constellation user guide v432

7/30/2019 Constellation User Guide v432

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1. Introduction _______________________________________________________________ 62. Constellation launching and ending ___________________________________________ 73. Fast presentation of menus and icons _________________________________________ 11

3.1. File Menu ____________________________________________________________________ 113.1.1. New _____________________________________________________________________________ 113.1.2. Open ____________________________________________________________________________ 113.1.3. Close ____________________________________________________________________________ 113.1.4. Save ____________________________________________________________________________ 113.1.5. Import/New sites ___________________________________________________________________ 113.1.6. Import/Modifications _______________________________________________________________ 113.1.7. Import/Contour ____________________________________________________________________ 113.1.8. Import/Map description _____________________________________________________________ 113.1.9. Export/Modifications _______________________________________________________________ 113.1.10. Export/Contour ____________________________________________________________________ 113.1.11. Export/Map description _____________________________________________________________ 113.1.12. Export/Synthesis ___________________________________________________________________ 113.1.13. Export/NetCop ____________________________________________________________________ 113.1.14. Quit _____________________________________________________________________________ 12

3.2. Display Menu _________________________________________________________________ 123.2.1. Windows/Network description ________________________________________________________ 123.2.2. Windows/Mobility flows ____________________________________________________________ 123.2.3. Windows/Modifications _____________________________________________________________ 123.2.4. Windows/Layer manager ____________________________________________________________ 123.2.5. Windows/Properties ________________________________________________________________ 123.2.6. Windows\Logs ____________________________________________________________________ 123.2.7. Windows\ALL ____________________________________________________________________ 123.2.8. Contours _________________________________________________________________________ 12

3.3. Tools Menu ___________________________________________________________________ 123.3.1. Search ___________________________________________________________________________ 123.3.2. Color ____________________________________________________________________________ 123.3.3. Map manager _____________________________________________________________________ 123.3.4. Load map ________________________________________________________________________ 123.3.5. Maps Path ________________________________________________________________________ 133.3.6. Working Folder ____________________________________________________________________ 133.3.7. Operations scheduler ________________________________________________________________ 133.3.8. Scheduler ________________________________________________________________________ 133.3.9. 2G Pagings calculator _______________________________________________________________ 13

3.4. Optimization Menu ____________________________________________________________ 133.4.1. Automatic optimization _____________________________________________________________ 133.4.2. Add LA __________________________________________________________________________ 133.4.3. New site _________________________________________________________________________ 133.4.4. Cells evolution ____________________________________________________________________ 13

3.5. Help Menu ___________________________________________________________________ 133.5.1. User Manual ______________________________________________________________________ 133.5.2. About Constellation ________________________________________________________________ 13

3.6. Zoom and movement button _____________________________________________________ 133.6.1. Selection _________________________________________________________________________ 133.6.2. Fitted zoom _______________________________________________________________________ 143.6.3. Move ____________________________________________________________________________ 143.6.4. Zoom in __________________________________________________________________________ 143.6.5. Zoom out _________________________________________________________________________ 143.6.6. Areas selection ____________________________________________________________________ 14

4. Manual edition of a network ________________________________________________ 15

User guide TORINO (Constellation G4R3) FT/OLNC/RD/RESA/PEAK/12.115/FV 2


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4.1. Edition of the xml file __________________________________________________________ 154.2. Creation of the input text files ___________________________________________________ 15

5. Files handling ____________________________________________________________ 175.1. Create a new empty network ____________________________________________________ 175.2. Open a network _______________________________________________________________ 17

5.2.1. How to open a network ______________________________________________________________ 175.2.2. Error files ________________________________________________________________________ 17

5.3. Save a network ________________________________________________________________ 185.4. Close a network _______________________________________________________________ 185.5. Quit constellation ______________________________________________________________ 18

6. Visualisation possibilities ___________________________________________________ 196.1. Search an equipment ___________________________________________________________ 196.2. Color modifications ____________________________________________________________ 196.3. Add a LA _____________________________________________________________________ 20

7. Information about displays __________________________________________________ 227.1. Windows/Network description ___________________________________________________ 227.2. Windows/Mobility flows ________________________________________________________ 227.3. Windows/Modifications _________________________________________________________ 237.4. Windows/Layer manager _______________________________________________________ 25

7.4.1. Simple Tab _______________________________________________________________________ 257.4.2. Advanced tab _____________________________________________________________________ 317.4.3. Flows tab _________________________________________________________________________ 327.4.4. Display consistency ________________________________________________________________ 32

7.5. Windows/Properties ____________________________________________________________ 327.5.1. General __________________________________________________________________________ 327.5.2. Controller properties and global traffic __________________________________________________ 347.5.3. CS and PS traffics __________________________________________________________________ 34

7.6. Windows/Logs ________________________________________________________________ 347.7. Zoom and movement button _____________________________________________________ 36

7.7.1. Fitted zoom _______________________________________________________________________ 367.7.2. Move ____________________________________________________________________________ 367.7.3. Zoom in __________________________________________________________________________ 367.7.4. Zoom out _________________________________________________________________________ 377.7.5. Areas selection ____________________________________________________________________ 38

8. Optimization _____________________________________________________________ 408.1. Interactive modification of the network ____________________________________________ 40

8.1.1. LA and Controller modification for a single site __________________________________________ 408.1.2. LA and Controller modification for several sites __________________________________________ 428.1.3. Frozen sites _______________________________________________________________________ 438.1.4. Freezing multiple sites ______________________________________________________________ 438.1.5. New sites _________________________________________________________________________ 458.1.6. New sites connections _______________________________________________________________ 468.1.7. New sites validation/modification _____________________________________________________ 478.1.8. Adding a controller _________________________________________________________________ 488.1.9.

Modify the connected MSC or MGW for a controller ______________________________________ 49

8.1.10. LA modification of a whole controller __________________________________________________ 498.1.11. LA modification of a whole LA _______________________________________________________ 50



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8.2. Automatic optimization _________________________________________________________ 508.2.1. Optimization of the whole network ____________________________________________________ 518.2.2. Optimisation parameters _____________________________________________________________ 518.2.3. Custom optimisation criteria __________________________________________________________ 528.2.4. Advanced operation limits ___________________________________________________________ 528.2.5. Launching the optimisation ___________________________________________________________ 528.2.6. Optimization of a part of the network ___________________________________________________ 54

8.3. Additional functionalities for optimization _________________________________________ 548.3.1. Optimization of the modifications sequence ______________________________________________ 548.3.2. Export modifications ________________________________________________________________ 558.3.3. Import new sites ___________________________________________________________________ 568.3.4. Import modifications ________________________________________________________________ 568.3.5. Export synthesis ___________________________________________________________________ 568.3.6. Cells evolution ____________________________________________________________________ 56

9. Others functionalities ______________________________________________________ 589.1. Contours management __________________________________________________________ 58

9.1.1. Create a contour ___________________________________________________________________ 589.1.2. Change properties of a contour ________________________________________________________ 599.1.3. Delete a contour ___________________________________________________________________ 599.1.4. Hide a contour _____________________________________________________________________ 599.1.5. Export a contour ___________________________________________________________________ 609.1.6. Import a contour ___________________________________________________________________ 619.1.7. Optimize sites contour ______________________________________________________________ 629.1.8. Freeze all contour sites ______________________________________________________________ 63

9.2. Freezing a part of the network ___________________________________________________ 639.2.1. Freeze a site ______________________________________________________________________ 639.2.2. Unfreeze a site ____________________________________________________________________ 639.2.3. Freeze a contour's sites ______________________________________________________________ 639.2.4. Unfreeze a contour's sites ____________________________________________________________ 63

9.3. Using maps ___________________________________________________________________ 639.3.1. Import map description ______________________________________________________________ 639.3.2. Export map description ______________________________________________________________ 649.3.3. Maps manager _____________________________________________________________________ 65

9.4. Working with NetCop __________________________________________________________ 669.4.1. Export NetCop ____________________________________________________________________ 669.4.2. Import NetCop ____________________________________________________________________ 67

9.5. Predefined controller configurations and call profiles ________________________________ 679.5.1. Controller configuration file __________________________________________________________ 679.5.2. Call profile file ____________________________________________________________________ 689.5.3. Controller thresholds and predefined configurations, call profiles _____________________________ 689.5.4.

Existing controllers and model selection ________________________________________________ 68

9.6. Network creation wizard ________________________________________________________ 68

9.6.1. Creating a new sequence _____________________________________________________________ 689.6.2. Modifying an existing sequence _______________________________________________________ 699.6.3. Launching a sequence _______________________________________________________________ 69

10. Scheduler ________________________________________________________________ 7010.1. Add a scenario in the scheduler ________________________________________________ 7010.2. Create a scenario ____________________________________________________________ 7110.3. Export a scenario ____________________________________________________________ 7110.4. Import a scenario ____________________________________________________________ 7110.5. 2G Pagings calculator ________________________________________________________ 71



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11. System Requirement _______________________________________________________ 7312. Appendix ________________________________________________________________ 74

12.1. Appendix 1 _________________________________________________________________ 7412.2. Appendix 2 _________________________________________________________________ 7712.3. Deprecated files______________________________________________________________ 79

12.3.1. Format controller thresholds __________________________________________________________ 79



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1. IntroductionConstellation software is meant to optimize the access network architecture and the location areas. The

optimization consists in reducing the amount of LAU signalization for 2G and 3G networks, balancing the

pagings traffic on location areas and reducing inter-controllers handovers. Thus, Constellation software helps

operators to manage their location areas (location area design, reduction of LA, adding of LA, pagingsbalancing). The data part of the network is supervised at the same time (SGSN and routing areas).

Less LAU in the network allows a better use of resources (MSC, SDCCH in 2G, transmission power in 3G).

Moreover, usually, LAU reducing leads to a diminution of difficult handovers (like HO inter-MSC or HO

inter-BSC). So communications quality can also be improved by this optimization.

To optimize the network, Constellation provides interactive or automatic modification of 2G or 3G access

networks architecture and assignments to location areas.

For interactive optimization, the user is helped in his choices thanks to automatic update of various

evaluation metrics performed by Constellation.

For automatic optimization, the user indicates constraints like the maximum number of operations allowed,

the maximum number of sites per controller (BSC or RNC) and the maximum number of pagings by location

areas. Then, if possible, Constellation proposes a solution respecting the constraints and reducing the LAU.This guide describes and explains all the functionalities proposed by Constellation G4R2C2.



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2. Constellation launching and endingAfter the starting, the window shown on Figure 1 is displayed.

Figure 1: Display at the software launching

Many information can be imported in Constellation:

The set of sites 2G and/or 3G The set of MSC 2G and/or 3G and/or 2G/3G The set of controllers 2G and/or 3G The set of cells 2G and/or 3G The set of location areas 2G and/or 3G The set of SGSN 2G and/or 3G The set of routing areas 2G and/or 3G Links-Traffic between sites and controllers HO information (HO traffic between cells) Pagings and LAU information Controllers thresholds Location areas thresholds MSC thresholds Background maps Modifications (performed on the network during previous optimization) Frozen equipments Areas colors Contours New sites

All these data are described in text files (.txt or .xml files).



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To close Constellation software, user can select "Quit" on "File" menu. A confirmation is requested before

the effective close of Constellation.


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Figure 2: Main view of Constellation

User guide TORINO (Constellation G4R3) FT/OLNC/RD/RESA/PEAK/12.115


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User guide TORINO (Constellation G4R3) FT/OLNC/RD/RESA/PEAK/12.115


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3. Fast presentation of menus and icons3.1.File Menu

3.1.1. NewThe submenu "New" (keyboard shortcut Ctrl+N) allows the user to create a new empty network (5.1Create a

new empty network).

3.1.2. OpenThe submenu "Open" (keyboard shortcut Ctrl+O) allows the user opens an XML file. This file gives the

location of all the files needed to describe the network (cf. 5.2Open a network).

3.1.3. CloseThe submenu "Close" allows the user to close a network previously opened (cf. 5.4Close a network).

3.1.4. SaveThis submenu "Save" (keyboard shortcut Ctrl+S) allows the user to save the network state at a certain point

(initial network as well as modifications and Layer manager configuration) in an .xml file (cf. 5.3Save a

network).

3.1.5. Import/New sitesThis submenu allows the user to import planified sites on the network (8.3.3Import new sites).

3.1.6. Import/ModificationsThis submenu allows the user to import a list of modifications of the network (cf. 8.3.4Import

modifications).

3.1.7. Import/ContourThis submenu allows the user to import contours previously created (cf. 9.1.6Import a contour).

3.1.8. Import/Map descriptionThe submenu allows the user to import a background map (cf. 9.3.1Import map).

3.1.9. Export/ModificationsThis submenu allows the user to save modifications performed on the initial network (cf. 8.3.1Optimization

of the modifications sequence).

3.1.10.Export/ContourThis submenu allows the user to export contours (cf. 9.1.5Export a contour).

3.1.11.Export/Map descriptionThe submenu allows the user to export a background map (cf. 9.3.2Export map).

3.1.12.Export/SynthesisA synthesis of the current network can be exported by this submenu (cf. 8.3.5Export synthesis).

3.1.13.Export/NetCopThe submenu allows user to export a network which is compatible with the NetCop software

(cf. 9.4.1Export NetCop).



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3.1.14.QuitThe user can quit the software by this submenu (cf. Erreur ! Source du renvoi introuvable.).

3.2.Display Menu3.2.1. Windows/Network description

All the equipments from MSC to sites are listed. Location areas are also listed under each MSC

(cf. 7.1Windows/Network description).

3.2.2. Windows/Mobility flowsEvolutions of mobility flows before and after optimization are displayed in this window

(cf. 7.2Windows/Mobility flows).

3.2.3. Windows/ModificationsAll the modifications performed on the initial network are listed in this window

(cf. 7.3Windows/Modifications).

3.2.4. Windows/Layer managerDisplayed data are managed from this window (cf. 7.4Windows/Layer manager).

3.2.5. Windows/PropertiesThis window displays the properties of the equipment chosen in the "Network description" window

(cf. 7.5Windows/Properties).

3.2.6. Windows\LogsThe calculation tab is filled when a file is opened (cf. 7.6Windows/Logs)

3.2.7. Windows\ALLThis submenu allows user to hide/show Constellation windows

3.2.8. ContoursThis menu is available if there is almost one created contour. It allows user to display or hide the selected

contour (cf. 9.1.4Hide a contour).

3.3.Tools Menu3.3.1. Search

User can search an equipment of the network from its name, its code or even a part of it (cf. 6.1Search an

equipment).

3.3.2. ColorColors of controllers, location areas, routing areas, MSC/MSS, MGW, SGSN and borders can be modified

by this menu (cf. 6.2Color modifications).

3.3.3. Map managerUser can modify some properties of background map as name, opacity and layer level (cf. 9.3.3Maps

manager).

3.3.4. Load map



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User can import and manage background maps (cf. 9.3.1Import map).

3.3.5. Maps PathUser can define a default background map path with this tool.

3.3.6. Working FolderUser can modify the working folder (default path when opening or saving files) by this menu.

3.3.7. Operations schedulerConstellation can provide the best operations sequence. The solution gives the order which maximize the

network quality all along the operations execution (cf. 8.3.1Optimization of the modifications sequence).

3.3.8. SchedulerA scheduler of optimizations is available in Constellation. This functionality allows the sequential launch of

multiple optimizations (cf.10Scheduler).

3.3.9. 2G Pagings calculatorThis submenu allows the user to calculate the maximum capacity of LA (cf. 10.52G Pagings calculator).

3.4.Optimization Menu3.4.1. Automatic optimization

Constellation provides efficient heuristics to automatically optimize the network (cf. 8.2 Automatic

optimization).

3.4.2. Add LAUser can add a location area within an existing MSC/MSS (cf. 6.3Add a LA).

3.4.3. New siteUser can use this submenu to add a new site "Add Site" (cf. 8.1.5New sites) and select the method used to

connect new sites to the network with the items under "Attaching" (cf8.1.6New sites connections).

3.4.4. Cells evolutionUser can see after an optimization every cells flows evolution (cf. 8.3.6Cells evolution).

3.5.Help Menu3.5.1. User Manual

User can access to this manual (keyboard shortcut F1).

3.5.2. About ConstellationUser can see version information and when the compilation was performed (keyboard shortcut Ctrl+A).

3.6.Zoom and movement button3.6.1. Selection



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This button switches user in selection mode. Then user can select a site and modify it.

3.6.2. Fitted zoomThe initial display (all the network) is directly obtained after a left-click on this button (cf. 7.7.1Fitted zoom).

3.6.3.

MoveThis button allows the user to shift the display (cf. 7.7.2Move).

3.6.4. Zoom inWith this button, the user can zoom in a selected area (cf. 7.7.3Zoom in).

3.6.5. Zoom outAfter a left-click on the "zoom-out" button, a zoom-out is performed on the current display (cf. 7.7.4Zoom

out).

3.6.6. Areas selectionWith this button, the user can select an area (cf. 7.7.5Areas selection).



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4. Manual edition of a network4.1.Edition of the xml file

The central part of a network is an xml file. This file gives the location of all the files needed to describe the

network. To know in detail which tags are mandatory to create a xml file and how to create the completenetwork, see in part 4.2Creation of the input text files, and for complete detail about how to create input text

files see in part 12Appendix.

Example of xml file opened by Constellation

Reseau_PIM_2G/NoeudCoeurVoix.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/NoeudCoeurData.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/ZoneDeLocalisationVoix.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/ZoneDeLocalisationData.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/Controleur.txtReseau_PIM_2G/SiteRadio.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/Cellule.txtReseau_PIM_2G/LienSiteRaccordement.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/InfoLAC.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/InfoRAC.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/InfoTraficCellule.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/InfoHO.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/SeuilsControleur.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/SeuilsZoneLA.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/SeuilsNoeudCoeurVoix.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/SeuilsSuperviseur.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/Private/Operations.xml

Reseau_PIM_2G/Private/Couleur.txt

Reseau_PIM_2G/Private/EquipGeles.txt

4.2.Creation of the input text filesFor text files, the used separator is the tabulation.

The first line of each file is ignored. Therefore, the fields name is not important. However, the quantity and

the order of the fields must be respected.

The files describing the network architecture and the traffic correspond to the following tags.

Content Xml tag Mandatory

MSC NoeudCoeurVoix Yes (*)MSS MSCS No

MGW MGW No

Location areas ZoneDeLocalisationVoix Yes

Controller Controleur Yes

Radio sites SiteRadio Yes

Cells Cellule Yes

Links LienTraficSite Yes

Traffic on Location areas (LAU and pagings) InfoLAC No

Traffic on Location areas (LAU and pagings) InfoRAC No

Traffic on each cell InfoTraficCellule No



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Traffic on each controller InfoTraficControleur No

Handovers InfoHO No

(*) the file for MSC must be present even if there is no MSC (in this case, keep only the first row containing

the fields)

The following files are mandatory for networks data services only.

Content Xml tag

SGSN NoeudCoeurData

Routing areas ZoneDeLocalisationData

Files inserted between the following tags describe the thresholds for different equipments.

Content Xml tag

Controller thresholds and maximum load rates SeuilsControleurAvecCharge

Location areas thresholds SeuilsZoneLA

MSC thresholds SeuilsNoeudCoeurVoix

MSS thresholds SeuilsMscServeur

OMC thresholds SeuilsSuperviseur

These thresholds allow the user to follow each equipment load. An alert is displayed in the log window when

an overload occurs. Alerts are displayed when the user open a file, after a manual modification or after an

automatic optimization.

The following files are created automatically by Constellation when a network is saved (cf. 5.3Save a

network). They are stored in a separate directory named "Private". The user doesn't need to generate these

files.Content Xml tag

Modifications on the network Operations

Areas colors Couleur

Frozen equipments EquipGeles

Contour Contour

New sites NouveauSiteRadio



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If problems are encountered during data import, error files are created. A file is generated for each kind of

data (cells, sites, controllers, links, MSC, SGSN, LA, RA, OMC, traffic, mobility flows).

This file is written in the same folder as the imported file.

The following files can be generated:

ErrCellule.txt ErrControleur.txt ErrLienSiteRaccordement.txt ErrSiteRadio.txt ErrMGW.txt ErrMSS.txt ErrZoneDeLocalisationVoix.txt ErrZoneDeLocalisationData.txt ErrNoeudCoeurData.txt ErrInfoHO.txt ErrInfoLAC.txt ErrInfoRAC.txt ErrInfoTraficCellule.txt ErrNouveauSiteRadio.txt

These files describe all the inconsistencies found during import. All the elements concerned are not imported.

5.3.Save a networkThis submenu allows the user to save the network state at a certain point (initial network as well as

modifications and Layer manager configuration) (Figure 4).

An .xml file and a folder with all files described in part 4 (Manual edition of a network) are created.

Figure 4: File saving (xml format)

5.4.Close a networkThe submenu "Close" allows the user to close a network previously opened.

5.5.Quit constellationThe user can quit the software by this submenu. A confirmation is requested before the effective close of

Constellation.



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6. Visualisation possibilities6.1.Search an equipment

User can search an equipment of the network from its name, its code or even a part of it. The results are

displayed in the window (Figure 5). When user selects a result (left click on the result), the equipment isselected in the "network configuration" window.

Figure 5: "Search" window

6.2.Color modificationsThe color of each displayed area can be modified.

After a left-click on the submenu (Figure 6), a new window appears (Figure 7). Colors of controllers,

location areas, routing areas, MSC/MSS, MGW, and SGSN can be modified. A double-click on the color

opens a new window and then a new color can be chosen.

The borders tab allows user to change thickness and color for LA and controller in "2G" and "3G".

Figure 6: Submenu Tools/Color



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Trick to find easily the color of an equipment: on the Layer manager/Areas window, select the appropriate

mode of view. Then choose the site belonging to the equipment. The equipment color is automatically

selected in the colors modification window.

Figure 7: Colors modification window

6.3.Add a LAUser can add a location area within an existing MSC/MSS. A new window appears after having chosen the

menu "Add a LA" (Figure 8). User must give information about: the MSC/MSS which manage this new LA; the technology when the MSC/MSS supports both; the LA code; the pagings threshold for this location area (optional); the traffic threshold for this location area (optional); the display color of this location area.



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Figure 8: Add a LA



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7. Information about displays7.1.Windows/Network description

The architecture of the network is presented in this window by a tree diagram (Figure 9). All the equipments

from MSC and MSS to sites are listed. Location areas are also listed under each MSC and MGW are locatedunder each MSS.

User can select an equipment to see its properties into properties window (Figure 32).

When the network has two types of top-level equipment, namely MSC and MSS, they are separated in two

categories at the top of the tree.

Figure 9: Network description window

7.2.Windows/Mobility flowsEvolutions of mobility flows before and after optimization are displayed in this window (Figure 10).

Tab "Optimization criteria"This tab gives the list of the criteria used by automatic optimization: handovers between controllers,

total number of LA update, number of LA update between MSC/MSS from another technology.

Figure 10: Mobility flows evaluation window

Tab "HO 2G-2G" and "HO 3G-3G"Those tabs are enabled when the corresponding technology is available in the current network. They

display the accumulated handovers between controllers, MGW, MSC/MSS, the total number of

handovers, and the number of handovers in MSC and MSS.



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Tab "HO Inter-RAT"This tab offers the same information than the previous tabs for handovers between different

technologies.

Tab "Intra/Inter HO ratio"For the whole network, 4 evaluations are performed on HO (Figure 11):

oHO Intra controllers / HO Inter controllers (for 2G)

o HO Intra controllers / HO Inter controllers (for 3G)o HO Intra LA / HO Inter LA (for 2G)o HO Intra LA / HO Inter LA (for 3G)

For each evaluation, a target value can be defined. Evaluations lower than target are displayed in red

and evaluations upper than target are displayed in green. A right-click on the window values opens a

contextual submenu "Modify the thresholds". These values are saved with the network saving.

Figure 11 :Evaluation of Intra/inter HO ratio

Tab "Problem sites"At the window bottom (Figure 12), 2 thresholds (one for each technology) can be modified to obtainthe quantity of sites performing more HO (inter-controller or inter-LA) than these thresholds.

These sites can be displayed in the visualization window (cf. 7.4Windows/Layer manager)

Figure 12 : Highlight of sites with high HO inter controllers or HO inter-LA

7.3.Windows/ModificationsAll the modifications performed on the initial network are listed in this window.

4 kinds of operations are established:

Controller modification for a site LA modification for a site LA and controller modification for a site MSC/MSS modification for a controller



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On the left side of this window, user can select the new sites tab to monitor them.

Figure 13: Modifications window

Figure 14: New sites tab

The first three kinds of modifications concern sites. A site can appear only in one list. The last kind of

modification only concerns controllers.

For each modification, information is given about the site or controller, the initial and the final connections.

The user can cancel a modification. A right click on a modification displays a contextual menu (Figure 15).

A left click on "Cancel the modification" removes the operation. It's not possible to cancel modifications on

a single site when this modification was induced by the connection modification of a controller. The

controller modification must be cancelled.

A left click on "Cancel all" cancels all the modifications already performed on the network. The initial

network is recovered.

The last option "Accept all " empties the entire modification table. All these modifications are definitively

integrated in the network. The initial network can not be recovered and all current evaluations become

initial evaluations.



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Figure 15: Contextual menu on modifications

New sites tab gives the list of new sites with some information (Figure 14):

Code and name of the new site Controller and LA affiliation The provider of the new site

The affectation is automatic but can be modified manually.

Notice: If a new site is selected on the new sites tab, it is also selected on network description window. More

information are displayed on properties window (Figure 32) and state bar (Figure 16).

Figure 16: Site information

7.4.Windows/Layer manager

7.4.1. Simple TabIn this window you will be provided with simple means to manage what is displayed (Figure 17).

Technology: user chooses which technology he wants to display: 2G sites or 3G sites. If the initialnetwork is made up of a single technology, no choice is possible.

Contour: user can visualize all specifics information about a contour or the entire network. HO and LA flows: user can visualize the mobility between the sites. HO corresponds to the mobility

in connected mode (it is calculated from the input data describing HO between cells). LAU

corresponds to the mobility in idle mode. These potential LAU are extrapolated from HO values.

Inter: this option colors flows between areas in red. Other flows are colored in grey.

Areas: user chooses which kind of area he wants to display: sites color is affected per controller(BSC or RNC), per location area, per MGW or per MSC/MSS. If the network contains data

information, RA and SGSN are also available. In the case of MGW, sites who belong to a MSC (and

therefore not to a MGW) are displayed in gray.

Borders: user chooses which kind of borders he wants to display: LA or Controller borders. Thearea of each controller is delimited by a green border. The area of each controller is delimited by a

blue border.

Others displays: user chooses which kind of specific visualization he wants to display between 4choices: modifications, flows by areas, problem sites and frozen equipments.



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Figure 17: Layer manager, simple tab



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Figure 18: Example of display

On this example (Figure 18), 3G sites are displayed according to their controller. Red lines correspond to

mobility between sites connected to different RNC. Grey lines correspond to mobility between sitesconnected to the same RNC. Blue borders correspond to Controller borders.

If HO and Controller area are chosen: red links correspond to HO inter-BSC or inter-RNC If HO and MSC area are chosen: red links correspond to HO inter-MSC If HO and LA area are chosen: red links correspond to HO between LA If LAU and LA area are chosen: red links correspond to LAU towards VLR If LAU and MSC area are chosen: red links correspond to LAU towards HLR

To increase legibility, the weakest flows can be removed. The box "HO and LA flows" allows the user to

define two thresholds (Figure 19). The first one define the HO threshold, the second one the LAU threshold.

To confirm the threshold modification, user has to press "Enter".

Figure 19: Thresholds for HO and LAU



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Figure 20: Example of HO flows greater than 500 HO per day

The lower part of the layer manager concerns other display options (Figure 21).

Figure 21: Display options

Modifications: sites concerned by a modification are highlighted (Figure 22) Flows by areas: sites are removed from the display. It allows a visualization of LAU between LA,

HO between BSC or RNC and HO between MSC (according to the selected area) (Figure 23)

Problem sites: show all sites which get important HO flows or LAU flows (Figure 24) Frozen equipments: show all sites which are frozen (Figure 25)



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Figure 22: Visualization of modifications

Figure 23: Visualization of flows by areas



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Figure 24: Visualization of problem sites

Figure 25: Visualization of frozen equipments



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7.4.2. Advanced tabIn this window you will be given fine control over what is displayed, including options not available in the

simple tab (Figure 27).


Technology: buttons allow you to select whichtechnology is currently selected; some choices may

not be available if no relevant data has been loaded.

A set of tabs allows manipulating the options foreach technology independently.

Each technology can be displayed with a differenttransparency. To get a better view of colocated

equipments each technology can be shifted (those

controls are not available for the current

technology).

Sites: provides a wide array of controls over theway sites are displayed; you can

o choose which colour to paint the sites withthrough the radio buttons on top;

o switch the display of modified and frozensites, which will appear with a distinct

shape;

o activate the planned site's outlining andmodulate its colour with a cursor (see

Figure 29);

o display site names next to their positions;o enhance the contrast between selected

noticeable sites and the others, which willappear in a lighter shade (see Figure 30).

The checkboxes in the table control the display ofupper-level equipment and areas information, such

as position (see Figure 28), border of areas and

names. Unlike in the simple tab, labels for any

combination of items can be displayed together.

Links: allows to display the links between sites andtheir controller, along with the bandwidth associated

or the number of such links, depending on which is

available (see Figure 31).

When upper-level equipment positions are selected, they will appear as colored triangular flags. Controllersare green, MGW are yellow, MSS are red, MSC are left-leaning and light blue.

When controllers may share the same location, only one flag will be displayed. In that case, hovering over

the flag will show their name in a popup box.

Figure 26 : Advanced Tab

Figure 29 : Enhancing contrast fornoticeable sites

Figure 28 : Newsites outlining

colour

Figure 27 : Equipmentposition


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Figure 30: Links between sites and controllers

7.4.3. Flows tabWith this tab, you can simultaneously display flows between each set of source and target technology.

7.4.4. Display consistencyAs the effects of both tab overlap, Constellation will try to propagate changes from one to another. All

settings in the simple tab will propagate to the advanced tab.

However, as the advanced tab has more flexibility, some configuration might not be replicated to the simple

tab.

When you display labels for equipments different from the one used for the sites colours, the labelcheckbox in the simple tab will appear in an intermediate state.

The same will happen if more than one equipment label is selected. If modified sites and frozen sites are both selected, the "Other displays" dropdown list will be

cleared.

Using the affected controls in the simple tab will undo the settings in the advanced tab.

7.5.Windows/Properties7.5.1. General

This window displays the properties of the equipment chosen in the "Network description" window (Figure

9):

MSC/MSS and MGW Controller Location area Site

Nota: TRX field is not use for 3G sites



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In the example given on Figure 32, properties of a RNC are displayed on Property tab. User can modify the

RNC configuration by using the Configuration combo box.

When thresholds are defined, three values are displayed on Load tab: Load, Load rate and Max load rate.

Overloads are displayed in the log window (cf. 7.5.2Controller properties and global traffic)

For mobility flows (on the Loadtab), evaluation is split in two parts: a+b=c. "a" corresponding to the flowscoming from 2G, "b" corresponding to flows coming from 3G and "c" corresponding to the sum.

Figure 31: Properties window

A right click on the Load tab opens a contextual menu "Modify the thresholds" (Figure 33). A left click on it

opens a new window (Figure 34). The different thresholds of the equipment are displayed and values can be

modified, along to the maximum load rates. Clearing the threshold text box will remove the associated limit.

Figure 32: Contextual menu on properties window



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Figure 33: Thresholds display window

7.5.2. Controller properties and global trafficGlobal traffic for controllers is not loaded from the input files. Instead, its load rate is calculated from the CS

and PS traffics by a formula given by the provider.

ALLU: global load rate is the maximum between CS traffic load rate and PS traffic load rate. NSN: global load rate is the sum of CS traffic load rate and PS traffic load rate.

No calculation is made for providers not in this list.

7.5.3. CS and PS trafficsValues of CS and PS traffics at the controllers are either loaded from the input files, or deduced from radio

sites traffics.

When you reassign a site, Constellation will proportionally reduce the traffics of the source controller and

add them to the destination controller.

+=

site

reassigned

sourcedestdestt

tTTT

=

site

reassigned

sourcesourcet

tTT 1

7.6.Windows/LogsThe calculation tab is filled when a file is opened (Figure 35). The selection of an item (left click) leads to

the selection of this LA in the properties window and in the architecture window.



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Figure 34: Multiplying factors between LAU and HO

The load tab verifies overloads in the networks (Figure 36). Verification of overloads is performed when a

network is opened. During an interactive optimization, a message is displayed when an overload occurs. For

an automatic optimization, messages are generated at the end of the optimization.

Figure 35: Log window



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The notes tab allows the user to add comments to the network. Its content is preserved when the network is

saved and appears in the synthetic export index page.

7.7.Zoom and movement button7.7.1. Fitted zoom

Figure 36: Fitted zoom button

The initial display (all the network) is directly obtained after a left-click on this button (Figure 37).

7.7.2.

Move

Figure 37: Display areas selection

This button allows the user to shift the display (Figure 38). After a first left-click on the button, the cursor is

modified (when the cursor is on the display window). A left-click (without relaxing) on the display window

followed by a cursor movement leads to a sites display shift.Is it also possible to shift the display without selecting this button. In this case, the left-click on the display

window must be performed outside of a site.

7.7.3. Zoom in

Figure 38: Zoom in button

With this button, the user can zoom-in a selected area (Figure 39). After a left-click on the button, the cursor

is modified. The area is selected by a left-click (without relaxing), a cursor movement and then the button

relaxation. The zoom-in can also be performed with the mouse wheel (move up).



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Figure 39: Display during a zoom-in action

7.7.4. Zoom out

Figure 40: Zoom out button

After a left-click on the "zoom-out" button (Figure 41), a zoom-out is performed on the current display.

The zoom-out can also be performed with the mouse wheel (move down).



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Figure 41: Display after a zoom-out

7.7.5. Areas selection

Figure 42: Areas selection button

With this button (Figure 43), the user can select an area. After a left-click on the button, the cursor is

modified. Each left-click on the display defines the vertexes of the area. A double left-click closes the area

and the area becomes grey (Figure 44).



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Figure 43: Selected area

A right-click on the greyed area opens a contextual menu. 6 actions are possible from this menu: Set new contour (cf. 9.1.1Create a contour) Freeze this area (cf. 9.2.3Freeze a contour's sites) Unfreeze this area (cf. 9.2.4Unfreeze a contour's sites) LA modification (cf. 8.1.1LA and Controller modification) Controller modification (cf. 8.1.1LA and Controller modification) Background map (cf. 9.3.1Import map)



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8. Optimization8.1.Interactive modification of the network

8.1.1. LA and Controller modification for a single siteAt the site level, 2 modifications are possible: LA assignment modification and connected controller

modification. A help is given to the user (evaluations) to optimize the network.

A contextual sub-menu appears after a right-click on a site (Figure 45):

To reduce LAU interLA, the user should choose submenu "LA modification"

To balance controllers load, the user should choose submenu "Controller modification"

Figure 44: Submenu for interactive optimization

A new dialog window appears after a left-click on LA modification or Controller modification.

Figure 45: Dialog box to choose new affections

Evaluations given for LA (LAU eval) correspond to LAU inter-LA. Evaluations given for controllers (HO

eval) correspond to HO InterController.

Red evaluations indicate degradation and green ones indicate improving of evaluations.



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If user chooses "LA modification", the left part of the dialog box (Figure 46) displays all the possible

location areas with the LAU inter-LA evolution (if this LA is chosen). A tag (>) in the third column indicates

if the location area is managed by another MSC. To access this location area, the site must be connected to a

new controller belonging to the appropriate MSC. In this case, after having selected a location area, the user

must choose a new controller. The right part of the box gives the list of possible controllers on this MSC.

The HO inter-controller evolution is given.

Another way to change affectations is to choose the submenu "Controller modification". In this case, the goal

is to change the controller of a site (for example to balance load on the different controllers).

In this case, the left part of the dialog box (Figure 47) displays all the possible controllers with the HO inter-

controller evolution (if this controller is chosen). The tag (>) in the third column indicates if the controller

belongs to another MSC. In this case, the site location area must be modified and the right part of the box

gives the list of possible LA on this MSC. The LAU inter-LA evolution is given.

After validation by selecting the "OK" button, the entire network is updated:

Network display Borders display List of modifications window (Figure 48) Mobility flows Evaluations Equipments properties

Alerts are displayed in the log window if overloads occurred on equipments concerned by the modifications.

Figure 46: Controller modification

Figure 47: Modifications update



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8.1.2. LA and Controller modification for several sitesMany sites can be selected with the "Areas selection" button (cf. 7.7.5Areas selection). The contextual menu

(on a left-click) proposes the controller modification or the LA modification of all the sites selected (Figure

49).After a left-click on LA modification or Controller modification, a new window is displayed (Figure 50).

With multiple-site selection, no evaluation is given. User chooses a new location area and a new controller

from this window.

Figure 48: Contextual menu on selected area



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Figure 49: Controller modification

8.1.3. Frozen sitesUser can exclude a site from optimization. The site takes part in the evaluations but no modification can be

performed on it.

After a right-click on a site, the contextual menu is displayed (Figure 51). A right-click on "Freeze site"

freezes the site. A red square appears in front of the name site in the network description window, and the

contextual menu entry will change to "Unfreeze site".

The freezing is valid for automatic and interactive optimization.

Figure 50: Frozen site

8.1.4. Freezing multiple sitesThere are three ways to freeze multiple sites : freezing all the sites of a controller, freezing all the sites in aLA, or freezing an area.

Constellation allows the user to freeze all the sites of a controller. To perform an action on the controller, the

displayed areas must correspond to controllers. Therefore, the contextual menu for sites displays the



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controller's name on the last line. A right-click on the submenu "Freeze the controller sites" freezes all the

sites of the controller (

Figure 52).

Figure 51: Controller freezing

Constellation allows the user to freeze all the sites of a LA. To perform an action on the location areas, the

displayed areas must correspond to location areas. Therefore, the contextual menu for sites displays on the

last line, the number of the location area. A right-click on the submenu "Freeze LA sites" freezes all the sites

of the location area (

Figure 53).



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Figure 52: LA freezing

Many sites can be selected with the "Areas selection" button (cf. 7.7.5Areas selection). The contextual menu

(on a left-click) proposes the freezing of the whole area (Figure 54). A left-click on "Freeze this area" freezes

all the sites of the selected area.

Figure 53: Freezing an area

8.1.5. New sitesAfter selecting "Optimization/New site/Add Site", an "Add a new site" window is displayed (Figure 55).

On this window, user must fill all fields to create a new site:

Technology: user can choose between "2G" and "3G" when it's possible. Name: user can define the site's name. Code: user can define the NIDT code. Coordinates: user can define coordinates (X,Y) of the new site. Traffic: user can define forecasted voice traffic. TRX Number: user can define forecasted TRX number. Links number: user can define forecasted links number



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Then user has to validate information by clicking "OK" button. The new site appears on network. It is

automatically selected on network map and it appears in the modifications window (New sites tab) (Figure

56).

Figure 54: Add a new site window

Figure 55: New sites tab

8.1.6. New sites connectionsNew sites are automatically connected when added or imported without controller and LA information. You

can choose between three methods: copy from nearest site, or find the prevalent controller and LA in the

three nearest sites, or find the best match for distance and handover volumes in the five nearest sites. If the

last two methods fail to produce an acceptable result, the previous methods will be used in cascade until a

solution is found (the nearest site always produce a solution).

To select a method, use the items under the "Attaching" separator in the "Optimization/New site" submenu

(Figure 57). This setting is available even when no network is loaded. It will affect unattached new sitessubsequently loaded in a network, imported from a file, or manually added.



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Figure 56: New site connection methods

Figure 57: Information of new site on main window

8.1.7. New sites validation/modificationThere are two ways to validate, modify properties of a new site (Figure 59):

Perform a right mouse click on the graphical new site, and then select Validate new site orModifyproperties

Perform a right mouse click on the site in Modifications-New sites tab and then select Validate newsite orModify properties



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Figure 58 : Validate - Modify properties of a new site

New site validation process is irreversible, a confirmation window is displayed before this operation.

8.1.8. Adding a controllerTo add a new controller, use the entry "Add Controller" in the "Optimization" menu. A new window will

appear (see Figure 60). You will then be able to enter its properties.

The code field is mandatory, as the parent equipment. You may not add a controller when no MSC or MGW

are available for the chosen technology.

You can enter the provider configuration and call profile by hand. Alternately, you may choose from the

predefined sets from the dropdown lists. If you do so, you will be able to apply the thresholds with the left

arrow button, next to the configuration. It will overwrite any manual entry in the process. Notice that those

buttons will be activated only for known models, configurations and call profiles (for more information

about predefined controller models and call profiles, please see section 9.5).

A controller code may only contain letters and numbers and underscores, while its name can take any form.The coordinates are limited to numbers.

You may enter the controller thresholds and maximum load rates through the table. Checking a box will

enable the corresponding threshold, which you may then modify. De-checking will return it to the undefined

state. The load rate is in the last column.

When all mandatory values are entered, the Add button will be activated. Pressing it will add the controller

to the network and clear the fields. You may then add another controller or close the window.



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Figure 59: Adding a controller

8.1.9. Modify the connected MSC or MGW for a controllerConstellation allows the user to manually modify the connection between a controller and a MSC or a MGW.

To perform an action on the controller, the displayed areas must correspond to controllers. Therefore, the

contextual menu for sites displays the controller's name on the last line. A right-click on the submenu

"Modify the MSC" launches a new dialog box (Figure 61). All the possible MSC and MGW are displayed in

the left part of the window, prefixed by their type. After the MSC/MGW choice, the location areas managed

by this MSC or the relevant MSS are displayed in the right part of the window. The modification is validated

after a left-click on the "OK" button.

The operation is added in the list of modifications (MSC modification). The LA modifications induced by

the operations are also added in the list (LA modification).

Figure 60: Modification of the connected MSC

8.1.10.LA modification of a whole controller



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It can be convenient to modify large areas of the network. Constellation allows the modification of the

location area of all the sites of a controller in a single time. The procedure is the same as MSC/MSS

modification (cf. 8.1.9Modify the connected MSC or MGW for a controller). A right-click on the submenu

"LA modification" launches a new dialog box (Figure 62). All the location areas managed by the current

MSC are displayed. If user wants to choose a location area not managed by the current MSC, an MSC

modification must be performed before.

Figure 61: LAC modification

8.1.11.LA modification of a whole LATo perform this action on the location area, the displayed areas must correspond to location areas. Therefore,

the contextual menu for sites displays on the last line, the code of the current location area (

Figure 63). A right-click on the submenu "Modify the LAC of the sites" launches a new dialog box. All the

LA managed by the current MSC are displayed. After a left-click on the "OK" button, all the sites of the

current LA are assigned to the chosen location area.

All the LA modifications induced by this action are added in the list "LA modification".

Figure 62: Modification of LA assignment for a whole LA

8.2.Automatic optimizationUser guide TORINO (Constellation G4R3) FT/OLNC/RD/RESA/PEAK/12.115/FV 50


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Constellation provides efficient heuristics to automatically optimize the network.

To optimize the network, Constellation tries to reduce the LAU while verifying different constraints: limits

on the number of modifications, number of cells, sites, TRX, links, pagings, CS traffic, PS traffic, global

traffic. These constraints are displayed in bold in the property window.

8.2.1. Optimization of the whole networkTo access automatic optimization on the whole network, user must left-click on the menu tools. The

submenu "Automatic optimization" appears (Figure 64). A left-click on this submenu launches a new dialog

box (Figure 65).

Figure 63: Automatic optimization submenu

Figure 64: Automatic optimization window

8.2.2. Optimisation parametersBefore launching the optimization, user must give values for various parameters (Figure 65).

Quantity of iterations (linked to the optimization duration) (default: 100 000 iterations).

The 3 following boxes correspond to operations constraints:

Max Controller operations (default: 10, maximum: 9999) Max LA operations (default: 10, maximum: 9999)

Max LA and Controller operations (default: 10, maximum: 9999)



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Other constraints (about pagings and controller loads) are defined by the thresholds given in input data files.

These values are displayed in bold in the properties windows. User can modify them manually as explained

in "7.4Windows/Layer manager". All solutions given by Constellation verify the constraints. If no solution

is found, no modification is proposed at the end of the optimization.

Then, the type of optimization is chosen.

If a 2G network is opened, the unique possible optimization is "2G optimization" If a 3G network is opened, the unique possible optimization is "3G optimization" If the network is both 2G and 3G, user can also choose "3G optimization (with incoming 2G

mobility flows)" and "2G optimization (with incoming 3G mobility flows)"

Signification of optimization type:

2G optimization: only 2G sites are modified (LA modification, BSC modification or LA and BSCmodification). The evaluated function to minimize is a mix of LAU inter-LA 2G towards 2G and HO

inter-BSC.

3G optimization: only 3G sites are modified (LA modification, RNC modification or LA and RNCmodification). The evaluated function to minimize is a mix of LAU inter-LA 3G towards 3G and the

SHO inter-RNC. 3G optimization (with incoming 2G mobility flows): only 3G sites are modified (LA modification,

RNC modification or LA and RNC modification). The evaluated function to minimize is a mix of the

LAU inter-LA 3G towards 3G, the LAU inter-MSC 2G towards 3G and SHO inter-RNC.

2G optimization (with incoming 3G mobility flows): only 2G sites are modified (LA modification,BSC modification or LA and BSC modification). The evaluated function to minimize is a mix of the

LAU inter-LA 2G towards 2G, the LAU inter-MSC 3G towards 2G and HO inter-BSC.

By default, Constellation will give the same priority to handover optimization and LA update optimization.

With the optimization balancing cursor you can force Constellation to favour one over the other when

selecting operations. In extreme cases, this can lead to a worsening of the parameter lower priority criteria.

8.2.3. Custom optimisation criteriaIn addition to the predefined optimization types, Constellation allows you to edit the influence of each

individual criterion. Clicking the "Edit" button will bring up an additional window, in which each criterion is

separately modifiable.

8.2.4. Advanced operation limitsOnce checked, the "Advanced operations" panel offers a finer control over the number of operations per

technology.

8.2.5. Launching the optimisationOnce you click on the "OK" button Constellation will check if operations are already present in the network.

If existing ones exceed the limits given in the former dialog, you will have to choose between clearing them

and resume the optimization, or cancel the process (Figure 66). Otherwise, you will have the opportunity to

keep or clear the operations before the optimization begins (Figure 67).

Notice: when the optimization is started with current operations, Constellation can remove a part of them or

all of them if the final optimization is better.



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Figure 65: Dialog box when the modifications lists are not empty: 1rst case

Figure 66: Dialog box when the modifications lists are not empty: 2nd case

At the beginning of optimization, constellation checks the thresholds given to the equipments. If some are

not met, the constraint solving window will appear (Figure 68) and reflect the evolution of the resolution. If

the iterations are exhausted before constraints are solved no solution is found and no modification is

proposed. When no solution is found, user should verify if the constraints are not too important (for example

current pagings very far from thresholds) and if the quantity of operations is sufficient.

If all constraints are solved, the optimization window will appear.

In the optimization window, the yellow curve corresponds to the initial evaluation. The red curve indicates

the minimum evaluation found by Constellation.

User can stop the simulation at any time by a left-click on the "Stop" button.

At the end of the optimization, the modification list, network display, network description window and all

evaluations are updated.

Figure 67: Constraints resolution.



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Figure 68: Visualization during automatic optimization

8.2.6. Optimization of a part of the networkMany sites can be selected with the "Areas selection" button (cf. 7.7.5Areas selection). The contextual menu

(on a left-click) proposes to set a new contour (9.1.1Create a contour). After this creation, the contextual

menu on this contour (on a left-click) proposes the optimization of the selected sites. It means the network

will modify only the selected sites.

8.3.Additional functionalities for optimization8.3.1. Optimization of the modifications sequence

When the list of modifications is not empty, Constellation can provide the best operations sequence. The

solution gives the order which maximize the network quality all along the operations execution.

The selection of the menu Tools -> Operations Scheduler launches automatically the optimization (Figure

70). The red line indicates the evaluation of the network after each modification without optimization.

During optimization, Constellation modifies the order of the operations: the blue line indicates the evaluation

of the network after each modification during optimization process.

User stops optimization when he wants by clicking on the stop button. Results can be viewed by choosing

the window tab "Results". The list gives the best operations order (Figure 71).



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Figure 69 : Optimization of the modifications sequence

Figure 70 : List of the optimized operations sequence

The button "Export Results" in the window bottom allows user to export the list in a .csv text file.

8.3.2. Export modifications



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This submenu allows the user to save modifications performed on the initial network. These modifications

are saved in an xml file (with extension .ope). The initial network is not saved by this operation. The whole

saving (network as well modifications) is performed via the File/Save submenu).

8.3.3. Import new sitesThis submenu allows the user to import planified sites on the network. The properties of these new sites aredescribed in a .txt file format. See (Appendix 1) for more details about the new sites file format.

After this import Constellation layers are updated and the new sites ready to be displayed.

8.3.4. Import modificationsThis submenu allows the user to import a list of modifications of the network. These modifications are

described in a file .ope (xml format). These files are created automatically by Constellation during an export

(8.3.2Export modifications). User doesn't need to create these files manually and doesn't have to modify

them.

When you import modifications, you will be given the choice to clear existing modifications or append the

new modifications. In case of conflicts with existing operations, new modifications will supersede existingones.

8.3.5. Export synthesisA synthesis of the current network can be exported by this submenu.

It is composed of an index (which name is chosen with a file dialog box), a directory with the same base

name and the associated pages inside. You can open the index in your browser to access the synthesis or

directly open the chosen file in the associated directory.

The synthesis is composed of six pages: an index, a list of modifications, a list of flows, a list of equipments,

a list of new sites, and a list of problem sites. Six buttons at the top of each page allow you to navigate easily

between them. Furthermore, a list of links offers quick access to the sections of each page. At the end of each

section a link will bring you to the top of the page.You can copy the content of each table to a spreadsheet for further modifications. Please note that actual

results will depend on your browser and spreadsheet software.

8.3.6. Cells evolutionSelecting "Optimization/Cells evolution" displays a board which contains all network cells. User can see the

evolution of inter controller HO flows between cells (Figure 72).

User can select a cell with left-click button which allows him to see its site on the network (Figure 73).

The evolution can be exported into a ".txt" file with a left-click on the Save button (Figure 74 : Export Cells

Evolution).



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Figure 71: Cells evolution board

Figure 72: Parent site on the network

Figure 73 : Export Cells Evolution


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9. Others functionalities9.1.Contours management

9.1.1. Create a contourTo create a contour, use the "Areas selection" button (3.6.6Areas selection).

When finished, the area becomes grey. Then press a right-click button and select "Set new Contour" (Figure

75).

This action will display a window which is possible to change contour parameters (Figure 76):

Name Color Transparency

Then click "OK" to save and display the new contour.

Figure 74: Contextual menu of a grey area

Figure 75: Contour parameters menu



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9.1.2. Change properties of a contourA right-click on a contour opens a contextual menu (Figure 77).

Then user has to choose "Contour properties", a new window appears where he can change contour

properties (Figure 78).

Modifications will be saved by the selection of the "OK" button.

Figure 76: Contou contextual menu

Figure 77: Contour properties windo

9.1.3. Delete a contourntextual menu (Figure 77)

ow removed.

9.1.4. Hide a contour

r

w

A right-click on a contour opens a co

Then user just has to choose "Remove contour". The contour is n



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This menu is available in "Display/Contours" if there is almost one created contour. User can then select a

contour and chose to display or hide this one (Figure 79).

Figure 78: Visualization of contour menu

9.1.5. Export a contourThis action is available in "File/Export/Contour" (Figure 80).

Then a window "Save as" is displayed (Figure 81). User chooses a folder and a filename and press "OK"

to export all created contours.

Figure 79: Contextual menu for exportation



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Figure 80: Save as window

9.1.6. Import a contourThis action is available in "File/Import/Contour" (Figure 82).

Then a window "Open" is displayed (Figure 83). User chooses a folder and a filename and press "OK" toimport all created contours.

There are two different import possibilities. It's possible to import (*.ctr) and (*.shp) extension file.

Constellation will automatically use the appropriate method to import the contour's file.

Figure 81: Contextual menu for importation



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Figure 82: Open window for contour importation.

9.1.7. Optimize sites contourA right-click on a contour opens a contextual menu (Figure 77).

User has to choose "Optimize contour sites". An "Automatic optimization" window will appear. Contour's

color and name is written on the window to specify that user is on a contour optimization (Figure 84).

Then next steps will proceed like a standard automatic optimization (cf. Optimization of a part of the

network).



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Figure 83: Contour's sites automatic optimization window

9.1.8. Freeze all contour sitesA right-click on a contour opens a contextual menu (Figure 77)

Then user can choose "Freeze contour sites" to freeze all sites of the selected contour.

A red square appears in front of the name site in the network description window.

9.2.Freezing a part of the network9.2.1. Freeze a site

To know how to freeze a site see 8.1.3Frozen sites.

9.2.2. Unfreeze a siteAfter a right-click on a site, the contextual menu is displayed (cf. 8.1.3Frozen sites). A left-click on

"Unfreeze site" unfreezes the site. A left-click on "Unfreeze all sites" unfreezes all the sites.

9.2.3. Freeze a contour's sitesTo know how to freeze a contour's sites see 9.1.8Freeze all contour sites.

9.2.4. Unfreeze a contour's sitesTo know how to unfreeze a contour's site see 9.1.8Freeze all contour sites.

9.3.Using maps9.3.1. Import map description

After having selected "File/Import/Map Description", an "open" window is displayed (Figure 85).

User can only import (*.map) extension file. This importation will recover a description of maps which is

contained in this file.



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Figure 84: Import map window

9.3.2. Export map descriptionSelect "File/Export/Map Description", a "save as" window is displayed (Figure 86).

After choosing a filename and clicking "OK", Constellation will automatically export and display an export

confirmation (Figure 87).



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Figure 85: Export map window

Figure 86: Export confirmation

9.3.3. Maps managerAfter selected "Tools/Maps Manager", a "Maps Manager" window is displayed (Figure 88).

This window allow user to change five options of a background map:

Name: user can change the name of a background map by double-clicking on the background map'sname to change

Up / down: user can change the background map's layer level Delete: user can delete a map Opacity: user can change the opacity of each background map



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Figure 87: Maps manager window

9.4.Working with NetCop9.4.1. Export NetCop

To export a NetCop network, select it on "File/Export/NetCop".

Then a window with three steps appears:

First step: Choose where to write cells file and topology file. And click on "Next" button.(Figure 89) Second step: Select the import topology file which is previously exported by NetCop. And click on

"Next" button (Figure 90)

Third step: Select the import cell file which previously exported by NetCop. And click "Export"(Figure 91)

After that, a window is displayed to confirm the export is well made.

Figure 88: Export NetCop step 1



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9.4.2. Import NetCopThe submenu "Open" (keyboard shortcut Ctrl+O) let the user open an XML file (Figure 3). This file givesthe location of all the files needed to describe the network.

9.5.Predefined controller configurations and call profilesYou can provide Constellation with predefined controller configurations and call profiles. Subsequently,

those values will be available when adding a new controller, or when selecting one in the Network

description window. The former use is described in section 8.1.8: Adding a controller.

9.5.1. Controller configuration fileController models are described in a file named "Controllers_features.csv". It is composed of fields separated

by either commas or semi-colons. Their meaning is determined by the identifiers in the header line. Fieldheaders are case insensitive, yet must not contain any superfluous spaces or signs.

The following fields are understood. Extraneous fields may not be taken into account by Constellation.

Field header Field format Description

NAME text name of the controller model

PROVIDER text name of the model's provider

CELLS integer maximum number of cells

LA QUANTITY integer maximum number of location areas

LINKS integer maximum number of links

SITES integer maximum number of sites

TRX integer maximum number of TRX

CS TRAFFIC real number maximum CS traffic

PS TRAFFIC real number maximum PS traffic

PAGINGS real number maximum number of pagings

PARENT

DISTANCE

real number maximum distance from sites

The aforementioned file is read as Constellation starts.



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9.5.2. Call profile fileCall profiles are described in a file named "call_profile.csv",. It is composed of fields separated by either

commas or semi-colons. This file has a fixed format: the order of the fields may not be changed. The file

must contain a header line, but its content is only informational.

Column Field format Description Header example

1 text name of the call profile NAME

2 text associated controller configuration name CONFIGURATION

3 real number maximum CS traffic CS TRAFFIC

4 real number maximum PS traffic PS TRAFFIC

9.5.3. Controller thresholds and predefined configurations, call profilesWhen controller thresholds are read, if its provider and model are available in the predefined configurations

then any threshold not explicitly defined through the threshold file will be replaced by the value provided bythe corresponding configuration (if such a value is defined). Then, if the controller call profile is defined and

has been loaded, its values will be applied. The new thresholds thus defined will be exported in the project as

it is being written.

9.5.4. Existing controllers and model selectionWhen a controller is selected through the "Network description" window, its properties are displayed in the

"Properties" window.

The "Configuration" drop-down list shows which model is affected to the current controller. If alternative

configurations have been loaded, you will be provided with those that match the controller's provider. Notice

that choosing another model will erase existing values; you will have to confirm the operation. Furthermore,

if the current model does not exist in the predefined configurations and you choose to change to another, youwill not be able to return to the original one.

The "Call profile" drop-down list uses the same mechanism to select a call profile and apply the associated

thresholds.

9.6.Network creation wizardWith the network creation wizard you can create a network from one or more CSV files. The extracted data

is aggregated and split according to the file formats described in Appendix 2.

There are three ways to use the wizard: create a new sequence, modify an existing sequence, apply an

existing sequence.

9.6.1. Creating a new sequenceA sequence describes the way data will be collected from one or more file to create a network. The first step

is to select the target directory and the name of the network file and sequence file in the "Creation of a new

sequence" page.

A suite of description page will follow, each pertaining to an element of the network. They are all base on

the same scheme.

The user chooses a file in the top box and selects the separator and loads the file. The number of columns is

updated and a sample of the file is displayed in a tab.

The user then assigns each field of the target element to a column of the source file by selecting it in the table.

Alternatively, a value can be assigned to a field, to be applied to each entry of the target element.

Once each field is assigned, another set of files may be added with the bottom panel. When no more files areavailable, the user can go on to the next page.



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If an element of the network is not available in the source files, its page can be skipped with the "Skip page"

button.

Once all elements are entered or skipped, the user can add one or more filters on the fields previously

assigned, to be applied when the sequence is processed.

9.6.2. Modifying an existing sequenceThe user loads an existing sequence in the second page of the wizard. He can then proceed as explained in

creating a new sequence with the data previously entered.

Once all elements are entered or skipped, the user can add one or more filters on the fields previously

assigned, to be applied when the sequence is processed.

9.6.3. Launching a sequenceThe user loads an existing sequence in the second page of the wizard. Upon clicking on next, he can choose

to process the input files according to the sequence into a network and save the sequence, or just save the

sequence. Empty threshold files may be added to the network in the former case.

To launch the process, click on the "Files generation" button.



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10.Scheduler10.1. Add a scenario in the scheduler

A scheduler of optimizations is available in Constellation. This functionality allows the sequential launch of

multiple optimizations.A left-click on the menu "Scheduler" opens the submenu "Tools" (Figure 92). A left-click on it opens the

Scheduler window (F

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