ATOLL User - Manual-1-50

Atoll
RF Planning & Optimisation Software
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User Manual ~
v e r s i o n 2.8.0
AT280_UM_E0
Contact Information
Forsk (Head Office) 7 rue des Briquetiers www.forsk.com Web

31700 Blagnac L sales@forsk.com Sales and pricing information
France " helpdesk@forsk.com Technical support
« +33 (0) 562 74 72 10 General
+33 (0) 562 74 72 25 Technical support
¬ +33 (0) 562 74 72 11 Fax
Forsk (USA Office) 200 South Wacker Drive L sales_us@forsk.com Sales and pricing information
Suite 3100 " support_us@forsk.com Technical support
Chicago, IL 60606 « +1 312 674 4846 General
USA +1 888 GoAtoll (+1 888 462 8655) Technical support
¬ +1 312 674 4847 Fax
Forsk (China Office) Suite 302, 3/F, West Tower, www.forsk.com.cn Web
Jiadu Commercial Building, L enquiries@forsk.com.cn Information and enquiries
No.66 Jianzhong Road, « +86 20 8553 8938 Telephone
Tianhe Hi-Tech Industrial Zone, ¬ +86 20 8553 8285 Fax (Guangzhou)
Guangzhou, 510665, +86 10 6513 4559 Fax (Beijing)
People’s Republic of China
Atoll 2.8.0 User Manual Release AT280_UM_E0

© Copyright 1997 - 2009 by Forsk
The software described in this document is provided under a license agreement and may only be used or copied under
the terms and conditions of the license agreement. No part of this document may be copied or reproduced in any form
without prior authorisation from Forsk.
The product or brand names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective regis-
tering parties.
About the Atoll User Documentation

The Atoll user documentation is a guide and reference for users working with Atoll. Atoll is easy to use and offers a clear,
self-explanatory user interface. The user documentation helps the user make effective and efficient use of all the features
that Atoll offers. The user documentation aims to familiarise the user with the working environment of Atoll and enable
him to use all of Atoll’s features and functions.
The Atoll user documentation is technology-specific. For each Atoll radio technology, the Atoll user manual contains
instructions and information specific to that technology as well as chapters describing the Atoll working environment and
the tools available.
© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 3

Atoll User Manual
4 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1 The Working Environment .................................................................................................... 25

1.1 The Atoll Work Area .................................................................................................................... 25
1.1.1 Working with Document Windows .................................................................................................... 26
1.1.2 Docking or Floating an Atoll Window................................................................................................ 26
1.2 The Explorer Window ................................................................................................................. 27
1.2.1 Working with the Explorer Window Tabs.......................................................................................... 27
1.2.2 Navigating in the Explorer Window .................................................................................................. 28
1.2.3 Displaying or Hiding Objects on the Map Using the Explorer........................................................... 28
1.2.4 Working with Layers Using the Explorer .......................................................................................... 28
1.3 Working with Objects .................................................................................................................. 29
1.3.1 Using the Object Context Menu ....................................................................................................... 29
1.3.1.1 Renaming an Object ................................................................................................................... 29
1.3.1.2 Deleting an Object ...................................................................................................................... 29
1.3.1.3 Displaying the Properties of an Object ....................................................................................... 30
1.3.2 Modifying Sites and Transmitters Directly on the Map ..................................................................... 30
1.3.2.1 Selecting One of Several Transmitters or Microwave Links ....................................................... 30
1.3.2.2 Moving a Site Using the Mouse .................................................................................................. 31
1.3.2.3 Moving a Site to a Higher Location............................................................................................. 31
1.3.2.4 Changing the Azimuth of the Antenna Using the Mouse ............................................................ 32
1.3.2.5 Changing the Position of the Transmitter Relative to the Site .................................................... 32
1.3.3 Display Properties of Objects ........................................................................................................... 33
1.3.3.1 Defining the Display Properties of Objects ................................................................................. 33
1.3.3.2 Examples of Using the Display Properties of Objects ................................................................ 37
1.4 Working with Maps....................................................................................................................... 38
1.4.1 Changing the Map Scale .................................................................................................................. 38
1.4.1.1 Zooming In and Out .................................................................................................................... 38
1.4.1.2 Zooming In on a Specific Area.................................................................................................... 39
1.4.1.3 Choosing a Scale........................................................................................................................ 39
1.4.1.4 Changing Between Previous Zoom Levels................................................................................. 39
1.4.2 Moving the Map in the Document Window....................................................................................... 39
1.4.3 Using the Panoramic Window .......................................................................................................... 39
1.4.4 Centring the Map Window on an Object........................................................................................... 40
1.4.5 Measuring Distances on the Map ..................................................................................................... 40
1.4.6 Displaying Rulers Around the Map ................................................................................................... 40
1.4.7 Displaying the Map Legend .............................................................................................................. 41
1.4.8 Using Zones in the Map Window...................................................................................................... 41
1.4.8.1 Using a Filtering Zone................................................................................................................. 41
1.4.8.2 Using a Computation Zone ......................................................................................................... 42
1.4.8.3 Using a Focus Zone or Hot Spot Zones ..................................................................................... 43
1.4.8.4 Using Polygon Zone Editing Tools.............................................................................................. 44
1.4.8.5 Using a Printing Zone ................................................................................................................. 45
1.4.8.6 Using a Coverage Export Zone .................................................................................................. 46
1.4.9 Exporting Coverage Prediction Results............................................................................................ 46
1.4.9.1 Exporting a Coverage Prediction in Vector Format .................................................................... 47
1.4.9.2 Exporting a Coverage Prediction in Raster Format .................................................................... 47
1.4.10 Exporting a Map ............................................................................................................................... 48
1.4.11 Copying a Map to Another Application ............................................................................................. 48
1.4.12 Map Window Pointers ...................................................................................................................... 49
1.5 Working with Data Tables ........................................................................................................ 50
1.5.1 Opening a Data Table ...................................................................................................................... 50
1.5.2 Adding, Deleting, and Editing Data Table Fields .............................................................................. 50
1.5.2.1 Accessing an Object Type’s Table Fields................................................................................... 50
1.5.2.2 Adding a Field to an Object Type’s Data Table .......................................................................... 51
1.5.2.3 Deleting a Field from an Object Type’s Data Table .................................................................... 52
1.5.3 Editing the Contents of a Table ........................................................................................................ 52
1.5.4 Opening an Object’s Record Properties Dialogue from a Table ...................................................... 53
1.5.5 Defining the Table Format ................................................................................................................ 53
1.5.6 Copying and Pasting in Tables......................................................................................................... 56

Atoll User Manual
1.5.6.1 Copying and Pasting a Table Element ........................................................................................56

1.5.6.2 Pasting the Same Data into Several Cells ..................................................................................56
1.5.7 Exporting Tables to Text Files...........................................................................................................58
1.5.8 Importing Tables from Text Files.......................................................................................................59
1.5.9 Exporting Tables to XML Files ..........................................................................................................60
1.5.10 Importing Tables from XML Files ......................................................................................................60
1.6 Printing in Atoll ................................................................................................................................60
1.6.1 Printing Data Tables and Reports .....................................................................................................60
1.6.2 Printing a Map ...................................................................................................................................61
1.6.2.1 Printing Recommendations .........................................................................................................61
1.6.2.2 Defining the Printing Zone ...........................................................................................................61
1.6.2.3 Defining the Print Layout .............................................................................................................62
1.6.3 Previewing Your Printing...................................................................................................................64
1.6.4 Printing a Docking Window ...............................................................................................................64
1.6.5 Printing Antenna Patterns .................................................................................................................64
1.7 Grouping, Sorting, and Filtering Data..................................................................................64
1.7.1 Grouping Data Objects......................................................................................................................65
1.7.1.1 Grouping Data Objects by a Selected Property ..........................................................................65
1.7.1.2 Configuring the Group By Submenu ...........................................................................................65
1.7.1.3 Grouping Microwave Links by Site ..............................................................................................66
1.7.1.4 Advanced Grouping.....................................................................................................................66
1.7.1.5 Examples of Grouping .................................................................................................................67
1.7.2 Sorting Data ......................................................................................................................................68
1.7.2.1 Sorting Data in Tables.................................................................................................................68
1.7.2.2 Advanced Sorting ........................................................................................................................69
1.7.3 Filtering Data.....................................................................................................................................70
1.7.3.1 Filtering in Data Tables by Selection...........................................................................................70
1.7.3.2 Advanced Data Filtering ..............................................................................................................71
1.7.3.3 Restoring All Records..................................................................................................................72
1.7.3.4 Advanced Filtering: Examples .....................................................................................................72
1.7.4 User Configurations ..........................................................................................................................74
1.7.4.1 Exporting a User Configuration ...................................................................................................75
1.7.4.2 Importing a User Configuration ...................................................................................................75
1.7.5 Site and Transmitter Lists .................................................................................................................75
1.7.5.1 Creating a Site or Transmitter List...............................................................................................76
1.7.5.2 Adding a Site or Transmitter to a List from the Explorer Window................................................76
1.7.5.3 Adding a Site or Transmitter to a List from the Map Window ......................................................76
1.7.5.4 Adding Sites or Transmitters to a List Using a Zone ...................................................................77
1.7.5.5 Editing a Site or Transmitter List .................................................................................................77
1.7.5.6 Filtering on a Site or Transmitter List ..........................................................................................77
1.7.6 Folder Configurations........................................................................................................................78
1.7.6.1 Creating a Folder Configuration ..................................................................................................78
1.7.6.2 Applying a Saved Folder Configuration .......................................................................................78
1.7.6.3 Reapplying the Current Folder Configuration ..............................................................................78
1.7.6.4 Exporting a Folder Configuration.................................................................................................79
1.7.6.5 Importing a Folder Configuration.................................................................................................79
1.7.6.6 Deleting a Folder Configuration...................................................................................................79
1.7.7 Creating and Comparing Subfolders.................................................................................................79
1.7.8 Filtering Data Using a Filtering Zone.................................................................................................80
1.8 Tips and Tricks ...............................................................................................................................80
1.8.1 Undoing and Redoing .......................................................................................................................80
1.8.2 Refreshing Maps and Folders ...........................................................................................................81
1.8.3 Searching for Objects on the Map.....................................................................................................81
1.8.3.1 Searching for a Map Object by Its Name ....................................................................................81
1.8.3.2 Searching for a Map Object using Any Text Property .................................................................81
1.8.3.3 Searching for a Point on the Map ................................................................................................82
1.8.4 Using the Status Bar to Get Information ...........................................................................................82
1.8.5 Saving Information Displayed in the Event Viewer ...........................................................................82
1.8.6 Using Icons from the Toolbar ............................................................................................................82
1.8.7 Using Shortcuts in Atoll .....................................................................................................................84
2 Starting an Atoll Project ...........................................................................................................89

2.1 Before Starting a Microwave or Radio-Planning Project ...........................................89
2.2 Creating an Atoll Document .....................................................................................................89
2.2.1 Creating a New Atoll Document from a Template.............................................................................89
2.2.1.1 Templates Available ....................................................................................................................90

Table of Contents
2.2.1.2 Creating a New Atoll Document from a Template ...................................................................... 90

2.2.1.3 Defining a New Atoll Document .................................................................................................. 91
2.2.2 Working in a Multi-User Environment ............................................................................................... 93
2.2.2.1 The Atoll Multi-User Environment ............................................................................................... 94
2.2.2.2 Creating a New Atoll Document from a Database ...................................................................... 95
2.2.2.3 Working With a Document on a Database.................................................................................. 96
2.2.2.4 Refreshing an Atoll Document from the Database ..................................................................... 97
2.2.2.5 Archiving the Modifications of an Atoll Document in the Database ............................................ 98
2.3 Making a Backup of Your Document ................................................................................ 101
2.3.1 Configuring Automatic Backup ....................................................................................................... 101
2.3.2 Recovering a Backup ..................................................................................................................... 102
2.4 Making and Sharing Portable Atoll Projects .................................................................. 102
3 Managing Geographic Data .............................................................................................. 105

3.1 Geographic Data Types .......................................................................................................... 105
3.2 Supported Geographic Data Formats .............................................................................. 106
3.3 Importing Geo Data Files ........................................................................................................ 107
3.3.1 Importing a Raster-format Geo Data File ....................................................................................... 107
3.3.2 Importing a Vector-format Geo Data File ....................................................................................... 108
3.3.3 Importing MSI Planet® Geo Data................................................................................................... 110
3.3.3.1 Importing One MSI Planet® Geo Data Type ............................................................................ 110
3.3.3.2 Importing a MSI Planet® Geo Database .................................................................................. 110
3.3.4 Importing a WMS Raster-format Geo Data File ............................................................................. 111
3.3.5 Grouping Geo Data Files in Folders............................................................................................... 112
3.3.6 Embedding Geographic Data ......................................................................................................... 113
3.3.7 Repairing a Broken Link to a Geo Data File................................................................................... 113
3.4 Digital Terrain Models .............................................................................................................. 114
3.5 Clutter Classes............................................................................................................................. 114
3.5.1 Assigning Names to Clutter Classes .............................................................................................. 114
3.5.2 Defining Clutter Class Properties ................................................................................................... 115
3.5.3 Adding a Clutter Class.................................................................................................................... 116
3.5.4 Refreshing the List of Clutter Classes ............................................................................................ 116
3.5.5 Displaying Total Surface Area per Clutter Class ............................................................................ 117
3.6 Clutter Heights ............................................................................................................................. 117
3.7 Contours, Lines, and Points .................................................................................................. 117
3.7.1 Managing the Display of a Vector Layer ........................................................................................ 117
3.7.2 Managing the Properties of the Vector Layer................................................................................. 118
3.7.3 Moving a Vector Layer to the Data Tab.......................................................................................... 118
3.8 Scanned Images ......................................................................................................................... 119
3.8.1 Importing Several Scanned Images ............................................................................................... 119
3.8.2 Defining the Display Properties of Scanned Images ...................................................................... 119
3.9 Population Maps ......................................................................................................................... 120
3.9.1 Managing the Display of Population Data ...................................................................................... 120
3.9.2 Displaying Population Statistics ..................................................................................................... 120
3.10 Geoclimatic Maps ....................................................................................................................... 121
3.10.1 Managing Geoclimatic Map Properties .......................................................................................... 121
3.10.2 Displaying Geoclimatic Statistics.................................................................................................... 121
3.11 Custom Geo Data Maps.......................................................................................................... 121
3.11.1 Creating a Custom Geo Data Map ................................................................................................. 122
3.11.2 Adding a File to a Custom Geo Data Map...................................................................................... 123
3.11.3 Managing the Properties of a Custom Geo Data Map ................................................................... 123
3.11.4 Displaying Statistics on Custom Geo Data..................................................................................... 124
3.11.5 Integrable Versus Non Integrable Data .......................................................................................... 124
3.12 Setting the Priority of Geo Data........................................................................................... 124
3.12.1 Setting the Display Priority of Geo Data ......................................................................................... 124
3.12.2 Setting the Priority of Geo Data in Calculations ............................................................................. 125
3.12.2.1 Example 1: Two DTM Maps Representing Different Areas ...................................................... 126
3.12.2.2 Example 2: Clutter Classes and DTM Maps Representing the Same Area ............................. 126
3.12.2.3 Example 3: Two Clutter Class Maps Representing a Common Area ....................................... 126
3.13 Displaying Information About Geo Data .......................................................................... 127
3.14 Geographic Data Sets .............................................................................................................. 127
3.14.1 Exporting a Geo Data Set .............................................................................................................. 127
3.14.2 Importing a Geo Data Set............................................................................................................... 128

Atoll User Manual
3.15 Editing Geographic Data .........................................................................................................128

3.15.1 Editing Clutter Class Maps..............................................................................................................129
3.15.1.1 Creating a Clutter Polygon ........................................................................................................129
3.15.1.2 Editing Clutter Polygons ............................................................................................................129
3.15.1.3 Displaying the Coordinates of Clutter Polygons ........................................................................130
3.15.1.4 Deleting Clutter Polygons..........................................................................................................130
3.15.2 Editing Contours, Lines, and Points ................................................................................................130
3.15.2.1 Creating a Vector Layer for Contours, Lines, and Points ..........................................................130
3.15.2.2 Creating Contours, Lines, and Points........................................................................................130
3.15.2.3 Editing Contours, Lines, and Points ..........................................................................................131
3.15.3 Editing Population, Geoclimatic or Custom Data Maps ..................................................................133
3.15.3.1 Creating a Vector Layer and Vector Objects.............................................................................133
3.15.3.2 Editing Contours on the Vector Layer .......................................................................................134
3.16 Saving Geographic Data .........................................................................................................135
3.16.1 Saving Modifications to an External File .........................................................................................135
3.16.1.1 Exporting an Edited Clutter Class Map in a Raster-Format File................................................136
3.16.1.2 Exporting an Edited Vector Layer in Vector-Format File ...........................................................136
3.16.2 Updating the Source File.................................................................................................................137
3.16.3 Combining Several Files into One File............................................................................................137
3.16.4 Exporting an Embedded File...........................................................................................................137
3.16.5 Creating a New File from a Larger File ...........................................................................................138
4 Antennas and Equipment.....................................................................................................143

4.1 Working With Antennas............................................................................................................143
4.1.1 Creating an Antenna .......................................................................................................................143
4.1.2 Importing Planet-Format Antennas .................................................................................................144
4.1.3 Importing 3-D Antenna Patterns......................................................................................................145
4.1.4 Smoothing an Antenna Pattern .......................................................................................................146
4.1.5 Printing an Antenna Pattern ............................................................................................................147
4.2 Working With Equipment .........................................................................................................147
4.2.1 Defining TMA Equipment ................................................................................................................147
4.2.2 Defining Feeder Cables ..................................................................................................................147
4.2.3 Defining BTS Equipment.................................................................................................................148
4.2.4 Updating the Values for Total Losses and the BTS Noise Figure for Transmitters.........................148
4.3 Defining the List of Manufacturers ......................................................................................149
4.4 Defining Antennas.......................................................................................................................149
4.4.1 Creating an Antenna .......................................................................................................................149
4.4.2 Importing Microwave Antennas.......................................................................................................151
4.4.3 Editing Microwave Antenna Patterns ..............................................................................................151
4.4.4 Printing Microwave Antenna Patterns .............................................................................................152
4.5 Microwave Equipment...............................................................................................................152
4.5.1 Modelling the IDU and ODU in Atoll................................................................................................154
4.5.2 Importing Microwave Equipment in Pathloss Format......................................................................157
4.5.3 Advanced Configuration..................................................................................................................158
4.5.3.1 Digital Hierarchies .....................................................................................................................158
4.5.3.2 Interference Reduction Factor ...................................................................................................159
4.5.3.3 Theoretical Graphs....................................................................................................................162
4.6 Microwave Waveguides and Cables .................................................................................163
4.7 Microwave Antenna/Equipment/Waveguide Compatibility .....................................164
4.7.1 Defining Compatibility Manually ......................................................................................................164
4.7.1.1 Using the Microwave Antenna/Waveguide Compatibility Table ................................................164
4.7.1.2 Using the Microwave Antenna/Equipment Compatibility Table .................................................165
4.7.2 Using Assistants to Define Compatibility.........................................................................................165
4.7.2.1 Using the Assistant to Define Antenna/Waveguide Compatibility .............................................165
4.7.2.2 Using the Assistant to Define Antenna/Equipment Compatibility ..............................................166
5 Managing Calculations in Atoll ........................................................................................170

5.1 Working with Propagation Models ......................................................................................170
5.1.1 Propagation Model Characteristics: Overview ................................................................................170
5.1.2 The Standard Propagation Model ...................................................................................................171
5.1.2.1 Recommendations for Working with the Standard Propagation Model .....................................172
5.1.2.2 Calculating Diffraction With the SPM ........................................................................................172
5.1.2.3 Sample Values for SPM Formulas ............................................................................................173
5.1.2.4 Calculating f(clutter) with the Standard Propagation Model ......................................................173

Table of Contents
5.1.2.5 Modelling Fixed Receivers........................................................................................................ 174

5.1.2.6 Defining the Parameters of the Standard Propagation Model .................................................. 174
5.1.3 The Okumura-Hata Propagation Model ......................................................................................... 177
5.1.3.1 Defining General Settings (Okumura-Hata).............................................................................. 177
5.1.3.2 Selecting an Environment Formula (Okumura-Hata)................................................................ 177
5.1.3.3 Creating or Modifying Environment Formulas (Okumura-Hata) ............................................... 178
5.1.4 The Cost-Hata Propagation Model ................................................................................................. 178
5.1.4.1 Defining General Settings (Cost-Hata) ..................................................................................... 178
5.1.4.2 Selecting an Environment Formula (Cost-Hata) ....................................................................... 179
5.1.4.3 Creating or Modifying Environment Formulas (Cost-Hata)....................................................... 179
5.1.5 The ITU 529-3 Propagation Model ................................................................................................. 179
5.1.5.1 Defining General Settings (ITU 529-3) ..................................................................................... 180
5.1.5.2 Selecting an Environment Formula (ITU 529-3) ....................................................................... 180
5.1.5.3 Creating or Modifying Environment Formulas (ITU 529-3) ....................................................... 180
5.1.7 The Erceg-Greenstein Propagation Model ..................................................................................... 181
5.1.7.1 Defining General Settings (Erceg-Greenstein (SUI))................................................................ 181
5.1.7.2 Selecting an Environment Formula (Erceg-Greenstein (SUI)).................................................. 182
5.1.7.3 Creating or Modifying Environment Formulas (Erceg-Greenstein (SUI)) ................................. 182
5.1.9 The WLL Propagation Model.......................................................................................................... 182
5.1.10 The Longley-Rice Propagation Model ............................................................................................ 183
5.1.11 The ITU 1546 Propagation Model .................................................................................................. 183
5.1.12 The Sakagami Extended Propagation Model ................................................................................. 184
5.1.13 Managing Propagation Models....................................................................................................... 184
5.2 Defining Calculation Parameters ........................................................................................ 185
5.2.1 Defining Calculation Parameters for One Transmitter.................................................................... 185
5.2.2 Defining the Same Calculation Parameters for a Group of Transmitters ....................................... 186
5.2.3 Defining the Same Calculation Parameters for All Transmitters .................................................... 186
5.2.4 Defining a Default Propagation Model............................................................................................ 187
5.2.5 Defining a Default Resolution ......................................................................................................... 187
5.3 Managing Path Loss Matrices .............................................................................................. 187
5.3.1 Calculating Path Loss Matrices ...................................................................................................... 187
5.3.2 Stopping Path Loss Matrix Calculation........................................................................................... 188
5.3.3 Setting the Storage Location of Path Loss Matrices ...................................................................... 188
5.3.4 Using Centralised Path Loss Matrices ........................................................................................... 188
5.3.5 Checking the Validity of Path Loss Matrices .................................................................................. 189
5.3.6 Tuning Path Loss Matrices Using Measurement Data ................................................................... 190
5.3.6.1 Defining the Area to be Tuned.................................................................................................. 190
5.3.6.2 Tuning Path Loss Matrices Using CW Measurements ............................................................. 191
5.3.6.3 Tuning Path Loss Matrices Using Test Mobile Data................................................................. 192
5.3.6.4 Managing the Tuning Path Loss Matrices Catalogue ............................................................... 193
5.3.7 Exporting Path Loss Matrices......................................................................................................... 194
5.4 Predictions Available in Atoll ................................................................................................. 195
5.4.1 Making Point Predictions ................................................................................................................ 195
5.4.1.1 Starting a Point Analysis........................................................................................................... 195
5.4.1.2 The Tabs of the Point Analysis Tool Window ........................................................................... 196
5.4.1.3 Moving the Receiver on the Map .............................................................................................. 197
5.4.1.4 Taking Indoor Losses into Account........................................................................................... 197
5.4.1.5 Taking Shadowing into Account in Point Analyses................................................................... 197
5.4.2 Making Coverage Predictions ........................................................................................................ 198
5.4.2.1 Creating Coverage Predictions................................................................................................. 198
5.4.2.2 Defining the Storage Location of Coverage Prediction Results................................................ 200
5.4.2.3 Calculating Coverage Predictions............................................................................................. 200
5.4.2.4 Saving Defined Coverage Predictions ...................................................................................... 202
5.4.2.5 Calculating Indoor Coverage .................................................................................................... 203
5.4.2.6 Taking Shadowing into Account ............................................................................................... 203
5.5 Using Propagation Models in Microwave Projects ..................................................... 203
5.5.1 Working with the Microwave Propagation Model ........................................................................... 203
5.5.2 Working with the Microwave ITU-R P.452 Model ........................................................................... 205
5.6 Defining Microwave Link Classes and Performance Objectives ......................... 207
5.6.1 Microwave Link Classes ................................................................................................................. 207
5.6.2 Defining Performance Objectives ................................................................................................... 207
5.6.2.1 Defining Quality Objectives....................................................................................................... 208
5.6.2.2 Defining Availability Objectives................................................................................................. 208

Atoll User Manual
5.7 Defining Calculation Parameters .........................................................................................209

5.7.1 Global Parameters ..........................................................................................................................209
5.7.2 Link Parameters ..............................................................................................................................211
5.7.2.1 Defining Calculation Parameters for a Single Microwave Link ..................................................211
5.7.2.2 Defining Calculation Parameters for All Microwave Links .........................................................215
5.7.2.3 Defining Calculation Parameters for a Group of Microwave Links ............................................217
6 Co-planning Features..............................................................................................................225
6.1 Starting a Co-planning Project ..............................................................................................225
6.1.1 Switching to Co-planning Mode ......................................................................................................225
6.1.2 Displaying Both Networks in the Same Atoll Document..................................................................226
6.2 GSM-UMTS Co-planning Process ......................................................................................226
6.2.1 Creating a UMTS Sector From a GSM Sector ................................................................................226
6.2.1.1 Synchronising Shared Common Physical Parameters..............................................................227
6.2.2 Updating GSM And UMTS Coverage Predictions...........................................................................228
6.2.3 Comparing GSM-UMTS Coverage Predictions...............................................................................228
6.2.4 Performing Inter-Technology Neighbour Allocation ........................................................................230
6.2.4.1 Setting Inter-Technology Exceptional Pairs ..............................................................................230
6.2.4.2 Displaying Inter-Technology Exceptional Pairs on the Map ......................................................231
6.2.4.3 Allocating Inter-Technology Neighbours Manually ....................................................................232
6.2.4.4 Allocating Inter-Technology Neighbours Automatically .............................................................234
6.2.4.5 Displaying Inter-Technology Neighbours on the Map ...............................................................235
6.2.5 Modelling Inter-Network Interferences ............................................................................................236
6.2.5.1 Interferences from external transmitters on the mobiles ...........................................................237
6.2.5.2 Interferences from external transmitters/mobiles on the transmitters .......................................238
6.2.5.3 Interferences from external mobiles on the mobiles..................................................................238
6.2.5.4 Effects of inter-technology interferences on predictions............................................................239
6.3 Tips and Tricks .............................................................................................................................240
6.3.1 Minimising Memory Consumption ...................................................................................................241
7 GSM/GPRS/EDGE Networks ...........................................................................................245

7.1 Designing a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Network .......................................................................245
7.2 Planning and Optimising GSM/GPRS/EDGE Base Stations .................................246
7.2.1 Creating a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Base Station...................................................................................246
7.2.1.1 Definition of a Base Station .......................................................................................................247
7.2.1.2 Creating or Modifying a Base Station Element..........................................................................254
7.2.1.3 Placing a New Station Using a Station Template ......................................................................256
7.2.1.4 Managing Station Templates.....................................................................................................258
7.2.1.5 Duplicating an Existing Base Station.........................................................................................261
7.2.2 Creating a Group of Base Stations .................................................................................................261
7.2.3 Modifying Sites and Transmitters Directly on the Map....................................................................262
7.2.4 Display Tips for Base Stations ........................................................................................................262
7.2.5 Modelling Packet-switched Transmitters.........................................................................................263
7.2.6 Creating a Repeater........................................................................................................................263
7.2.6.1 Creating and Modifying Repeater Equipment ...........................................................................263
7.2.6.2 Placing a Repeater on the Map Using the Mouse .....................................................................264
7.2.6.3 Creating Several Repeaters ......................................................................................................264
7.2.6.4 Defining the Properties of a Repeater .......................................................................................264
7.2.6.5 Tips for Updating Repeater Parameters....................................................................................265
7.2.7 Creating a Remote Antenna............................................................................................................266
7.2.7.1 Placing a Remote Antenna on the Map Using the Mouse.........................................................266
7.2.7.2 Creating Several Remote Antennas..........................................................................................266
7.2.7.3 Defining the Properties of a Remote Antenna ...........................................................................266
7.2.7.4 Tips for Updating Remote Antenna Parameters .......................................................................267
7.2.8 Setting the Working Area of an Atoll Document..............................................................................267
7.2.9 Studying a Single Base Station.......................................................................................................268
7.2.9.1 Making a Point Analysis to Study the Profile .............................................................................268
7.2.9.2 Studying Signal Level Coverage ...............................................................................................269
7.2.10 Studying Base Stations ...................................................................................................................271
7.2.10.1 Path Loss Matrices....................................................................................................................272
7.2.10.2 Assigning a Propagation Model.................................................................................................274
7.2.10.3 The Calculation Process ...........................................................................................................276
7.2.10.4 Creating a Computation Zone ...................................................................................................276
7.2.10.5 Setting Transmitters as Active...................................................................................................277
7.2.10.6 Signal Level Coverage Predictions ...........................................................................................278

Table of Contents
7.2.10.7 Analysing a Coverage Prediction.............................................................................................. 286

7.2.10.8 Printing and Exporting Coverage Prediction Results................................................................ 294
7.2.11 Planning Neighbours ...................................................................................................................... 294
7.2.11.1 Importing Neighbours ............................................................................................................... 295
7.2.11.2 Defining Exceptional Pairs........................................................................................................ 295
7.2.11.3 Allocating Neighbours Automatically ........................................................................................ 295
7.2.11.4 Checking Automatic Allocation Results .................................................................................... 298
7.2.11.5 Allocating and Deleting Neighbours per Transmitter ................................................................ 300
7.2.11.6 Calculating the Importance of Existing Neighbours .................................................................. 302
7.2.11.7 Checking the Consistency of the Neighbour Allocation Plan.................................................... 304
7.2.11.8 Exporting Neighbours ............................................................................................................... 304
7.3 Studying Network Capacity ................................................................................................... 305
7.3.1 Defining Multi-service Traffic Data ................................................................................................. 305
7.3.2 Creating a Traffic Map.................................................................................................................... 305
7.3.2.1 Creating a Traffic Map per Sector............................................................................................. 306
7.3.2.2 Creating a Traffic Map per User Profile .................................................................................... 307
7.3.2.3 Creating Traffic Maps per User Density (No. Users/km2) ........................................................ 311
7.3.2.4 Converting 2G Network Traffic ................................................................................................. 312
7.3.2.5 Exporting Cumulated Traffic ..................................................................................................... 312
7.3.3 Exporting a Traffic Map .................................................................................................................. 313
7.3.4 Calculating and Displaying a Traffic Capture ................................................................................. 313
7.3.4.1 Prerequisites for a Traffic Capture............................................................................................ 313
7.3.4.2 Creating a Traffic Capture ........................................................................................................ 314
7.3.4.3 GSM/GPRS/EDGE Traffic Capture Results ............................................................................. 315
7.3.4.4 Estimating a Traffic Increase .................................................................................................... 315
7.3.4.5 Modifying a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Traffic Capture ....................................................................... 315
7.3.5 Dimensioning a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Network ................................................................................. 316
7.3.5.1 Defining a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Dimensioning Model ................................................................ 316
7.3.5.2 Dimensioning a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Network ........................................................................... 317
7.4 Allocating Frequencies and BSICs .................................................................................... 320
7.4.1 Allocating Frequencies and BSICs Manually ................................................................................. 320
7.4.1.1 Assigning BSIC Domains to Transmitters................................................................................. 320
7.4.1.2 Assigning BSICs to Transmitters Manually............................................................................... 321
7.4.1.3 Defining Frequency Domains for Transmitters ......................................................................... 321
7.4.1.4 Assigning Frequencies to Subcells........................................................................................... 322
7.4.2 Allocating Frequencies and BSICs Using an AFP Module............................................................. 323
7.4.2.1 Prerequisites for an Automatic Frequency Allocation ............................................................... 324
7.4.2.2 Interference Matrices ................................................................................................................ 324
7.4.2.3 Defining Required Channel Separations .................................................................................. 331
7.4.2.4 Automatic Frequency Allocation ............................................................................................... 334
7.4.2.5 Interactive Frequency Allocation............................................................................................... 345
7.5 Analysing Network Quality ..................................................................................................... 347
7.5.1 Interference Coverage Predictions ................................................................................................. 347
7.5.1.1 Making Quality Studies Based on C⁄I or C⁄(I+N) ....................................................................... 348
7.5.1.2 Studying Interference Areas ..................................................................................................... 350
7.5.1.3 Analysing Interference Areas Using a Point Analysis............................................................... 352
7.5.1.4 Example of Analysing Interference Using a Point Analysis ...................................................... 354
7.5.2 Packet-Specific Coverage Predictions ........................................................................................... 355
7.5.2.1 Making a Coverage Prediction by GPRS/EDGE Coding Schemes .......................................... 355
7.5.2.2 Making a Coverage Prediction by Packet Throughput per Timeslot......................................... 357
7.5.2.3 Making a BLER Coverage Prediction ....................................................................................... 359
7.5.3 Making a Circuit Quality Indicator (BER, FER, or MOS) Coverage Prediction............................... 362
7.5.4 Studying Interference Between Transmitters ................................................................................. 364
7.5.5 Auditing a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Frequency Plan.............................................................................. 365
7.5.6 Checking Consistency Between Transmitters and Subcells .......................................................... 367
7.5.7 Displaying the Frequency Allocation .............................................................................................. 368
7.5.7.1 Using the Search Tool to Display Channel Reuse.................................................................... 368
7.5.7.2 Displaying the Frequency Allocation Using Transmitter Display Settings ................................ 369
7.5.7.3 Grouping Transmitters by Frequencies .................................................................................... 369
7.5.7.4 Displaying the Channel Allocation Histogram........................................................................... 370
7.5.8 Calculating Key Performance Indicators of a GSM/GPRS/EDGE Network ................................... 370
7.6 Optimising and Verifying Network Capacity .................................................................. 373
7.6.1 Importing a Test Mobile Data Path ................................................................................................. 373
7.6.2 Displaying Test Mobile Data........................................................................................................... 375
7.6.3 Defining the Display of a Test Mobile Data Path ............................................................................ 375
7.6.4 Network Verification ....................................................................................................................... 376
7.6.4.1 Filtering Incompatible Points Along Test Mobile Data Paths .................................................... 376

Atoll User Manual
7.6.4.2 Creating Coverage Predictions from Test Mobile Data Paths ...................................................377
7.6.4.3 Extracting a Field From a Test Mobile Path for a Transmitter ...................................................379
7.6.4.4 Analysing Data Variations Along the Path.................................................................................380
7.6.5 Printing and Exporting the Test Mobile Data Window.....................................................................381
7.7 Advanced Configuration...........................................................................................................382
7.7.1 Defining Resource Ranges .............................................................................................................382
7.7.1.1 Frequencies...............................................................................................................................382
7.7.1.2 BSICs ........................................................................................................................................383
7.7.1.3 Defining HSN Domains and Groups..........................................................................................385
7.7.2 Setting HCS Layers.........................................................................................................................385
7.7.3 Comparing Service Areas in Calculations.......................................................................................386
7.7.4 Cell Types .......................................................................................................................................390
7.7.4.1 TRX Types ................................................................................................................................390
7.7.4.2 Creating a Cell Type..................................................................................................................390
7.7.4.3 Examples of Cell Types.............................................................................................................392
7.7.5 TRX Configuration...........................................................................................................................393
7.7.5.1 Creating or Importing TRX Configuration ..................................................................................394
7.7.6 Codec Configuration .......................................................................................................................394
7.7.6.1 Accessing the Codec Mode table ..............................................................................................394
7.7.6.2 Creating or Modifying Codec Configuration ..............................................................................395
7.7.6.3 Setting Codec Mode Adaptation Thresholds .............................................................................395
7.7.6.4 Setting Codec Mode Quality Thresholds ...................................................................................396
7.7.6.5 Using Codec Configurations in Transmitters and Terminals .....................................................396
7.7.7 Coding Scheme Configuration ........................................................................................................397
7.7.7.1 Accessing the Coding Scheme table.........................................................................................397
7.7.7.2 Creating or Modifying Coding Scheme Configuration ...............................................................397
7.7.7.3 Using Coding Scheme Configuration in Transmitters and Terminals........................................398
7.7.7.4 Adapting Coding Scheme Thresholds for a Maximum BLER....................................................399
7.7.7.5 Displaying Coding Scheme Throughput Graphs .......................................................................399
7.7.8 Timeslot Configurations ..................................................................................................................400
7.7.8.1 Creating or Modifying a Timeslot Configuration ........................................................................400
7.7.9 Advanced Transmitter Configuration Options .................................................................................400
7.7.9.1 Defining Extended Cells ............................................................................................................401
7.7.9.2 Advanced Modelling of Multi-Band Transmitters .......................................................................401
7.7.10 GSM/GPRS/EDGE Multi-Service Traffic Data ................................................................................403
7.7.10.1 Modelling GSM/GPRS/EDGE Services.....................................................................................404
7.7.10.2 Modelling GSM/GPRS/EDGE Mobility Types ...........................................................................404
7.7.10.3 Modelling GSM/GPRS/EDGE Terminals...................................................................................405
7.7.11 Defining the Interferer Reception Threshold ...................................................................................406
7.7.12 Taking Intermodulation Interference into Consideration in Calculations .........................................407
7.7.13 Modelling Shadowing ......................................................................................................................407
7.7.13.1 Displaying the Shadowing Margins per Clutter Class ...............................................................407
7.7.14 Modelling the Co-existence of Networks.........................................................................................408
8 The Atoll AFP Module .............................................................................................................411

8.1 Managing the Atoll AFP Module ..........................................................................................411
8.1.1 The Atoll AFP Cost Function...........................................................................................................411
8.1.2 Opening the Atoll AFP Module Properties Dialogue .......................................................................411
8.1.3 Defining AFP Parameters ...............................................................................................................412
8.1.3.1 Defining Interference Cost.........................................................................................................412
8.1.3.2 Defining Separation Constraint Violation Cost ..........................................................................413
8.1.3.3 Other Costs Involved in the AFP Cost Function........................................................................413
8.1.3.4 Weighting the Cost Components...............................................................................................415
8.1.3.5 Setting the Interferer Diversity Gain ..........................................................................................415
8.1.3.6 Setting Frequency Diversity Gain..............................................................................................416
8.1.3.7 Setting Gain Due to Low Timeslot Use Ratio ............................................................................416
8.1.4 Defining AFP Allocation Strategies .................................................................................................417
8.1.4.1 Setting Channel Spectrum Usage .............................................................................................417
8.1.4.2 Setting HSN Strategy in FH.......................................................................................................418
8.1.4.3 Defining MAL Targets in SFH....................................................................................................418
8.1.4.4 Managing MAIO Preferences in SFH ........................................................................................419
8.1.4.5 Setting BSIC Usage Diversity....................................................................................................419
8.1.5 Interference Matrix Combination in Atoll AFP Module ....................................................................420
8.2 The Atoll AFP Module Properties Dialogue....................................................................421
8.2.1 The Atoll AFP Cost Tab ..................................................................................................................421
8.2.2 The Atoll AFP Separation Weights Tab ..........................................................................................422
8.2.3 The Atoll AFP Interference Matrices Tab ........................................................................................423

Table of Contents
8.2.4 The Atoll AFP HSN Tab ................................................................................................................. 423

8.2.5 The Atoll AFP MAL Tab.................................................................................................................. 424
8.2.6 The Atoll AFP Execution Tab ......................................................................................................... 424
8.2.7 The Atoll AFP Spacing Tab ............................................................................................................ 425
8.2.8 The Atoll AFP Protections Tab ....................................................................................................... 426
8.2.9 The Atoll AFP Advanced Tab ......................................................................................................... 427
9 UMTS HSPA Networks ......................................................................................................... 431

9.1 Designing a UMTS Network .................................................................................................. 431
9.2 Planning and Optimising UMTS Base Stations ........................................................... 432
9.2.1 Creating a UMTS Base Station ...................................................................................................... 433
9.2.1.1 Definition of a Base Station ...................................................................................................... 433
9.2.1.2 Creating or Modifying a Base Station Element ......................................................................... 439
9.2.1.3 Placing a New Station Using a Station Template ..................................................................... 440
9.2.1.4 Managing Station Templates .................................................................................................... 442
9.2.1.5 Duplicating an Existing Base Station ........................................................................................ 446
9.2.2 Creating a Group of Base Stations................................................................................................. 447
9.2.3 Modifying Sites and Transmitters Directly on the Map ................................................................... 447
9.2.4 Display Tips for Base Stations ....................................................................................................... 447
9.2.5 Creating a Dual-Band UMTS Network ........................................................................................... 448
9.2.6 Creating a Repeater ....................................................................................................................... 448
9.2.6.1 Creating and Modifying Repeater Equipment........................................................................... 448
9.2.6.2 Placing a Repeater on the Map Using the Mouse .................................................................... 449
9.2.6.3 Creating Several Repeaters ..................................................................................................... 449
9.2.6.4 Defining the Properties of a Repeater ...................................................................................... 449
9.2.6.5 Tips for Updating Repeater Parameters ................................................................................... 451
9.2.7 Creating a Remote Antenna ........................................................................................................... 451
9.2.7.1 Placing a Remote Antenna on the Map Using the Mouse ........................................................ 451
9.2.7.2 Creating Several Remote Antennas ......................................................................................... 452
9.2.7.3 Defining the Properties of a Remote Antenna .......................................................................... 452
9.2.7.4 Tips for Updating Remote Antenna Parameters....................................................................... 453
9.2.8 Setting the Working Area of an Atoll Document ............................................................................. 453
9.2.9 Studying a Single Base Station ...................................................................................................... 453
9.2.9.1 Making a Point Analysis to Study the Profile ............................................................................ 454
9.2.9.2 Studying Signal Level Coverage............................................................................................... 455
9.2.10 Studying Base Stations .................................................................................................................. 457
9.2.10.1 Path Loss Matrices ................................................................................................................... 458
9.2.10.2 Assigning a Propagation Model ................................................................................................ 459
9.2.10.3 The Calculation Process........................................................................................................... 461
9.2.10.4 Creating a Computation Zone................................................................................................... 461
9.2.10.5 Setting Transmitters or Cells as Active..................................................................................... 462
9.2.10.6 Signal Level Coverage Predictions........................................................................................... 463
9.2.10.8 UMTS-Specific Studies............................................................................................................. 474
9.2.10.9 HSDPA Coverage Prediction.................................................................................................... 489
9.2.10.10 HSUPA Coverage Prediction.................................................................................................... 491
9.2.11.5 Allocating and Deleting Neighbours per Cell ............................................................................ 499
9.2.12 Planning Scrambling Codes ........................................................................................................... 503
9.2.12.1 Defining the Scrambling Code Format...................................................................................... 503
9.2.12.2 Creating Scrambling Code Domains and Groups..................................................................... 504
9.2.12.3 Defining Exceptional Pairs for Scrambling Code Allocation ..................................................... 504
9.2.12.4 Allocating Scrambling Codes.................................................................................................... 504
9.2.12.5 Checking the Consistency of the Scrambling Code Plan ......................................................... 507
9.2.12.6 Displaying the Allocation of Scrambling Codes ........................................................................ 507

Atoll User Manual
9.3.2.3 Creating Traffic Maps per User Density (No. Users/km2) .........................................................517
9.3.2.4 Converting 2G Network Traffic ..................................................................................................518
9.3.2.5 Exporting Cumulated Traffic ......................................................................................................519
9.3.3 Exporting a Traffic Map ...................................................................................................................519
9.3.4 Calculating and Displaying Traffic Simulations ...............................................................................520
9.3.4.1 The Power Control Simulation Algorithm ..................................................................................520
9.3.4.2 Creating Simulations .................................................................................................................523
9.3.4.3 Displaying the Traffic Distribution on the Map ...........................................................................524
9.3.4.4 Displaying the User Active Set on the Map ...............................................................................526
9.3.4.5 Displaying the Results of a Single Simulation ...........................................................................527
9.3.4.6 Displaying the Average Results of a Group of Simulations .......................................................532
9.3.4.7 Updating Cell Values With Simulation Results ..........................................................................535
9.3.4.8 Adding New Simulations to an Atoll Document .........................................................................535
9.3.4.9 Estimating a Traffic Increase .....................................................................................................537
9.3.5 Analysing the Results of a Simulation.............................................................................................537
9.3.5.1 Making an AS Analysis of Simulation Results ...........................................................................538
9.3.5.2 Making Coverage Predictions Using Simulation Results ..........................................................538
9.4 Optimising and Verifying Network Capacity ...................................................................539
9.4.1 Importing a Test Mobile Data Path..................................................................................................539
9.4.2 Displaying Test Mobile Data ...........................................................................................................542
9.4.3 Defining the Display of a Test Mobile Data Path.............................................................................542
9.4.4 Network Verification ........................................................................................................................543
9.4.4.1 Filtering Incompatible Points Along Test Mobile Data Paths.....................................................543
9.4.4.2 Creating Coverage Predictions from Test Mobile Data Paths ...................................................544
9.5.1 Defining Inter-Carrier Interference ..................................................................................................548
9.5.2 Defining Frequency Bands..............................................................................................................549
9.5.3 The Global Transmitter Parameters................................................................................................549
9.5.3.1 The Options on the Global Parameters Tab..............................................................................549
9.5.3.2 Modifying Global Transmitter Parameters.................................................................................550
9.5.4 Radio Bearers .................................................................................................................................550
9.5.4.1 Defining R99 Radio Bearers......................................................................................................550
9.5.4.2 Defining HSDPA Radio Bearers ................................................................................................551
9.5.4.3 Defining HSUPA Radio Bearers ................................................................................................552
9.5.5 Site Equipment................................................................................................................................552
9.5.5.1 Creating Site Equipment ...........................................................................................................552
9.5.5.2 Defining Resource Consumption per UMTS Site Equipment and R99 Radio Bearer ...............553
9.5.5.3 Defining Resource Consumption per UMTS Site Equipment and HSUPA Radio Bearer .........553
9.5.6 Receiver Equipment........................................................................................................................554
9.5.6.1 Setting Receiver Height.............................................................................................................554
9.5.6.2 Creating or Modifying Reception Equipment .............................................................................554
9.5.6.3 HSDPA UE Categories..............................................................................................................555
9.5.6.4 HSUPA UE Categories..............................................................................................................556
9.5.7 Multiple Input Multiple Output Systems...........................................................................................556
9.5.8 Conditions for Entering the Active Set ............................................................................................557
9.5.9.1 Displaying the Shadowing Margins and Macro-diversity Gain per Clutter Class ......................558
10 Atoll ACP Module........................................................................................................................561

10.1 The ACP Module and Atoll .....................................................................................................561
10.1.1 Using Zones with ACP ....................................................................................................................561
10.1.1.1 Using the Computation Zone and the Focus Zone....................................................................561
10.1.1.2 Using Hot Spots ........................................................................................................................561
10.1.1.3 Using the Filtering Zone ............................................................................................................561
10.1.2 Using Traffic Maps with ACP ..........................................................................................................562
10.1.3 Shadowing Margin and Indoor Coverage........................................................................................562
10.1.4 Propagation Models and ACP.........................................................................................................562
10.1.4.1 Natively Supported Propagation Models ...................................................................................563
10.1.4.2 Precalculated Path Loss Matrices .............................................................................................563
10.2 Configuring the ACP Module .................................................................................................564
10.2.1 Configuring the Default Settings .....................................................................................................564
10.2.2 Saving Settings to a User Configuration File ..................................................................................565

Table of Contents
10.3 Optimising Cell Planning with the ACP ............................................................................ 565

10.3.1 Creating an Optimisation Setup ..................................................................................................... 566
10.3.2 Creating an Optimisation Setup in a Co-planning Environment ..................................................... 566
10.3.2.1 Preparing the Atoll Document................................................................................................... 566
10.3.2.2 Creating a New Co-planning Optimisation Setup ..................................................................... 567
10.3.2.3 Importing the Second Radio Technology into the Setup .......................................................... 567
10.3.3 Defining Optimisation Parameters.................................................................................................. 568
10.3.3.1 Setting Optimisation Parameters .............................................................................................. 568
10.3.3.2 Setting Objective Parameters ................................................................................................... 571
10.3.3.3 Setting Traffic Parameters for Non-uniform Traffic ................................................................... 573
10.3.3.4 Setting Network Reconfiguration Parameters........................................................................... 575
10.3.3.5 Defining Site Selection Parameters .......................................................................................... 580
10.3.3.6 Defining Antenna Groups ......................................................................................................... 583
10.3.3.7 Adding Comments to the Optimisation Setup........................................................................... 585
10.3.3.8 Setting Advanced Parameters .................................................................................................. 585
10.4 Running an Optimisation Setup ........................................................................................... 586
10.5 Working with Optimisations in the Explorer Window................................................. 587
10.6 Viewing Optimisation Results ............................................................................................... 588
10.6.1 Viewing Optimisation Results in the Properties Dialogue .............................................................. 588
10.6.1.1 The Statistics Tab ..................................................................................................................... 589
10.6.1.2 The Sectors Tab ....................................................................................................................... 590
10.6.1.3 The Graph Tab ......................................................................................................................... 592
10.6.1.4 The Quality Tab ........................................................................................................................ 593
10.6.1.5 The Change Details Tab........................................................................................................... 593
10.6.1.6 The Commit Tab ....................................................................................................................... 595
10.6.2 Viewing Optimisation Results in the Map Window ......................................................................... 595
10.6.2.1 The Quality Analysis Maps ....................................................................................................... 596
10.6.2.2 The Coverage Analysis Maps................................................................................................... 597
10.6.2.3 The Change Analysis Maps...................................................................................................... 598
10.6.2.4 Best Server Analysis................................................................................................................. 599
10.6.2.5 Comparing Maps ...................................................................................................................... 599
10.6.2.6 Changing the Display Properties of ACP Maps ........................................................................ 600
11 CDMA2000 Networks ............................................................................................................. 605

11.1 Planning and Optimising CDMA Base Stations ........................................................... 605
11.1.1 Creating a CDMA Base Station...................................................................................................... 606
11.1.1.3 Placing a New Station Using a Station Template ..................................................................... 612
11.1.1.5 Duplicating of an Existing Base Station .................................................................................... 617
11.1.5 Creating a Dual-Band CDMA Network ........................................................................................... 619

Atoll User Manual
11.1.10.6 Signal Level Coverage Predictions ...........................................................................................634

11.1.10.7 Analysing a Coverage Prediction ..............................................................................................639
11.1.10.8 CDMA-Specific Coverage Predictions.......................................................................................646
11.1.10.9 Printing and Exporting Coverage Prediction Results ................................................................663
11.1.11 Planning Neighbours.......................................................................................................................663
11.1.11.1 Importing Neighbours ................................................................................................................664
11.1.11.2 Defining Exceptional Pairs ........................................................................................................664
11.1.11.3 Allocating Neighbours Automatically .........................................................................................664
11.1.11.4 Checking Automatic Allocation Results .....................................................................................667
11.1.11.5 Allocating and Deleting Neighbours per Cell .............................................................................670
11.1.11.6 Checking the Consistency of the Neighbour Allocation Plan ....................................................672
11.1.11.7 Exporting Neighbours................................................................................................................673
11.1.12 Planning PN Offsets........................................................................................................................673
11.1.12.1 Defining Exceptional Pairs for PN Offset Allocation ..................................................................674
11.1.12.2 Allocating PN Offsets ................................................................................................................674
11.1.12.3 Checking the Consistency of the PN Offset Plan ......................................................................677
11.1.12.4 Displaying the Allocation of PN Offsets .....................................................................................677
11.2 Studying Network Capacity ....................................................................................................680
11.2.1 Defining Multi-service Traffic Data ..................................................................................................680
11.2.2 Creating a Traffic Map.....................................................................................................................681
11.2.2.1 Creating a Traffic Map per Sector .............................................................................................681
11.2.2.2 Creating a Traffic Map per User Profile .....................................................................................682
11.2.4.1 The Power Control Simulation Algorithm ..................................................................................690
11.2.4.3 Displaying the Traffic Distribution on the Map...........................................................................693
11.2.4.4 Displaying the User Active Set on the Map ...............................................................................695
11.2.4.7 Updating Cell Values With Simulation Results ..........................................................................702
11.2.5 Analysing the Results of a Simulation.............................................................................................704
11.2.5.1 Making an AS Analysis of Simulation Results ...........................................................................705
11.2.5.2 Making Coverage Predictions Using Simulation Results ..........................................................705
11.3 Verifying and Optimising Network Quality.......................................................................706
11.3.4.2 Refreshing Geo Data for Test Mobile Data ...............................................................................711
11.3.4.3 Comparing Measurements with Predictions ..............................................................................711
11.3.4.4 Extracting Data From a Test Mobile Path for a Selected Transmitter .......................................713
11.4.3.2 Modifying Global Transmitter Parameters .................................................................................717
11.4.4 Data Rates Available for Services in CDMA ...................................................................................717
11.4.5 The 1xEV-DO Rev. A Radio Bearers ..............................................................................................718
11.4.5.1 Defining the Forward Link 1xEV-DO Rev. A Radio Bearer .......................................................718
11.4.5.2 Defining the Reverse Link 1xEV-DO Rev. A Radio Bearer .......................................................719
11.4.6 Site Equipment................................................................................................................................719
11.4.6.1 Creating Site Equipment ...........................................................................................................719
11.4.6.2 Defining Channel Element Consumption per CDMA Site Equipment and Radio Configuration720
11.4.8 Conditions for Entering the Active Set ............................................................................................721

Table of Contents
11.4.9 Modelling Shadowing ..................................................................................................................... 721

11.4.9.1 Displaying the Shadowing Margins and Macro-diversity Gain per Clutter Class...................... 722
11.4.10 Creating PN Offset Domains and Groups for PN Offset Allocation ................................................ 723
12 TD-SCDMA Networks ............................................................................................................ 727

12.1 Designing a TD-SCDMA Network ...................................................................................... 727
12.2 Planning and Optimising TD-SCDMA Base Stations ............................................... 728
12.2.1 Creating a TD-SCDMA Base Station ............................................................................................. 728
12.2.1.3 Placing a New Base Station Using a Station Template ............................................................ 736
12.2.1.5 Duplicating of an Existing Base Station .................................................................................... 742
12.2.5 Creating a Dual-Band TD-SCDMA Network................................................................................... 744
12.2.10.8 Signal Quality Coverage Predictions ........................................................................................ 774
12.2.10.9 HSDPA Coverage Prediction.................................................................................................... 793
12.2.11 Planning Frequencies..................................................................................................................... 795
12.2.11.1 Setting up N-Frequency Mode.................................................................................................. 795
12.2.11.2 Allocating Frequencies Automatically ....................................................................................... 795
12.2.11.4 Allocating Carrier Types per Transmitter .................................................................................. 796
12.2.11.5 Checking the Consistency of the Frequency Allocation Plan ................................................... 796
12.2.13 Planning Scrambling Codes ........................................................................................................... 808
12.2.13.1 Defining the Scrambling Code Format...................................................................................... 808
12.2.13.2 Creating Scrambling Code Domains and Groups..................................................................... 809
12.2.13.3 Defining Exceptional Pairs for Scrambling Code Allocation ..................................................... 809
12.2.13.4 Allocating Scrambling Codes.................................................................................................... 810
12.2.13.5 Checking the Consistency of the Scrambling Code Plan ......................................................... 812
12.2.13.6 Displaying the Allocation of Scrambling Codes ........................................................................ 813
12.3.1 TD-SCDMA Network Capacity ....................................................................................................... 816
12.3.1.1 Calculating Available Network Capacity ................................................................................... 816

Atoll User Manual
12.3.1.2 Calculating Required Network Capacity ....................................................................................818

12.3.2 Defining Multi-service Traffic Data ..................................................................................................820
12.3.3 Creating a Traffic Map.....................................................................................................................821
12.3.3.1 Creating a Traffic Map per Sector .............................................................................................821
12.3.3.2 Creating a Traffic Map per User Profile .....................................................................................822
12.3.5.1 The Monte Carlo Simulation Algorithm......................................................................................829
12.3.5.3 Displaying the Traffic Distribution on the Map...........................................................................833
12.3.5.4 Displaying the User Best Server on the Map ............................................................................835
12.3.5.7 Updating Cell and Timeslot Values With Simulation Results ....................................................841
12.3.6 Making Coverage Predictions Using Simulation Results ................................................................843
12.4 Optimising and Verifying Network Capacity ...................................................................844
12.5.3.2 Modifying Global Transmitter Parameters .................................................................................854
12.5.4 Smart Antenna Modelling................................................................................................................854
12.5.4.1 Types of Smart Antenna Modelling ...........................................................................................854
12.5.4.2 Smart Antenna Equipment ........................................................................................................857
12.5.5 Radio Bearers .................................................................................................................................859
12.5.5.1 Defining R99 Radio Bearers......................................................................................................859
12.5.5.2 Defining HSDPA Radio Bearers ................................................................................................860
12.5.6 Creating Site Equipment .................................................................................................................860
12.5.7.3 Creating or Modifying HSDPA User Equipment Categories......................................................862
12.5.8.1 Displaying the Shadowing Margins ...........................................................................................862
12.5.9 Maximum System Range ................................................................................................................863
13 WiMAX BWA Networks..........................................................................................................867

13.1 Designing a WiMAX Network ................................................................................................867
13.2 Planning and Optimising WiMAX Base Stations .........................................................868
13.2.1 Creating a WiMAX Base Station .....................................................................................................869
13.2.1.1 Definition of a Base Station .......................................................................................................869
13.2.1.2 Creating or Modifying a Base Station Element..........................................................................875
13.2.1.3 Placing a New Base Station Using a Station Template.............................................................876
13.2.1.4 Managing Station Templates.....................................................................................................877
13.2.1.5 Duplicates of an Existing Base Station......................................................................................880
13.2.2 Creating a Group of Base Stations .................................................................................................881
13.2.3 Modifying Sites and Transmitters Directly on the Map....................................................................882
13.2.4 Display Tips for Base Stations ........................................................................................................882
13.2.5 Creating a Multi-Band WiMAX Network ..........................................................................................882
13.2.6 Setting the Working Area of an Atoll Document..............................................................................882
13.2.7 Studying a Single Base Station.......................................................................................................883
13.2.7.1 Making a Point Analysis to Study the Profile .............................................................................883

Table of Contents

13.2.8.8 WiMAX Coverage Predictions .................................................................................................. 904
13.2.10 Planning Frequencies..................................................................................................................... 929
13.2.10.1 Allocating Frequencies ............................................................................................................. 929
13.2.10.2 Displaying the Frequency Allocation......................................................................................... 931
13.2.11 Planning Preamble Indexes ........................................................................................................... 933
13.2.11.1 Allocating Preamble Indexes .................................................................................................... 933
13.2.11.2 Checking the Consistency of the Preamble Index Plan............................................................ 935
13.2.11.3 Displaying the Allocation of Preamble Indexes......................................................................... 935
13.3.2.3 Creating Traffic Maps per User Density (No. Users/km2) ........................................................ 943
13.3.2.4 Converting 2G Network Traffic ................................................................................................. 945
13.3.2.5 Exporting Cumulated Traffic ..................................................................................................... 945
13.3.3 Exporting a Traffic Map .................................................................................................................. 945
13.3.4 Working with a Subscriber Database ............................................................................................. 946
13.3.4.1 Creating a Subscriber List ........................................................................................................ 946
13.3.4.2 Performing Calculations on Subscriber lists ............................................................................. 949
13.3.5 Calculating and Displaying Traffic Simulations .............................................................................. 949
13.3.5.1 WiMAX Traffic Simulation Algorithm......................................................................................... 950
13.3.5.2 Creating Simulations................................................................................................................. 952
13.3.5.3 Displaying the Traffic Distribution on the Map .......................................................................... 953
13.3.5.4 Displaying the Results of a Single Simulation .......................................................................... 957
13.3.5.5 Displaying the Average Results of a Group of Simulations ...................................................... 960
13.3.5.6 Updating Cell Load Values With Simulation Results ................................................................ 962
13.3.5.7 Estimating a Traffic Increase .................................................................................................... 962
13.3.6 Making Coverage Predictions Using Simulation Results ............................................................... 963
13.4 Optimising and Verifying Network Capacity .................................................................. 963
13.4.1 Importing a Test Mobile Data Path ................................................................................................. 963
13.4.2 Displaying Test Mobile Data........................................................................................................... 966
13.4.3 Defining the Display of a Test Mobile Data Path ............................................................................ 966
13.4.4 Network Verification ....................................................................................................................... 967
13.4.4.1 Filtering Incompatible Points Along Test Mobile Data Paths .................................................... 967
13.4.4.2 Creating Coverage Predictions from Test Mobile Data Paths .................................................. 968
13.4.4.3 Extracting a Field From a Test Mobile Path for a Transmitter .................................................. 969
13.4.4.4 Analysing Data Variations Along the Path ................................................................................ 969
13.4.5 Printing and Exporting the Test Mobile Data Window .................................................................... 971
13.5 Advanced Configuration .......................................................................................................... 971
13.5.1 Defining Frequency Bands ............................................................................................................. 971
13.5.2 The Global Transmitter Parameters ............................................................................................... 972
13.5.2.1 The Options on the Global Parameters Tab ............................................................................. 972
13.5.2.2 Modifying Global Transmitter Parameters ................................................................................ 974
13.5.3 Defining Frame Configurations....................................................................................................... 975
13.5.4 Defining WiMAX Radio Bearers ..................................................................................................... 977
13.5.5 Defining WiMAX Quality Indicators ................................................................................................ 977
13.5.6 Defining WiMAX Equipment ........................................................................................................... 978
13.5.7 Defining WiMAX Schedulers .......................................................................................................... 980

Atoll User Manual
13.5.8 Smart Antenna Systems .................................................................................................................982

13.5.8.1 Optimum Beamformer ...............................................................................................................983
13.5.8.2 Conventional Beamformer.........................................................................................................983
13.5.8.3 Defining Smart Antenna Equipment ..........................................................................................983
13.5.9 Multiple Input Multiple Output Systems...........................................................................................984
13.5.10.1 Displaying the Shadowing Margins per Clutter Class ...............................................................986
13.6 Tips and Tricks .............................................................................................................................987
13.7 Glossary of WiMAX Terms .....................................................................................................995
14 LTE Networks ..............................................................................................................................1001

14.1 Designing an LTE Network ...................................................................................................1001
14.2 Planning and Optimising LTE Base Stations ...............................................................1002
14.2.1 Creating an LTE Base Station.......................................................................................................1003
14.2.1.1 Definition of a Base Station .....................................................................................................1003
14.2.1.2 Creating or Modifying a Base Station Element........................................................................1007
14.2.1.3 Placing a New Base Station Using a Station Template...........................................................1009
14.2.1.4 Managing Station Templates...................................................................................................1010
14.2.1.5 Duplicates of an Existing Base Station....................................................................................1013
14.2.2 Creating a Group of Base Stations ...............................................................................................1014
14.2.3 Modifying Sites and Transmitters Directly on the Map..................................................................1014
14.2.4 Display Tips for Base Stations ......................................................................................................1014
14.2.5 Creating a Multi-Band LTE Network..............................................................................................1015
14.2.6 Setting the Working Area of an Atoll Document............................................................................1015
14.2.7 Studying a Single Base Station.....................................................................................................1015
14.2.7.1 Making a Point Analysis to Study the Profile ...........................................................................1016
14.2.7.2 Studying Signal Level Coverage .............................................................................................1017
14.2.8 Studying Base Stations .................................................................................................................1019
14.2.8.1 Path Loss Matrices ..................................................................................................................1020
14.2.8.2 Assigning a Propagation Model...............................................................................................1021
14.2.8.3 The Calculation Process .........................................................................................................1023
14.2.8.4 Creating a Computation Zone .................................................................................................1023
14.2.8.5 Setting Transmitters or Cells as Active ...................................................................................1024
14.2.8.6 Signal Level Coverage Predictions .........................................................................................1024
14.2.8.7 Analysing a Coverage Prediction ............................................................................................1028
14.2.8.8 LTE Coverage Predictions ......................................................................................................1036
14.2.8.9 Printing and Exporting Coverage Prediction Results ..............................................................1051
14.2.9 Planning Neighbours.....................................................................................................................1052
14.2.9.1 Importing Neighbours ..............................................................................................................1052
14.2.9.2 Defining Exceptional Pairs ......................................................................................................1052
14.2.9.3 Allocating Neighbours Automatically .......................................................................................1053
14.2.9.4 Checking Automatic Allocation Results ...................................................................................1055
14.2.9.5 Allocating and Deleting Neighbours per Cell ...........................................................................1058
14.2.9.6 Checking the Consistency of the Neighbour Allocation Plan ..................................................1060
14.2.9.7 Exporting Neighbours..............................................................................................................1061
14.2.10 Planning Frequencies ...................................................................................................................1061
14.2.10.1 Allocating Frequencies ............................................................................................................1061
14.2.10.2 Displaying the Frequency Allocation .......................................................................................1063
14.2.11 Planning Physical Cell IDs ............................................................................................................1065
14.2.11.1 Allocating Physical Cell IDs .....................................................................................................1065
14.2.11.2 Checking the Consistency of the Physical Cell ID Plan ..........................................................1066
14.2.11.3 Displaying the Allocation of Physical Cell IDs .........................................................................1067
14.3 Studying Network Capacity ..................................................................................................1069
14.3.1 Defining Multi-service Traffic Data ................................................................................................1069
14.3.2 Creating a Traffic Map...................................................................................................................1069
14.3.2.1 Creating a Traffic Map per Sector ...........................................................................................1070
14.3.2.2 Creating a Traffic Map per User Profile ...................................................................................1071
14.3.2.3 Creating Traffic Maps per User Density (No. Users/km2) .......................................................1075
14.3.2.4 Converting 2G Network Traffic ................................................................................................1076
14.3.2.5 Exporting Cumulated Traffic ....................................................................................................1077
14.3.3 Exporting a Traffic Map .................................................................................................................1077
14.3.4 Working with a Subscriber Database ............................................................................................1078
14.3.4.1 Creating a Subscriber List .......................................................................................................1078
14.3.4.2 Performing Calculations on Subscriber lists............................................................................1081
14.3.5 Calculating and Displaying Traffic Simulations .............................................................................1081
14.3.5.1 LTE Traffic Simulation Algorithm .............................................................................................1082

Table of Contents
14.3.5.2 Creating Simulations............................................................................................................... 1083

14.3.5.3 Displaying the Traffic Distribution on the Map ........................................................................ 1084
14.3.5.4 Displaying the Results of a Single Simulation ........................................................................ 1087
14.3.5.5 Displaying the Average Results of a Group of Simulations .................................................... 1090
14.3.5.6 Updating Cell Load Values With Simulation Results .............................................................. 1092
14.3.5.7 Estimating a Traffic Increase .................................................................................................. 1092
14.3.6 Making Coverage Predictions Using Simulation Results ............................................................. 1093
14.4 Optimising and Verifying Network Capacity ................................................................ 1093
14.4.1 Importing a Test Mobile Data Path ............................................................................................... 1093
14.4.2 Displaying Test Mobile Data......................................................................................................... 1096
14.4.3 Defining the Display of a Test Mobile Data Path .......................................................................... 1096
14.4.4 Network Verification ..................................................................................................................... 1097
14.4.4.1 Filtering Incompatible Points Along Test Mobile Data Paths .................................................. 1097
14.4.4.2 Creating Coverage Predictions from Test Mobile Data Paths ................................................ 1098
14.4.4.3 Extracting a Field From a Test Mobile Path for a Transmitter ................................................ 1099
14.4.4.4 Analysing Data Variations Along the Path .............................................................................. 1099
14.4.5 Printing and Exporting the Test Mobile Data Window .................................................................. 1101
14.5 Advanced Configuration ........................................................................................................ 1101
14.5.1 Defining Frequency Bands ........................................................................................................... 1101
14.5.2 The Global Transmitter Parameters ............................................................................................. 1102
14.5.2.1 The Options on the Global Parameters Tab ........................................................................... 1102
14.5.2.2 Modifying Global Transmitter Parameters .............................................................................. 1103
14.5.3 Defining LTE Radio Bearers......................................................................................................... 1103
14.5.4 Defining LTE Quality Indicators .................................................................................................... 1104
14.5.5 Defining LTE Equipment .............................................................................................................. 1104
14.5.6 Defining LTE Schedulers.............................................................................................................. 1107
14.5.7 Multiple Input Multiple Output Systems ........................................................................................ 1108
14.5.8 Modelling Shadowing ................................................................................................................... 1109
14.5.8.1 Displaying the Shadowing Margins per Clutter Class............................................................. 1110
14.6 Tips and Tricks........................................................................................................................... 1110
14.7 Glossary of LTE Terms .......................................................................................................... 1114
15 Microwave Link Project Management ..................................................................... 1119

15.1 Microwave Links Projects Protocol .................................................................................. 1119
15.2 Managing Microwave Links ................................................................................................. 1120
15.2.1 Microwave Links........................................................................................................................... 1120
15.2.1.1 Creating Microwave Sites ....................................................................................................... 1120
15.2.1.2 Analysing Microwave Sites ..................................................................................................... 1121
15.2.1.3 Creating a Microwave Link ..................................................................................................... 1126
15.2.1.4 Modifying Microwave Sites and Links Directly on the Map..................................................... 1132
15.2.2 Creating a Microwave Passive Repeater ..................................................................................... 1132
15.2.2.1 Placing a Passive Microwave Repeater on the Map Using the Mouse .................................. 1132
15.2.2.2 Creating Several Microwave Passive Repeaters.................................................................... 1133
15.2.2.3 Defining the Properties of a Passive Microwave Repeater..................................................... 1133
15.2.3 Multi-hop Links ............................................................................................................................. 1134
15.2.3.1 Creating a Multi-hop Link........................................................................................................ 1134
15.2.3.2 Managing Multi-hop Link Properties ....................................................................................... 1135
15.2.3.3 Setting all Microwave Links of a Multi-Hop Link as Active...................................................... 1135
15.2.3.4 Managing Multi-hop Links and Microwave Links Mapping Globally ....................................... 1136
15.2.3.5 Graphically Adding a Microwave Link to a Multi-hop Link ...................................................... 1136
15.2.3.6 Deleting a Multi-hop Link ........................................................................................................ 1136
15.2.4 Point-to-Multipoint Links ............................................................................................................... 1137
15.2.4.1 Creating a Point-to-Multipoint Link.......................................................................................... 1137
15.2.4.2 Point-to-Multipoint Link Properties.......................................................................................... 1138
15.2.4.3 Setting all Microwave Links of a Point-to-Multipoint Link as Active ........................................ 1138
15.2.4.4 Mapping of Microwave Links to Point-to-Multipoint Links Globally ......................................... 1139
15.2.4.5 Adding a Microwave Link to a Point-to-Multipoint Link ........................................................... 1139
15.2.4.6 Graphically Adding a Microwave Link to a Point-to-Multipoint Link ........................................ 1139
15.2.4.7 Deleting a Microwave Link from a Point-to-Multipoint Link ..................................................... 1139
15.2.4.8 Deleting a Point-to-Multipoint Link .......................................................................................... 1140
15.2.4.9 Adjusting the Antenna of the Point-to-Multipoint Hub ............................................................. 1140
15.2.4.10 Adjusting the Antenna of the Point-to-Multipoint Hub Using the Mouse ................................. 1140
15.3 Microwave Link Analysis ....................................................................................................... 1141
15.3.1 Restricting the Number of Sites and Microwave Links Studied .................................................... 1141
15.3.1.1 Setting a Computation Zone ................................................................................................... 1141
15.3.1.2 Setting a Focus Zone.............................................................................................................. 1142

Atoll User Manual
15.3.2 Setting a Microwave Link as Active...............................................................................................1142

15.3.3 Microwave Link Profile Analysis....................................................................................................1143
15.3.3.1 Viewing a Microwave Link Profile ............................................................................................1143
15.3.3.2 Studying Microwave Link Clearance .......................................................................................1144
15.3.3.3 Managing Microwave Link Profile Display Options .................................................................1144
15.3.3.4 Zooming In on the Profile ........................................................................................................1144
15.3.3.5 Printing a Microwave Link Profile ............................................................................................1145
15.3.3.6 Displaying Microwave Link Clearance Values Along the Profile .............................................1145
15.3.3.7 Modifying Microwave Link Profile Values ................................................................................1146
15.3.3.8 Optimising Microwave Link Antenna Heights ..........................................................................1146
15.3.3.9 Studying Reflections Along Microwave Link Profile ................................................................1148
15.3.3.10 Studying Space Diversity Effects on Microwave Links ............................................................1149
15.3.4 Microwave Link Reliability Analysis...............................................................................................1149
15.3.4.1 Analysing Microwave Link Performance Objectives................................................................1150
15.3.4.2 End-to-End Reliability Level ....................................................................................................1154
15.3.5 Interference Analysis and Frequency Planning.............................................................................1154
15.3.5.1 Interference Analysis ...............................................................................................................1154
15.3.5.2 Frequency Planning ................................................................................................................1157
Index ................................................................................................................................................... 1161

Chapter 1
The Working Environment
Atoll
RF Planning and Optimisation Software
Chapter 1: The Working Environment
1 The Working Environment

The Atoll working environment provides a comprehensive and integrated set of tools and features that allow you to create
and define your microwave or radio-planning project in a single application. You can save the entire project as a single file,
or you can link your project to external files.
Atoll uses standard Windows interface elements, with the ability to have several document windows open at the same
time, support for drag-and-drop, context menus, and support for standard Windows shortcuts, for example, for cutting and
pasting. Atoll also allows you to undo recent changes to your document. Atoll offers the standard Windows Print func-
tionality, with added functionality allowing you to print either the entire map window, parts of it, or only certain objects. Atoll
also provides other tools, such as a search tool to locate either a site, a point on the map, or a vector.
The Explorer window plays a central role in Atoll. The Explorer window contains most of the objects in a document
arranged in folders.
Using the Explorer window, you can manage all objects in the Atoll document: sites, transmitters, calculations, etc., as
well as geographic data such as the Digital Terrain Model (DTM), traffic maps, and clutter classes. You can, for example,
define various studies or configure the parameters or display of data objects.
The content of the folders in the Explorer window can be displayed in tables, allowing you to manage large amounts of
data. You can sort and filter the data in a table, or change how the data is displayed. You can also use the table feature
to enter large amounts of information by cutting and pasting the information from any Windows spreadsheet into the table.
The map is the working area for your document and Atoll provides many features for working with the map. You can
change the view by moving or zooming in or out and you can choose which objects are displayed and how they are
displayed. You can also export the current display definition, or configuration, to use it in other documents.
This chapter explains the following topics:
• "The Atoll Work Area" on page 25
• "The Explorer Window" on page 27
• "Working with Objects" on page 29
• "Printing in Atoll" on page 60
• "Working with Maps" on page 38
• "Working with Data Tables" on page 50
• "Grouping, Sorting, and Filtering Data" on page 64
• "Tips and Tricks" on page 80.
1.1 The Atoll Work Area

The Atoll work area, shown in Figure 1.1 on page 26, consists of the main window where the map window and data tables
and reports are displayed and the Explorer window. The Explorer window contains the data and objects of a document,
arranged in folders. It is presented in detail in "The Explorer Window" on page 27.
Atoll offers a variety of tools to help you plan a network. The tools open in separate windows, some of which can be docked
into the work area or floated over the work area (see Figure 1.1 on page 26).

Atoll User Manual
Toolbar
Document window (map)
Workspace
Explorer window
(docked)
Panoramic window
(floating)
Point Analysis window

(docked)
Figure 1.1: Atoll user interface
1.1.1 Working with Document Windows

When you have one Atoll document open, you can have several document windows open at the same time. You can
resize, maximise, and minimise document windows as you can in any Windows-based application.
As well, you can tile document windows, in order to display all of them at the same time, or cascade them, in order to
display the title bar of each document window.
To tile document windows:
• Select Window > Tile.
To cascade document windows:
• Select Window > Cascade.
1.1.2 Docking or Floating an Atoll Window

Only document windows are part of an individual Atoll document. Other windows and tools, such as the Explorer window,
display the content of the active document. They are not part of the individual Atoll document, but part of the working envi-
ronment and, when you switch to a different document, they will display the content of the active document.
You can change how these windows and tools are displayed. You can also choose to remove them from their position and
float them over the Atoll working environment.
To display a window:
• On the View menu, select the name of the window.
To close a window:
• Click the Hide button ( ) in the corner of the window. Depending on the position of the docking window, this
button can be in the upper-left or upper-right corner.
You can change how much room a window takes if it shares a docking area with other windows by maximising or minimis-
ing the window.
To maximise a window in its docking area:
• Click the Maximise button ( ) near the corner of the window. Depending on the position of the window, this
button can be in the upper-left or upper-right corner.
To minimise a window in its docking area:
• Click the Minimise button ( ) near the corner of the window. Depending on the position of the window, this button
can be in the upper-left or upper-right corner.
You can leave a window in its docking area, or you can have it float over the working environment, allowing you to maxim-
ise the amount of area for document windows or other windows.

To float a window:
• Double-click the docking window title bar. The docking window leaves the docking area and floats over the working
environment.
Note: You can move the docking window by clicking the title bar and dragging it. To prevent the
window from docking as you move it, press CTRL as you drag the docking window.
To dock a window:
• To return the window to its previous docked location, double-click the docking window title bar.
Or
• Click the title bar of the docking window and drag the window to a different docking area.
Note: The window positions for docking windows are not associated with the current document;
they remain the same no matter which document you open.
1.2 The Explorer Window

The Explorer window plays a central role in Atoll. The Explorer window contains the data and objects of a document,
arranged in folders. Each object and folder has a context-specific menu that you can access by right-clicking. You can
modify items at the folder level, with changes affecting all items in the folder, or you can access and edit items individually.
As well, most folder contents can also be accessed in a table, allowing you to easily manage large amounts of information.
For information on working with tables, see "Working with Data Tables" on page 50.
In this section, the following are described:
• "Working with the Explorer Window Tabs" on page 27
• "Navigating in the Explorer Window" on page 28
• "Displaying or Hiding Objects on the Map Using the Explorer" on page 28
• "Working with Layers Using the Explorer" on page 28.
1.2.1 Working with the Explorer Window Tabs

The Explorer window has three tabs:
• The Data tab: The Data tab allows you to manage radio data and calculations. Depending on the modules
installed with Atoll, the Data tab has the following folders:
- Sites
- Antennas
- Transmitters
- Predictions
- UMTS Parameters, CDMA2000 Parameters, or GSM/GPRS Parameters
- UMTS Simulations or CDMA2000 Simulations
- Traffic analysis (GSM/GPRS/EDGE projects only)
- Hexagonal design
- Microwave links
- CW Measurements and Test mobile data
• The Geo tab: The Geo tab allows you to manage geographic data. The number of folders depends on the
number and types of geographical data types (vector data, scanned images, etc.) you import or create:
- Clutter classes
- Clutter heights
- Digital Terrain Model
- Population data
- Any other geo data map
- Traffic (GSM/GPRS/EDGE/TDMA, UMTS HSPA, CDMA2000)
• The Modules tab: The Modules tab allows you to manage the propagation models and additional modules. It
contains:
- A Propagation Models folder with the following propagation models:
- Longley-Rice
- Okumura-Hata
- Cost-Hata
- Standard Propagation Model
- ITU 526-5
- ITU 370-7 (Vienna 93)
- ITU 1546
- WLL

Atoll User Manual
- Microwave Propagation Model

- Erceg-Greenstein (SUI)
- The AFP models available in your Atoll installation.
- Any additional module created using the API.
1.2.2 Navigating in the Explorer Window

The Explorer window has three tabs; each tab has objects and folders containing objects.
To move from one tab to another:
• Click the tab at the top of the Explorer window.
A folder on a tab can be opened to allow you to view its contents. Each folder containing at least one object has an Expand
( ) or Contract button ( ) to the left of its name.
To expand a folder to display its contents:
• Click the Expand button ( ) to the left of its name.
1.2.3 Displaying or Hiding Objects on the Map Using the Explorer

You can use the Explorer to display or hide objects on the map. This allows you to hide one type of object so that another
type of object is more plainly visible. For example, you could hide all predictions but one, so that the results of one predic-
tion are more clearly displayed.
Note: Hiding an object affects only its visibility in the map window; it will still be taken into
consideration during calculations.
To hide an object on the map:

1. Select the tab of the Explorer window that contains that object.
2. Clear the check box ( ) immediately to the left of the object name. The check box appears cleared ( ) and the
object is no longer visible on the map.
Note: You can hide the contents of an entire folder by clearing the check box to the left of the
folder name. When the check box of a folder appears greyed ( ), it indicates that the
folder contains both visible and hidden objects.
1.2.4 Working with Layers Using the Explorer

In Atoll, the map is made of objects arranged in layers. The layers on the top (as arranged on the Data and Geo tabs) are
the most visible on the screen and in print. The visibility of the lower layers depends on which layers are above and visible
(see "Displaying or Hiding Objects on the Map Using the Explorer" on page 28) and on the transparency of these layers
(see "Defining the Transparency of Objects and Object Types" on page 35).
To move a layer up or down:
1. Select the tab of the Explorer window that contains that object.
2. Click and drag the object to its new position. As you drag the object, a horizontal black line indicates where the
object will remain when you release the mouse button (see Figure 1.2).

Figure 1.2: Moving a layer
Note: Before you print a map, you should pay attention to the arrangement of the layers. For
more information, see "Printing Recommendations" on page 61.
1.3 Working with Objects

In Atoll, the items found in the Explorer window and displayed on the map are referred to as objects. Most objects in Atoll
belong to an object type. For example, a transmitter is an object of the type transmitter.
Atoll enables you to carry out many operations on objects by clicking the object directly or by right-clicking the object and
selecting the operation from the context menu.
In this section, the following are explained:
• "Using the Object Context Menu" on page 29
• "Modifying Sites and Transmitters Directly on the Map" on page 30
• "Display Properties of Objects" on page 33.
1.3.1 Using the Object Context Menu

In Atoll, an object’s context menu gives you access to commands specific to that object as well as to commands that are
common to most objects. In this section, the following context menu commands common to all objects types are explained:
• Rename: "Renaming an Object" on page 29.
• Delete: "Deleting an Object" on page 29.
• Properties: "Displaying the Properties of an Object" on page 30.
1.3.1.1 Renaming an Object

You can change the name of an object in Atoll.
To rename an object:
1. Right-click the object either in the Explorer window or on the map. The context menu appears.
2. Select Rename from the context menu.
3. Enter the new name and press ENTER to change the name.
Note: In Atoll, objects such as sites or transmitters are named with default prefixes. Individual
objects are distinguished from each other by the number added automatically to the
default prefix. You can change the default prefix for sites, transmitters, and cells by editing
the atoll.ini file. For more information, see the Administrator Manual.
1.3.1.2 Deleting an Object

You can delete objects from either the Explorer window or from the map.
To delete an object:
2. Select Delete from the context menu. The selected object is deleted.

Atoll User Manual
1.3.1.3 Displaying the Properties of an Object

You can modify the properties of an object in the Properties dialogue.
To open the Properties dialogue of a data object:
Tip: When you are selecting data objects on the map, it can be difficult to ensure that the
correct object has been selected. When a site is selected, the site (and its name) is
surrounded by a black frame ( ). When a transmitter is selected, both ends of its icon
have a green point ( ). When there is more than one transmitter or microwave link
with with the same azimuth, clicking the transmitters in the map window opens a context
menu allowing you to select the transmitter you want (see "Selecting One of Several
Transmitters or Microwave Links" on page 30).
2. Select Properties from the context menu. The Properties dialogue appears.
Switching Between Property Dialogues
You can switch between the Properties dialogues of items (transmitters, antennas, sites, services, user profiles, etc.) in
the same folder or subfolder in the Explorer window by using the browse buttons ( ) in the lower-left
corner of each Properties dialogue:
• : jump to the first item in the list
• : jump to the previous item in the list
• : jump to the next item in the list
• : jump to the last item in the list

If you have made any changes to the properties of an item, Atoll prompts you to confirm these changes before switching
to the next Properties dialogue.
You can use this feature, for example, to access the properties of co-site transmitters without closing and reopening the
Properties dialogue. Switching is performed within the lowest subfolder in the hierarchy. For example:
• If transmitters are grouped by site, you can switch only within one site (co-site transmitters).
• If transmitters are grouped by a flag, you can switch only within this group.
• If transmitters are grouped by activity and by a flag, you can switch only within transmitters having the same activity
and the same flag.
The browse buttons are not available:
• When creating a new item.
• When opening the an item’s Properties dialogue by double-clicking its record in a table.
• For repeater properties.
• For propagation model properties.
The Display tab of the Properties dialogue is explained in the following section.
1.3.2 Modifying Sites and Transmitters Directly on the Map

In a complex microwave or radio-planning project, it can be difficult to find the data object in the Data tab, although it might
be visible in the map window. Atoll lets you access the Properties dialogue of sites and transmitters directly from the map.
You can also change the position of the station by dragging it, or by letting Atoll find a higher location for it.
• "Selecting One of Several Transmitters or Microwave Links" on page 30
• "Moving a Site Using the Mouse" on page 31
• "Moving a Site to a Higher Location" on page 31
• "Changing the Azimuth of the Antenna Using the Mouse" on page 32
• "Changing the Position of the Transmitter Relative to the Site" on page 32.
1.3.2.1 Selecting One of Several Transmitters or Microwave Links

If there is more than one transmitter or microwave link with the same azimuth, Atoll enables you to select a specific trans-
mitter or microwave link.

To select one of several transmitter or microwave link with the same azimuth:
1. In the map window, click the transmitters or links. A context menu appears with a list of the transmitters or links
with the same azimuth (see Figure 1.3 and Figure 1.4).
Figure 1.3: Selecting one transmitter
Figure 1.4: Selecting one microwave link
2. Select the transmitter or link from the context menu.

- When you select a transmitter, it appears with a green point at both ends of the icon ( ).
- When you select a microwave link, both ends appear white and the link itself appears outlined ( ).
1.3.2.2 Moving a Site Using the Mouse

You can move a site by editing the coordinates on the General tab of the Site Properties dialogue, or by using the mouse.
To move a site using the mouse:
1. Click and drag the site to the desired position. As you drag the site, the exact coordinates of the pointer’s current
location are visible in the Status bar.
2. Release the site where you would like to place it. By default, Atoll locks the position of a site. When the position
of a site is locked, Atoll asks you to confirm that you want to move the site.
3. Click Yes to confirm.
Tip: While this method allows you to place a site quickly, you can adjust the location more
precisely by editing the coordinates on the General tab of the Site Properties dialogue.
For information on the Site Properties dialogue, see "Site Description" on page 247.
1.3.2.3 Moving a Site to a Higher Location

If you want to improve the location of a site, in terms of reception and transmission, Atoll can find a higher location within
a specified radius from the current location of the site.
To have Atoll move a site to a higher location:
1. Right-click the site in the map window. The context menu appears.
2. Select Move to a Higher Location.
3. In the Move to a Higher Location dialogue, enter the radius of the area in which Atoll should search and click
OK. Atoll moves the site to the highest point within the specified radius.

Atoll User Manual
1.3.2.4 Changing the Azimuth of the Antenna Using the Mouse

In Atoll, you can set the azimuth of a transmitter’s antenna by modifying it on the Transmitter tab of the Transmitter Prop-
erties dialogue, or you can modify it on the map, using the mouse. The azimuth is defined in degrees, with 0° indicating
north.
The precision of the change to the azimuth depends on the distance of the pointer from the transmitter symbol. Moving
the pointer changes the azimuth by:
• 1 degree when the pointer is within a distance of 10 times the size of the transmitter symbol.
• 0.1 degree when the pointer is moved outside this region.
To modify the azimuth of the antenna using the mouse:
1. On the map, click the antenna whose azimuth you want to modify.
2. Move the pointer to the end of the antenna with a green circle ( ). An arc
with an arrow appears under the pointer.
3. Click the green circle and drag it to change the antenna’s azimuth.
The current azimuth of the antenna is displayed in the far left of the status
bar.
4. Release the mouse when you have set the azimuth to the desired angle.
The antenna’s azimuth is modified on the Transmitter tab of the Transmitter
Properties dialogue.
You can also modify the azimuth on the map for all the antennas on a base station using the mouse.
To modify the azimuth of all the antennas on a base station using the mouse:
1. On the map, click one of the antennas whose azimuth you want to modify.
2. Move the pointer to the end of the antenna with a green circle ( ). An arc
with an arrow appears under the pointer.
3. Hold CTRL and, on the map, click the green circle and drag it to change the
antenna’s azimuth.
The current azimuth of the antenna is displayed in the far left of the status
bar.
4. Release the mouse when you have set the azimuth of the selected antenna
to the desired angle.
The azimuth of the selected antenna is modified on the Transmitter tab of the
Transmitter Properties dialogue. The azimuth of the other antennas on the
base station is offset by the same amount as the azimuth of the selected
antenna.
Note: If you make a mistake when changing the azimuth, you can undo your changes by using
Undo (by selecting Edit > Undo or by pressing CTRL+Z) to undo the changes made.
1.3.2.5 Changing the Position of the Transmitter Relative to the Site

By default, transmitters are placed on the site. However, transmitters are occasionally not located directly on the site, but
a short distance away. In Atoll, you can change the position of the transmitter relative to the site by adjusting the Dx and
Dy parameters on the General Tab of the Transmitter Property dialogue. Dx and Dy are the distance in metres of the
transmitter from the site position. You can also modify the position of the transmitter on the map, using the mouse.
To move a transmitter using the mouse:
1. On the map, click the transmitter you want to move.

2. Move the pointer to the end of the antenna with a green rectangle ( ). A
cross appears under the pointer.
3. Click the green rectangle and drag it to change the transmitter’s position rel-
ative to the site.
The current position (Dx and Dy) of the transmitter is displayed in the far right
of the status bar.
4. Release the mouse when you have moved the selected transmitter to the
desired position.
The position of the selected transmitter is modified on the General tab of the
Transmitter Properties dialogue.
Note: If you make a mistake when changing the position of the transmitter, you can undo your
changes by using Undo (by selecting Edit > Undo or by pressing CTRL+Z) to undo the
changes made.

1.3.3 Display Properties of Objects

In Atoll, most objects, such as sites or transmitters, belong to an object type. How an individual object appears on the map
depends on the settings on the Display tab of the object type’s Properties dialogue. The Display tab is similar for all object
types whose appearance can be configured. Options that are inapplicable for a particular object type are unavailable on
the Display tab of its Properties dialogue (see Figure 1.5).
In this section, the display options are explained, followed by a few examples of how you can use them while working on
your Atoll document (see "Examples of Using the Display Properties of Objects" on page 37).
1.3.3.1 Defining the Display Properties of Objects
Figure 1.5: The Display tab for Sites
When you access the Properties dialogue of an individual object, the Display tab will only show the options applicable to
an individual object (see Figure 1.6).
Figure 1.6: The Display tab for an individual site
To define the display properties of an object type:

1. Right-click the object type folder in the Explorer window. The context menu appears.
3. Select the Display tab. Depending on the object type, the following options are available:
- "Defining the Display Type" on page 34
- "Defining the Transparency of Objects and Object Types" on page 35
- "Defining the Visibility Scale" on page 35
- "Defining the Object Type Label" on page 35
- "Defining the Object Type Tip Text" on page 36
- "Adding an Object Type to the Legend" on page 36
4. Set the display parameters.

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5. Click OK.
Defining the Display Type
Depending on the object selected, you can choose from the following display types: unique, discrete values, value inter-
vals, or automatic.
To change the display type:
1. Access the Display tab of the Properties dialogue as explained in "Display Properties of Objects" on page 33.
2. Select the display type from the Display Type list:
- Unique: defines the same symbol for all objects of this type. By defining a unique symbol for an object type,
objects of different types, for example, sites or transmitters, are immediately identifiable.
i. To modify the appearance of the symbol, click the symbol in the table below. The Symbol Style dialogue
appears.
ii. Modify the symbol as desired.
iii. Click OK to close the Symbol Style dialogue.
- Discrete values: defines the display of each object according to the value of a selected field. This display type
can be used to distinguish objects of the same type by one characteristic. For example, you could use this
display type to distinguish transmitter by antenna type, or to distinguish inactive from active sites.
i. Select the name of the Field by which you want to display the objects.
ii. You can click the Actions button to access the Actions menu. For information on the commands availa-
ble, see "Using the Actions Button" on page 34.
iii. To modify the appearance of a symbol, click the symbol in the table below. The Symbol Style dialogue
appears.
iv. Modify the symbol as desired.
v. Click OK to close the Symbol Style dialogue.
- Value intervals: defines the display of each object according to set ranges of the value of a selected field.
This display type can be used, for example, to distinguish population density, signal strength, or the altitude
of sites.
i. Select the name of the Field by which you want to display the objects.
ii. Define the ranges directly in the table below. For an example, see Figure 1.8 on page 37.
iii. You can click the Actions button to access the Actions menu. For information on the commands availa-
ble, see "Using the Actions Button" on page 34.
iv. To modify the appearance of a symbol, click the symbol in the table. The Symbol Style dialogue appears.
v. Modify the symbol as desired.
vi. Click OK to close the Symbol Style dialogue.
- Automatic: only available for transmitters; Atoll automatically assigns a colour to each transmitter, ensuring
that each transmitter has a different colour than the transmitters surrounding it.
i. Click the symbol in the table below. The Symbol Style dialogue appears.
ii. Modify the symbol as desired.
iii. Click OK to close the Symbol Style dialogue.
Notes:
• When you create a new map object, for example, a new site or a new transmitter, you must
click the Refresh button ( ) for Atoll to assign a colour to newly created object according to
the set display type.
• You can define the default symbol used for sites and how it is displayed by editing an option in
Using the Actions Button
The Actions button on the Display tab of the Properties dialogue allows you to modify the display type as defined in
"Defining the Display Type" on page 34.
To access the Actions menu:
2. Click the Actions button. The Actions menu gives you access to the following commands:
- Select all: Atoll selects all the values in the table.
- Delete: Atoll removes selected value from the table.
- Insert before: When the selected display type is value intervals, Atoll inserts a new threshold in the table
before the threshold selected in the table.

- Insert after: When the selected display type is value intervals, Atoll inserts a new threshold in the table after
the threshold selected in the table.
- Properties: Atoll opens the Display dialogue where you may change the colour and style.
- Shading: Atoll opens the Shading dialogue. When "Value Intervals" is the selected display type, you select
Shading to define the number of value intervals and configure their colour. Enter the upper and lower limits
of the value in the First Break and Last Break boxes respectively, and enter a value in the Interval box.
Define the colour shading by choosing a Start Colour and an End Colour. The value intervals will be deter-
mined by the set values and coloured by a shade going from the set start colour to the set end colour.
When "Discrete Values" is the selected display type, you select Shading to choose a Start Colour and an
End Colour.
- Configuration: Select Import if you want to import an existing display configuration. Select Export if you want
to export the display settings of the current object to a configuration file, so that you can share them with other
users or use them in other documents.
Defining the Transparency of Objects and Object Types
You can change the transparency of some objects, such as predictions, and some object types, such as clutter classes,
to allow objects on lower layers to be visible on the map.
To change the transparency:
2. Move the Transparency slider to the right to make the object or object type more transparent or to the left to make
it less transparent.
Defining the Visibility Scale
You can define a visibility range for object types. An object is visible only if the scale, as displayed on the zoom toolbar, is
within this range. This can be used to, for example, prevent the map from being cluttered with symbols when you are at a
certain scale.
Visibility ranges are taken into account for screen display, and for printing and previewing printing. They do not affect which
objects are considered during calculations.
To define an object visibility range:
2. Enter a Visibility Scale minimum in the between 1: text box.
3. Enter a Visibility Scale maximum in the and 1: text box.
Defining the Object Type Label
For most object types, such as sites and transmitters, you can display information about each object in the form of a label
that is displayed with the object. You can display information from every field in that object type’s data table, including from
fields that you add.
To define a label for an object type:
2. Click the Browse button ( ) beside the Label box. The Field Selection dialogue appears (see Figure 1.7).
Figure 1.7: Defining a label

Atoll User Manual
3. Select the fields which you want to display in the label:

a. To select a field to be displayed in the label for the object type, select the field in the Available Fields list and
click to move it to the Selected Fields list.

b. To remove a field from the list of Group these fields in this order, select the field in the Selected Fields list
and click to remove it.
c. To change the order of the fields, select a field and click or to move it up or down in the list. The objects
will be grouped in the order of the fields in the Selected Fields list, from top to bottom.
4. Click OK to close the Field Selection dialogue and click OK to close the Properties dialogue.
Note: For most object types, you can also display object information in the form of a tool tip that
is only visible when you move the pointer over the object. This option has the advantage
of not filling the map window with text. For more information on tool tips, see "Defining the
Object Type Tip Text" on page 36.
Defining the Object Type Tip Text
For most object types, such as sites and transmitters, you can display information about each object in the form of a tool
tip that is only visible when you move the pointer over the object. You can display information from every field in that object
type’s data table, including from fields that you add.
To define tip text for an object type:
2. Click the Browse button ( ) beside the Tip Text box. The Field Selection dialogue appears (see Figure 1.7).
3. Select the fields which you want to display in the tool tip:
a. To select a field to be displayed in the label for the object type, select the field in the Available Fields list and
click to move it to the Selected Fields list.

b. To remove a field from the list of Group these fields in this order, select the field in the Selected Fields list
and click to remove it.
Note: For most object types, you can also display object information in the form of a label that is
displayed with the object. This option has the advantage of keep object-related
information permanently visible. For more information on tool tips, see "Defining the
Object Type Label" on page 35.
Once you have defined the tool tips, you must activate the tool tip function before they appear.
To activate the tool tip function:
• Click the Display Tips button ( ) on the toolbar. Tool tips will now appear when the pointer is over the object.
If you have more than one coverage prediction displayed on the map, the tool tips display the tip text for all the coverage
predictions available at a pixel up to a maximum of 30 lines. You can change this default maximum through an option in
Adding an Object Type to the Legend
You can display the information defined by the display type (see "Defining the Display Type" on page 34) in your Atoll
document’s legend. Only visible objects appear in the Legend window. For information on displaying or hiding objects,
see "Displaying or Hiding Objects on the Map Using the Explorer" on page 28.
In Figure 1.8, on the Display tab of a signal level prediction, the intervals defined are:
• Signal level >= -65 red
• -65 > Signal level >= -105 shading from red to blue (9 intervals)
• Signal level < -105 not shown in the coverage.
The entries in the Legend column will appear in the Legend window.

Figure 1.8: Defined thresholds as they will appear in the Legend
With value intervals, you can enter information in the Legend column to be displayed on the legend. If there is no infor-
mation entered in this column, the maximum and minimum values are displayed instead.
2. Check the Add to legend box. The defined display will appear on the legend.
To display the Legend window:
• Select View > Legend. The Legend window appears.
1.3.3.2 Examples of Using the Display Properties of Objects

In this section are the following examples of how display properties of objects can be used:
• "Automatic Display Type - Server Coverage Studies" on page 37
• "Shading - Signal Level Study" on page 37.
Automatic Display Type - Server Coverage Studies
When doing a best server prediction, Atoll calculates, for each pixel on the map, which server is best received. If the
selected display type for transmitters is "Automatic," Atoll colours each pixel on the map according to the colour of the
transmitter that is best received on that pixel. This way, you can identify immediately which transmitter is best received on
each pixel. The following two figures show the results of the same best server area and handover margin study.
In Figure 1.9, the transmitter display type is "Discrete Values," with the site name as the chosen value. The difference in
colour is insufficient to make clear which transmitter is best received on each pixel. In Figure 1.10, the transmitter display
type is "Automatic." Because Atoll ensures that each transmitter has a different colour than the transmitters surrounding
it, the study results are also immediately visible.
Figure 1.9: Value interval display type Figure 1.10: Automatic display type
To display the results of a server coverage study with the transmitters set to the Automatic display type:
1. Right-click the Transmitters folder in the Explorer window. The context menu appears.
3. Select the Display tab.
4. Select "Automatic" as the Display Type.
5. Click OK.
6. Click the Refresh button ( ) to update the display of the study results.
Shading - Signal Level Study
Atoll displays the results of a signal level study as value intervals. On the map, these value intervals appear as differences
of shading. You can use the Shading command to define the appearance of these value intervals to make the results

Atoll User Manual
easier to read or more relevant to your needs. For example, you can change the range of data displayed, the interval
between each break, or you can change the colours to make the intervals more visible.
In this example, Figure 1.11 shows the results of the best signal level plot from -60 dBm to -105 dBm. However, if you are
more interested in reception from -80 dBm to -105 dBm, you can change the shading to display only those values. The
result is visible in Figure 1.12.
Figure 1.11: Shading from -60 dBm to -105 dBm Figure 1.12: Shading from -80 dBm to -105 dBm
To change how the results of a signal level study are displayed:

1. Expand the Predictions folder in the Explorer window and right-click the signal level study. The context menu
appears.
3. Select the Display tab.
4. Click Actions to display the menu and select Shading. The Shading dialogue appears.
5. Change the value of the First Break to "-80". Leave the value of the Last Break at "-105."
6. Click OK to close the Shading dialogue.
7. Click OK to close the Properties dialogue and apply your changes.
1.4 Working with Maps

Atoll has the following functions to help you work with maps:
• "Changing the Map Scale" on page 38
• "Moving the Map in the Document Window" on page 39
• "Using the Panoramic Window" on page 39
• "Centring the Map Window on an Object" on page 40
• "Measuring Distances on the Map" on page 40
• "Displaying Rulers Around the Map" on page 40
• "Displaying the Map Legend" on page 41
• "Using Zones in the Map Window" on page 41
• "Exporting a Map" on page 48
• "Copying a Map to Another Application" on page 48.
• "Map Window Pointers" on page 49.
1.4.1 Changing the Map Scale

You can change the scale of the map by zooming in or out, by zooming in on a specific area of the map, or by choosing a
scale.
Atoll also allows you to define a zoom range outside of which certain objects are not displayed (see "Defining the Visibility
Scale" on page 35).
1.4.1.1 Zooming In and Out

Atoll offers several tools for zooming in and out on the map. When you zoom in or out on the map, you do so based on
the position of the cursor on the map.
To zoom in on the map:
1. Click the Zoom icon ( ) on the Zoom toolbar (or press CTRL+Q).
2. Click the map where you want to zoom in.

Note: You can also zoom in by pressing CTRL+A, by selecting Zoom In from the View menu, or
by holding down the CTRL key and rotating the mouse wheel button forward.
To zoom out on the map:
1. Click the Zoom icon ( ) on the Zoom toolbar (or press CTRL+Q).
2. Right-click the map where you want to zoom out.
Note: You can also zoom out by pressing CTRL+R, by selecting Zoom Out from the View
menu, or holding down the CTRL key and rotating the mouse wheel button backward.
1.4.1.2 Zooming In on a Specific Area

To zoom in on a specific area of the map:
1. Click the Zoom Area icon ( ) on the Zoom toolbar (or press CTRL+W).
2. Click in the map on one of the four corners of the area you want to select.
3. Drag to the opposite corner. When you release the mouse button, Atoll zooms in on the selected area.
1.4.1.3 Choosing a Scale

To choose a scale:
1. Click the arrow next to the scale box ( ) on the Zoom toolbar.
2. Select the scale from the list.
If the scale value you want is not in the list:
1. Click in the scale box ( ) on the Zoom toolbar.

2. Enter the desired scale.
3. Press ENTER. Atoll zooms the map to the entered scale.
1.4.1.4 Changing Between Previous Zoom Levels

Atoll saves the last five zoom levels, allowing you to move quickly between previous zoom levels and zoomed areas.
To move between zoom levels:
• Click the Previous Zoom button ( ) to return to a zoom level you have already used.
• Once you have returned to a previous zoom level, click the Next Zoom button ( ) to return to the latest zoom
level.
1.4.2 Moving the Map in the Document Window

You can move the map in the document window using the mouse.
To move the map in the document window:
1. Click the Move Map Window button ( ) on the Zoom toolbar.

2. Move the pointer over the map and drag the map in the desired direction.
1.4.3 Using the Panoramic Window

The Panoramic window displays the entire map with all of the imported geographic data. A dark rectangle indicates what
part of the geographic data is presently displayed in a document window, helping you situate the displayed area in relation
to the entire map.
You can use the Panoramic window to:
• Zoom in on a specific area of the map
• Resize the displayed map area
• Move around the map.
To zoom in on a specific area of the map:
1. Click in the Panoramic window on one of the four corners of the area you want to zoom in on.
2. Drag to the opposite corner. When you release the mouse button, Atoll zooms in on the selected area.

Atoll User Manual
To resize the displayed map area:

1. Click in the Panoramic window on a corner or border of the zoom area (i.e., the dark rectangle).
2. Drag the border to its new position.
To move around the map:
1. Click in the Panoramic window in the zoom area (i.e., the dark rectangle).
2. Drag the rectangle to its new position.
1.4.4 Centring the Map Window on an Object

You can centre the map on any selected object, for example, a transmitter, a site, or on any zone in the Zones folder on
the Geo tab of the Explorer window. When centring the map window on an object the current scale is kept.
You can select the object in the map window or in the Explorer window.
To the map window on a selected object:
1. Right-click the object in the map window or in the Explorer window.
2. Select Centre in the Map Window from the context menu.
Tip: If you want to quickly find an object, such as a site, on the map, you can select it in the
Explorer window and then select the Centre in the Map Window command.
1.4.5 Measuring Distances on the Map

You can measure distances on the map by using the Distance Measurement tool. The Distance Measurement tool also
gives you the azimuth of a straight line between two points. You can also use the Distance Measurement tool to measure
distance along a line with several points. Atoll will then give you the distance between each point (as you measure), the
azimuth of each segment between two points, and the total distance.
To measure a distance on the map between two points:
1. Click the Distance Measurement button ( ) on the toolbar.

2. Click the first point on the map once.
As you move the pointer away from the first point, Atoll marks the initial position and connects it to the pointer with
a line.
3. Place the pointer over the second point on the map. The status bar displays the following (see Figure 1.13):
- The distance between the two points
- The azimuth between the two points.
To measure the total distance on the map on a line over a series of points:
1. Click the Distance Measurement button ( ) on the toolbar.

2. Click the first point on the map once.
As you move the pointer away from the first point, Atoll marks the initial position and connects it to the pointer with
a line.
3. Click once on the map at each point on the line between the first point and the final point, where you will have to
change direction on the line.
4. When you reach the last point on the line, the status bar displays the following (see Figure 1.13):
- The total distance between the first point and the last point
- The distance between the second-last point and the last point
- The azimuth between the last two points.
Total distance between Azimuth between second-

first and last point last and last point
Distance between second-
last and last point
Figure 1.13: Measurement data in the status bar
1.4.6 Displaying Rulers Around the Map

You can display rulers around the map in the document window.

To display rulers:
1. Select Tools > Options.
2. In the Options dialogue, click the Coordinates tab.
3. Under Display rulers, select where you want the rulers to be displayed in the map window.
4. Click OK.
1.4.7 Displaying the Map Legend

You can display a map legend. The legend will contain the information on the object types that you have added to it. For
information on adding object types to the legend, see "Adding an Object Type to the Legend" on page 36.
To display the legend:
• Select View > Legend.
1.4.8 Using Zones in the Map Window

On the Geo tab of the Explorer window, Atoll provides you with a set of tools known as zones which can be used to define
areas of the map for the following purposes:
• Filtering Zone: The filtering zone is a graphical filter that restricts the objects displayed on the map and on the
Data tab of the Explorer window to the objects inside the filtering zone. It also restricts which objects are used in
calculations such as coverage predictions, etc.
• Computation Zone: The computation zone is used to define which base stations are to be taken into considera-
tion in calculations and the area where Atoll calculates path loss matrices, coverage studies, etc.
• Focus Zone and Hot Spot Zones: With the focus zone and hot spot zones, you can select the areas of coverage
predictions or other calculations on which you want to generate reports and results.
• Printing Zone: The printing zone allows you to define the area to be printed.
• Coverage Export Zone: The coverage export zone is used to define part of the coverage prediction to be
exported as a bitmap.
Important: Zones are taken into account whether or not they are visible. In other words, if you have
drawn a zone, it will be taken into account whether or not its visibility check box in the
Zones folder of the Geo tab in the Explorer window is selected.
For example, if you have filtered the sites using a filtering zone, the sites outside the
filtering zone will not be taken into consideration in coverage predictions, even if you have
cleared the filtering zone’s visibility check box. You will have to delete the zone if you no
longer want to select sites using a filtering zone.

• "Using a Filtering Zone" on page 41
• "Using a Computation Zone" on page 42
• "Using a Focus Zone or Hot Spot Zones" on page 43
• "Using Polygon Zone Editing Tools" on page 44
• "Using a Printing Zone" on page 45
• "Using a Coverage Export Zone" on page 46.
1.4.8.1 Using a Filtering Zone

The filtering zone is a graphical filter that restricts the objects displayed on the map and on the Data tab of the Explorer
window to the objects inside the filtering zone. It also restricts which objects are used in calculations such as coverage
predictions, etc. By limiting the number of sites, you can reduce the time and cost of calculations and make visualisation
of data objects on the map clearer.
The filtering zone is taken into account whether or not it is visible. In other words, if you have drawn a zone, it will be taken
into account whether or not its visibility check box in the Zones folder of the Geo tab in the Explorer window is selected.
You will have to delete the zone if you no longer want to select sites using a filtering zone.
1.4.8.1.1 Creating a Filtering Zone

To create a filtering zone:
1. Click the Geo tab of the Explorer window.
2. Click the Expand button ( ) to the left of Zones folder to expand the folder.
3. Right-click the Filtering Zone folder.
4. From the context menu, select Draw. The pointer changes to the polygon drawing pointer ( ).
5. Click on the map to start drawing the filter polygon. Click each time you change the angle on the border defining
the outside of the polygon.

Atoll User Manual
6. Close the polygon by clicking twice. The data objects outside of the selected zone are filtered out. On the Data tab
of the Explorer window, any folder whose content is affected by the filtering zone appears with a special icon
( ), to indicate that the folder contents have been filtered.
You can also create a filtering zone as follows:
• Existing polygon: You can use any existing polygon on the map as a filtering zone by right-clicking it and
selecting Use as Filtering Zone from the context menu.
• Importing a polygon: If you have a file with an existing polygon, for example, a polygon describing an adminis-
trative area, you can import it and use it as a filtering zone. You can import it by right-clicking the Filtering Zone
folder on the Geo tab and selecting Import from the context menu.
• Fit to Map Window: You can create a filtering zone the size of the map window by selecting Fit to Map Window
from the context menu.
Once you have created a filtering zone, you can use Atoll’s polygon editing tools to edit it. For more information on the
polygon editing tools, see "Using Polygon Zone Editing Tools" on page 44.
Note: You can export the filtering zone as a polygon, so that you can use it in a different Atoll
document, by right-clicking the Filtering Zone folder on the Data tab of the Explorer
window and selecting Export from the context menu.
1.4.8.2 Using a Computation Zone

The computation zone is used to define the area where Atoll carries out calculations. When you create a computation
zone, Atoll carries out the calculation for all base stations that are active, filtered (i.e., that are selected by the current filter
parameters), and whose propagation zone intersects a rectangle containing the computation zone. Therefore, it takes into
consideration base stations inside and base stations outside the computation zone if they have an influence on the compu-
tation zone. In addition, the computation zone defines the area within which the coverage prediction results will be
displayed.
When working with a large network, the computation zone allows you to restrict your studies to the part of the network you
are currently working on. By allowing you to reduce the number of base stations studied, Atoll reduces both the time and
computer resources necessary for calculations. As well, by taking into consideration base stations within the computation
zone and base stations outside the computation zone but which have an influence on the computation zone, Atoll gives
you realistic results for base stations that are close to the border of the computation zone.
If there is no computation zone defined, Atoll makes its calculations on all base stations that are active and filtered and
for the entire extent of the geographical data available.
The computation zone is taken into account whether or not it is visible. In other words, if you have drawn a computation
zone, it will be taken into account whether or not its visibility check box in the Zones folder of the Geo tab in the Explorer
window is selected. You will have to delete the computation zone if you no longer want to define an area for calculations.
1.4.8.2.1 Creating a Computation Zone

To create a computation zone:
1. Click the Geo tab in the Explorer window.
2. Click the Expand button ( ) to expand the Zones folder.
3. Right-click the Computation Zone folder. The context menu appears.
4. Select Draw from the context menu.
5. Draw the computation zone:
a. Click once on the map to start drawing the zone.
b. Click once on the map to define each point on the map where the border of the zone changes direction.
c. Click twice to finish drawing and close the zone.
The computation zone is delimited by a red line.
You can also create a computation zone as follows:

• Existing polygon: You can use any existing polygon on the map as a computation zone by right-clicking it and
selecting Use as Computation Zone from the context menu.
trative area, you can import it and use it as a computation zone. You can import it by right-clicking the Computa-
tion Zone folder on the Geo tab and selecting Import from the context menu.
• Fit to Map Window: You can create a computation zone the size of the map window by selecting Fit to Map
Window from the context menu.
Once you have created a computation zone, you can use Atoll’s polygon editing tools to edit it. For more information on
the polygon editing tools, see"Using Polygon Zone Editing Tools" on page 44.

Note: You can save the computation zone, so that you can use it in a different Atoll document,
in the following ways:
- Saving the computation zone in the user configuration: For information on export-
ing the computation zone in the user configuration, see "Exporting a User Configura-
tion" on page 75.
- Exporting the computation zone: You can export the computation zone by right-
clicking the Computation Zone folder on the Data tab of the Explorer window and
selecting Export from the context menu.
1.4.8.3 Using a Focus Zone or Hot Spot Zones

Using the focus zone and hot spot zones, you can define an area on which statistics can be drawn and on which reports
are made. While you can only have one focus zone, you can define several hot spot zones in addition to the focus zone.
It is important not to confuse the computation zone and the focus and hot spot zones. The computation zone defines the
area where Atoll computes path loss matrices, coverage studies, etc., while the focus and hot spot zones are the areas
taken into consideration when generating reports and results.
Atoll bases the statistics on the area covered by the focus zone; if no focus zone is defined, Atoll will use the computation
zone. However, by using a focus zone for the report, you can display the statistics for a specific number of sites, instead
of displaying statistics for every site that has been calculated.
Atoll takes the focus zone and hot spot zones taken into account whether or not they are visible. In other words, if you
have drawn a focus or hot spot zone, it will be taken into account whether or not its visibility check box in the Zones folder
of the Geo tab in the Explorer window is selected. You will have to delete the zone if you no longer want to define an area
for reports.
1.4.8.3.1 Drawing a Focus Zone or Hot Spot Zones

To define a focus zone or hot spot zone:
3. Right-click the Focus Zone or Hot Spot Zones folder, depending on whether you want to create a focus zone or
a hot spot. The context menu appears.
5. Draw the focus or hot spot zone:
a. Click once on the map to start drawing the zone.
b. Click once on the map to define each point on the map where the border of the zone changes direction.
c. Click twice to finish drawing and close the zone.
A focus zone is delimited by a green line; a hot spot zone is delimited by a heavy black line. If you clear the zone’s
visibility check box in the Zones folder of the Geo tab in the Explorer window, it will no longer be displayed but
will still be taken into account.
You can also create a focus or hot spot zone in one of the following ways:
• Existing polygon: You can use any existing polygon on the map as a focus zone by right-clicking it and selecting
Use as Focus Zone from the context menu.
Note: You can only create a focus zone, and not a hot spot zone, from an existing polygon.
trative area, you can import it and use it as a focus or hot spot zone. You can import it by right-clicking the Focus
Zone or Hot Spot Zones folder on the Geo tab and selecting Import from the context menu. When you import hot
spot zones, you can import the name (in text format) given to each zone as well. Additionally, because you can
have several hot spot zones, you can import more than one polygon into the Hot Spot folder, with each as a sep-
arate hot spot zone.
• Fit to Map Window: You can create a focus or hot spot zone the size of the map window by selecting Fit to Map
Note: You can save the focus zone or hot spot zones to use in a different Atoll document:
- You can save the focus zone in the user configuration. For information on exporting the
focus zone in the user configuration, see "Exporting a User Configuration" on page 75.
- You can right-click the Focus Zone folder or the Hot Spot Zones folder on the Data
tab of the Explorer window and select Export from the context menu.

Atoll User Manual
1.4.8.4 Using Polygon Zone Editing Tools

Atoll provides you with several different ways of editing the computation zone, focus zone, hot spot zones, and filtering
zones. You can edit these zones by editing the points that define them, by combining several polygons, or by deleting parts
of the polygons that make up these zones. When you no longer need the zone, you can delete it from the map.
The computation, and focus and hot spot zone polygons can contain holes. The holes within polygonal areas are differen-
tiated from overlaying polygons by the order of the coordinates of their vertices. The coordinates of the vertices of polyg-
onal areas are in clockwise order, whereas the coordinates of the vertices of holes within polygonal areas are in counter-
clockwise order.
• "Editing Polygon Zones" on page 44
• "Removing a Polygon Zone" on page 45.
1.4.8.4.1 Editing Polygon Zones

You can edit polygon zones in several ways. Before you can edit a polygon zone, you must first put it in editing mode.
To put the polygon zone in editing mode:
3. Right-click the folder containing the polygon zone you want to edit.
4. Select Edit from the context menu. The vector tools on the Vector Edition toolbar are activated.
Tip: You can also activate the vector tools by selecting the polygon zone to edit from the
Vector Edition toolbar list.
You can now edit the polygon zone as explained in the following sections:
• "Editing the Points of a Polygon Zone" on page 44
• "Editing Polygon Zones Using the Toolbar" on page 44
• "Editing Polygon Zones Using the Context Menu" on page 45.
Editing the Points of a Polygon Zone
To edit a point of a polygon zone:

1. Put the polygon zone in editing mode as explained in "Editing Polygon Zones" on page 44.
2. Select the polygon zone. You can now edit it by:
- Moving a point:
i. Position the pointer over the point you want to move. The pointer changes ( ).
ii. Drag the point to its new position.
- Adding a point to the polygon zone:
i. Position the pointer over the polygon zone border where you want to add a point. The pointer changes
( ).
ii. Right-click and select Insert Point from the context menu. A point is added to the polygon zone border at
the position of the pointer.
- Deleting a point from a polygon zone:
i. Position the pointer over the point you want to delete. The pointer changes ( ).
ii. Right-click and select Delete Point from the context menu. The point is deleted.
Editing Polygon Zones Using the Toolbar
In Atoll, you can create complex polygon zones by using the tools on the Vector Edition toolbar. The filtering, computa-
tion, and focus zone polygons can contain holes. The holes within polygonal areas are differentiated from overlaying poly-
gons by the order of the coordinates of their vertices. The coordinates of the vertices of polygonal areas are in clockwise
order, whereas the coordinates of the vertices of holes within polygonal areas are in counter-clockwise order.
To edit a polygon zone using the icons on the Vector Edition toolbar:
1. Put the polygon zone in editing mode as explained in "Editing Polygon Zones" on page 44.
2. Click the contour to edit. The Vector Edition toolbar has the following buttons:
- : To combine several polygon zones:
i. In the Vector Edition toolbar, click the Combine button ( ).

ii. Click once on the map where you want to begin drawing the new polygon zone.
iii. Click each time you change angles on the border defining the outside of the polygon zone.

iv. Double-click to close the polygon zone.

v. Draw more polygon zones if desired. Atoll creates a group of polygons of the selected and new contours.
If polygon zones overlap, Atoll merges them.
- : To delete part of the selected polygon zone:
i. In the Vector Edition toolbar, click the Delete button ( ).

ii. Draw the area you want to delete from the selected polygon zone by clicking once on the map where you
want to begin drawing the area to delete.
iii. Click each time you change angles on the border defining the outside of the area.
iv. Double-click to close the area. Atoll deletes the area from the selected contour.
- : To create a polygon out of the overlapping area of two polygons:
i. In the Vector Edition toolbar, click the Intersection button ( ).

ii. Click once on the map where you want to begin drawing the polygon that will overlap the selected one.
iii. Click each time you change angles on the border defining the outside of the polygon.
iv. Double-click to close the polygon. Atoll creates a new polygon of the overlapping area of the two polygons
and deletes the parts of the polygons that do not overlap.
- : To split the selected polygon into several polygons:
i. In the Vector Edition toolbar, click the Split button ( ).

ii. Click once on the map where you want to begin drawing the polygon that will split the selected one.
iii. Click each time you change angles on the border defining the outside of the polygon.
iv. Double-click to close the polygon. Atoll separates the area covered by the polygon from the selected pol-
ygon and creates a new polygon.
Editing Polygon Zones Using the Context Menu
When you are editing polygon zones, you can access certain commands using the context menu.
To edit a polygon zone using the context menu:
1. Click the polygon zone you want to edit.
2. Right-click the polygon zone to display the context menu and select one of the following:
- Properties: Select Properties to open the Properties dialogue of the selected polygon zone. The Properties
dialogue gives the coordinates of each point that defines the position and shape of the polygon zone.
- Insert Point: Select Insert Point to add a point to the border of the contour at the position of the pointer.
- Move:
i. Select Move from the context menu to move the contour, line, or point on the map.
ii. Move the contour, line, or point.
iii. Click to place the contour, line, or point.
- Quit edition: Select Quit Edition to exit editing mode.
- Delete: Select Delete to remove the selected contour, line, or point from the map.
1.4.8.4.2 Removing a Polygon Zone

When you no longer need a polygon zone, you can remove the zone and redisplay all data objects.
To remove a polygon zone:
3. Right-click the folder containing the zone you want to remove.
4. From the context menu, select Delete Zone. The polygon zone is removed and all document data are now dis-
played.
Tip: You can also delete it by right-clicking its border on the map and selecting Delete from
the context menu.
1.4.8.5 Using a Printing Zone

The printing zone allows you to define the area to be printed. For information on using the printing zone, see "Defining the
Printing Zone" on page 61.

Atoll User Manual
1.4.8.6 Using a Coverage Export Zone

If you want to export part of the coverage prediction as a bitmap, you can define a coverage export zone. After you have
defined a coverage export zone, Atoll offers you the option of exporting only the area covered by the zone if you export
the coverage prediction as a raster image.
To define a coverage export zone:
3. Right-click the Coverage Export Zone folder. The context menu appears.
5. Draw the coverage export zone:
a. Click the point on the map that will be one corner of the rectangle that will define the coverage export zone.
b. Drag to the opposite corner of the rectangle that will define the coverage export zone. When you release the
mouse, the coverage export zone will be created from the rectangle defined by the two corners.
The coverage export zone is displayed as a rectangle with a light purple border. If you clear the coverage export
zone’s visibility check box in the Zones folder of the Geo tab in the Explorer window, it will no longer be displayed
but will still be taken into account.
You can also create a coverage export zone as follows:

• Importing a polygon: If you have a file with an existing polygon, you can import it and use it as a coverage export
zone. You can import it by right-clicking the Coverage Export Zone folder on the Geo tab and selecting Import
from the context menu.
• Fit to Map Window: You can create a coverage export zone the size of the map window by selecting Fit to Map
Once you have created a coverage export zone, you can use Atoll’s polygon editing tools to edit it. For more information
on the polygon editing tools, see "Using Polygon Zone Editing Tools" on page 44.
Note: You can save the coverage export zone so that you can use it in a different Atoll
document in the following ways:
- Saving the coverage export zone in the user configuration: For information on ex-
porting the coverage export zone in the user configuration, see "Exporting a User Con-
figuration" on page 75.
- Exporting the coverage export zone: You can export the coverage export zone by
right-clicking the Coverage Export Zone folder on the Data tab of the Explorer
window and selecting Export from the context menu.
Important: The coverage export zone can only export in raster format. You can not export in raster
format if the coverage prediction was made per transmitter (for example, coverage
predictions with the display type set by transmitter, by a transmitter attribute, by signal
level, by path loss, or by total losses). Only the coverage area of a single transmitter can
be exported in raster format.
1.4.9 Exporting Coverage Prediction Results

In Atoll, you can export the coverage areas of a coverage prediction in raster or vector formats. In raster formats, you can
export in BMP, TIF, ArcView© grid, or Vertical Mapper (GRD and GRC) formats. When exporting in GRD or GRC formats,
Atoll allows you to export files larger than 2 GB. In vector formats, you can export in ArcView©, MapInfo©, or AGD formats.
The file exported can then be imported as a vector or raster object in Atoll or in another application.
When you export a coverage prediction in vector format, the exported zone is delimited by the rectangle encompassing
the coverage. When you export a coverage prediction in vector format, you can export the entire coverage prediction, or
you can export a defined area of the coverage prediction.
All coverage types can be exported, however, you can not export in raster format if the coverage prediction was made per
transmitter (for example, coverage predictions with the display type set by transmitter, by a transmitter attribute, by signal
level, by path loss, or by total losses). In this case, only the coverage area of a single transmitter can be exported in raster
format.
• "Exporting a Coverage Prediction in Vector Format" on page 47
• "Exporting a Coverage Prediction in Raster Format" on page 47.

1.4.9.1 Exporting a Coverage Prediction in Vector Format

To export a coverage prediction in vector format:
1. Select the Data tab in the Explorer window.
2. Click the Expand button ( ) to expand the Predictions folder.
Note: The coverage prediction must be displayed in the map window before it can be exported.
For information on displaying objects in the map window, see "Displaying or Hiding
Objects on the Map Using the Explorer" on page 28.
3. Select Export the Coverage from the context menu. The Save As dialogue appears.
4. In the Save As dialogue, enter the File name and select the vector format from the Save as type list.
If you have chosen to export the prediction coverage in a vector format other than in AGD format:
a. If desired, under Coordinate Systems, change the reference coordinate system for the file being exported.
b. If desired, change the Resolution of the exported coverage. The default resolution is the resolution of the cov-
erage prediction results (as set in the coverage prediction Properties dialogue).
c. If desired, move the Smoothing slider, or enter the percentage in the text box, to define how much Atoll
smooths the exported coverage.
5. Click Save to export the coverage prediction results.
1.4.9.2 Exporting a Coverage Prediction in Raster Format

To export a coverage prediction in raster format:
1. Select the Data tab in the Explorer window.
2. Click the Expand button ( ) to expand the Predictions folder.
Note: The coverage prediction must be displayed in the map window before it can be exported.
For information on displaying objects in the map window, see "Displaying or Hiding
Objects on the Map Using the Explorer" on page 28.
3. You can export the entire coverage prediction, the coverage export zone, or part of the coverage prediction.
To export the entire coverage prediction:
- Right-click the coverage prediction you want to export.

To export the coverage export zone, define the coverage export zone:
a. Click the Geo tab in the Explorer window.

b. Click the Expand button ( ) to expand the Zones folder.
c. Right-click the Coverage Export Zone folder. The context menu appears.
d. Select Draw from the context menu.
e. Draw the coverage export zone by clicking the point on the map that will be one corner of the rectangle that
will define the coverage export zone and dragging to the opposite corner of the rectangle that will define the
coverage export zone. When you release the mouse, the coverage export zone will be created from the rec-
tangle defined by the two corners.
The coverage export zone is displayed as a rectangle with a light purple border. If you clear the coverage ex-
port zone’s visibility check box in the Zones folder of the Geo tab in the Explorer window, it will no longer be
displayed but will still be taken into account.
f. Right-click the coverage prediction you want to export.

To export part of the coverage prediction:
a. Click the Expand button ( ) to expand the coverage prediction.

b. Right-click the part of the coverage prediction you want to export.
4. Select Export the Coverage from the context menu. The Save As dialogue appears.
5. In the Save As dialogue, enter the File name and select the raster format from the Save as type list.
6. Enter the file name and select the type and the path of the file to be exported.
7. Click Save to export the coverage prediction results. The Raster Export dialogue appears.
a. Under Region, select the area to export:
- The Coverage Area of the Prediction Study to export a rectangle containing only the area covered by
the study,
- The Computation Zone to export a rectangle containing the entire computation zone, or

Atoll User Manual
- The Coverage Export Zone to export the rectangle defined by the coverage export zone.
b. If desired, move the Smoothing slider, or enter the percentage in the text box, to define how much Atoll
smooths the exported coverage.
c. Click OK to finish exporting the coverage prediction results.
Notes
• When selecting a coordinate system different than the one initially defined in Atoll, the file is
converted using the selected coordinate system.
• You can not export in raster format if the coverage prediction was made per transmitter (for
example, coverage predictions with the display type set by transmitter, by a transmitter
attribute, by signal level, by path loss, or by total losses). Only the coverage area of a single
transmitter can be exported in raster format.
1.4.10 Exporting a Map

You can export a map as a graphic image.
To export a map as a graphic image:
1. Click the Select an area button ( ) in the zoom toolbar.

2. Define the area to be exported:
a. Click in the map on one of the four corners of the area you want to select.
b. Drag to the opposite corner.
3. Select File > Export Image. The Save As dialogue appears.
4. In the Save as dialogue, select a destination folder, enter a File name, and select a file type from the Save as
type list.
The following file formats are supported: TIF, BIL, BMP, and ArcView Grid (TXT). If you wish to use the exported
file as a digital terrain model, you should select the TIF, BIL, or TXT format. When exporting in BIL format, Atoll
allows you to export files larger than 2 Gb.
5. Click Save. The Exported Image Size dialogue appears.

6. You can define the size of the exported image in one of two ways:
- Scale: If you wish to define the size by scale, select Scale, enter a scale in the text box and a Resolution. If
you wish to export the image with rulers, select Include Rulers.
- Pixel Size: If you wish to define the size by pixel size, select Pixel Size, and enter a pixel size in the text box.
Important: If you wish to use the exported file as a digital terrain model, you must define the size of
the exported image by pixel size. Atoll then creates a geo-reference file for the exported
image.
7. Click OK.
1.4.11 Copying a Map to Another Application

You can copy a selected area of the map into a document created using another application.
To copy a selected area of the map into a document created using another application:
1. Click the Select an area button ( ) in the zoom toolbar.

2. Click in the map on one of the four corners of the area you want to select.
3. Drag to the opposite corner.
4. Select Edit > Copy Image. The Copy Image dialogue appears.
5. Define the resolution of the image in one of the following ways:
- Select Use Screen Resolution
- Select Use Custom Resolution and enter a resolution in metres.
6. Click OK.
7. Open the application into which you want to paste the image.
8. In the new application, select Edit > Paste Special.
9. In the Paste Special dialogue, select Picture (Enhanced Metafile).
Note: You can also select Bitmap to paste the selection without rulers, or Text to paste the
upper left and lower right coordinates of the selection.

10. Click OK. The area of the map, including the rulers, is pasted as an image into the new document.
1.4.12 Map Window Pointers

In Atoll, the pointer appears in different forms according to its function. Each pointer is described below:
Appearance Description Meaning

The zone selection pointer indicates that, on the map, you can define a zone to
Selection arrow print or copy and, in the Panoramic window, you can define the zone to be
displayed on the map. To define a zone, click and drag diagonally.
The polygon drawing pointer indicates you can draw a zone to filter either sites
or transmitters, to draw computation/focus/hot spot/filtering zones, or to draw
Polygon drawing
vector or raster polygons on the map. To draw a polygon, click once to start,
pointer and each time you change angles on the border defining the outside of the
polygon. Close the polygon by clicking twice.
Hand The hand pointer indicates you can move the visible part of the displayed map.
The zoom pointer indicates you can click to zoom in and right-click to zoom out
Zoom tool
at the location of the mouse pointer
The zoom area pointer indicates you can zoom in on an area of the by clicking
Zoom area
and dragging to define the area.
The transmitter pointer indicates you can place a transmitter on the map where
New transmitter you click. You can place more than one station by pressing CTRL as you click
on the map.
The point analysis pointer indicates that you have selected the Point Analysis
Point analysis
tool and have not yet chosen the first point.
The point placed pointer indicates the position of the receiver on the map that is
Point placed
used for the point-to-point analysis. The results are displayed in the CW
(Receiver) Measurements or Point Analysis window.
The pencil pointer indicates you can create a polygonal clutter zone, by clicking
Pencil once to start the polygon, once to create each corner, and by double-clicking to
close the polygon.
The deletion pointer indicates that you can delete a newly created polygonal
Deletion
clutter zone by clicking its border.
The position indicator pointer indicates you can select the border of a polygon.
Position
Right-clicking the polygon border opens a context menu allowing you to add a
indicator point, delete the polygon, or centre the map on the polygon.
The select/create points pointer indicates you can modify the polygon in the
map window. You can add a new point and modify the polygon contour by
Select/create
clicking on one of the edges and dragging. You can move an existing point by
points clicking and dragging an existing point. You can right-click to open a context
menu to delete a point, delete the polygon, or centre the map on the polygon.
Placing a CW
The first CW measurement point pointer indicates you can click a point on the
measurement
map to create the first point of a CW measurement path.
point
Placing points in
The next CW measurement point pointer indicates the first CW measurement
a CW
point has been set and you can now click other points on the map. Double-click
measurement to end the CW measurement path.
path
Microwave link The microwave link pointer indicates you can click a point on the map to create
start the first point of a microwave link. Once you have created the first point, the
End microwave link pointer changes and the next click ends the link.
Multi-hop or The multihop and multipoint pointer indicates you can click once to create the
first point of a multi-hop link or the hub of a point-to-multipoint link. In the case
point-to-
of a multihop link, each subsequent click creates another point in the link. In the
multipoint case of a point-to-multipoint, each subsequent link creates anew point,
microwave link connected to the hub by a link.

Atoll User Manual
Appearance Description Meaning

Rotate hub
antenna of The rotate hub antenna pointer indicates you can click the hub antenna and
point-to- drag it to a new position to change the azimuth of the hub antenna.
multipoint link
The measurement pointer indicates you can click on the map to set the start
Measurements
point of your measurement. As you move the pointer, the distance between the
on the map first point and the pointer is displayed in the status bar.
The terrain section pointer indicates that you can create a terrain section by
clicking once on the map to create the first point and once more to create the
Terrain section
second point. The terrain profile between the two points is displayed in the
Point Analysis window and stored under Terrain Sections in the Geo tab.
1.5 Working with Data Tables

Atoll stores object data (sites, transmitters, repeaters, antennas, UMTS, or CDMA2000 Cells, UMTS or CDMA2000
parameters, microwave links, etc.) in the form of tables, containing all their parameters and characteristics. The data
contained in prediction reports are also stored in the form of tables.
You can add columns to the data table and you can delete certain columns. When you create a new column, you can
create a default value for a field you create. You can also create a list of options (for text fields) from which the user can
choose when filling in the field.
You can filter, sort, and group the data contained in these tables, export the data or import data into the Atoll data tables.
• "Opening a Data Table" on page 50
• "Adding, Deleting, and Editing Data Table Fields" on page 50
• "Editing the Contents of a Table" on page 52
• "Opening an Object’s Record Properties Dialogue from a Table" on page 53
• "Defining the Table Format" on page 53
• "Copying and Pasting in Tables" on page 56
• "Exporting Tables to Text Files" on page 58
• "Importing Tables from Text Files" on page 59
• "Exporting Tables to XML Files" on page 60
• "Importing Tables from XML Files" on page 60.
1.5.1 Opening a Data Table

To open a data table:
1. Click the Data tab in the Explorer window.
2. Right-click the data folder of which you want to display the data table.
3. Select Open Table from the context menu.
1.5.2 Adding, Deleting, and Editing Data Table Fields

The data for each object type is stored in the form of a data table. Every data table in Atoll is created with a default set of
columns, each corresponding to a field. In this section, the following functions are explained:
• "Accessing an Object Type’s Table Fields" on page 50
• "Adding a Field to an Object Type’s Data Table" on page 51
• "Deleting a Field from an Object Type’s Data Table" on page 52
1.5.2.1 Accessing an Object Type’s Table Fields

The fields contained in an object type’s table are defined in a dialogue.
To access an object type’s table fields:
1. In the Explorer window, open the data table as described in "Opening a Data Table" on page 50.
2. Right-click the table in the map window. The context menu appears.
3. Select Table Fields from the context menu. A dialogue appears where you can view the existing fields and add
or delete new ones.
The dialogue displays the following information for each type of data (see Figure 1.14):
- The Name of the field in the database (Name).

- The Name of the field in the ATL file (Legend).
- The Type of the field.
- The maximum Size of the field.

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RF Planning & Optimisation Software

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Atoll 2.8.0 User Manual Release AT280_UM_E0

About the Atoll User Documentation

© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 3

4 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

1 The Working Environment .................................................................................................... 25

© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 5

1.5.6.1 Copying and Pasting a Table Element ........................................................................................56

2 Starting an Atoll Project ...........................................................................................................89

6 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

2.2.1.2 Creating a New Atoll Document from a Template ...................................................................... 90

3 Managing Geographic Data .............................................................................................. 105

© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 7

3.15 Editing Geographic Data .........................................................................................................128

4 Antennas and Equipment.....................................................................................................143

5 Managing Calculations in Atoll ........................................................................................170

8 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

5.1.2.5 Modelling Fixed Receivers........................................................................................................ 174

© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 9

5.7 Defining Calculation Parameters .........................................................................................209

7 GSM/GPRS/EDGE Networks ...........................................................................................245

10 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

7.2.10.7 Analysing a Coverage Prediction.............................................................................................. 286

© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 11

8 The Atoll AFP Module .............................................................................................................411

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8.2.4 The Atoll AFP HSN Tab ................................................................................................................. 423

9 UMTS HSPA Networks ......................................................................................................... 431

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10 Atoll ACP Module........................................................................................................................561

14 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

10.3 Optimising Cell Planning with the ACP ............................................................................ 565

11 CDMA2000 Networks ............................................................................................................. 605

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11.1.10.6 Signal Level Coverage Predictions ...........................................................................................634

16 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

11.4.9 Modelling Shadowing ..................................................................................................................... 721

12 TD-SCDMA Networks ............................................................................................................ 727

© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 17

12.3.1.2 Calculating Required Network Capacity ....................................................................................818

13 WiMAX BWA Networks..........................................................................................................867

18 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

13.2.7.2 Studying Signal Level Coverage............................................................................................... 884

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13.5.8 Smart Antenna Systems .................................................................................................................982

14 LTE Networks ..............................................................................................................................1001

20 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

14.3.5.2 Creating Simulations............................................................................................................... 1083

15 Microwave Link Project Management ..................................................................... 1119

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15.3.2 Setting a Microwave Link as Active...............................................................................................1142

Index ................................................................................................................................................... 1161

22 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited © Forsk 2009

1 The Working Environment

1.1 The Atoll Work Area

© Forsk 2009 Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this document is prohibited 25

Document window (map)

Point Analysis window

Figure 1.1: Atoll user interface

1.1.1 Working with Document Windows

1.1.2 Docking or Floating an Atoll Window

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