A framework for the automation of LTE physical layer tests

The long term evolution (LTE) network architecture comprises, among other elements, the base station (eNodeB), which provides and controls the air interface. eNodeB protocol stack is composed of different layers, each one with specific purpose. In terms of air interface performance, the most critical layers of an eNodeB are the physical layer (PHY) and the medium access control layer (MAC). Both must operate on precise timing basis, corresponding to a frame duration of 1 ms. Because of this requirement, PHY layer developers need an effective test architecture, capable to follow time response policies. This article proposes an automated test framework for eNodeB's physical layer development, comprising procedures for checking data integrity, stability and performance. This framework is based on a simplified LTE MAC layer, which operates as a software element that communicates directly with the physical layer and performs mapping procedures between logical and physical channels, reception and transmission of physical layer data, user data scheduling and data exchange with mobile terminals. All above mentioned procedures are performed with no further dependency on other LTE network elements, thus providing a stand-alone test framework

Wireless communication, identification and sensing technologies enabling integrated logistics: a study in the harbor environment

In the last decade, integrated logistics has become an important challenge in the development of wireless communication, identification and sensing technology, due to the growing complexity of logistics processes and the increasing demand for adapting systems to new requirements. The advancement of wireless technology provides a wide range of options for the maritime container terminals. Electronic devices employed in container terminals reduce the manual effort, facilitating timely information flow and enhancing control and quality of service and decision made. In this paper, we examine the technology that can be used to support integration in harbor's logistics. In the literature, most systems have been developed to address specific needs of particular harbors, but a systematic study is missing. The purpose is to provide an overview to the reader about which technology of integrated logistics can be implemented and what remains to be addressed in the future

Mission-Critical Mobile Broadband Communications in Open Pit Mines

The need for continuous safety improvements and increased operational efficiency is driving the mining industry through a transition toward automated operations. From a communications perspective, this transition introduces a new set of high-bandwidth business-critical and mission-critical applications that need to be met by the wireless network. This article introduces fundamental concepts behind open-pit mining and discusses why this ever-changing environment and strict industrial reliability requirements pose unique challenges to traditional broadband network planning and optimization techniques. On the other hand, unlike unpredictable disaster scenarios, mining is a carefully planned activity. Taking advantage of this predictability element, we propose a framework that integrates mine and radio network planning so that continuous and automated adaptation of the radio network becomes possible. The potential benefits of this framework are evaluated by means of an illustrative example

Algorithms for advance bandwidth reservation in media production networks

Media production generally requires many geographically distributed actors (e.g., production houses, broadcasters, advertisers) to exchange huge amounts of raw video and audio data. Traditional distribution techniques, such as dedicated point-to-point optical links, are highly inefficient in terms of installation time and cost. To improve efficiency, shared media production networks that connect all involved actors over a large geographical area, are currently being deployed. The traffic in such networks is often predictable, as the timing and bandwidth requirements of data transfers are generally known hours or even days in advance. As such, the use of advance bandwidth reservation (AR) can greatly increase resource utilization and cost efficiency. In this paper, we propose an Integer Linear Programming formulation of the bandwidth scheduling problem, which takes into account the specific characteristics of media production networks, is presented. Two novel optimization algorithms based on this model are thoroughly evaluated and compared by means of in-depth simulation results