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4G LTE Throughput Calculator and Formula Explained

lte throughput 4g calculator network

In the fast-evolving world of mobile networks, understanding 4G LTE throughput is crucial for optimizing data transmission and ensuring efficient network performance.

This LTE throughput calculator and formula is based on the 3GPP TS 36.213 document.

The LTE speed calculation requires modulation type, TBS index, and TBS size. Let’s understand peak data rate or LTE speed calculation with the following LTE system configuration:

  • 20MHz channel
  • 4x4 MIMO configuration

Theoretically:

Peak Data Rate = No. of REs per subframe x no. of bits per modulation symbol

= 16800 x 6 = 100800 bits/ 1 ms

Data Rate = 100.8Mbps

For 4x4 MIMO data rate = 403Mbps

About 25% of overhead is used here for RS (reference signal), synchronization signals, PDCCH, PBCH & for some coding. This leads to an effective data rate of about 403Mbps X 0.75 = 302Mbps.

Each Resource Element (RE) will carry a modulation symbol. Another way for LTE throughput calculation is to use Table number 7.1.7.1-1 which gives the Transport Block Size (TBS). TBS indicates the number of bits that can be transmitted in one subframe per Transmit Time Interval.

From the table with RBs of 100 and TBS index of 26, the Transport Block Size is 75376.

For a MIMO configuration of 4x4, we will get a data rate (peak) of about 75376 x 4 per 1ms. This leads to an effective peak data rate of 301.5 Mbps.

LTE Throughput Calculator

The following calculator on LTE throughput uses throughput calculation based on MCS, Number of PRBs (Physical Resource Blocks), and the number of MIMO antennas.

4G Throughput Calculation Example

  • Input: MCS = 10, PRBs = 20, Number of MIMO Antennas = 2
  • Output: LTE throughput = 6.22 Mbps

LTE throughput formula

Image alt: LTE throughput formula

The formula for LTE throughput calculation is mentioned in the equation above.

LTE Throughput References

  • Table number 7.1.7.1-1: Modulation and TBS index for PDSCH, REFER: 3GPP TS 36.213
  • Table number 7.1.7.2.1-1: Transport block size, REFER: 3GPP TS 36.213

Conclusion

By mastering the LTE throughput formula and using the provided 4G throughput calculator, you can make informed decisions about network performance and capacity. This knowledge is essential for optimizing data flow in LTE 4G networks, ensuring both speed and efficiency.