Geolocation of WiMAX subscriber stations based on the timing adjust ranging parameter

This paper examines the geolocation of standard compliant WiMAX subscriber stations based on timing adjust values captured from the air interface during network entry and initial ranging. Field tests were conducted to verify a linear correlation between timing adjust and distance. Repeated observations at fixed distances established the variance within timing adjusts. Results of this field testing were extended to multiple base station networks modeled in computer simulation, ultimately suggesting the possibility for geolocations based on WiMAX initial ranging with ten times greater accuracy then similar methods applied to GSM.