F Cell B Cell E Figure 2-3. Hybrid SON example A hybrid SON solution is preferred for the following LTE optimization features: Enhanced intercell interference coordination PCID collision or confusion detection The SON deployment activities can be grouped into several phases, as described in the sections that follow. CHAPTER 2 SELF-ORGANIZING NETWORKS IN LTE DEPLOYMENT Planning and Provisioning Phase The planning phase of the SON is the phase wherein the operator decides first on the area for deployment. Depending on the coverage and capacity requirements, network planning needs to be performed. A planning tool is used extensively to create a network configuration and plans for the location for each of the network elements within the planned area to meet the capacity and coverage targets. Parameter planning is also part of this phase wherein the parameter settings for the eNodeBs are planned beforehand. Typically the parameters that need to be planned in this stage are the transmit power, antenna tilt, handover-related settings, and Tier-1 neighbor list. The PCID and root sequence index planning are also performed in the planning phase. Another important aspect of the planning phase is the transport network configuration planning, which enables the eNodeB to establish a link with other network elements like MME, neighboring eNodeBs, among others. Commissioning and Operation Phase This phase involves tasks like plug-and-play commissioning, during which the eNodeB automatically detects the hardware inventory by performing self-tests and brings itself up in an automatic manner. Upon bringing itself up, the eNodeB is able to download the new or upgraded software from a central location. Another important activity that is performed in this phase is the establishment of links with peer entities like MME or neighboring eNodeBs. During this phase, the eNodeB also performs automatic configuration by downloading some of the parameters from the central SON entity. More details on these processes are provided later in the cha