SS-RSRP stands for Synchronization Signal Reference Signal Received Power.
Definition:
This metric measures the average power received from the resource elements (RES) that carry the Synchronization Signal (SS) block in 5G NR. It is expressed in dBm (decibels relative to one milliwatt).
Measurement:
Resource Elements (RES): The SS-RSRP is calculated by averaging the power received from the RES that are used for the SS block.
Linear Units: The power contributions are first averaged in linear units (Watts) and then converted to dBm.
Range:
| IE Node. | IE Name. | Typical Range: |
| NR – Serving & Neighboring Cells | SS Avg RSRP | -40 dBm (good) to -140 dBm (bad) |
Minimum Value: -156 dBm
Maximum Value: -31 dBm
Significance:
Cell Selection and Re-selection: SS-RSRP is used to determine the best cell for initial connection and for re-selection to a better cell.
Handover Decisions: It helps in deciding when to hand over a user equipment (UE) from one cell to another to maintain a stable connection.
Signal Quality: A higher SS-RSRP value indicates a stronger and more reliable signal, which is crucial for high-speed data and reliable connections.
Filtering:
Layer 1 (L 1) Filtering: The SS-RSRP values are filtered at the physical layer to reduce the impact of noise and provide a more accurate measurement.
Performance Indicators:
Excellent: -80 to -65 dBm (Strong signal, ideal for high-speed data and reliable connections).
Good: -85 to -80 dBm (Reliable signal, suitable for most applications)
Fair: -90 to -85 dBm (Moderate signal, may experience some degradation in performance)
Poor: -100 to -90 dBm (Weak signal, may have issues with data throughput and reliability)
Bad: -140 to -100 dBm (Very weak signal, likely to have significant issues)
Comparison with LTE:
In LTE similar measurements are made for RSRP, RSRQ, and SNR associated with the Cell-Specific Reference Signal (CRS). The SS-RSRP in 5G NR is analogous to the RSRP in LTE but is specific to the SS block in 5G.
How to Improve SS-RSRP?
Signal Boosters: Using signal boosters can help increase the RSRP by amplifying the cell signal.
Optimal Placement: Ensuring that the UE is placed in areas with better signal coverage can improve SS-RSRP.
Network Optimization: Network operators can optimize the base station configurations to enhance signal strength and coverage. By understanding and monitoring SS Avg RSRP, network operators and engineers can ensure optimal performance and user experience in 5G NR networks.