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The Challenge of 5G Standalone Network Deployment
5G Standalone (SA) networks introduce new complexities that require a much higher density of base stations than previous generations. Unlike Non-Standalone (NSA) networks that rely on existing 4G infrastructure, 5G SA operates independently and takes full advantage of features like ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and network slicing. However, these benefits come with significant RF challenges:
- Millimeter-wave (mmWave) limitations: High-frequency 5G signals have shorter propagation distances and are easily blocked by buildings, trees, and other obstacles.
- Dense urban deployment: Urban environments require precise base station placement to ensure line-of-sight connectivity and avoid dead zones.
- Complex interference management: Multiple small cells and macro cells must be positioned optimally to reduce interference and ensure efficient spectrum utilization.
To address these challenges, telecom operators need highly detailed 3D city models that go beyond traditional 2D maps.
LuxCarta’s Solution: High-Precision 3D City Models for RF Planning
LuxCarta provides highly accurate LOD1 and LOD2 3D city models generated from high-resolution satellite imagery and AI-powered processing. These models enable precise obstacle analysis for 5G network planning by incorporating:
- LOD1 & LOD2 Buildings: Detailed roof structures and building geometry that impact signal reflection, diffraction, and penetration.
- Digital Terrain Models (DTMs): Essential for accurate propagation modeling, especially in hilly or sloped areas where elevation impacts coverage.
- 3D Vegetation Data: High-density foliage can attenuate signals by up to 12.8% at 3.6 GHz, requiring precise mapping of trees and seasonal variations.
- Road Networks & Orthoimagery: Providing key insights into urban layouts, street materials, and obstruction patterns.
These datasets are formatted in OGC-standard 3D Tiles, ensuring seamless integration with RF planning tools such as Atoll, Planet, and custom telecom modeling platforms.
Key Applications for 5G Standalone Network Planning
Signal Propagation Analysis
LuxCarta’s precise 3D models enable accurate RF propagation simulations, helping engineers predict signal loss, reflection, and diffraction with high accuracy.
Optimized Base Station Placement
Using real-world 3D data, network planners can:
- Ensure line-of-sight connectivity for mmWave deployments.
- Reduce signal blockage and multi-path fading effects.
- Strategically place small cells to minimize deployment costs.
Interference & Capacity Planning
Accurate 3D modeling allows operators to:
- Identify high-density areas where interference may degrade performance.
- Optimize MIMO and beamforming strategies by considering real-world obstacles.
Stakeholder Visualizations & Decision Support
LuxCarta’s models can be rendered in visualization tools, providing:
- Clear insights for engineers and planners working on 5G SA rollouts.
- Executive-level visualisations that assist in investment and deployment decisions.
The Business Case for 3D Mapping in 5G SA Deployments
Improved Network Performance
Operators using LuxCarta’s models can fine-tune base station placement, ensuring higher throughput and reduced dead zones.
Reduced Deployment Costs
Optimizing small cell and macro cell placement lowers overall CAPEX and OPEX by minimizing unnecessary infrastructure investments.
Future-Proof Network Planning
As telecoms move toward 6G and beyond, detailed 3D models will continue to play a critical role in urban connectivity solutions.
For telecom professionals and RF engineers, leveraging LuxCarta’s geospatial intelligence means staying ahead in the competitive landscape of next-generation network deployment.
Contact LuxCarta today to learn more about how City Planner 3D can enhance your 5G network planning process.
