An experimental evaluation of impact of synchronization on GSM network performance

Many articles have been published on TDM SDH backhaul synchronization and few on GSM network (NW synchronization), but very few articles have appeared on experimental trails conducted to show the impact of clock quality and Synchronization on GSM network performance specifically with regard to network hygiene and call quality(call drops and hand overs). In this paper an experimental trail conducted in India in one of the GSM network managed by a service provider, to assess the impact of Sync clock quality of a BSC (Base station controller), on GSM network performance is presented. Various methods which could be adapted for evaluation of GSM TDM network synchronization performance like clock quality, alarms, and DAC word etc. are also presented. Finally impact of Clock synchronization on some of the GSM network RF (Radio frequency) KPIs (Key performance indicators) like Hand over success rate (HOSR), Traffic channel Success rate (TCHSR), Standalone dedicated control channel completion rate (SDCCHCR) and on reduction of synchronization failure alarms to improve network hygiene is presented. In addition various issues with regard to GSM network synchronization are also discussed.