Mentum Geodata: Specialized

products tailored to the

requirements of RF and

transmission engineers

With the explosion of location-based services and GPS-enabled wireless devices, mapping data vendors have new market segments to target. However, the geodata requirements for the engineering departments of wireless service providers are still a special niche of the digital mapping industry that is addressed by a select number of vendors. Through its expertise in radio propagation along with roots in this specialty market that date over 15 years to MSI, Mentum is now uniquely positioned to provide quality geodata products that are optimized to work with a customer’s planning solution, RF processes and budget.

Through its development of Mentum Planet® and Mentum Ellipse® as well as specialized propagation models that require accurate geodata as a critical input, Mentum understands the need for high resolution building outlines and how to accurately classify clutter.

Mentum Geodata is provided in standard Mentum Planet and Mentum Ellipse formats but the geodata group can also support the formats of other planning tool vendors. Mentum Planet geodata is based on native MapInfo® formats and is easily converted to other formats as well as visualized and edited from within MapInfo Professional®. Most Mentum Geodata is licensed on a corporate or company-wide basis so the majority of data purchased for the RF planning team can also be leveraged for other GIS applications, as well as for web-based information tools used for marketing purposes. Mentum Geodata is guaranteed to work effectively with Mentum applications. It will also support the best possible RF propagation accuracy.

The Mentum Method

The Mentum Geodata Group is committed to producing the most accurate, up-to-date and specialized clutter data for wireless telecom applications. Mentum Geodata is categorized using an automated multispectral approach developed by Mentum over 10 years of clutter data production. This approach, coupled with extensive analyst control and post-classification editing, ensures the highest quality and accuracy of our data products. Aerial and satellite imagery, maps and other supplementary data are used to edit, revise and update the clutter classifications. Mentum’s multispectral classification method has set an industry standard for wireless geodata.

Our skilled account directors can offer advice and guidance on the best products for customers’ proposed applications and budgets. If service providers have in-house GIS (geographic information system) groups or representatives, our in-house GIS experts can consult on their most technical considerations.

What Is Geodata? Geodata is geographical information provided in databases that has been created by processing spatial data from multiple sources including satellite or radar imagery, aerial photographs and maps. For wireless applications, geodata is typically divided into the following layers:

Digital Terrain Models (DTM) - Terrain • data represents land elevation or relief information, critical in determining potential obstructions to radio signals. Also known as “bald-earth” raster layers Clutter represents the type of land • use and land cover across a planning area and provides information on both the RF characteristics and likely traffic usage Vectors are geographic data • represented by lines, polygons or points and include roads, rivers, political boundaries and demographic data 3D building polygons are detailed • models of the structures of a city for very high accuracy line-of-sight analysis and detailed propagation models (e.g., urban models)

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Key Questions To Geodata Suppliers

What is the vintage of the data being • provided? What sources are being used?• How many sources are being used?•

materials themselves and an average digitizing error of +/- 1mm should be taken into account.

Terrain – Building Geodata Databases From The Ground UpA digital terrain model is a three-dimensional digital model of the earth’s surface, where each pixel represents a certain geographic area (1 to 100 meters). As even the best terrain source data can contain inconsistencies and distortions, Mentum uses duplicate sources — cartographic maps verified by satellite or radar imagery — to verify the accuracy and correct anomalies in its DTMs. By selectively filtering the source data, we maintain detail and a true representation of elevation.

Accuracy, Resolution And ScaleDigital mapping data is derived from topographic paper maps, satellite or aerial imagery, or direct detection methods such as radar or LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). Capturing mapping data digitally is: a time-consuming process and usually involves the required information being manually digitized from maps or photographs, or in the case of satellite imagery, land cover information being classified in a semi-automated process. There is a common misunderstanding of the true nature of — and the differences between — geodata accuracy, resolution and scale. This misunderstanding is often exploited by geodata suppliers in their quotations and bids to make their offers seem better than they actually are! The most common of these misrepresentations is to provide data at a resolution not supported by the source materials used to produce the data.

The resolution of a data set is merely the pixel size at which the raster elements of the database are to be provided and it is not a reflection of the accuracy of the database. Geodata resolution should be related to the scale of the source materials that were utilized in the generation of these raster data layers, while the accuracy of the data set is directly related to the scale of the source materials. Digitally captured data can be no more accurate than the source

( There is a common misunderstanding of the true nature of — and the

differences between — geodata accuracy, resolution and scale )

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Resolution Versus Scale

Geographic databases can be represented at any resolution and many suppliers misrepresent the appropriate resolution and true accuracy of their databases. In so doing, they are able to cover the same area with far fewer maps, thus reducing the cost base of their product.

Nominal Resolution From Different Map Scales

1:1,000,000

1,000m

1:500,000

250m

1:250,000

100m

1:100,000

50m

1:50,000

20-25m

1:25,000

10mAchievableResolution

Refresh Rate

A key question for many customers is how often they should update geodata, particularly clutter and building databases. The answer varies by region, development and budget. However, recent vintage clutter (created within the last two years) and building models are the critical foundation for simulation-based RF and transmission planning.

Source Imagery Dictates Accuracy, Not Resolution

All 20m clutter is not the same. The clutter on the left is sourced from 15m imagery; with the other based on 30m imagery. The clutter on the right is less costly to produce given it is based on less granular source imagery. Operators must determine if cost savings for geodata equates to better value as clutter is a critical input for RF solutions like Mentum Planet.

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Mentum Geodata starts with the best possible terrain sources:

Existing digital terrain models, such • as U.S. Geological Survey National Elevation Data set

Large-scale topographic maps, • including military and private-sector sources

Airborne and spaceborne sensors • including IFSAR, LIDAR and stereo photogrametry

Clutter – Defining Your MarketsUnlike DTMs, which stay fairly consistent over time, clutter classes can change dramatically due to urban sprawl, densification and other population growth patterns. Accurate clutter is a critical input for RF engineers using simulation tools for planning and optimization purposes. Mentum offers standard clutter products ranging from 11 to 17 classes, but can also provide up to 25 classes. Of course, more clutter classes is not necessarily better — it can actually be detrimental to propagation modeling accuracy — but it will allow for further granularity in the RF engineering process.

Classification of similar areas into the same categories is of paramount importance so that assumptions can be applied to all comparable regions represented by the same clutter class. To verify the accuracy of its clutter classes, Mentum Geodata uses image classification techniques using high-resolution aerial or satellite data to verify that the correct grouping was achieved through automated multi-spectral correlation processes.

Refreshing clutter every couple of years is a best practice where any significant

changes to land use has occurred. This is one area where a customer must trust that a geodata supplier will continue to supply data that is classified with the same techniques. Ideally the vendor will be able to deliver the same results for a similar environment over several years.

Vectors – The Traffic Is On The Roads And RailsGeographic data is often represented by lines (e.g., vectors), polygons or points and include roads, railways, rivers, political boundaries and even demographic data. In larger area data sets, these lines or contours represent key landmarks that can be used for bid or CAPEX planning or for a national or regional perspective.

In higher resolution urban data sets, roads and rivers need to be geo-referenced accurately with the other elements of the database. For example, given that drive tests are the predominant method for collecting CW (continuous wave) data, roads must correspond to the surrounding buildings or the validity of the simulation can be compromised.

3D Building Polygons For The Most RF Challenging EnvironmentsWith the availability of sub-meter resolution satellite imagery, the ability to derive 1-5 meter resolution 3D data sets for densely populated urban areas makes these data sets popular for wireless planning applications. Particularly in environments where urban or “ray tracing” models are used, highly accurate building outlines with a defined height are a required input. The high level of accuracy that can be provided in the building models provides the

Projection

Mentum can deliver its geodata databases in all standard projections, including:

UTM and Gauss Kruger• • Albers Equal-Area Conic • Lambert Conformal Conic • Plate Carrée (Lat/Long Geographic)

Up-to-date clutter is crucial for modeling new developments. With growth highlighted in red, this map of the northeast Denver area shows explosive development.

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foundation for accurate simulations and related analyses in the most complex and challenging RF planning environment: dense urban areas.

Of course, just because the satellite/aerial imagery is available does not mean 3D building models are necessary. Mentum’s Geodata Group and account directors will advise on where the investment is warranted — and where medium resolution terrain and clutter will meet requirements and budget constraints.

LandscapesThese databases are the ideal solution for large-area planning. They cover entire countries or large regions and are typically supplied at a 30-100 meter pixel resolution for utilization in large-area

network planning, rural planning or bid-preparation work. For most areas, Mentum uses an enhanced and gap-filled version of the NASA/USGS Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) data to build Landscapes terrain layers. The clutter and vector data layers are usually derived from topographic paper maps at scales of 1:100,000, 1:200,000 or 1:250,000 scale, depending on the availability of mapping over the area of interest (AOI). In many cases, clutter may also be derived from multispectral imagery such as archived LANDSAT data.

CityscapesDesigned to meet the detailed network planning requirements in major urban areas, these databases range in resolutions from 20-30 meters and include high-resolution satellite derived

( just because the satellite/aerial imagery is available does not mean

3D building models are necessary. Mentum’s Geodata Group and account

directors will advise on where the investment is warranted )

Mentum Geodata Product Portfolio

Product

Landscapes

Cityscapes

Skylines

DescriptionTypical Dataset

Size

Recommended Resolution

Wide area dataset (whole state, whole country)

Dataset focused on higher-traffic markets, greater metropolitan area, etc.

3D dataset focused on urban centers and very high density developments

General Use

Low-cost dataset for bid prep, wide area/rural planning

Standard geodata product for most urban and suburban planning

High-end product for use in specialized models for microcell planning and high accuracy applications

Typical Resolution

30-100m

20-30m

1-5m

50m

30m

5m

500,000 -

2,000 - 1,000,000km2

50 - 2,000km2

Typical Layers

Terrain, Clutter

Terrain, Clutter, Vector

Terrain, Building Vectors

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clutter and high-resolution DTMs. Vectors and other custom data layers can also be incorporated into a Cityscapes database; as well as ortho-imagery to allow engineers to visually verify their planning environment.

The heights and vector data layers are usually derived from topographic paper maps at 1:50,000 scale, or better, while the clutter layer is generated from the latest available satellite imagery. Where topographic maps are old or of poor quality, terrain or vectors may be derived from other sources such as higher-resolution imagery and radar topography data. These data sets offer a good trade-off in accuracy versus cost of 3D building polygons and can be provided as a surrounding ring that complements a Skylines purchase in an urban core.

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Price Versus Value

While all aspects of a network operator’s budget are under close scrutiny, if simulation-based planning is the cornerstone of a new technology rollout, is buying “cheap geodata”, older vintage clutter or building models the best place to save money? Mentum offers best-in-class geodata at reasonable rates because the data is tailored to RF planning tool requirements.

deviations (from measurement data) below 7dB, with RMS errors also under 7dB and correlations (with tuning) of higher than 0.8. The Universal Model, used in conjunction with high resolution Skylines geodata, sets the bar for propagation accuracy in any simulation tool.

The Universal Model uses a unique geodata layer called “streetgraphs” in urban areas that can be generated directly out of Mentum Planet. This layer can be provided as part of a Skylines geodata purchase when the customer indicates they will be using the Universal Model. The model can also be used with lower resolution Cityscapes and Landscapes in less built-up areas.

Geodata Subscription ProgramUSA – Medium Resolution Subscription Mentum offers a subscription service for clutter as part of its Cityscapes products. This service provides updated clutter data for the top 15% of counties in the United States undergoing the most growth — as defined by building permits being commissioned per county. It is a fast and cost-effective way to help guide the selection and prioritization of areas requiring geodata clutter updates. Currently only available in the United States, Mentum is considering options to extend this program into other regions of the world.

International - Skylines Subscription Customers purchasing new Skylines 3D data sets are able to purchase future updates for the same cities without having to replace their entire data set. A customer may purchase a one-time update at a substantially reduced price or purchase an update plan. With this plan, update subscribers will automatically

SkylinesThese 3D building model databases are ideal for dense urban planning applications as well as microwave and other point-to-multipoint technologies in urban areas. Skylines databases are provided at 5-meter and lower resolutions, with vector accuracy of 1-2 meters on the horizontal plane and 1-3 meters on the vertical plane. These detailed databases include digital surface models (DSMs, “canopy” raster layers, with building and obstructions heights included) and DTMs. Depending on the customer requirements, certain layers can be removed from a standard purchase. For instance, microwave engineers may opt for DTM and DSM only. Skylines data is derived from satellite and aerial imagery and customized as required to meet the client’s application and data layer requirements.

Mentum Planet Universal ModelMentum Planet includes a unique propagation model that is faster and more accurate than traditional urban models. A key benefit of the Universal Model is that engineers no longer need to decide whether a micro-, mini- or macro-model is the most appropriate for the area being considered. The Universal Model automatically adapts to all model types — for micro, mini and macro cells, to all environments (dense urban, urban, suburban, mountainous, maritime, open, etc.) and to all wireless technologies in a frequency range that spans from 400MHz to 5GHz.

The Universal Model will typically rely on Skylines data to achieve accurate results in urban environments. In fact, with Skylines data and CW data for model tuning it is possible to achieve standard

Sophisticated models like the Universal Model for Mentum Planet use detailed Skylines products as a critical input to produce accurate simulations.

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receive any updates produced by Mentum Geodata. A complete update is provided at the end of the subscription term if no updates have been provided during the term, ensuring no portion of the subscription data will ever be greater than three years old.

A Substantial InventoryMentum features an extensive on-the-shelf archive of geodata products tailored for the wireless market. The Mentum inventory includes hundreds of Cityscapes databases with 2007 vintage data or better, with overall geodata products covering 90% of the world’s land masses. Of course, having the product ready for use is the ideal scenario. Where recent vintage clutter or building models are not available, Mentum will create the data based on the most recent satellite and aerial imagery. Where required, Mentum

commissions the imagery to be taken and works with customers to provide the data in increments that will meet their requirements.

Proven Track RecordThe Mentum Geodata Group has over 15 years of experience. While Mentum’s Geodata Group prepares and delivers the products needed within the wireless industry, frontline account directors, technical consultants and customer care representatives are also well versed in this field. This is important, because sometimes troubleshooting prediction accuracy is not just about the propagation model and software — but the accuracy of the geodata being used.

Mentum’s ability to support geodata internally is unique amongst leading RF planning tool vendors. Offering a

( The Mentum inventory includes hundreds of Cityscapes databases

with 2007 vintage data or better, with overall geodata products

covering 90% of the world’s land masses )

single point of contact for the customer, Mentum can minimize costs while offering a wide variety of services. Given the precise geodata requirements of the wireless service provider, this means providing data and advice on its use that gets customers the results they need to plan, operate and optimize their networks. With Mentum, customers have access to GIS, RF and product experts to ensure Mentum Geodata meets their requirements, every time.

Indoor Propagation

UndershootingOvershooting

Shadowing

Channeling ProposedSite

RF Considerations In The Urban Environment

Simulation-based planning using high-resolution data lets engineers consider RF characteristics before making changes to the on-air network.

www.mentum.comsales@mentum.com © 2009 Mentum S.A. Mentum, Mentum Planet and Mentum Ellipse are registered trademarks owned by Mentum S.A. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Skylines LandscapesCityscapes