> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.gxc.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.gxc.io/docs/application-notes/4g-and-5g-onyx-survey-solution.md).
# 4G & 5G Onyx Survey Solution
## Introduction
The Onyx Survey is a comprehensive RF coverage assessment solution that combines the GXC Survey mobile app for field data collection with the Onyx Portal Survey tool for data analysis and visualization.
Field engineers use the mobile app to capture real-time RF measurements and GPS coordinates during walk-through or drive-test surveys.
Network engineers use the Onyx Portal to analyze survey data through interactive maps, time-series charts, and signal quality metrics. The tool supports comprehensive network assessment for private 4G and 5G cellular networks, including coverage validation, post-deployment verification, troubleshooting, and optimization.
## GXC Survey Mobile App
The GXC Survey mobile app is a companion tool designed to collect real-time RF measurements in the field as the surveying mobile device moves through the coverage area. Collecting measurement data directly from mobile devices provides several advantages, including:
* Captures live RF measurements as you move through the survey area
* Automatically records location coordinates with each measurement
* Allows for both structured drive tests and ad-hoc walking surveys
* Can upload survey logs to cloud storage for immediate access
* Generates log files compatible with the Onyx Portal Survey tool for immediate visualization and analysis
The survey logs generated by the GXC Survey mobile app can be uploaded to the Onyx Portal for visualization and analysis.
* Cloud-Based Access – If cloud synchronization was active during the survey, logs are automatically available in the Survey tool's cloud file selection.
* Local File Upload – Survey logs locally saved on the mobile device can be transferred to a computer and uploaded to the Onyx Portal.
{% hint style="info" %}
**NOTE:** The GXC Survey mobile app is compatible only with GXC-approved mobile devices that meet specific hardware and software requirements for accurate RF data collection. For more information, contact GXC Technical Support.
{% endhint %}
### Authentication and Venue Association
The Survey app supports streamlined authentication and venue association via automatic network detection or QR code scanning, enabling automatic upload of survey logs to Onyx Portal. The app automatically selects the appropriate connection method based on your network environment:
* Automatic Connection – When connected to a GXC network, the app automatically authenticates and links to your Onyx Portal account.
* QR Code Authentication – When not on a GXC network, scan the QR code generated in the Onyx Portal to:
* Log in to your Onyx Portal account
* Associate the app with the venue
* Enable automatic upload of survey log files to Onyx Portal
Survey logs are generated using the GXC Survey mobile app during field surveys. The following procedure describes how to use the mobile app to collect RF measurement data and create survey logs for analysis.
The GXC Survey mobile app comes pre-installed on GXC mobile devices. For additional information, please contact GXC Technical Support.
## Onyx Portal Survey Tool
The Onyx Portal Survey tool provides visualization and analysis capabilities for RF survey data. After survey logs are generated using the GXC Survey mobile app and uploaded to the system, the Survey tool enables you to view interactive maps, analyze signal metrics, and extract actionable insights for network optimization.
### Survey Log Sources
The Survey tool supports two methods for accessing survey logs—cloud-based storage and local file upload. When generating a survey report, you must select the appropriate log source based on where your survey data is stored.
#### Cloud Survey Logs
Cloud survey logs are stored in centralized, cloud-based storage systems and can be accessed remotely by authorized users. This storage option is well suited for organizations that require centralized data management, collaboration across teams, and the ability to perform survey analysis from remote locations.
Access to cloud survey logs requires a valid access token to ensure secure authentication. Once authenticated, users can view and manage survey data collected across multiple sites, enabling consistent and unified data handling.
Cloud survey logs are automatically synchronized with survey collection devices, ensuring that the latest data is always available without manual file transfers.
Cloud survey log files typically follow this naming pattern:
`__radio_log__.json`
Where:
* SiteID – Unique identifier for the survey location
* SessionID – Survey session identifier
* YYYYMMDD – Date of survey (Year-Month-Day)
* HHMMSS – Time of survey (Hour-Minute-Second)
#### Local Survey Logs
Survey logs saved on the surveying mobile device can be transferred to a computer and uploaded via Onyx Portal. These local survey logs can be uploaded and analyzed without requiring cloud storage or access tokens, making them suitable for offline environments or isolated deployments.
Local survey log files typically follow this naming pattern, but can be renamed if required:
`radio_log__.json`
Where:
* YYYYMMDD – Date of survey (Year-Month-Day)
* HHMMSS – Time of survey (Hour-Minute-Second)
The maximum supported file size depends on the system configuration; please consult your system administrator for the existing limits.
### Access Tokens
Access tokens are security credentials required to retrieve survey logs from cloud storage. These tokens provide secure, time-limited access to your survey data, ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive network performance information.
Access tokens serve the following purposes:
* Authentication – Verify user identity when requesting access to survey data
* Authorization – Grant specific permissions to designated survey resources
* Time-limited access – Tokens expire after a defined validity period, reducing long-term credential risks
* Audit trail – Token usage is tracked for security monitoring and compliance
Best practices for token management:
* Set token validity periods based on actual access needs — avoid unnecessarily long expiry windows
* Store tokens securely and never share them publicly
* Generate new tokens only when existing ones expire
* Revoke any unused or compromised tokens immediately
### Map View
The map view provides an interactive geographic visualization of survey data, allowing you to see exactly where measurements were taken and how signal quality varies across the coverage area. This spatial representation helps identify coverage gaps, interference sources, and optimal base station placement.
The map view displays:
* Survey Drive Route – The path taken during the RF survey, represented by connected data points.
* Color-Coded Markers – Each marker represents a measurement point, color-coded by signal strength.
* Geographic Context – Streets, buildings, and terrain features from Google Maps
* Neighbor Cell Data – Accessible by clicking any measurement point, showing all cells detected at that location
* Access Point Markers – Registered APs are displayed on the map based on GPS coordinates. AP markers help correlate survey signal measurements with the physical locations of deployed or planned APs. AP markers can also be added manually for units not yet provisioned in the network.
* KMZ Coverage Overlay – When a KMZ file has been uploaded, the predicted coverage basemap is displayed on the map alongside the live survey data, enabling direct visual comparison of predicted versus actual coverage.
#### Map Controls
The map interface provides the following controls for navigation, customization, and analysis:
* Map/Satellite Toggle – Switch between map view and satellite imagery
* Zoom Controls – Use + and - buttons or mouse wheel to zoom in/out.
* Pan – Click and drag to move the map.
* Fullscreen Map View – Expand the map to view it full screen.
* Expandable Map View – Toggle to show/hide signal graphs below the map, expanding the map to fill available screen space.
* Signal Metric Selector – Choose between RSRP, SINR, RSRQ, RSSI, or Cell (PCI) to visualize different coverage metrics on the map.
* Signal Quality Legends
* Point Measurement Metrics
* Survey Playback – Trace the surveyor's route from start to end point to identify coverage gaps and temporal aspects of measurements.
* Legends – Click to view comprehensive signal quality information and record type definitions.
* Switch Survey – Load a different survey without returning to the venues list for easy comparison.
#### Signal Metric Selector with Legends
The Survey tool provides a metric selector dropdown and corresponding signal quality legends for flexible coverage analysis.
Available metrics:
* RSRP – Reference Signal Received Power (primary indicator of signal strength and coverage quality)
* SINR – Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (best predictor of data throughput and user experience)
* RSRQ – Reference Signal Received Quality (signal quality relative to adjacent cell interference)
* RSSI – Received Signal Strength Indicator (total received power — signal, interference, and noise combined)
* Cell (PCI) – Physical Cell ID (PCI) visualization with unique color coding per cell (use to verify cell boundaries and handover zones). The same PCI will always appear in the same color across the map.
Legends provide comprehensive reference tables with signal quality thresholds for the selected metric, including color-coded signal quality ranges (Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor, Very Poor), thresholds for each quality level, service quality descriptions, and technology-specific ranges (separate criteria for 4G and 5G, where applicable).
The following screenshot shows the Metric Selector dropdown and the Show Legends button.
The following screenshot displays the Legends dialog box for RSRP metrics.
For detailed usage instructions and analysis workflows, see [Analyze Survey Reports](#generate-survey-reports).
#### Radio Log Record Types
Survey logs contain three types of records, each serving a specific purpose in capturing and organizing RF measurement data.
* Summary – ● (Disc) A Summary record is generated when the device moves a set distance (every 10 meters). It contains aggregated statistics from the Detail records collected in that area, plus a snapshot of all neighbor cells visible at that moment. Use Summary records to identify broad coverage patterns and trends across geographic areas.
* Detail – ◆ (Diamond) A Detail record captures the primary serving cell's signal metrics at a fixed interval (every 1 second). Provides high-resolution temporal data for precise signal analysis, including handover events and rapid signal changes. Use Detail records when fine-grained analysis of a specific location or time period is required.
* Notes –  (Star) Generated when a user manually saves a note at their current location during the survey. Use notes to flag specific locations of interest — obstacles, interference sources, or anomalies observed in the field.
#### Signal Quality Legends
Signal quality legends provide standardized interpretations of RF measurements for both 4G and 5G networks. These classifications help network engineers quickly assess coverage quality and identify areas requiring optimization.
**4G Signal Quality Legend**
For 4G networks, signal strength is measured using RSRP with the following quality classifications.
| ≥ -80 | Very strong | Ideal for high throughput |
|
Good
| -81 to -90 | Good | Stable connection |
|
Fair
| -91 to -100 | Moderate | Some drops, lower speeds |
|
Poor
| -101 to -110 | Weak | Marginal service |
|
Very Poor
| < -110 | Very weak | Likely unusable |
4G SINR Signal Legend
Color & Strength
SINR (dB)
Quality
Interpretation
Excellent
≥ 20 dB
Excellent
Very high throughput
Good
13 to 19 dB
Good
High data rates
Fair
0 to 12 dB
Fair
Usable but limited
Poor
-3 to -1 dB
Poor
Edge of usability
Very Poor
< -3 dB
Very Poor
No reliable service
4G RSRQ Signal Legend
Color & Strength
RSRQ (dB)
Quality
Interpretation
Excellent
≥ -9 dB
Excellent
Very clean signal
Good
-9 to -12 dB
Good
Stable performance
Fair
-13 to -15 dB
Fair
Moderate interference
Poor
-16 to -18 dB
Poor
High interference
Very Poor
< -18 dB
Very Poor
Likely unusable
4G RSSI Signal Legend
Color & Strength
RSSI (dBm)
Quality
Interpretation
Excellent
≥ -65 dBm
Excellent
Very strong signal
Good
-66 to -75 dBm
Good
Strong signal
Fair
-76 to -85 dBm
Fair
Usable signal
Poor
-86 to -95 dBm
Poor
High noise
Very Poor
< -95 dBm
Very Poor
Likely unusable
**5G Signal Quality Legend**
For 5G New Radio (NR) networks, signal strength is measured using “Synchronization Signal – Reference Signal Received Power” (SS-RSRP) with the following quality classifications.
| -13 to -15 dB | Fair | Moderate interference |
|
Poor
| -16 to -18 dB | Poor | High interference |
|
Very Poor
| < -18 dB | Very Poor | Likely unusable |
5G RSSI Signal Legend
Color & Strength
RSSI (dBm)
Quality
Interpretation
Excellent
≥ -65 dBm
Excellent
Very strong signal
Good
-65 to -75 dBm
Good
Strong signal
Fair
-76 to -85 dBm
Fair
Usable signal
Poor
-86 to -95 dBm
Poor
High noise
Very Poor
< -95 dBm
Very Poor
Likely unusable
### Charts and Visualizations
The Survey tool generates comprehensive time-series charts that display RF performance metrics throughout the survey duration. These visualizations help identify temporal patterns, signal degradation trends, and correlation between different RF parameters. The charts are displayed below the map visualization and update dynamically based on the loaded survey data.
#### RSRP Signal Strength Chart
Displays RSRP measurements over time, showing the power level of the received signal from the serving cell. RSRP is the primary metric for assessing overall signal strength and coverage quality.
Higher values (closer to 0) indicate stronger signal. Look for consistent levels indicating stable coverage or drops suggesting coverage gaps.
Y-Axis: Signal strength in dBm (decibels relative to one milliwatt)
X-Axis: Time progression during the survey
#### SINR Chart
Displays SINR measurements over time, indicating signal quality relative to interference and noise. SINR is the best predictor of actual data throughput and user experience.
Higher values indicate better signal quality. Low SINR suggests interference issues that may impact throughput even when signal strength appears adequate.
Y-Axis: Ratio in dB (decibels)
X-Axis: Time progression during the survey
#### RSRQ Signal Strength Chart
Displays RSRQ measurements over time, indicating signal quality considering interference from adjacent cells. RSRQ helps identify interference scenarios and cell edge conditions.
Poor RSRQ with good RSRP suggests high interference from neighboring cells. This pattern often indicates need for interference mitigation or frequency refarming.
Y-Axis: Quality metric in dB (decibels)
X-Axis: Time progression during the survey
#### RSSI Chart
Displays RSSI measurements over time, representing the combined power of signal, interference, and noise. Useful for assessing overall radio environment conditions. RSSI cannot distinguish between useful signal and interference. Use alongside RSRP and SINR for a complete picture.
Y-Axis: RSSI in dBm
X-Axis: Time progression during the survey
### Distance-Based Grouping
The “Group by Distance” feature allows you to aggregate measurement data points at specific spatial intervals, simplifying visualization and analysis of large survey datasets. This feature is particularly useful when analyzing extensive drive tests or when you need to reduce visual clutter while maintaining spatial patterns.
The following grouping intervals are available:
* None – Display all individual measurement points without aggregation. Use this for detailed analysis of specific areas or when survey data is already sparse.
* 1m interval – Group measurements at 1-meter intervals. Useful for pedestrian surveys or detailed indoor coverage analysis.
* 2m interval – Group measurements at 2-meter intervals. Provides good balance between detail and readability for walking surveys.
* 5m interval – Group measurements at 5-meter intervals. Suitable for slow-speed drive tests or comprehensive area surveys.
* 7m interval – Group measurements at 7-meter intervals. Good compromise for moderate-speed drive tests.
* 10m interval – Group measurements at 10-meter intervals. Ideal for high-speed drive tests or when analyzing large coverage areas.
## Generate Survey Logs
Prepare for the survey:
1. Verify that the GXC Survey mobile app is installed on the mobile device.
2. Verify that location services (GPS) are enabled on the device.
3. Verify that the mobile device has sufficient battery life for the planned survey duration.
4. Verify network connectivity if using cloud synchronization.
5. If using local storage, verify sufficient storage space is available.
**To generate a survey log using the GXC Survey mobile app:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface:
1. Click **Venue**.\
The **Venues** page is displayed.
2. In the list of venues, click the venue for which you want to generate a survey log.\
The **\** page > **Overview** tab displays the venue's details.
3. Click the **Survey** tab.\
The Survey tool interface is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Generate an access token:
1. In the **Survey Logs** section, click the **Generate Access Token** button.
The **Generate Access Token** dialog box is displayed.
2. In the **Token validity (days)** text box, enter the number of days the token should remain valid, then click **Generate**.\
The system generates an access token QR code.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To start a survey:
1. In the mobile device, open the GXC Survey app and scan the access token QR code generated in the Onyx Portal to authenticate and associate the app with the venue.
2. Close the **Generate Access Token** dialog box.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Configure the survey parameters:
1. Launch the GXC Survey app on your mobile device.
2. To scan the access token QR code generated in the Onyx Portal:
1. Click the (scan) icon.\
The camera/scanner app opens.
2. Point to the QR code displayed in the Onyx Portal interface.\
The **QR Code Data** dialog box displays the QR code’s details.
3. Click **Close**.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Conduct the survey:
1. To start the survey recording in the mobile app, click the (start) icon.
2. Walk or drive through the planned route.
3. Move at a steady pace to ensure consistent data collection.
4. If required, to pause the survey, click the  (pause) icon.\
To resume the survey, click the  (start) icon.
5. To add notes at specific locations to document observations (obstacles, interference sources, points of interest, etc.), click (add notes) icon.
The **Add Note** dialog box is displayed.
6. Enter the note and click **Save**.
7. Monitor the app to ensure continuous data collection.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Complete and save the survey:
1. To stop the survey recording when the coverage area has been fully surveyed, click the  (stop) icon.
2. The survey log file is automatically saved to cloud storage.
3. To save the survey log file locally on the mobile device, click **Save HTML**.
4. To view survey log files saved locally on the mobile device, click  **Files**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Upload Local Survey Logs
If your survey logs are stored locally on your mobile device, you can transfer them to your computer and upload them to cloud storage via the Onyx Portal.
**To upload a local survey log file to the cloud storage:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface:
1. Click **Venue**.\
The **Venues** page is displayed.
2. In the list of venues, click the name of the venue for which you want to generate a survey report.
3. Click the **Survey** tab.\
The Survey tool interface is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Upload the local survey file:
1. Click the **Upload Local File** button.\
The **Select Survey Files** dialog box is displayed.
2. Click **Browse File**, then select the survey file on your computer.
3. To only view the survey file, click **View Only**.
4. To upload the survey file to the cloud storage, click **Upload & View**.
{% hint style="info" %}
**NOTE**: The survey location must be within 20 miles of the venue. If file validation fails, an error is displayed.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Upload KMZ Coverage Overlays
You can upload a KMZ coverage prediction file (exported from EINO or a compatible planning tool) and overlay it on the survey map to compare predicted RF coverage against actual measured data. Where possible, the overlay uses aligned legends and color coding for consistent interpretation.
**To upload a KMZ coverage overlay:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface:
1. Click **Venue**.\
The **Venues** page is displayed.
2. In the list of venues, click the name of the venue for which you want to generate a survey report.
3. Click the **Survey** tab.\
The Survey tool interface is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Under **Coverage Overlays (KMZ from EINO)**, click **Upload KMZ**.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Select the KMZ file from your computer and click **Open**.
The file is uploaded and appears in the list of Coverage Overlays.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Open a survey for the venue.
The KMZ basemap is displayed as an overlay layer on the survey map.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Add or Edit Survey Labels to Log Files
Labels allow you to annotate survey log files and coverage overlay files with descriptive names and notes, making it easier to identify files and understand their context at a glance.
**To add or edit a label:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface:
1. Click **Venue**.\
The **Venues** page is displayed.
2. In the list of venues, click the name of the venue for which you want to generate a survey report.
3. Click the **Survey** tab.\
The Survey tool interface is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
In the list of survey logs / coverage overlays, for the file that you want to add or edit label, in the **Actions** column, click the ⋮ (options) icon, and then click **Edit Label**.
Survey Log File Actions Menu
Coverage Overlay File Actions Menu
The **Edit Label** dialog box is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
In the **Label** text box, enter/edit the label text, then click **Save**.
In the list of survey logs / coverage overlays, the **Label** column displays the added/updated label.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Best Practices for Field Surveys
To ensure high-quality survey data collection:
* Plan Survey Routes – Map out the survey path in advance to ensure complete coverage of the area of interest.
* Maintain Consistent Speed – Walk or drive at a steady pace (typically 3-5 mph for walking surveys, 15-25 mph for drive tests).
* Verify GPS Accuracy – Ensure GPS signal is strong before starting the survey, especially in indoor or urban canyon environments.
* Monitor Battery Levels – For extended surveys, bring backup power sources.
* Survey Multiple Times – Conduct surveys at different times of day to capture variations in network performance.
* Compare Multiple Surveys – Conduct multiple surveys over time and compare results to track network performance trends.
* Note environmental conditions – Document physical obstructions, weather, and other factors that may affect signal at the time of the survey.
## Generate Survey Reports
{% hint style="info" %}
**NOTE:** You can generate, analyze, and view survey reports in the Onyx Portal interface only if you are a GXC Administrator or Super Administrator.
{% endhint %}
This section provides instructions for generating survey reports. The process involves accessing the Survey app, configuring data sources, generating access tokens when needed, and loading survey data for visualization and analysis.
Before using the Survey tool, ensure the following requirements are met:
* Valid user account with appropriate permissions to access the Venues section
* Network configuration completed (4G or 5G network deployed)
* Survey logs generated from compatible RF measurement tools
* For cloud-based logs: Active network connectivity and valid access token
* For local logs: Survey log files in JSON format
**To generate a survey report:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface:
1. Click **Venue**.\
The **Venues** page is displayed.
2. In the list of venues, click the name of the venue for which you want to generate a survey report.
3. Click the **Survey** tab.\
The Survey tool interface is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
In the **Survey Logs** section, click the survey log file's name.
After a survey log is successfully loaded, the interface displays an interactive visualization of the survey report, including:
* Map with signal measurements and color-coded markers
* Time-series charts showing RSRP, SINR, RSRQ, RSSI metrics
* Interactive data points with detailed measurement information
* Summary statistics for RF performance metrics
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
## Analyze Survey Reports
This section explains how to analyze survey reports using visualization tools, interpret RF metrics, and extract actionable insights for network optimization. Effective analysis combines spatial visualization with quantitative metrics to identify coverage issues, interference patterns, and optimization opportunities.
## Interactive Map Features
The Survey tool includes several interactive controls to optimize your analysis workflow. These features help you focus on specific RF metrics, understand temporal coverage patterns, and efficiently compare multiple surveys.
### Signal Metric Selector
The Signal Metric Selector allows you to switch between different RF metrics to diagnose network issues and verify coverage quality.
Understanding metrics:
* RSRP measures the power level of the primary signal from the serving cell. Use RSRP to assess overall signal strength and identify areas with weak coverage. RSRP is the primary indicator for coverage assessment and network planning.
* SINR indicates signal quality relative to interference and noise. Use SINR to diagnose interference issues and assess potential data throughput. SINR is the best predictor of user experience and application performance.
* RSRQ measures signal quality considering interference from adjacent cells. Use RSRQ to identify cell edge conditions and inter-cell interference scenarios. RSRQ helps distinguish between coverage problems and capacity issues.
* RSSI represents total received power including signal, interference, and noise. Use RSSI to assess overall RF energy levels in the environment. Note that RSSI cannot distinguish between useful signal and interference.
* Cell (PCI) visualization displays Physical Cell IDs with unique color coding per cell. Use Cell view to visualize cell boundaries, identify handover zones, and detect coverage overlap areas. This is essential for cell planning and neighbor relation optimization.
**To select a metric:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Above the map area, in the right corner, click the metric selector dropdown and select the desired metric.
The map automatically updates to display color-coded measurement points corresponding to the selected metric. The color scheme follows the signal quality thresholds (green = excellent, yellow = good, orange = fair, red = poor, black = very poor).
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Observe the coverage patterns and identify problem areas based on color coding.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
**Analysis Workflows:**
* Coverage Assessment – Start with RSRP to get an overall view of signal strength distribution. Green markers indicate strong coverage suitable for high throughput applications. Yellow markers show good coverage with stable connections. Orange markers indicate areas where service quality may degrade. Red and black markers highlight priority areas needing network improvements.
* Interference Diagnosis – If RSRP shows adequate signal strength (green or yellow) but users report poor performance, switch to SINR. Low SINR despite good RSRP indicates interference problems rather than weak signal. This typically requires interference mitigation (antenna optimization, power adjustments, or frequency planning) rather than additional sites.
* Cell Boundary Verification – Use Cell (PCI) visualization to verify that cells are serving their intended coverage areas. Each cell appears in a unique color. Multiple colors in close proximity may indicate coverage overlap requiring handover parameter optimization. Abrupt color changes suggest hard handover boundaries that may cause call drops.
* Quality Troubleshooting – Compare RSRP (signal strength) with RSRQ (signal quality). Good RSRP but poor RSRQ suggests interference from neighboring cells or capacity constraints. Poor RSRP with poor RSRQ indicates fundamental coverage gaps requiring additional infrastructure.
* Post-Deployment Validation – After network changes, systematically review each metric. Verify RSRP meets coverage targets, SINR indicates low interference, RSRQ shows good cell quality, and Cell (PCI) boundaries align with planning expectations.
### Signal Quality Legends
The Signal Quality Legends dialog box provides comprehensive reference information to help you interpret the color-coded measurement points on the map.
To access legends:
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
In the Metric Selector dropdown, select a metric.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Click the **Show Legends** button.
The Legend's dialog box displays record types and signal quality thresholds information.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Review the record types and applicable signal quality thresholds.
For information on record types refer to Radio Log Record Types. For detailed interpretation of the signal quality thresholds, refer to *Signal Quality Legends*.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Point Measurement Metrics
Point measurement analysis allows you to inspect detailed RF metrics and neighbor cell information for any measurement point on the map. This feature is essential for troubleshooting specific coverage issues, validating network performance at critical locations, and understanding the RF environment at problem areas.
**To view detailed information about a specific measurement point:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
On the map, click a measurement point.
A popup displays the following information.
* **Network** – Network identifier and type (e.g., LTE, 315010 (NR) for 5G New Radio)
* **Timestamp** – Exact date and time of measurement (YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS.mmm)
* **PCI** – Physical Cell Identifier
* **Bandwidth** – Channel bandwidth (MHz)
* **CenterFrequency** – Operating frequency of the channel (MHz)
* When viewing a single measurement point, individual metric values are displayed:
* **RSRP** – Reference Signal Received Power (dBm)
* **SINR** – Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (dB)
* **RSRQ** – Reference Signal Received Quality (dB)
* **RSSI** – Received Signal Strength Indicator (dBm)
* **Summary** – When multiple measurements exist at a point, a Summary table displays statistical analysis for each RF metric:
* **Min** – Minimum value recorded
* **Max** – Maximum value recorded
* **Mean** – Average value across all measurements
* **Neighbor Cells** – A table displays information about neighboring cells detected during the measurement:
* **Type** – Network type (e.g., LTE, NR)
* **MCC** – Mobile Country Code
* **MNC** – Mobile Network Code
* **PCI** – Physical Cell Identifier of the neighbor cell
* **RSRP** – Signal strength from neighbor cell (dBm)
* **SINR** – Signal quality from neighbor cell (dB)
* **Freq** – Operating frequency (MHz)
* **BW** – Bandwidth (MHz)
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Survey Playback
Survey Playback animates the surveyor's route from start to end at an accelerated speed, revealing how signal quality varied during data collection. Playback is particularly useful for identifying the exact location and time of coverage gaps, handover events, or sudden signal changes along the survey route.
**To initiate a survey playback:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Click the (Play Survey) control above the map area.
A marker begins moving along the survey route from the starting point.
The animation follows the actual surveyor's path at an accelerated speed.
Watch how the measurement points colors change as the survey progresses. This reveals how signal quality varied during data collection.
The playback automatically stops on reaching the end point.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To repeat the animation, click (Play Survey) control again.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Expandable Map View
Expandable map view allows you to hide the signal graphs displayed below the map area. When graphs are hidden, the map automatically expands to fill the available screen space, providing a larger canvas for analyzing coverage data. It is particularly useful when reviewing long survey routes or analyzing coverage in dense urban environments where detailed map inspection is required.
**To expand the map view:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Below the map area, in the right corner, click the (Hide Graphs) control.
The graphs are hidden, and the map automatically expands to fill the available screen space.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To display the signal graphs, click the (Show Graphs) control.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Fullscreen Map View
Fullscreen map view expands the map to fill your entire browser window, maximizing the viewing area for detailed coverage analysis. It is particularly useful for large venue analysis, detailed inspection of long drive-test routes, multi-metric comparison, and working on smaller displays.
**To view full screen map:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
In the map interface, click the (Fullscreen) control.
The map expands to fill the browser window.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To restore normal view, press **ESC**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Combine Multiple Surveys
The Combine Surveys feature allows you to merge two or more survey logs into a single consolidated view on the map and in the signal charts. This is useful for building a comprehensive picture of coverage across an entire venue from surveys conducted in multiple sessions or by multiple surveyors.
#### Constraints
* Distance constraint – Surveys can only be combined if their geographic extents are within a defined proximity. Surveys from distant or unrelated locations cannot be combined.
* Performance constraint – Combining a large number of surveys or surveys with very high data point counts may affect rendering performance. The system may limit the number of surveys that can be combined simultaneously.
#### Graph Behavior for Combined Surveys
When surveys are combined, the signal charts differentiate data from each individual survey. Non-overlapping survey segments are visually distinguished in the graphs, allowing you to identify which portion of the chart corresponds to each survey session.
#### Combine Surveys Procedure
**To combine surveys:**
{% hint style="info" %}
**NOTE:** Combining surveys does not permanently merge the underlying survey log files. The combined view is only a visualization overlay. Each survey log remains independently accessible in the Survey Logs table.
{% endhint %}
### Switch Survey
The Switch Survey feature allows you to load a different survey without returning to the list of venues. It is particularly useful when analyzing multiple surveys, for before/after optimization comparisons, observing coverage trends over time, and comparing 4G and 5G coverage patterns.
The survey selection dropdown sorts surveys by date, with the most recent survey listed first, making it easier to locate and load the latest data.
**To switch surveys:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Above the map area, in the right corner, click the (switch survey file) control.
The *\* **Survey** tab is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
In the **Survey Logs** section, click the survey log file's name.
The survey map is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
## Analyze RF Metrics
The Survey tool displays multiple RF metrics that provide different perspectives on network performance. Understanding how to interpret these metrics individually and in combination is essential for effective network analysis. This section provides guidance for interpreting RF metrics displayed in the Survey tool. For detailed signal quality thresholds and color-coded legends, refer to the Signal Quality Legends section.
### Understanding RF Metrics
The Survey tool displays four primary RF performance metrics. Understanding how these metrics interact is essential for accurate network assessment:
* RSRP (4G) / SS-RSRP (5G)
* Purpose: Primary indicator of signal strength and coverage
* What it measures: Power level of reference signals from the serving cell
* Key insight: Indicates how far the signal reaches and overall coverage quality
* Units: dBm (decibels relative to one milliwatt)
* Typical range: -80 dBm (excellent) to -120 dBm (very poor)
* RSRQ
* Purpose: Indicates signal quality considering interference from adjacent cells
* What it measures: Signal quality relative to interference levels
* Key insight: Reveals interference issues, especially at cell edges
* Units: dB (decibels)
* Typical range: -9 dB (excellent) to -18 dB (very poor) for 4G
* SINR
* Purpose: Best predictor of actual data throughput and user experience
* What it measures: Ratio of useful signal power to combined interference and noise
* Key insight: Directly correlates with achievable data rates
* Units: dB (decibels)
* Typical range: +20 dB (excellent) to -3 dB (very poor)
* RSSI
* Purpose: Measures total wideband received power
* What it measures: Combined power of signal, interference, and noise
* Key insight: Total RF energy level; doesn't distinguish between signal and interference
* Units: dBm
* Typical range: -65 dBm (excellent) to -95 dBm (very poor) for 4G
### Metric Relationships and Dependencies
Understanding how metrics interact helps identify specific network issues:
* Good coverage, poor performance (Good RSRP, Poor SINR, Poor RSRQ)
* Likely Cause: High interference from neighboring cells
* Recommended Action: Check for co-channel interference; adjust antenna tilt or power
* Weak signal everywhere (Poor RSRP, Poor SINR, Fair RSRQ)
* Likely Cause: Distance from cell or physical obstruction
* Recommended Action: Add cell site or increase power; check for physical obstructions
* Edge of cell condition (Fair RSRP, Fair SINR, Poor RSRQ)
* Likely Cause: Cell edge condition with adjacent cell interference
* Recommended Action: Normal behavior; consider adding sites or adjusting cell boundaries
* Strong signal, good performance (Good RSRP, Good SINR, Good RSRQ)
* Status: Optimal conditions
* Action: No action needed
* Inconsistent metrics (Variable across all)
* Likely Cause: Mobility effects or changing environmental conditions
* Recommended Action: Review survey path and environmental factors
### Best Practices for Metric Analysis
* Always analyze metrics together – No single metric tells the complete story
* Consider context – Indoor vs outdoor, distance from cell, environmental factors
* Compare with baseline – Track changes over time to identify degradation
* Validate with user experience – Metrics predict performance, but actual user testing confirms
* Document environmental factors – Note physical obstructions, interference sources, weather conditions
* Use the Survey Playback to correlate metric changes with specific locations along the survey route
## Export Survey Log Files
Raw survey log files can be downloaded from the Onyx Portal to your local computer for external analysis, archival, or use with third-party tools.
**To export a survey log file:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
In the **Survey Logs** list, for the survey file that you want to export, in the **Actions** column, click the ⋮ (options) icon, and then click **Export**.
The raw JSON survey log file is downloaded to your computer's default download location.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
## Add an AP Marker
AP markers place AP location indicators on survey maps to help correlate RF measurements with the physical positions of deployed or planned APs. Markers can be added for units not yet provisioned in the network.
When you add an AP marker to a venue's survey map, it will appear on all survey maps associated with the venue.
AP markers can be added from the AP Markers tab or by right-clicking directly on the survey map.
**To add an AP marker directly on the survey map:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the survey map.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
On the map, right click the point at which you want to add the AP marker.
The **Add Access Point** dialog box is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Enter the following details:
* **Name** — (Required) The AP's name.
* **Serial Number** — (Required) The AP equipment's vendor-assigned serial number.
* **Device Class** — (Optional) The AP equipment's device class.
* Latitude — (View-only) The location's latitude.
* Longitude — (View-only) The location's longitude.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To save the AP marker, click **Add**.
The AP marker is added to the location on the map.
The AP marker is added to the list of AP markers in the venue's **AP Markers** tab.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
**To add an AP marker from the venue's AP Markers tab:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Click **Venues**.
The **Venues** page displays the list of venues associated with the network.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Click the name of the venue to which you want to add AP markers to survey maps.
The ***\*** page > **Overview** tab displays the venue's details.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Click the **AP Markers** tab.
The **AP Markers** tab displays the list of AP markers added to the venue's survey maps.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Click **Add AP Marker**.
The **Add Access Point** dialog box is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Enter the following details:
* **Name** — (Required) The AP's name.
* **Serial Number** — (Required) The AP equipment's vendor-assigned serial number.
* **Device Class** — (Optional) The AP equipment's device class.
* Latitude — (View-only) The location's latitude.
* Longitude — (View-only) The location's longitude.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To save the AP marker, click **Add**.
The AP marker is added to the list of AP markers.
The AP marker is added to the location on the venue's survey map(s).
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
## Delete Survey and Coverage Overlay Files
Survey log and coverage overlay files that are no longer needed can be deleted from the Onyx Portal to keep the survey list manageable.
{% hint style="info" %}
**NOTE:** Deletion is permanent and cannot be undone. Export or archive any files you may need before deleting. See *Download Survey Data*.
{% endhint %}
**To delete a survey or coverage overlay file:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
In the list of survey logs / coverage overlays, for the file that you want to delete, in the **Actions** column, click the ⋮ (options) icon, and then click **Delete**.
Survey Log File Actions Menu
Coverage Overlay File Actions Menu
A confirmation dialog box is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To confirm deleting the file, click **Confirm**.
The survey log / coverage overlay file is removed from the list.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
## Related Documentation
* *GXC Glossary*
* *4G Onyx Portal Operations Guide* / *5G Onyx Portal Operations Guide*
* *5G Spectrum Analyzer Application Note*
## Contact GXC
To get in touch with GXC, please visit .
---
# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.
## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.
Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:
```
GET https://docs.gxc.io/docs/application-notes/4g-and-5g-onyx-survey-solution.md?ask=&goal=
```
`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.
Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.
.png?alt=media&token=fa7db4b6-be60-4a0d-b28c-51194475816a)
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(scan) icon.\
The camera/scanner app opens.
2. Point to the QR code displayed in the Onyx Portal interface.\
The **QR Code Data** dialog box displays the QR code’s details.
(start) icon.
2. Walk or drive through the planned route.
3. Move at a steady pace to ensure consistent data collection.
4. If required, to pause the survey, click the  (pause) icon.\
To resume the survey, click the  (start) icon.
5. To add notes at specific locations to document observations (obstacles, interference sources, points of interest, etc.), click 
(add notes) icon.
The **Add Note** dialog box is displayed.
**Save HTML**.
4. To view survey log files saved locally on the mobile device, click  **Files**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Upload Local Survey Logs
If your survey logs are stored locally on your mobile device, you can transfer them to your computer and upload them to cloud storage via the Onyx Portal.
**To upload a local survey log file to the cloud storage:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Onyx Portal Survey tool interface:
1. Click **Venue**.\
The **Venues** page is displayed.
2. In the list of venues, click the name of the venue for which you want to generate a survey report.
3. Click the **Survey** tab.\
The Survey tool interface is displayed.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
Upload the local survey file:
1. Click the **Upload Local File** button.\
The **Select Survey Files** dialog box is displayed.
.png?alt=media&token=9838d7d0-4d39-4d42-8734-bf88133ce1c1)
(Play Survey) control above the map area.
A marker begins moving along the survey route from the starting point.
The animation follows the actual surveyor's path at an accelerated speed.
Watch how the measurement points colors change as the survey progresses. This reveals how signal quality varied during data collection.
The playback automatically stops on reaching the end point.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To repeat the animation, click 
(Play Survey) control again.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Expandable Map View
Expandable map view allows you to hide the signal graphs displayed below the map area. When graphs are hidden, the map automatically expands to fill the available screen space, providing a larger canvas for analyzing coverage data. It is particularly useful when reviewing long survey routes or analyzing coverage in dense urban environments where detailed map inspection is required.
**To expand the map view:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Below the map area, in the right corner, click the 
(Hide Graphs) control.
The graphs are hidden, and the map automatically expands to fill the available screen space.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To display the signal graphs, click the 
(Show Graphs) control.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Fullscreen Map View
Fullscreen map view expands the map to fill your entire browser window, maximizing the viewing area for detailed coverage analysis. It is particularly useful for large venue analysis, detailed inspection of long drive-test routes, multi-metric comparison, and working on smaller displays.
**To view full screen map:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
In the map interface, click the 
(Fullscreen) control.
The map expands to fill the browser window.
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
To restore normal view, press **ESC**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
### Combine Multiple Surveys
The Combine Surveys feature allows you to merge two or more survey logs into a single consolidated view on the map and in the signal charts. This is useful for building a comprehensive picture of coverage across an entire venue from surveys conducted in multiple sessions or by multiple surveyors.
#### Constraints
* Distance constraint – Surveys can only be combined if their geographic extents are within a defined proximity. Surveys from distant or unrelated locations cannot be combined.
* Performance constraint – Combining a large number of surveys or surveys with very high data point counts may affect rendering performance. The system may limit the number of surveys that can be combined simultaneously.
#### Graph Behavior for Combined Surveys
When surveys are combined, the signal charts differentiate data from each individual survey. Non-overlapping survey segments are visually distinguished in the graphs, allowing you to identify which portion of the chart corresponds to each survey session.
#### Combine Surveys Procedure
**To combine surveys:**
{% hint style="info" %}
**NOTE:** Combining surveys does not permanently merge the underlying survey log files. The combined view is only a visualization overlay. Each survey log remains independently accessible in the Survey Logs table.
{% endhint %}
### Switch Survey
The Switch Survey feature allows you to load a different survey without returning to the list of venues. It is particularly useful when analyzing multiple surveys, for before/after optimization comparisons, observing coverage trends over time, and comparing 4G and 5G coverage patterns.
The survey selection dropdown sorts surveys by date, with the most recent survey listed first, making it easier to locate and load the latest data.
**To switch surveys:**
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Above the map area, in the right corner, click the 
(switch survey file) control.
The *\
