LTE network planning challenges

As part of its preparations for an auction of slots in the 790-862 MHz range, Norwegian spectrum regulator NPT asked ATDI to identify any potential interference problems involving this band and those adjacent. Specifically, ATDI assessed the potential impact of an LTE mobile network on public service television broadcasts. The company analyzed how an LTE system in the 800 MHz band would affect the existing UHF networks using the Digital Video Broadcast Terrestrial system (DVB-T). There was the potential for interference between the digital broadcast network and any LTE wireless broadband service. To reduce the interference, several mitigation techniques were investigated in a sample area around Oslo. ATDI proposed that while network designs were being completed, LTE operators should consider the interference potential to the DVB-T networks and suggested mitigation techniques they could deploy to overcome the effects. The company also advocated that a feasibility study was completed to assess the reassignment of spectrum of affected areas away from channels 58 to 60; the study would additionally look at the effect of not using these channels in highly populated areas.