Getting Started ICS Telecom PDF
Getting Started ICS Telecom PDF
Getting Started ICS Telecom PDF
Started
with ICS telecom EV
Technical Assistance
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS ....................................................................................................................................... 2
2. INSTALLATION ........................................................................................................................................ 8
8.2. Path Profile between a Network Element and a Point on the Map .............................. 68
2. Installation
2.1. HARDWARE AND OPERATING SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
The recommended configuration to run ICS telecom EV is:
− Intel™ i5, i7 2GHz multicore or more
− RAM: 16 GB or more
− Graphics adapter with memory of 2GB, OpenGL compatible, Full HD Display – 1920 x 1080.
− Hard disk: SSD 256 GB. Storage: 2To.
− DVD reader to facilitate installation from DVD-ROM disc.
− Internet access (Map access, ICS Online).
− Operating systems: Windows™ 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2016 (x64
and x86).
The current version of ICS telecom EV is 64-bit and works fine on 64-bit Microsoft Windows™
operating systems. However, some components like HCM module, MFC DAO, IRIS or SCRIBE could
not be 64-bit based to maintain compatibility.
From version 16.2, ICS Telecom EV supports multicore multithreading and parallel processing.
Several and concurrent ICS telecom EV working sessions could be run from one single computer.
In the multi-licenses mode, the application and its dongle are installed on a server that gives access to
a specified number of simultaneous users.
Install instructions are detailed in technical document INSTALLATION OF ATDI TOOLS available in
HTTP://WWW.ATDI-MAPS.COM/DOC/ATDI%20APPLICATIONS-FULL%20INSTALL%20INSTRUCTIONS.PDF.
Alternatively open Windows Explorer™ and navigate to the installation folder of ICS telecom EV, then
double click the executable ‘ICSx86.exe / ICSx64.exe’ (x86 / x64 ANSI version) or ‘ICSx86U.exe /
ICSx64U.exe’ (x86 / x64 Unicode version) to run the program.
After launching the program, the splash screen shows up for a few seconds, providing basic information
about the product.
A project in ICS telecom EV is the structure that combines layers, networks elements, simulation
parameters, and the set of technical features on the desired area. Understanding the concept of a
project is crucial for optimizing the work with ICS telecom EV.
The file containing the digital elevation model (.GEO; .RGE; .IC2) is the only mandatory to create and
load a project.
The links to all layer files defined in project, are displayed within the Project Content List (number 2). The
status of each file is shown as well as its size and compatibility with the GEO file in cartographic layers.
The buttons below this list, let the user clearing individual paths or browsing through Windows Explorer
to select the desired file(s).
The right side of the Project Manager window (number 3) presents a screenshot for the latest state of
the project. Namely, as soon as a part of the project is modified by adding or modifying a layer, a
screenshot showing the status of the project is saved in a BMP file. This file is then displayed in the
Project Manager unless no preview is available.
If the option ‘Force memory swap’ it is checked in the Project Manager Window, ICS telecom EV should
use the disk memory in parallel with RAM, to optimize the usage of the latter. Activating this option
may help in projects that are automatically resampled to lower resolution due to excessive size of
cartographic layers.
The user has 2 options to create links to individual files involved in a project:
2. By dragging and
dropping files onto the
Content area of the Project
Manager window. Use
‘Explorer’ button (for drag Drag and Drop
Figure 4 –Creating a project using drag and drop for layers from, Windows
Explorer
- Click ‘Save project’ to save the links in a .PRO file
To speed up project loading and simulation time (with less accuracy), it is possible to modify DTM
resampling factor with a value greater than 1 in the DTM resampling edit field, located in the upper
The DTM file used in the project is resampled by user specified factor as well Clutter, and Building layers
if they are available. The image file is not resampled, and it is loaded at original resolution.
The bottom area of the Project Manager window contains Recent Projects list. Click on the desired
project to display the attached links in the Content Area. Alternatively, highlight a project and click on
‘Select’ button. Finally, click ‘Load’ button to open the project into workspace.
A Project that is not listed in Recent Projects could be read directly by pressing ‘Open project’ button
and selecting the desired .PRO file. Its layers’ links are displayed in the Content area.
After a fresh installation of ICS telecom EV, the list of Recent Projects is empty and is populated with
projects on which user worked. Click ‘Remove from list’ to clear selected item or ‘Reset list’ to clear entire
list.
Checking the Status and cartography layers Compatibility column is important before creating a project.
Only valid projects can be loaded and the user must verify paths and if the Status column is invalid.
Moreover, if resolution and projection between cartographical layers are incompatible, the project may
not be loaded or loaded partially. For example, if the projection data of .GEO file is different than the
projection of other layers, only .GEO file is accessible after open the project. In case of .IMG file
incompatibility, an error message shows up and the link to the file is removed from the project.
All cartographic files should have the same grid code (projection) and it is recommended to keep the
same .GEO / .SOL / .BLG files resolution to avoid inaccuracies. In spite of this, the .IMG file resolution
can be better than .GEO layer one. More info please refer to 4-MANIPULATING THE CARTOGRAPHY.
Use ‘File Open project’ to browse for the *.PRO file and load it into memory. ICS telecom EV only
opens valid projects with compatible cartographic layers.
Just after the project is loaded, the GUI displays either the image layer (.IMG) or – in case image is not
used for the project – the elevation layer (.GEO).
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The Display Area is the working space of ICS telecom EV. It represents the map of the zone where a
user could design the network.
- Visualize cartographic layers - background images, DEM, clutter, buildings, vectors in two or three
dimensions (actually for 3D visualization an additional layer in separate overlaid window is used),
- Watch the graphical progress of simulation (unfolding) in real-time
- Examine results of simulations that are superimposed onto the active cartographic file
- Install network objects and links in a visual manner. Objects are the subject for simulations.
The geographical extents shown by the Display Area depend on zoom level, which can be easily adjusted
by:
- The mouse wheel: Zoom in/out from the cursor location used as center point.
- Zoom button from graphical menu bar (see section 3.4.11-ZOOM OPTIONS BUTTON)
Use <BACKSPACE> key or menu command ‘Map Map area Maximized, Display coordinates,
Display profile’ to switch between the following modes:
By using <F4> key, it is possible to change the way the layer is displayed. Depending on which layer is
visualised in the Display Area, different modification rules are applied as following options.
Note: Selected option is displayed in the window with ‘>’ symbol before name.
ICS telecom EV displays in 3D the different layers. There are 2 modes of 3D:
3D presentation in real time may consume a significant amount of RAM memory and processing.
Before activating 3D display – real time mode, select the ‘Map Layer’ option from ‘Map 2D Display’
main menu.
For moving in 3D real time display area, please refer to document 3DCONTROLS.PDF, which may be found
in TECHNICAL LIBRARY provided on installation media.
Options dialog in 3D real time display area, presents improves to 3D model as plot map on building
roofs, plot only terrain but not map and enable clutter layer. Besides, it is possible to analyze paths
Any command in menu followed by 3 dots, e.g. ’ ’ means that a dialog or other window is
associated with the function and it shows once it is clicked. In this example, the Project Manager window will
show up.
Furthermore, ICS telecom EV admits menu configuration. Please refer to document 542MENU.PDF, which may
be found in TECHNICAL LIBRARY provided on installation media.
Additionally, quick access buttons allow the user to open tool dialogs to change parameters related
Station list
Depending on cartographic settings, the coordinates may be displayed either as Easting / Northing
in meters or as degrees.
✓ As a number with 5 decimal places, where integer part means degrees and digits after decimal point
mean minutes and seconds dd.mmsss , e.g. 4 degrees, 24 minutes, 33.7
seconds East; 45 degrees, 27 minutes, 19.7 seconds North.
Note: Decimal places for minutes change in range 00-59, while decimal places for seconds change in range 000 – 599
(00.0 to 59.9 seconds)
Simulation results
Depending on the simulation being displayed on map, these may be (not all listed):
- Field strength value in dBµV/m, power level in dBm, and number of channels cx.
- Station number.
- Number of stations.
- Power in Watts or dBW.
- Value in m, m/10 (meters divided by 10).
- Value in µsec.
- Percentage.
- Angle.
- Throughput in kbps.
- Ratios in dB.
- User palette settings, available from menu command ‘Tools User palette’.
Typically, the palette consists of 11 colors. For field strength analysis, it is possible to “smooth” the map
by using 256 colors palette checking the ‘256 color palette (dBu)’ option in ‘Tools User palette’ user
palette settings.
The user may use default colors for the palette or set its own colors and save them to palette file (.P11)
for further use.
Note: In ICS telecom EV PINK color (corresponding to value 255) is used circumstances, e.g. to indicate areas of
interference.
The unit value corresponds to the type of simulation results displayed; the values may be expressed in:
- metres
- dBµV/m and in dBm: the value in dBm is preceded by ‘+’ or ‘-‘ sign to indicate positive or negative value.
The status bar displays contextual hints (on the left) for the current command or operation being
performed. It also shows progress of the simulation with time elapsed, increasing the time after each
site iteration. Besides, the bar presents information regarding current cut-off threshold for coverage
and provides additional data in the right corner such as the number of processors/cores/threads,
polygon vertices drawn/left, simulations left/total.
Station tree view provides the tree structure of the network in the project.
Activated objects are represented by a colored rectangle while the black ones (empty rectangles)
symbolizes de-activated objects. It is possible grouping sites according to coordinates, site code,
network ID, status and link hierarchy, doing right click on ‘Tx/Rx’ tree title to select the desired grouping
method. With an item (object) highlighted, doing a right click on it brings a context menu with functions
associated, such as parameters, coverage calculation, the possibility of linking to other objects, isolating
or showing on the map.
Databases / Thresholds Quick Microwave Path Rectangle Coverage My position Overlay ON Map Layer
Lists / SQL and Limits Network Analysis Mode Mode Tools calculation (Geolocat.) / OFF
Latest Height Mode TX/RX Link Polygons Lines and Path Zoom Reset /
Coverage Settings Mode Mode Tools vectors Tools Profile options Stop
- Station list.
- Microwave links list.
- Link list.
- Waypoint list.
- Bearings list.
- Localization lists.
- Internal and external databases.
- Load / Save/ stations and Microwave links from ICS Online
- Import / Export Smadef files. Figure 24 - Databases / Lists / SQL
Latest coverage button allows access to the different results computed during the work session such as
(not all listed):
- Interference.
- Visibility from a site.
- Transmitter coverage.
- Receiver coverage.
- Minimum Tx height calculation.
- Ec/Io.
- Best server margin.
- Delay spread.
- Tx/Rx mode (1st top button) allows “installing” on the map such network objects like transmitters,
direction finders, radars.
- Microwave mode (2nd button) is the mode for creating microwave links between points or network
objects.
- Link mode (3rd button) allows creating visual links between network objects. Use ‘Database Button
Link List’ to access link table and set parameters for the links.
- Path mode (4th button) offers the possibility to create a mobile path (vector-alike) and analyze it as
well as run specific simulations in dynamic mode for the waypoints within.
Figure 29 – Mode Buttons
Draw mask and rectangle tools are associated with many useful functions, which are available from
the context menu that shows up once the mask or rectangle is drawn/loaded/imported and the user
selects ‘Continue’. Clicking ‘Continue’ before an object is drawn/loaded/imported has no effect.
- Tx/Rx coverage.
- Tx/Rx uplink coverage.
- 3D coverage.
- Composite coverage.
- Best server and best activated server coverage.
- Site overlapping
- Simultaneous server and channels map.
- Differences between sites.
- Interlaced servers.
- Radar coverage map.
My Location Button centers the map on the given geographical location if the project
contains that location. A GPS receiver must be integrated to computer.
Figure 36 – My Location Button
At least one valid Digital Elevation Model layer file is mandatory for working with a project but other
layers are optional. All layers are loaded into memory excepting .IMG file which is read directly from
hard disk.
Especially .MIM and .BIM formats presents an attractive approach for background maps, as it can link
layers of different resolution and cartographic grid system. If .MIM file is used as image layer, ICS
telecom EV automatically selects the appropriate component image according to the current zoom
More about multi-map files and multi-map editor utility, which facilitates the creation of .MIM files can
be found in APPENDIX section 12.1 - MULTI-MAPS and in technical document MULTIMAP EDITOR available in
HTTP://WWW.ATDI-MAPS.COM/DOC/MULTIMAP%20EDITOR.PDF.
The grid code employed in the project is determined by the grid code of .GEO file.
It is necessary for other cartographic files to be in the same projection, that means, have the same grid
code. Otherwise, it could generate an incompatibility status. To check projection or grid code in ICS
telecom EV nomenclature, the Map information may be viewed through Map Properties key (press
<F3>).
Please note that coordinates in the Display Area may be presented in different projection than originally
coded – see Map properties Dialog information about Input / Output codes. The conversion can be
performed through the Coordinate Conversion Tool accessible from ‘Tools Cartographic conversions’.
Figure 40 shows an example for Grid IN code 1FR5 converted into Grid OUT code 4DMS (4 stands for
ellipsoid WGS84, DMS stands for Degrees Minutes Seconds), which is the default output grid. Other
output codes can be set either by specifying the desired grid code or by selecting the combination of
Coordinate System and Datum from the lists. Grid codes conversions that are often used may be
shortcut by pressing ‘Add Shortcut’ button. ‘Del Shortcut’ button deletes the highlighted shortcut and
‘Del list’ clears the entire list of shortcuts. ‘No coversion’ – if checked – ensures that original projection
is used.
More about available grid codes and datums can be found in 12.7 - GRID CODES LIST and 12.8 - DATUM
LIST of APPENDIX SECTION.
4.2. RESOLUTION
The file resolution, or pixel size (grid step), is the dimension of the single cell in cartography file. Same
resolution is recommended for .GEO / .SOL / .BLG files, except for the .IMG one, which can be better.
It is possible to work with .SOL / .BLG files with enhanced resolution than .GEO whenever the ratio
between both resolutions is an integer. All files are resampled to the resolution of .GEO file
automatically.
If DTM resampling factor is used during project loading, all files (except .IMG image) are resampled
either.
The resolution of cartographic layers that need to be loaded into memory (. GEO, .SOL, .BLG) has a
direct relation with available RAM memory and processing speed. If free RAM is limited, the project
could be resampled automatically.
One should bear in mind that resampling could enable project fast loading but at the cost of accuracy
in display and calculations.
The ‘Project Manager’ dialog offers the option ‘Force memory swap.' If this option is checked, ICS
telecom EV maximizes RAM and disk memory in parallel. This option helps to avoid the automatic
resampling of the cartographic files.
Finally, if an object is created on resampled cartography, its position is visually shifted to the center of
the nearest pixel, while the actual position from input coordinates may be slightly different.
2
3
1
Case 1 Case 2 Case 3 Case 4
Case 1: The Image and DTM are covering the same area. The display extent is identical for both and at
all points in this area may be reached.
Case 2: The Image covers only a part within DTM. DTM may be displayed in its totality by selecting ‘Map
2D display DTM layer’. All points having coordinates in common may be reached. The points
contained in the DTM file outside the Image are also considered, but the objects deployed at these
points can only be viewed if the entire DTM is displayed.
Case 3: The DTM covers only a region within Image. By default, Display Area shows the part of Image
common with DTM. Points common to both files may be reached. However, points located in the Image
outside the DTM file are ignored.
Case 4: The network file (.EWF) is loaded on the DTM. For instance, within a network consisting of 4
objects, which have been previously simulated and each object has an associated coverage, one of the
4 items (object #4 in Figure 41) is located outside the DTM. However, a portion of its coverage is
overlapping the DTM. In this case, the object may be either completely ignored or included in Display
Area as well in calculations such as interference, composite coverage with other objects inside the DTM.
To include such an object, which is outside DTM, the option ‘Ghost Tx Accepted Tx outside map’ in ‘File
Preferences’ should be selected.
More about user preferences can be found in section 12.3 - USER PREFERENCES.
Note: if you are using an online map layer version, it may take some seconds to update the display
area.
Drag
to
south
Draw a rectangle in the selected area. See Section 3.4.7-DRAWING TOOLS BUTTONS.
To preserve resampled area, it is necessary to save the project with a new name in menu in ‘File Save
Project.
Note: Original layers and their links in loaded project are not modified performing an area/resolution
change. For more details, please consult CUT MAP AND CHANGE AREA document, available in:
HTTP://WWW.ATDI-MAPS.COM/DOC/CUT MAP AND CHANGE AREA.PDF.
A Define Area dialog pops up. Select the adequate parameters regarding coordinate code, step
(resolution), sampling factor, and the link to external map location.
Cutting maps
To perform a map cut, draw a rectangle in desired area. See Section 3.4.7-DRAWING TOOLS BUTTONS.
Choose ‘Manage uncompressed maps Cut map (GEO/SOL/BLG)’ from context menu.
Note: before cutting a compressed map, it is necessary to convert it and uncompressing using the
conversion tool. For more details, please consult MANAGING MAPS document, available in:
HTTP://WWW.ATDI-MAPS.COM/DOC/MANAGING%20MAPS.PDF.
ICS telecom EV presents options to perform map conversion and compression. For more information,
please refer to MANAGING MAPS document, available in: HTTP://WWW.ATDI-
MAPS.COM/DOC/MANAGING%20MAPS.PDF.
5. Network Elements
ICS telecom EV supports various types of network elements or objects, which can be located on the
map to build a network.
A single project can display on map up to 5 000 fixed network elements, including microwave end
stations. A microwave link is an object containing 2 stations; therefore maximum 2 499 microwave links
can be installed on the map.
Also, one Mobile Path element which represents the path trajectory composed of segments separated
by nodes called Way Points, may also be settled on the map. A Path object can have up to 49 waypoints.
Network elements can be divided with regards to functionality and type of “ownership,” as it shown
below.
Satellite
(represented on earth)
Subscriber
User
Mobile (AGL)
Mobile (ASL)
Wind turbine
Microwave
Microwave link (consists of two network elements of Microwave type and a connection between
them, uni- or bi-directional)
Microwave Link
(uni-directional from 1 to 2)
(bi-directional)
Microwave Link
Microwave Link
Microwave Link
Microwave Link
Microwave Link
Microwave Link
Link
Link
Moreover, a Path object which could reflect the trajectory of a moving object, can be defined on top.
The way in which element symbol is displayed on the map can be selected globally through ‘Object
Properties’ dialog (<F5>) or individually through element parameters window (site tab).
5.3. SUBSCRIBERS
ICS telecom EV provides a powerful tool to analyze radio frequency objects and networks from the
perspective of users – subscribers.
Double click on the selected database to select and work with its content.
Having subscribers in the database allows using the functions grouped in menu ‘Subscriber ‘. Before
the first analysis, it is necessary to set up a subscriber objects on the map. To set up a subscriber, select
it from their corresponding record in the database. For example, ‘Select all’ button may be clicked to
have all subscribers displayed on the map. Additionally, the option ‘Display subscribers’ in ‘Object
Object properties (F5)’ needs to be checked; otherwise, subscribers are not visualized on the map.
Binding a subscriber with a station that serves it is called parenting. Thus, a subscriber can be either
connected (parented) or not connected (orphan). Parenting of subscribers is used by many subscriber-
related functions to analyze or plan a network. Parented subscribers can be made orphans by clicking
‘Change tech’ button from subscriber database and specifying value “1” for the field ‘declare orphan’.
More about subscribers can be read in technical document NETWORKS WITH SUBSCRIBERS, which may be
found in HTTP://WWW.ATDI.COM/DOCCENTER/SUBSCRIBERS.PDF.
5.4.2. LABELS
These options allow displaying a label next to each object providing selected information.
5.4.4. ICON
Options for choosing the types of pictures of objects on the map.
5.4.7. SUBSCRIBERS
Options influencing the visibility of subscribers on the map and controlling what type of information
associated with subscribers can be displayed as labels.
5.4.8. DATABASES
These options allow displaying on the map the locations of objects stored in station and microwave
databases. If ‘Callsign’ is checked, the location pixel gets a label additionally with station call sign.
5.4.9. INTERFERENCE/OVERLAPPING
The color selected in this dialog is used to visualize interference or overlapping of coverage on the map.
By default, pink color is used. It is recommended to keep this setting at the default value. Also; it is
possible to enable inter-station visibility overlapping distance.
− Loaded into the project: ‘File Load Load network file (.EWF/.EWX)’. The network file loaded replace
all objects present on the map
− Added into the project: ‘File Load Add network file (.EWF / .EWX)’.
Additionally, all network files from given folder can be loaded at one go: ‘File Load Load all
network files (.EWF) from folder’.
Network file can store not only the objects of the network but also associated individual coverage data.
Therefore, the file could contain the complete picture of the network under design.
Microwave
Link
Path
− Standard
Objects are placed on the map according to given coordinates and with technical/administrative parameters
specified by the user for each object via the ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window.
‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window allows setting all technical and general parameters of a network element. It
includes among other options:
- Callsign and other common parameters as well as transmitter technical characteristic - tab
‘General’.
- Antenna patterns, azimuths, and tilts – tab ‘Patterns’.
Note: ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ window may be adjusted (i.e. additional tabs added) depending on the type of network
element being characterised. For example, in case of radar object, an additional ‘Radar’ tab is shown.
− Semi-automatic
Objects are shown on the map according to given coordinates and technical parameters wich is taken from
a pre-defined Tx/Rx equipment database. Specify the desired height and frequency for the object to be
installed and make a double click on the chosen equipment record on the database list. The selected
equipment is positioned on the map. Before using it, go to ‘File Preferences’ dialog by checking the
option ‘Add Tx/Rx from list’ to activate Semi-automatic mode.
It is recommended to built up the database of equipment parameters before use this mode. The database
is available from the main menu at ‘Database Library Tx/Rx parameter database List’.
(if unchecked) specify technical/administrative parameters of the new element in the ‘Tx/Rx parameters’
window followed by clicking ‘OK’ button.
The new network element is installed and its symbol displayed on the map.
Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element; the cursor should become a hand, which indicates
its pointing to the network element.
Make left or right click and select the station to modify; the context menu appears.
The parameters of network element(s) can also be changed globally by selecting appropriate ‘Change’
function from ‘Object’ menu.
2D antenna
3D Patterns (1
polarization)
Spectrum XXI
NSMA 2D files (2
polarizations + XPD
from RPE database)
3D Parabolas
Antennas selection list
Figure 54 – Antennas selection list
From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 54indicates and select ‘2D antenna H+V (1 polarization)’.
Specify/modify correct
antenna parameters
on given tab(s).
From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 54 indicates and select ‘2D antenna H+V (1 polarization)’.
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From ‘:…’ button, select ‘Edit/select H- pattern.'
From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 54 indicates and select ‘2D antenna H+V (1 polarization)’.
From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 54 – Antennas selection listindicates and select ‘3D antenna (1
polarization + XPD)’.
From ‘:…’ button, click on ‘Select’ or ‘Import’
according to appropriate filetype.
and navigate to its location.
Compatible file types are .3D PLT
or 3D PAT.
Figure 57 shows an example for 3D
PAT filetype. Click on ‘View’ from
‘…’ button to open a new 3D dialog with selected antenna.
Specify/modify correct antenna parameters on given tab(s).
ICS telecom EV implements some reference radiation patterns defined by ITU in fixed, mobile and
satellite antennas services for different services. The user can select them directly from list in ‘Patterns’
tab.
Some antenna vendors provide patterns in NSMA (National Spectrum Managers Association) format
through RPE text,ADW or .DAT files.
From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 54 indicates and select
‘NSMA Antenna H+V (2 polarizations + XPD)’.
From ‘:…’ button, click on ‘Edit/Select.' The Antenna Selection Dialog
pops up.
Look for vendor and reference in list and select antenna.
Click ‘OK’ to confirm new values and close the RPE Pattern diagram editor.
Note: to add the new RPE antenna file to antenna selection list, select Save as from File menu. Then, navigate to
RPE folder in Library path, defined in Folder Locations. Finally, Save the ADW antenna file in their
For 3D parabolic patterns, user can import data from an external file, select them from the internal
database, from predefined patterns or define them manually.
From “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 54 indicates and select ‘Parabol (2 polarizations + XPD)’.
To load an RPE NSMA antenna pattern from an external file, from “Pattern” tab., expand the list as Figure 54
indicates and select ‘Parabol (2 polarizations + XPD)’.
It is possible to modify the pattern points clicking on Notepad button or for each polarization in their
corresponding ‘Edit’ button then changing azimuth and gain in left text box.
Choose ‘Add Station From coordinates’ or press <p> key (small caps); the ‘Site coordinates’ dialog
shows up.
Specify site coordinates according to currently chosen geographic projection; if working with 4DMS projection,
the ‘Alphanumeric grid’ converter may be used to provide coordinates in degrees/minutes/seconds string
format.
Click ‘Preview’ button to visualize the map around the coordinates and to verify entered coordinates. ‘Found
altitude’ text displays the altitude found both in memory (resampling may be in force) and in the elevation file.
A ‘Position error’ dialog emerges if specified coordinates are incorrect.
Note: closing the ‘site coordinates’ dialog with ‘x’ icon in the top right corner cancel
the operation.
The new network element is installed at given coordinates and its symbol displayed on the map.
Choose ‘Move’ from context menu. The symbol of the element changes black.
Locate the mouse cursor on new geographic position.
Alternatively, press <p> key (small caps) to specify exact coordinates in the current projection.
Note: Station(s) may also be relocated by using rectangle tool or mask tool. These tools allow move group of
stations as well.
1. Use ‘ Draw rectangle’ to draw a rectangle around station(s) to be copied. A context menu
appears.
6. Press <Esc> key to stop copying. The network element(s) is (are) copied.
Note: If more than 1 station is selected by rectangle tool, the copy function place all copied stations at the same
location.
1. Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element; the cursor should become a hand, which
indicates its pointing to the network element.
2. Make left or right click and select the station to be moved; the context menu appears.
5. Click ‘OK’ to create duplicate objects. The duplicated objects are created at the same location (site).
Note: station may also be duplicated by using rectangle tool or mask tool. These tools allow, as well, duplicating
a set of stations.
Isolating a network element denotes that all other network elements are switched off but the selected
one.
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Activating a network element(s), it signifies that it is switched on.
Note: Only active elements may be de-activated or isolated but only de-activated elements may be
activated.
1. Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element. The cursor should become a hand, which
indicates its pointing to the network element.
2. Make left or right click and select the station to change. The context menu is shown.
3. Depending on the desired task:
Note: Multiple network elements may be deactivated or isolated using rectangle or mask drawing tool.
Network elements may also be deactivated/activated /isolated from station list – open ‘Station list’ by
clicking button then, highlight desired stations and choose ‘Activate’, ‘Deactivate’ or ‘Isolate’.
‘Object’ menu provides additional ways for activating, deactivating or isolating network elements. For
instance, the stations may be isolated based on specific rules (‘Object Isolate’).
1. Locate the mouse cursor over the desired network element. The cursor should become a hand, which
indicates its pointing to the network element.
2. Make left or right click and select the station to be deleted. The context menu pops up.
4. Click ‘Yes’ to delete the object. The Station is deleted from the map.
Note: Multiple network elements may be deleted using rectangle or mask drawing tool.
De-activated network elements may also be eliminated from station list – open ‘Station list’ by clicking
button, highlight desired stations and choose ‘Del deactivated’.
‘Object Delete’ menu provides additional means for deleting network elements. For example, stations
may be removed according to the type.
A microwave link on the map consists of 2 fixed stations A, B, and a line connecting them.
3. Go to ‘Site’ tab.
4. Click the button with reference coordinates for site A. ‘Site coordinates’ dialog appears.
5. Set location coordinates for station A according to currently chosen geographic projection. If working with
4DMS projection, the ‘Alpha numeric grid’ converter may be used to provide coordinates in
degrees/minutes/seconds string format.
6. Click ‘Preview’ button to visualize in vignette the map around the coordinates and to verify position. Label
‘Found altitude’ displays the altitude found both in memory (might have been resampled) and in the
elevation file. A ‘Position error’ dialog shows up if specified coordinates are incorrect.
Note: Closing the ‘site coordinates’ dialog with ‘x’ icon in the top right corner cancel the operation without
updating the site.
The microwave link with end stations A and B at given geographical coordinates is settled on the map.
Apply steps described in Section 6.2.6 - MOVE A NETWORK ELEMENT to move microwave link’s end stations.
− Deleting entire microwave link from the ‘Microwave list’ – Recommended method.
− Deleting its end stations in Tx/Rx mode – see section 6.2.10 - DELETING NETWORK ELEMENT for details. This
way only removes one link element and It is necessary to delete the other end manually.
1. Choose ‘Database / List / SQL’ ‘Microwave list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Highlight desired microwave link.
3. Right click to show popup menu.
5. Click ‘Yes’. The record associated with the microwave link is deleted.
1. Choose ‘Database / List / SQL’ ‘Microwave list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Highlight desired microwave link.
3. Right click to show context menu.
4. Select appropriate profile: from station A to station B or opposite (only obtainable in bi-directional links).
A new Path profile window with path budget calculation shows up.
Additionally, it is possible to generate path budget report and profile sheet from Path Budget profile
window:
2. Left-click on the upper part of the ‘Profile’ window (above profile chart) and select ‘Report’.
Finally, it is possible to generate a complete profile sheet, including layers in DTM, for the microwave
link from Path Budget profile window:
2. Left-click on the upper part of the ‘Profile’ window (above profile chart) and select ‘Profile sheet’ from the
popup menu.
3. Provide information regarding ‘Tx name’ (side A), ‘Rx name’ (side B), and ‘Path name’ and click ‘OK’.
A new dialog with the Profile sheet for the link shows up.
1. Select ‘Database / List / SQL’ ‘Link list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Right click on desired link and select ‘Link parameters’. A new ‘Parameters’ dialog appears.
3. Modify the link parameters with new values.
Parameters of end stations can be modified by selecting ‘Station A parameters’ or ‘Station B parameters’
in step 2.
Note: Context menu offered after making a double click on link record provides some additional analysis for the
link such as Interference and frequency checking.
1. Select ‘Database / List / SQL’ ‘Link list’ from graphical bar. The list shows up.
2. Right click on desired link and select ‘Link parameters’. A new ‘Parameters’ dialog appears.
3. Modify the color with values form 0 to 15: 0 Automatic Color, 15, White..
Parameters of end stations can be modified by selecting ‘Station A parameters’ or ‘Station B parameters’
in step 2.
1. Open ‘Station link list’ window by choosing ‘ Database / List / SQL’ ‘Link list’ from graphical bar.
2. Right click on desired link and choose ‘Delete’
or
Highlight the link to be removed and click ‘Del selected links’ button on the left.
Note:
Multiple links can be removed by highlighting the desired records and using ‘Del selected links’ button.
Note: Waypoint 0 is for reference only and is not considered during calculations.
5. Click on ‘Parameters’ button to open parameters window associated with selected object.
6. Set up all desired parameters, in the same way as a fixed network element.
7. In the ‘Items’ subgroup of ‘Mobile report’ window, choose the component to display and change value
in each waypoint: height (ASL, AGL, relative to elevation at waypoint 0), power, field strength or tilt.
8. If it is necessary, provide values for the object such as height or power. Use Elevation Graph or Power Graph
button to adjust each waypoint manually. Use arrows keys (< >, < >) to navigate between waypoints
and <+>, <-> keys to change values in steps of 5. Confirm final value with <Enter> key.
Note: Selected height reference has influence on how the antenna height entered in parameters window is
interpreted, e.g. if ‘ASL elevation’ is chosen and value of 2 m entered in parameters window, each
waypoint evaluates the antenna height of 2 m above sea level.
Click ‘Save (TRK)’ button and provide a name for the file containing path. The path file has .TRK
extension.
2. From main menu by selecting ‘Object Delete Path’. This method is also available from other network
creation modes.
− Individual objects on the map– right/left click on the desired object to access context menu with relevant
functions.
− Individual objects via the site tree view on the right of ICS telecom EV main window – more on tree view
can be found in 3.3.8 - STATIONS TREE VIEW.
− Individual objects in ‘Station selection’ window pressing <TAB> key. Clicking on each object symbol it is
possible to activate/de-activate it. Right click opens its parameters window.
− Group of objects by using functionality related to draw mask / draw rectangle tools, and selecting ‘Stations’
submenu.
− Group of objects by using functions available for Station/Microwave/Link/Waypoint lists.
Some of the functions offered can work either in static mode (using static virtual network elements) or
in path mode using trajectory waypoints. In the latter case, a track is needed on the map as well the
Path mode activated (see sections 3.4.6 - MODE BUTTONS and 6.5-PATH MODE).
− H-pattern calculation ‘Direct H pattern calculation [From map points, From file]’.
This function determines the horizontal antenna pattern needed to cover given field strength level,
according to the technical parameters of the transmitter and the reception points. The point may be either
selected on the map (up to 100) or loaded from text file (up to 5000).
The network element is automatically installed on map with calculated antenna pattern and the azimuth
adjusted.
8. Path Profiles
Path Profile is a powerful tool employed in point-to-point analysis. It provides detailed information
about the propagation phenomena, visibility and terrain characteristics between transmitter (start point)
and receiver (end point).
− Network element’s context menu: ‘Profile to’ other network element, ‘Profile from’ other network element.
The options and functions are associated with the path profile drawn on the screen. Left-click anywhere
on the profile window, except profile chart area, to get the popup menu:
Once the desired parameter is adjusted (e.g. propagation model), the profile is redrawn automatically.
More detailed information about Path Profile can be found in technical document PASSIVE PATH PROFILE
WINDOW document from HTTP://WWW.ATDI.COM/DOCCENTER/PASSIVE%20PATH%20PROFILE%20WINDOW.PDF.
2. Click on desired start point to locate the transmitter. The ‘Parameters’ dialog for transmitter shows up.
3. Provide technical parameters for the transmitter:
‘Frequency (MHz)’, ‘E.I.R.P (Watts)’, ‘Tx antenna
(m)’, and ‘Rx antenna (m)’ then click ‘OK’.
4. Click on desired end point to place the receiver. The
‘Parameters’ dialog for receiver appears.
Figure 61 – Path Profile – TX Parameters
If a network element occupies the map point, it is still possible to locate the transmitter/receiver
independently from this object by doing a left-click then choosing ‘Continue’ when the mouse cursor
becomes a hand.
8.2. PATH PROFILE BETWEEN A NETWORK ELEMENT AND A POINT ON THE MAP
To generate a path profile between a network element and a point on the map is like generating the
profile between two points, considering that the object installed on the map acts as one of the points.
Either transmitter or receiver parameters are taken from parameters of selected network element.
1. Selecting both transmitter and receiver from existing network elements (see Section 8.2 – PATH PROFILE
BETWEEN A NETWORK ELEMENT AND A POINT ON THE MAP)
2. Using ‘Profile to’ or ‘Profile from’ functions, available in network element’s context menu.
Both transmitter and receiver parameters are taken from parameters of selected network elements.
9. Calculating Coverage
Once a network is built on the map, it is possible to obtain coverage calculation. Coverage is calculated
for each network element whereas the graphical progress of coverage appears clockwise around the
object(s) on the Display Area.
− Height mode (default is AGL). For instance, above ground level – see 3.4.4-HEIGHT MODE SETTINGS BUTTON.
Calculation speed can be enhanced using multi-core processing (if supported by hardware) - check
option ‘Multicore Parallelism’ in ‘File Preferences’. This option is enabled by default. More about this
option can be found in Section 12.3-USER PREFERENCES-USER INTERFACE.
The general model to work with should be the geometrical (physical) one, considering:
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− Propagation losses in free space.
− Diffraction losses.
− Sub-paths losses.
The diffraction component models losses due to obstacles in the path between Tx and Rx, for instance,
disturbing the upper part of I Fresnel zone.
Note: Earth radius (in sea or land) described in ‘Global parameters’, not corresponds to the physical one
(i.e. 6371 km.) but the effective radioelectric earth radius equivalent to about 4/3 of the physical value.
The sub-paths component reproduces added losses, which may occur due to disturbance of Fresnel
zone below LOS (line-of-sight) line. In a rigorous model, these losses are not diffraction but can be
worth considering in the total radio path budget.
Many of radio propagation studies can be satisfied with the following choice of propagation models:
Deygout 94
ITU-R 525 Standard
method
Coarse integration
Fine integration
As a rule of thumb, the selection of sub-paths algorithm may follow the table:
Low
COARSE FINE
(e.g. 100 m)
Medium
COARSE FINE
(e.g. 50 m)
High
STANDARD STANDARD
(e.g. 5 m)
ICS telecom EV can use maximum 20 classes of clutter. It is possible to select predefined values agreeing
to recent international recommendations. For instance, agreeing with CCIR, only 9 classes are well
defined and, corresponding to recommendation of EBU (UER), only 5. Additionally, attenuations
according to TSB-88 report are available (746-941 MHz). The default parameters of the classes can be
activated by selecting the CCIR or UER radio button in the ‘Clutter parameters’ window.
EBU/UER EBU/UER
Code CCIR Class Code CCIR Class
Equivalent Class Equivalent Class
Using default values from CCIR or EBU (UER) is not obligatory. Custom values may be entered for linear
and flat attenuations as well as clutter heights.
In addition to flat attenuation values and height of clutter which are significant in diffraction loss
calculation, others radio-frequency characteristics can take into consideration:
Note: Rx over ground relaxed allows mitigating the situation that receiver is sunken within heavy clutter.
Detailed information about how clutters are handled by ICS telecom EV can be found in the document:
‘CLUTTER PARAMETERS, which may be found in ATDI DOCUMENT CENTER at
HTTP://WWW.ATDI.COM/DOCCENTER/CLUTTER%20PARAMETERS.PDF.
- From graphical bar, click on button ‘ Settings Limit distance xxx km’, where xxx stands
for current distance limit.
- From control buttons in the higher right corner click on ‘ Coverage calculations and
analysis‘ ‘Tx/Rx FS coverage calculation’ to open ‘Coverage parameters’ dialog.
− Individually per network element
- Select the object in map, click on ‘Parameters’ to show the parameters window.
- Finally and to modify the calculation mode, from graphical bar, click on button ‘ Settings
Limit distance from stations’.
Note: For radar objects, the limit is calculated automatically – radar limit parameter. If global distance limit is
shorter than radar limit, the coverage of radar is adjusted accordingly.
The threshold typically follows the link budget calculations or is chosen according to technology used
in the network. ICS telecom EV allows choosing from pre-defined list of technology-specific thresholds.
Threshold can be configured globally for entire network or individually per network element. To start
threshold setup, from graphical bar choose button ‘ Settings Threshold’.
In ‘Global threshold’ mode, the threshold is always expressed in field strength units – dBuV/m (often
abbreviated as dBu).
The pre-defined list of technology thresholds is available to choose from by clicking the button ‘ ’,
located next to Threshold value field.
Note: Pay attention to option ‘Minimum coverage value (dBu)’ in preferences – see section 12.3.3 - INTERFERENCE
for details. Value specified there limits the coverage displayed on the map. It may be the case the coverage
is calculated to the threshold but finally not displayed because of the limit specified in preferences.
More about field strength vs. power level and threshold settings can be found in the document: ‘FIELD
STRENGTH AND POWER RECEIVED IN ATDI TOOLS’, which may be found in
HTTP://WWW.ATDI.COM/DOCCENTER/FIELD%20STRENGTH%20AND%20POWER%20RECEIVED%20IN%20ATDI%20
TOOLS.PDF.
− Network objects.
− A Coverage prediction model.
− Clutter settings.
− Calculation distance.
− Cut off threshold.
To start calculation:
2. Make sure the receiving antenna height, the distance, and the threshold values correspond to desired ones.
3. Click ‘Start’ button to initiate calculation of coverage. The progress is manifested graphically around
activated station and the radials appear clockwise until calculation is finished. The process is continued until
all activated stations are calculated.
4. Coverage map is displayed in the Display Area (unless threshold or height reference settings prevent it).
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9.6. COVERAGE CALCULATION OPTIMIZATION
To improve time consumed and result accuracy, it is important to heed some factors regarding
cartography resampling factor, clutter, and distance for calculation.
Chose the option “Limit distance from stations,” to use a specific distance from each site to calculate its
coverage. For example, low power stations might be computed using a smaller range than high power
ones. Assign the minimum distance to each station to cover the area of interest optimizing the
computing time. Set up this distance for each element in its Parameters window, Site tab:
Tip: For example, for non-deterministic models (such as ITU-R P.1546, ITU-R P.370, ITU-R P.368), there
is no necessary to perform coverage calculations with a 20m dataset. A 100m resolution is enough.
Note: Using High-resolution databases (1 to 5m), a generic and straightforward propagation model is
recommended. See section 9.1-Propagation model. Regarding ITU-R P.452 and ITU-R P.1812,
the computing time required for High-Resolution databases is prolonged. Moreover, the way
these models are dealing with obstacles does not justify the use of HR databases.
Check only the specific clutter where the coverage calculation should be performed. Only field strength
values or interference values superimposed over selected ground occupancy code(s) is calculated.
Additionally, coverage calculation may be done within a specific altitude range in the DEM. Use the
fields min elev (m) and max elev (m) for that.
Maximum distance (global) for the calculation may also be addressed from this window, by clicking the
button . Additionally, Check the box “Near/far field calculations” to perform coverage
calculations in the near field.
− Choose the analysis from menu ‘Coverage Network analysis’ (full set of analyses).
−
Figure 72 – Network analysis
Next figures show some analysis examples (the list does not cover all available analyses):
Best Server coverage in default
Composite coverage Site Overlapping
(and in user) colors
Shows composite map of Shows areas covered by Shows in pink the areas
field strength. best station (best serving that are covered by both
'Coverage Network station), in objects’ default stations, i.e. stations
analysis Composite or definied by user colors coverages overlap there.
coverage display'. (window ‘Parameters’, tab 'Coverage Network
‘Site’, parameter ‘Site analysis Coverage
color’). overlapping '
'Coverage Network
analysis Best server 1st
server '.
The coloring of any map is dependent on color palette. The colors may be either adjusted automatically
by ICS telecom EV (default) or be customised according to user needs (colors, labels, thresholds of
values). The default palette can use 256-colour depth to present maps in a smooth manner.
From main menu, select ‘Tools User palette’ to open the palette window:
Aditionnnally, customised palette can be saved onto disk in a (.P11) palette file and loaded at future
time.
Coverage map can also be modified by filtering out the desired values. The filters may be general as
well as performing specific action, i.e. limiting the field strength values. To open the ‘Filter’ window,
from main menu go to ‘Map Filter General filter’ after finishing the coverage calculation.
− Clutter choice.
− Elevation min/max.
− Value min/max.
By selecting the desired ranges and clicking ‘Compute’ button, it is possible to report basic statistics
within area covered (i.e. meeting the filter criteria). Once the filter is applied by clicking ‘OK’ button,
results for filter criteria are displayed with different color in map.
The general filter window is also used to report the percentage of a polygon that is covered:
1. Click ‘ ’ button and select ‘Draw mask’ or ‘Load mask’ or ‘Import polygon’ and
click continue on the context menu once it appeared.
2. From popup menu select ‘Percentage covered’ to open the general filter window.
Finally, various useful reporting utilities are available from ‘Reports’ menu. For instance, ‘Reports
Coverage Report’ provides best server and interference area statistics for each network element.
Additionally, ‘Reports Polygon Covered’ allows reporting the coverage statistics within polygon; the
polygon may be present in the vector file or be loaded from shapefile (.SHP) or MapInfo interchange
file (.MIF).
− C/I method - used for analyzing interference between signal of same bandwidth.
− IRF (NFD) method – mainly with signals with different bandwidth.
− W/CDMA Maps.
As example, C/I mode will be presented in this section. The concept of IRF (NFD) and methods of
acquiring IRF values are addressed in Section 12.2 - INTERFERENCE REJECTION FACTOR (NET FILTER
DISCRIMINATION) and in tehcnical document INTERFERENCE REJECTION FACTOR (Net Filter Discrimination),
available in HTTP://WWW.ATDI.COM/DOCCENTER/INTERFERENCE%20REJECTION%20FACTORS.PDF.
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C/I protection ratio characterizes the ability to receive the wanted signal (C) in the presence of
interference (I). For example, for co-channel signals, C/I = 14 dB means that the wanted signal must be
at least 14 dB better than interfering signal of the same frequency (co-channel), in order the receiver
decodes it properly. Minus values mean that wanted signal can be weaker than interfering one by given
number of decibels.
C/I ratios can be acquired from three sources with the following priority:
If C/I is not found (e.g. no NFD matrix), the available C/I tables are looked up in the second instance,
provided the check box ‘C/I from ITU-R …’ is checked.
Finally, if the C/I is still not found, the C/I is taken from the user-defined mask for channels ‘N=0’ (co-
channel), ‘N=1’ (adjacent channel), ‘N=2’, and so on.
Having defined the required protection ratios, click ‘OK’ button to confirm C/I settings.
Returning to ‘Interference (C/I)’ window, the rules for calculating the interference need to be set. ‘Global
interference’ requests the validation of any signal present at the pixel of digital map – if at least one is
found interfered, the pixel is regarded as interfered. ‘Interference + best server’ analysis limits the
judgment interfered/not interfered to the best serving signal only. Therefore, is much more optimistic
on the one hand but typically reflects the usual condition of the network (i.e. without stations outages)
on the other.
Should the network elements be using multiple radios, the option ‘Multi-channels’ must be activated.
Otherwise, the frequency assignment process do not recognize this requirement.
Finally, click ‘Start’ button to begin the analysis of the interferences. As its result, the interference report
is created and displays the map of interfered. The areas of concern are colored in pink by default or by
user-defined color, which can be chosen in ‘Object Object properties (F5)’ by clicking the color box
in ‘Interference/overlapping’ group.
The ‘Frequency assignment’ engine is available from menu ‘Coverage Network planning Network
frequency assignment’.
Before starting the process of automatic frequency assignment, the engine needs to be set up with
various parameters, including:
Frequency assignment mode depends on the availability of the frequency channels for the network.
The user has available the following options:
− Segment of wider band, which need to be “populated” with channels of given width and spacing – ‘Band
assignment’ may be used.
− Frequencies organised in groups – ‘Group assignment - multi-channels’ may be utilized.
− A few frequencies listed – ‘List assignment’ may be used to enter or load frequencies and use them for
assignment process.
Typically the networks of low-frequency reuse (e.g. GSM, TETRA or broadcasting) can be assigned by
iterative or sequential methods. Sequential method is quicker but less precise as it does not consider
interference coming from stations, which are still in the queue for assignment. Networks of higher
frequency reuse (e.g. WLL) would probably require Monte Carlo method.
The exhaustive method is the most complex and time-consuming as it is independent from number of
defined passes and analyses all possible combinations, seeking the best solution for assignment and
lowest interference. The limit of analyzed combinations is 232 (4 294 967 296).
The rules, which are applied for seeking the assignment solution, typically depend on type of network
under design, requirements for frequency allocation and available channels.
With the frequency assignment configured as well desired parameters, the frequency assignment
process can be started by clicking ‘Start’ button. After the completion of the allocation, the ‘Frequency
Assignment’ report shows up. The assigned frequencies can be displayed as black labels next to each
network element by pressing <f> key on the keyboard. The frequency assignment may be followed by
re-run of interference analysis to check the impact of new frequencies on the coverage.
Note: Interference analysis and frequency assignment are fully described in the document: ‘FREQUENCY
ASSIGNMENT AND INTERFERENCE ANALYSIS.PDF’, available in
HTTP://WWW.ATDI.COM/DOCCENTER/FREQUENCY%20ASSIGNMENT%20AND%20INTERFERENCE%20AN
ALYSIS.PDF
11. Printing
After network design and analysis process, it is common to prepare printouts – maps.
Printing functionality is available from various functions and dialog windows of ICS telecom EV. It may
allow printing of, e.g., a part of a project, reports and analysis, microwave link budgets, results list, path
profile and so on.
The maps can be printed from the main menu or using the rectangle tool.
- ‘File Print Print map.’ Including options for setting up printouts with maps and legend.
- ‘File Print Print Layout’ Facilitates creation of layouts, which can be stored as
templates for further usage.
Batch printing of individual profiles for microwave links and subscribers can be performed with function
‘File Print Batch profile [Microwave links, Subscribers]’. Profiles for subscribers can be printed
for both directions with path budget or without.
Batch printing of reports for microwaves links and stations is possible through function ‘File Print
Batch report [Microwave link report, Station report].'
− Output layer group allows selecting what layers to be printed (image, results, objects).
− Objects section, allows setting the legend, the options on how objects are printed (site numbering on/off
and object properties). ‘Plot File Name’ button provides a way to include in the printout (and in the map
displayed in Display Area) an additional result layer from external text file. The hint on required format of
the text file is shown once the button is clicked.
− Image treatment group allows setting graphic parameters of the map and result layers.
− Output selection group lists the basic information of the output.
− Output button opens the ‘Print Setup’ dialog. This dialog allows selecting the desired output device
(hardware or disk file) and setting the parameters of the printout like page orientation, image quality, color
depth, scaling options, and so on.
− ‘Preview’ button provides the feel on how the printout will look like with the selected settings.
− ‘Site by site’ checkbox, if checked, prints the individual maps for each activated network elements. Legend,
additional plot file, and preview are disabled for site by site printing. After printout is done, the coverage of
last site in the queue is displayed.
Legend:
The legend for the printout may be set up by clicking ‘Legend’ button available in the ‘Print Options’
dialog, which helps to customize the layout and content, including following options:
− Labels generated automatically for thresholds related to the type of result map but they may be changed
manually or removed from the legend. Check appropriate ‘Removed’ checkbox next to the item to remove
it from printout.
− Layout, which by default is single column layout. Up to 3-column layout may be set up with Title, Subtitle
and legend text. Adjust the design to the needs and paper size. Also, text within columns can be aligned to
the left, right or centered.
− Logo images. Up to 2 images can be defined, Logo 1 and Logo 2. By default, the tool suggests standard
logotypes located in the ICS telecom EV installation folder. Both logos are placed vertically in 1st column. In
single column, the size of default images at 96 dpi are Logo 1 200x40 pixels, Logo 2 200x200 pixels. For
multiple columns, both logos are displayed in 1st column but their width can be multiplied accordingly.
− Use BMP as legend. This option allows replacement of standard legend by custom legend prepared in the
form of 96 dpi bitmap. The width of legend bitmap should not be larger than 192 pixels (1-column layout),
374 pixels (2-column layout) and 480 pixels (3-column layout).
From the list of available objects, drag an item into the layout to include it on sheet.
To remove or resize an object do a right-click on it and select ‘Remove Item’ and ‘Resize’ accordingly.
Resizing of text box is not possible and it depends on the font size selected.
Items Options:
Each object has associated options, appropriate for the function it serves. Do a right-click on an object
and select ‘Options’ depending on type of an object:
− Vertical Pattern can be displayed in polar or Cartesian view; the latter can be either in logarithmic or in linear
scale, within given range of angles.
− Parameters can be adjusted according to details of information to provide as well as text style to be used.
− Legend can be vertical or horizontal showing labels and values. Labels can be entered manually by the user.
− Maps can be printed as image or terrain elevation and have coverage (result) layer superpositioned. Image
treatment slider is available to adjust individual look of the printout. The geographical extents of the printout
can be adjusted by entering the distances East to West and North to South. The way how objects will be
printed depends on ‘Object Properties’, available by clicking the button labeled identically.
− An image is a placeholder for raster figures of various types like BMP, TIFF, PNG, JPG, GIF, EMF, WXF, WMF.
Example usage is to include the company logo on the printout.
− Text Box can be used to create custom text strings and place them on the printout. Text formatting options
are available to adjust font type, size, style and align the text within the box. ‘Insert field ’ button gives
access to pre-defined auto-texts, such as Call sign, Frequency or Data/Time.
12.1. MULTI-MAPS
Multimap is a file type which can link together multiple resolutions image files and coordinate grid
systems. Components of multi-map file are in compressed .RIM format. The resultant multi-map file is
stored in .MIM format. This file format can be used directly in Project Manager as image background,
instead of .IMG file.
Multi-map .MIM file can be composed from .RIM files using the inbuilt utility available at ‘File
Multimap editor’. Compressed image files or .RIM files can be prepared in turn using another related
utility, available from the multi-map editor window. The utility works in batch mode, so multiple .RIM
files can be prepared at one go with minimum preparation of required inputs.
RGE, RSO, RFL and RCO files can only be created and used by ICS manager. ICS telecom EV can only
use RIM files. Therefore, only RIM files and corresponding MIM files are referenced hereafter.
The multimap editor window as of the utility is just launched contains no information. It is necessary to
designate a name for a new multimap file first or open an existing .MIM for editing by choosing either
‘File New’ or ‘File Open’ from the menu.
Once a .MIM file is opened, the tool scans the folder of that .MIM seeking for available .RIM files. The
files found are displayed on the list in the lower part of the editor. The top list shows the content of the
.MIM opened/created; shows no files for newly designated multimap file.
Each of individual .RIM files can be previewed for reference – highlight the desired file and click relevant
‘ ‘ button to open ‘Map display’ window.
.RIM files that are components of .MIM file are added from list of available file to the content of .MIM
file – use buttons ‘ ’ or ‘ ’. After all desired files are added, make sure the .MIM file is
saved onto the disk by selecting ‘File Save’.
New…
Having made a selection a standard save file dialog ‘Select file location’ is opened to
specify the path and name of new MIM file.
Opens a standard open file dialog ‘Select multimap file’ to read existing multi-map file
Open…
from disk.
Close Closes the multi-map file that is currently being composed.
Save Save the selection of .RIM files into previously designated MIM file.
Exit Closes the ‘Multi map editor’.
Menu ‘Help’
Help… Currently no action assigned.
Buttons
Batch conversion Runs the routine for batch converting of IMG/PAL files to RIM files.
Once the input file is ready, it can be selected in the standard open file dialog ‘Select batch file’, which
shows up after confirming the procedure by clicking ‘OK’; the conversion is started afterward. The
prepared .RIM files can be used to compose a multi-map file .MIM.
After loading the project, it is possible to indicate in the Display Area regions covered by the multi-map
defined in the project setup – press <SPACE> key. The areas covered by multimap are highlighted by
red rectangles around.
Following ETSI definition of Net Filter Discriminator (NFD), the notion can be explained as the ratio
between the interfering power and portion of the interfering power falling into the victim Rx filter.
In ICS Telecom, the IRF can be defined by masks, matrices or tables. The example IRF mask and matrix
are shown in the figure:
An NFD matrix represents the interference rejection factor (IRF) of the receiving equipment against a
given transmitting equipment for a given frequency delta. Set of matrices must be prepared to take
into account all pairs of transmitter-receiver equipment, for each transmitter and each receiver in the
network under design.
The drawback of IRF is that it requires significantly more information about transmitter and receiver
equipment. Often such information can be difficult to obtain, but ICS telecom EV provides some means
that can aid in defining the IRF. They include mentioned pre-defined tables and IRF Calc utility
(described further down) for example.
− Calculated automatically as IRF matrix and saved to .NFD file, with the help of IRF Calc utility.
Additionally, as mentioned, the IRF values can be derived automatically from pre-defined
recommendation tables for interference analysis.
The engine for interference analysis in IRF mode (‘Coverage Network interference IRF mode’)
allows specifying the sources the IRF will be taken from. The priority of acquiring the IRF value is the
following:
− Priority 1: NFD matrix
− Priority 2: pre-defined tables
− Priority 3: user-defined IRF mask.
More about IRF (NFD) can be found in the following documents from Online Documentation Center
provided:
− the quick method by specifying rejection values for up to 11 frequency deltas in MHz – ‘Shortcut’ group
Quick method is self-explanatory, frequency offsets (deltas) are entered in 1st column while
corresponding IRF values in 2nd. Clicking ‘Update’ button to interpolate values for all -89 ÷ 89 steps.
The standard method requires entering rejection values for the [-89 ÷ 89] frequency steps (defined in
‘Step’ field) or at least for positive half [0 ÷ 89] only – the negative offsets will be interpolated once
‘Interpolate’ button is clicked. Of course, full set of data can be specified as well.
1. Load transmitter’s PSD file: button ‘Load .ts’; the PSD curve appears on the top graph
2. Edit header of the PSD and save as .ts file, if required
4. Load receiver’s Rejection Filter characteristic file: button ‘Load .rif’; the rejection curve appears on the
middle graph
5. Edit header of the Rejection Filter and save as .rif file, if required
It is possible to create NFD files for all pairs of PDS/RF files found in the folders specified by the user.
This can be done in ‘Batch mode':
More about IRF Calc can be found in the document IRFCALC_V2.PDF from Online Library in
HTTP://WWW.ATDI.COM/DOCCENTER/IRFCALC_V2.PDF.
12.3.1. ANTENNAS
This group of options relates to the way how the antenna patterns are handled.
− Enhanced ERP/a3d Xpol – XPIC . The option allows taking into account the cross-polar discriminations
(during interference calculations or during calculating the wanted power in path budget) of antennas, which
patterns were defined by RPE files or A3D/X3D files.
Tilt and resolution from Tx/Rx parameters. Type of tilt (mechanical, electrical, rotary) is set for individual
network objects
Mechanical tilt. Tilt is regarded as mechanical.
Electrical tilt. Tilt is considered electrical
Rotary. Tilt is regarded as rotary; this is for rotary antennas (radar).
12.3.2. STATIONS
− Add Tx/Rx from list
If checked, the network element being added takes technical parameters from records stored internal
equipment database (‘Database Other databases TxRx parameter database’). Equipment
database should be populated before checking this option.
− Circular calculation limit
if checked, the coverage of an object is calculated according to circular distance limit. Otherwise, the
coverage boundary is rectangular; this circular coverage limit is automatically unchecked for Grid-Step factor
greater than 1 (button ‘ Grid step factor’)
The following options apply to various functions, which provide results dependant on a range of heights
and allows setting the minimum/maximum range of heights permitted:
12.3.3. INTERFERENCE
− No MW ATPC
If selected, Automatic Transmit Power Control (ATPC) is not taken into account for microwave link
interference calculation.
− Wanted power = P-ATPC / Unwanted = P
If selected, ATPC is taken into account in wanted power calculation for microwave links
− Wanted power = P / Unwanted = P-ATPC
If selected, ATPC is taken into account in unwanted (interfering) power calculation for microwave links
− Wanted power = P-ATPC / Unwanted = P-ATPC
If selected, ATPC is taken into account in calculation of both wanted and unwanted (interfering) power
− MW passive interference mode
if checked, the interference calculation takes into account the unwanted power from passive reflectors,
provided they are used by microwave links installed on map or present in MW database
− Change MW color if conflict (margin<2, TD>0, path)
12.3.6. SUBSCRIBERS
− Max parented subscribers per station (bit rate parenting)
The maximum value for the quantity of subscribers that can be parented to single station in bit rate
parenting mode
− Max movable distance (mobile subscriber)
Maximum allowed movable distance for subscribers defined as mobiles. Introduces a pseudo-random
behavior of subscribers during planning (e.g. parenting, prospective planning, interference, etc.) - mobile
subscriber may be relocated to new locations within the maximum allowed movable distance.
− Subscriber/station call-sign checking
If checked, the parented subscriber is shown orphaned on the map, if its callsign does not match the parent
callsign, e.g. after callsign of parent station is changed.
− Orient sub antenna – parenting
option related to subscribers; if checked, each parented subscriber gets its antenna oriented (azimuth and
tilt) towards the parent station.
If checked, ‘Select external program’ dialog shows up, and the user can select a custom application for
reporting purposes. The ‘ ’ button allows selecting the executable regardless the status of the check box.
− Shared DB station/MW
If checked, multiple instances of ICS telecom EV can share the same database of stations and microwaves;
this is useful to speed up calculations and analysis of wide networks, consisting of significant number of
elements
− Shared .CSV reports
12.3.8. BUTTONS
- Model. Opens the window of propagation model definition
- Clutter. Opens clutter options parameters window
- Indoor. Opens a dialog where parameters of material of which building floors are made of; used
for indoor calculations
- Status. Opens a dialog to set status flags that can be used for objects.
- Load. Recalls a previous .PRM saved set of preferences.
- Save. Saves onto disk a parameter file .PRM with a set of preferences.
- Library. Sets path to the folder with the internal databases containing antennas, equipment,
subscribers, frequencies and so on.
- Satellite. Sets path to satellites databases and GXT Files.
Technical assistance Getting Started ICS telecom EV - 106/123
- WSD. Links folder to White Space Maps.
- Plugins. In this folder the user can place external propagation models and add-ons.
- SQL. Sets the path of links with SQL databases used.
- Project. Defines the default location to load and save project files (EWF, PRO, FLD, etc.). If not set,
the last location used will be recalled.
Note:
Older versions of project file had *.PRJ or *.PJT extensions.
*.GEO: Cartographic data file containing Digital Elevation Model; can be modified by the user as altitude of
pixels can be changed; 16 bit raster file coded on 2 Bytes
*. IDR: Equivalent of Digital Elevation Model for indoor projects; contains definitions of materials used for
the floor of building – concrete, bricks, wood, etc.; 16 bit raster file coded on 2 Bytes
*.IMG: Cartographic background (image) file that can contain map or sattellite image; 8 bit raster file coded
on 1 Byte
*.PAL: Pallete file that accompanies the image file; ensures proper display of the image file
*.SOL : Cartographic data file containing Land Use / Land Cover definitions; can be modified by the user as
clutter code of pixels can be changed; 8 bit raster file coded on 1 Byte
*.EWF: File containing network elements, i.e. station type with associated coverage (if calculated and saved),
path and links
*.EWX: New XML-based version of network file. Available from version 10.4 of ICS telecom EV. This format
follows the SQL structure of the database exchange table “ICSTel2k2.mdb”.
*.PRM: File stores the set of parameters defined by the user for clutter, propagation model, etc.
*.VEC: Vector file storing vector objects created by the user on map
*.MAP: Map server file containing up to 60 links to image files in various scales
*.P11 : 11-colour palette file created by the user and used for results display (coverage)
*.BLG: Cartographic data file containing the building layer raster; 8 bit raster file coded on 1 Byte
*.DAM: Data file containing one record of a Microwave link technical database
*.MB0: File containing the catalogue of one Microwave link technical database
*.DAT: Data file containing one record of a Station technical database
*.SB0: File containing the catalogue of one Station technical database
*.SUB: Former format of files containing one record of the Subscribers technical database
*.SUR: File containing one Subscriber technical database (all records)
*.TRX: File containing technical parameters of one station; created by the user by clicking ‘Save’ button
found in the ‘Tx/Rx parameters’ dialogue box of one station
*.MWX: File containing technical parameters of one microwave link; created by the user by clicking ‘Save’
button found in the ‘Microwave link parameters’ dialogue box
Icstel2K2.mdb: Model of Microsoft Access™ database containing all formatted fields required for
import/export of stations, subscribers, and microwave links (current version to be used)
Allbases.inf: File storing information on the location of technical databases.
Each of the following files contains one record of “other” type database (see ‘Database -> Other
databases’ menu):
*.ANT: Antenna
*.MWE: Base station equipment
*.COX: Connector
*.FDR: Feeders and cables
*.USR : User
*.SIT : Site
*.MUX : Multiplexer
*.FRQ: Frequencies list
*.GRP: Frequencies group
*.FMZ: Frequencies band
*.SBF: Frequency plan.
Temporary Files:
Temporary files are created during the use of ICS telecom EV. By default, the system stores these files in the
ICS telecom EV installation folder, where subfolder ‘TMP’ is automatically created during the install process,
or in the temporary folder designated using ‘Tools Temporary folder’ menu accessible just after the
launching of ICS telecom EV and before the loading of a project. After the closing of the application, the
temporary files are automatically deleted by the system.
- <F1> key in any dialog box, it opens contextual help PDF document.
- <F1> key or Menu ? Help, it opens this Getting Started PDF document.
Technical documents and quick reference guides are available as an online resource, depending on the specialized
subject
ATDI_soft_license_management http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/ATDI_soft_license_management.pdf
Bing_FR http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/Bing_FR.pdf
Bing_GB http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/Bing_GB.pdf
Cut map and Change area http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/Cut map and Change area.pdf
Field_Strength_received_along_a_tr http://www.atdi-
ain_line maps.com/DOC/Field_Strength_received_along_a_train_line.pdf
ICSM-Tutorial http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/ICSM-Tutorial.pdf
INDOOR_NETWORK_DESIGN http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/INDOOR_NETWORK_DESIGN.pdf
MW assignment – C to I http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/MW%20assignment%20–
%20C%20to%20I.pdf
OTM http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/OTM.pdf
Raster operation with ATDI tools http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/Raster operation with ATDI tools.pdf
RSRP_Calculator http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/RSRP_Calculator.pdf
TUT-GSM-R_Network_eng http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/TUT-GSM-R_Network_eng.pdf
User defined icon for stations http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/User defined icon for stations.pdf
Wind Farm modelling with ATDI http://www.atdi-maps.com/DOC/Wind Farm modelling with ATDI.pdf
AISG141 to AISG153
ESKOM ESKOM (Lambert)
central meridian every 2 deg)
GDA (GDA 94 Lambert)
Euro-Lambert System (EUR) 2EUR (ellipsoid ED50)
AMG48 to AMG58 (UTM)
Finland National System FING
Austria AGKM28 (M28)
Zone 3
AGKM31 (M31)
AGKM34 (M34) French Gradient Systems 1GRA ÷ 129GRA
(Gauss-Krueger)
ATLCC GAUSS East Systems (GSEn) GSE1 ÷ GSE179
(Lambert Conformal Conic)
GAUSS West Systems GSW1 ÷ GSW179
Belgian Lambert BLAMB (GSWn)
Malaysian System (East) EMRSO(Malaysia East) UTM North Systems 2FR1 ÷ 2FR61 or
1UTN1 ÷ 174UTN61
Malaysian System (West) WMRSO(Malaysia West)
UTM South Systems 3FR1 ÷ 3FR61 or 1UTS1 ÷ 174UTS
Morocco MLAM(Lambert Morocco)
Web (WWW) Mercator WMAS
Nelle Caledonia IGN72 Projection
RGNC
West Indies WIND
Netherlands RDNAP
Yemen YNGN96
New Zealand NZMG
Poland CK42
PNS92
PUGW5 ÷ PUGW8
29 Cape 59 Indian
Technical Assistance
60 Iran 89 Old Hawaiian Maui
75 Merchich 103 S 42