Comparative Spectral Study of the Performance of Two LTE Networks Using a N9342C Spectrum Analyzer and User Equipment

Abstract

There are three fundamental indicators used to evaluate the coverage quality and physical performance of a Long Term Evolution (LTE) network: Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), and the Channel Power received within the LTE bandwidth. This article analyzes several practical measurement results obtained from two different LTE networks in Honduras. The analysis presents useful information, such as the RSRP and RSRQ levels for each network, with measurements taken under the same procedure to ensure comparability. Channel Power measurements were also collected using an Agilent/Keysight N9342C spectrum analyzer, employing a monopole antenna and a directional Horn antenna, while maintaining the same measurement methodology for both networks.