Geolocation of LTE subscriber stations based on the timing advance ranging parameter

This paper investigates geolocating a Long Term Evolution (LTE) subscriber station based on the timing advance ranging parameter within the network signal internals. The basic approach to geolocation based on radial distances from multiple base stations is outlined. Specifics of the timing parameters used during LTE network entry are examined as they relate to calculating these distances. Computer simulation is used to demonstrate expected geolocation accuracy in multiple base station networks when estimating likely locations of subscriber stations on a two-dimensional coordinate mapping system. Computer simulation is further refined to demonstrate expected geolocation accuracy in multiple base station networks when estimating likely locations of subscriber stations on a three-dimensional coordinate mapping scheme. Results show the possibility of fixes with ten times greater accuracy than in previous results in the literature when applying timing advance techniques to Global System for Mobile communications networks when using a two-dimensional coordinate mapping scheme, and accuracy approaching fifty centimeters when using a three-dimensional coordinate mapping scheme, accuracy that is comparable to the accuracy in Global Positioning System technologies.