Indoor Radio Planning: A Practical Guide for GSM, DCS, UMTS, HSPA and LTE, Second Edition

5.3 Designing the Optimum Indoor Solution

The optimum indoor solution exists only in theory. All implemented indoor solutions will to some extent be a compromise. It is the main task of the indoor RF planner and the team implementing the indoor solutions to make a suitable compromise between meeting the design goals, securing the system for the future and designing and implementing the system to maximize the business case. You must also design the DAS so the antenna system utilizes the features, possibilities and limitations in the particular building to a maximum, in order to make the system applicable for practical implementation.

5.3.1 Adapt the Design to Reality

Even with theoretical knowledge on how to design the perfect indoor solution, the main task for the RF planner will often be to know when and where to compromise in order to implement the system in practice and still maintain an economical and high performing solution.

The preferred approach when designing and implementing an indoor coverage solution would be based on site survey with measurements, experience and the link budget. However, reality often dictates that the architectural and installation limitations, and cost concerns, play a major role in the final design (as shown in Figure 5.7).

Figure 5.7 The RF planner needs to adapt to the reality of the building

5.3.2 Learn from the Mistakes of Others

An old mountaineering ...