RF System Design Procedures

The RF system design procedures associated with a third-generation (3G)
system design are similar to those followed for a second-generation (2G) or
even first-generation (1G) wireless system. Amazing similarities exist
between implementing 2.5/3 G into an existing system, as was the case
when 2G was introduced into cellular systems.
Fundamentally, a wireless communication system has three possible system
designs:
■ Existing system expansion
■ New system design
■ Introduction of a new technology platform to an existing system
The radio system design needs to factor in to the process all the components
that comprise the path the radio signal takes, as well as how the individual
base stations are integrated into a larger system. The specific
procedures that need to be followed vary depending on the market, the individual
technology platform being installed, and the type of legacy system
that is in place, if any. However, basic procedures should be followed and
they are listed in this section. It is important to restate that you need to
know what your objective is from the onset of the design process, and that
objective needs to be linked to the business and marketing plans for the company. Following the direction of design discovery (we will build it and
they will come) has seen some very negative consequences in the wireless
industry to date.
With that said, this chapter is a brief list of the general design procedures
that need to be performed whether the system is for a new or existing
2.5 or 3G system. If, as in most cases, you first migrate from a 2G to a
2.5 platform, and then from a 2.5 to a 3G, the design procedure to follow is
that of introducing new technology for both scenarios.