Infovista has unveiled the latest version of its AI-driven RF planning tool, Infovista Planet, which now supports 5G RedCap network planning. This advancement allows operators’ network planning teams to incorporate 3GPP-compliant 5G RedCap devices in their analyses and simulations of 5G Standalone networks. Currently, 17 out of 126 mobile operators investing in 5G Standalone are exploring 5G RedCap for emerging applications, according to the GSA.
The updated Infovista Planet also enhances capabilities for planning 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) coverage and capacity. It can now conduct Monte Carlo simulations for both standalone FWA networks and mixed traffic scenarios, including FWA customer premises equipment (CPEs), mobile user equipment (UEs), and RedCap devices. Utilizing Infovista’s expertise from its Ellipse microwave backhaul modeling tool, Planet now offers comprehensive site-to-FWA subscriber analysis for various configurations.
Additionally, the new Planet AIM release introduces improved RF propagation modeling, including rooftop propagation and the ability to model coverage across rooftops in a single layer. These features help network engineers determine line-of-sight possibilities and optimal FWA CPE rooftop mounting options, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of FWA service deployment.
Building on its Open RAN planning capabilities, Infovista Planet now includes enhanced network views, allowing for the display of O-RAN nodes and their logical relationships. It also offers new best server layer options to visualize 5G architectures, enabling planners to swiftly and accurately identify service areas.
Regis Lerbour, VP Product, RAN Engineering and Testing at Infovista, emphasized the importance of precise radio access network design in mobile network success. He noted that the complexity of planning 5G networks, especially with new technologies like 5G RedCap and FWA, requires the advanced capabilities of an AI-powered RF planning solution. The release of Planet 7.10 marks a significant step forward as the industry transitions from investment to the deployment of new 5G standalone networks.
