Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to analyse cell performance and perform diagnostic tests and repairs on sub-elements and subsystems within cellular networks.
It applies to individuals working as field officers and technicians who may be responsible under supervision for small projects or parts of larger projects and for the coordination of projects in sites remote from the organisational headquarters.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare to test cellular network equipment | 1.1 Produce alarm list from cellular network subsystem that shows faults or disturbances 1.2 Reset sub-element according to manufacturer’s specifications 1.3 Clear or block alarms and adjust alarm thresholds according to manufacturer’s specifications |
2. Test cellular network sub-element equipment | 2.1 Test parameters influencing cell performance and record performance for a range of field settings 2.2 Test, record and report sub-element performance according to manufacturer’s specifications 2.3 Run diagnostic test on sub-element 2.4 Swap working or executing sub-element with spare or idle unit to allow software upgrades 2.5 Swap working or executing sub-element with spare or idle sub-element to allow replacement of hardware |
3. Rectify faults in cellular network equipment subsystems | 3.1 Locate faulty sub-element within subsystem and identify fault 3.2 Identify faulty parts or equipment and replace or repair according to service agreement 3.3 Record fault details and rectification summary 3.4 Hand over and sign off with client |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
prepare the cellular network alarm system
produce an alarm list and use this to locate faults
test cellular network parameters and performance
measure output power received around a cell
run diagnostic tests on sub-elements and subsystems
locate and repair faulty sub-elements and subsystems.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
explain anti-static protection and its importance and potential effect on cellular network equipment
summarise cellular antenna installation procedures
outline electrical concepts and measurements required for cellular network repairs
explain electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and mitigation
list the common network components and describe their basic functions
provide an overview of:
the progression of generations of cellular networks
features and operating requirements of test equipment
outline procedures for repairs and swap activities
summarise test operation of cellular network equipment
list and describe the tests required for network components
describe the importance of voltage levels and polarity
describe the precautions and actions required to minimise, control or eliminate hazards related to cellular network equipment installations.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances should be typical of those experienced in the telecommunications – radio frequency networks field of work and include access to:
a site for mobile phone network tests and measurements
performance testing software
relevant legislation and documentation to test and repair network equipment.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational education and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.2, 1.3, 2.2 | Recognises and interprets information from relevant sources to determine technical specifications |
Writing | 1.1, 2.1, 2.2, 3.3, 3.4 | Uses clear, specific and industry related terminology to complete and update workplace documentation and in written communications with clients |
Oral Communication | 3.4 | Liaises with internal and external personnel about technical requirements using specific and relevant language Uses listening and questioning techniques to confirm understanding |
Numeracy | 2.1-2.3 | Evaluates and reviews numerical information when interpreting measurements |
Get the work done | 1.2, 1.3, 2.1-2.5, 3.1, 3.2 | Determines job priorities and works logically and systematically to undertake clearly defined and familiar tasks Implements actions according to a predetermined plan, making slight adjustments if necessary and addressing some unexpected issues Takes responsibility for routine decision making by selecting from a range of predetermined options in routine situations, identifying and taking situational factors into account Diagnoses and implements standard solutions to network problems Understands the purposes and specific functions of common digital systems and uses them effectively to complete routine tasks |
Sectors
Telecommunications – radio frequency networks