Comparison between simulation and analytical methods of UMTS air interface capacity dimensioning

This paper provides a comparison between the UMTS downlink circuit switched capacity results obtained using a comprehensive system level simulator with those obtained using an advanced analytical method. For the scenarios considered, the agreement varies in the range of 0-15%. Considering the approximation used in the analytical model in regard to the network layout (single cell placed on an imaginary uniform grid), the run-time is about 30 times faster than the simulator described here. With this level of accuracy and such speed, quick investigation of capacity sensitivity to various parameters or first pass dimensioning is facilitated using the analytical model. However, simulation tools such as the one described in this paper are the only means of planning, optimising and testing real systems and their features.