RSRQ (reference signal received quality)
RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality) is a metric used in Long-Term Evolution (LTE) and 5G wireless networks to measure the quality of the reference signals received by the user equipment (UE) from the base station (eNodeB in LTE or gNB in 5G). It provides valuable information about the signal strength and interference level in the downlink.
RSRQ is calculated by measuring the power ratio between the reference signal and the total received power, including both the desired signal and the interference. It is expressed in decibels (dB) and provides an indication of the signal quality relative to the interference level.
The formula to calculate RSRQ is as follows:
RSRQ = N × (RSRP / RSSI)
Where:
- RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) represents the power of the reference signals received from the serving cell. It indicates the signal strength from the base station to the UE.
- RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) is the total received power, including the desired signal and all other sources of interference.
- N is a scaling factor used to convert the ratio to decibels.
RSRQ takes into account the signal strength and the interference level simultaneously, providing a more comprehensive measure of network conditions compared to RSRP alone. It helps in assessing the overall quality of the received signal and the potential impact of interference.
A higher RSRQ value indicates a stronger reference signal relative to the interference, implying better signal quality. Conversely, a lower RSRQ value suggests a weaker reference signal compared to the interference, indicating poorer signal quality.
Operators and network engineers utilize RSRQ measurements to evaluate the network performance, troubleshoot issues, and make informed decisions regarding network optimization. It aids in determining the signal coverage, identifying areas with high interference, and optimizing cell placement and antenna configuration to improve network efficiency and user experience.
Moreover, RSRQ values are used in handover decisions when a UE moves between different cells or base stations. The handover process aims to ensure seamless connectivity by transferring the UE's communication from one base station to another. RSRQ helps in assessing the quality of neighboring cells and deciding whether to initiate a handover based on predefined thresholds.
In summary, RSRQ is a crucial metric in LTE and 5G networks that provides valuable information about the reference signal quality and the interference level. By considering both factors, RSRQ offers a more comprehensive view of the network conditions and assists in network optimization and handover decisions.