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ASSET COPYRIGHT © 2023 TEOCO Corporation or a TEOCO affiliate company.

User Reference Guide All rights reserved.

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Change History
This table shows the change history of this guide:

Edition Date Reason

1 21 September 2023 First edition.

 Introduction to ASSET
Table of Contents
1 Introduction to ASSET .................................................................................. 15
About This User Reference Guide ................................................................... 15
2 Setting Up a Project ...................................................................................... 17
Starting ASSET ............................................................................................... 17
Logging In to a Database ................................................................................. 17
Adopting an Open Session with Administrator Permissions ..................................... 19
Changing Your Password .......................................................................................... 19
Logging Out of a Database .............................................................................. 19
Creating a New Project .................................................................................... 20
Sharing Data between Projects ................................................................................. 22
Duplicating Projects ................................................................................................... 22
Defining the Project Settings ..................................................................................... 23
Exporting Project Settings ................................................................................ 29
Importing Project Settings ................................................................................ 30
Opening an Existing Project ............................................................................. 31
Defining the Project Load Options ................................................................... 32
Loading a Subset of Project Data (Site Region Load) ...................................... 33
How Region Loading Affects the Project ................................................................... 33
Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 1 ........................................................... 34
Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 2 ........................................................... 36
Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 3 ........................................................... 37
Setting Up Your Preferences ........................................................................... 38
Setting General Preferences ..................................................................................... 39
Setting Earth Radius Preferences ............................................................................. 40
Setting Network Preferences ..................................................................................... 41
Setting Technology Preferences ............................................................................... 42
Setting Diffraction Preferences .................................................................................. 42
Setting Candidate Options Preferences .................................................................... 43
Setting Filter and History Preferences ....................................................................... 44
Setting Electrical Tilts Preferences ............................................................................ 45
Enabling or Disabling Large Array Support within a Project ............................. 46
Defining the Site Database Settings ................................................................ 48
Customising the Object Count in the Site Database ......................................... 49
Defining the Map View Options ........................................................................ 50
About the New Project Default Objects ............................................................ 51
5 6
ASSET User Reference Guide
3 About the Core User Interface ..................................................................... 53
About the Tabs and Main Menu ....................................................................... 53
About the Main Toolbar in ASSET ................................................................... 53
About the Core Windows ................................................................................. 54
Displaying and Hiding Windows ................................................................................ 55
About Workspaces..................................................................................................... 56
About the Site Database Window .............................................................................. 61
About the Core Map View Window ............................................................................ 64
About the Equipment Windows ................................................................................. 73
About the Logical/Cellular Connection Database Window ........................................ 75
About the Message Log Window ............................................................................... 76
About the Wastebasket.............................................................................................. 76
About Add-Ins ............................................................................................................ 77
About the Licence Administrator ...................................................................... 77
Getting or Dropping Licences .................................................................................... 78
Commuting Licences ................................................................................................. 79
Editing your Startup Option ....................................................................................... 79
About the Distributed Task Agent Menu ........................................................... 80
4 Viewing and Editing Networks on the Map ................................................. 81
Using the Layer Control Pane .......................................................................... 81
Selecting Data Types to View on the Map................................................................. 82
Changing the Display Order of the Layers ................................................................ 83
Displaying and Changing Legend Information .......................................................... 84
Selecting an Item on the Map to Find it in the Site Database ........................... 84
Using the Tiled View ........................................................................................ 85
Viewing Web Maps .......................................................................................... 86
Adding, Moving and Deleting Network Elements on the Map ........................... 87
Setting a Default Network .......................................................................................... 87
Adding Properties ...................................................................................................... 88
Automatically Generating Sites/Nodes ...................................................................... 88
Adding Network Elements with a Selected Template ................................................ 89
Copying Network Elements ....................................................................................... 90
Deleting Network Elements ....................................................................................... 90
Moving Network Elements ......................................................................................... 91
Adding Logical and Cellular Connections on the Map ............................................... 92
About Displaying Site Visibility ......................................................................... 94
Displaying Site Visibility ............................................................................................. 95
Changing Antenna Heights Used in the Site Visibility Calculation ............................ 97
Zooming, Moving and Redrawing the Map ....................................................... 97
Zooming on the Map .................................................................................................. 98
Saving a Favourite (Home) Zoom Level .................................................................... 99
Shortcut Keys for Zooming ...................................................................................... 100
Repositioning (Panning) the Map ............................................................................ 100
Redrawing the Map .................................................................................................. 100
About the GIS Export of Map Layers.............................................................. 100
About Favourite Map Views ........................................................................... 101
Saving a Favourite View .......................................................................................... 102
Loading a Favourite View ........................................................................................ 103
Managing Favourite Views ...................................................................................... 104
 Introduction to ASSET
Searching the Map View Window with the Quick Finder ................................ 106
Using Jump To Location ................................................................................ 108
Examples of Searching by Regular Expression ............................................. 108
Other Regular Expressions Examples ..................................................................... 110
Viewing Map Information in Other Windows................................................... 111
Viewing Information about a Specific Pixel.............................................................. 111
Viewing Information in the Height Profile Window ................................................... 115
About the Master View............................................................................................. 124
Printing from the Map View ............................................................................ 125
Choosing the Legend Information for the Printouts ................................................. 125
Customising the Page Layout for Printing ............................................................... 125
Printing the Whole Map View .................................................................................. 126
Printing a Specific Area of the Map View ................................................................ 126
Printing a Map View to File ...................................................................................... 127
Using Third Party 3D Visualisation Tools ....................................................... 128
5 Generating Arrays and Reports for Analysis............................................ 129
About Arrays .................................................................................................. 129
About the Array File Formats ................................................................................... 130
About Large Array Support ...................................................................................... 130
Using the Array Manager ............................................................................... 131
Saving Arrays .......................................................................................................... 133
Loading Arrays ......................................................................................................... 134
Loading Arrays Generated by ARRAYWIZARD ...................................................... 135
Deleting Arrays ........................................................................................................ 136
Viewing Array Progress and Aborting Arrays .......................................................... 137
Viewing a Summary of Simulation Data .................................................................. 138
Displaying Arrays in the Map View ................................................................. 138
Displaying Arrays ..................................................................................................... 139
Viewing Array Iterations ........................................................................................... 140
Customising the Array Display Properties ............................................................... 141
Defining Display Schemas for Arrays ...................................................................... 144
Loading Display Schemas into the Array Display Properties .................................. 145
Producing Delta Difference Plots ................................................................... 146
Baseline Comparison ..................................................................................... 147
Using Graphical Analysis ............................................................................... 148
About the Pixel Analyser ................................................................................ 150
Using the Pixel Analyser to View Information ................................................. 151
Selecting the Arrays to Display in the Pixel Analyser .............................................. 153
Setting the Pixel Column Details in the Pixel Analyser ........................................... 154
Displaying Vector Analysis Plots ............................................................................. 156
About the Options Pane on the Pixel Analyser ....................................................... 158
Using the Pixel Analyser to Export Array Data ............................................... 159
Exporting Array Data to a Report for a Single Grid Location ................................... 159
Exporting Array Data to a Report Based on Multiple Points .................................... 160
Generating Statistical Reports for Arrays ....................................................... 164
Using the Statistics Dialog Box ................................................................................ 165
Results of the Statistical Reports for Arrays ............................................................ 168
How Polygons are considered in the Statistical Analysis ........................................ 170
7 8
ASSET User Reference Guide
6 Changing How Data Appears on the Map ................................................. 171
Controlling the Selection and Appearance of the Data ................................... 171
Customising How Text is Displayed ............................................................... 171
Customising How Height Data is Displayed ................................................... 172
Customising How Clutter is Displayed ........................................................... 173
Using the Automatic Map Resolution Option .................................................. 174
Customising How the Map Backdrop is Displayed ......................................... 175
Customising How Web Map Data is Displayed .............................................. 176
Customising the Map Grid and Scale Bar ...................................................... 177
Customising How Filters are Displayed .......................................................... 179
Quickly Changing How Items in Filters are Displayed ............................................. 180
Making Detailed Changes to the Display of Items in Filters .................................... 181
Changing the Shape of Symbols, Radials, Hexagons for Items in Filters ............... 182
Changing the Line for Items in Filters ...................................................................... 184
Changing the Fill for Items in Filters ........................................................................ 185
Changing the Colour Based on a Variable .............................................................. 185
Changing the Background of Items in Filters........................................................... 187
Changing the Visibility of Items in Filters ................................................................. 187
Changing the Display of Labels in Filters ................................................................ 188
Changing the Display of Service Areas in Filters .................................................... 189
Example of Displaying Properties According to Ground Height .............................. 189
Example of Displaying Address Information for Properties in Filters ...................... 192
Customising How Vector File Features are Displayed ................................... 193
Making Simple Changes to the Display of Vector File Features ............................. 194
Making Detailed Changes to the Display of Vector File Features ........................... 195
Changing the Fill Colour or Pattern of Vector File Features .................................... 196
Changing the Line Attributes of Vector File Features .............................................. 197
Changing the Visibility of Vector File Features ........................................................ 198
Changing the Labels of Vector File Features .......................................................... 198
Changing the Symbol of Points ............................................................................... 199
Changing the Symbol Appearance of Points ........................................................... 200
Changing the Appearance of (Vector) Text ............................................................. 201
Copying the Display Properties of Filters ....................................................... 201
Using Visualisers ........................................................................................... 201
Adding Visualisers ................................................................................................... 202
Changing the Display Properties of Visualisers ...................................................... 203
Copying and Resetting Display Properties of Visualisers ....................................... 203
Exporting and Importing Display Properties of Visualisers...................................... 203
Removing Visualisers .............................................................................................. 204
Viewing Attribute Data as Site Tips ................................................................ 204
7 Saving Data to the Database ...................................................................... 207
Saving Your Changes to the Database .......................................................... 207
Applying Your Data .................................................................................................. 207
Committing Your Data ............................................................................................. 208
Committing All Your Data in the Dialog Box ............................................................ 208
Committing All Your Data in the Project .................................................................. 209
Restoring Your Data ................................................................................................ 209
Examples of Using Apply and Commit .................................................................... 210
Logging Out and Logging In Recommendation .............................................. 212
 Introduction to ASSET
Using Refresh to Update Network Elements .................................................. 213
Example of Using Apply, Commit and Refresh ....................................................... 214
About the Refresh Functionality and Database Warnings .............................. 215
Saving Sandbox Changes to the Database.................................................... 215
Checking Blocked Actions between Different Users....................................... 217
Resolving Commit Failures ............................................................................ 218
Generating Reports of Uncommitted Changes ............................................... 220
Using the Version Reporter ............................................................................ 221
8 Viewing and Editing the Site Database ..................................................... 223
Using Templates for Network Elements ......................................................... 224
Creating a Template for a Network Element ........................................................... 225
Creating a Template from an Existing Network Element ......................................... 226
Editing and Copying Templates ............................................................................... 227
Deleting a Template................................................................................................. 228
Choosing the View in the Site Database ........................................................ 228
Refreshing the Display of Network Elements in Site Database ............................... 229
Selecting Which Tabs to Display in Site Database ................................................. 230
Opening the Site Database at a Particular Site ....................................................... 231
Using the Map View to Find Elements in Site Database ......................................... 231
Creating a PLMN Network or Logical Network ............................................... 232
About Properties ............................................................................................ 233
Viewing Properties in the Site Database ................................................................. 233
Viewing and Changing Address and Contact Details .............................................. 235
Adding and Deleting Network Elements in the Site Database ........................ 237
Adding Properties and Sites/Nodes Simultaneously ............................................... 238
Adding Network Elements Based on Templates ..................................................... 240
Deleting Network Elements in the Site Database .................................................... 241
Adding Logical and Cellular Connections in the Site Database ...................... 243
Making Changes to Network Elements in Site Database ............................... 245
About the Tabs in the Site Database Window ......................................................... 245
Making Global Changes to Network Elements ............................................... 250
What Data Can You Edit Globally? ......................................................................... 251
Reparenting Network Elements ..................................................................... 252
9 Using Vector File Features ......................................................................... 255
About the Vector Manager ............................................................................. 256
Configuring Vector Files................................................................................. 257
Importing Vector File Data ............................................................................. 258
MapInfo Vectors - Coordinate System Conversion ................................................. 259
Exporting Vector File Data ............................................................................. 260
Troubleshooting Vector Files ......................................................................... 260
Classifying User Vector Files ......................................................................... 260
9 10
ASSET User Reference Guide
Creating Your Own Vector File Features ....................................................... 263
Creating a Region Polygon ...................................................................................... 266
Defining Attributes for a Vector File Feature ........................................................... 268
Setting Values for the Attributes .............................................................................. 269
Editing Lines and Polygons ..................................................................................... 273
Creating Holes or Islands for Polygons ................................................................... 274
Saving Vectors ......................................................................................................... 276
Exporting Vectors .................................................................................................... 276
10 Using Filters and Fields .............................................................................. 279
Using Fields in ASSET................................................................................... 279
Examples of Field Definitions .................................................................................. 280
Viewing and Editing Fields for Network Elements ................................................... 281
Using Filters in ASSET .................................................................................. 282
Purpose and Uses of Filters .................................................................................... 283
Creating a Dynamic Filter using the Filter Wizard ................................................... 283
Creating a Static Filter using the Filter Wizard ........................................................ 288
Editing and Deleting Filters ...................................................................................... 290
Organising Filters ..................................................................................................... 291
Copying Filters ......................................................................................................... 292
Example Filters ........................................................................................................ 293
Filtering Objects by their Technology and Activity Settings ..................................... 299
About the Selection Expert and Selection Filter ...................................................... 301
Making Your Dynamic Filters More Efficient............................................................ 312
Displaying Filters ..................................................................................................... 315
Exporting Filters using XML Export ......................................................................... 316
11 Managing Antennas and Equipment ......................................................... 317
Managing Antennas and Equipment using Folders ........................................ 317
Storing Antennas in the Database ................................................................. 318
Using the Cellular Antennas Dialog Box ........................................................ 319
About the Tabs on the Cellular Antennas Dialog Box ............................................. 321
About the Filter Option in the Cellular Antennas Dialog Box ................................... 322
About the Display Options in the Cellular Antennas Dialog Box ............................. 322
Adding Antenna Devices ......................................................................................... 323
About Switched Beam Antennas ............................................................................. 325
Creating Beam Sets ................................................................................................. 326
Adding Patterns to an Antenna Device .................................................................... 329
About the Azimuth Offset ......................................................................................... 331
Using the Basic Search for Cellular Antennas ........................................................ 332
Using the Hierarchy Tab to View, Delete or Reparent Patterns .............................. 332
Deleting Antenna Devices and Patterns .................................................................. 333
Editing or Moving Antenna Devices and Patterns ................................................... 334
Viewing Pathlosses for Patterns .............................................................................. 335
Comparing Two Patterns ......................................................................................... 336
About the Context Menu on the Tree Tab ............................................................... 337
Using the Advanced Search for Antennas............................................................... 338
Using the Switched Beam Antenna Utility ...................................................... 346
Digitally Splitting Antennas ............................................................................ 348
Using the Planet PAFX Antenna Import ......................................................... 349
Using the Planet Antenna Utility..................................................................... 350
 Introduction to ASSET
Adding Microwave Antennas ......................................................................... 351
Adding Microwave Antenna Patterns ...................................................................... 352
Editing the Mask Data for Microwave Antennas ...................................................... 354
Editing, Moving and Deleting Microwave Antennas ................................................ 355
Storing Equipment in the Database ............................................................... 356
Creating Site (BTS) Equipment ............................................................................... 356
Creating Cell Equipment .......................................................................................... 357
Creating Cabins ....................................................................................................... 358
Creating Feeders ..................................................................................................... 359
Creating Masts ......................................................................................................... 360
Creating Mast Head Amplifiers ................................................................................ 361
Viewing and Changing Equipment Suppliers Details .............................................. 362
12 Using Propagation Models ......................................................................... 363
How Many Propagation Models are Required? .............................................. 363
About the Accuracy Required for a Propagation Model .................................. 364
About the Supplied Propagation Models ........................................................ 364
About the Standard Macrocell Models ..................................................................... 367
About the DHM Model ............................................................................................. 370
About the Enhanced Macrocell Model ..................................................................... 370
About the Free Space Loss Model .......................................................................... 371
About the MYRIAD Model........................................................................................ 371
About the Volcano Models ....................................................................................... 372
About the SUI Model................................................................................................ 376
About the SLR Model............................................................................................... 377
About the ASSET Propagation Model ..................................................................... 377
Adding and Editing Propagation Models ........................................................ 378
Configuring a Standard Macrocell Model ................................................................ 379
Configuring a DHM Model ....................................................................................... 381
Configuring an Enhanced Macrocell Model ............................................................. 381
Configuring a Free Space Loss Model .................................................................... 383
Configuring a SUI Model.......................................................................................... 383
Configuring an SLR Model....................................................................................... 385
Configuring an ASSET Propagation Model ............................................................. 385
Deleting a Propagation Model ................................................................................. 386
About Multiple Height Pathloss Predictions .................................................... 386
Model Types Supported by Multiple Height Capability ............................................ 388
Specifying Additional Heights on the Propagation Model........................................ 389
About the Receiver Heights Mode in the Coverage Analysis Wizard ..................... 390
Generating Multiple Height-specific Arrays in a Simulation ..................................... 390
Recommended Mapping Data for Propagation Models .................................. 391
Countrywide Dataset Mapping Data ........................................................................ 391
Urban Datasets Mapping Data ................................................................................ 391
High Resolution Datasets Mapping Data................................................................. 392
13 Working with Data ....................................................................................... 393
Using Nominal and Candidate Properties ...................................................... 393
Adding Nominals and Candidates in the Site Database .......................................... 393
About the Candidate Options on the Toolbar .......................................................... 394
Adding Nominals and Candidates in the Map View Window................................... 395
Displaying Candidates and Nominals in the Map View ........................................... 398
Removing Candidate Status from a Property .......................................................... 400
What Happens When Search Areas Overlap? ........................................................ 400
11
ASSET User Reference Guide
Viewing and Editing Logical/Cellular Connections.......................................... 401
Adding Routes and Hops to a Logical/Cellular Connection..................................... 403
Viewing and Editing the Traffic on a Logical/Cellular Connection ........................... 404
About Using GPS........................................................................................... 405
Positioning the GPS Receiver ................................................................................. 406
Using GPS ............................................................................................................... 406
Setting Default Identifiers ............................................................................... 407
Converting Files ............................................................................................. 408
Editing the Map Data ..................................................................................... 409
Editing Terrain Height .............................................................................................. 409
Editing Clutter Types ............................................................................................... 409
Editing Building Heights ........................................................................................... 412
Using Attachments......................................................................................... 414
Using Photographs ........................................................................................ 414
Associating a Photograph with Equipment .............................................................. 414
Associating a Photograph with a Network Element ................................................. 415
14 Importing and Exporting ............................................................................ 417
Importing Data ............................................................................................... 417
Importing ASSET Data ............................................................................................ 417
Importing XML Data ................................................................................................. 418
Using the 3GPP Import/Export ................................................................................ 422
Importing PlaNet/EET Data ..................................................................................... 423
Importing Property Data........................................................................................... 425
Importing GSM Data ................................................................................................ 426
Importing CellOpt Data ............................................................................................ 426
Importing Vector File Data ....................................................................................... 427
Exporting Data ............................................................................................... 429
Exporting ASSET Data ............................................................................................ 429
Exporting XML Data ................................................................................................. 430
Exporting 3GPP Data .............................................................................................. 435
Exporting Filters ....................................................................................................... 437
Exporting Vector File Data ....................................................................................... 438
Exporting PlaNet/EET Data ..................................................................................... 438
Exporting Property Data .......................................................................................... 439
Exporting CellOpt Data ............................................................................................ 439
Exporting Web Service Data.................................................................................... 440
Exporting Map Layers using GIS Export ........................................................ 441
Preparation for the GIS Export ................................................................................ 441
Performing the GIS Export....................................................................................... 442
Using the XML Data Editor ............................................................................ 444
About the XML Data Editor User Interface .............................................................. 444
Setting Preferences for the XML Data Editor .......................................................... 446
Opening and Closing XML Files .............................................................................. 447
Editing and Deleting Data ........................................................................................ 448
Viewing and Editing Antenna XML Files .................................................................. 449
Changing the Display of Data in the XML Data Editor ............................................ 450
Using Advanced Filtering and Sorting ..................................................................... 451
Creating New XML Data Files ................................................................................. 453
Editing Fields ........................................................................................................... 454
Copying and Pasting Data in the XML Data Editor ................................................. 454
Using the XML Data Editor with Microsoft Excel ..................................................... 456
Using the XML Data Editor with CSV Files.............................................................. 457
Updating an ASSET Project with the Edited Data ................................................... 458
12
 Introduction to ASSET ASSET User Reference Guide

Importing and Exporting Equipment ............................................................... 459

Exporting Equipment ............................................................................................... 459
Modifying the All Equipment File for Re-Import of Data .......................................... 459
Importing Equipment................................................................................................ 460
Importing and Exporting User Settings ........................................................... 461
Exporting User Settings ........................................................................................... 461
Importing User Settings ........................................................................................... 462
Deleting User Settings ............................................................................................. 462

15 About the Grid Data Loader ....................................................................... 463

Before Using the Grid Data Loader ................................................................ 464
Basic Difference between Insert and Update ................................................. 465
Hierarchy and Information Flow ..................................................................... 465
Guidelines for the Grid Data Loader............................................................... 466
Using the Grid Data Loader ........................................................................... 467
Setting Preferences ................................................................................................. 468
Setting the Header Row........................................................................................... 470
Inserting and Deleting Columns .............................................................................. 471
Integrating the Site Database Reports with the Grid Data Loader .......................... 472
Using Site Database Reports Data as Input to Grid Data Loader ........................... 474
Loading Data from a File ......................................................................................... 475
Manually Editing the Data Rows .............................................................................. 477
Inserting and Deleting Rows .................................................................................... 478
Editing the Data Rows Using Copy and Paste ........................................................ 479
Editing the Data Rows Using Paste Special ............................................................ 480
About the Validation Messages ............................................................................... 481
Exporting (Saving) a File ......................................................................................... 482
Creating a New File ................................................................................................. 482
Valid Headers for Each Object Type .............................................................. 483
Sample Header Row Files ....................................................................................... 483
Object Type: Property .............................................................................................. 484
Object Type: MU-Node ............................................................................................ 486
Object Type: Cell ..................................................................................................... 488
Object Type: Property (for ASSET Backhaul) ......................................................... 500
Object Type: Point to Multi Point Link ...................................................................... 501
Object Type: Multi Band Link ................................................................................... 501
Object Type: Multi Radio Link .................................................................................. 502
Object Type: Repeater............................................................................................. 503
Object Type: Point to Point Link .............................................................................. 504
Object Type: Reflector ............................................................................................. 504
Object Type: Dual Polar Link ................................................................................... 505
About Antenna Indexes ........................................................................................... 506
About the Location Parameters ............................................................................... 507
Examples of Use Cases................................................................................. 508
1 - Creating New MU-Nodes (INSERT mode) ......................................................... 508
2 - Creating New Properties, Nodes, Cells, Antennas (INSERT mode) .................. 509
3 - Modifying a Data Parameter of an MU-Node (UPDATE mode) ......................... 511
4 - Modifying an Antenna Parameter using Cell Identity (UPDATE mode) ............. 512
5 - Changing a Physical Antenna Assignment (UPDATE mode) ............................ 513

Index............................................................................................................. 515

13 14
 Introduction to ASSET ASSET User Reference Guide

Read For Information On

1 Introduction to ASSET Chapter 6 Changing how items appear on the map
Changing the display of filters, with examples
The ASSET suite of products incorporates a range of advanced tools which provide valuable Chapter 7 Saving Data to the Database
integrated support in the areas of radio network planning and transmission planning. As well as Apply, Commit, Restore, Refresh
operating standalone, the tools can operate seamlessly together, sharing critical information without
duplication. Saving Sandbox Changes to the Database
Chapter 8 Using Templates for Network elements
The ASSET products link to a common industry standard relational database (RDBMS) where you
can store all your network data. In addition, ASSET products use the same user-friendly Adding and editing network elements in the Site Database window
Geographical Information System (GIS) to give you a common interface. Making global changes to items

The main ASSET products are: Applying and Committing

Chapter 9 Configuring vector files
Product Description
Creating polygons, lines, points and text
Administrator For specifying and configuring your database, projects and users Chapter 10 Creating filters
ASSET Radio* Radio network planning and analysis for cellular networks Creating fields
ARRAYWIZARD Automated tool for pathloss predictions and coverage arrays Chapter 11 Storing antennas
ASSET Backhaul Network transmission and microwave link planning software Storing equipment
Chapter 12 Creating and using propagation models
*There are also other products that ASSET Radio can integrate with:
Chapter 13 Using nominal and candidate Properties
 ASSET Capacity - Dimensions end-to-end mobile networks and transmission layers, from
base stations to media gateways. Viewing and editing logical /cellular connections

 ASSET Design - Searches for the optimal network design, based on specific planning Chapter 14 Importing and exporting data in a variety of formats
objectives, including addition of new small cells. Chapter 15 Using the Grid Data Loader
 ASSET Geo - Enables the use of geo-located traffic and performance maps to assist the
planning process. There is also a separate ASSET Technical Reference Guide, which contains information on the
following:

About This User Reference Guide Read For Information On

Chapter 1 Map data file formats used in ASSET

This User Reference Guide describes functionality that is common to more than one tool in the
ASSET suite, such as Projects, Map View, Arrays, Filters, Equipment. Functionality that is specific Chapter 2 General file formats used in ASSET
to a tool (such as the Simulator in ASSET Radio, or the Link Database in ASSET Backhaul) is Chapter 3 XML file formats used in ASSET
described in the tool-specific User Reference Guide.
Chapter 4 Miscellaneous vendor and third party file formats used in ASSET
This table shows where to look for information in the ASSET User Reference Guide: Chapter 5 Antenna and Diffraction Calculations

Read For Information On Chapter 6 Interfaces and APIs

Chapter 7 Chinese Character Support
Chapter 2 Starting ASSET
Chapters 8-12 Information about algorithms, arrays and outputs specific to ASSET Radio
Setting up a project
Setting your preferences
Chapter 3 Basic components of the user interface
Chapter 4 Adding and editing network elements in the Map View window
Displaying items in the Map View window
Moving around the map and zooming
Chapter 5 Using the Array Manager
Displaying arrays in the Map View
Using the Pixel Analyser to view information and export array data
Generating statistical reports for arrays

15 16
 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

The Database Login dialog box appears:

2 Setting Up a Project

ASSET uses projects as a way of grouping your network data within the database. Each project
can be configured differently and you can share data across projects.

Starting ASSET
Once your system administrator has set up the database and created a user account for you, you
can start ASSET and create a new project ready for planning work.

To start ASSET:
From the Windows Start Menu, select Start>All Programs>TEOCO>ASSET V2023
Q4>TEOCO ASSET Suite

The main toolbar appears along the top of the screen. The title bar summarises the database,
project and user details. The tabs correspond to the different modules available, depending on
which modules have been licensed.

Here is an example:
2. In the Database Login dialog box, ensure the correct database is shown in the Data
Source box.

3. Choose whether to log into ASSET:

o By typing in a username and password as set up by your administrator.
o Automatically, using authentication from the operating system (OS) where you are
connected automatically to the database if the server confirms that you exist. This
means you do not have to use a separate password here. For information on setting
Example of tabs - these correspond to the different modules that have been licensed and installed
this up, see the ASSET Installation and Administration Guide.

4. Click Login.
Simultaneous Login to Multiple Projects
If you belong to the Administrators group or have been made a member of a Sandbox then
It is possible for the same ASSET user to log in to two or more separate projects in the same the Login Type dialog box appears.
database with write access (dependent on permissions), by starting multiple instances of ASSET.
Write access to each project is achieved by using separate instances of the ASSET client. If you belong to the Administrators group you have the choice of:
o Logging in as yourself.
If the user logs into the same project twice, the second instance of the project will be read-only.
This rule is the same for master projects and sub-projects. Also, for the second instance of the o Logging in as another user who is not already logged into the project. For example, to
project, any 'All Projects' options in Equipment or Antenna dialogs will be read-only. create new objects on their behalf.

This can be on the same machine, or different machines. Each instance will consume a licence. If you are a member of one or more Sandboxes then you can log in to a Sandbox.

Note: A sandbox is an optional environment within ASSET in which users can experiment
with network changes and can see each other's applied changes without having to commit
Logging In to a Database them and without making them visible to other users. For more information on how
administrators give users access to Sandboxes, see the ASSET Installation and
Before you can log in to a database, an administrator must have used the ASSET Administrator Administration Guide.
program to set you up as an authorised user of a database. For information on using this product,
see the ASSET Installation and Administration Guide. Select which user to log in as. If you choose to log into a Sandbox and your administrator
has given you access to more than one, select the required Sandbox from the drop-down
To log in to a database: list of those available.
1. Ensure the Database Login dialog box is open. When you have made the required selections in the Login Type dialog box, click OK.

Also see Saving Sandbox Changes to the Database on page 215.

If it is not, from the File menu, click Login or click the Login button .

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

Adopting an Open Session with Administrator Permissions Creating a New Project

Using the username and password for an administrator account, you can make changes that your When you have logged into a database, the Project Manager dialog box appears. This picture
own user permissions may not ordinarily allow. shows an example:
To adopt your own open session, or that of another user - either at the user's PC or remotely
using appropriate software, with administrator permissions:

1. When you are logged on or the other user whose session you wish to adopt is logged on,
click the Utilities tab.

2. From the Tools menu, click Adopt Session.

3. Type in a username and password for an administrator account, then click OK.

4. Make the changes required. All these changes are credited to the logged on user.

5. From the Tools menu, click Cancel Adopt Session to stop the adopted session and return
the logged on user’s normal permissions.

Changing Your Password

To change your password:

1. Click the Utilities tab.

2. From the Tools menu, click Change Password.

3. Type in your existing password.

4. Type in your new password.

5. Type in your new password again.

6. Click OK.

Logging Out of a Database

Whenever you close ASSET, It is always recommended to Log Out of the database first. This is
because the logging out procedure clears any 'left-over' data that might cause future problems with
Apply and Commit.

To log out of a database:

Project Manager dialog box

1. Click the Close Project button to close the project.
After projects have been created, the Project Manager dialog box shows all projects that are
currently available within the database.
2. Click the Logout button to log out of the database.

If appropriate, you can then close the ASSET application. (When all projects are closed, you can access this dialog box by clicking the button in the
main toolbar.)

Note: If you simply want to start an existing project, see Opening an Existing Project on page 31.

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

To create a new project:

Sharing Data between Projects
1. In the Project Manager dialog box, click Add.

2. If you have no existing projects, go to step 3. If you have existing projects, the Table Sharing data between projects in the same database is useful in countries where the radio network
Selection dialog box appears: spans more than one co-ordinate projection system. For example, Australia could span seven
different UTM projection zones, each requiring different settings to obtain the correct co-ordinate
conversion between spherical co-ordinates (latitude/longitude) and Cartesian co-ordinates (grid).

In this case, it would be possible to set up seven different projects, one for each set of map data but
have them all connected to the same set of database tables containing network data.

You could also use shared data in conjunction with loading a region or subset of a project. For
example, you could have one project where all the sites are visible and a number of sub-projects
each with different load areas.

Shared projects are shown in the project list as a hierarchy, with the project (chosen to share its
data) at the top level and the newer project appearing as a sub-folder. Only two levels are
permitted:

Choose either:
o New Project data (if you want no interdependency between this project and any
existing projects)
- or -
o Share existing Project data (if you want this to be a dependent sub-project of an
existing project) Shared Projects shown in the project list

Warning: Only share data if your map data cannot be contained within a single projection Important: If you have anything shared between projects, for example antennas, and you export
or zone as then you will need multiple projects to accurately model the site co-ordinates. and re-import as a new project in the same database you will get a message telling you that you
You cannot share projects whose project data is already shared. For more information, see are re-importing duplicate information. This message appears for each data point on an antenna,
Sharing Data between Projects on page 22. so ideally, do not try and re-import items that are shared between projects.

3. If you choose to share project data, select the project whose data you want to share from
the drop-down list.
This project will subsequently appear at the top level of the tree shown in the Project Duplicating Projects
Manager dialog box with the new project shown underneath.
If you are an Administrator User, a Regional Super User, a Power User or a member of the
4. If ASSET has been set up with a settings database schema, the Project Defaults field is Administrators group, you can duplicate a project or sub-project by using the Duplicate button in
enabled in the Table Selection dialog box. You can use the browse button to select a .stt the Project Manager dialog box. For more information, see the ASSET Installation and
file containing user settings to be used as defaults in the new project. For more information Administration Guide.
about the settings schema, see Database Settings Management in the ASSET Installation
and Administration Guide. For more information on storing user settings see Importing and
Exporting User Settings on page 461.

5. In the Project Manager dialog box, set up your:

a. Project Settings, as described in Defining the Project Settings on page 23.
b. Project Load Options, as described in Defining the Project Load Options on page 32.

6. When you have entered all the required information on the tabs, click OK.

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

The alternative settings you define will be retained and become active whenever the checkbox is
Defining the Project Settings selected. When you deselect the checkbox, the database directory settings revert to those set by
your administrator.
To access the Project Settings:
Notes:
In the Project Manager dialog box, select the required project and click Settings to access
the project settings.  If you have created user vectors that you want to use on the laptop, you will need to import
The Project Settings dialog box appears. This picture shows an example: the vector files to your new folder.
 If you duplicate a project when Override Database Directory Settings is ticked, the local
directory paths stored in the registry are not duplicated. You can export the overridden
values using the Export button in the Project Settings dialog box, and then import them
using the Import button in the Project Settings dialog box of the duplicated project.

About the Coord System Tab

The map co-ordinate system is used to translate between geographic co-ordinates and Cartesian
co-ordinates based on the projection system which the mapping data uses. It is important to set this
correctly because mapping data is only valid for the particular co-ordinate system to which it
relates.

ASSET is designed to work with one (and only one) map data projection per project. The projection
settings for the project MUST match the settings for the map data that will be used since the map
data is stored in Cartesian not spherical co-ordinates.

On the Coord System tab of the project settings, you can set the co-ordinate system to be used for
the map data. See Setting the EPSG Values on page 24.

Note: On this tab you can also import and export your project settings.

Setting the EPSG Values

The Projected EPSG and the Geodetic EPSG values can be edited manually, if you already know
The dialog box contains several tabs, which are described in the following sections. the values.

However, if preferred, you can select from tables of values, as follows:

Tip: Within an open project, you can view these settings in a read-only mode, by clicking View
Project Settings from the File menu. 1. On the Coord System tab of the Project Settings, for the Projected EPSG, click the
Configure button.

2. In the dialog box that appears, select the required setting:

Overriding Database Directory Settings
Your ASSET administrator should have configured the database directory settings for all the
projects stored in the database, so you will not usually need to override database directory settings.

However, if you are working remotely with a copy of the database on a laptop and no longer have a
connection to the map data file server, you can override the global settings by selecting the
Override Database Directory Settings checkbox, then setting these directories to be your local
ones (this depends if you have the permission to do this).

This will affect the following tabs:

 Map data directories
 Shared data directories
 Map Data Extents
 Region Load

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

3. For the Geodetic EPSG, either: This table describes what you can specify:
o Click the Configure button, and, in the dialog box that appears, select the required Path or Setting Description
setting
- or - System preferences The path to the folder where system-wide Favourite views will be stored
(accessible to all users).
o Click the 'Set from projected' button.
User preferences The path to the folder where your own Favourite views will be stored.
4. Click OK. Prediction directory The path to the folder where all your pathloss predictions will be stored. You
can also view any prediction folders already known to the database, using the
drop-down box.
Tips:
Important: You should ensure that all users of this project have adequate
 For both values, you can use the 'Find' box to search for any numbers or names. read/write permissions for the files and folders in the specified directory.
 On the Coord System tab of the Project Settings, you can also import and export your Maximum prediction disk A value that represents the maximum disk space you want to reserve for the
project settings. space storage of prediction files. For more information, see About the File Caching
System for Predictions and Arrays on page 26.
Colour palette The path to a text file that details the RGB values for the 253 colours that are
used in your project. This is optional. If you do not specify anything, a default
About the Map Data Directories Tab will be used.
Output array directory The path to the folder where you want output arrays to be saved.
On the Map Data Directories tab of the project settings, specify the locations that contain the
various index files for the map data categories you are using (for example, clutter, heights and so Max array disk space A value that represents the maximum disk space you want to reserve for the
on). You can either use the Browse option to find the directory, or type in the pathname. storage of array files. For more information, see About the File Caching System
for Predictions and Arrays on page 26.
Archive Folder The path to the archive folder for what-if scenarios generated by the Simulator.
Important: It is essential that you set up your map data directories to point to the correct folders. If The folder will contain one or more iterations of output from the Simulator which
your map data does not contain a particular category, leave the box for that type of data blank. individually contain stored arrays and, if requested, a subset representation of
the data model at that time. These sets of cell and property parameters can be
Tip: In the Backdrops box, you can specify a path to a folder that can contain map backdrops and used later for visualisation purposes in the Map View, in the form of Map Info
aerial photos as sub-folders. For example: TAB\DAT files.
User line (vector) data The path to the folder where user vectors (lines, polygons or points) will be
stored. Depending on your set-up, this may be:
 Your own user vectors only
 The user vectors for everyone in your User Group
 All user vectors that exist in the database
An index file and data file(s) should exist in each of the sub-directories.
Note: This depends whether the paths to other people's user vectors are
shared. If the user vector folder is shared between users, you should be aware
that any folder deletion will impact other users trying to use that folder until they
restart that project.
About the Shared Data Directories Tab If you want to edit other people's user vectors, you will need the correct
permissions, which are set by your administrator.
On the Shared Data Directories tab of the project settings, you can specify directory paths for
different categories of shared data, such as Prediction File folders, User Vectors and Favourite Web cache directory The path to the folder where web maps and WMS information will be cached.
For more information, see About the Web Maps Cache Folder on page 27.
views. You can do this either by typing the path, or using the Browse option.
Max web disk space Maximum size of the Web Cache folder.

Note: If your map data does not contain a particular category, leave the box for that type of data Working data folder If you intend to launch ASSET Design and/or ASSET Capacity from within
blank. ASSET Radio, you need to specify a path to the folder to be used for sharing
the project data. For more information, see 'Using ASSET Radio with Related
Products' in the ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.

Important:
About the File Caching System for Predictions and Arrays
 It is strongly recommended that you do not share the same directory paths between
different databases. Files relating to created predictions and arrays contain data that can be freshly regenerated at any
time, but, as this process takes time, it is more efficient to store the files on the disk every time they
 It is also recommended that you set these directory paths to be unique per project (rather are created, and manage them as a cache of precalculated data.
than shared between projects), and enter paths to directories that are currently empty.
Therefore, in ASSET Radio, the concept behind the storage of these files is that they are stored on
The above advice is especially applicable to the Prediction directory and Output Array directory,
disk and remain stored, even if they become 'invalid' due to changes to the cell parameters or
because it simplifies the management of these files.
locations. The major benefit of this is that they can be reused whenever they become 'valid' again.

25 26
 Setting Up a Project
It is evident from the above approach that, on some occasions, the disk might become full and
consist of many unwanted files.
For this reason, these files are automatically managed within ASSET Radio by a caching algorithm,
which can dispose of unwanted files on the basis of specific criteria, such as the elapsed time since
the file was last loaded.
As a vital input to this algorithm, you must set the maximum disk space for the storage of these
files, for the prediction folder and output array folder, which are specified on the Shared Data
Directories tab of the Project Settings dialog box.
Notes:
 The default value represents 80% of the free disk space on the drive(s) where the
prediction folder and array folder exist.
 The specified settings for maximum disk space are stored in configuration files in the root of
the Prediction folder and the Output Array folder.
 A setting of 0 for Max prediction disk space would result the deletion of all pathloss
predictions. To prevent this from happening you can either:
o Set the following registry key to 1:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\AIRCOM
International\ENTERPRISE\23.4\Prediction\PreventAutoDeletePrediction
- or -
o Include a file called DO_NOT_DELETE_PREDS.txt in the Prediction directory for the
project
The concept of the File Management System is also described in the 'Predicting Pathloss and
Displaying Coverage' chapter of the ASSET Radio User Reference Guide, including the speed,
efficiency and benefits involved in the creation and loading of files.
For information on the caching algorithm itself, see the 'Prediction and Array File Management
System' chapter in the ASSET Technical Reference Guide.
About the Web Maps Cache Folder
The cache folder that you have specified for Web Maps on the User Data Directories tab can be
shared between multiple users. Map data downloaded and processed by one user is then available
to other users. This sharing is appropriate if the cache folder is on a network and the same project
is used from different machines. In some cases, the cache folder can be shared between different
projects.
The cache folder should only be shared where these are identical for all the projects sharing it:
 The Map Data Extents
 The coordinate system projection EPSG
 The list of WMS services configured for the project
You must delete the contents of the cache folder if:
 The Map Data Extents of the owning project are altered
 The coordinate system projection EPSG is altered
 WMS Services are removed (deletion is not required if you only ever add services)
You can delete Individual files from the cache folder as required. This might be necessary in the
case of an error leading to an invalid file in the cache. Manual deletion avoids having to wait for the
natural expiry of the file.
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ASSET User Reference Guide
About the Map Data Extents Tab
On the Map Data Extents tab of the project settings, click Calculate for ASSET to read the map
data and set the grid co-ordinates so that the whole of the mapped area can be viewed. An
automatic border of 5% is included.
This means that when the map is first opened, it will display the correct part of the world.
Tip: If the extents look incorrect, it is likely that erroneous points exist in one of the map data index
files.
If you require only a part of the mapped area, then these can be set manually to cover a smaller
area, by entering the grid co-ordinates of the extent of the map that you want to be visible in the
Map View window.
About the Region Load Tab
You can use the Region Load tab of the project settings to load only sites or nodes in a specified
region, which can be either a polygon or rectangle. By loading a subset of site data, ASSET can run
faster.
For information about how to load a region, see Loading a Subset of Project Data (Site Region
Load) on page 33.
About the Info Tab
You can use the Info tab of the project settings to add supplementary information about your
project. This tab displays the time and date when the project was created and when it was last
modified.
If required, you can enter a brief description of the project and any further comments related to it.
About the Simulation Distribution Tab
If you have ASSET Radio installed, the project settings will contain a Simulation Distribution tab.
On this tab, you set up the folders that will be used for storing distributed simulations. These make
use of extra processing power by enabling you to perform simulation snapshots on a collection of
networked PCs then merge the results.
For this to work, one computer (called the Server) will be running ASSET and will control all the
other computers. Multiple other computers (clients) will be either running ASSET or the ASSET
Radio Simulator Client Software.
The client computers process *.3gr files. They are loaded from the central location, visible to all the
Clients, snapshots are run on the files, then they are saved back to their original locations. The
server is used to set up what client computers are to be used, and what files are to be run.
To set up the folders for distributed simulations:
1. Ensure that you have the correct permissions to use distribution. If you do not, see your
administrator.
2. On the Simulation Distribution tab, specify a Distribution Folder. This folder is where
ASSET will store all *.3gr files used for distribution. The distribution clients will also pick up
their files from this location, so the folder needs to be accessible to all computers
participating in Distribution. For example:
\\server\shared\ASSET_Distribution.
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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

3. For each database user who is permitted to use Distribution, create a sub-folder under the
distribution folder, which has the same name as the database user. For example, if the Importing Project Settings
database user is demouser, the folder created in the distribution folder would be
\\server\share\ASSET_Distribution\demouser.
If you have exported project settings as described above, you can import these settings into
another project.
Note: The Use Distributed Sim Load option is also on this tab. It does not relate to the simulation
distribution referred to above, but to a separate function enabling the simulator to make use of To import project settings:
distributed array agents. This is a performance enhancing function that is enabled by default, but
which you can turn off by deselected this option if problems with it are encountered. 1. In the Project Settings dialog box, click the Import Settings button.

2. Click the Import button.

Assuming the Override Database Directory Settings checkbox* was not selected in the
Exporting Project Settings Project Settings dialog box, a warning appears to inform you that you are about to
overwrite all project settings.
Having completed the project settings, you can export them for use in other projects. 3. Click Yes.
To export project settings: The XML Import dialog box appears:

1. In the Project Settings dialog box, click the Export Settings button.
The XML Export dialog box appears:

2. Type or browse to the path of the folder where your exported file is to be kept.
3. Select the 'Project Settings' checkbox.
4. Click the Export button.
Your project settings xml file is exported to the specified folder.
Tip: You can also export project settings when you have a project open. To do this, from the File
menu, click View Project Settings, and then click the Export Settings button.
29
4. Type or browse to the path of the folder where your project settings xml file is kept.
5. Ensure the Project Settings checkbox is selected.
6. Click Import.
7. Click Close.
Your project settings are imported and will be visible on the tabs of the Project Settings
dialog box.
*If the Override Database Directory Settings checkbox was selected, you would instead
overwrite all the database overrides. If you accept, the database overrides are imported and will be
visible on the applicable tabs of the Project Settings dialog box. See Overriding Database
Directory Settings.
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 Setting Up a Project
Opening an Existing Project
When you have logged into a database, the Project Manager dialog box appears, showing any
projects that are currently available within the database.
Note: For information on how to create a new project, see Creating a New Project on page 20.
Projects are normally independent from each other. However, if, during project creation, you or your
administrator chose to share project data with another project, you will see a hierarchy in this dialog
box, with the project whose data is shared at the top level and the newer project as a sub-folder.
Only two levels are permitted.
This picture shows an example, with a mix of independent projects and shared projects:
Project Manager dialog box
To open an existing project:
1. In the Project Manager dialog box, select the project you require.
Note: If the project contains a large number of sites, and you have permission to do so,
you can choose to load only the sites within a specific area, rather than the whole project.
For information, see Loading a Subset of Project Data (Site Region Load) on page 33.
2. Ensure that you only include the item categories that you need to load. You can
significantly reduce loading time by excluding item categories (such as technologies) that
you do not need. For more information, see Defining the Project Load Options on page 32.
3. Click Start.
If the Start button is unavailable to you, contact your administrator to ensure you have the
correct permissions.
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ASSET User Reference Guide
Defining the Project Load Options
Before you open a project, you should ensure that you only include the item categories that you
need to load. You can significantly reduce loading time by excluding item categories (such as
technologies) that you do not need. This is known as 'Partial Load'.
Most of the options are self-explanatory, but here are some specific notes about some of the options:
 Neighbours: This will include/exclude all neighbours in the project, and all the associated
functionality such as wizards and analysis.
 Technologies: This will include/exclude specific technologies in the project. When a
technology is excluded, the tab for that technology will not appear on a multi-technology
cell, even if it is supported.
 Antenna Masks (Load on demand), Radio Masks (Load on demand) and User Defined
Fields (Load on demand):
These special options can achieve a faster project load time. This means that the relevant data
is not loaded upfront, but only when needed during the project session. This may incur a time
cost when you are working in the project, for example when clicking an object in the Cellular
Antennas dialog or the Site Database, respectively. Likewise, in the case of antenna masks, the
data would be loaded on demand when creating predictions, and the field data would be loaded
when editing/reporting fields or using filters with field-based rules. But each time these data
demands occur, it is only reduced sets of data that are loaded (in contrast to the whole set). In
addition, these sets are cached for the project session. If you do not select these options, the
whole set of mask data and/or field data will be loaded.
Note: The MW Antenna Masks option is selected by default.
To select what is loaded:
1. In the Project Manager dialog box, in the Project Load Options pane, select which items
and technologies you want to load, as in this example:
The settings will persist after closing and reopening the project, unless you change them again.
2. Click OK.
When you open the chosen project, only the selected item categories are loaded. Any that
you chose not to load will not be available in the project.
Note: The title bar of the ASSET user interface will show 'Partial Load' to notify you that not all the
items or technologies are loaded.
Tip: To view the project load options after you have opened a project, from the File menu, click
View Project Load Options.
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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

Where remote antennas are used, the project will contain:

Loading a Subset of Project Data (Site Region Load)
If you have large numbers of sites in a project, you may want to load only sites in a specified
region, which can be either a polygon or rectangle. By loading a subset of site data, ASSET can run
faster.
When region loading is active:
For the implications of region loading, see How Region Loading Affects the Project on page 33.
When setting up a site region load for a project, you can use any of these methods:
 Any Properties (regardless of the chosen region) that contain an antenna that is used by a
cell that is located inside the chosen region
 Any Properties (regardless of the chosen region) that contain a cell that uses an antenna
that is located inside the chosen region
 Map data is not affected in any way. You can leave your map data extents as they are,
seeing map data for the whole country, while viewing only the subset of sites you have
loaded.

Method 1 (recommended)  You can still add sites to all areas or move sites outside the chosen region.

Summary: While the project is open, create the polygon in the usual way, within the normal Map
View window (or just use a polygon that already exists in your normal vector folders). Then, after Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 1
closing the project, specify that it is also to be used as the region load polygon.
This section describes how to load a subset of project data using a polygon created in an open
This method has the significant benefit that you can visualise your sites/nodes in the normal 'open project.
project' Map View while viewing or creating the polygon.

For full instructions, see Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 1 on page 34. Tip: This is the recommended method, because you can visualise your sites/nodes in the normal
Map View window while creating the polygon.
Method 2
To do this:
Summary: While the project is closed, create a polygon within the Region Load Map View (this
polygon is exclusive to site region load and will not be stored in your normal vector folders.) With 1. Visualise your sites/nodes in the normal Map View window.
this method, you cannot visualise your sites/nodes while creating the polygon.
2. Create your polygon in the usual way, or decide which existing polygon you want to use.
For full instructions, see Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 2 on page 36.
3. If the project is already open, close it.
Method 3
4. In the Project Manager dialog box, select the appropriate project, and click .
Summary: While the project is closed, create a rectangle by specifying coordinates. With this
method, you cannot visualise your sites/nodes while creating the rectangle. 5. In the Project Settings dialog box, click on the Region Load tab.
For full instructions, see Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 3 on page 37. 6. Select the 'Restrict Site Load to Region' checkbox:

Important: Whichever method you choose, there is one restriction: any polygon used for region
load must be a single polygon only (in other words, the vector must contain only one feature) and it
must be limited to a maximum of 100 points.

How Region Loading Affects the Project

7. Click .
When using region loading, each time you open the project, the title bar indicates that you have
'Region Load' in operation. 8. In the Map View window that appears, right-click and then click Properties.
The project will contain: 9. From the Data Types list, choose what you want to display, for example any map layers or
 All 'Committed' network elements (sites, nodes, microwave links, and so on) that are inside vectors, and then click OK & Redraw.
the region you have chosen
Tip: If necessary, you can use zooming and panning options by right-clicking on the Map
 All 'Committed' repeaters, and all their parent objects (sites, nodes, Properties, and so on) View.
regardless of the chosen region
 All 'Applied-only' network elements (sites, nodes, repeaters, microwave links, and so on)
relating to the individual user, regardless of the chosen region
 All hierarchical parent switches (such as MSCs, BSCs, WMSCs, RNCs, SGSNs, SAEGWs)
and their associated Properties, regardless of the chosen region
33 34
 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

10.In the Map View window, click the Vector Editor button: 14. In the Project Settings dialog box, ensure that the 'Region Polygon' radio button is
selected, and it reads 'Polygon Defined':

15. Click OK.

11. In the Vector Manager dialog box, select the required vector.
16. In the Project Manager dialog box, click Start.
Note: Any system or user vector can be used, provided it consists of a single polygon with
no more than 100 points.

12. Right-click on the vector and select 'Copy to Regional Load polygon', as shown in this Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 2
example:
This section describes how to load a subset of project data using a polygon that you create within
the temporary Regional Load Map View, while the project is closed.

Note:
 This method does not enable you to visualise your sites/nodes while creating the polygon.
 A polygon created with this method is exclusive to site region load and will not be stored in
your normal vector folders.

To do this:

1. If the project is already open, close it.

2. In the Project Manager dialog box, select the appropriate project, and click .

3. In the Project Settings dialog box, click on the Region Load tab.

4. Select the 'Restrict Site Load to Region' checkbox:

The polygon is displayed on the Regional Load Map View:

5. Click .

6. In the Map View window that appears, right-click and then click Properties.

7. From the Data Types list, choose what you want to display, for example any map layers or
vectors, and then click OK & Redraw.
13. When you have finished, close the Map View window.

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

5. Select the 'Region Coordinates' option:

8. In the Map View window, click the Create Polygon button :

9. Click the start point and all subsequent points of the polygon (up to a maximum of 100).

Tip: You can use zooming and panning options at any time by right-clicking on the Map
View. You can continue making a polygon after panning, by clicking Cancel Pan. To undo 6. Use the Regional Load Map View to define the area:
your polygon points and start again, press the Esc key.
o Click .
10. To complete your region polygon, double-click at the final point of the polygon. o In the Map View window that appears, right-click and then click Properties.
If you are not satisfied with your region polygon, either: o From the Data Types list, choose what you want to display, such as map layers or
vectors, and then click OK & Redraw.
o Click the Delete Polygon button and start again
o In the Map View window, right-click and you can then use the zoom and pan options to
help finalise your region.
o Click the Move Point button , and then click and drag the points of your polygon as
required o When you have finished, close the Map View window.

11. When you have finished, close the Map View window. The coordinates will appear automatically.

12. In the Project Settings dialog box, ensure that you select the 'Region Polygon' option. 7. In the Project Settings dialog box, click OK.

8. In the Project Manager dialog box, click Start.

As an alternative, you can specify the Longitude/Latitude values manually.

Setting Up Your Preferences

13. Click OK. Setting up your preferences is the next step after you have set up and opened a project, and before
you begin planning a network.
14. In the Project Manager dialog box, click Start.
Warning: If you do not set your preferences properly, this may have a significant impact on your
whole network plan.
Setting Up Site Region Load Using Method 3
This section describes how to load a sub-set of project data using the rectangle method (specifying The tabs and items available depend on the products you have installed. If you use ASSET
region coordinates). Backhaul, you should also see the sections under 'Setting Your Preferences in ASSET Backhaul' in
the ASSET Backhaul User Reference Guide, where you can find ASSET Backhaul-specific
To do this: information about the ASSET Backhaul, Earth Radius and Diffraction tabs.

1. If the project is already open, close it. To open this dialog box:
From the File menu, click Preferences.
2. In the Project Manager dialog box, select the appropriate project, and click .

3. In the Project Settings dialog box, click on the Region Load tab.

4. Select the 'Restrict Site Load to Region' checkbox.

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 Setting Up a Project
This picture shows an example of the Preferences dialog box:
Preferences Dialog Box
Setting General Preferences
On the General tab of the Preferences dialog box, you can choose from the following options:
Item Description
Power Preferences The field strength unit chosen here will be used throughout the project, for example, in the
cell powers in the Site Database, the Coverage schemas, the Map Information pane, the
Pixel Analyser, and so on.
If you choose dBm, the frequency is ignored for the purposes of field strength.
If you choose dBµV/m, the frequency becomes significant and you cannot plan for multiple
bands, for example, GSM 900/1800. If required, you can change the conversion formula for
dBµV/m (temporarily switch to dBm mode to do this).
Note: The most commonly used unit is dBm, therefore this is the default unit.
EMF Preferences Select the required EMF units, dBV/m or dBmW/m2. The conversion formula is shown below
your selection.
39
ASSET User Reference Guide
Item Description
Frequency Bands Select this checkbox only if:
(GSM)
 You use ILSA (the automatic frequency planning tool), and you want to enable
intermodulation analysis. (For more information, see the ILSA User Reference Guide.)
 You want to delimit the carriers you can assign to a carrier layer, so that the carrier
layer's assigned carriers must be within the range of the corresponding frequency band.
(For more information, see 'Defining Carrier Layers' in the ASSET Radio User
Reference Guide.)
Ctrl Click Opens You can enable quick access to a closed Site Database and/or Links Database. Normally,
when you click on a site or link in the Map View window, the appropriate element is
highlighted in the appropriate database window, if it is open. If you select these checkboxes,
you can do this even if the appropriate database window is closed, by holding down Ctrl
when you click on the element in the Map View.
FCC Select the checkbox to activate FCC functionality in ASSET Radio. This will enable you to
view the Site Area Boundary for the FCC in the Map View window, as well as run the FCC
Reporting function.
Miscellaneous Select the Refresh DB On Commit checkbox if you want your project to be automatically
updated with changes made by other users whenever you commit any objects. For
example, if another user has changed the address for a site and has committed it, and you
add a comment for that same site and commit it, you will see not only your comment but
also the changed address. For more information, see Using Refresh to Update Network
Elements on page 213.
Select the Prompt For New Template ID checkbox if you want to be prompted for a name
when creating templates from existing objects in the Site Database or Map View window.
Select the Log Refresh checkbox if you want the Message Log to record all refresh events.
Select the Prevent manual code changes if neighbour clashes arise checkbox if you use
BSICs (GSM) and/or scrambling codes (UMTS) and/or Physical Cell IDs (LTE) in your
project, and want to prevent manual changes in the Site Database that cause 1st or 2nd
order neighbour clashes.
Select the Prevent TCH or MA List allocations before BCCH allocation checkbox if, for a
2g network, you want to ensure that BCCH carrier allocations are a prerequisite for TCH
carrier allocations (this setting is controlled by user permissions).
Select the Retain no. of TRXs when switching from RF hopping checkbox if you want
the Carriers Required value automatically reset to match the TRX Required value on cells in
Site Database, when switching from synthesised or site hopping to baseband or non-
hopping. Otherwise, the TRX Required value is automatically reset to match the Carriers
Required value. This is applicable to manual changes (including global edits) and XML
imports.
Select the Report elements in use checkbox if you want to activate detailed information in
the Message Log that explains why a user's action is blocked due to the action of another
user. You can also set a limit on the number of messages displayed. See Checking Blocked
Actions between Different Users on page 217.
For more information on the parameters affected by the above options, see the ASSET
Radio User Reference Guide.
Setting Earth Radius Preferences
On the Earth Radius tab of the Preferences dialog box, you can set the True Earth radius
(normally 6370 km) and the K factor value (normally 1.3333333), for various calculations
throughout the installed products.
The Effective Earth radius is then calculated for you automatically.
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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

Setting Network Preferences Setting Technology Preferences

On the Network tab of the Preferences dialog box: On the Technology tab of the Preferences dialog box:

 2G Parenting You can control which technologies are visible in the project. To do this:
If you want to activate automatic parenting when adding 2G network elements to the Map Select the technology type(s) you require to be active within the project. Choose from:
View, select 'Parent 2G network elements in logical hierarchy'.
If you activate this automatic parenting, any BSCs you add on the Map View will be
parented to the nearest MSC, and any BTSs you add on the Map View will be parented
according to your choice:
o The nearest BSC
o The BSC of the nearest Distribution Node

Note: For all technologies in ASSET, network hierarchies are optional.

 2G Automatic Reparenting
If you use ASSET Backhaul, whenever you make or break a link on the Map View, you may
want the BTS-BSC parenting in the Site Database to be automatically updated to match
any changed linking relationships in the Link Database. If you do, select 'Check all BTS-
BSC parenting after making or breaking links, and reparent in Site Database if
necessary'.
Important: It is generally recommended that you do not activate this option, so that you These options are always dependent on what licences you have.
can maintain user control of the BTS-to-BSC parenting within the Site Database.
In general, any combination of technology modes can be used in the same project. The only
 Network Element Creation (Logical Links View) exceptions to this is that GSM and PMR/TETRA/iDEN are mutually exclusive.
If you want to be prompted for which Property to choose (existing or new) when you create
a network element in the Site Database, select 'When adding an element, prompt for a Note:
new property'.
 With reference to the flexibility to model multiple technology MU-Nodes and Cells in ASSET
If you do this, each time you add a new element, you will see a Property Information dialog Radio, here is a clarification of when they should be visible in the application:
box where you can choose to locate the element on any existing Property, or on a new
Property for which you can specify the coordinates. o Any 'Fixed' MU-Node or Cell that is set to a technology that is OFF in the technology
preferences will NOT be visible.
This option is only relevant when:
o A 'Variable MU-Node or Cell that does NOT support at least one of the technologies
o The Site Database View mode is 'Logical Links'. that is ON in the preferences will NOT be visible. The only exception is if it supports no
o You are adding an element under a parent hierarchy (for example, adding a Site under technologies, in which case it must be visible.
an existing BSC, or adding a NodeB under an existing RNC. (If you add an element by For information on the multiple technology flexibility, see 'Configuring Networks in ASSET'
right-clicking directly on the PLMN, this option is not relevant, because the Property chapter in the ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
Information dialog box is mandatory in that case.)
 You can edit the technology preferences at any time while the project is open, but not while
any configuration data dialog boxes (such as bearers, services and so on) are open.

Setting Diffraction Preferences

On the Diffraction tab of the Preferences dialog box, select the diffraction model that will be used
in the height profile and link availability calculations.

For detailed information on the different options, see the 'Antenna and Diffraction Calculations'
chapter of the ASSET Technical Reference Guide.

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

 In the Candidate Restrictions pane, select whether you can move the candidates
anywhere, move them into and within the search area, or not move them at all.
Setting Candidate Options Preferences
 In the candidate's BTS Equipment pane, select whether you want:
In ASSET, a nominal Property is a Property placed in an approximate location, that you can use as
o The candidate's existing equipment to remain the same
a way of indicating that you need a site somewhere near this area. Using the search area of the
nominal Property, you define the radius that you consider as suitable for your new Property. In this o The candidate's existing equipment to be removed and replaced with the nominals
search area, you can place a number of other Properties – called candidates - that are possible
o The candidate's existing equipment to be added to with the equipment from the
alternative locations for the new site.
nominal
On the Candidate Options tab of the Preferences dialog box, you can set up a number of
For more information on using candidates and nominals, see Using Nominal and Candidate
candidate-related preferences.
Properties on page 393.
This picture shows the parameters on this tab:

Setting Filter and History Preferences

On the Filters tab of the Preferences dialog box, you can:

 Choose the view you require whenever filters are displayed:

The first and second options offer a basic choice between showing only your own user
filters or all user filters.
The third option is more flexible, because it enables you to show a restricted set of user
filter folders, based on group membership and/or individually selected users.
To use this option, select the third radio button and then:
a. Click the Configure button to open a new dialog box.
b. In the Groups list, select the required groups
Candidate Options tab of the Preferences dialog box - and/or -
You can: In the Users list, select the required individual users
 Enable candidate functionality. This will apply to any search areas you create after Note: The lists exclude the default All group, and the current user.
selecting this option, but will not affect any existing search areas you may have defined. c. Click OK.
 In the Automate pane: The resulting user filter folders visible in the user interface (Filters dialog, Map View, Site
Database, and so on) will be restricted to those relating to members of your selected
Select To groups, and/or your individually selected users.

Candidate Status Apply candidate status to any new Properties that you create inside  Opt to only show active antennas in the Site Database:
an existing search area.
Renaming Rename any candidates (when they are created) with the same name
as the nominal, plus a letter suffix (for example "Property99_A").
Note: If the Property's candidate status is subsequently removed, the
Property will revert to its original name.
By default, on the Antenna tab at the cell level, all available logical antennas are shown,
Capturing candidates Add candidate status to Properties when you enlarge the search area that is, both active (assigned) and inactive (unassigned) antennas. However, if you want to
to include them, or remove candidate status from Properties that no show only the active antennas, you can select the above option. Some users prefer this so
longer fall into a reduced search area.
that they can easily see the logical antenna(s) that the cell is connected to.
Not selecting this option means that when you resize a search area
the numbers of candidates remains the same.

 In the Nominal Restrictions pane, select whether you can move the nominal site or not.

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

 Opt to have History details displayed on the History tabs in the Site Database The impact is on what you see in the drop-down list on the Logical Antennas tab of a Property.
automatically, rather than having to click the Show History button on the tab. The examples below help to explain this:

 Example of showing all the tilt values of all the patterns parented to the device:

For more information about viewing history details, see 'About the History Tab' in the
ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
For information on activating the history, see 'Using Version History' in the ASSET
Installation and Administration Guide.

 Choose if you want to save created or modified objects from recent imports (from XML
Import and Grid Data Loader) into the Selection Filter automatically.  Example of showing only the tilt values that have the same frequency as the currently
assigned pattern:

For more information, see Saving the Contents of an Import into the Selection Filter on
page 311. Note that even if you choose to use the frequency-restricted option, you can still see all the
patterns (and assign any of them) if you click on the 'Pattern ID' drop-down list:

Setting Electrical Tilts Preferences

On the Electrical Tilts tab of the Preferences dialog box, you can choose the way that you want
your show antenna patterns to be displayed when using the 'Electrical Tilt' drop-down list on the
Logical Antennas tab of a Property.

Note: This option is only applicable to Passive antennas, not Switched Beam antennas.

The basic choice is between showing: Enabling or Disabling Large Array Support within a Project
 All the tilt values of all the patterns parented to the device. This option allows two different
sorting options. If you frequently create large arrays, you can take advantage of the large array support provided in
ASSET. This is applicable to all types of array, for example: simulation arrays,
- or -
coverage/interference arrays, traffic arrays, and height or clutter rasters.
 Only the tilt values belonging to patterns parented to the device that have the same
frequency as the currently assigned pattern. ASSET enables you to enable support for large arrays on the local machine. The process uses a
swapping system, in which a swap folder is used to store the temporary files when more memory is
required. This can significantly increase the RAM available for array creation.

For information on how to access and set up the Large Array Settings dialog box, see 'Allowing
Large Array Support on a Machine' in the ASSET Installation and Administration Guide.

For an individual project, you can enable or disable the large array support swapping system
process, and also override the process memory reserved defaults.

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

To do this:

1. Ensure that Large Array Support has been allowed (as referenced above) and then open
Defining the Site Database Settings
the relevant project.
To change how the Site Database window displays network elements, from the Tools menu of the
2. From the File menu, click Swapping Manager. The Swapping System Manager dialog Site Database, click Options. The Site Database Settings dialog box appears:
box appears:

3. Use the checkbox to enable or disable the swapping system process for the project, as
required Site Database Settings Dialog Box

 The 'Display Options' radio buttons enable you to choose which identifier is shown next to
4. You can override the process memory reserved value for the project here, if necessary.
each type of network element in the left pane of the Site Database window.
The default is based on the values in the Large Array Settings dialog box.
 The 'Network Display Mode' radio buttons enable you to choose how to show the list of
Note: The maximum memory in the Large Array Settings dialog box determines the network elements in the Site Database. The modes are listed here:
absolute limit in most circumstances. However, in exceptional circumstances, the specified
limit can be automatically extended to a higher value, which is a calculated optimum for the Display mode Description
task in progress. When this happens, the higher value is reported in the Message Log, and
it remains active within the project session. Logical Links View This shows the network elements listed as a hierarchical list under
the appropriate PLMN.
5. Click OK. Physical Links View This shows a list of Properties, showing how each of them are
physically linked if you use ASSET Backhaul.

Warning: It is strongly recommended to turn off Large Array Support when not creating large Location View This shows a list of Properties (locations), and shows the network
elements at each of those locations.
arrays. This is because it consumes a large amount of memory, and can be detrimental to the
general performance of ASSET. It is therefore recommended to only enable the feature when Network View This shows the network elements listed (regardless of hierarchies)
required. You can contact Product Support for further advice. under the appropriate PLMN or logical network
Cell-Antenna View This shows the Properties (locations) containing the antennas from
which each cell is physically transmitting. These locations may be the
same as or different from the location of the cell.

For example images of the above display modes, see Choosing the View in the Site
Database on page 228.

Tip: You can also change the display mode from the View menu in the Site Database.

 The 'Antenna Pattern Sort Options' radio buttons enable you to determine how you want
the antenna patterns to be sorted in the drop-down list that appears on the Logical
Antennas tab for a Property in the Site Database.
The options are as follows listed here:

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 Setting Up a Project ASSET User Reference Guide

Sort by Parameter (from Cellular Antennas dialog box) Here is an example:

Pattern Name Pattern ID as specified on General tab

Pattern Electrical Tilt Elec. Downtilt as specified on Mask tab
Pattern Frequency Frequency as specified on Info tab
Azimuth Offset Azimuth Offset as specified on Mask tab

Customising the Object Count in the Site Database

When you are viewing the Site Database, you can see the object count at the bottom of the left
pane:

The maximum you can select is 10 items.

3. Use the Up or Down buttons to modify the display sequence.

Example of Object Count in Site Database
4. Click OK.
These counts are influenced by which technologies are currently enabled in the project, which filter
is currently selected in the Site Database, and which Network Display Mode is being used. The object counts appear at the bottom of the left pane in the Site Database, according to your
configuration.
The default object count represents the number of:
 Properties (all technologies)
Tip: If necessary, you can resize the Site Database horizontally by dragging the left bar or the right
 Sites/Nodes (all technologies) bar. You can do this whether it is in collapsed mode (left pane only) or expanded mode (both left
and right pane).
 Cells (all technologies)

However, if required, you can customise this display, to show the count for other network elements
or objects such as:
Defining the Map View Options
 Networks
 MSCs, BSCs, RNCs, SAEGWs and so on Before you start to use the Map View window to model your network, you can define certain
options which will determine how you will use the Map View. For example, you can specify which
 Sites/Nodes/Cells/Repeaters (technology-specific)
template is used each time you add a particular network element.
 Logical nodes
To set the options:
 Logical and cellular connections
In the Map View window, from the Tools menu, click Options.
 Antenna devices (the number of antennas specified at Node level, or Cell level for GSM,
irrespective of them being used by the cells) The Tool Options dialog box appears.

To do this:
Tip: You can leave this dialog box open while you are working.

1. At the bottom of the left pane of the Site Database, click the button.
The tabs are described below:
2. In the Custom Object Count Configuration dialog box that appears, select or deselect
the items you require using the Left or Right arrow buttons.  Selection tab
On the Selection tab, you can choose which network elements you want to be

included/excluded when you use the Selection Expert options in the Map View. For
more information, see Choosing Which Types of Network Elements are Added to the
Selection Filter on page 303.

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 Add Element tab

On the Add Element tab, you can select which template is used when you add a particular
type of network element:
o In the Object Type drop-down list, select the network element type
o In the Template drop-down list, select the template that you want to be active when
you add this network element type
o In the Property drop-down list, select the Property template that you want to be active
in the event of a new Property being required (only active when applicable)

Note: The Templates dialog box (under the Database menu) is automatically updated
with the new default. Therefore the same default will also operate when elements are
added in the Site Database.

For more information, see Adding Network Elements with a Selected Template on page 89.

 Best Server tab

On the Best Server tab, you can select a particular array. Based on your choice, when you
click on any pixel within that array in the Map View Window, the best serving cell is
highlighted in the Site Database (as long as the Site Database window is open). For more
information, see Using the Map View to Find Elements in Site Database on page 231.

Note: The options you choose are always saved when you close this dialog box, and will be
persisted in future sessions.

About the New Project Default Objects

In order to make a new ASSET project easy to use right from the start, the following default objects,
with pre-set parameters, are provided:
 Antenna default
 Propagation model defaults (450, 900, 1800 and 2100MHz)
 Template defaults (for each technology)
 Terminal type default (for each technology)

These default objects represent the minimum parameters required to add/place sites and generate
coverage arrays in ASSET Radio. The default templates include sites (nodes) and cells (sectors)
that in turn make use of the default propagation models and antenna.

Note: These defaults are only present when new projects are added in ASSET. Existing projects
will not have these defaults created.

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Button Function Described in

3 About the Core User Interface Open a new Map View window Viewing and Editing Networks on the Map on page 81.
(multiple views can be open).

Opens Site Database window. ASSET User Reference Guide (for general
This chapter describes the main user interface parts common to products in the ASSET suite. functionality).
ASSET Radio User Reference Guide (for technology-
specific parameters).
About the Tabs and Main Menu
Opens Link Database window in ASSET Backhaul User Reference Guide.
ASSET Backhaul.
When you start ASSET, at the top of the screen, you can see the project name, the database
source name and the user name. Opens Pathloss Prediction Generator ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
in ASSET Radio.
There is also a set of tabs. Each tab corresponds to an ASSET product, according to what is
licensed and installed, such as RADIO (for ASSET Radio) and BACKHAUL (for ASSET Backhaul). Opens Filter Database dialog box. Using Filters in ASSET on page 282.
There is also a Utilities tab.
Opens Selection Expert dialog box. About the Selection Expert and Selection Filter on
The main menu options (such as File, View, Database, Equipment, Tools) appear under each page 301.
tab. Some of these menu options are the same for each product, but some options are product-
specific. Opens the Site Database Site ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
Database Reports dialog box in
The rest of the ASSET display is transparent, so your desktop is visible beneath the menus. ASSET Radio.
Opens the Search dialog box. ASSET Backhaul User Reference Guide.
Locates equipment, links and network
About the Main Toolbar in ASSET elements in ASSET Backhaul.
Opens Wastebasket About the Wastebasket on page 76.
You can access the core functionality of ASSET from the main toolbar, shown here:
Opens a menu from which you can About Workspaces on page 55.
select the Workspaces dialog box (to
maintain Workspaces) or quick
access links to Workspaces that you
have created.
Launches ASSET Design. ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.

Main toolbar: ASSET Radio is accessed by the 'RADIO' tab; ASSET Backhaul is accessed by the Launches the Design Wizard Setup ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
'BACKHAUL' tab Manager.
Launches ASSET Capacity. ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
The above picture shows the toolbar relating to ASSET Radio. The toolbar relating to ASSET
Backhaul is only slightly different.

Most of the buttons on the toolbar relate to the core functionality of the ASSET suite, and are
described here in this ASSET User Reference Guide. But some are described in the product- About the Core Windows
specific user guide for ASSET Radio or ASSET Backhaul.

For ease of reference, this table briefly describes the function of each button, and where to look for A number of windows are common to products in the ASSET suite and they are described in the
more information: following sections.

Button Function Described in Note: If you close a project with any of these windows open, the windows will be opened
automatically in the same position when you next open the project.
Closes the ASSET software.

Log In to the database. Logging In to a Database on page 17.

Log Out of the database.

Open a project (button only active Opening an Existing Project on page 31.
after you have closed a project).

Close a project (but leaves you

logged in to the database).

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 About the Core User Interface ASSET User Reference Guide

Displaying and Hiding Windows About Workspaces

In ASSET, all currently open windows are listed under the Windows menu item, as in this example: A workspace is a personalised combination of windows and dialog boxes that you use regularly,
organised on the screen in a convenient layout that is saved for future use. This means you can
easily load your required screen layout at any time. You can create any number of workspaces.

There are already two default workspaces available to you:

 Default Workspace, which includes the Layer Control Pane, Site Database (under the Layer
Control Pane), Map View, and Message Log
 Default Workspace (Backhaul), which includes the Link Database, Map View, and Message
Log

If you have a number of windows open, with some of them hidden or overlapping, you can bring a Notes:
required window into focus at the front. This is also useful when you have minimised a window and  Workspaces can save the displayed contents (such as filters, vectors, heights) of the Map
you want to maximise it. View windows, as well as the region.

To bring a window to the front or maximise it:  Workspaces can save multiple Map View windows.
 The workspace remembers which filter is active in other windows, such as the Site
1. On the main menu, click Windows.
Database.
2. Click the required item in the displayed list, such as Site Database, 2D View, or Message  Workspaces cannot be shared across machines, databases, projects or users.
Log.
 Workspaces created from the RADIO tab are maintained separately from those created on
The chosen window is brought to the front or maximised, as appropriate. the BACKHAUL tab. Workspaces can only be accessed from the tab on which they were
created.
To see a list of all currently open windows:

1. On the main menu, click Windows.

2. From the list that appears, click the Windows... option.
3. A dialog box appears, listing the windows that are currently open:
Tip: In the specific context of the Map View window, you can also use Favourite Views. Here is a
quick comparison:
 Use Favourite Views if you are only working with the Map View window. Additionally, in
the case of System Favourites, you can share them with other users of the project. See
About Favourite Map Views on page 101.
 Use Workspaces when you want to personalise the layout and positioning of several
dialog boxes, optionally including the Map View.

Creating Workspaces
To close an unwanted window:
A workspace is a personalised combination of windows and dialog boxes that you use regularly,
1. Repeat as above. organised on the screen in a convenient layout.
2. Select the required item and click Close Window.
(The Activate button is just another way of bringing a window to the front or maximising it.) You can easily load your required screen layout at any time by clicking the workspace button
and then selecting the required workspace. You can create any number of workspaces.

Tip: You can save a commonly-used layout of windows and dialog boxes as a workspace, which
can be easily loaded at any time. See About Workspaces on page 55.
Tip: There is already a Default Workspace available from the Workspaces button on the RADIO
tab, and a Default Workspace (Backhaul) available from the workspace button on the BACKHAUL
tab. Workspaces that you create are available from the workspace button on the tab under which
you created them.

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To create a workspace: The Workspaces dialog box appears, as in this example:

1. Ensure that all of the required windows and dialog boxes are arranged in your preferred
positions. Here is an example:

3. To save this set of windows as a workspace, click Save As.

4. In the dialog box that appears, type a name (and if required, a description) for the
workspace:

5. Click OK.
The layout is saved as a workspace, and appears in the Workspaces dialog box:

2. On the RADIO or the BACKHAUL toolbar, click the Workspaces button , then click
the Workspaces... option.

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 About the Core User Interface ASSET User Reference Guide

6. For any of the workspaces, you can select the Quick Access option. This will make them Alternatively, you can load any of your workspaces as follows:

immediately accessible in a list under the toolbar when you click the button: 1. On the RADIO or the BACKHAUL toolbar, click the Workspaces button, then click the
Workspaces... option.
The Workspaces dialog box appears.

2. Select the workspace that you want to load.

3. Click Load.
Any windows that are already open are closed, and the requested workspace is loaded.
For information on loading, modifying, renaming and deleting workspaces, see Managing
Workspaces on page 59. 4. Close the Workspaces dialog box.

To modify a workspace:
Notes:
1. Ensure that the required workspace is already loaded (using either method described
 Workspaces can save the displayed contents (such as filters, vectors, heights) of the Map above).
View windows, as well as the region.
 Workspaces can save multiple Map View windows. 2. Make the required layout changes - for example, add or remove windows, or re-position the
windows.
 The workspace remembers which filter is active in other windows, such as the Site
Database. 3. Click the Workspaces button and then click the Workspaces... option to open the
Workspaces dialog box.
 Workspaces cannot be shared across machines, databases, projects or users.
4. Select the appropriate workspace.

5. Click Save.
Managing Workspaces The changes to the workspace are saved.
After you have created workspaces (as described in the previous topic), you can use the To rename a workspace:
Workspaces dialog box to manage them. Workspaces that you have created are available from
the Workspaces button on the tab under which you created them. 1. Select the workspace that you want to rename.
You can: 2. Click Rename:
 Load workspaces
3. In the Enter Workspace Details dialog box that appears, specify the new name for the
 Modify workspaces workspace and add any description required.
 Rename workspaces 4. Click OK.
 Delete workspaces The workspace details are updated in the Workspaces dialog box.

To load a workspace: To delete a workspace:

If you assigned the 'Quick Access' option to the workspace (see About Workspaces on page 55), 1. Select the workspace that you want to delete.

you can immediately access it from a list under the toolbar when you click the button. For 2. Click Delete:
example:
The workspace is immediately deleted.

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About the Site Database Window
Use the Site Database window to view and edit the attributes of all your network elements within
the ASSET database.
The left pane contains your network hierarchy and when you select an item in this pane, related
information appears in the right pane. The information changes depending on your selection. This
picture shows an example:
Site Database Window showing parameter information for selected item
Note: If required, you can maximise the Site Database window, or you can extend the right edge
outwards or the bottom edge downwards. If you extend it outwards, this enables you to use the
splitter bar in the middle to adjust the relative size of the left and right panes. When you close and
reopen the window, or the project, the window's size and position will be remembered.
In the left pane:
 You can use the Filter box to ensure that all or a subset of data is displayed. All the items
present in the filter selected in the Filter box are listed in the left pane.
When you close or reopen the Site Database window, or the project, the last selected filter
will be remembered.
 You can use the Find box to search for a site containing a particular substring. For
example, you could type Site77 and all elements with Site77 in their name will be displayed
in the drop-down list.
- or -
If you know the full name of the element you are searching for, type the name in the Find
box and click the Find button.
 Items marked with an asterisk (*) indicate that the item has been modified, but that the
changes have been Applied but not Committed.
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ASSET User Reference Guide
 You can display the list of network elements according to your preferred view. See
Choosing the View in the Site Database on page 228.
 You can use a number of keyboard shortcuts when viewing and selecting items.
For more information, see Viewing and Editing the Site Database on page 223.
About the Keyboard Shortcuts in the Site Database Window
This table describes the shortcuts available in the Site Database:
Item Description
Up arrow Moves up to the next visible level in the hierarchy (for example, from cell level to site
level).
Down arrow Moves down to the next visible level in the hierarchy (for example, from Property level
to site level).
Left arrow Contracts the selected element to the parent level (for example, from a cell to its site).
Right arrow Expands the selected element by one level (for example, from a site to its sub-cell).
About the Buttons on the Site Database Window
This table describes the functions of the buttons that appear on the expanded Site Database
window (unless you logged in as a Sandbox user):
Click To
>> or << Show or hide the right hand side of the Site Database window.
Apply Apply a change you have made only to your own account, that is, the change can only
be seen by yourself. For more information on Applying elements, see Saving Your
Changes to the Database on page 207.
Commit Copy your change to the database, and therefore make it available to everyone.
Before using Commit, you need to have clicked Apply. For more information on
Committing elements, see Saving Your Changes to the Database on page 207.
Restore Remove a change that you have Applied and revert to using the master database
settings, getting the latest Committed version of that object.
Restore only works if there is a version of the object already Committed to the
database. If you have created a new object and want to remove it, you should delete it.
Commit All Copy all your changes to the database in one action, and therefore make them
available to everyone. Before using Commit All, you need to have clicked Apply for
each change you made.
Note: If there is nothing to Commit when you click Commit All, a dialog box will appear
telling you that there is nothing left to Commit.
Restore All Delete all changes that you have Applied and revert to using the master database
settings, getting the latest Committed version of the items marked with an asterisk.
Note: If there is nothing to Restore when you click Restore All, a dialog box will appear
telling you that there is nothing left to Restore.
Global Edit Open the Global Editor, for when you want to change all network elements identified
by a filter. For more information on using the Global Editor, see Making Global
Changes to Network Elements on page 249.
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About the Buttons in Sandboxes About the Core Map View Window
This table describes the functions of the buttons that appear on the expanded Site Database,
The Map View window is a fundamental part of the ASSET suite in which you can view the different
Logical/Cellular Connection Database, and Link Database windows if you logged in to a
data sets available within ASSET, including site data, connectivity and mapping data.
Sandbox:
The Map View window and Site Database window are fully synchronised so that changes you
Click To make in one are reflected in the other. In addition, when you click a network element on the map,
any open Site Database window will update dynamically to display that item.
>> or << Show or hide the right hand side of the Site Database window.
Apply Apply a change you have made to the Sandbox account. The change can only be At the left of the Map View window is the Layer Control Pane which has three tabs, Layer Order,
seen by yourself and the other users of this Sandbox. For more information on Legend and Data Types.
Applying Sandbox elements, see Saving Sandbox Changes to the Database on page
215. This picture shows an example of the Map View window:
Commit Copy your change to the database and therefore make it available to everyone,
whether they are users of this Sandbox or not.
Before using Commit, you need to have clicked Apply. For more information on
Committing Sandbox elements, see Saving Sandbox Changes to the Database on
page 215.
To use Commit, you must have been granted the Sandbox Commit/Restore functional
privilege by your administrator. For more information see the ASSET Installation and
Administration Guide.
Restore Remove a change that you have Applied to the Sandbox and revert to using the
master database settings, getting the latest Committed version of that object.
Restore only works if there is a version of the object already Committed to the
database. If you have created a new object and want to remove it, you should delete it.
To use Restore, you must have been granted the Sandbox Commit/Restore functional
privilege by your administrator. For more information see the ASSET Installation and
Administration Guide.
Commit All Copy all your Sandbox changes to the database in one action, and therefore make Example Map View window
them available to everyone. Before using Commit All, you need to have clicked Apply
for each change you made.
Note: If there is nothing to Commit when you click Commit All, a dialog box will appear Notes:
telling you that there is nothing left to Commit.
 You can have multiple Map View windows open at the same time. To help distinguish them,
Restore All Delete all changes that you have Applied to the Sandbox and revert to using the the title bar of each one will show "2D View - 1", "2D View - 2", and so on, representing the
master database settings, getting the latest Committed version of the items marked order in which they were opened. In a new session (after closing and reopening the
with an asterisk. project), the numbering will restart from "1".
Note: If there is nothing to Restore when you click Restore All, a dialog box will appear  You can choose between the default Single View and the Tiled View. Using the Tiled View
telling you that there is nothing left to Restore.
you can see up to four maps within one window for comparison, or you can combine maps
Global Edit Open the Global Editor, for when you want to change all network elements identified with the Pixel Analyser and/or Graphs. For more information, see Using the Tiled View on
by a filter. For more information on using the Global Editor, see Making Global page 85.
Changes to Network Elements on page 249.
 You can use Undo from the Edit menu (or Ctrl Z on the keyboard) to undo up to 25 zoom,
drag, or selection steps (including view selection) in the Map View window, and Redo (or
Ctrl Y) to restore them.
About the Context Sensitive Menus in the Site Database Window
In the Site Database window, you can access commonly-used functions via context sensitive
menus, depending on:
About the Map View's Toolbar
 The view you have chosen in the Site Database Settings dialog box. For example, if you
choose to display Logical Links, you cannot cut paste and copy items in the Site Database This toolbar extends along the left edge and the top of the Map View.
window.
 Which network element, if any, is selected in the left-hand pane. Note: The toolbars and buttons that you see are always dependent on the products you have
To access context sensitive menus, right-click a network element. installed. For specific information, see the relevant User Reference Guide.

This table describes the tools available on the Map View toolbar:

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Tool Description Tool Description

Individual object selection. Enables you to select any network element in the Map Pixel select mode. See About the Pixel Analyser on page 150.
View, and locate it automatically in the Site Database. This button is also useful
for deactivating any previously selected options (such as Zoom).
Launch ASSET Geo (if licensed). For more information, see the ASSET Geo User
Selection Filter toolbox. For more information, see Adding to the Selection Filter Reference Guide.
Using the Map View Window on page 301.
Use the Vector Manager to create and manage vector file features. See About the
Clear the contents of the Selection Filter. Vector Manager on page 256.

Use the Add Network Element toolbox to add Properties, and elements such as
Tracking cursor. This displays the coordinates as you move the cursor. sites and nodes.
It may be useful to activate the tracking cursor when adding or moving network
Use the Move/Edit Network Element toolbox to move Properties, elements and
elements and when moving or re-orientating antennas. You can also use it with
antennas. There is also a cloning option.
the Map Grid and Pixel Analyser.
You can switch it on and off by clicking the button or by pressing the F10 key. Use the Delete Network Element toolbox to delete Properties and elements such
as sites and nodes.
Distance toolbox. See About the Distance Measurement Toolbox on page 66.
Use the Cell Associations toolbox to add and display neighbour relationships and
exceptions. Also displays carrier assignments.
Zooming options. See About the Zoom Options on page 67.
Use the Candidate toolbox to make and break candidate relationships of a
Nominal Property, and show the candidates. Also sets, cancels and shows
Quick Finder. See Searching the Map View Window with the Quick Finder on Search Area.
page 106.
Use the Link toolbox to add or delete links, hubs and connections between
Jump to Location. See Using Jump To Location on page 108. Properties.
You can add logical and cellular connections. There is also a 'Site Visibility' tool.
Display Site Tips. See Viewing Attribute Data as Site Tips on page 204.
For information on panning around the Map View, see Repositioning (Panning) the Map on page
100.
Site Quick Edit. See 'Quickly Viewing and Editing Site or Cell Information' in the
ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
Tip: For some of the above buttons, such as the Zooming options, you remain in that mode until
Cell Quick Edit. See 'Quickly Viewing and Editing Site or Cell Information' in the
ASSET Radio User Reference Guide. you press the Esc key or click the button.
Layer Control. This consists of three tabs:
 Layer Order
 Legend About the Distance Measurement Toolbox
 Data Types The Distance Measurement toolbox contains the following buttons:
See About the Layer Control Pane on page 72.
Switches between Single View and Tiled View.

Switches tile synchronisation on and off. It is on by default, and when it is on, any
panning or zooming of the selected tile is applied to all Map View tiles. Distance Measurement Toolbox

Show the Map Information pane. See About the Map Information Pane on page
This table describes the buttons:
71.

Favourite views. See About Favourite Map Views on page 101. This Button Enables You To

Displays all the network elements (sites, cells, links and so on) that are located
within your current Map View window. This is equivalent to selecting the 'All'
checkbox under the Filters category on the Data Types tab of the Layer Control
Pane.
Create Arrays. See 'Creating Signal Coverage Arrays' in the section for the
required technology in the ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
Launch the Simulator Wizard. See 'Using the Simulator Wizard' in the ASSET
Radio User Reference Guide.
Measure the distances between points on a line, and the total length of the line.
Note: In the Map View, two connected points are referred to as a shape. One or more
(connected) shapes form a feature. More than one feature can be saved as one vector.
Click on the Map View to mark the first point. Drag and click to add further connected points.
Double-click to terminate the current line.
Show the coordinates of a point.
Click on the Map View to add a point.

Pixel Analyser mode. See About the Pixel Analyser on page 150.

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This Button Enables You To Button Name Brief Description

Measure the size of an area. Zoom from centre Zoom from the centre of your initial mouse click. Enables you to zoom to
the extent of a rectangle that you draw on the Map View.
Click on the Map View to establish the first point. Drag and click to add further points.
Double-click to close the area by automatically connecting the last point to the first. Zoom to scale This provides a list of scaling options.
Change the display properties of the tools described above:
In the Point pane, select the Point option to display points created by the point tool. In the Zoom to filters Zoom to the network elements that are included in the currently selected
adjacent Coordinate Display pane, select what sort of coordinates are to be used. Filters in the Layer Control dialog box.
In the Distance pane, select the Point, Shape Length and Feature Length options as Zoom to filters Zoom to the network elements that are included in the currently selected
required to display the points, distances between points and total distance between first and including radius Filters in the Layer Control Pane. The zoom level takes account of the
last points along the line created by the distance tool. primary prediction radius that has been assigned to the relevant cells and
In the adjacent Coordinate Display pane, select what sort of coordinates are to be used. repeaters, or the global override setting (if selected) on the Predictions tab
In the Area pane, select the Point, Shape Length and Feature Length options as required to of the Array Settings dialog box.
display the points, distances between points, total distance of the area perimeter and the size
of the area created by the area tool. For more detailed information, see Zooming, Moving and Redrawing the Map on page 97.
In the adjacent Coordinate Display pane, select what sort of coordinates are to be used.
In the Coordinate Font pane, select the font, size and colour of the text and the background
Tips:
colour to be used for the coordinate labels.
In the Shape Length Font pane, select the font, size and colour of the text and the
background colour to be used for the labels of distances between points.  The zoom options remain active until you press the Esc key or click the button.
In the Feature Length Font pane, select the font, size and colour of the text and the  If you intend to zoom into an area, it can help reduce memory resources if you start by only
background colour to be used for the labels of total distance. displaying basic line data, such as coastline or roads. Once you are zoomed in, you can
then display layers such as heights and clutter data.
In the Feature Area Font pane, select the font, size and colour of the text and the
background colour to be used for the area size labels.

Tips: About the Add Network Element Toolbox

 If you want to enable panning while you are in one of the above modes, you need to press The Add Network Element toolbox contains buttons that enable you to use the Map View window
the 'Ctrl' key. to add elements to the Site Database. Here is an example of the toolbox, which depends on your
 When you use a tool from the Distance Measurement toolbox in the Map View, it is shown technology licences:
on the Map View only as long as the tool is selected. When you select another tool, the
lines, points or areas and their labels created with the first tool are lost. If you wish to
preserve the information displayed by these tools, you can do so by saving it as a vector
using the Vector Manager option from the Map View Tools menu. You can save multiple
points, lines and areas as a single vector. For more information on creating vectors, see
About the Vector Manager on page 256.

About the Zoom Options

There are various zooming options that you can use on the Map View window. These are available
as buttons on the Map View toolbar: Add Network Elements Toolbox

The network element buttons vary in colour and appearance, according to which technologies you
are using.

Zooming options on Map View toolbar

Tip: You can hover the cursor over each button to see which function it performs.
This table describes the buttons:

Button Name Brief Description For information on each of the buttons, see 'About the ASSET Radio User Interface' section in the
ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.
Zoom to point Zoom In or Zoom Out at any point on the Map View. After clicking the
button, you can repeatedly left-click to zoom in and right-click to zoom out.
Tip: You can also use the mouse-wheel to zoom in and out.
Zoom from corner Zoom from the corner of your initial mouse click (in any direction).

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This Button Enables You To

About the Move/Edit Network Element Toolbox
Display Exceptions.
Immediately to the right of the Add Network Element toolbox is the Move/Edit Network Element
toolbox, which contains several useful buttons:
Display Co/Adjacent Carrier Assignments.

The toolbars and buttons that you see are always dependent on the products you have installed.
For more information on the above functions, see the ASSET Radio User Reference Guide.

Move/Edit Network Elements Toolbox About the Candidate Options Toolbox

This table shows the buttons in this toolbox: The Candidate Options toolbox contains the following buttons:

This Button Enables You To

Move a Network Element.

Move an Antenna.
Candidate Options Toolbox

Re-orientate an Antenna.
This Button Enables You To

Move a Cell. Make a Candidate.

Move a Property. Break a Candidate.

Clone a Network Element. Show Search Area.

Show Candidates.
The toolbars and buttons that you see are always dependent on the products you have installed.
For specific information, see the relevant User Reference Guide.
Set Search Area.

About the Cell Associations Toolbox

Cancel Search Area.
The Cell Associations toolbox contains the following buttons:

Tip: When you click a button on the toolbar, you remain in that mode until you until you press the

Esc key or click the button.

For more information on the above functions, see Using Nominal and Candidate Properties on
Cell Associations Toolbox page 393.

This table describes the buttons:

About the Link Toolbox
This Button Enables You To
The Link toolbox contains the following buttons if you have all of the tools installed:
Add a Neighbour Cell.

Display Neighbours.

Add an Exception Cell.

Link Toolbox

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This table describes the buttons: The Map Information window can display a variety of data about the Map View window. As you
move the mouse cursor over the map, the Map Information window displays information related to
This Button Enables You To the specific pixel under the cursor including location, height above sea level, the clutter category
building height and nearest cell.
Add Point to Point Link.

Add Point to Multi-Point Link.

Add Point to Multi-Point Hub.

Move Point to Multi-Point Hub.

Add Back to Back Link. Example of Map Information pane displaying pixel-specific information

Add Reflector Link. To display this window:

In the Map View window:
Add Multi Radio Link.
From the View menu, click Show Map Information.
- or -
Add Dual Polar Link.

Add Logical Connection. On the Map View toolbar, click the small arrow next to the button, then click .
(Tip: You can also use the toggling option by pressing Ctrl+G on the keyboard.)
Add Cellular Connection.
For more information about the Map Information window, see Viewing Information about a Specific
Pixel on page 111.
Use the Site Visibility tool.

About the Layer Control Pane

Break Link.
The Layer Control Pane appears at the left of the Map View. It enables you to choose which data
Remove Logical/Cellular Connection. types you want to show, and to customise their display settings.

Here is an example:
Delete Point to Multi-Point Hub.

The toolbars and buttons that you see are always dependent on the products you have installed.
For specific information on the functions in the Link toolbox, see the ASSET Backhaul User
Reference Guide. Logical and Cellular connections are also described in the ASSET User
Reference Guide.

About the Map Information Pane

To get information about a particular point on the map, you can display the Map Information
window, either attached to the bottom of a Map View window or detached from it. When there is no
open Map View window, the Map Information window is automatically closed.

Layer Control Pane

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You can close the Layer Control Pane by clicking on the X in the top right corner.
About the Microwave Antennas Dialog Box
Alternatively, click in the Map View toolbar.
The Microwave Antennas dialog box has a similar structure as the Cellular Antennas dialog box,
You can then click the same button to open it again. but the parameters on the tabs are slightly different.

There are three tabs, each performing a different function: For more information, see Adding Microwave Antennas on page 351.

 Layer Order:
Shows the currently selected data types in the order that they are displayed.
About the Feeders Dialog Box

The layer ordering buttons enable re-ordering. There are also buttons for removing layers. This picture shows an example of the Feeders dialog box:
The display settings can be customised by double-clicking the appropriate item.
 Legend:
Shows information relating to the data types currently displayed, such as the display
symbols, colours and values assigned.
 Data Types:
Lists the different categories of data types that can be displayed. Includes items such as
vectors, heights, clutter, traffic arrays, coverage arrays, and network element filters.
The display settings can be customised by double-clicking the appropriate item.

For more detailed information, see Using the Layer Control Pane, and its associated topics.

About the Equipment Windows

The following sections provide a brief introduction to the various types of equipment in ASSET.
Their availability depends on which products are licensed and installed.
Feeders dialog box
About the Cellular Antennas Dialog Box For more information, see Creating Feeders on page 359.
This picture shows an example of the Cellular Antennas dialog box:
About the Cell Equipment Dialog Box
This picture shows an example of the Cell Equipment dialog box:

Cellular Antennas Dialog Box Cell Equipment dialog box

For more information, see Using the Cellular Antennas Dialog Box on page 319. For more information, see Creating Cell Equipment on page 357.

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For more information, see:

About the BTS Equipment Dialog Box
 Adding Logical and Cellular Connections on the Map on page 92
This picture shows an example of the BTS Equipment dialog box:  Adding Logical and Cellular Connections in the Site Database on page 243
 Viewing and Editing Logical/Cellular Connections on page 401
 About the Buttons in Sandboxes on page 62

About the Message Log Window

The Message Log window opens automatically when a project is started and contains messages
and warnings:

Message Log

BTS Equipment dialog box General tab
You can use this to keep track of different types of BTS equipment that might be used in your
network, including different vendors and different equipment models.
If any of the mapping directories are set incorrectly, the product cannot display that information. To
rectify this it is necessary to close the project and change the relevant directory before re-opening
the project.
This table shows the types of messages you might see:

For more information, see Creating Site (BTS) Equipment on page 356. Type of Message For Example

Confirmation messages You have opened a project.

About the Logical/Cellular Connection Database Window Ready message Login has been completed.
Messages relating to files Incomplete map data.
In the Logical/Cellular Connection Database window, you can view and edit details of
logical/cellular connections (or interfaces) that you have created in the project network. Warnings Failure to commit something to the database.
Out of sequence tasks Committing a site which uses equipment which has not yet
Every connection active in the selected filter is displayed in a list view, showing its end points and been committed.
the amount of traffic it carries. In the Connection Types column, the type of connection is shown.
An asterisk is shown if the connection has not been Committed. Permission warning You do not have permission to perform the requested task.

The following picture shows an example of the Logical/Cellular Connection Database window:
About the Wastebasket
When you delete elements, they move to the Wastebasket. These elements have been deleted
only from your private area of the database, so other users will still be able to work on the "deleted"
item.

Example Logical/Cellular Connection Database Window

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This picture shows an example of the Wastebasket: As an ASSET user, you can use the Licence Administrator to:
 Get licences
 Drop licences
 Check out (commute) licences for usage remote from the network server, based on a
specified number of days
 Edit the Startup option to determine your default licence configuration

To access the Licence Administrator:

From the Help menu, click Licence Administrator.

The Licence Administrator dialog box will show a list of licences, with the following information:

Column Name Description Possible Values

Name The licence name can refer to a product licence, The list is dependent on
technology licence, or functionality licence. your organisational
purchases and your
system administrator.
Type Whether the item is currently licensed to you, and if so, Network, Local, or
Wastebasket Showing a Variety of Deleted Items whether the licence is Network or Local. Unlicensed
Expiry The expiry date of the licence. If a licence has been Date and Time
checked out (commuted), this will be a short-term date.
About Add-Ins
Allowed Whether you can GET or DROP this licence. Yes or No
You can access a number of utilities and third party tools by selecting Add-Ins from the File menu: Note: These options are not applicable to the ASSET
Product Suite licence.
Commute Allowed Whether you can check this item out for usage that is Yes or No
remote from the network.
Note: This also depends whether your organisation
allows commutable licences.

For more information about how licensing configurations and permissions can be controlled by the
system administrator, and further licensing information, see the ASSET Installation and
Administration Guide.

Note: Smart City Explorer and SpaceEyes will only appear on this menu if they are installed before
ASSET. Getting or Dropping Licences
To get or drop licences:

About the Licence Administrator 1. In the Licence Administrator dialog box, select the appropriate item(s). You can hold the
Ctrl or Shift keys down to multi-select.
TEOCO provides a range of licences specific to the products, technologies and functionality that it 2. Click the Get or Drop button, as appropriate.
provides and supports.

The licensing system always starts after you have logged in to ASSET.
The Licence Administrator enables you to view and edit the licences that are available to you
after logging in to the database. Your access to them is primarily dependent on which licences your
organisation has purchased, but may be further controlled (on a user or group basis) by your
system administrator.
77
Note: If your Startup option is currently set to 'User Configuration', the Overwrite
Existing (User) Configuration checkbox becomes active. You should select this option if
you want to use your modified configuration for future sessions. However, if you want your
changes to be temporary (that is, for this session only), you do not need to select this
option.
3. Click Save.
The Licence Administrator dialog box closes.
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Commuting Licences About the Distributed Task Agent Menu

To commute (check out) licences for usage that is remote from the network server: If your ASSET installation has been set up so that your machine can be used as an agent for
processing distributed tasks, you can enable or disable this processing.
1. In the Licence Administrator dialog box, select the appropriate item(s). You can hold the
Ctrl or Shift keys down to multi-select. To do this:
2. Click the Check Out button.
1. Right-click on the Distributed Predictions or Distributed Arrays icon in your system
3. In the dialog box that appears, from the drop-down box, select the number of days that you tray as applicable.
want to check out the licence for.
2. From the menu that appears, select Enable or Disable as required.
4. Click Continue.
If you select enable, your machine will be used for distributed task processing according to a policy
5. The Save button will only be active if you have made any other changes that are not related set by your system administrator.
to commuting.
For more information on how this process operates, and how to set it up, see the 'Distributed Tasks'
o If the button is active, click Save. The Licence Administrator dialog box closes. chapter in the ASSET Installation and Administration Guide.
o If the button is inactive, click Cancel to close the dialog box.

Tip: You can check licences back in at any time, using the Check In button.

Editing your Startup Option

By default, the licensing system attempts to obtain all the licences to which you are entitled. If
required, there are several other options.

To edit your Startup option in the Licence Administrator:

1. Click in the Startup Option drop-down box.

2. Select the required option:

Option Description

All Attempts to obtain all the licences to which you are entitled.
Note: The licences are dependent on the software your organisation has
purchased, and also on your system administrator.
Prompt Displays the Licence Administrator dialog box immediately after you have
logged in to ASSET, so that you can select or deselect the licences you require.
When you click Start, this starts the licensing system, and all selected licences
will be requested automatically. In most situations, this option is not normally
necessary, because you can access the Licence Administrator at any stage
after logging in. But there may be occasions where it is useful.
Note: This configuration will always overwrite your user configuration (see below).
User This enables you to specify your own licence configuration. If you make
Configuration changes, the Overwrite Existing (User) Configuration enables you to save that
configuration for future sessions. Otherwise, the previous user configuration will
remain unchanged.
Group Obtains the licences determined by the user groups that are configured for
Configuration licence control by your system administrator. Your licence entitlement therefore
depends on which group(s) you belong to.

Note: All the above are dependent on any licensing configurations and permissions set by
your system administrator.

3. Click Save.
The Licence Administrator dialog box closes.

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4 Viewing and Editing Networks on the Map Selecting Data Types to View on the Map
You can use the Data Types tab of the Layer Control Pane to control which data types to view.
The Map View window is a fundamental part of the ASSET suite in which you can view all the
The data types available for display include vectors, text, backdrops, web maps, height data, clutter
different elements of your network including site data, connectivity and mapping data. As with all
data, network element filters, cell information, network connections and coverage.
windows, the Map View and Site Database windows are synchronised so that changes you make
in one are reflected in the other. For example, when you click something in the map, the Site
To control which data types to view:
Database window updates dynamically.
1. In the Map View, in the Layer Control Pane, click the Data Types tab.
To open a Map View window:
Here is an example of this tab:
On the main toolbar, click the New 2D View button .
A blank Map View window opens.

Tips:
 You can open multiple Map View windows to display different kinds of data (or different
regions) simultaneously.
 You can include Map Views in workspaces. See About Workspaces on page 55.
 You can export map layers using the GIS Export facility. See Exporting Map Layers using
GIS Export on page 441.

Using the Layer Control Pane

The Layer Control Pane enables you to choose which data types you want to show in the Map
View window, and customise their display settings. It appears at the left of the Map View window.

There are three tabs, each performing a different function:

 Layer Order:
Shows the currently selected data types in the order that they are displayed.
The layer ordering buttons enable re-ordering. There are also buttons for removing layers.
The display settings can be customised by double-clicking the appropriate item.
 Legend:
Shows information relating to the data types currently displayed, such as the display
symbols, colours and values assigned.
 Data Types:
Lists the different categories of data types that can be displayed. Includes items such as
vectors, heights, clutter, traffic arrays, coverage arrays, and network element filters. The
display settings can be customised by double-clicking the appropriate item.
To customise how the items are displayed:
The tabs are described in the following topics.
You can click X at the top right of a Layer Control Pane to close it.
You can click on the Map View's toolbar to re-open a Layer Control Pane.
Tip: To modify the layer order of the selected data types, use the Layer Order tab.
2. To display a data type on the map, select the checkbox next to the data type.
If you are using the Tiled View, you can double-click the checkbox to display your chosen
data type on all the tiles. A c appears in the checkbox when you have done this. Double-
clicking again will remove the data type from all the tiles and the c from the checkbox.
Where data types are grouped by category and sub-category (such as clutter data) you can
select or deselect all child items by selecting or clearing the parent item.
3. When you have made changes, the Redraw button changes to Apply. Click Apply to
update the Map View window to display your chosen data types.
Double-click on the item to open the Display Properties dialog box, enabling you to
customise how items are displayed. For information on this, see Changing How Data
Appears on the Map on page 171.

At the bottom of the Layer Control Pane are the Redraw/Apply and Snap to View buttons.

When you have made changes on the Layer Order or Data Types tabs, the Redraw button
changes to Apply. Click Apply to update the Map View with your changes.

If you have moved the Layer Control Pane away from the left of the Map View window, you can
click Snap to View to restore its default position.
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 Viewing and Editing Networks on the Map
Tips:
 If you intend to zoom into an area, it can help reduce memory resources if you start by only
displaying basic line data, such as coastline or roads. Once you are zoomed in, you can
then display layers such as heights and clutter data.
 This tab also includes a very useful Show Selected button, that automatically expands the
folders with items currently selected, and collapses the others. It is a quick way of seeing
which data types are currently active.
Changing the Display Order of the Layers
You can use the Layer Order tab of the Layer Control Pane to manage the order in which the
data types are displayed, so that one layer is not hidden by another. This is useful when you have
many items displayed simultaneously on the Map View window, and especially if you are viewing
coverage arrays.
To manage the order in which the selected data types are displayed:
1. In the Map View, in the Layer Control Pane, click the Layer Order tab.
This tab shows the currently selected data types in their display layer order, where the
highest item in the list is the one with the highest layer priority. Here is an example:
Tip: To select more data types for display, use the Data Types tab.
2. To move a data type up or down in the order, select the required layer and click the up or
down arrow buttons as required.
3. When you have finished, click Redraw to update the Map View window with your changes.
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ASSET User Reference Guide
Other options:
 To delete data layers, select the data layer(s) that you want to delete, then click the
Remove Selected button. You can also click Remove All. Both these buttons are the
equivalent of clearing the checkboxes in the list of data types.
 Double-clicking an item opens the Display Properties dialog box, enabling you to
customise how items are displayed. For information on this, see Changing How Data
Appears on the Map on page 171.
Displaying and Changing Legend Information
The Legend tab of the Layer Control Pane shows the display symbols, colours and values
assigned to the data types currently on display. For example, it shows the signal coverage
schemas for any displayed arrays.
Here is an example:
Example of Legend tab
This tab also enables you to determine which items are shown in any printouts you make of the
Map View. For information on printing, see Printing from the Map View on page 124.
Selecting an Item on the Map to Find it in the Site Database
To select items in the Map View window, click the button .
This enables you to select any network element in the Map View, and find it automatically in the
Site Database.
Tip: If you have performed functions that are repeatable, such as creating or moving sites, this
button is useful for stopping the repeatable functionality of the cursor, and returning to normal
mode.
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To add a Graph to a tile:

Using the Tiled View 1. In the Map View window,right-click on your chosen tile and from the menu that appears,
click Target Graph.
You can use the Tiled View to see up to four maps within one Map View window for comparison,
or you can combine maps with the Pixel Analyser and/or Graphs. 2. On the Data Types tab of the Layer Control Pane, right-click on the required array under
Simulator or Array Clipboard.
To select the Tiled View:
3. Click Graphs.
In the Map View window, from the View menu, select Tiled View
- or - Note: This option is only available on the right-click menu for array types for which the
Statistics option is also available.
In the Map View's toolbar, click .
The graph associated with your choice of array appears on the tile. You can click the Undock or
The view previously displayed in the Single View appears by default in all four tiles of the Tiled
Close buttons on the tile to perform those functions. If you minimise the Map View window
View, at the same magnification. This is because the Lock Tiles Pan Zoom option is on by default.
sufficiently, the graph undocks automatically. Only one tile at a time can be designated to display a
When this option is on, any zooming or panning of the selected tile is applied to the other Map
graph.
View tiles. When the option is turned off (which can only be done in the Tiled View), you can still
apply the current pan and zoom settings and the selected display layers of the Single View to all
four Tiled View tiles by holding down the Shift key when you change views.
Viewing Web Maps
The Lock Tiles Pan Zoom option is accessible from the View menu or the toggle in the Map Among the data types available for display are web maps, as shown in this example:
View's toolbar.

You can use the scroll-wheel on your mouse or the Zoom options from the View menu to change
the magnification. For more information, see Zooming on the Map on page 98. This picture shows
an example of the Tiled View with all four tiles in use:

To add a map view to a tile:

1. Click on the required tile to select it. A bold border indicates the selected tile.

2. Choose what you want to display in the same way as for the Single View. For more
information, see Selecting Data Types to View on the Map on page 82. Example of Web Map displayed on Map View

To add the Pixel Analyser to a tile:
In the Map View window, right-click on your chosen tile and from the menu that appears,
click Pixel Analyser.
The top two panes of the Pixel Analyser appears on the tile. At the top left of the Pixel Analyser
tile you can click Options to access available functions including Undock, Close, and Target
Graph Tile. If you click Target Graph Tile, the Graph and Pixel Analyser displays are combined
on the chosen tile. Only one tile at a time can be designated to display the Pixel Analyser. You will
need to undock the Pixel Analyser if you wish to access the Vector Analysis pane.
85
Web maps are downloaded from the source specified in ASSET Administrator or, in the cases of
Bing Maps and OpenStreetMap maps, from a fixed source. For more information on how to specify
a web map source, how to group map sources, and on how to obtain a licence key to use Microsoft
Bing Maps, see the ASSET Installation and Administration Guide.
Web maps are downloaded to the cache folder specified on the Shared Data Directories tab of the
Project Settings dialog box. For more information on specifying the path to this folder and limiting
its size, see About the Shared Data Directories Tab on page 25.
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Important: When you perform an XML Export, this setting will dictate what happens at the later
Adding, Moving and Deleting Network Elements on the Map stage when you perform an XML Import; the PLMN set as default in the exported file will be set as
default in the Site Database of the receiving project. Therefore, please pay attention to which PLMN
You can add network elements by using the toolbar in the Map View window or by using the Site is set as the default network in the project that you are exporting from.
Database window.

Note: Your ability to add items depends on the products you have installed and the permissions
you have been given by your administrator.
This section describes how to use the tools on the Map View toolbar that are common to more than
one product. Any buttons specific to only one product are described in the appropriate User
Reference Guide for that product.
Note: Before you start adding network elements:
 It is important to check that the default network is set correctly in the Site Database. See
Setting a Default Network on page 87.
 It is wise to specify parameters for all new network elements that you will be adding. You
can do this by using templates; for more information, see Using Templates for Network
Elements on page 224.
Adding Properties
In the Map View window, you can position different pieces of cellular equipment on the same
location called a Property. A Property is a technology-independent real estate location whereas a
site refers to the technology/equipment that is located at the Property on which it is parented.
You can add, delete and move Properties in the Map View window. For more information about
Properties, see About Properties on page 233.
To add a new Property to the current Map View window:
1. In the Add Network Element toolbox (top-left corner) click the Add Property button .
2. Click in the map at the desired location for the Property.
The Property is automatically added and Applied to the Site Database but not Committed.

Tip: When you have selected the location of the new Property, press Esc to return to the
Setting a Default Network Select mode.

When you have multiple networks (PLMN and/or Logical) in the project, it is important to set a For information on how to add network elements (such as sites, nodes, MSC, BSC, RNC and so
default network in the Site Database before you add any network elements manually in the Map on) to the Map View, see the 'Configuring Networks in ASSET Radio' chapter in the ASSET Radio
View. User Reference Guide.

To do this:

1. Ensure the Site Database Network Display Mode is set to either 'Logical Links' or Automatically Generating Sites/Nodes
'Network View'.
To speed up the setting up of the nominal network in your project, you can automatically generate
2. In the left pane of the Site Database, select the network you want to make the default, for sites or nodes onto selected Properties, based on a specific site or node template. By setting up a
example: Property-based filter, you can determine on which Properties the sites/nodes are to be created (the
Properties can either be empty or already have existing sites/nodes).

Important: Each time you run this feature, for non-GSM technologies, new nodes will be added to
the Site Database, under a newly created separate PLMN. Please ensure you have created your
required Property filter. For GSM, sites will always be added under the PLMN that has been set as
3. Right-click and select Set As Default Network:
the default network.

To do this:

1. Click on the Utilities tab.

A '+' sign will appear to the left of the network name, for example:
2. From the Tools menu, click Auto-Generate Sites/Nodes.

3. In the dialog box that appears, select the (Property-based) filter that you want to use.

4. Select the site or node template that you want to apply to the filter.
Any network elements that you add manually in the Map View will be added to the default network.
5. Click OK.
Tip: Remember to click back on the RADIO tab afterwards.

You have now applied an instance of the template (that is, a new site or node) to every Property in
the filter.
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Adding Network Elements with a Selected Template Copying Network Elements

When you add network elements in the Map View window using the Add Network Element To copy a network element in the Map View window:
toolbox, the template is always the one selected in the Templates dialog box. So, if you want to
use a different template, you would need to change this first in this dialog box. 1. On the Map View window, click the down arrow on the Move Network Element toolbox,

However, if you need to frequently switch between different templates when adding a particular and then click the Clone Object button , as shown here:
type of network element, it may be easier to use the Tool Options dialog box from the Map View
menu.

To do this:

1. In the Map View window, from the Tools menu, click Options.

2. In the Tool Options dialog box, select the Add Element tab.

3. In the Object Type drop-down list, select the network element type.

4. In the Template drop-down list, select the template that you want to be active when you
add this network element type.

5. In the Property Template drop-down list, select the template that you want to be active in
the event of a new Property being required (only active when applicable).

Note: The Templates dialog box (under the Database menu) is automatically updated
with the new default. Therefore the same default will also operate when elements are 2. In the Map View window, click the network element you want to copy. If multiple sites are in
added in the Site Database. close proximity, a list appears from which you can select the correct element.

6. Click in the map at the desired location of the object. 3. Click at a new location to paste a copy of the network element. If the new location is not a
Property, a Property is created for this location.
If the location is not on an existing Property, a new Property is added automatically
together with the object (they will only be visible if you they have been included in the The network element is copied and is shown in the Site Database.
display properties for the filter).
Note: If you do not have group permissions to edit fields, the copy will have its fields reset
The object and (if appropriate) Property are automatically added and applied to the
to their default values. Your administrator may also have configured the system so that all
database.
copied elements have default field values. For more information on fields, see Viewing and
Editing Fields for Network Elements on page 280.
Note: You need the correct privileges to be able to add and modify network elements. Contact your
administrator if you think your permissions need to be changed.
Deleting Network Elements
For more information about templates, see Adding Network Elements Based on Templates on page
240 and the 'Configuring Networks in ASSET Radio' chapter in the ASSET Radio User Reference To delete objects from the Map View window:
Guide.

1. Click the Delete Property button to delete a Property or the Delete button to
delete any other network element, then click the object you want to delete.

Warning: If you delete a Property, everything on the Property is deleted.

2. Click Yes to confirm the deletion.

The deleted item is sent to the Wastebasket from where it can be restored or deleted from
the master database.
If you make a mistake, and wish to restore items, use the Wastebasket.

Note: If you later want to create another object (of the same type) with the same name, you must
permanently delete the object from the Wastebasket.

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Moving Network Elements Adding Logical and Cellular Connections on the Map
To move a Property (or all the network elements on a Property): If you want to route traffic across any supported network type, you must first connect the network
elements with logical and/or cellular connections. This table describes the two types of connection:
1. See the Important Information at the end of this topic.
Connection Type Technology Description
2. Click the Move Property button and click the required location. Logical All Create logical paths to carry traffic between any two network
elements, irrespective of any network hierarchies.
To move any other type of network element in the Map View window:
Cellular All Create logical paths to carry traffic between network elements, based
1. Ensure that in the filter that you have selected, you have chosen a symbol and colour for on any network hierarchies in the Site Database.
Properties, because it is easier to move items onto Properties when you can see them. Here are some examples:

2. Click the down arrow on the Move Network Element toolbox, and then click the Move GSM: You can only create cellular connections between MSCs and
BSCs, and between BSCs and Sites.
Network Element button . UMTS: You can only create cellular connections between
WMSCs/SGSNs and RNCs, and between RNCs and NodeBs.
3. Click the desired network element, for example a site. Similar restrictions are in place for the other technologies.
Where more than one element is in the same location, you can select the required item Notes:
from the list that appears.
 There are two exceptions to the hierarchy restriction for cellular
4. Click the new location. If the new location is not a Property, the network element and its connections: (UMTS) RNC to RNC and (LTE) eNodeB to
current Property will be moved. eNodeB are also possible.
 If you have manually created hierarchies in the Site Database,
The network element is moved and this is reflected in the Site Database.
the cellular connections are created automatically, and are
shown in the Logical/Cellular Connections Database.
5. Commit the change or restore the last Committed settings.
You can create logical and cellular connections in two different ways:
Important Information about Moving Properties:
 Using the Site Database. For more information on how to do this, see Adding Logical and
When you change the location of a Property (whether by using the Map View or the Site Database), Cellular Connections in the Site Database on page 243.
you should be aware of the following:
Tip: If you use this method, you can create more than one logical/cellular connection at the
 ASSET Backhaul users: If you have any links attached to a Property that you move, the
same time.
PtP Linkend Bearing and PtP Linkend Inclination values will not be updated in the
database. They will be incorrect in any reports that you generate directly from the database
(for example, using Crystal Reports®), but the correct values will be displayed elsewhere in  Using the Map View.
the tool. To add a logical or cellular connection on the Map View:
 ASSET Radio and ASSET Backhaul users: When you change the location of a Property,
the behaviour of associated antenna locations depends on the Absolute/Relative setting in 1. Click the down arrow on the Make Link toolbox (in the toolbar on the left of the Map View
the Site Database (this setting is individual to each antenna). This affects:
window), and then click either the Add Logical Connection button or the Add
o Cellular antennas assigned to cells (ASSET Radio)
o Microwave antennas assigned to links (ASSET Backhaul) Cellular Connection button , as required.
The behaviour is as follows: 2. Click the starting network element for the connection.
o If the setting is Absolute, the antenna will remain in its original location, even after the
Property has been relocated. (You can subsequently change the antenna location, if Note: If you are creating a cellular connection, ensure that you follow the hierarchy rules
required.) described above.
o If the setting is Relative, the antenna will move in accord with the Property, maintaining
its relative distance from the new location of the Property (which means its absolute 3. Click the destination network element for the connection.
coordinates will change).
So, in summary, the Absolute/Relative setting in the Site Database (ASSET Radio and
ASSET Backhaul) and Link Database (ASSET Backhaul) has a significant effect on the
above behaviour.
If you change the setting for an antenna in the Site Database or Link Database, ensure you
press Apply, because the behaviour as described above is only applicable when the setting
is Applied.

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A bi-directional connection is made between the two network elements:

About Displaying Site Visibility
Site visibility predictions are useful:
 For identifying possible connection points into the transmission network for new sites
 In assisting you when you are doing a frequency plan

You can display visibilities for a single site or multiple sites on the Map View. This picture shows an
example:

The connection is automatically stored in the Logical/Cellular Connection Database:

In the Logical/Cellular Connection Database, you can view the traffic demand and add
routes and hops to logical/cellular connections. For more information, see Viewing and Displaying Site Visibility in the Map View window
Editing Logical/Cellular Connections on page 401.
This table shows the two ways in which you can predict site visibility:
Note: If you have ASSET Backhaul installed, you can route any of these connections
across links. For more information, see the ASSET Backhaul User Reference Guide. Prediction Description

Line of Sight only Displays all areas within the defined calculation area, which have
been calculated to have a clear line of sight to the selected site.
Line Of Sight is a necessity when planning microwave transmission
links. In locations where LOS is not possible, you would need to
resort to different transmission media, for example satellite or fibre
link.
Line of Sight with Fresnel When microwave planning, it is not just line of sight that is important,
zone clearance but whether you have clearance in the zone around it, the Fresnel
Zone.
This prediction displays all areas within the defined calculation area
but uses user-defined clearance rules for the calculation instead of
straightforward line of sight.

Both of these methods are supported by the Site Visibility function in ASSET.

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Displaying Site Visibility
To display the site visibility of a Property:
1. In the Map View window, click on the Make Link toolbox:
2. Click the Site Visibility button
The Site Visibility Settings dialog box appears:
3. Select the site visibility settings you require. This table describes the settings available:
Viewing and Editing Networks on the Map ASSET User Reference Guide
Setting Description
Use Clutter Heights Select the height option(s), if any, that you want to include in the
visibility calculation. If you select to use Clutter Heights, you must
Use Building Raster Heights also specify a propagation model.
Use Building Vector Heights Note: If you select to use building vector heights, their position is
calculated based upon the position at which the vector line intersects
the profile.
K Factor This geoclimatic factor is used to calculate the effective earth radius.
Tip: The usual geoclimatic factor is 1.333.
Start Antenna Height (m agl) The height of the 1st antenna, which is always above ground level.
End Antenna Height (m) The height of the 2nd antenna.
Use End Antenna Height Select how the height of the receiving antenna will be calculated:
Above Clutter Height
 If you chose to use clutter heights, you can choose to calculate
. Use End Antenna Height the height of the end antenna using clutter. Here, antenna height
Above Building Height = DTM + Clutter + End Antenna Height.
 If you chose to use building raster heights and/or building vector
heights, you can choose to calculate the height of the end
antenna using building heights. Here, antenna height = DTM +
Building Height + End Antenna Height.
Fresnel Clearance (0-1.0) The Fresnel clearance required, used for microwave link planning.
and Frequency (GHz)
Valid values are real numbers between 0.0 and 1.0 with a 'good'
value being the default of 0.6, although if planning at higher
frequencies, (over 36 GHz ) use 1.0.
Visibility Area (Degrees) The extent of the visibility area that will be calculated. 360 degrees
represents a full circle around the property or site, 180 degrees a half
circle and so on.
Tip: Restricting the area of interest to particular angles reduces the
calculation time required and the amount of information shown in the
Map View window.
Preset Radius (Km) You can choose a predefined radius of the area that will be checked
for visibility.
K
Note: It is suggested that e value exceeded for 99.9% of the time is used with between 0
and 100 percent first Fresnel clearance, depending on the frequency, geographical area
and atmospheric climate.
4. Click the desired Property or site.
5. If you used a Visibility Area of less than 360 degrees, angle the visibility area as required.
6. Drag the cursor outwards and, if you have not already defined a Preset Radius in the
Settings dialog box, click to specify the required radius.
Tip: If you select the wrong site, press Esc on your keyboard to select a different Property
or site.
7. If you have data of different resolutions, from the menu that appears, select the mapping
resolution you want to use in the calculation.
Tip: You can obtain more accurate results by using higher resolutions.
During visibility scanning calculations, measurements or "scans" are taken at a limited
number of points in each resolution section (a square of resolution which that visibility is
being calculated for). If an obstruction is found at any single point, then a report of no
visibility is made for that entire section.
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The visibility of the site is shown in black by default. For example, here the site visibility is
good towards the coast, but poor towards the hills:
Zooming on the Map
This table describes how you can zoom in:

Option Click the appropriate button and then

To zoom in or out by Zoom In: Left-click on the map at the place where you want the zoom to be
a factor of two centred.
Zoom Out: Right-click on the map at the place where you want the zoom to be
centred.
Tip: You can also use your mouse-wheel to zoom in and out.
To zoom in or out by At the place where you want the zoom to be centred, hold the left mouse
dragging to your button down while dragging the mouse downwards (zoom in) or upwards
preferred zoom level (zoom out) on the map. Release the mouse button when finished.
Tip: You can also use your mouse-wheel to zoom in and out.

8. As with all items, to change the display properties and antenna height settings, select the
item required in the list of data types, which in this case, is will be under Site Visibility: To zoom to an area At the place where you want the zoom to begin, hold the left mouse button
contained in a down while dragging the mouse outwards from the corner. You can do this in
rectangle (from a any direction. Release the mouse button when finished.
corner)
The aspect ratio of the region will match that of the current Map View.

To zoom to an area At the place where you want the zoom to be centred, hold the left mouse
contained in a button down while dragging the mouse outwards from the centre. Release the
rectangle (from the mouse button when finished.
When site visibility has been created, it will automatically be refreshed using the existing centre)
The aspect ratio of the region will match that of the current Map View.
settings, if the site is moved to a new location.

Changing Antenna Heights Used in the Site Visibility Calculation To zoom to a scale Choose from the factor and distance options. You can also choose Last view
factor or distance or Home view.
To change the antenna height settings used in the site visibility calculation: If this button is not initially visible, you need to click the small black arrow.

1. In the Map View, in the Layer Control Pane, click the Data Types tab.
To zoom to the This will set the zoom area to show all the network elements that are included
2. Under the Site Visibility category, double-click the appropriate Property. network elements in the currently selected Filters in the Layer Control Pane.
belonging to the
selected Filters in the If this button is not initially visible, you need to click the small black arrow.
3. On the Colour/Style tab, ensure the Use Default Settings checkbox is not selected.
Map View.
4. Edit the transmitter height and receiver height as required.

5. If required, on the Parameters tab, edit the Fresnel zone clearance values.
To zoom to the This will set the zoom area to show all the network elements that are included
6. Click OK. network elements in the currently selected Filters in the Layer Control Pane. This zoom level
belonging to the takes account of the primary prediction radius that has been assigned to the
7. Click the Redraw button. selected Filters in the relevant cells and repeaters, or the global override setting (if selected) on the
Map View, including Predictions tab of the Array Settings dialog box.
the prediction radius.
If this button is not initially visible, you need to click the small black arrow.
Zooming, Moving and Redrawing the Map
There are several ways of zooming in and out on the map.

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Tips:
Shortcut Keys for Zooming
 To stop zooming, click the button. This table shows the shortcut keys (Ctrl, Alt or Shift) that you can press to switch from one mode to
another.
 For straightforward zooming in and out, you can just use the mouse-wheel, instead of using
the buttons.
 When using the Zoom buttons, you are in Zoom mode. You can hold down Shift to change Note: You have to press and hold down these keys after selecting the mode and before clicking the
temporarily to Pan mode. This is useful for zooming and then scrolling and zooming again. map.

 If you want to zoom to an array that you have just displayed on the Map View, you can use
the 'Zoom to Array' option by right-clicking on the appropriate array in the Data Types list of Current Mode Ctrl key held down Alt key held down Shift key held down
the Layer Control Pane. switches mode to switches mode to switches mode to

Zoom Zoom Out Zoom Box (from corner) Pan

This table describes additional zoom-related options: Zoom Box (from centre) Zoom Box (from corner) - Zoom

Option Do This

To zoom to the last In the Map View window, from the View menu, point to Zoom and then click Repositioning (Panning) the Map
(previous) zoom level. Last. (Or use Ctrl-Z.)
To reposition (pan) the map:
To zoom to the home In the Map View window, from the View menu, point to Zoom and then click
zoom level Home. (Or use Ctrl-H.)
1. Click and hold down the left mouse button and drag the map to the required location.
Tip: Also see Saving a Favourite (Home) Zoom Level on page 99.
2. You can continue to click and drag until you are happy with the position.
To zoom to a region Right-click anywhere on the Map View window, and click Set 2D View
defined by specified Region.
coordinates Note: If you are currently using one of the Distance Measurement toolbox modes (coordinate
The Set 2D View Region dialog box appears. Specify the coordinates
defining the region you require and click Apply. If the area you have points, distance, or area) you need to press the 'Ctrl' key to enable panning.
specified is within the region defined by your project settings, the Map View
window is resized accordingly.
You can also capture the coordinates of the region currently displayed by
clicking the Get Current Coord button. Redrawing the Map
Note: This may be useful for defining a precise region for running coverage
arrays and simulations. But it is different from the 'Home' zoom level (see When you have added or removed display items, you may need to redraw or refresh the
Saving a Favourite (Home) Zoom Level on page 99). information shown in the Map View window.
To zoom all the tiles in From the View menu in the Map View window, select Lock Tiles Pan To do this:
the Tiled View when Zoom.
one tile is zoomed. In the Map View window, right-click and, from the menu that appears, select Redraw.

Saving a Favourite (Home) Zoom Level
You can set a level of zoom as your 'Home'. This performs two important roles:
 It acts as the default zoom level each time you open a new Map View window
 It acts as a zoom level that you can return to at any time
About the GIS Export of Map Layers
The GIS Export facility can export any or all of the map layers (vectors, heights, clutter, coverage
arrays, network element filters and so on) that are currently displayed in the Map View.
You can export any of your map layers for use with:

To do this:  MapInfo
 Google Earth
1. In the Map View window, right-click and from the menu that appears click Set Home.
 ESRI ArcGIS
2. To return to this level of zoom, from the View menu of the Map View, point to Zoom then
click Home. For information on the GIS Export facility, see Exporting Map Layers using GIS Export on page
441.
(Tip: You can also return to Home zoom level by pressing Ctrl+H on the keyboard.)

For information on setting up permanent favourite views, see About Favourite Map Views on page
101.

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Tip: Favourites are very useful in the context of the Map View, but if you want to be able to set up
About Favourite Map Views and reload several dialog boxes (Site Database, Map View, and so on) in chosen positions, you
can use Workspaces.
When you are working on a particular Map View, you can save it as a Favourite. This means you
can easily return to a predefined working environment which can include: Here is a quick comparison:
 The Map Region  Use Favourites if you are only working with the Map View window. Additionally, in the
case of System Favourites, you can share them with other users of the project.
 The display list of items currently selected in the Layer Control Pane
 Use Workspaces when you want to personalise the layout and positioning of several
 The layer ordering
dialog boxes, optionally including the Map View. See About Workspaces on page 55.
 Various categories of array
 The Tiled View (except for Graph or Pixel Analyser tiles) if applicable

When you create a Favourite, you can choose which of the above items you want to save. Saving a Favourite View
When you open a Favourite in the Map View, a Region Polygon vector is automatically created in
To save a Favourite view:
the Regions sub-folder of the User Vectors and Measurements folder on the Data Types tab of
the Layer Control Pane. This vector stores specific region coordinates for quick and easy usage 1. In the Map View window, right-click.
when you run any of the planning or array wizards. For more information, see Creating a Region
Polygon on page 266. 2. From the menu that appears, point to Favourites and click Save As:
There are two possible storage/access locations for Favourites:
 User folder: Enables you to store and access your own Favourites, independently of other
users.
 System folder: Enables you to access a shared pool of Favourites. This depends whether
your administrator has set up a System Favourites folder. If so, and if you have the
'System Favourites' write permission, you can also save or copy any of your own
Favourites (new or existing) into this folder.

Favourites are stored in the folders that were defined in the project's settings. For information on
setting the paths to these folders, see About the Shared Data Directories Tab on page 25.

In the Favourites drop-down, Single View favourites are denoted by a single rectangle icon, Tiled
View favourites by four smaller rectangles. Note: It is generally safer to choose Save As instead of Save, unless you want to modify
and save a previously loaded Favourite.
Here is an example of System Favourites and User Favourites available on the Map View:
The Add New Favourite dialog box appears.

3. You may be able to choose between saving it as a User Favourite or as a System

Favourite. This depends whether your administrator has set up the System folder, and also
depends whether you have the 'System Favourites' write permission.

4. Type a meaningful name for the Favourite and any optional comments.

5. Select the appropriate checkboxes to determine the items you want to save in the
Favourite. The options vary according to what is currently available.

Important: When you save a new Favourite view, the Save Region option is always
enabled by default. You have this choice:
o Leave this option selected if you want this Favourite, when loaded, to always return to
that recorded region, even if the map view you are currently viewing is in a different
region.
o Deselect this option if you prefer this Favourite to be 'region-independent'. This can
Example of Favourites available on Map View offer more flexibility in the situation where you want to use the Favourite in different
map view regions, such that you only want it to remember the list of items currently
selected in the Layer Control Pane.

6. Click OK.

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You can now access the Favourite at any time from the Map View drop-down box. If it was saved The Favourite appears in your Map View window. Here is an example:
as a System Favourite, other users will also be able to access it.

If you are using the Tiled View in the Map View window, two additional options are available from
the right-click menu under Favourites:
 Click Save All Tiles to save all the tiles currently displayed to the current Favourite name.
- or -
 Click Save All Tiles As to save all the tiles currently displayed to a new Favourite name.

Note: Only GIS tiles are saved to your Favourite, so Graph or Pixel Analyser tiles will not be
included.

The Save and Save As options will save the currently selected tile as a Single View Favourite.

Loading a Favourite View

You can load Favourite views from your own 'User' folder and also from a centralised 'System'
folder (if this is set up by your administrator).

To load a Favourite view:

Select the name of the view in the drop-down box at the top of the Map View window:

Tip: Favourites are loaded when you open your project. Whenever there are new Favourites that
are centrally available (for example, your administrator or other users may add new Favourites into
the System folder), you can reload the Favourites without needing to close and reopen the project.
For information on the Organise Favourites dialog box, see Managing Favourite Views.

Managing Favourite Views

In addition to saving and loading individual Favourites, you can also perform several other useful
actions:
 Rename Favourites
 Delete Favourites
 Copy a Favourite from User to System folder
 Copy a Favourite from System to User folder
 Reload Favourites when new ones are available
 Check the usage history to help identify any Favourites that are no longer required

Note: The presence of the System Favourites (and the two Copy options) depends whether your
administrator has set up the System folder. Also, unless you have the 'System Favourites' write
permission, you cannot perform any save, copy, edit or delete actions in the System folder.

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Here is an example of the Organise Favourites dialog box: To copy one or more Favourites from one folder to the other:

1. If applicable to your set-up, in the Organise Favourites dialog box, select the specific item
or items (you can multi-select with Ctrl or Ctrl+Shift).

2. Click Copy to User or Copy to System, as appropriate.

When new Favourites are made available (for example, your administrator may add new Favourites
into the System folder), you can reload the Favourites without needing to close and reopen the
project.

To reload Favourites when new ones are made available:

Click Reload Favourites.

To check Favourite details:

 Look in the Created and Last Used columns to identify Favourites that are no longer
needed, so that you can delete them.
 Look in the Details column for any additional notes you have recorded with a Favourite,
and the View Mode column to see whether it is a Single or a Tiled view.

When you have finished using the Organise Favourites dialog box, click Close.

Searching the Map View Window with the Quick Finder

You can search the Map View window using the Quick Finder dialog box. This enables you to
Organise Favourites dialog box locate items such as a location, Property, link or piece of text or attributes such as carried traffic.
This picture shows an example where any Property ID containing the number "70" is listed in the
To open the Organise Favourites dialog box: Quick finder dialog box and highlighted with an arrow in the Map View window:

1. In the Map View window, right-click.

2. From the menu that appears, point to Favourites and click Organise:

The Organise Favourites dialog box appears.

To rename a Favourite:

1. If applicable to your set-up, select User Favourites or System Favourites from the drop-
down box.

2. Select the specific item and then click Edit.

3. Rename the item and click OK.

To delete a Favourite: Using the Quick Finder with the Map View

1. If applicable to your set-up, select User Favourites or System Favourites from the drop-
down box.

2. Select the specific item and then click Delete.

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To search the map using the Quick Finder: Select This Option To Do This

Select All Select all the items in the search results list and highlight all the
1. Click the Quick Finder button . associated features in the Map View window.
Re-centre in view For single selected items, position the item in the centre of the Map
2. In the first drop-down field select the item that you wish to search for. View window.
3. In the second drop-down field, if applicable, refine your search by selecting a parameter to Re-centre and zoom in view For single selected items, position the item in the centre of the Map
search for. The item and parameter that you have chosen are shown in "Look for" field. View window and zoom in to 5km.
Quick Edit Change the parameters associated with a GSM or UMTS item.
4. If you have selected a parameter at step 3, click the button by the "Where" field.
"Where" in this context is used to mean for example, find all cells where the cell ID includes Generate report Create a report including all the items shown in the list of search
the text "site." results.
You can specify an expression to be applied to the search of your chosen item and Save as selection filter Create a selection filter that can subsequently be used to display the
parameter by selecting an operator and a value. items identified by the search in the Map View window. For more
information on filters, see Using Filters in ASSET on page 282.
Note: The operators available depend on the parameter selected and can include regular
expressions. For more information on these, see Examples of Searching by Regular
Expression on page 108.
Using Jump To Location
You can also select the Not option to locate items that do not match the expression or
value chosen. You can jump to a specified location in the Map View window. When you do this, that requested
location will be highlighted and will be centred in the window.
5. Optionally click the button by the "Search in" field. For all items except text a drop-
down list enables you to choose whether to search in a filter, a view, or in existing search To do this:
results.
If you choose to search in: 1. On the Map View toolbar, click the small arrow next to the button.
o A filter, specify which filter
o A view, use the Click View button to select one 2. From the extra set of buttons that appear, click the Jump to Location button . The
Jump to Location dialog box appears. This picture shows an example:
o Existing results, a subset of these that match your refined search criteria will appear in
the "Results" field after you click the Find button
For text items a drop-down field enables you to choose whether to search all text or just the
text currently displayed in the Map View window.

6. Optionally click on the button by the "Highlight on view" field. You can use this to
determine how your search results are to be identified in the Map View window. You can
choose:
o An arrow or a target symbol to highlight the item
o The colour of the arrow or target
3. Select the type of coordinates you are going to use. You can choose from GRID
o The colour of the surround (halo) around the arrow or target coordinates (in Eastings and Northings), LL (Longitude Latitude in degrees, minutes and
o The colour of the symbol (dot) representing the item seconds) or DLL (Decimal Longitude Latitude).
o Whether or not text identifying the item is displayed 4. Type your coordinates into the appropriate fields.
o The colour of the text used
5. Click the Jump to button. Your chosen location is highlighted with an arrow in the Map
o The size and transparency of the arrow or target used View window.

7. Click Find. Your search results are shown in the Map View window and listed in the Quick
Finder dialog box under the "Results" field.
Examples of Searching by Regular Expression
You can select the Append option if you want the current search results to be retained and
appended to the results of your next search. This table shows the options available if you Regular expressions allow complex search criteria to be defined and are used:
right-click on any of the results listed:
 In creating static filters in the Filter Wizard
 To add items to the Selection filter
 When searching on the map

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 In the neighbour chooser dialog box This picture shows an example of using regular expressions in the Selection Filter. For more
 In advanced antenna searches information on this, see About the Selection Expert and Selection Filter on page 301.

 When enforcing naming conventions for network elements

For its regular expressions, ASSET uses the Perl engine. Perl is widely documented on the
internet. For example, you can read more about Perl at this location:

http://perl.org

This table gives some examples of regular expressions that you might use in ASSET:

Enter To Find

.* Everything.
^BSC.* All BSCs beginning with BSC.
^PROPERTY.* All Properties beginning with PROPERTY.
^CELL.*A$ All sector cell names beginning with 'CELL' and ending with the letter A
(sector A).
^CELL0001. All the sectors for 'CELL0001' (A, B, C, …).

^SITE83(89|98)$j SITE8389 and SITE8398.

^SITE_\d+\w$ SITE followed by an underscore, followed by at least one digit, followed
by only one letter. For example this would return SITE_102A,
SITE_01B and SITE_123123123A.
But it would not return SITE0102A, SITE_0123ABC or SITE__01A.
^Helier\d\d\.*A$ All elements beginning with Helier followed by two digits and an A.
.*[A-F]$ Elements with names ending in a,b,c,d,e,f or A,B,C,D,E,F unless you
have selected the Match Case checkbox, in which case it only returns
Using Regular Expressions in the Selection Expert
elements with names ending in A,B,C,D,E,F.
^(SITE|CELL)_[0-9]{4}[a-fA-F]{0,1} SITE or CELL followed by an underscore, followed by exactly 4 digits,
optionally followed by one letter. For example, this matches SITE_3671
and CELL_3671C, but does not match CELL_031A or
Other Regular Expressions Examples
SITE_0001TEST.
This table shows special meta-characters for use in regular expressions:
For example, this picture shows a search that has returned everything:
Item Description

^ Matches the beginning of the line.

. Matches any character (except newline).
$ Matches the end of the line (or before newline at the end).
| Alternation.
() Grouping.

This table shows character classes for use in regular expressions:

Item Description

\w Match a "word" character (alphanumeric plus "_").

\W Match a non-"word" character.
\s Match a whitespace character.
\S Match a non-whitespace character.
\d Match a digit character.
\D Match a non-digit character.
Searching Using a Regular Expression
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This table shows standard quantifiers for use in regular expressions: To view the Map Information pane:

Item Description
On the Map View toolbar, click the small arrow next to the button, then click .
* Match 0 or more times.
(You can also use the toggling option by pressing Ctrl+G on the keyboard.)
+ Match 1 or more times.
The Map Information pane appears, attached beneath the Map View window.
? Match 1 or 0 times.
{n} Match exactly n times. If you have more than one Map View window open, you may prefer to use a detached pane. This
one pane will then display information about whichever Map View window is active.
{n,} Match at least n times.
To detach the pane from a Map View window:
{n,m} Match at least n but not more than m times.
1. On the Map View window, from the View menu, de-select the Pin Map Information option.

Viewing Map Information in Other Windows 2. Drag the detached pane to the required location.

To reattach the pane, select the Pin Map Information option again.
This section describes the other map-related windows where you can get further information about
what you are seeing on the Map View window.
You can decide which items to display in the pane.

Tip: You can also view the settings for a project while you are using the Map View window. To do To specify what you want to be displayed:
this, from the File menu, click View Project Settings. The Project Settings dialog box appears,
detailing information on the Map Data directories, Map Data Extents and so on. 1. On the pane, click the Information Fields Selector button .

2. Add and remove items as required, such as Location, Clutter, Nearest Cell and so on.

Viewing Information about a Specific Pixel Tip: You can change how location and building height are displayed by double-clicking the
item in the Map Information window.
To view information about a particular point on the map, you can show the Map Information pane,
which can be either attached to or detached from an open Map View window. You can also do this for vector attributes. For more information, see Displaying Vector
Attribute Information for a Specific Pixel on page 113.
Here is an example:
3. Click OK.

One of the options in the Information Fields Selector enables you to display the dimensions of the
current Map View and the scale:

For more information on this, see Viewing Scale Information Relating to the Current Map View on
page 112.

Map Information pane displaying pixel-specific information

This pane displays the dimensions of the current view expressed as width and height in kilometres.
As you move the mouse cursor over the map, the pane displays information related to the specific
pixel under the cursor including location, height above sea level, the clutter category, building
height and nearest cell.
Viewing Scale Information Relating to the Current Map View
In the Map Information pane, one of the options in the Information Fields Selector enables you to
display the dimensions of the current Map View and also the scale:

Important: You can also view pixel-specific information for all types of array (such as coverage
arrays and simulation arrays) in the Pixel Analyser window. For more information, see About the
Pixel Analyser on page 150.

Example of Dimensions and Scale in Map Information pane

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To see this:
1. On the Map View window, from the View menu, ensure Show Map Information is selected.
2. On the pane, click the Information Fields Selector button . or Pathway vectors in Vector Attribute 1.
3. Add the item named '2D View Dimensions'.
4. Click OK.
Important: The scale value represents the ratio between the pixel size in ASSET and the screen
pixel size (in other words, it represents 'metres per pixel' based on the screen resolution). This
value can be a useful aid in deciding which resolution to specify against scanmaps in the index file.
For more information on scanmaps, see 'Configuring Map Backdrops' in the ASSET Technical
Reference Guide.
Displaying Vector Attribute Information for a Specific Pixel
To display vector attribute information in the Map View window:
1. On the Map Information pane, click the Information Fields Selector button . select the Display vector name option
2. Add the 'Vector Attributes Display1' item.
3. Click OK.
4. Double-click the blank field:
In the example above, the blank space will represent Vector Attribute 1.
5. In the dialog box that appears, expand the vector which has the attribute(s) you want to
display:
6. Double-click each vector attribute that you want to display.
Each vector attribute will appear in the list on the right-hand side:
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ASSET User Reference Guide
Tips:
o You can include attributes from different vectors in the same Vector Attribute item. In
the example above, it would also be possible to include attributes from the CityCentre
o You can add new attributes to the list, by right-clicking the list and from the menu that
appears, clicking Add.
o To delete an attribute from the list, right-click the required attribute and from the menu
that appears, click Delete.
7. You can optionally set a number of display properties for these attributes:
o If the attributes are used in more than one vector, you can choose which vector number
(the first, the second and so on) to display the map information for
o Define the search radius in pixels
o If you want to highlight the feature containing the attribute whose information you are
displaying, select the Highlight Feature option
o If you want to display the attribute name in the information, select the Display attribute
names option
o If you want to display the name of the vector associated with the attribute information,
8. Click OK.
As you move the mouse cursor over the map, the pane displays the selected attribute
information related to the specific pixel under the cursor.
This picture shows an example, where the Highlight Feature, Display attribute names and
Display vector name options have been selected:
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Viewing Information in the Height Profile Window About the Height Profile Toolbar
This section describes the functions of the buttons in the Height Profile window. Here is a picture
Use the Height Profile window to see a two-dimensional cross-section of the terrain between two
of the toolbar:
points (or Properties) on the map.

Important: The Height Profile window functionality can be used for ASSET Radio and ASSET
Backhaul. If you are using ASSET Backhaul, the Height Profile window provides additional The Height Profile toolbar
functionality related to microwave links. For more information, see 'Using Height Profiles' at the end
of the 'Designing the Physical Network' chapter in the ASSET Backhaul User Reference Guide.
Note: The Height Profile window functionality and choice of buttons available may vary according
to which ASSET products you have installed.
This picture shows an example of a Height Profile window:
This table describes the buttons in this toolbar:

Button Description

Toggle View

Save Profile

Print Title and Logo

Print Preview

Print Profile

Copy Profile

Profile Report Parameters

Select Link

Property to Point

Property to Property

Point to Point

Cancel Profile

Display Fresnel Zones

Toggle Display of Basic Reflections

Toggle Display of Specular Reflections

Example Height Profile Window
Reflection Analysis
In the example:
Antenna Minimisation
 The closest obstruction to the line of sight is 16.4m
 The distance between the sites is 3.75km Tilt Angle

 The bearing is 76.3 degrees Reverse Profile

The set of options available depends on which tools you have installed.
Redraw Profile

Map Data Profile

User Defined Data Profile

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Button Description
Displaying a Path in the Height Profile Window
User Defined Profile Generator
To display a path between a Property and a desired point, two Properties, or two desired points:

1. From the View menu, click Height Profile.

About the Height Profile Message Bar 2. In the Height Profile window, click the appropriate button, for example, Property to point
.
This diagram shows the information on the Height Profile window message bar:
3. In the Map View window, click the Property (or point) then move the cursor to the desired
Tilt angles (cellular Signal Loss (microwave point (or Property) and click again.
antennas) antennas)

Note: If you have chosen either Property to Property or Property to point mode, and
then click a particular point on the map, a list of the nearest Properties is displayed, from
which you can select the appropriate one.

If appropriate, the start and finish heights are set by the antenna heights of the selected
Line of sight Distance Property.
clearance between points Bearing Elevation
(or obstruction) or Properties
Note: If you select to view the profile along a link, the start and finish heights are set by the
heights of the microwave antennas.
The Height Profile message bar
4. If you have selected Property to Property or Property to point mode, you can select
which antenna from the Property is used. To do this, from the list of antennas that appear,
Note: The information available may depend on which tools you have installed. double-click the required antenna.

5. Click the Settings tab.

What Does the Height Profile Window Show? The appearance of this tab changes depending on the ASSET products you have installed.
For more information on using this tab, see Changing the Height Profile Settings on page
The Height Profile window shows: 119.

 Line of sight (LOS) between the two points 6. On the Fresnel tab, ensure the correct clearance criteria are used. For more information on
the Fresnel tab, see Setting the Clearance Criteria for Height Profiles on page 120.
 Clutter
 Clearance, or height of an obstruction After you have created a height profile path:

 Distance between the two points  If you have ASSET Backhaul installed, you can view a report on the path along a link.

 Bearing from due north of the end point from the start point For more information, see the ASSET Backhaul User Reference Guide.

 Antenna tilts of cellular antennas  You can check the clearance at specific points. For more information, see Checking
Clearance on Height Profile Paths on page 121.
 Angle of elevation of the end point from the start point (a positive value means a downward
tilt, a negative value means an upward tilt)  You can print a picture of the path for use in a report, for example. For information on how
to do this, see Printing Height Profiles on page 123.
 Any resultant signal loss
 Any obstructions, shown as vertical red lines

Note: You can get negative heights because the Height Profile window takes into consideration
earth curvature and represents this on a flat line from the start point, as illustrated here:

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Changing the Height Profile Settings Setting the Clearance Criteria for Height Profiles

In the Height Profile window, to change what the height profile displays, click the Settings tab. On the Fresnel tab of the Height Profile window, you can set the correct clearance criteria.

This picture shows an example Height Profile Settings tab: The amount of clearance required depends on the path length, the position of any obstruction along
a path and the frequency of the operation.

Note: If you have ASSET Backhaul installed, you can specify up to 6 clearance criteria with
corresponding Fresnel zone clearance requirements. If you do not have ASSET Backhaul installed,
you can only specify one clearance criterion.

For an example:

Height Profile Settings tab

Note: Any changes that you make to the values in the Height Profile window will not be applied to
the Site Database or Link Database, unless you choose to click Apply.

In the Properties pane of the Settings tab, you can:

 Select the start and finish antenna heights for point to point mode. For Property to point and
Property to Property modes, this corresponds to:
o The heights at the cellular antennas on the sites/nodes of the Property, if you have not
selected a microwave link.
o The heights of the microwave antennas, if you have selected a microwave link.
 Edit the transmitter frequency at the start and end points.
 Where applicable, you can override the antenna inventory height with the antenna
prediction height, at the start and end points. This is only relevant if you have ASSET Radio
installed.
o The antenna inventory height is the height of the antenna according to the antenna
inventory (this value is not used for cellular coverage predictions).
o The antenna prediction height is the height of the antenna that is used for cellular
coverage predictions.
In the Map Data pane of the Settings tab, you can:
 Select which map or user data (if any) you want to include in the height profile calculation.
If you choose Building Vector Heights, click the Select button, and in the dialog box that
appears, ensure that the Building Vectors option is selected, and then click OK.
For each clearance criterion, you can specify the following:
Item Description
K The K factor – The factor by which the Earth's radius is multiplied to reflect the effective
Earth bulge.
F The Fresnel factor – This is the amount of clearance that should be afforded in a particular
location, based on ITU-R recommendations. For example, for k=1.33, a clearance of 1.0
F1 should be obtained, but if k=minimum exceeded for 99.9% for the time, a clearance of
0.3 F1 should be obtained if the obstacle is rounded, or 0 F1 if there is a single sharp
isolated obstacle.
# The number of the Fresnel zone – F1 is the 1st Fresnel zone, F2 is the 2nd Fresnel zone
and so on.
From and The two antennas that connect the link. The height of the antennas will be considered in
To antennas the Fresnel zone calculations.
Colour The display colour that you will use to visually identify the Fresnel zone.
To display a clearance criterion that you have defined, select its checkbox. You can display multiple
pairs on the same profile.

Note: If you select the Building Vector Heights checkbox, rather than display buildings
according to the pre-defined resolution, the Height Profile displays them based upon the
distance on which the profile line intersects the segments of the buildings, interpolating the
DTM height used to draw the buildings where the building falls between two profile points.

 Select the resolution to be used in the height profile calculation.

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Changing the Clutter Settings in the Height Profile Window
To change which clutter settings are used for the height profile, click the Clutter tab. This picture
shows an example clutter tab:
On this tab, you can:
 Edit the clutter height and categories shown and choose a model to select which clutter
heights to use.
 View the colours and values assigned to the data types displayed in the open Height
Profile window.
Note: You cannot edit these colours here. To change them, double-click the clutter item in
the list of data types in the Map Information and Control dialog box.
 Choose to display clutter above the line of the height profile, below it, or both above and
below.
Checking Clearance on Height Profile Paths
After you have created a height profile path, you can look at specific points on it, and instantly see
the clearance between the line of sight (and/or the Fresnel zone) and any obstacles below.
To do this:
1. In the Height Profile window, click the Location Finder tab.
2. Select the Show Marker checkbox.
A vertical line appears on the height profile. The Marker Position pane shows the
geographical co-ordinates (in the format of your choice – LL, DLL or Grid).
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This picture shows an example:
o In the Line of Sight and Fresnel Zone panes, you can view clearance information
related to that specific point along the Height Profile path – clearance to the ground,
to clutter, to building vectors and to building rasters. The clearance values are based
on the specified K factor and/or the Fresnel Zone percentage.
o In the Distance from pane, you can see the distance that the marker line is from either
end of the path.
o In the Tilt Angle From and Effective Tilt from panes, you can view these angles from
either end of the path.
3. You can move the marker line along the height profile path in either direction, by:
o Clicking on the marker line and dragging it from left to right as required
– or –
o Clicking the Fine Tune left and right arrow buttons, for a more accurate location of a
point on a pixel by pixel basis
Tip: You can view the location of the marker on the Map View window, marked as a cross along
the path.
What Height is Used When Using Repeaters?
If you choose Property to Property and you are using a repeater, then ASSET assumes that you
are looking for how that repeater might receive a signal for repeating, so the Rx height is used.
If the profile mode is Property to point and are using a repeater, then ASSET assumes that you
are looking at how the repeated/transmitted signal is received by a mobile, so the Tx height is used.
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6. Click Print.
Printing Height Profiles
7. Check the details are correct, and click OK.
You can print or copy the contents of the Height Profile window, using the Print toolbar buttons:
The height profile is printed.

Print Toolbar buttons About the Master View

Button Description The Master View window is a small-scale map, which indicates with a rectangle the position of any
currently opened map view.
Print Title and Logo
To open the Master View window:
Print Preview From the View menu, click Master View.

Print Profile

Copy Profile

To do this:

1. Click the Print Title and Logo button and specify any title, copyright, comments, headers
and footers that you require.

2. You can choose to:

o Print a logo with the height profile, either the default logo or your own. As this is a
raster format, you may need to experiment with various image sizes to obtain the best
image on the hard copy printout. Any number of colours can be used (monochrome to
24-bit colour).
o Print the time and date with the height profile.
To choose what data is displayed on the Master View:
1. On the Master View, right-click and from the menu that appears, click Properties.
2. In the Data Types dialog box, select the data you require:

o Print the x and y axis labels for the height profile.

This picture shows an example dialog box:

Tip: You can edit the display properties of a data type by double-clicking it.

3. Click OK & Redraw.

Tip: You can scroll your Map View using the Master View window. To do this, drag the rectangle to
3. Click OK. the required position.

4. On the Height Profile window, from the File menu, click Page Setup and specify details
such as page orientation, size, source and margins; change the printer, printer properties
and number of copies. These settings default to those assigned as default by the Windows
printer driver.

Important: You should set the number of pages to 1, unless your height profile contains a
Link Profile/Budget report.

5. Click the Print Preview button to verify your plots.

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Printing from the Map View
In ASSET, you can print the whole contents of a Map View window, or specific areas of it. You can
also choose to print on paper, or to a file for archiving, including in reports and so on.
6. Click OK.
7. From the File menu, click the Print Preview button to see what the printout will look like
and to choose where on the page you want the key, the map and the scale. For example:

Tip: In the Map View, you can also export any of your map layers for use with MapInfo, Google
Earth and ESRI ArcGIS. See Exporting Map Layers using GIS Export on page 441.

Choosing the Legend Information for the Printouts

You can use the Legend tab of the Layer Control Pane to determine which items are shown in
any printouts you make of the Map View.

To do this:

1. In the Map View, in the Layer Control Pane, click the Legend tab.

2. Clear the Show as Print Preview checkbox at the bottom. The items are then shown in a
tree view.

3. Select the checkboxes next to the items in the list that you want to display in the printed
legend.

4. Select the Show as Print Preview checkbox to preview how the items will display on a
printout.

5. To view the layout of your printout, in the Map View, from the File menu, click Print
Preview.

6. When ready, click the Print button.

8. When you are satisfied, either:

Customising the Page Layout for Printing o Print the whole map as shown in the Map View window
o Print a defined area of the map
To set up how the contents of the Map View window will print:
o Print the map or area of map to file
1. On the Map View window, from the File menu, point to Print Setup and click Printer and
Page Layout.
Printing the Whole Map View
The Page Setup dialog box appears; the settings default to those assigned by the
Windows printer driver. To print the whole contents as shown in the Map View window:
2. Specify the page size, source and orientation and change the printer as required then click 1. Set up the page layout as required.
OK.
2. From the File menu, click Print.
Tip: Do not change the margins here as these are not used by ASSET.

3. From the File menu, point to Print Setup and click Legend and Title and specify any title, Printing a Specific Area of the Map View
copyright and comments that you require. The default title is Untitled or the last used title of
the current session. To print a specific area of map rather than the whole contents of the Map View window:

4. Also choose whether to print the default logo or a different one. As this is a raster format, 1. Set up the page layout as required.
you may need to experiment with various image sizes to obtain the best image on the hard
copy printout. Any number of colours can be used (monochrome to 24-bit colour). 2. On the Map View window, from the File menu, click Print Area.

5. Select the Print to Scale checkbox if you want to scale your mapping data appropriately.
For example, if a 1:100000 scale is used on the output, every centimetre on the printout will
represent 1 kilometre. The midpoints of the current view are used as the centre of this
printout.
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3. Using the cursor, click and drag to select an area of map that you want to print.
The Print Preview dialog box appears so you can check the map before printing. Note Using Third Party 3D Visualisation Tools
that:
o The scale used is that found in the current view If the visualisation tools Smart City Explorer and SpaceEyes have been installed, links to them
will be available under Add-Ins from the File menu.
o The region displayed may vary so that the scale may be maintained, based on paper
size, layout and so on
o If you select the Print to Scale option in the Print Legend, only the centre point of the
area selected is used and also depending on paper size and the layout of the print, the
region will most likely be resized to maintain scale

Printing a Map View to File

As well as printing maps or partial maps on paper, you can print them to file. You can choose to
print maps as PDF, TIFF, JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF, PCX or DCX files using a virtual printer driver
that is installed with ASSET. To do this:

1. Customize the page layout as required.

2. From the File menu, click Print.

3. In the Printer box, select the Universal Document Converter as shown here:

4. Click the Properties button and in the profile box, select the item you require, for example,
Document to PDF, to produce a PDF.

5. On the Image Settings tab, in the Color Depth box, select True Color (24 bit) so that
dithering does not occur and you can see transparency in your files.

6. On the Output tab, it is recommended that you select Prompt for Filename especially if
you are writing to a network folder.

7. For further help on using this printer driver, press F1 in the Properties dialog box.

8. When you are satisfied with your settings, click OK to print the plot.

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