Performance Benchmarking of Uplink Polarization and Spatial Diversity Gains Using Field Measurements from UMTS/HSPA Network

This paper presents the gains of Uplink Polarization and Spatial Diversity based on field measurements from UMTS/HSPA network. Two Branch (2-Way) and Four Branch (4-Way) receive diversity schemes are compared with Spatial and Polarization configurations. Polarization diversity offers similar gains as spatial diversity and is easily deployable with minimal implementation costs. The receive diversity gains in uplink can be perceived by users as increase in throughput in given service area or as improved coverage in fringe areas. In areas close to sites, UE transmit power savings can be observed which can translate to gains in battery life for the device. Additionally lower UE Transmit power will result in less interference thereby providing Capacity gains.