Location Technology: The right tool for the job.

Taking RF Pattern Matching a Step Further

MLDC, patent pending, uses a type of locating technology known as RF Pattern Matching (RFPM). RF Pattern Matching compares a target mobile's observations of its immediate RF environment with a database of similar observations taken previously at various geographic points within the network. The previously measured characteristics that most closely match those from the target mobile indicate the mobile's location.

MLDC is unique in how the measured RF data is processed and organized to provide accurate locations. Other RFPM systems typically construct a pattern-matching database by dividing a geographic area into a set of contiguous smaller areas. Signal measurement data is collected, or predicted, and assigned to the relevant area, based on location.

MLDC groups data according to the similarity of the measurements rather than the location where the measurements were made. This creates dynamic data clusters that are related by measurement similarity. As a result, MLDC location remains effective even where the signal environment may vary widely over small geographic changes.

The only piece of hardware required to deploy MLDC is the MLDC server, a commercial off-the-shelf processor that connects to the carrier's access network. In 2G/GERAN networks, the MLDC server communicates with SMLCs. In 3G/UTRAN networks, it communicates with the SAS nodes. Beyond the MLDC server, no additional equipment is needed to deploy the technology. MLDC works with all mobiles and does not require handset modifications.

Mobile Location by Dynamic Clustering (MLDC) is a valuable addition to CommScope's GeoLENs portfolio of location technologies and solutions. For more information on MLDC and other GeoLENs mobile location solutions, contact us at geolens@commscope.com

GeoLENs® Locate™

With GeoLENs Locate, wireless operators can:

• Provide public safety information and emergency alerts to all mobile users in a specific geographic area in real-time.
• Support applications for closed user groups that can, for example, alert individuals or business when their loved ones or resources have arrived safely at their destinations.
• Create and support new, high-value opportunities through precise and timely opt-in mobile marketing services.

How it Works

GeoLENs Locate combines the low-load advantages of passive location with the accuracy and responsiveness of active polling to identify mobiles either within or in close proximity to an area of interest (AOI), as described or defined in connection with an application. An AOI can be described dynamically, as with a tornado warning area that changes and moves as the storm progresses; or it can be static, as with the radius of a circle around a retail store.

Public Safety Support

Powerful location processing methods give GeoLENs Locate the capacity to simultaneously support applications covering small mobile subgroups or millions of subscribers over tightly defined areas or vast geographies. Mobile operators can provide 24/7 support for area-targeted severe weather warnings, Amber alerts, health warnings, and other public safety emergencies that require mass notification capabilities. GeoLENs Locate also supports 2-way communication to integrate with existing E-9-1-1 or E-112 solutions.

Mobile Marketing Revenues

GeoLENs Locate features powerful, easy-to-provision filters that can help mobile advertisers and merchants deliver the right message to the right opt-in customers at the right time and place. Network operators can create new services and new revenue streams.

Fleet, Friends, and Family Location for Closed User Groups

GeoLENs Locate can alert users when a specific device or group of devices enter or exit a user-defined area. Business customers can better manage fleets, suppliers, and schedules. GeoLENs Locate can support popular social networking applications and provide peace of mind for parents who want to verify that their children or elderly parents are safe.

Adding More Value to the GeoLENs Family and Your Network

GeoLENs Locate is a collaboration between CommScope, developer of the GeoLENs portfolio of network location systems, and Intersec, a leading international provider of geofencing solutions. GeoLENs Locate is designed to be deployed with GeoLENs wireless location systems, which employ a wide range of software-driven, network-based, and handset-based location technologies for macro-area as well as indoor caller location solutions.

When deployed with GeoLENs wireless location systems, GeoLENs Locate increases network value and enables new opportunities for creative, high-value services. At the same time, operators gain a trusted solutions-oriented partner in CommScope, an industry leader and innovator with the experience and global resources to tackle the toughest challenges. Today and tomorrow.

GeoLENs Locate Brochure

GeoLENs Secure User Plane—SUPL Location Methods

A-GPS based positioning

Assisted-GPS (A-GPS) is a handset-based mobile locating method fundamentally based on GPS locating technology but functionally distributed between the mobile and a centralized server. Mobiles must be specially equipped to receive GPS signals from multiple GPS satellites in order to make measurements of the signals from GPS satellites and relay this information or their calculated position through the mobile network to the SMLC/SAS/SLP software (iSAS: Control Plane, SUPL: User Plane implementations). In cases where the mobile does not compute its own location from GPS data, the SMLC/SAS/SLP uses GPS data relayed from the target mobile to compute the mobile's position. Once determined, the position can be sent to a gateway mobile location center (GMLC) or SUPL Location Platform (SLP) for distribution to the application that originated the location request. A-GPS is a supplemental form of GPS whereby GPS satellite position data is sent from the SMLC/SAS/SLP through the mobile network to the mobile to assist the mobile in determining which GPS satellites it should attempt to acquire. This supplemental data is intended to:

• Speed the mobile's satellite signal acquisition process.
• Increase the mobile's ability to receive signals from the target GPS satellites.

A-GPS is intended to reduce latency and improve other location performance when a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured. That can occur when the caller is in a building, in a vehicle, or in an "urban canyon." Although A-GPS does improve overall locating performance, accuracy, latency, and yield performance can be subject to degradation if a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured.

Cell ID Positioning:

Allows basic location services to be deployed using existing handsets and network capabilities and kick start market interest and revenues.

• Cell sector location coordinates passed to the application
• Can be accomplished using a standalone Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) that connects to MSC and HLR using ATI
• SMLC based when deployed
• Can be configured to provide mid point of the cell if desired

The Stand-Alone SLP: A Location-Enabling Solution that Truly Stands Alone.

The Andrew Stand-Alone SLP (SUPL Location Platform) is your key to unlocking the revenue potential of thousands of mobile applications and services that rely on location information.

The Stand-Alone SLP integrates quickly and easily with your network, providing an immediate and high-accuracy locating solution. As a secure-user plane location (SUPL) solution, the Stand-Alone SLP communicates directly with the mobile handset, bypassing the network architecture and giving users access to location services even when they are roaming.

Flexible and Affordable

The Stand-Alone SLP is the same platform used in Andrews GeoLENs MLC (Mobile Location Center). So it is capable of using a variety of positioning technologies to locate any SET (SUPL-Enabled Terminal) device. Locating technologies supported include:

• A-GPS (Assisted GPS) 
• Cell-ID
• Enhanced Cell ID (E-CID) using Timing Advance, Network Measurement Report and Measured Results List.

The Stand-Alone SLP can be deployed in any GERAN (2G) and UTRAN (3G) environment and will soon support LTE (4G) as well.

As an independent solution, the Stand-Alone SLP is easier and more affordable to implement than a fully-integrated control-plane solution. It is ideal for smaller operators who need to location-enable their networks along the user plane, or even for larger operators who would like to add a SUPL-only solution to their existing location architecture.

OMA-Compliant and Handset-Friendly

Additionally, the Andrew Stand-Alone SLP is fully compliant with the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) SUPL 1.0 standards. The Stand-Alone SLP will also comply with the soon-to-be-released SUPL 2.0 guidelines, giving LTE networks an easy to deploy and cost-effective location solution as well.

With industry programs such as SUPL Inter-Operability Testing (IOT), Andrew is taking a leading role in helping operators lower the cost of deploying location solutions. The SUPL IOT is a collaborative initiative with handset vendors to ensure compatibility between Andrew GeoLENs solutions such as the Stand-Alone SLP and mobile devices.

Connect and Evolve with CommScope

Worldwide, mobile value-added services represent a $2 billion opportunity, with much of that locked up in location-based applications and services. To unlock the potential, begin by location-enabling your network - easily, quickly and affordably - with the Stand-Alone SLP from CommScope.

To get started, contact Andrews Solutions at GeoLENs@andrew.com

GeoLENs GeoLocation-Enabled Network Solutions Policy Server

The Andrew GeoLENs Policy Server is a powerful tool for controlling access to, and the quality of location information in both IP and cellular location enabled networks. By controlling who can access location and at what quality, the Andrew GeoLENs Policy Server permits the operator to maximize control of, and ROI on, their location infrastructure investment.

In SUPL deployments the Policy Server works in conjunction with an Operators SLP to restrict SET initiated requests to mobile devices that have paid for a location capability. The Policy Server can be deployed as a stand-alone platform containing all the subscribers allowed to use SET initiated location requests. In this mode the Policy Server can maintain up to 70 million subscriber records and be queried by a number of geographically distributed SLPs.  The Policy Server supports multiple arbitration outcomes including:

• Acceptance, full location rights
• Rejection, no location rights
• Partial, a coarse location is provided

In addition to maintaining a subscriber database, the Policy Server can also query external operator policy sources in order to confirm a clients right to access location information. External policy sources include Diameter, RADIUS and LDAP servers. When used in this manner the Policy Server may be internal or external to the SLP.

For smaller operators the option also exists for a limited capacity subscriber database to reside in the integrated SLP-Policy Server configuration.

 The Policy Server is also an element of the GeoLENs LIS product portfolio. In the LIS, the Policy Server can be used to interrogate external policy servers, such as a RADIUS, Diameter and LDAP server to ascertain a users right to quality location information. The Policy Server can be configured to apply local jurisdiction and operator policies pertaining to specialist location clients. Agencies such as law enforcement and emergency services can obtain high accuracy location information for any device. Policies can be applied to both Targets and third party location requestors.

The Policy Server also enforces Target policies associated with HELD contexts. These policies may contain IETF common policy documents (RFC4745), geo-policy documents (draft-ietf-geopriv-policy-20), or a combination of the two.

The Andrew GeoLENs Policy Server provides operators with the controls and flexibility needed to manage and enforce location policy in their network. Operating as either a standalone or integrated element to existing Andrew GeoLENs location products the Policy Server adds real value to a location enabled network.

Download the most recent brochure!

GeoLENs Policy Server Brochure

GeoLENs Operation Support System

Why just manage—when you can manage to do more.

Whether you’re using a single GeoLENs node or the entire portfolio, you’ve probably realized by now just how powerful it is. Never before have network operators had more control over location-information traffic, nor been able to offer customers greater access to IP-driven location-based services. From the GeoLENs MLC and LIS to our Policy Server and LMU, the location-enabled network is changing the way location information is sent, received and coordinated.

The GeoLENs OSS (Operations System Support). Designed to interface with any number or combination of GeoLENs nodes, the GeoLENs OSS lets you manage the operation, administration and maintenance (OAM) functions of your individual GeoLENs platforms as a single system.

• Capture and coordinate data from your GeoLENs servers to get a more complete picture of how your location information system is performing.
• Perform system-wide provisioning, edit individual server properties, and exercise Master Version control—all from a single location.
• Create customized reports that can be exported into a variety of formats for use in financial, operational, and technical planning.
• Remotely troubleshoot key functions within each node and significantly reduce your on-site maintenance costs.

Communication between the GeoLENs OSS and individual location platforms is two-way. For operations such as provisioning and updating, the GeoLENs OSS pushes critical information out to your various platforms, enabling you to remotely manage and maintain multiple servers from your network operations center. It is also a central point for data collection, pulling operational and configuration data from your various GeoLENs nodes for coordinated analysis and backup.

GeoLENs Operation Support System brochure

GeoLENs – Location Measurement Unit (LMU)

 Location-sensitive services or applications, including Public Safety, each present unique requirements for location accuracy, latency, reliability, cost tolerance, and other parameters. Experts agree that no single location technology can provide a “best fit” for all LBS applications.

That’s why Andrew has built into GeoLENs system the ability to provide multiple location methods. For Public Safety Andrew offers operators the choice of handset-based A-GPS and network-based caller location methods using Andrew’s Location Measurement Units (LMUs).

Designed to operate in new or existing Andrew network overlay location systems, the LMU can be located at the latest generation wireless network base station sites to quickly measure features of the radio signals received from handsets to be located.  LMU units functioning under the control of the Geolocation Control System (GCS) central location processor, receive commands to make signal arrival and other measurements in connection with emergency services location activities. The LMU units forward these measurements back to the GCS, where the location of the target handset is calculated. The handset location coordinates are then communicated to end user applications, such as PSAPs, via a Mobile Position Center or Gateway Mobile Location Center (MPC/GMLC) selected by the host wireless carrier.

GeoLENs LMU Brochure

 GeoLENs – Location Information Server (LIS)

  The GeoLENs ISP LIS is a scalable platform that can accommodate small, medium and large Internet providers using various underlying technologies. Andrew understands that some operators manage multiple access networks using different underlying technologies and our ISP LIS is flexible enough to support these on the same platform while maintaining logical network separation.

GeoLENs LIS can location-enable IP-based networks to support all location-sensitive applications.  The GeoLENs LIS can be deployed in access networks ranging from enterprise, DSL, cable and other wired and wireless broadband access types to provide the location of any device connected to an IP network.  

As more IP networks are deployed, especially within enterprise applications, location in the fixed network is of equal importance to location in the mobile network, Andrew’s GeoLENs system is evolving to support these new applications for both carrier and enterprise networks in a way that others cannot.  

GeoLENs LIS Brochure

GeoLENs GSM Location Methods:
A-GPS based positioning

A-GPS Hybrid Positioning

Assisted-GPS (A-GPS) is a handset-based mobile locating method fundamentally based on GPS locating technology but functionally distributed between the mobile and a centralized server. Mobiles must be specially equipped to receive GPS signals from multiple GPS satellites in order to make measurements of the signals from GPS satellites and relay this information or their calculated position through the mobile network to the SMLC/SAS/SLP software (iSAS: Control Plane, SUPL: User Plane implementations). In cases where the mobile does not compute its own location from GPS data, the SMLC/SAS/SLP uses GPS data relayed from the target mobile to compute the mobile's position. Once determined, the position can be sent to a gateway mobile location center (GMLC) or SUPL Location Platform (SLP) for distribution to the application that originated the location request. A-GPS is a supplemental form of GPS whereby GPS satellite position data is sent from the SMLC/SAS/SLP through the mobile network to the mobile to assist the mobile in determining which GPS satellites it should attempt to acquire. This supplemental data is intended to:

• Speed the mobile's satellite signal acquisition process.
• Increase the mobile's ability to receive signals from the target GPS satellites.

A-GPS is intended to reduce latency and improve other location performance when a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured. That can occur when the caller is in a building, in a vehicle, or in an "urban canyon." Although A-GPS does improve overall locating performance, accuracy, latency, and yield performance can be subject to degradation if a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured.

• Timing Advance (TA) is an existing GSM parameter conceived to avoid overlapping of bursts transmitted by several Mobile Stations (MSs) in the same cell
• For positioning purposes the TA is an estimate of the absolute distance between MS and serving BTS
• Statistical TA information can be used to adapt to different environments
• By combining TA with the coordinates of the serving BTS and eventually with orientation and angular width of the serving sector, the MS position can be estimated

Cell ID Positioning

Allows basic location services to be deployed using existing handsets and network capabilities and kick start market interest and revenues.

• Cell sector location coordinates passed to the application
• Can be accomplished using a standalone Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) that connects to MSC and HLR using ATI
• SMLC based when deployed
• Can be configured to provide mid point of the cell if desired

Mobile Location by Dynamic Clustering: MLDC

MLDC can accurately locate any mobile device without requiring additional upgrades to either mobile handsets or network hardware. It is particularly valuable in areas where high capacity location and accuracy greater than E-CID is important, but A-GPS location is not supported or fails to operate due to satellite signal obstruction. Read more ...

Uplink Time Difference of Arrival U-TDOA

UTDOA takes timing measurements of standard handset RF procedures (uplink).  It calculates the difference in the time of arrival of the RF signal between multiple pairs of Location Measurement Units (LMUs) .  The differences in arrival time determine hyperbolic curves between receivers of where the mobile could be.  The location is then estimated by the best intersection of the multiple hyperbolic curves.

LMUs may also be equipped with antennae capable of providing angle of arrival measurements (AoA) which can augment timing measurements where coverage or DOP is poor.

Multiple Range Estimation Locator - MREL

MREL (Multiple Range Estimation Location) is the next generation of location technology used with Andrews Location Measurement Units (LMUs). MREL and U-TDOA use different techniques to determine the location of a mobile.  MREL exploits features in the newer digital signaling protocols to produce location results in areas U-TDOA cannot.  For example, MREL requires only two sensor sites instead of U-TDOAs three, which is particularly important in rural or highway corridors where only two sensor sites might be available.

MREL makes innovative use of the feedback loop that exists between a mobile and a base station to determine the actual time that the mobile transmits a signal of interest.  MREL then uses the transmission time and the time of arrival of the signal at a sensor site to determine a circular range ring, where the mobile could be located, around each sensor site.  The location is then estimated by the best intersection of the multiple range-rings.  

Conversely, U-TDOA calculates the difference in the time of arrival of the mobile signal between multiple pairs of receivers.  The differences in arrival time determine hyperbolic curves between receivers of where the mobile could be.  The location is then estimated by the best intersection of the multiple hyperbolic curves.

Unlike U-TDOA, MREL is not dependent on time differences of arrival of a signal at multiple sensor sites.  MREL uses absolute times of transmission and arrival.  Because MREL does not rely on differences, it is able to generate a range ring for each sensor site and has the ability to generate accurate location information with just two sensor sites.  U-TDOA cannot generate accurate location information with anything less than three sensor sites.

Testing shows that in a comprehensive set of environments, MREL offers a high accuracy location capability in areas where A-GPS and U-TDOA may fail.  MREL coupled with the other location technologies available in GeoLENs provides the most comprehensive and competitive location solution on the market today, both for LBS and E911 applications.

User Plane Location (SUPL) Solutions

For User Plane (SUPL) location in GSM networks, please refer to Andrews SUPL Location Platform (SLP).

GeoLENs Indoor

Open the Door to a New Level of Service

Nearly 60% of all wireless calls originate or terminate from indoor locations such as office buildings, shopping malls, airports, hospitals, and sports arenas. For wireless operators and facility owners who want to improve E9-1-1 caller location or implement new location-based services, thats an opportunity and a challenge. Now CommScope provides the solution: GeoLENs Indoor.

Works with In-Place Communications Systems

How it Works

Location activity is initiated when a wireless network triggers the ILS which, in turn, alerts the appropriate PDUs to notify the ILS if they detect a target mobile. Any PDU that detects a target mobile’s signal, measures the signal, and reports it to the ILS. The ILS then provides the location information for the zone of detection back through the appropriate network connections for delivery to the PSAP or to an application server for commercial LBS applications. The location provided is a set of pre-provisioned location information for the zone determined in the mobile location process.

Fast, High-Yield Results

GeoLENs Indoor does not rely on traditional location methods such as A-GPS or U-TDOA to determine caller locations, so it is immune to the problems that can deteriorate the performance of those methods. Instead, it returns a location based on proximity to DAS antennas, so reliability and accuracy are maintained when other methods fail. In addition to its ability to greatly enhance caller location for E9-1-1, GeoLENs Indoor is ideal for carriers or facility owners wishing to capitalize on the growing variety of commercial services that require high-performance indoor mobile location.

Proximity Location Including Elevation

Locations are defined based on proximity, enabling GeoLENs Indoor to pinpoint a caller’s locations to within a few meters and to a specific floor within a multi-story facility, a capability not possible with traditional location solutions. For public safety personnel and other emergency first responders, this is a critical benefit.

Location accuracy, including floor information, is determined solely by distribution of the (DAS) antennas throughout a facility and the size of the zones covered by those antennas. Additional antennas can also be deployed to supplement the DAS antennas to decrease zone size for even greater accuracy.

We Know Location Inside and Out

There has never been a better time to location-enable your in-building network. With GeoLENs Indoor, there is no reason not to do so now. GeoLENs Indoor gives you all the location accuracy and reliability you rely on to increase the reach of the services offered to your customers. And with CommScope by your side, you know it will be done right. Since 2001, we have been consistently redefining the location-enabled network inside and out. Let us put our location experience, solutions, and resources to work for you.

GeoLENs Indoor Presentation
GeoLENs Indoor Brochure
GeoLENs Indoor Fact Sheet

SUPL Handset Interop Program

CommScope offers two SUPL Interoperability testing (IOT) options for handset (SET) vendors wishing to validate interoperability with the Andrew Solutions GeoLENs^® SUPL Server.

The first option available is the purchase of a specific number of dedicated hours for handset IOT in a CommScope GeoLENs lab. The second option is a testing package with a fixed annual price, offering substantial benefits versus the per-session testing option.

Option 1 : Per Session SUPL IOT

The Andrew Solutions GeoLENs “Per Session” option is available for handset vendors who wish to purchase only a specific timeslot of hours to perform Interoperability testing with an Andrew SUPL server. SUPL IOT hours can be purchased for dedicated testing to the Andrew Solution SUPL Server. This option includes dedicated access to an Andrew Solutions SUPL Server and guided testing supervision by a trained Andrew Solution Interoperability test prime. A summary of test results will be provided by CommScope for tests completed on a SET(s).

Option 2 : Annual SUPL Interoperability Testing Package

The Andrew Solutions GeoLENs Annual package includes:

• 40 Hours / 5 days of dedicated access to an Andrew Solutions GeoLENs SLP. Handset vendor may select either remote testing access or direct on-site access. The 40 access hours include dedicated testing supervision by a trained Andrew Solution Interoperability test prime. These hours may be used to test one SET or multiple SETs, but the total number of testing access hours is fixed at 40.
• Additional dedicated hours may be purchased at a reduced rate, and appended to the existing annual agreement/ package.
• Andrew Solutions report summarizing test results specific to each SET tested with the Andrew GeoLENs SUPL Server during these dedicated hours. At the handset vendor’s option test results may be shared with Service Providers to demonstrate interoperability with the Andrew Solutions GeoLENs SUPL Server.
• Unlimited shared access during off-peak hours, and as available during regular business hours (eg when the lab SLP system is not in use for dedicated testing with another handset vendor). Such off-peak shared access IOT timeslots are unsupervised by Andrew Solutions, and performance of the lab SLP system cannot be guaranteed. The intent of making the system available in this unsupervised manner is to allow handset partners to perform vendor specific tests with the Andrew GeoLENs SUPL server to perform self-managed IOT testing, or to test fixes for problems found during previous dedicated testing sessions. Off-peak/as available benefit is not available to vendors who select the Per Session pricing option (Option 1).
• Priority booking for dedicated testing access with the AndrewAndrew Solutions lab facilities.
• Program updates from Andrew Solutions regarding upcoming GeoLENs SUPL features that will be available for Interoperability testing in the future.

To schedule GeoLENs SUPL Interoperability testing or for more information about this testing opportunity please contact Kal Krishnan at +1 703-726-5831, or kal.krishnan@commscope.com.

GeoLENs Product Enhancement Form 

In an effort to streamline the requests for product development and enhancements, Andrew Solutions has developed a quick and easy online system to collect and review valuable input. There are seven simple steps to completing this form so that our product research and development teams can access this information and include it in upcoming product development road maps. We value your interest, input, and consideration, and we hope that you will continue to contribute to the success of Andrew Solutions through this product enhancement program.

• GeoLENs Product Enhancement Request Form

GeoLENs Customer Support

• North America (toll free): 877-436-3911
• Any Location (International): +1-703-726-5911

Andrew provides post-implementation assistance for the GeoLENs system.

Available services include:

Customer Support provides installation, maintenance, and remote diagnostics assistance. Support is available through our toll free support number at 877-436-3911. Services can include 24x7 system monitoring, automated service ticket generation, configuration management, and performance tuning as requested by the wireless carrier.

Documentation

Customer Support produces and maintains documents for installation and O&M for each major component of the GeoLENs system. Documentation is also provided on network alarms and troubleshooting guidelines for use in the wireless carrier's operations center.

GeoLENs MLC & LMU Customer Support and Documentation WebSite

Access to the Customer Support and Documentation website is restricted to current GeoLENs customers.
For general information on the GeoLENs portfolio of solutions click here.

Training

Technical training is available for the wireless carrier's switch, field, engineering, and operations center staff. Classes include installation and maintenance of each component of the system, along with system overviews and system design and maintenance courses.

E9-1-1 Compliance Testing Services

E9-1-1 Second Order Compliance:  What Does it Mean for You?

In September 2010 the FCC modified the E9-1-1 Phase II location accuracy performance requirements, specifying that carriers must now achieve accuracy compliance in geographic areas no larger than counties.

Introducing Andrew's E9-1-1 Compliance Testing Services.

Andrew's E9-1-1 Compliance Testing Services is a suite of solutions designed to give you the insight and information you need to ensure compliance with the FCC's recently introduced E9-1-1 Second Report and Order. E9-1-1 Compliance Testing Services consists of three areas: Initial Assessment and Analysis, Follow-up Testing, and Engineering Analysis and Recommendations. Take advantage of one, two, or all three.

1. Initial Assessment and Analysis

The original FCC mandate required carriers to periodically test their networks for compliance to accuracy requirements. Using your most recent data from those tests, Andrew engineers will assess your accuracy against the new compliance and milestone requirements in the FCC Second Order. Based on the results, we will provide you with a report outlining counties that are within the Second Order specification and those that are not. For counties not within compliance, Andrew may recommend follow-up testing to ensure that the testing scenarios are appropriate and that all network elements are operating correctly during testing.

2. Follow-Up Testing

Andrew will work with carriers to select a sample of counties for re-testing to determine whether prior accuracy testing remains valid or needs to be selectively or completely repeated. For existing Andrew customers who have not tested within the past year, re-testing may provide additional beneficial data, a result of new location algorithms and software features we've added to our testing solutions. The most recognizable improvements should be seen in rural areas, which are the areas that are most likely to not be compliant to the FCC Second Order. Upon completion of re-testing, Andrew will amend the report produced in the Initial Assessment and Analysis.

3. Engineering Analysis and Recommendations

If, after initial assessment and follow-up testing, there are still counties not meeting FCC Second Order requirements, Andrew will conduct an engineering analysis and recommend a plan for bringing these counties into compliance. Recommendations could include additional location-only cell sites, deployment of other location technologies, or the identification of exclusion areas, to name a few.

Enlist the Help of the Andrew's E9-1-1 Services Team Today and Be Sure.

With Andrew's deep experience in location systems, we have the technical expertise and testing resources few can match. And because our GeoLENs customers depend so heavily on the accuracy of their location solutions, we understand the FCC's requirements inside and out.

Contact Us:

GeoLENs Sales and Information:  +1-703-726-7900

Email:  geolens@andrew.com

GeoLENs MLC New Features

What's New in Latest Release of the GeoLENs MLC

The newest release of the GeoLENs MLC is based on the GeoLENs Mobile Location Center, a single mobile location solution that supports all emergency, commercial, and security location-based services for 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. Equipped with virtual node technology, the GeoLENs MLC consolidates the capabilities of a GMLC, SMLC, E-SMLC, SAS, and SLP into one single-bay solution that is flexible, powerful, and scalable.

Able to support virtually any popular handset-based, network-based, and hybrid locating technology  in multiple combinations  the GeoLENs MLC can now process up to 1,000 transactions per second. It also integrates a full-featured policy server that controls the types of applications and devices that can access location information. The result is one solution capable of handling all location requests across the network, regardless of network configuration.

With this new release, the GeoLENs MLC provides today's network operator more reasons to invest in GeoLENs technology to location-enable their network.

Dual Plane Capability

GeoLENs MLC combines control plane (CoPl) and secure user plane location (SUPL) architectures to employ the highest-accuracy, best yielding location technology. A typical scenario demonstrating the benefit of combined dual plane functionality would be when a secure user plane enabled mobile device is attempting to determine the users location. If GPS signals cannot penetrate the building, the typical secure user plane location solution, assisted-GPS, will not be able to find the user accurately. With GeoLENs MLC 10.2 and above, the network can automatically start looking for the user with a control plane locating technology. When an indoor location system (GeoLENs Indoor) or our high accuracy GeoLENs LMU network is integrated with the GeoLENs MLC 10.2, the callers location can be determined with higher accuracy.

Increased Capacity

The GeoLENs MLC also provides significant capacity increases. The added capacity enables operators to handle the growing demand for location requests while deploying fewer systems, which may result in a significant decrease in CAPEX and OPEX costs. In markets such as Asia, where operators are required to locate all mobile devices on their network during an emergency, the GeoLENs MLC helps ensure compliance.

SIGTRAN Routing Flexibility

Traditionally, the GeoLENs MLC transmitted SS7 over IP signals to the core using the location platform's IP routers. Today, however, many networks maintain their own intermediate routers. The new GeoLENs MLC release optimizes this capability, enabling these operators to use their own routers. For networks without this capability, the IP router within the GeoLENs MLC provides outstanding throughput.

Enhanced OAM Documentation

Additions to the already comprehensive GeoLENs MLC documentation now include a powerful system-level troubleshooting guide to help operators quickly diagnose location determination issues in their network. This section enables operators to view their GeoLENs MLC within the context of their overall location determination chain. The broader perspective means operators can better identify and address problem areas more quickly and with less cost, ultimately increasing the quality of service for subscribers.

To learn how the newest release of GeoLENs MLC can help you increase your overall network performance and profits, contact CommScope now.

GeoLENs UMTS/WCDMA Locating Methods:

UMTS Assisted GPS (A-GPS)

WCDMA A-GPS Hybrid Location

Assisted-GPS (A-GPS) is a handset-based mobile locating method fundamentally based on GPS locating technology but functionally distributed between the mobile and a centralized server. Mobiles must be specially equipped to receive GPS signals from multiple GPS satellites in order to make measurements of the signals from GPS satellites and relay this information or their calculated position through the mobile network to the SMLC/SAS/SLP software (iSAS: Control Plane, SUPL: User Plane implementations). In cases where the mobile does not compute its own location from GPS data, the SMLC/SAS/SLP uses GPS data relayed from the target mobile to compute the mobile's position. Once determined, the position can be sent to a gateway mobile location center (GMLC) or SUPL Location Platform (SLP) for distribution to the application that originated the location request. A-GPS is a supplemental form of GPS whereby GPS satellite position data is sent from the SMLC/SAS/SLP through the mobile network to the mobile to assist the mobile in determining which GPS satellites it should attempt to acquire. This supplemental data is intended to:

• Speed the mobile's satellite signal acquisition process.
• Increase the mobile's ability to receive signals from the target GPS satellites.

A-GPS is intended to reduce latency and improve other location performance when a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured. That can occur when the caller is in a building, in a vehicle, or in an "urban canyon." Although A-GPS does improve overall locating performance, accuracy, latency, and yield performance can be subject to degradation if a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured.

Round Trip Timing Positioning

RTT Positioning

Round Trip Time (RTT) is a control plane mechanism whereby the node-B measures the signal propagation distance between the mobile and the base station.  It accomplishes this by utilizing a known downlink message transmit time from the node-B, measuring the corresponding uplink acknowledgement from the mobile, and subtracting off the message receive/transmit delay within the mobile.  This produces the round trip (two-way) signal delay, half of which can be used to compute the distance the signal travels between the mobile and the base station.  This RTT distance results in a circular ring around the base station representing  mobile location possibilities.  If the mobile is in a region where multiple base stations can communicate with the mobile, multiple RTT measurements can be computed and the intersection of multiple rings represents the mobile location.

Cell ID Positioning

Allows basic location services to be deployed using existing handsets and network capabilities and kick start market interest and revenues.

• Cell sector location coordinates passed to the application
• Can be accomplished using a standalone Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) that connects to MSC and HLR using ATI
• SMLC based when deployed
• Can be configured to provide mid point of the cell if desired

Mobile Location by Dynamic Clustering: MLDC

MLDC can accurately locate any mobile device without requiring additional upgrades to either mobile handsets or network hardware. It is particularly valuable in areas where high capacity location and accuracy greater than E-CID is important, but A-GPS location is not supported or fails to operate due to satellite signal obstruction. Read more ...

Uplink Time Difference of ArrivalU-TDOA

UTDOA takes timing measurements of standard handset RF procedures (uplink).  It calculates the difference in the time of arrival of the RF signal between multiple pairs of Location Measurement Units (LMUs) .  The differences in arrival time determine hyperbolic curves between receivers of where the mobile could be.  The location is then estimated by the best intersection of the multiple hyperbolic curves.

 LMUs may also be equipped with antennae capable of providing angle of arrival measurements (AoA) which can augment timing measurements where coverage or DOP is poor.

User Plane Location (SUPL) Solutions

For User Plane (SUPL) location in GSM networks, please refer to Andrews SUPL Location Platform (SLP).

 GeoLENs IP Location System Features—Location Information Server (LIS):

• Location of a device connected to an IP network
• Multiple Access Technologies
• Wired Broadband – DSL, Cable, Ethernet
• Wireless Broadband – 3G and 4G Access Technologies, Wi-Fi
• Enterprise and Government – IP networks
• Location Information Server
• Part of the access network
• Support for NENA i2 and IMS architectures
• Enables true IP service deployment – service accessible from any type of access network

In cases where an infrastructure provider makes static location information directly available to the ISP, the Internet provider can store these records directly in the GeoLENs ISP LIS. The GeoLENs ISP LIS supports a large number of static identifier to location mapping records that can be quickly loaded and changed as required.

In some environments there is a dynamic binding between the statically provisioned identifier, that maps to location, and the IP address of the device. In these configurations the GeoLENs ISP LIS resolves the dynamic binding by using AAA or DHCP data prior to determining the corresponding location of the device.

Location Information Server (LIS) – Internet location services model:

 Location by value:

• Device obtains location from the location server in the access network
• Device conveys location* to the service in the applicable application protocol

* Location values are  encoded as a PIDF-LO per RFC4119

Location by reference:

• Device obtains reference from the location server in the access network
• Device conveys reference to the service in the applicable application protocol.
• Service queries location server directly for location value one or more times

The protocol used for 1 & 3 is HELD (HTTP Enabled Location Delivery). Step 2, location conveyance, is application protocol dependent (e.g. SIP supports location conveyance)

GeoLENs LTE Locating Methods:

Assisted GPS (A-GPS)

A-GPS Hybrid Positioning

Assisted-GPS (A-GPS) is a handset-based mobile locating method fundamentally based on GPS locating technology but functionally distributed between the mobile and a centralized server. Mobiles must be specially equipped to receive GPS signals from multiple GPS satellites in order to make measurements of the signals from GPS satellites and relay this information or their calculated position through the mobile network to the SMLC/SAS/SLP software (iSAS: Control Plane, SUPL: User Plane implementations). In cases where the mobile does not compute its own location from GPS data, the SMLC/SAS/SLP uses GPS data relayed from the target mobile to compute the mobile's position. Once determined, the position can be sent to a gateway mobile location center (GMLC) or SUPL Location Platform (SLP) for distribution to the application that originated the location request. A-GPS is a supplemental form of GPS whereby GPS satellite position data is sent from the SMLC/SAS/SLP through the mobile network to the mobile to assist the mobile in determining which GPS satellites it should attempt to acquire. This supplemental data is intended to:

• Speed the mobile's satellite signal acquisition process.
• Increase the mobile's ability to receive signals from the target GPS satellites.

A-GPS is intended to reduce latency and improve other location performance when a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured. That can occur when the caller is in a building, in a vehicle, or in an "urban canyon." Although A-GPS does improve overall locating performance, accuracy, latency, and yield performance can be subject to degradation if a mobile's view of GPS satellites is obscured.

Cell ID Positioning

Allows basic location services to be deployed using existing handsets and network capabilities and kick start market interest and revenues.

• Cell sector location coordinates passed to the application
• Can be accomplished using a standalone Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) that connects to MSC and HLR using ATI
• SMLC based when deployed
• Can be configured to provide mid point of the cell if desired

TA/NMR Positioning

• Timing Advance (TA) is an existing parameter conceived to avoid overlapping of bursts transmitted by several Mobile Stations (MSs) in the same cell
• For positioning purposes the TA is an estimate of the absolute distance between MS and serving BTS
• Statistical TA information can be used to adapt to different environments
• By combining TA with the coordinates of the serving BTS and eventually with orientation and angular width of the serving sector, the MS position can be estimated

Uplink Time Difference of Arrival – U-TDOA

UTDOA takes timing measurements of standard handset RF procedures (uplink).  It calculates the difference in the time of arrival of the RF signal between multiple pairs of Location Measurement Units (LMUs) .  The differences in arrival time determine hyperbolic curves between receivers of where the mobile could be.  The location is then estimated by the best intersection of the multiple hyperbolic curves.

 LMUs may also be equipped with antennae capable of providing angle of arrival measurements (AoA) which can augment timing measurements where coverage or DOP is poor.

O-TDOA Location Solutions

• Mobile makes timing measurements on the downlink
• Measurements reported to location server
• Timing measurements may be augmented with other types of measurements such as Round Trip Delays
• Location Server computes fix with a knowledge of timing measurements and base station locations.

User Plane Location (SUPL) Solutions

For User Plane (SUPL) location in GSM networks, please refer to Andrew’s SUPL Location Platform (SLP).