Analysis of Spectrum Evaluation for Local Mobile Networks: Case Study in Lae District

Papua New Guinea is preparing to embrace the transformative impact of 5G technology on its telecommunications sector. As network expansion progresses, it becomes more susceptible to various challenges that can potentially disrupt data transfer and degrade service quality. A comprehensive analysis of the existing issues affecting current mobile network services is essential to facilitate an effective transition to 5G. This study investigates the traffic patterns of GSM, 3G and 4G mobile services offered by the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in selected areas of Lae, Papua New Guinea specifically the Lae Central Business District, Eriku Shopping Centre and Lae Downtown. The study utilizes a PR100 portable receiver and MS2T07 spectrum analyzer with HE300 and ESLP9145 log periodic antennas to measure the spectrum receiver (Rx) levels and base station power levels. Emissions were detected within the guard bands of MNO traffic channels and the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) carrier, with signal degradation being attributed to factors such as multipath effects, including spectral broadening, Doppler spread, and Rayleigh small-scale fading. These issues were also found to be caused by backhaul limitations, complexities in multipath propagation, network power outages, and various types of interference. To address the issues, strategies such as reducing base station transmission power and mitigating external interference were implemented. As a result, a substantial reduction in received total wideband power (RTWP) levels and an improvement in overall spectrum quality were achieved. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for stakeholders such as the National Information and Communication Technology Authority (NICTA) and MNOs, serving as a technical reference for optimizing network performance and facilitating the deployment of 5G infrastructure.