The LSTI initiative for the promotion of LTE systems worldwide
was founded two years ago
 
 
MUNICH - The LTE SAE Trial Initiative (LSTI), a unique global collaboration between vendors and operators, commemorates its second anniversary. The initiative has a clear objective: the promotion of 3GPP Long Term Evolution in order to ensure the global introduction of such systems as quickly as possible. For more information visit www.lstiforum.com. 

LTE/SAE is gaining ground. The alliance, which was formed in 2007, currently has 39 members and is open to all companies with the same motivation: the ongoing development of broadband mobile networks based on UMTS Long Term Evolution (LTE). Furthermore, the industrialization of 3GPP LTE /SAE (System Architecture Evolution) technologies is to be driven forward and the capabilities and advantages of LTE/SAE highlighted. The initiative does not only promote the development of LTE/SAE, it also provides the ideal platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences between members. A complete list of all members can be found at: http://www.lstiforum.org/about/lsti_membership.html)

The major benefit of the alliance is practical experience in addition to theoretical work. The activities include for example the development of prototypes and pre-commercial devices or network elements and the performance of practical testing. These results again are reported to the LSTI forum for consolidation. The first testing phase, the Proof of Concept (PoC) work group, has already consolidated all measured results providing now a realistic view of the potential performance capabilities of LTE radio access technology. The PoC tests have been completed for FDD and TDD. This work stream gave proof that the 3GPP LTE specification can be implemented and the performance targets can be reached in commercial products.
 
These results form the basis of the current test phase, the Interoperability Development Tests (IODT) and the Interoperability Tests (IOT). These tests are handled together. IODT will provide information on cross manufacturer tests relating to the key functions of the air interface. Devices based on the LTE/SAE standards from March 2009 are being used for these tests and the test reports will be based on a generally accepted range of procedures. Initial results are already available. The IOT phase will extend the set of functions and take into account other key interfaces, which connect the base stations to the core network. These tests should be completed by the middle of 2010.

The Friendly Customer Tests are the final stage in testing the technology before it is commercially rolled out. This is a beta test, which will be performed under conditions similar to those in the market. LSTI is currently developing a range of test methods and configurations that will characterize main carrier expectations as well as key user experiences. A majority of LSTI operators have now completed their agreement with their LSTI trial vendor(s). This means that the LTE-SAE Trial strategy is agreed on bi-lateral basis, and compatible with the recommendations of the LSTI. Notably, LSTI operators will use the LSTI commonly agreed set of test domains which are based upon NGMN requirements, and will report on these test domains.