Why is Network Design Prediction Accuracy So Important?

In today’s interconnected world, network infrastructure is the backbone that enables seamless communication and connectivity. Whether it’s wireless networks, telecommunications, or smart buildings, the design and optimization of network systems are critical for delivering reliable and efficient connectivity. Among the various factors that contribute to successful network design, prediction accuracy stands out as a vital aspect. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of network design prediction accuracy and why it is crucial for ensuring optimal network performance.

The Impact of Network Design Prediction Accuracy

Cost-Effective Planning and Deployment:

Accurate prediction of network performance allows for cost-effective planning and deployment. By obtaining precise estimates of factors such as signal strength, coverage areas, capacity requirements, and potential interference, network designers can optimize the placement of equipment and allocate resources efficiently. This helps to avoid costly mistakes during the design and implementation phases, ultimately saving time and money.

Optimal Network Performance:

Network design prediction accuracy is directly linked to achieving optimal network performance. Accurate predictions enable designers to identify and address potential issues or bottlenecks before the network is deployed. By accurately estimating coverage areas, signal propagation, and interference levels, designers can fine-tune the network architecture to ensure seamless connectivity, minimal latency, and high-speed data transfer. This leads to an enhanced user experience and increased productivity.

User Satisfaction and Productivity:

The success of any network design depends on user satisfaction and productivity. Accurate prediction of network performance helps ensure that users have consistent and reliable connectivity. By anticipating potential coverage gaps or areas with poor signal strength, network designers can optimize the network layout, adjust antenna placement, and make informed decisions about infrastructure upgrades.

This results in improved user satisfaction, increased productivity, and reduced frustration due to connectivity issues. The Term “Users” also has an evolving definition, “Users” in the past was often thought of as human device-carrying individuals, but with the onset of IOT and Smart systems, machines are also now bandwidth-hungry “Users”. Accurate prediction and network performance are essential to ensure these hungry devices are fed and perform the smart tasks they were designed to do.

Future-Proofing and Scalability:

Network design prediction accuracy plays a crucial role in future-proofing network infrastructure. By accurately estimating future demands, such as increased user growth, changing usage patterns, or technological advancements, designers can plan for scalability and accommodate future needs. Accurate predictions allow for the implementation of network architectures that can handle evolving requirements without requiring significant redesign or costly upgrades.

This proactive approach ensures that the network remains efficient and adaptable in the face of emerging technologies and increasing demands. Early planning also enables users to consider the interoperability of future systems. Without pre-emptive planning, coordinating the various future IOT and smart systems and ensuring their compatibility with each other and the overall network can become a daunting task.

The Role of iBwave’s Prediction Accuracy

iBwave, a leading provider of software solutions for in-building network design and planning, has a remarkable class-based approach to prediction accuracy. By eliminating the fast fading component and applying a sophisticated “smoothing” algorithm to field data, iBwave ensures highly accurate predictions tailored to specific classes of areas.

iBwave’s Results

The results obtained from iBwave Design prediction accuracy testing demonstrate its impressive performance across various frequencies and venues. From 700 MHz to 28 GHz, the prediction mean error mostly falls within the -4 to 5 dB range, with absolute mean error primarily in the 4 to 6 dB range. The standard deviation is typically within 3 to 6 dB. These values are applicable to iBwave‘s default, non-calibrated FRT (Fast Ray Tracing) prediction.

It is essential to note that calibration can further enhance accuracy by 0.5 to 2 dB. iBwave’s calibrated FRT prediction offers even more precise estimates, meeting the demands of today’s complex network design requirements.

About Fast Ray Tracing

Fast Ray Tracing (FRT) is a powerful prediction modeling technique utilized by iBwave, which accurately traces electromagnetic waves’ paths in complex environments, considering reflections and diffractions. Its efficiency in generating precise predictions enables network designers to optimize plans quickly and deploy cost-effective, high-performing networks. This makes iBwave’s FRT a valuable tool for creating seamless and reliable connectivity experiences.

Example:

Network design in a highly reflective warehouse environment using one AP with no reflections and diffractions considered compared to a design considering reflections and diffractions. You can see in the images below how the signal reflects and diffracts of the surfaces resulting in more coverage in adjacent rows. Designing without considering reflections and diffractions (image on the left) may lead to overdesigning your network and, ultimately, higher costs.

Reflections and Diffractions NOT Considered

iBwave has several ways of achieving the highest prediction accuracy. Read more in our blog!

Conclusion

In conclusion, network design prediction accuracy is a crucial factor in delivering efficient and reliable network infrastructures. The ability to anticipate network performance, optimize resources, and future-proof the infrastructure ensures cost-effective planning, user satisfaction, and scalability. iBwave’s class-based approach and impressive results showcase its commitment to providing accurate and efficient network design solutions. As the demand for seamless connectivity continues to grow, iBwave’s prediction accuracy remains an essential tool in building the networks of tomorrow.

To learn more about iBwave Design prediction accuracy, read our full white paper written by Vladan Jevremovic and Ali Jemmali!

The Importance of Private 5G for Enterprises: Unlocking the Future of Connectivity

In the fast-paced digital era, technology continues to shape the way businesses operate and communicate. Among the revolutionary innovations, Private 5G stands out as a game-changer, offering unprecedented opportunities for enterprises. This fifth-generation cellular network has the potential to transform industries, increase productivity, unleash a wave of new applications and services, and do so in a cost-effective manner. In this blog, we will explore the key aspects of why Private 5G is of paramount importance for enterprises.

Why Should Enterprises Deploy Private 5G?

Faster Speeds and Low Latency for Real-time Applications

At the heart of Private 5G lies its remarkable speed and ultra-low latency. Compared to its predecessor, 4G LTE, Private 5G can deliver data at astounding rates, reaching up to 100 times faster speeds. This instant connectivity allows businesses to transmit and process large volumes of data in real-time. The low latency ensures near-instantaneous response times, crucial for critical applications, such as remote surgery, autonomous vehicles, and real-time industrial automation.

Enhanced Capacity and Efficiency for Improved Productivity

With the growing demand for data and the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, network capacity becomes a vital concern for enterprises. Private 5G offers enhanced network capacity, enabling a massive number of devices to connect simultaneously. This capacity boost translates to better performance and a more reliable network, ultimately leading to increased efficiency and productivity in various industries.

IoT and Industry 4.0 Revolution: Optimizing Operations

The combination of 5G and the IoT has the potential to unlock the full potential of Industry 4.0. Smart factories, connected supply chains, and IoT-driven logistics are just a few examples of how enterprises can leverage 5G’s capabilities. The seamless connectivity and real-time data processing of 5G empower industries to optimize operations, reduce downtime, and achieve unparalleled levels of automation.

Innovative Use Cases: Delivering Cutting-edge Services

Private 5G opens doors to a plethora of innovative use cases that were previously inconceivable. From augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications to immersive customer experiences, Private 5G enables businesses to deliver cutting-edge services. For example, retailers can offer interactive AR shopping experiences, and healthcare providers can conduct remote medical consultations with superior quality and real-time interactions.

Edge Computing Advancements: Reducing Latency and Improving Security

5G facilitates the widespread adoption of edge computing, bringing data processing closer to the point of generation. By reducing the distance data needs to travel, enterprises can experience even lower latency and improved security. Edge computing also reduces the burden on centralized cloud servers, making data processing more efficient and cost-effective.

Enhanced Security: Safeguarding Sensitive Data

Data security is a top concern for enterprises in today’s digital landscape. Private 5G introduces new security features that help protect sensitive data and safeguard against cyber threats. With the advent of network slicing, businesses can create dedicated virtual networks, each with its security and privacy settings, tailored to the specific needs of different applications or user groups.

Cost-Effectiveness

While implementing new technologies may seem expensive at first, Private 5G brings long-term cost-effectiveness to enterprises. Its high capacity and efficiency enable businesses to handle more data and applications on the same network infrastructure, reducing the need for costly expansions. Moreover, 5G’s low latency and improved reliability can lead to reduced downtime, minimizing financial losses due to network outages or disruptions.

When to Use Multiple Technologies

While Private 5G offers an array of benefits, there may be situations where using multiple technologies becomes advantageous. For example, some enterprises may have legacy systems in place that are not compatible with 5G. In such cases, integrating multiple technologies allows for a gradual migration and avoids disruptive transitions. Additionally, certain applications may require specific connectivity options that are better served by other wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or LoRa. A thoughtful approach to network design and integration can ensure seamless coexistence and synergy among different technologies, optimizing overall performance and efficiency.

Why Should Enterprises Design 5G/LTE Private Networks?

Designing Private 5G and LTE networks is paramount for enterprises seeking enhanced connectivity, real-time applications, and heightened security. A well-planned network architecture ensures optimized performance, avoiding over-designing or under-designing the network, and ultimately leading to time and cost savings.

In this pursuit, iBwave stands out as a game-changing solution. With unparalleled prediction accuracy and a seamless, user-friendly experience, iBwave empowers businesses to effortlessly design private 5G, LTE, and Wi-Fi networks together, offering a complete and reliable solution. Embrace the power of iBwave to unlock the full potential of private 5G and LTE, driving digital transformation with confidence and efficiency while optimizing costs. Read more about our solution for designing private networks here!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Private 5G stands as a pivotal enabler of innovation and efficiency for enterprises, revolutionizing how businesses operate and communicate. Its exceptional speed, low latency, and robust security make it a game-changer, supporting a wide array of applications and use-cases that drive digital transformation. However, enterprises should also recognize the value of integrating multiple network technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Private LTE, or even satellite connectivity, to create versatile and resilient hybrid networks. By harnessing the power of Private 5G while judiciously incorporating other wireless solutions where appropriate, enterprises can build a future-proof connectivity infrastructure that unlocks endless possibilities for growth and success in the ever-evolving business landscape.

To learn more about 5G and the key use cases, read our eBook on Integrating & Operating 5G Use Cases And Managing Multiple Network Technologies.

How to Design Private Networks for Manufacturing

Private networks are part of critical infrastructure improvements in manufacturing. Private 4G/5G networks provide reliable connectivity to overcome coverage challenges in manufacturing facilities, like construction that often includes metal, concrete, screening, and pipework. Private networks for manufacturing provide secure and reliable communication between machines, allowing for automation and efficient data transfer.

By using private networks in manufacturing operations, industrial organizations can also benefit from improved performance and reduced costs. Security features, such as authentication and encryption, are key components of private networks, enabling secure communication and limiting the risk of cyber-attacks.

Additionally, with private networks, organizations can optimize their network infrastructure and customize it to their specific needs. Private networks also provide better control over network performance, allowing for higher data speeds and better coverage.

Manufacturing requires a sophisticated network infrastructure. This infrastructure often includes integration with operational technology like IoT and automation systems, as well as more conventional IT and telecommunication needs.

Manufacturing assets are also becoming more connected, data-driven and interconnected across broad supply chains. As the industry transforms there is an increased need for high-capacity and low-latency reliable connectivity. Accurate private networks in manufacturing can help enterprises avoid the extremely high costs of downtime and provide complete control of data assets.

Radio Frequency (RF) engineers and operations must work together to create the optimal private wireless network to guarantee the highest level of performance possible.

Designing a private wireless network in manufacturing environments requires careful consideration of the environment, power requirements, signal propagation characteristics, antenna placement, security measures, and other factors. It is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of all the components that make up a wireless system.

Often multiple technologies will be used in combination, with a variety of integration or gateway approaches needed to combine technologies like Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS), 4G, 5G, or Wi-F-6/6E. iBwave offers certification programs for designing in-building wireless network projects, site surveys, and the fundamentals of testing. This article will provide an overview of the process needed to design private networks for use in manufacturing environments.

Determining Requirements

The first step in designing a private wireless network for manufacturing is to determine what type of system is required. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, different types of systems may be necessary.

It is essential to understand what types of devices will be connected to ensure that there are no compatibility issues when choosing hardware or software solutions.

You also must make sure that the designed network provides the required KPI’s (Key Performance Indicators) regarding signal strength, throughput and latency for all of those devices.

Devices and applications may include:

Proximity & Stop functions for worker safety.

Automation systems to control industrial production machinery.

Process monitoring

Automatic Guided Vehicles

Robotics for assembly and welding

Asset tracking and positioning

Human/Machine Interfaces

Video Surveillance

Site-wide communications networks

Additionally, it is important to understand current regulations regarding frequency, usage, and licensing (signal leakage, EMF) before beginning any network design or installation process.

Site layout

Once these initial steps have been completed, it is time to begin designing the physical layout of the network itself. iBwave’s Network design solutions allow you to upload floor plans or photos of site locations to design your network and automatically calculate coverage.

iBwave’s software allows you to model antenna placement to optimize coverage and performance while minimizing interference from other radio signals or environmental elements such as infrastructure in the building itself.

Power

Power requirements must also be considered when deciding on an antenna placement strategy. Some installations may require additional power sources due to their distance from existing outlets or wiring limitations.

Security

Security is also an important consideration. Comprehensive security protocols must be implemented to protect sensitive proprietary information within the network as well as prevent malicious actors from gaining unauthorized access.

Robust security requires careful selection and configuration of encryption protocols as well as authentication mechanisms based on user roles within each organization’s internal IT structure.

By combining these elements into one cohesive plan, engineers can create robust and secure private cellular networks that meet industry standards while providing maximum performance.

Design Considerations for Private Networks for Manufacturing

When designing a private cellular network for manufacturing, there are several key considerations to consider.

Spectrum

First, engineers and IT professionals must consider the available spectrum, the frequency band that the network will be operating on. A wide range of frequencies are available for use with private networks, for example for 5G in the sub 6GHz (FR1) and mmWave (FR2) band. It’s important to select the ones which are suitable for the particular application.

Frequency

The second consideration when designing a private cellular network is the frequency of operation.

Depending on the application, different frequencies may be more suitable than others. Frequency selection should consider factors such as signal strength and interference characteristics to provide optimal performance.

Location

Finally, another important design consideration is location.

Radio transmitters must be positioned appropriately to guarantee maximum coverage area while minimizing interference from other networks or signals in the area. Proper placement of antennas can also help reduce noise levels and improve overall signal quality.

iBwave software uses advanced 3D modeling to predict coverage and advanced capacity simulations for radio transmitters to determine the ideal locations in your designs.

Challenges in Designing Private Networks for Manufacturing

When designing a private cellular network for manufacturing, there are challenges that come with creating a reliable connection.

Connectivity, coverage, and security are all key aspects of any wireless network and need to be considered when planning out the system design.

Connectivity

Connectivity is the most important aspect of any wireless network. In industrial settings, poor connectivity leads to data loss, disruption of services, and lost productivity.

Engineers must make sure that networks can provide the required bandwidth and latency to support the desired applications. They should also consider factors such as interference from other networks. Physical obstacles such as buildings, machinery, and the terrain between the small cells or antennas and the end-devices should be modeled in the software for accurate network design and reliable connectivity.

Coverage

Coverage is another critical factor in providing network reliability. To provide adequate coverage, engineers must consider factors such as transmitter power levels, antenna placement, and frequency selection.

Additionally, they should consider what type of radio waves will be used for transmission. Line-of-sight or non-line-of-sight propagation methods can have a significant impact on overall coverage area.

Security

Finally, security is essential for any private wireless network for manufacturing purposes.

Access control measures (such as authentication protocols) should be in place to protect against unauthorized access to confidential data or resources. Encryption technologies (such as TLS/SSL) should also be employed to prevent eavesdropping on communication links; and firewalls should be implemented at each access point.

Additionally, physical security measures (such as camera surveillance) may be necessary depending on the environment in which the system will operate.

The Design Process

The design process for a private cellular network for manufacturing can be divided into three distinct phases: spectrum selection, frequency planning, and infrastructure deployment.

Spectrum Selection

The first step in designing a private cellular network is to select the right spectrum. The application requirements, signal strength, and interference characteristics of available frequencies should be considered when selecting the spectrum.

The selected spectrum must provide enough bandwidth for the desired application and should also anticipate future expansion plans. Regulatory requirements also need to be adhered to for the chosen frequency range.

The next step is to consider the antenna type and size required for the chosen spectrum. The antenna size and shape should be in line with the range, performance, and power requirements of the system. Antennas should be optimized to meet the needs of the application and reduce interference.

iBwave software can be used to design and plan the number of antennas and the location of each antenna to ensure proper coverage and signal strength in all areas.

Frequency Planning

Once the spectrum has been selected, engineers must then plan the frequency of operation to maximize signal quality and minimize interference from other networks.

Frequency planning involves selecting an appropriate combination of transmitter power levels, antenna placement, and channel spacing that will provide adequate coverage while minimizing noise levels.

Additionally, measures such as directional antennas or additional repeaters may be necessary to provide reliable coverage over larger areas or through obstructions such as walls or hillsides.

Engineers must also analyze the environment to assess potential sources of interference and develop strategies to reduce or mitigate them. Mitigation might involve limiting the transmission power of nearby base stations, using directional antennas, or adding filters or shielding to reduce interference.

By making sure that the system is properly configured and optimized, engineers can ensure that the network will be reliable and provide quality service to its users.

Infrastructure Deployment

The final phase of designing a private cellular network involves deploying the necessary infrastructure components such as base stations, small cells, access points (AP’s), and transceivers. It is important that these components are properly installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications to provide optimal performance and reliability.

Additionally, proper maintenance should also be carried out regularly to maintain optimal performance over time.

Finally, measures such as access control systems, encryption technologies, firewalls, and physical security devices may also need to be implemented depending on the environment and application requirements.

Conclusion

Designing a private network for manufacturing is a complex and challenging process, but one that can lead to greater efficiency, reliability, and security. Proper spectrum selection and frequency planning is essential to guarantee the desired performance and coverage levels are met. Additionally, infrastructure deployment needs to be carefully planned to maximize signal quality and reduce noise levels.

Overall, RF engineers and IT professionals need to have a comprehensive understanding of the available technologies and their associated challenges to successfully design a private cellular network for manufacturing.

A successful private cellular network for manufacturing requires a thorough and disciplined approach that combines a deep knowledge of RF engineering, IT expertise, and a clear understanding of the system’s requirements.

iBwave’s solutions help to simplify and improve the private network design process. With the right planning and resources, it is possible to create a secure, reliable efficient network that meets the needs of the manufacturing environment.

To learn more about design considerations in private networks for manufacturing, watch our on-demand webinar: https://bit.ly/3X5zXK2