W-CDMA capacity and planning issues

Third generation (3G) mobile networks are due to become reality in the next few years as governments world-wide start to auction or 'release' new spec trum to new and existing cellular operators. A major differentiation of 3G over second generation networks is the provision of multiple-data-rate serv ices, higher spectrum efficiency and greater flexibility of the air interfa ce. This paper addresses FDD W-CDMA planning and capacity estimation issues . As well as addressing the planning steps, link budgets and simplistic upl ink capacity estimation the paper goes into more detail on simulation metho ds and considerations. Finally an example W-CDMA network, based on realisti c site locations in central London, is provided. Capacity estimations are g iven with some indications of network stability and operating points.