that is a global leader in communications systems and products, has expanded its family of automated drive test solution products with the introduction of Invex3G^® Autonomous Compact, a smaller, more economical unit that is ideal for measuring wireless network quality using taxis, buses and other fleet vehicles anywhere in the world.

The Invex3G Autonomous Compact—slightly thicker than a laptop computer—can benefit operators worldwide with its smaller size, as an alternative to Andrew’s Invex3G Autonomous, introduced in 2007. The Autonomous Compact is ideal for operators desiring a smaller footprint for housing the remote drive test equipment in third-party vehicles such as taxis, buses and delivery trucks. Autonomous Compact’s ability to handle three mobile handsets provides a cost-effective solution that enables operators to optimize their own network while benchmarking up to two competitors’ wireless coverage.

“Andrew’s first iteration of Invex3G Autonomous has logged more than 2.9 million miles and 72,500 hours of drive time with US customers in its first year,” said Todd Johnson, director, Test and Measurement Products, Andrew. “However, its ability to support up to eight test devices, and the necessary space it occupied, is not effective for many operators. Invex3G Autonomous Compact provides an alternative choice as a solution to those requirements.”

Invex3G Autonomous and Invex3G Autonomous Compact enable wireless operators and independent testing companies to capture critical network performance data, reduce traditional drive testing and benchmarking costs, and free up the valuable time of their skilled technicians and engineers. Intended for installation in third party fleet vehicles such as taxis, buses, trains, and delivery trucks, Invex3G Autonomous does not require skilled radio planners or technicians to attend to the equipment during testing or idle times. The equipment runs unaided and operates remotely, enabling drive test data and results to be sent across a remote radio link between the test equipment and a central operations center. Invex3G Autonomous puts a vast fleet of third party vehicles to work on behalf of wireless operators, and, by extension, all users.

“In developed wireless marketplaces, operators compete based on quality of service, signal coverage and call quality,” said Johnson. “Invex3G Autonomous and the new Invex3G Autonomous Compact free technicians from accompanying the equipment while capturing all the important data that enables operators to upgrade the service they provide to customers.”

Andrew’s Invex3G Autonomous systems are fully self-contained and fully remotely controlled, with intelligent power management systems to ensure they remain alert and accessible during any power condition, including long periods of vehicle inactivity. They support all major mobile wireless technologies, can scan multiple radio frequency carriers for multi-technology testing, and include a global positioning system receiver to provide constant location information. The Invex3G Autonomous product family is an extension of Andrew’s Invex3G, an industry standard data collection platform used by leading operators and independent testing companies.

Andrew will display Invex3G Autonomous Compact in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the CTIA WIRELESS 2008 show April 1–3.

Information Source:   Business Wire