Agilent Technologies has introduced E6474A Option 850, a handheld network monitor that enables test engineers to determine whether a network is working, which base stations are transmitting, and the base-station configuration.
The company said that the new device also allows users to take other operational measurements that do not require the laptop, phones and measurement receivers. If the new monitor detects operational issues, the information can then be transferred to Agilent’s drive test tool for complete analysis and troubleshooting.
According to the company, the new tool’s features and capabilities include: a ‘pocket multimeter’ capacity for quick network verification; built-in GPS, that eliminates the need of hardware to take measurements; indoor navigation capability that allows engineers to record location in an indoor environment; scanning capability that runs like a mini spectrum analyser to identify which base stations are transmitting and whether the base station under test is actually switched on; and multicolor display for quick visualisation of network issues.
David Stewart, general manager of Drive Test Business at Agilent, said: Although the handheld is no substitute for Agilent’s full-featured system, it makes network deployment and optimisation far more efficient by running a subset of measurements that quickly indicate when more comprehensive analysis is required.
The new monitor’s portability and ease of use can save engineers considerable time – and therefore carrier operating expenses – and adds real convenience to a complicated job.
Agilent said that the test application is installed on Nokia N85 mobiles with engineering firmware so that engineers can then run it instantly. The tool enables voice calls, FTP transfers and http browsing – all running automatically to stimulate the network for voice and data while parametric RF measurements are recorded.
