How EXFO and Sunsight provide a unified solution for efficient wireless network management

EXFO and Sunsight have teamed up to offer contractors and mobile network operators (MNOs) a complete toolkit for the efficient certification and maintenance of cell site installations. The synergy of the combined expertise delivers best-in-class tools that ensure installations and physical site upgrades meet RF design specifications, giving tower crews the confidence and peace of mind that the job is done right from the get-go.    

EXFO’s RAN Toolkit includes the following essential test equipment:  

The FIP-435B wireless fiber inspection scope

Connector contamination remains one of the top reasons of wireless network failures. Fiber inspection is a critical step to guaranteeing 5G network performance. Techs sometimes think that because a fiber comes with a dust cap or inside plastic that it’s clean, but too many times that isn’t the case at all. 

Benefits of the FIP-435B include:  

• 100% automated for single fiber connectors, one step inspection process  
• Screenless operation enabled by pass/fail LED indicator  
• On-board connector endface analysis (IEC or custom standards)  
• Feature-rich ConnectorMax2 mobile application compatible with Android™ and iOS™ devices 
• Full reporting capabilities on mobile devices and EXFO test platforms  
• All-day battery life that  
• MF-ready scopes compatible with single-fiber and automated multifiber tips  
• Manufacturing automation using REST API available upon request  

The Optical Explorer optical fiber multimeter

The Optical Explorer quickly measures multiple key optical parameters such as loss (dB), optical return loss (dB), length (meters) and power (dBm). It helps technicians verify fiber optic link health and troubleshoot potential issues.  

Benefits of the Optical Explorer include:

• Displays fiber link KPIs (length, loss, ORL and power) in under 3 seconds, through single-ended testing  
• On-the-spot detection and location of common causes of failures using EXFO’s patent-pending Fault Explorer  
• Intelligent device:  
  • No settings required
  • Contextual wavelength auto-selection
  • Built-in expertise to interpret link KPIs with patent-pending EXFO Advisor (5-star ranking system)
  • Diagnosis with suggested corrective actions
• Built-in light source and power checker (dual-band available)
• Standalone go/no-go tester for day-to-day installation/repairs or paired with EXFO’s mobile app for cloud storage and full documentation of jobs 
• Save on cost of ownership: lifetime calibration, no factory returns thanks to patent-pending Click-Out optical connector  
• Rechargeable battery for over 10 hours of use on a single charge  
• 3-year warranty

A game changer: Sunsight’s AAT Mini Antenna Alignment Tool 

Accurate antenna alignment is critical during wireless network installation. Communication service providers invest significantly in the planning and designing of wireless and microwave networks and ensuring proper alignment during installation is key to meeting coverage objectives. As discussed in a previous blog, Why accurate antenna alignment is crucial in RAN networks, improper alignment can lead to coverage gaps, degraded network performance, higher operational costs and lost revenue. 

Achieving accurate antenna alignment requires more than just manual effort. This is where Sunsight's AAT Mini Antenna Alignment Tool comes into play. Sunsight's AAT Mini stands out as a reliable, efficient, and precise solution for antenna alignment, making it an essential asset for both telecom contractors and MNOs. Here are some reasons why: 

Accuracy and precision
Sunsight’s AAT Mini provides high-precision measurements for azimuth, tilt, roll, and height, and GPS coordinates ensuring that antennas are aligned to exact specifications. The result is improved signal quality, leading to enhanced network performance. In a market where even, minor misalignments can impact user experience, Sunsight’s tool guarantees that antennas are installed and maintained with pinpoint accuracy. 

Efficiency and cost-effectiveness
One of the key advantages of Sunsight’s AAT Mini is its ability to significantly reduce installation times. The tool's quick capture feature enables faster alignment, helping technicians complete their tasks efficiently. Moreover, the high level of accuracy means fewer site revisits and re-climbs, translating to cost savings in both time and labor. For network operators, this reduction in downtime and improved network performance drives lower overall operational costs.

Durability and reliability
Field conditions are often harsh, but Sunsight’s AAT Mini is built to withstand them. Its rugged construction ensures reliable performance even in adverse weather conditions. The absence of internal moving parts or fragile components means that the tool requires minimal maintenance, delivering consistent accuracy throughout its long lifespan.

User-friendliness
Sunsight’s AAT Mini is designed with the user in mind. Its intuitive interface simplifies the alignment process, making it accessible even for less experienced technicians. It’s also versatile, with various mounting options that accommodate a wide range of antenna types and sizes. Furthermore, the tool generates comprehensive reports, providing detailed documentation for analysis and record-keeping.

Industry acceptance
Sunsight’s AAT Mini has earned a strong reputation in the industry, with approval from all major carriers in the US. Its proven track record in delivering accurate and reliable antenna alignment has made it the go-to tool for many telecom professionals. 

Conclusion 

EXFO’s suite of 4G and 5G test solutions refine and improve the network testing process. We equipe operators, their contractors and equipment manufacturers field managed services teams with the optimal tools and workflows to navigate issues quickly, accurately and at each stage of the network lifecycle: construction, activation and maintenance. Ultimately, we help operators get more from their networks by ensuring the deployment and maintenance of high-quality wireless networks.

Sunsight’s AAT Mini Antenna Alignment Tool offers the perfect combination of comprehensive reporting, precision, efficiency, durability, and user-friendliness, making it an invaluable tool for both initial installations and ongoing network maintenance.

To find out more about the importance of precise antenna alignment: read our blog post.