Voice Communication Innovations in the 5G Era

5G technology promises blazing-fast data speeds and brings revolutionary enhancements to voice communication. In the realm of 5G, Voice over LTE (VoLTE) serves as a cornerstone, enabling high-quality voice calls over LTE networks.

However, as the transition to standalone 5G advances, the landscape for voice options expands, introducing innovative ways to manage voice traffic.

Handling Voice in 5G NSA deployment 

In the initial stages of deploying 5G, Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture integrates 5G technology with existing LTE infrastructure. NSA 5G relies on VoLTE for voice services as the primary option, ensuring a smooth transition from 4G to 5G. This configuration maintains voice continuity and quality, utilizing the robustness of VoLTE even in the early phases of 5G deployment.

If VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is unavailable, especially in areas with limited or absent LTE coverage or for other reasons, the network activates traditional circuit-switched fallback mechanisms. In the absence of VoLTE, the network reverts to legacy 2G or 3G technologies for voice calls, resulting in a negative impact on data services and degradation in voice quality.

As 5G deployment advances, network coverage and support for VoLTE are anticipated to increase. This growth aims to minimize situations where VoLTE is unavailable, ultimately improving the quality and reliability of voice calls.

In essence, VoLTE provides superior voice quality and supports simultaneous voice and data sessions over LTE & 5G NSA. However, the absence of VoLTE support prompts a fallback to older 2G/3G networks for voice calls, ensuring continuous voice communication but potentially compromising quality and data performance. As telecom infrastructure evolves, prioritizing the expansion of VoLTE coverage remains crucial to delivering enhanced voice services across broader areas.

Figure 1: Voice Options in 5G

Handling Voice in 5G SA deployment 


As the industry transitions to Standalone (SA) 5G networks, Voice over New Radio (VoNR) emerges as the dedicated voice solution for standalone architecture. VoNR, a significant evolution from VoLTE, is optimized specifically for 5G networks, offering superior voice quality, lower latency, and enhanced support for new features enabled by 5G technology.

The transition from VoLTE to VoNR in SA 5G networks will occur gradually, allowing for a coexistence period where both technologies jointly handle voice services. This hybrid approach ensures backward compatibility and smooth migration, maintaining the integrity of voice services while capitalizing on the enhanced capabilities of VoNR.

In cases where 5G coverage is lacking or weak, alternative solutions may be needed to handle voice services despite the presence of VoNR.

To prevent bad call quality or call drops, especially for UEs making Voice over New Radio (VoNR) calls from the 5G cell edge, the UE is directed during the voice call setup towards the 5G core network (5GC). This forces a switch to an LTE/EPS connection where the radio conditions are better for the voice service, a procedure known as “EPS Fallback,” defined by 3GPP. This process also occurs when the UE is served by a 5G cell not configured or optimized for VoNR calls or when the UE lacks necessary VoNR capabilities.

Actually, we have 2 options to implement EPS fallback could be described as below

  1. In 5G release with redirection to LTE (Option A), the 5G radio connection is released after setup and redirected to LTE. Following the 5G RRC Release, the UE is instructed to reselect a 4G cell, initiating a new radio connection for the VoLTE call. During this process, the UE context is transferred from the AMF to the MME over the N26 interface.
  2. In 5G-4G Inter-RAT Handover (Option B), signaling and traffic are tunneled between SMF/UPF and MME/SGW.
Figure 2: EPS fallback options

SRVCC (Single Radio Voice Connection Continuity) is a feature in mobile networks ensuring seamless transitions between different technologies during voice calls, facilitating handover from LTE (4G) or NR (5G) to legacy 2G or 3G networks when moving out of coverage.

Both VoLTE and VoNR require an IMS system. Establishing a solid, robust, and well-tested IMS network is a challenging task, demanding considerable effort and continuous improvement.

 For more information about Digis Squared VoLTE and IMS Services please check out the Managed Services page.

Non-Terrestrial-Networks (NTN) and telecom vision

The emergence of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites marks a significant advancement in the realm of non-terrestrial networks, particularly in their integration with mobile devices. LEO satellites operate closer to Earth, reducing latency and enabling faster data transmission. Their use in providing global internet coverage directly to mobile devices heralds a new era in connectivity.

With companies like SpaceX, OneWeb, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper launching constellations of LEO satellites, mobile devices stand to benefit from expanded coverage and improved bandwidth.

The prospect of integrating LEO band support into mobile devices opens doors for seamless, high-speed internet access, revolutionizing how individuals experience connectivity on the go.

As LEO satellite constellations become more established, the integration of their capabilities into mobile technology could redefine the standards for mobile connectivity, promising faster, more reliable access for users worldwide.

But now the question is “are Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) a threat or an opportunity for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and the telecom industry?”

Examining this question uncovers various facets of this emerging technology.

Challenges that will Face MNOs with NTN growth:

  • Competition: NTN, like satellite networks or high-altitude balloons, competes with MNOs by offering connectivity in areas where traditional networks struggle to reach.
  • Infrastructure Costs: Adapting or investing in new infrastructure to match NTN capabilities can be financially burdensome for MNOs.
  • Regulatory Hurdles: Integrating non-terrestrial technologies involves navigating complex regulations, potentially delaying adoption for MNOs.

Opportunities brought to MNOs by NTN:

  • Enhanced Coverage: Collaborating with NTN providers enables MNOs to extend their services to remote areas, expanding their offerings.
  • Improved Resilience: Non-terrestrial networks offer backup options, increasing network reliability, especially in disaster-prone regions.
  • Global Expansion: NTN allows MNOs to tap into new markets and customer bases, widening their reach.

NTN impact on the industry overall:

  • Connectivity Access: NTN fills coverage gaps, fostering digital inclusion and accessibility.
  • Technological Progress: The integration of NTN drives telecom innovation, pushing connectivity boundaries.
  • Market Dynamics: NTN’s presence encourages competitive pricing and innovation, benefiting consumers.
Figure 1: Non-Terrestrial network examples

In summary, Non-Terrestrial Networks pose both challenges and opportunities for MNOs and the industry. Strategic adaptation and collaboration within this evolving network landscape will determine the outcome.

Now, exploring the limitations of NTN:

  • Coverage Constraints: NTN technologies have limitations in serving densely populated or geographically challenging areas.
  • Latency Issues: Satellite-based systems suffer from delays, impacting real-time applications.
  • High Costs: Deployment and maintenance expenses lead to less affordability, especially in developing regions.
  • Spectrum Management Challenges: Multiple systems operating in similar frequencies can cause interference.
  • Chipset Readiness: Despite the numerous claims made by chipset vendors regarding their support for LEO bands, the reality remains that only a handful of mobile devices currently possess the necessary reception capabilities to utilize these bands effectively.
  • Weather Dependence: Weather conditions affect certain NTN systems, causing service disruptions.
  • Capacity Limits: Constraints on simultaneous users and bandwidth affect service quality during peak times.
  • Security Vulnerabilities: Cybersecurity threats and data transmission security are critical concerns.
  • Reliability Challenges: Maintaining reliability, especially in space, faces technical and environmental hurdles.

In conclusion, while NTN offers global connectivity and remote access advantages, addressing these limitations is crucial for its viability in telecom.

NTN Applications across Industries:

  • Satellite Internet: Connects remote areas lacking terrestrial internet access.
  • Disaster Management: Vital in coordinating rescue efforts during crises.
  • Agriculture: Provides real-time data for precision farming.
  • Maritime and Aviation: Ensures continuous connectivity during travel.
  • IoT Connectivity: Supports remote IoT device connections.
  • Energy and Environmental Monitoring: Aids in monitoring remote facilities and environmental research.
  • Education and Rural Connectivity: Bridges the digital divide in remote education.
  • Industries like Mining, Oil & Gas, Tourism, and Defense: Facilitates communication and operations in remote locations.
Figure 2: Non-Terrestrial network Use Cases

These diverse use cases showcase how NTN technologies address connectivity challenges, improving safety, efficiency, and quality of life, becoming an extension of terrestrial connections.

Pioneering Managed Services in Open RAN Networks

In the ever-evolving landscape of telecommunications, Digis Squared stands as a trailblazer in delivering large-scale managed service projects across multiple Network Operator domains. With an extensive portfolio covering Field, RAN, Transport, IPBB, Core, VAS, and BSS domains, the company boasts profound experience and a robust foundation in managing Mobile Network Operator (MNO) networks. Leveraging multi-vendor expertise and diverse technological proficiency, Digis Squared ensures optimal operations for its Open RAN networks.

The emergence of Open RAN technologies has introduced a paradigm shift in network operations, presenting complexities attributed to an increased number of vendors, multiple integration points and interfaces as well as third parties solutions that are seamlessly integrated with MNOs network. In response, Digis Squared has ingeniously crafted its proprietary Managed Service Operations model. This model, aligned with the ITIL operational framework, the ITU FCAPS model, and SMO Standard guidelines provided by the ORAN Alliance, serves as a guiding structure for the company’s operational strategies across all Open RAN knowledge domains.

Within this model, Digis Squared meticulously covers a wide array of activities integral to Open RAN network management:

  • Radio Planning and Optimization activities including various types of RIC Operations  
  • Field Activities
    • Field maintenance
      • Corrective Maintenance
      • Preventive Maintenance
  • E2ETesting Activities
    • Drive Testing
    • Network function testing
  • Network Operations Center (NOC) activities
    • Front Office Operations
    • Performance Monitoring
    • Service Desk Operations
      • Helpdesk
      • Change Management
      • Incident Management
      • Problem Management
      • Risk Management
      • Reporting
    • Back Office Operations
    • Integration activities that include third parties’ management and Operations.
  • Customer Experience Governance activities.
Figure 1: Digis Squared ORAN MS Model

The encompassing nature of Digis Squared’s model extends its coverage across various essential components:

  • Radio
  • Site Hardware
  • RAN Software
  • Transport
  • Cloud Infrastructure
  • CaaS and O-cloud

The company’s expertise spans a broad spectrum of vendors, encompassing but not limited to VMWare, RedHat, Robin io, NEC, Mavenit, Altio-Star, Juniper, Dell, and HP. This expansive vendor landscape ensures a comprehensive understanding of diverse technological infrastructures, enabling Digis Squared to offer unparalleled solutions and support within the Open RAN ecosystem.

Digis Squared’s commitment to excellence and innovation in managed services within Open RAN networks continues to redefine industry standards. By blending extensive experience, a robust operational model, and a diverse vendor portfolio, the company stands at the forefront of delivering top-tier services in the realm of telecommunications.

As the telecommunications industry continues to evolve, Digis Squared remains dedicated to pioneering advancements, ensuring seamless operations and exceptional service delivery in the dynamic landscape of Open RAN networks.

CEM Framework: SOC Transformation

Embarking on the journey of SOC (Service Operations Center) transformation prompts a pivotal inquiry: does a Call Drop Rate of 0.5% represent a good or bad metric? Applying Schrodinger’s cat theory to this value unravels the multiplicity of its implications. From a network perspective, this rate may signify a positive standing. However, in the context of impacting strategic corporate accounts situated within buildings, it could potentially evoke frustration among CEOs and senior staff, thereby rendering the 0.5% rate unfavorable. This duality underscores the necessity for a broader vision that extends beyond network quality alone, focusing on service quality—a vision materialized through the SOC.

Understanding the SOC and its functionalities requires delving into the customer experience approach, especially as the telecom industry converges with rapidly advancing technology and heightened customer expectations. The advent of the Customer Experience Management (CEM) framework amplifies the significance of a dedicated customer experience team.

The primary goal of the CEM framework lies in augmenting customer satisfaction and fostering loyalty through the provision of effective technical support. This proactive approach not only contributes to sustained revenue growth but also serves as a linchpin for maintaining competitive differentiation in a dynamic market environment.

The SOC serves as the linchpin between network metrics and customer-centric service qualities. Its transformation represents a strategic shift towards a holistic perspective, acknowledging that network performance metrics, while vital, might not encapsulate the entirety of customer satisfaction. Integrating the SOC within the operational framework enables a more comprehensive

By amalgamating network-centric data with a nuanced understanding of customer needs, the SOC transformation aims to strike a delicate balance. It doesn’t dismiss the importance of network performance but rather complements it by incorporating the customer’s perception of service quality into the evaluation metrics.

In essence, the evolution of the SOC signifies a paradigm shift—a departure from a myopic focus on network metrics to a more encompassing approach that places customer experience at its core. Embracing this transformation not only elevates service delivery but also aligns telecommunications companies with the evolving landscape of customer-centricity, fostering enduring relationships and sustained growth in a fiercely competitive market.

Figure 1: CEM Model

The fundamental ethos of the SOC revolves around fostering a Customer-Centric network and operations, aligning every operational facet towards optimizing customer satisfaction.

Outlined below are the core functions that delineate the landscape of the SOC:

  1. Service Surveillance:

This function entails the continuous monitoring and management of service performance and quality. From fault detection to real-time response mechanisms, its aim is to minimize service disruptions while upholding stringent quality standards and Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Collaboration with network operations and customer support teams is crucial to gauge customer impact accurately. Robust reporting and documentation further drive ongoing improvements, ensuring high service reliability and customer satisfaction.

  • Service Analysis:

Delving deeper into customer usage patterns, service reliability, and network efficiency, this function identifies areas for enhancement or expansion. By assessing customer satisfaction levels, it informs future service development and enhancement strategies, paving the way for proactive service improvements.

  • Supporting CSI Initiatives:

The SOC actively participates in developing and executing action plans aimed at addressing identified gaps. Monitoring the impact of these changes is pivotal, as it supports continual service evolution, ensuring sustained high levels of customer satisfaction.

  • Reporting:

Systematic collection, analysis, and presentation of data and insights form the backbone of this function. Accurate and regular reports are indispensable for monitoring progress, identifying improvement areas, and supporting organizational success on a holistic level.

SOC teams have the below interaction map could be described as below.

Figure 2 : SOC interactions


As an integral component of the SOC transformation, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) must integrate additional tools to facilitate and fortify this evolution. Some of these crucial tools encompass:

  1. Network Probing tools
  1. OSS data Access
  2. Trouble ticketing Tools.

The collaborative efforts between SOC (Service Operations Center) and CEM (Customer Experience Management) teams play a pivotal role in crafting Service Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Key Quality Indicators (KQIs). The creation of these metrics involves a strategic alignment between operational excellence and customer-centricity, focusing on various aspects that directly impact service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Figure 3: Digis Square Model for S-KPIs Creation

SOC SKPIs centers around the following.

  • Handsets Performance
  • Customer Segment Performance
  • HotSpots performance
  • OTTs performance
  • …. Etc
Figure 4: Sample of OTTs S-KPIs

SOC use cases, We  at Digis Squared have more than 70 ready use cases with insights and expected outputs, but use case generation is a continuous task and it shall be endless

  • Customers flip-flopping between radio technologies.
  • Customers with 4G handsets locked onto 3G.
  • Heavy data users with 3G handsets, we offer 4G handsets.
  • VoLTE performance variance across different handsets
  • Geolocation for data streaming activities
  • VIP and enterprise dashboards and proactive monitoring
  • Happy voice and data customers
  • CSFB analysis and delay investigations

Let’s explore a significant use case featuring our product, INOS, specifically the SOC – Active Probing scenario. In this scenario, we implement our INOS Watcher Kits in various high-traffic locations such as hotspots, VIP customer areas, corporate settings, shops, stations, or any other locations designated by the MNO. Subsequently, we establish continuously running scripts across these watchers, enabling these kits to instantly upload testing logs.

These logs are then utilized to populate a customized SOC dashboard hosted on the cloud. This dashboard provides a comprehensive overview of all Service KPIs and KQIs categorized by device, area, location, and/or IMSI. This solution empowers us to monitor service levels in specific areas and proactively identify any potential service issues experienced by customers in those locations.

Figure 5 : INOS SOC Active probing use Case

5G Core Powering the Future of Connectivity

In the ever-evolving landscape of telecommunications, the advent of 5G stands as a monumental leap forward. Beyond just speed, 5G introduces a transformative architecture known as the 5G core (5GC), revolutionizing the way we integrate, connect, and communicate. Let’s delve deeper into this advanced infrastructure and the pivotal concepts that shape its functionality.

Figure 1: High Level 5G Network architecture

The 5G core represents a fundamental shift from its predecessors, embracing a software-defined network architecture, cloud-native virtual network functions, and service-based architecture as well as full separation between the user plane and control plane through the full implementation of CUPS. Within this core, network functions play a pivotal role. These functions, ranging from authentication and policy control to session management and database management, are decoupled and virtualized, allowing for flexibility and scalability previously unseen in telecommunications networks. The Service-Based Architecture (SBA) in 5G represents a paradigm shift in how telecommunications networks are structured and function. At its core, SBA redefines network architecture by organizing various functionalities into modular and reusable services. These services, such as network slicing, authentication, session management, and policy control, are designed to be independent and interact through well-defined interfaces. This modular approach enables flexibility, allowing service providers to dynamically compose and deploy services tailored to specific user needs and applications. SBA facilitates efficient resource utilization, scalability, and rapid innovation, enabling the seamless integration of diverse services and applications across the 5G network.

 Its emphasis on standardized interfaces and service-based components fosters interoperability and encourages an ecosystem where new services can be rapidly developed, deployed, and managed in a more agile and cost-effective manner, ultimately driving the evolution of 5G networks to meet the demands of an increasingly connected world.

Figure 2: 5G core network functions

This cloud-service-based approach in the 5G core revolutionizes how telecommunications networks operate, offering a level of flexibility and scalability crucial for supporting a wide array of services and applications in the 5G era.

Network slicing, a defining feature of 5G, enables the creation of isolated, end-to-end virtual networks tailored to specific services or customer requirements.

By partitioning the network resources, 5G can allocate bandwidth, latency, and other parameters on demand. For instance, a slice designed for autonomous vehicles may prioritize ultra-low latency, ensuring real-time responsiveness, while another slice optimized for IoT devices might emphasize massive connectivity. This ability to customize network characteristics within slices is pivotal in meeting the diverse needs of various industries and applications.

Figure 3: Network Slicing Concept 

As part of 3GPP release 16 the Service Communication Proxy (SCP) has been introduced as a non-mandatory but vital node to have strong SBA deployment in coordination with multi-access edge computing (MEC) and it serves as a pivotal component within the 5G network, facilitating service-based communication between various network functions. Acting as an intermediary, the SCP ensures seamless interaction and coordination between functions such as the policy control function (PCF), user plane function (UPF), and network exposure function (NEF). It enables efficient handling of service requests, ensuring that data and control flow smoothly across the network, ultimately contributing to a robust and responsive network infrastructure and reducing the load on NRF (Network Repository Function)

Figure 4: SCP Function Description

Digis Squared stands out as a pivotal force in the domain of 5G system integration, renowned for its extensive proficiency in deploying both standalone and non-standalone 5G networks. our expertise spans across the entire spectrum of 5G infrastructure, encompassing radio, transport, and core networks. Through a meticulous approach to integration, we at Digis Squared ensure a cohesive and harmonized ecosystem, emphasizing seamless interoperability and optimal performance across these network layers.

Their in-depth understanding of 5G architecture enables us to tailor solutions that precisely address the unique needs and challenges encountered across diverse industries. For instance, in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, and entertainment, we at Digis Squared customize the integration strategies to accommodate specific requirements, whether it’s ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) for critical applications or massive machine-type communication (mMTC) for IoT devices as well as for the application that needs the enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB).

Digis Squared’s contributions extend beyond mere integration; they actively shape the 5G landscape by pioneering innovative solutions and best practices. Their role in driving the transition toward a fully connected future is instrumental, as they continuously refine their methodologies to adapt to the evolving demands of the 5G ecosystem. This commitment to innovation positions Digis Squared as a key enabler of the transformative potential inherent in 5G technology, propelling industries, and societies toward a more connected and technologically advanced era.

KATANA IPM Analytics

Leveraging advanced analytics and AI engine, IPM predicts and prevents network performance issues before they happen, building Capacity growth models and forecasting user behaviour and traffic load on the network, giving proper recommendations that keep network performance on track with this growth and user behaviour changes.

Figure 1: KATANA Platform Modules

IPM Analytics is the heart of KATANA IPM module, and it offers the below different uses cases.

Figure 2: IPM Main Functionalities sub-modules

Anomaly Detection:employs a machine-learning algorithm to understand the patterns of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), making comparisons and autonomously recognizing deviations. The resulting scores are presented for each instance, facilitating straightforward identification of anomalies and their deviation from the typical cluster or common behavioral patterns within the network.

Forecasting Analysis: iPM encompasses various forecasting techniques within a unified interface, granting users the capability to analyze anticipated future trends in network usage for any counter and Key Performance Indicator (KPI).

Figure 3: DL Traffic Volume Forecast

Capacity Management: As networks expand and experience heightened traffic, there is often a decline in network performance. To prevent this deterioration, iPM Capacity management function becomes crucial to enhance performance and restore it to its initial levels. iPM is Addressing traffic shifts requires the strategic rebalancing of network traffic, ensuring even utilization across the network, thereby deferring capital expenditures on new equipment.

Worst Cell List: The Worst Cell List Report, an integral component of our iPM capabilities, is robustly supported by ranking conditions tied to specific periods for designated Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This functionality empowers users to assess nodes with the poorest performance through detailed maps and charts.

Worst Degraded List: This module, seamlessly integrated into our iPM suite, efficiently troubleshoots and compiles a list of nodes with degraded performance over a specified period. It conducts in-depth analyses through maps and charts, facilitating immediate examination at the work area for detailed troubleshooting

Figure 4: Creation Criteria for WDL

Benchmark: After implementing an optimization action, users have the flexibility to initiate a benchmark across a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This benchmarking can be conducted on a Day-to-Day, Week-to-Week, or Month-to-Month basis, allowing for comprehensive performance evaluation over various timeframes.

Swap & Acceptance: In Swap Projects, users are required to compare Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) before and after the swap. iPM provides users with the convenient option to effortlessly compare the performance of vendors, facilitating a streamlined assessment of the impact of the swap on network performance.

Eagle Eye: Revolutionizing Mobile Network Testing with INOS

Introduction

In the world of mobile network testing, efficiency and accuracy are crucial for optimizing network performance. The “Eagle Eye” feature in INOS is a powerful tool that enables users to analyze large data sets in logfiles, extracting valuable insights through geofencing. This feature facilitates data-driven decision-making for network optimization.

Unveiling “Eagle Eye”

The “Eagle Eye” feature in INOS allows users to effortlessly search through logfiles containing millions of samples, making it a reality. Unlike the traditional method that required meticulous effort in recalling file names, dates, and locations, “Eagle Eye” offers an intuitive solution. Users can define their area of interest using geofencing, and the feature retrieves all relevant data within that area, saving both time and effort.

Figure 1

Optimizing Search Results

“Eagle Eye” offers various settings to streamline the search process, allowing users to optimize and narrow down their results efficiently. These settings include:

  • Time Aggregation: Users can pick time granularity (hourly, weekly, or monthly) to analyze data over specific periods, aiding trend identification.
  • Distance Aggregation: Users can set the desired distance aggregation for a detailed location-based network performance analysis.
  • Operator MNC/MCC: Users can filter their search results based on specific Mobile Network Code (MNC) and Mobile Country Code (MCC).
  • KPI Selection: Users can choose the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) they wish to extract from the logfiles.
  • Date Range and Time Clustering: Users can set a date range and cluster data in time to better understand network performance changes in specific periods.

Interpreting the Results

Once the search parameters are set, “Eagle Eye” presents users with an interactive map accompanied by a timeline.

Figure-2

“Eagle Eye” offers a user-friendly visual representation for easy navigation, providing insights into network performance across locations and timeframes. It also includes benchmark tables and histogram charts for comparative analysis and trend identification.

Use Case Scenarios

The application of “Eagle Eye” in INOS extends to various use cases like;

  • Pre-action Network Assessment
  • Performance Benchmarking
  • Team Performance Assessment
  • Investment Impact analysis
Figure-3
Figure-4

Conclusion

“Eagle Eye” in INOS is a game-changer for mobile network testing, with geofencing, result optimization, and visual representations that empower efficient insights extraction. It enhances decision-making, network performance, and operational excellence in mobile network testing.

Can you hear me now? AI-centred voice call quality testing

Can you hear me now?

In a world where mobile communication is focused on the use of apps and data, does the quality of a voice call still matter? And is it worth communications service providers (CSPs) spending effort on improving it?

In this blog post Amr Ashraf, Digis Squared’s RAN and Software Solution Architect and Trainer argues that “Yes, it absolutely is! Voice quality, and particularly silence within calls – can you still hear me? – is one of the most tangible aspects of network quality for end users.”

Read on for insights into Digis Squared’s AI-centered voice call quality testing capabilities, using INOS.

If it’s important, we call.

Does voice quality still matter? “Yes! As voice technologies continue to evolve, and call costs drop, it continues to be important to ensure that the quality and clarity of voice calls is maintained,” explains Amr Ashraf, RAN and Software Solution Architect and Trainer.

“The phone call, the most basic and original capability of the mobile phone service, is also the most tangible for end users. Despite the huge range of apps we have on our phones, more often than not, it’s a voice call that’s used for communicating the most important, most sensitive and most urgent information.”

If we can’t clearly hear and understand what is being spoken on a call, or in a voice note, whichever app or method is used to connect or send the audio, then the customer’s perception is always that the network coverage or capacity is of low quality.

“If you find yourself saying ‘Can you still hear me? Are you still there?’, or thinking ‘What did they say?’, then the assumption is that the ‘fault’ is a poor quality service from the CSP”, says Amr. “Of all the aspects of a mobile network, voice quality is the strongest and most obvious indicator to an end-user of the quality of the service. Customers’ expectations of voice quality remain high, whichever technology the digitalised sound is transmitted over.”

Voice technologies today

Today, whilst some traditional mobile voice calls are still carried over legacy circuit-switched networks, calls made over 4G and higher, and for all app-based solutions, these digitalised sounds are transmitted as Voice over IP (VoIP), Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi), all of which enable cost-effective ways to transport voice. Having a single solution that can assess voice quality across all technologies, in an automated and efficient way is vital – and in the web of complex multi-system networks, that AI-centred voice call quality testing solution must also work with solutions from all vendors.

INOS

Digis Squared’s INOS AI tool is a vendor agnostic, multi-network-technology solution delivering automated assessment, testing and optimisation of networks, across all technologies.

INOS & voice call quality testing

“If one of our clients – a CSP, MNO, MVNO or regulator – wants to better understand voice call quality on a specific mobile network, then we use our INOS AI tool to analyse the data,” shares Amr.

Image 1: voice codec rate. INOS analysis, for a specific drive test, on one mobile network, in Cairo

Notes on Image 1: For a voice call to be transmitted over the mobile network, it must first be digitized and compressed. Various standardized compression technologies, or codecs, are used to efficiently transmit the data. This image shows data collected during voice calls during a drive test, and the key on the left shows the codec used.

Enhanced Voice Rate (EVS) and Adaptive Multi-Rate (AMR) are audio compression formats used in the transmission of voice calls – EVS is a super-wide coding standard developed for VoLTE, and AMR is the older standard developed for GSM and UMTS (3G), sometimes called HD+.

Image 1 shows the variation in codec and compression rate utilised during test voice calls, made during a drive test. The changes in codec and compression rate are caused by changes in network coverage and capacity during the coverage, and will have resulted in fluctuations in call quality.

“Using INOS, we can simulate a customer call using the voice quality test to produce unbiased, industry-recognized audio quality scores,” explains Amr. “This test can reveal a great deal about your customers’ experience, as well as the quality of service being provided by your carrier. It also takes minimal preparation to undertake.”

Vital to this test is POLQA – Perceptual Objective Listening Quality Analysis – the global standard for benchmarking voice quality of fixed, mobile and IP-based networks. Standardized by the ITU in 2011, it is used for voice quality analysis of VoIP, HD Voice, 3G, 4G/VoLTE and 5G networks.

“So, whilst drive testing with the INOS kit, we set up a voice call and then use our own hardware solution to inject a POLQA reference audio into the voice call from one side of the call, and from the other side, we record the call, and then compare it using the POLQA algorithm.”

“Given that the POLQA reference audio is 6 seconds long, to analyse this data, we must split our call into audio files that are each only 6 seconds long. To ensure very precise splitting of the audio file, we leverage our AI engine to find the beginning of specific words in audio files. This way, we can ensure that we are aligning the analysis with natural speech patterns, and achieve a more realistic analysis of the data.”

Image 2: MOS score with 6 second sampling. INOS analysis, for a specific drive test, on one mobile network, in Cairo.

Notes on image 2: using data from the same drive test shown in image 1, now the data has been analyzed by INOS, and split into 6 second chunks, aligned with the start of specific spoken words in the audio file.

In telecoms, the Mean Opinion Score (MOS) is a numerical measure of the overall ranking of the quality of voice and video sessions. In image 2 above, we can see that on this journey, only a small minority of sections score the minimum 1 MOS (in black), and most of the call is green (MOS 3 and 4).

Image 3: MOS Score per call. INOS data, for a specific drive test, on one mobile network, in Cairo.

Notes on image 3: again using the same data as above, here the data is averaged out for specific calls, rather than 6 seconds chunks of a call shown in image 3.

INOS & silence within a call

“Silence within a call is a major problem with mobile phone conversations, and significantly impacts the customers’ perception of call quality. We’re all familiar with having to say ‘Can you still hear me? Are you there?’ whilst one of the people on the call is travelling in a car or bus,” continues Amr.

“To measure this, the Digis Squared team utilize our in-house AI capability within INOS to detect silence in voice calls, and analyse the percentage of silence.”

Image 4: Silence per call in seconds, INOS data, for a specific drive test, on one mobile network, in Cairo.

Notes on image 4: this analysis identifies areas where silence during the call was detected. Green indicates no silence, and in yellow, red and black are increasing amounts of detected silence.

INOS: automated, actionable voice call quality reports

INOS delivers automated voice quality reports, with customised KPIs, and actionable insights.

Amr concludes, “All our INOS reports can be fully customised, and are generated within 15 minutes of receipt of the data file, sent directly from the test devices in the field, over the air. What our clients find most useful is that not only are the reports conveniently formatted for immediate use, they also, thanks to our AI engine, clearly identify issues and provide actions which can be taken to address those issues. Data is no use without analysis, and the AI capabilities we have developed within INOS ensure that the analysis is fast, efficient and actionable.”

Find out more about INOS

INOS can be implemented as a public or private cloud, or on-premise solution, and is also available as a “Radio Testing as-a-service” model. Its extensive AI-analysis and remote OTA capabilities ensure speedy and accurate assessment of all aspects of network testing: SSV, in-building and drive testing, network optimisation and competitor benchmarking, across all vendors, network capabilities and technologies, including 5G, private networks and OpenRAN.

INOS is built with compute resources powered by Intel® Xeon® Scalable Processors. Digis Squared is a Partner within the Intel Network Builders ecosystem program, and a member of the Intel Partner Alliance.

In conversation with Amr Ashraf, Digis Squared’s RAN and Software Solution Architect and Trainer.

If you or your team would like to discover more about our capabilities, please get in touch: use this link or email sales@DigisSquared.com

 

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About Digis Squared

Managed Services, System Integration & Consulting. We transform telecom networks, deploy new technologies, and manage vendors, for network operators, service providers and regulators. Apply our vendor-agnostic expertise, automated AI-led tools and processes to transform your technical and commercial capabilities. We work with agility, deep experience, and our in-house cognitive tools to optimise and manage multi-vendor networks across all technologies. Headquartered in the UK, Digis Squared has offices in Angola, Egypt and UAE.

Digis Squared ◦ Enabling smarter networks.

Product update: INOS used in Pre-Launch Testing for Africell Angola Network

As part of the recent successful commercial launch of Africell Angola, the Digis Squared AI-tool INOS, powered by Intel® Xeon® Scalable Processors, was used as a key part of the network cluster testing and acceptance process. Digis Squared’s Key Account Manager for Africell, Ahmed Ma’moon, shares more.

“Digis Squared manages the entire end to end Managed Services for the new Africell Angola mobile network*. Ahead of the commercial launch on 7th April, and working closely alongside our partners, we ensured that the network was tested robustly before launch.”  [*Read more about that, here.]

“Whilst the capabilities of our vendor-agnostic tool, INOS, are extensive, in the pre-launch phase of the Africell Angola project, its major role was in field optimization following the SSV (Single Site Verification) and sites acceptance phase. The team used INOS devices out in the field in vehicles to collect network performance data for all live sites. We were able to optimise our resources too – thanks to the ability to remotely update scripts, we didn’t need to send engineers out into the field; the INOS kit can be driven to a specific location and along a predefined route by anyone, and the data is automatically uploaded into the cloud immediately.”

What is a mobile network cluster?

Mobile network coverage is often drawn as a honeycomb-like pattern of neatly meshing hexagons.

In reality, the coverage is not neatly tessellated hexagons, but very irregular shapes, due to the landscape, buildings and other features, and coverage from adjacent cells may overlap, or there may be some thin gaps. Mobile network planning engineers allocate different frequency bands (also called channels) to neighbouring cells – this helps to minimise interference even when coverage areas overlap slightly. The group of cells on different bands is known as a cluster.

INOS for Cluster Optimisation

Ahmed continues, “Working from Digis Squared’s offices, our engineers were able to control and update scripts remotely, push revised routes to drivers, and review data live in the cloud during the tests. During the pre-launch phase we ran field measurements using INOS for Luanda province clusters and sub-clusters, undertook the analysis to identify coverage issues, implemented optimisation changes live on the network, and then re-tested and benchmarked the results against the initial data.”

Above: Example INOS dashboard for field measurements used for analysis and optimization

“INOS’ AI-capabilities ensure that analysis of vast amounts of data is completed very rapidly – within 15 minutes of uploading data – so we were able to assess the results, implement fixes and re-run the tests very swiftly.”

Above: Sample coverage analysis algorithms in INOS

Comprehensive pre-launch testing to optimise for post-launch excellence

“INOS was a vital tool for us in the pre-launch field optimization activities for Africell Angola, to ensure best network coverage and performance, and excellent user experience after launch. INOS helped to speed up the field optimization process for all Luanda clusters, and complete the work in advance of the scheduled launch date.”

INOS & Intel

“INOS was a vital tool for us in the pre-launch field optimization activities for Africell Angola, to ensure best network coverage and performance, and excellent user experience after launch. INOS helped to speed up the field optimization process for all Luanda clusters, and complete the work in advance of the scheduled launch date.”

INOS can be implemented as a public or private cloud, or on-premise solution, and is also available as a “Radio Testing as-a-service” model. Its extensive AI-analysis and remote OTA capabilities ensure speedy and accurate assessment of all aspects of network testing: SSV, in-building and drive testing, network optimisation and competitor benchmarking, across all vendors, network capabilities and technologies, including 5G, private networks and OpenRAN.

INOS is built with compute resources powered by Intel® Xeon® Scalable Processors.

In conversation with Ahmed Ma’moon, Digis Squared’s Key Account Manager for Africell Group.

If you or your team would like to discover more about our capabilities, please get in touch: use this link or email sales@DigisSquared.com .

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Digis Squared, independent telecoms expertise.

Image credits: all images, Digis Squared

Digis Squared & Private Networks

Yasser Elsabrouty, Digis Squared Chief Business Officer and Co-Founder, shares updates on the Private Network approach Digis Squared is undertaking for clients, and developments in the pipeline. But first, what is a Private Network?

 

What is a Private Network?

Built specifically for individual businesses or organisations, these dedicated LTE or 5G networks have typically been envisaged for mission-critical or highly secure environments. Increasingly however, businesses are deploying them to ensure robust coverage and capacity, reinforce intellectual property protection, and deliver commercial independence from the major network operators and CSPs within their physical business campus-environment.

Private Networks can be deployed in many different shapes and sizes, using various mix and match combinations of spectrum, applications and other factors.

Deployment

  • Dedicated, on-premise networks for both radio access network and core network
  • Hybrid use of some public mobile components plus dedicated on-premise components

Spectrum

  • Industrial: in some countries, regulators allocate specific licensed spectrum (Germany and Japan for example)
  • Shared: regulators allocate spectrum which is shared by multiple stakeholders, under license
  • Public: MNOs or CSPs lease part of their licensed spectrum to an enterprise for a fee
  • Unlicensed spectrum: assigned by the regulator, non-exclusive, free-to-use

 

 

Digis Squared & Private Networks

Digis Squared provides end-to-end System Integration services across multiple technologies including RAN, 4G/5G Core, Security, Messaging and Cloud, covering design, installation, testing, managed services operations.

Yasser Elsabrouty, Digis Squared Chief Business Officer and Co-Founder shares insights into the Private Network activity of the team.

“At Digis Squared, we are providing end to end Consultancy and System Integration services to build private networks to meet our customers’ needs. We work very flexibly with our clients – some know exactly what they need, and will ask Digis Squared to manage the System Integration, deployment and operational aspects of their pre-defined project. Others ask us to define all end to end elements: the deployment model, Spectrum, Radio details, Core network, orchestration and applications. Our teams are able to work with considerable flexibility, and according to the customer’s requirements and use cases to ensure they have and optimised Private Network which meets their needs.”

“We also offer predefined mix and match ‘off the shelf’ models that can be used as a starting point, and then adapt and deploy for the specific, customised and bespoke needs of each customer. We can take into account their specific requirements, including the size of the facility, devices deployed, which machines need to communicate with which departments, and other considerations. Some clients are looking at Private Networks to resolve specific coverage issues, or explore latency management for time-sensitive networks (TSNs). Whatever the scope of the Private Network, project our teams are enabling customers to scale up their businesses, serving more customers and satisfying the ever-increasing demand for private networks.ֿ”

“Using this mix-and-match method, we are developing profiles for different kinds of customers that can easily be implemented as needed, depending on size, area, number of sensors and cameras, or any other parameter. This approach will save time in deploying systems for customers, serving more customers while ensuring top-quality, optimised installations.”

 

 

If you would like to arrange a dedicated time to talk with the team, please get in touch, sales@digissquared.com

 

 

Digis Squared, independent telecoms expertise.

We transform telecom networks, deploy new technologies, and manage vendors, for operators, service providers and regulators.

Apply our expertise, automated AI-led tools and processes to transform your technical and commercial capabilities. We work with agility, deep experience, and our in-house cognitive tools to optimise and manage multi-vendor networks across all technologies.

 

Discover more

 

Image credit: Sarah Doffman (Birmingham)