IDU) • Router (routes and manages data traffic) 2. Transmission & Transport Network Transports data between access points and core: • Access Network: Connects mobile devices and IoT via radio towers and fiber • Transport Network: Aggregates and transports traffic using: • Microwave Links • Optical Fiber • DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) for high-bandwidth transmission 3. Core Network – The Brain of the System Responsible for data switching, routing, and service control: • Mobile Core (EPC/5GC): Handles mobility, authentication, and session management • IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem): Supports VoIP, video calls, and messaging • PCRF/PCF: Policy and charging control • HSS/UDM: Subscriber database and identity management • Gateways (SGW, PGW/UPF): Connect mobile users to external networks 4. Service & Application Layer Where services are hosted and managed: • Data Centers: Host platforms for: • Billing & Charging • Content Delivery (VoD, streaming) • Security & Firewalls • Network Slicing & Cloud Platforms • Edge Computing: Brings processing closer to users for low latency 5. Network Operations & Management Ensures performance, reliability, and optimization: • NOC (Network Operations Center): Central monitoring and fault resolution • OSS/BSS Systems: Support operations and business functions • EMS/NMS: Element and network-level management tools • AI/ML: Used for predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and optimization Common Physical Components Throughout the Network • Fiber Optics / Patch Cords • CPRI/eCPRI Links (for fronthaul between RRU & BBU) • Ethernet Switches • Racks & Cabinets • GPS/Clock Synchronization Equipment This ecosystem enables seamless voice, data, and video services across billions of connected devices globally.

Polish researchers have pinpointed the exact locations of Russia's GPS jamming operations in the Baltic Sea region, revealing a sophisticated electronic warfare campaign that has disrupted thousands of flights and ships since Ukraine's invasion began. Using triangulation from monitoring stations around Gdansk Bay, the team traced jamming signals to two key locations in Russia's Kaliningrad exclave - near the Okunevo antenna site and the port town of Baltiysk. Both areas house known electronic warfare units and military installations. The interference has evolved from simple signal blocking to more advanced "spoofing" - falsifying GPS readings to make vessels believe they're somewhere they're not. This has forced flight cancellations, airport closures, and ships to veer dangerously off course across the Baltic region. While eight European countries have formally complained to the UN about Russia's "hybrid warfare" tactics, researchers suggest the #jamming may primarily target drone navigation systems, with civilian disruption being collateral damage. The solution? A return to older navigation methods. Projects like Germany's R-Mode Baltic are deploying land-based beacon systems as #GPS alternatives, while countries from the UK to South Korea develop their own terrestrial #navigation backups. As one researcher noted: "People have gotten so used to satellite navigation" - but perhaps it's time to remember how to navigate without it.

Network Optimization Process - 4G/5G Network Optimization is vital for ensuring that 4G/5G wireless networks deliver the best possible performance, efficiency, and user experience. By continuously fine-tuning network parameters and configurations, operators can meet the evolving demands of users, applications, and regulatory requirements, ultimately driving the success and competitiveness of their network deployments. Below outlined the high level steps involved in optimizing 4G/5G network, from the activation of a new site to ensuring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are met: 1. New Site On Air: Install and activate the new site hardware and software. Ensure connectivity to the core network. 2. Single Site Verification: Perform initial checks to verify site functionality. Check hardware and software configuration. Check planned parameters & configuration are implemented or not Verify connectivity and basic services. Check for any BTS related alarms including VSWR 3. Cluster Readiness: Ensure multiple sites once verified separately will also be checked in a cluster Verify synchronization with neighboring sites. Check handover and inter-site mobility. Ensure inter-technology movement parameters are set appropriately 4. RF Optimization: Conduct Radio Frequency (RF) optimization to enhance coverage and capacity. Adjust antenna tilt and azimuth. Optimize soft parameters including transmit power levels. Mitigate interference issues. 5. Service Test and Parameter Tuning: Conduct service testing to ensure all services are functioning correctly. Adjust network parameters for optimal performance. Tune Quality of Service (QoS) parameters. Verify signaling and data flow. 6. KPI Performance Met: Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as accessibility, mobility, retainability, integrity Analyze KPI data to ensure they meet predefined thresholds. Fine-tune network settings (including physical and soft parameters) if KPIs are not met. Continuously monitor and optimize network performance. Throughout this process, it's important to iterate and revisit steps as necessary, especially as network traffic patterns change or new challenges arise. Additionally, collaboration between different teams such as RF engineering, transport, core network, and service assurance is crucial for effective network optimization. Note – Above key steps may change slightly as per different vendors/telcos. To learn more about the network optimization end to end, refer to the course - https://lnkd.in/e9TpSHzF https://lnkd.in/evFaDyGr

5G Testing: Do’s & Don’ts for Effective Network Validation 🚀 5G is more than just speed—it’s about reliability, performance, and seamless connectivity. But ensuring a flawless 5G experience requires rigorous testing to optimize network efficiency, security, and interoperability. Here’s a quick guide to what you must do and avoid when testing 5G networks: ✅ Do’s – Best Practices for 5G Testing 1️⃣ Follow 3GPP Standards – Always align tests with the latest 3GPP releases (Rel-15, 16, 17+). 2️⃣ Use Multiple Test Scenarios – Test under real-world conditions (urban, rural, indoor, and extreme environments). 3️⃣ Check Frequency Bands – Validate performance across low, mid, and high bands (FR1 & FR2). 4️⃣ Perform Interoperability Testing – Ensure smooth device compatibility across multiple networks and vendors. 5️⃣ Optimize Throughput & Latency – Measure KPI metrics like RSRP, SINR, BLER, jitter, and handover time. 6️⃣ Use Real Devices & Emulators – Conduct field tests using UEs, network simulators, and drive testing tools. 7️⃣ Perform Mobility & Handover Tests – Validate seamless cell transitions in high-speed mobility scenarios. 8️⃣ Monitor Network Security – Test for encryption, authentication, and vulnerability threats. 9️⃣ Stay Updated with Industry Trends – Keep track of advancements in URLLC, Open RAN, Network Slicing, and AI-driven networks. ❌ Don’ts – Common Mistakes to Avoid 1️⃣ Ignore Network Conditions – Always test under varied network loads, congestion, and interference. 2️⃣ Rely Only on Lab Testing – Field testing is crucial to validate real-world performance. 3️⃣ Overlook Call Flow Analysis – Debug issues using tools like QXDM, QCAT, Wireshark, and DS-5. 4️⃣ Miss KPI Benchmarks – Validate throughput, latency, and drop rate thresholds for optimized performance. 5️⃣ Forget Compliance Requirements – Ensure device compliance with operator and global regulatory standards. 6️⃣ Neglect Power Consumption – Optimize energy efficiency for better device and network sustainability. 7️⃣ Skip Edge & Core Testing – Validate MEC (Multi-Access Edge Computing) and 5G Core functions. 8️⃣ Disregard mmWave Performance – Test for beamforming, penetration loss, and coverage limitations. 9️⃣ Ignore AI & Automation in 5G – Leverage AI-driven optimizations for predictive maintenance and network efficiency. Mastering 5G testing requires a mix of technical expertise, real-world validation, and continuous learning. #5G #Telecom #WirelessTesting #NetworkOptimization #5GTechnology

India just crossed a major milestone in the race for quantum-secure communication — and it's not science fiction anymore. DRDO & IIT Delhi have successfully demonstrated Quantum Entanglement-Based Free-Space Secure Communication — over 1 km using an optical link on campus. Here’s why these matters: 1) Entangled photons were used to create secure cryptographic keys 2) No optical fiber needed — it worked over free space. 3) Achieved ~240 bits/sec secure key rate. 4) Quantum Bit Error Rate was below 7%. So, what’s the big deal? 1) It proves that we can build secure communication systems without needing underground cables — perfect for difficult terrains, defense zones, or remote areas. 2) Even if someone tries to intercept the message, the quantum state changes — making the intrusion detectable. 3) It’s another step toward building the Quantum Internet in India. The work was led by Prof. Bhaskar Kanseri’s team at IIT Delhi and supported by DRDO under its “Centres of Excellence” initiative. #QuantumComputing #QuantumCommunication #DRDO #IITDelhi #QuantumIndia #QuantumSecurity #Photonics #Research #QuantumInternet

Navigation Without GNSS: The New Operational Standard in Drone Warfare The war in Ukraine has proven that the era of UAVs relying solely on GNSS is over. The battlespace is saturated with electronic warfare systems that disrupt satellite signals across multiple frequencies. In this environment, even advanced CRPA antennas with eight elements have become ineffective. Jamming now comes from multiple directions with overwhelming power, rendering traditional spatial filtering obsolete. A recent case on the Sumy axis illustrates the shift. After a Superkam (Skat) UAV was shot down, investigators found a high-precision altimeter and an onboard microcomputer. This indicates the use of terrain-referenced navigation—specifically, digital elevation models (DEMs) that allow a UAV to determine its position by comparing terrain profiles rather than relying on external signals. Once reserved for cruise missiles (like TERCOM), this technology has now been adapted for tactical drones. This is no longer experimental. UAVs like the V2U have been operating with terrain-matching capabilities for over a year. In parallel, visual navigation using EO or IR cameras with SLAM algorithms is gaining traction. These systems allow drones to localize themselves by comparing live camera feeds to reference imagery, even in complete GNSS denial. Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) provide short-term positional awareness using internal sensors. Though they suffer from drift, they are highly valuable when fused with other data sources—terrain, visual, or barometric. Advanced UAVs now rely on multi-sensor fusion: combining INS, altimeters, EO/IR imagery, and map data to create resilient, redundant navigation systems. A growing trend is local radio-based navigation using pseudo-satellites, RF beacons, or LTE/5G triangulation. In combat zones, however, reliance on national infrastructure is impractical. Instead, tactical forces must create their own positioning grid, using UAVs or ground-based transmitters. This evolution demands a new mindset. Enhancing GNSS resilience is no longer enough. The very architecture of navigation must be rethought. Resilience must come from independence, not reinforcement. Key implications: All medium- and long-range UAVs must support GNSS-free navigation. Terrain and visual databases are now strategic assets. INS and onboard computing are essential, not optional. Command systems must assume operations in GNSS-denied environments as the norm, not the exception. In modern warfare, the winner won’t be the one with the strongest signal—but the one who no longer needs it. Autonomous navigation in signal-denied environments will define next-generation UAV effectiveness. If you’re designing a drone today, the first question should be: How will it navigate when nothing works? Because that is the new baseline.

I'm just looking through some old presentations of mine, either made at conferences or in client workshops. I'm going to start putting up some of the slides that I use, just so people can get a bit of a flavour of what I talk about. This is one I used a while back, to discuss what I'm seeing with #private5G and #privateLTE networks. In essence, there are now multiple separate segments, with various complex overlaps The 3 main types I'm seeing are: - Critical networks, for major industrial sites, transport hubs, public safety, defence and similar uses. Often there's a high importance of push-to-talk/video with handhelds, but also vehicular gateways and increasing use of security cameras, drones and the like - Cloud and IT/IoT #privatewireless probably gets the most attention as it spans lots of different areas, and is the one that has (some) overlap with #WiFi. It's mostly used for business-related applications and devices such as AGVs, manufacturing automation, various video-camera use cases, devices like payment terminals and display screens and so on. - Neutral Host is growing in importance - and is likely to take a lot of attention over the next 12-24 months, as concepts such as MOCN gateways using a shared private network hooked back to multiple MNO / public network cores start to evolve and mature. It's mostly a US/CBRS thing at present, but that may change in markets like UK and Germany in future Outdoor, metro and municipal P5G is growing - most obviously for FWA usage, which is sort of "semi-private", but also with local authorities starting to deploy networks for education, healthcare and smart-city purposes, or even for support of local events and festivals. The UK has quite a few examples of this. Wi-Fi integration is evolving slowly, and mostly fits with the #neutralhost and IT-type deployments. There are many models here, some of them "loosely coupled" and others focusing on much tighter integration. We're still at very early stages for #5G public-MNO #networkslicing being a viable alternative to dedicated private networks, especially in situations where extra network engineering and coverage on an industrial site would be required. It might work for big public venues and specific application needs (eg "fan apps" at sports events). At the moment, my idea of Free 5G hotspots hasn't arrived yet - although some of the ill-fated decentralised approaches are getting closer. Once we have 5G NR-U in bands supported in devices, things could change. Maybe 6GHz, or perhaps someone could do something clever with CBRS GAA? If you're interested in understanding this chart more - and especially the new areas or the asymmetrical overlaps, please get in touch. And if you'd like to get a speaker for one of your events, or an internal workshop or management offsite, you can expect this type of insight, based on 20+ years tracking private cellular evolution. I've been following this since 2001.

📡 Ukrainian FPVs Now Hunt Russian Kamikaze Drones Using Electronic Warfare ▪️ Ukrainian forces have started using small 5W jamming modules mounted on FPV drones to intercept and down Russian "Molniya-2" kamikaze UAVs. ▪️ These Russian drones transmit telemetry back to their operators — a vulnerability that Ukraine is now exploiting for targeted jamming. 🔍 How it works: The Molniya UAV’s telemetry reveals the frequency and signature of the onboard control receiver. Ukrainian spectrum analyzers can detect these patterns in real time. This enables FPV operators to load specific jamming profiles into their drones, tuned to a narrow bandwidth of just a few MHz. ⚠️ A small jammer on the FPV is enough to break the command link, sending the enemy drone off-course or into the ground. 💬 One Ukrainian EW specialist remarked: “Their telemetry is a fingerprint. Once we see it, we know how to kill it.” 🧠 Why it matters: This is low-cost, ultra-targeted EW — a leap forward in tactical drone warfare. Ukraine is not just defending with jammers — it’s offensively intercepting enemy UAVs mid-flight using drone-mounted signal warfare. It’s another sign that electronic warfare is no longer a domain of heavy trucks and towers — but something a $500 drone can carry into battle. #ElectronicWarfare #FPV #Ukraine #DroneWar #Molniya #UAV #Jamming #TelemetryHacking #DroneVsDrone #EWInnovation #SignalWarfare

The role of vias and their effective parameters in microwave circuits: Vias are small plated holes that allow #signals to pass through the various layers of the #PCB. In #microwave #circuits, vias play a crucial role in providing #electrical connections between different layers of the circuit board. The effectiveness of vias is determined by various parameters such as via diameter, via pad size, via placement, and via impedance matching. Proper design and #optimization of these via parameters are essential to ensure #signalintegrity, minimize signal loss, and achieve optimal performance in microwave circuits. Effective via parameters are critical in the design and optimization of microwave circuits. Some key parameters to consider include: 1. Via Diameter: The via diameter is an important factor in determining the impedance of the signal path. A smaller via diameter is generally preferred in #rf and microwave circuits as it helps reduce parasitic capacitance and inductance, which can degrade signal quality at high frequencies. Smaller via diameters also allow for higher-density routing, which is beneficial for compact circuit designs. However, smaller via diameters can increase fabrication complexity and cost. 2. Via Spacing: Via spacing is crucial for preventing #interference and minimizing crosstalk. Proper spacing between vias helps maintain signal integrity and ensures that signals propagate without distortion. The spacing between vias is determined by factors such as the substrate material properties, the #frequency of operation, and the desired signal isolation. Designers must balance the need for sufficient spacing to prevent interference with the desire for compact circuit layouts to optimize performance. 3. Via Pad Size: The size of the via pad, which is the copper area surrounding the via hole, influences the electrical connection and signal transmission. A larger via pad size helps in reducing impedance variations and improving signal integrity. 4. Via Placement: Proper placement of vias is crucial to minimize signal reflections, crosstalk, and impedance mismatches. Vias should be strategically placed to ensure efficient signal routing and minimize signal distortion. 5. Via Impedance Matching: Matching the impedance of the via with the surrounding transmission lines is essential for minimizing signal reflections and ensuring efficient signal transmission. Proper impedance matching helps in maintaining signal integrity and reducing signal loss. 6. Via Material: The choice of via material can impact the performance of grounded vias in microwave circuits. Conductive materials with low resistivity and high conductivity are preferred to minimize signal loss and maintain signal quality. By carefully considering these key parameters and optimizing the design of vias in microwave circuits, engineers can effectively enhance signal integrity, reduce #electromagnetic interference, and improve the overall performance of the circuit.

TELCO WARNING: SPEED IS NO LONGER ENOUGH We used to race for speed. Each generation of mobile tech came with the promise of “faster.” And we delivered—brilliantly. Today, 5G median download speeds surpass 200 Mbps in many markets. That’s enough to stream 13 Netflix shows in 4K. Simultaneously. On paper, it’s a victory lap. But consumers? They barely noticed. Why? We’ve hit the point where speed is no longer scarce. The bottleneck has moved. Now it’s about consistency, reliability, and the invisible moments that shape the experience: that Zoom call glitch mid-pitch, the lost signal of Waze when you're late, the buffering wheel during a Champions League final. Only 19% of users care about speed. Two-thirds care about cost. And when asked what keeps them loyal, the answer is not Mbps but reliability. Opensignal’s Excellent Consistent Quality (ECQ) metric shows that churn drops dramatically when networks deliver even just 80% “good enough” experiences. Telcos are no longer judged by peak performance, but by predictability. This changes everything. 5G wasn’t meant to just be “faster.” It was meant to be smarter. Better coverage, higher reliability and consistent quality is the new battlefield. Nevertheless, many telcos still market Gs as horsepower in a world that’s already at the speed limit. The question Telcos should be asking isn’t “How fast is fast enough?” It’s “What matters now?” A good example is Fixed Wireless Access. FWA It’s not trying to win a speed race, but winning over consumers through ease, availability, and price. 5G should deliver value, not velocity. This is an important aspect to have in mind when we look at monetization and next developments like 6G.