Predicting and optimising downlink capacity in a UMTS network

Equations whereby the capacity of the downlink of a UMTS network can be estimated for dimensioning purposes have been put forward. These equations have been validated by comparing estimates with values obtained using a Monte Carlo simulator. Estimates can be obtained for cells where either all users are identical or, alternatively, the user distribution is uniform throughout the network. In cases where the user distribution is nonuniform, the estimates are likely to become less accurate. An additional method that is more suitable for these situations has been explained. This involves using information from a Monte Carlo simulator in order to estimate the possible throughput when the traffic channel power on the downlink is a maximum.