Things Coverage methodology includes an approach to evaluating the quality of an IoT network, and the system for planning mobile networks that must serve things as well as people.
Huawei said the new system provides a set of quantitative standards which can serve as reference for the entire IoT ecosystem, from telecom operators and device makers to users. Coordination across the ecosystem will help telecom operators roll out their networks fast maximize the value of the IoT.
Since building IoT-ready networks is a challenge for operators because of the number of different IoT applications and services, operators are looking for a new network planning methodology to meet the demands of IoT connections, maximize the value of their IoT services, and provide a superior IoT experience.
Huawei said its Things Coverage methodology includes a 5-dimensional standard for the connection experience of IoT devices. Each use case is analyzed in terms of Availability, Bandwidth, Coverage, Delay sensitivity, and Energy efficiency.
The combination of scores across the five dimensions gives a connection quality baseline for each type of service: smart metering, connected cars, industrial controls, etc.
Huawei proposes a Things Coverage network planning methodology, the first in the industry to focus on the need to connect things as well as people. Things Coverage includes a series of radio models, with different combinations of wireless connection features, for different types of application scenario. These models are mapped onto network maps showing where the various services are needed. The maps will guide later service provisioning based on key dimensions such as grid-level coverage and battery life.
Using the Things Coverage methodology, operators can roll out targeted IoT services across their existing mobile broadband networks, while maintaining low cost of operations. After service provisioning, Things Coverage also gives standards for monitoring data traffic and energy consumption to ensure that service quality remains at the required level, and more services can be deployed as the IoT network grows.
Ryan Ding, president of Huawei Products & Solutions, introduced Things Coverage and its 5-dimensional evaluation system, and presented network planning a case study using data from a smart water meter application. Huawei expects to develop auxiliary tools to support operators as they apply Things Coverage during the construction of their networks.