An Experimental Study on 5G Mobility Management: A Drive Test Approach

Abstract

Drive testing plays a crucial role in assessing and optimizing the performance of mobile networks for operators. With the transition from fourth-generation (4G) to fifth-generation (5G) networks, it becomes essential to evaluate and compare the performance of these technologies in real-world scenarios. Drive test real measurement data assumes a central role in optimizing mobile networks. Operators gain invaluable insights into critical factors such as signal quality, data throughput, and handover events by conducting physical drive tests. This empirical data empowers them to identify areas with inadequate coverage, optimize antenna settings, refine handover parameters, and strategically deploy additional base stations. This paper provides symmetrical performance analyses based on an experimental study of operating 5G cellular networks in Muscat, Oman. The data measurement campaign was collected using mobile devices from three mobile network providers (Omantel, Ooredoo, and Vodafone). The network's performance was evaluated using various metrics, including channel quality indicators, data rates and handover events. Assessment results show that the leading networks in the measured area are 5G networks for all mobile network providers. While 5G has showcased incremental improvements over 4G in some instances, it's still in its nascent phase. Recommendations include continuous network monitoring by operators and augmented 5G base station deployment to heighten the quality of service by ensuring higher data rates and minimal latency.