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Customer Magazine of MicroNova
01-2019
Complete Simulation
of Electric Machines
Powerful test systems from MicroNova for various
electric motor technologies
New Solutions for Mobile
Network Operators
Additional functionalities for higher service quality
and customer satisfaction
Artificial Intelligence
in the IT Service Desk
ManageEngine white paper on possible usage
scenarios and optimal preparation
www.micronova.de
Editorial
„A well-rounded matter“
Dear Reader,
This time I would like to begin with a personal note: At the time
when this issue was going to press, I celebrated my 20th anniver-
sary with MicroNova – just as some other colleagues; more about
that later in the “Internals” section. In all these years, so much has
changed...
20 years ago, MicroNova had about 35 employees. The Automation
& Simulation department – today Testing Solutions – had six, and
the Vierkirchen location had been in existence for just five years.
Mobile phones still had push buttons and at the International Motor
Show, Audi was presenting its A2, and BMW its Z8. Both series are
now history and today’s mobile phones only have the on-off
switches and the volume controls as remaining buttons.
Today, Testing Solutions employs around 160 colleagues, working at
nine different locations to develop effective solutions, primarily for
the automobile industry. Back then, the number of control units in an average vehicle was somewhere in the low two-digit range.
Today, there are sometimes over 100. And all of these conrol units have to be tested, including those for electrification. An article
on page 4 deals with this topic in depth. Other subjects in this edition include continuous testing as well as a description of what
our consulting team has to offer.
From automobiles to mobile radio, which has also been mentioned above: Despite all the discussions about the 5G technology, it
is above all long-range and reliable mobile radio networks that count, regardless of mobile radio standards – a differentiated view
on this topic is included in this magazine. As a result, information about customer satisfaction is critical to the success of mobile
operators. MicroNova, in cooperation with its new partner Expandium, has put together a solution package that addresses exactly
these topics: COM5.AddOn. A review of the first User Day of the Telco Solutions Department completes this part of InNOVAtion.
Back to 1999: It would be another three years before we began our partnership with a company called AdventNet, today’s ZOHO
Corp. MicroNova has since become the exclusive distributor of their ManageEngine products in Germany, supporting more than
1,000 German customers using the IT management software. This department has developed splendidly in the last few years, which
is why we are not only presenting new products in this issue of InNOVAtion but why we are also taking a look at ManageEngine’s
partner conference in India.
My joy of working for and with MicroNova has not diminished – it is at least as great as it was in 1999. And the sense of rootedness
that MicroNova has in its “two hometowns”, Vierkirchen (operations) and Jetzendorf (headquarters), has also remained unchanged.
In March, I attended the gymnastics show at the Jetzendorf Athletic Club (TSV) – which we have been supporting for many years –
and I was amazed at what can be achieved with passion and commitment; an article about this can also be found in this issue. The
last word belongs to MicroNova owner Josef W. Karl: In an interview, he discusses the changes in our society mentioned above and
explains what they mean for our company.
And now I wish you, as always, happy reading!
Ihr Orazio Ragonesi
002 // 01-19 // InNOVAtion
Table of Contents
002 // Editorial
003 // Table of Contents
Testing Solutions
004 // Complete Simulation of Electric Machines
The NovaCarts High Speed I/O Board and suitable simulation models enable
reliable validation of ECUs for electric motors
010 // Optimize Development Processes
with Continuous Integration
New EXAM plug-ins enable continuous testing of control unit software
015 // Just Asking…
A year ago, MicroNova set up its Consulting & Services department –
an interim review
Telco Solutions
016 // Portfolio Extended: Telco Solutions
Expands COM.5 Offering
MicroNova and Expandium present a new solution package boosting service
quality and customer satisfaction
020 // Can’t Germany Operate Mobile
Communications Networks?
German mobile telephony is not struggling as much as current reports on the
5G introduction suggest – a commentary
022 // Review: Telco Solutions UserDay
The latest developments concerning 5G and the COM5 product family were
spotlighted at the first Telco Solutions UserDay
IT Management
024 // ManageEngine: Partner Meeting 2019
MicroNova got the lowdown on product innovations and further developments
at the “ManageEngine Partner Conference 2019”
026 // Artificial Intelligence in the IT Service Desk
A white paper from ManageEngine showcases possible usage scenarios and
advises on how to be well prepared
028 // ManageEngine Product News
Key innovations and features of the ManageEngine solutions at a glance
031 // News
036 // Imprint
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 003
Testing Solutions
Complete Simulation
of Electric Machines
Different electric motor technologies require high-performance
test systems for validation. This requires extensive simulations
consisting of hard- and software.
TEXT: Franz Dengler, Micha Damm-Norwig PICTURES: © Chesky / Shutterstock.com
© lucky336, pagadesign / iStock.com
© Oleksandr Delyk / Fotolia.com
004 // 01-19 // InNOVAtion
Testing Solutions
The rapid progress being made in the motor simulation as well as the tric motor is thus not necessary at this
the electrification of vehicles calls for measuring of real energy flows within point in the process.
the development of efficient and reli- the entire vehicle. The third and fourth
able electric motors as well as tests of stages involve checks of the mechani- The purpose of the test at the sig-
the corresponding electronic control cal functions, with dynamometer test nal level (level 1) is to check algo-
units (ECUs). But because the tech- benches and of course the final test in rithms. Here, a simulation solution
nology of electric motors for vehic- the real vehicle. measures the signals that control the
les varies greatly, a multitude of test power output stage and then calcu-
solutions are required, for example, lates the electrical current vis-a-vis the
Comprehensive Testing with-
for the distinct types of motors, such load situation as well as the current
as permanent-magnet synchronous out an Actual Electric Motor position of the motor. One of the main
motors (PSM) in their discriminative At the signal or performance level, advantages of this solution is that no
performance classes; for singlephase manufacturers and suppliers can con- high and thus dangerous currents and
or multiphase control; or for different duct tests that, at the mechanical level voltages have to be recorded, which
types of position sensors. MicroNova or in the actual vehicle itself, could be means that operation is not restricted.
has developed NovaCarts simulators carried out only in a limited manner or Additionally, the execution of the test
and boards as well as software tools not at all. Part of this testing process is cost-effective, and the testing can be
that meet these requirements. includes the simulation of tolerances done right on the developer's desk.
as well as the simulation of error ca-
The validation of control units for ses, such as asymmetries or motor-
electric motors is carried out in mul- winding short circuits. Hence, control
tiple stages (see fig. 1). In the first of units can be reliably validated at an
four levels, the control signals are early stage of the signal and perfor- The validation of control
1 units is performed on
tested in a simulation solution. The mance level without unduly stressing
following performance stage involves the development budget. A real elec- four levels.
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 005
Testing Solutions
For fast, accurate and efficient tes- For testing at performance level (le- Tracing enables fast signals and model
ting at signal level, the following re- vel 2), MicroNova also collaborates variables to be recorded in very high
quirements should be met: with renowned manufacturers of elec- time resolution.
tric machine emulators. Throughout
» Fast hardware for the simulation this collaboration, numerous projects NovaCarts High-Speed I/O Board
of the electric motor: Usually have been implemented, including (NC-GMB3010)
simulation times of less than one ones in which the entire vehicle and its MicroNova has developed the high-
microsecond are required. real energy flow are simulated. Thus, speed I/O board “NovaCarts NC-
the NovaCarts portfolio covers all re- GMB3010” especially for the simula-
» Sufficient number of fast I/O quirements for the verification of con- tion of electric motors (see fig. 2). The
connectors: With the introduction trol units in electric motors. board is also used for the simulation
of multiphase control in electric of DC-DC converters or for the testing
motors comes the corresponding Comprehensive Portfolio for of control units for inductive charging.
need for a greater number of out- Generally, it is suitable for areas of ap-
the Testing of Electric-Motor
puts for simulating phase currents. plication in which fast signal proces-
Control Units sing and generation are required.
» High-resolution, high-precision In addition to NovaCarts hardware
simulation models for electric and the associated simulation models, NovaCarts NC-GMB3010 features a
motors the test components for electric mo- System-on-Chip (SoC) module (Xilinx
tor control units also include solutions Ultrascale) consisting of a powerful
» Support for modeling tools such for convenient implementation of cus- FPGA processor and a quad-core ARM
as Simulink: The simulation models tomer-specific Simulink models. Fur- processor (Zynq UltraScale+). This al-
developed in Simulink must be thermore, NovaCarts High-Resolution lows the simulation models for electric
compatible with FPGA.
» Tools for debugging simulation
models and analyzing tests: In this
context, it is of central importance
to provide high-resolution recor-
dings of I/O and simulation vari
ables in the microsecond range.
The NovaCarts High-
2 Speed I/O Board (NC-
GMB3010) is suitable for
applications that require fast
signal processing & genera-
tion.
006 // 01-19 // InNOVAtion
Testing Solutions
With the NovaCarts
3 simulation NC-EMotPSM
IGBT signals, DI, peg
Differential equation permant synchronous ma
parameters, EM-Mode,
I and U manipulation, sin_cos_CPC chines can be simulated.
R_PWM, U_Zkr, I_zkr
PhaseSort_PWM
new FPGA part Udq manipulation
from PC IGBTs_on
DIs IGBT-Sim CalcUdUq
Us123
Control register Udq
Phase offsets existing sin/cos sin/cos sin/cos Filter
omega_mech, FPGA part PC/FPGA
Model angle Differential equation Solution
offset Angle generation Sort parameter, Differential equation
sin/cos, EM-Mode
Calc_IGBTs_on
PWM Idq
trigger Filter
generation Idq manipulation, to PC
Angle_Sync, (every 20us) Is123 manipulation
DO, DOs CalcCurrent (Is123)
PHLAG,
Resolver signals
Is123
Filter
Is123
phi_el, IGBTs_on,
deltaT, sin/cos
U_zkr, I_Zkr
Scaling +
offsets phi_el
AO-Scale + Offset
AOs
motors to be split into two general » 8 fast analog inputs (4MHz, 14bit) in the FPGA can thus replace standard
areas of operation: The time-critical processes that no longer meet today’s
parts run on the FPGA while the slower » 32 digital inputs and 32 digital requirements.
parts run on the processor or a sepa- outputs, available at a 3.3V or 5V
rate simulation node. The board can level, which can be operated at a For this purpose, MicroNova has de-
be used to simulate phase currents as frequency of up to 20 MHz veloped a corresponding NovaCarts
well as signals from rotary encoders model for permanent-magnet syn-
and inverters, among others. It also of- All I/Os are directly connected to the chronous motors (NC-EMotPSM) (see
fers a large number of other very fast FPGA and can be addressed at maxi- fig. 3). This model has been used by
digital and analog signals. mum FPGA speed. leading automobile manufacturers
and service providers for many years
The following I/Os are available: Simulation Model for Electric now, and it has proven itself very use-
Motors (NC-EMotPSM) ful in the development of control units
» 14 fast analog outputs (8MHz, The exact simulation of electric mo- for electric motors.
14bit), two of which can be used as tors requires tiny increments of a mi-
sin/cos position encoders crosecond or less. The simulation done
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 007
Testing Solutions
Simulink FPGA-Toolchain NovaCarts High-Resolution Tracing » freely adjustable increment size of
(NC-CAPEFPGA) (NC-HRTRACE) recorded signal in any multiple of
Many of the long-term users have The increasing complexity of con- the base increment
developed their own simulation mo- trol units for electric motors and the
dels using Simulink. These users have associated simulation models requires » recording over several seconds
at their disposal a tool chain for the high-resolution recording of the time (even at the highest recording
generation of FPGA images or FPGA response of these models and the I/ rate)
bit files from Simulink models. Indivi- Os in order to ensure a fast and pre-
dual models are realized as Simulink cise analysis. Given that the models » various trigger options (e.g. rising/
models and, with the help of the Xi- and time response of the control unit falling edge, threshold value, etc.)
linx System Generator, compiled into firmware occur within microseconds
FPGA-specific bit files. MicroNova pro- or even hundredths of a nanosecond, » external trigger option (e.g. if a
vides corresponding Simulink blocks measurement resolution up to such control unit detects an internal
that connect the models to the I/Os values must be commensurate. NC- error)
as well as to higher-level mechanical HRTRACE provides a solution that sup-
simulations, such as driver or transmis- ports users in analyzing over the entire » adjustable pre- and post-triggers
sion models (see fig. 4). bandwidth (see fig. 5). (e.g. for analyzing the record of all
I/Os as well as the internal vari
NC-HRTRACE is characterized by the ables of the simulation model in
following features: case of a ECU internal error)
» recording rates of up to 100 na- » traces saved in MDF4 format for
noseconds comprehensive analysis using
various standard tools
» recording of all I/Os of the mo-
dules » control and automation through
XiL-API for simple and stand
» recording of up to 32 floating- ardized operation when using
point variables from the Simulink test automation solutions such as
model EXAM
The Simulink NC-CAPE-
4 FPGA block set enables
the connection of user pro-
grams and I/Os.
008 // 01-19 // InNOVAtion
Testing Solutions
Conclusion Boards and Modules at a Glance
NovaCarts I/O boards offer high computing power and are characterized by
The MicroNova portfolio for tes- their System-on-Chip approach: Each board is equipped with its own processor
ting electric motor control units sup- and algorithm-based intelligence mapped in the software – perfect conditions
ports automotive manufacturers and for fast and accurate simulations.
suppliers in significantly accelerating
development while at the same time Detailed information on all NovaCarts boards and modules, including data
improving quality. This is all based sheets, is available at www.micronova.de/en/boards-modules.html.
on the high-performance, high-speed
I/O board and its associated simula Further information is available for download at
tion models. When combined with the www.micronova.de/en/testing/info
option of creating self-made Simulink
models, the recording of signals and Your Contact:
model variables in very high time re- Michael Seeger
solution ensures that electric vehicles sales-testing@micronova.de
can be successfully validated. Thus, the +49 8139 9300-0
driver can later rely on his vehicle func-
tioning as intended in all situations.
With NovaCarts
5 High Resolution
Tracing (NC-HRTRACE),
the time behavior of
Simulink models and
I/Os can be recorded.
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 009
Testing Solutions
Optimize Development
Processes with Continuous
Integration
Continuous testing of ECU software – using the
build management system Jenkins and the test
automation solution EXAM as examples
TEXT: Rainer Moosburger PICTURES: © PureSolution / Fotolia.com
© kraifreedom Studio/ Shutterstock.com
With the evolution of testing, the demands on test tools
1 and automation are increasing.
010 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionTesting Solutions
Continuous Testing: The test results are continuously
2 fed back into the development process.
In the area of ECU development, the Control Units), test designers and The use of EXAM in the Continuous
continuous increase in vehicle func- test coordinators usually start test Integration Process (CIP) requires that
tions raises the complexity and thus cases on test benches manually. The developers be able to access the au-
the demands on test tools and test au- Continuous Integration (CI) method, tomation tool directly from the build
tomation. The further development of however, accelerates this process by system. Command-line calls or web
autonomous driving technology and running the tests automatically and by service interfaces, e.g. REST APIs, make
the increase in the number of Car2X continuously feeding the results back this access possible. Only then can
functions make it necessary to test an into the development process. In this Jenkins fully automate the test pro-
ever-greater variety of scenarios. The way, the processes used in the deve- cess.
development cycles in software pro- lopment of ECUs are becoming more
graming have become much shorter and more similar to those used in con- For this purpose, MicroNova has de-
compared to the traditional V-models, ventional software development. veloped an EXAM Plug-in for the REST
which can lead to more integration API, which connects EXAM to the CI
errors. These factors require that the system, thereby allowing the test au-
Continuous Integration
automation of test processes become tomation solution to be remotely con-
ever more comprehensive, for the lar- in ECU Development trolled directly through Jenkins. In this
ge data volumes involved can simply In order to integrate CI into the au- configuration, it is possible to perform
not be processed otherwise. tomotive world, it is necessary to com- tests both automatically and conti-
Against this background, build envi- bine existing test solutions with build nuously at different software deve-
ronments are playing an increasingly management systems like Jenkins. lopment stages. This process is known
important role in securing the corre MicroNova has done just this with its as continuous testing, a sub-process
sponding ECU software – a procedure test automation solution EXAM, which within the larger continuous integra
that is already standard in classic IT can aid in the graphical development tion process. Development and testing
development. In the field of software of test cases. are thus directly linked.
development for ECUs (Electronic
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 011Testing Solutions
Testing Slaves
EXAM Jenkins
Plug-in
Slave 1
Trigger Execute Slave 2
Job Job
Jenkins Master
Slave n
Scheduled Create EXAM Setup / Configuration
Job
Continuous Integration with EXAM requires two components:
3 a Jenkins Plug-in and an EXAM REST-API Plug-in.
Build System EXAM and Jenkins
In software development, the The CI solution for Jenkins consists The REST-API Plug-in for EXAM,
term Build or Build Process refers of two components: a Jenkins Plug-in which complements the access layer
to a process in which an execut and a REST-API Plug-in for EXAM. To for the test automation, is also neces-
able software package is automa- ensure optimal integration with a con- sary for the operation. For this pur
tically generated. The executing venient configuration, an extension for pose, a simple integration concept for
Build Tool (e.g. Jenkins) uses a the connection with EXAM was created Plug-ins (Eclipse RCP basis) is available
formal description of the program using the flexible plug-in concept of in EXAM which extends the function
or function calls to be executed the build system. This Jenkins Plug-in ality of the test automation.
(compiler, linker, etc.) as well as is available for download at https://
the dependencies between these jenkins.io/ under Open Source License MicroNova provides the REST-API
calls. In this way, the source code (MIT). Plug-in for EXAM users under both
is converted into an independent node-locked and floating licenses.
form so that the application can After integrating these with Jenkins,
be executed on a computer. This testers can continue to work with their
compilation process is one of the familiar tools and developers can have
most important steps of a soft- easier access to the results.
ware build.
012 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionTesting Solutions
Deployment and
Configuration
The application of the plug-in solu-
tion makes it possible to install EXAM
remotely on external test systems
which can be accessed from Jenkins.
The same is true for the deployment
of various versions or the updating of
test automation solutions. In this way,
dynamic EXAM instances can be cre
ated or deleted. The configuration of
the EXAM installation (Python Code,
Report Target, EXAM model …) as well
Build Tools are displayed in the Global Tool Configuration, in
as the deployment can be carried out 4 this case EXAM / Python.
in a user-friendly manner, given that it
is analogous to the manual operation
in the EXAM Client and can be done
via the standard Jenkins interface.
Once the installation is complete, the
test cases to be executed are selected
and compiled. At this point it is pos
sible to dynamically load the test com-
pilations from the EXAM model and
apply static specifications. Test cases
or test groups can then be activated
or deactivated. In addition to that, the
depth of detail of the log outputs for
all test runs can be manipulated via
filters.
During the execution of the test
c ases, the EXAM console is transfer-
red to Jenkins for “active” monitoring.
The results are then converted into
the JUnit format so that they can be
displayed graphically in Jenkins in the
usual way. This gives the user a com-
plete overview of the status of the
build, including its history in the form
of a trend profile. The EXAM build steps are easy to configure.
5
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 013Testing Solutions
Smart Expansion –
Big Effect
In comparison to a manual test start
which requires considerable effort in
its configuration, an automated confi-
guration and start significantly reduce
the error susceptibility. Because many
of the individual steps are automated
in the procedure described above, the
extension through the API leads to a
significant acceleration of the entire
process. The automated execution en-
sures a faster return of the results to
the developer and thus enables early
detection of errors. The degree of test
effort as well as the sources of error
in the process can be permanently
reduced, and consequently, the qua-
lity of the tests can be constantly im
proved. In summary, early integration
further shortens development times.
This versatile concept can also be im-
plemented for other automation solu-
tions in the future.
Complete overview of
6 the status of the build,
including its history in the
from of a trend profile.
014 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionTesting Solutions
Just Asking…
Sven-Jan Neuhaus, Head of Consulting & Services, MicroNova AG
More than a year ago, MicroNova set up its Consulting & Services depart-
ment to support Testing Solutions customers with technical expertise, pro-
cess knowledge, and excellent communication skills in the many different
challenges they currently face in automotive testing. What has changed
since then, and how has the industry adopted the service offered?
We are extremely satisfied with the The combination of expertise in test test cases, we noticed opportunities
response received so far. Expanding automation and HiL systems forms the for improvement that were then in
the portfolio to include strategic tes- basis of our consulting and enables us turn incorporated into consulting pro-
ting consulting has been well received to provide a wide range of services – jects.
by the market, and the positive feed- from a well-grounded consulting pro-
back is confirmation of our approach. ject and operational implementation The results of the first year of Micro-
We are able to contribute much earlier to permanent support for test environ- Nova Consulting & Services were
than previously to optimizing test pro- ments. What sets us apart from other therefore very positive. We offer ser
cesses, reaching beyond the classical consulting providers is our understan- vices at the right point in time when
test procedure. We have also taken ding of the interface between planning they are needed by the testing indus
on new tasks such as qualifying soft- and realization – we are active on both try. This is of course only possible
ware tools or structuring complex ap sides, either separately or in combina- if you have the right employees. I
proaches for reorganizing processes tion, depending on the assignment. am really thrilled at the cohesion in
and procedures in testing. the team. Within a period of twelve
Since the interview in InNOVAtion months, we have succeeded in setting
From what we have gathered so far, 01/2018 (“Success requires more up a department guided by coopera-
our approach is meeting the exact than good testing processes”, p.12 ff) tion – with flat hierarchies and a focus
needs of the market for high-quality we have completed various projects, on the skills of each and every indi-
and technically sound advice. Micro- for example the development of a vidual. This combination of exacting
Nova Consulting enjoys a high degree steering solution for a leading vehicle testing services and sound consulting
of credibility among manufacturers manufacturer, all of which began with is also at the foreground of further
and suppliers because our business consulting and then transitioned into developing the Consulting & Services
has its roots in HiL technology. Our operational implementation as part offering for our customers. As already
consultants use and practice this com- of our services. What quite honest- mentioned, each subarea spurs on the
bination of operational experience and ly surprised us is that it also works in other – our services benefit from our
strategic thinking, and find a high level the opposite direction, as we saw in consulting expertise and, vice versa,
of acceptance among our customers a development project for a sports consulting learns a great deal from
thanks to their holistic understanding car manufacturer. While providing operational activities.
of the testing environment. operational services such as support
for the test infrastructure or creating
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 015Telco Solutions
Portfolio Extended:
Telco Solutions Expands
COM.5 Offering
Leading mobile network operators rely on MicroNova for
network planning and configuration. A solution set for Service
Quality Management (SQM) and Customer Experience
Management (CEM) now extends this offering.
Involved: Partner Expandium.
TEXT: Editorial Staff PICTURES: © Syda Productions, Marko Aliaksandr / Shutterstock.com
© Expandium
About Expandium
Since its founding in 2005, Expandium has provided public network providers and rail operators with tools to build network intel-
ligence. From troubleshooting and optimization to Customer Experience Management (CEM) and Service Quality Management
(SQM), the company's offerings range from 2G, 3G, LTE, VoLTE and VoIP for MNOs and MVNOs, as well as GSM-R, ETCS and
FRMCS for railway operators, to solutions for 5G that have been in the pipeline for some time – the key to efficient monitoring
and optimization of radio networks, planning of expansions and management of SLA services during network build-up and
operation. Expandium is privately owned and headquartered in Saint-Herblain, France.
016 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionTelco Solutions
As with any product, COM5.Mobile is lation, training and support complete
of course intended for a specific pur- this range of services. "When choosing
pose - and MNOs as well as Mobile our partner, we placed great value on
Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) a mix of competence, experience and
have more than that one task to passion for innovation," explains Ge-
address in the management of their org Kieferl, Head of Telco Solutions at
networks, e. g. the area of SQM. This, MicroNova. "We are absolutely con-
in turn, requires dedicated solutions. vinced that we have found the right
For this reason, MicroNova has started company in Expandium. With the ac-
to cooperate with the French company cordingly extended solutions range,
Expandium, a provider of big data so- we can offer our customers more ser-
lutions including mobile network mo- vices from a single source. This brings
nitoring, in the beginning of 2019. The both operational and logistical advan-
aim of this cooperation is to be able tages and ultimately benefits the end
to offer users in companies more func users of the mobile networks".
tionality from a single source. Micro-
Nova addresses the areas in particular: In detail, the COM5.AddOn offering
launched by MicroNova is divided into
» Quality Monitoring the areas SQM, CEM and Business In-
» Trouble Shooting telligence (BI) based on the Expandium
» Optimisation portfolio. With the integrated, tailor-
» Roaming and Fleet Monitoring made deployment and the inclusion
» Customer Service and Customer of an own Big Data platform, M(V)NOs
Care as well as can further increase the quality of their
» Customer Experience Management offer in the direction of Northbound
(CEM) Interface (NBI). The technological ba-
sis is formed by non-intrusive passive
With Telefónica Germany and Voda- With this extended portfolio, "probes" (eProbes), which collect data
fone Germany, two of the world's top icroNova now offers mobile net-
M directly at transmitting and receiving
five mobile network operators in Ger- work operators packages consis- facilities, and high-performance ser-
many have been successfully relying ting of the four components COM5. vers, which enable real-time monito-
on MicroNova's COM5.Mobile solu- Mobile (RAN planning and configu- ring around the clock on almost all
tions for radio access network (RAN) ration), COM5.Rail (focus on GSM- network protocols.
management for many years. Be it R), COM5.AddOn (expansion) and
vendor-neutral and cross-technology COM5.Projects (individualised pro-
offerings for network expansion and ject development and management Interfaces and Protocols
optimization, planning and configu- by MicroNova). With that expanded With COM5.AddOn, M(V)NOs can
ration of the RAN, Network Function base, MicroNova is also increasingly collect and process data, combining
Virtualization (NFV) or 5G - the exis- addressing international mobile proven and new methods such as
ting portfolio of the Telco Solutions di- communications markets, with local stream processing, machine learning,
vision already included a wide range of presences already planned. pattern recognition and parallel pro-
functionalities. In addition, MicroNova cessing. The information is provided
continuously optimizes and expands via a comprehensive and easy-to-use
COM5.AddOn: Value added for
COM5.Mobile in close coordination dashboard. Data traffic is captured
with the above-mentioned customers. M(V)NOs and their customers 24/7 in real time on E1, STM and Ether-
With this existing set, Mobile Network MicroNova and Expandium now net connections, whether copper or
Operators (MNOs) around the globe offer joint solutions for efficient mo- optical. Expandium's eProbes are com-
can plan and configure their RANs ef- nitoring and optimization of wireless patible with all signaling interfaces and
ficiently and effectively now and in the networks, planning of extensions and protocols used in 2G, 3G, LTE, VoLTE,
future. management of SLA services. Instal- VoIP and VoWiFi networks.
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 017Telco Solutions
Once all definitions and the 5G With CEM, it is possible to use a user-
path are final, solutions will be avail oriented platform with which MNOs
able soon after that. "As usual, we will as well as MVNOs can support the im
work solidly to have the right solution provement of customer satisfaction. It
at the right time. If you start before includes solutions for handling custo-
the standards are finalized, you risk mer complaints, closely monitoring the
semi-finished solutions that require use of roaming partnerships and their
changes. That is not our policy. We revenues, uncovering fraud potential
are ready as soon as 5G is really ready. and much more. The bottom line is a
Competence, concepts and roadmaps clear picture of the true usability and
are there," explains Stefan Gröger, who quality of the network. Advanced so-
is responsible for business develop- lutions make it possible to collect, pro-
„The offerings of our two ment in the Telco Solutions division at cess and analyze almost all data from
companies complement MicroNova and, together with Georg an operator's network in a legally com-
each other very well – Kieferl, also for the partnership with pliant manner. This platform can also
they give mobile network Expandium. "By the way, this also ap- feed and/or collect data from or for
plies to related solutions around the third-party solutions.
operators access to a Internet Protocol IPv6. It is now picking
portfolio that offers them up speed, but is still a long way from
quantifiable added value. overtaking IPv4." Conclusion
Getting both the smooth For many years, MicroNova has pro-
operation of the network vided mobile operators with a reliable
network planning and configuration
and the supporting ser Possible applications tool in the form of COM5.Mobile; this
vices for this very oper With this technology stack, MNOs as will continue, with ongoing enhance-
ation from a single source well as MVNOs can cover more than ment and improvement with regard to
is certainly a great ad just activities in the actual network upcoming technologies as 5G or those
vantage for users. We are operation. In the SQM environment, for looming on the horizon like 6G. With
example, it can be used for accounting COM5.AddOn MicroNova extends this
absolutely convinced that including billing. Furthermore, scen portfolio now. Thus, M(V)NOs get a
MicroNova is the right arios could also be set up for Customer much wider range of possibilities for
partner for Expandium Relationship Management (CRM), in an efficient operation. Satisfied cus-
because of its long track which the data is processed into valu- tomers and more profits are the con-
record with mobile net able information: The goal in each case comitant opportunities – and the ba-
is to better understand the customers sis for investments in the technology
work companies opera and thus identify and strengthen the generation.
ting in Germany.“ most profitable areas – right through
– Gilles Henin, to marketing. In this way, M(V)NOs can
Senior Channel Manager directly influence their earnings in a po-
Expandium sitive manner. Technologically, the inte-
gration of all structured data as well as
data from CRM, billing, etc. forms the
basis for this, whereby a special inter-
face for different sources is used.
018 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionTelco Solutions
Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO)
MVNOs are providers of mobile communications services for end customers who
have a core network, but not their own radio network. The core network includes
a so-called home location register (HLR) as well as a corresponding facility for
switching voice and/or data connections – usually a gateway mobile switching
center (GMSC). As a rule, interconnection takes place with a network operator
other than MNO, whose radio network is used, whereby access to several MNOs
is possible as well.
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 019Telco Solutions
Can’t Germany Operate
Mobile Communications
Networks?
Spoiler alert: Of course we can. Still, there is potential for
optimization in certain areas – but the providers are by far
not the only ones to blame for that.
TEXT: Georg Kieferl PICTURE: © Det-anan / Shutterstock.com
The media landscape in Germany initiatives, citing design issues. And However, given the fact that current
may cause frowns: mobile communi- many residents are concerned about mobile radio networks consist mainly
cations overall was a tragedy; there health risks. However, according to of free-standing masts and instal-
were too many dead spots as well the Federal Pollution Control Act, the lations on building roofs, it is hard
in the countryside as in the railway sites are not even subject to approval to see how anyone could serious-
system, the stability would be in- so long as the specified limit values ly believe that this number of base
adequate; and of course the prices are maintained. stations is politically feasible. That is
were too high when compared with why it is worth differentiating among
other countries. As clear as it may be 5G technologies. The sites employ-
Can 5G technology close
that there is room for improvement ing the latest 5G technology distin-
in the mobile network as a whole – the gaps? guish themselves not only through
especially when it comes to network In the political arena, the further their greater performance capability
availability – in order to deal with this expansion of the mobile communica- and density but also through their
situation constructively, it is neces tion network is being discussed, not improved aesthetics. In particular,
sary to carry out a factual analysis so however always competently. Some through the further development of
that this basic prerequisite for eco- politicians are calling for all the gaps, small-cell network architecture, mo-
nomic success can be met. i.e. dead spots, to be closed, in the bile phone units already fit within
course of the implementation of 5G city streetlamps.
In order for the further expansion technology. But even without a di
of the mobile communication net- ploma in physics or telecommunica-
work to take place, more and more tions engineering, one can tell that The Real Goal of 5G
transmission masts must be installed, this is not technically possible for the When it comes to technology, 5G
including ones near residential areas. current frequency spectrum intended opens up a lot of possibilities, but
According to estimates, up to 90,000 for 5G, since the range of a radio what is its real goal? Mobile appli-
additional base stations will be re tower is only about one kilometer.
cations and services are playing an
quired to improve network avail Without taking into account unin- increasingly important role in digi
ability in the coming years. In general, habited or unfrequented areas, esti tization - and the successor gene-
these antenna-dotted sites are not mates based on a previous definition ration of LTE is the technology that
particularly aesthetically p leasing. of 5G show that some 850,000 base will make this quantum leap pos-
For this reason, many communi- stations would need to be built in sible. But it is clear that its primary
ties try to block the construction of order to establish network coverage benefit lies not in its ability to im-
transmission masts through citizens’ over the entire area of Germany. prove the quality of telephony or
020 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionTelco Solutions
streaming of films on smartphones sive 5G for their networked produc- first 5G networks selectively during
through higher bandwidth, but in its tion facilities? So: Do we really need the 2014 Olympic Games to deploy
power to support many devices per a 5G wireless landscape anyway? autonomous buses and ensure video
cell and its low latency. This makes Both alternative approaches show transmissions. This and other exam
it ideal for supplying data-intensive that 5G should not be looked upon ples, especially those coming from
hotspots. For these reasons, the first as the panacea for all types of ap- China, have little to do with the actu-
applications for 5G networks will be plications. The great variety of re- al 5G standard, which will, according
in these kinds of scenarios. Examples quirements means that there will be, to expectations, be adopted in 2019.
include large company sites; produc- in the initial stages, no universal 5G In terms of frequency allocation,
tion facilities; logistics facilities, such network, no “5G for all”, so to speak. too, we in Germany are all but neck
as ports or freight stations; football Rather, it will be that individual, spe- and neck with other countries who
stadiums, etc... cial networks tailored for dedicated are supposedly clearly ahead: In the
applications will become the norm. USA, the first spectra were launched
But also applications in the area The existing locations will be gradu- in 2018; Japan and South Korea are
of virtual reality and augmented re- ally equipped with new 5G technolo- planning 5G test runs for this year,
ality are viable with 5G technology. gy at the hotspots and connected via and China for 2020. The leading
The networking of markets, sectors, fiber optics. network equipment manufacturers
industries and society will continue (Huawei, Nokia and Ericsson) have
to change: If people are in the cen- also promised the first product re-
ter of things today, "things" will be in Adequate policies are required leases for the current year.
the center in the future. Terms such So that our German mobile net-
as industry 4.0, Machine-to-Machine works can provide the required na
communication (M2M) or the Inter- tionwide infrastructure, new sites The timing is important
net of Things (IoT) describe just this and especially adequate frequency 5G projects are already underway
sort of networking of machines and spectra will be required. The appro- and being tested, but that is also true
devices of all kinds. val of frequencies in the MHz range in Germany. 5G Berlin e.V. (registe-
would take nothing more than the red association) is a partnership of
requisite political will, but it will in research and industry to promote in-
Are there serious alternatives
the end provide the foundation for novation in the next generation com-
to 5G? better ranges. Our state would do munications network. The aim is both
While 5G and IoT may be on well to establish better framework to test the technologies and to pro-
everyone's lips these days, alterna- requirements instead of filling the mote new applications. The initiative
tives do exist for the "things" to be budget gaps with proceeds from is dedicated to the development of
networked: via license-free frequen- auctions; this would ultimately en the 5G test field and the 5G center.
cy bands."LoRa" (derived from "Long able it to generate revenue through As a founding member, MicroNova
Range"), for example, is a very cost- greater economic activity. The accor- plays a central role, and in 2019 the
effective technology with which IoT ding policies must, of course, provide first 5G networks will be rolled out to
devices can be connected wirelessly network operators with guide lines "our" customers. It has already been
over long distances. This allows ener- for network expansion, but at the made clear that Germany has no
gy companies or municipal utilities, same time give them enough room significant set of backorders. There is
for example, to integrate their smart for the necessary investments. A wise also a lack of end devices and busi-
meters cost-effectively into their policy is characterized by targeted ness models that enable mobile pro-
own networks without the need for investment in the short term, which viders to generate revenues, but 5G
a traditional mobile communications in the long term compensates for the must be made worthwhile, especially
provider. With the announcement initial revenue shortfalls many times if the state wants to receive a consi-
of every new mobile communica- over through the resulting economic derable share of the proceeds. Blind
tions standard comes a prediction boom. activism, in contrast, can end badly,
announcing the "end of Wi-Fi", even because at the end of the day the
though it has already established A realistic look at other industria- fact is that 5G standards have not
itself as a networking standard in lized countries shows that they are yet been fully adopted – timing is in-
production facilities. Wi-Fi uses an not really much further along when it deed important. And whoever takes
unlicensed spectrum that is available comes to similar projects. Of course, two steps at once just might stumble
to everyone free of charge, so why there are well-publicized exceptions. on his way.
should companies choose the expen- For example, South Korea used the
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 021Telco Solutions
Review:
Telco Solutions UserDay
With the introduction of 5G, the German mobile
communications market is facing major challenges.
That’s why MicroNova invited telco experts to the
first COM5.Mobile UserDay in November 2018.
TEXT: Editorial Staff PICTURE: © MicroNova
On November 6 and 7, 2018, of highstreet technologies GmbH, he renamed to the meanwhile established
icroNova welcomed team members
M then presented the path to software- COM5.Mobile. He also presented the
of Telefonica Germany GmbH & Co. defined networks (SDN) and network roadmap for the product as well as the
KG, Vodafone Germany GmbH, and functions virtualization (NFV) as part COM5.Rail product, which is pitched
partner firms EANTC AG and high- of 5G architecture. This topic was com- towards GSM-R, as well as COM5.
street technologies GmbH to the Vier- plemented by the presentation from AddOns and COM5.Projects (see pa-
kirchen Business Park. In addition to Gabriele Schenk, Managing Director of ges 16 ff. of this issue).
networking and sharing experience EANTC AG about 5G entering the mar-
among users, the event focused on ket. A detailed report on cooperation
COM5.Mobile in use at
the presentation of the COM5 product between EANTC and MicroNova in the
family. An outlook on 5G development context of Mobile Service Testing was
Vodafone and Telefónica
and the roadmap for COM5.Mobile published in issue 2-2018 of InNOVA- The early afternoon was particularly
was given in cooperation with EANTC tion. exciting: Eric Cyrener, Group Lea-
and highstreet technologies. der Radio Configuration & Spectrum
Before the lunch break, Georg Kie- (TLOR) at Vodafone GmbH, and then
ferl, Division Manager Telco Solutions, Heike Manshon, OSS Design, with Ge-
After the guests were welcomed by together with Ingo Bauer, informed orgi Dikov, Lead OSS Architect, both
the MicroNova board members, Ingo attendees about MicroNova’s product at Telefónica Germany GmbH & Co.
Bauer, Head of Product Manage- strategy and marketing concept. At KG, gave insights into how MicroNova
ment Telco Solutions, introduced the the same time, guests also got to know solutions work for their respective em-
agenda for the two-day event. To- that the Common Planning & Confi- ployers. Despite the direct competition
gether with Alfons Mittermaier, CEO guration Manager (CPCM) was being between the two companies, there
022 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionTelco Solutions
was at all times a very open and con- Gut Häusern, where the cuisine at the to optimize it accordingly. At the same
structive dialog about challenges and “Alte Gutsscheune” was just as capti- time, a roundtable was held between
questions in dealing with the planning, vating as the location – networking in department and group heads and pro-
optimization, and configuration of the the right environment is simply more ject managers from Telefónica, Voda-
network. COM5.Mobile being used by enjoyment. fone and MicroNova management.
both companies and the open and co-
operative atmosphere of the UserDay MicroNova’s first UserDay for Telco
Further development with
helped all parties to learn and benefit Solutions ended with a presentation
from each other – a prime example of
user feedback on the workshop results. This allowed
the added value of such an event. The first day showed how well cross- all attendees to benefit from the fin-
company cooperation worked at the dings and draw their own conclusions.
After Ingo Bauer had had the chance UserDay, an impression confirmed One thing is certain, it won’t have been
to rest his voice a little, he was ready during day two. Two moderated work- the last event of this kind – participants
for his demo of the Integration Wi- shops on the topic “COM5.Mobile eagerly asked for another. So UserDay
zard, which he hosted together with from the user’s point of view” took 2019 has already been penciled in on
Michael Mai, the Development Head place in mixed teams. There were two the calendar. After all, there are vital
for Telco Solutions at MicroNova. Tho- groups each: one focused on usability tasks and major goals for the mobile
mas Reiner, Project Manager Telco in the client environment and the other communications industry as well this
Solutions, closed the first day of User- on parameter lists. Feedback from the year with the introduction of 5G.
Day with more details on COM5.Rail. participants gives MicroNova the op-
Afterwards all participants attended a portunity to further develop COM5.
get-together and dinner in the nearby Mobile according to user needs and
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 023IT Management
ManageEngine:
Partner Meeting 2019
New products and developments, future cooperation
and exchange: these topics took center stage at the
“ManageEngine Partner Conference 2019”.
Also present: the MicroNova team.
TEXT: Editorial Staff PHOTOS: © ManageEngine
102 participants from 48 partners Management at MicroNova, and three is that the face-to-face exchange has
from 42 countries traveled to Chennai, employees from Sales, Consulting and already resulted in a possible solution
India, in January for ManageEngine’s Marketing attended numerous pro- for current issues raised by German
Partner Conference. The city in the duct training sessions and learned ManageEngine users.
southeast of the country, home to more about planned product innova-
eight million, is India’s fourth largest tions and enhancements.
conurbation and, along with Banga- Face-to-face exchange
lore and Hyderabad, one of the most Following its partners’ wishes, This example again shows the im-
important regions for software de- anageEngine had planned even
M portance of direct and face-to-face
velopers. ZOHO Corp., vendor of the more time this year for individual exchange between developer and
ManageEngine products, also has its meetings with product managers and distributor, allowing practicable solu-
development center there. engineers – an opportunity that the tions for users to be found quickly and
MicroNova team naturally took advan- smoothly. Against this background, it
This year’s global partner meeting tage of: for example, during a mee- is hardly surprising that this networ-
was held on the company’s spacious ting with the ServiceDesk Plus team, king with ManageEngine staff and
campus, where MicroNova was of numerous suggestions and improve- partners from other countries was
course in attendance. For four days, ments were passed on from custo- once again one of the most important
Alexander Fillips, Head of Enterprise mers. One particularly pleasing aspect functions of this year’s partner event.
A total of 102 participants from 48 partners traveled from 42 countries to the “ManageEngine
1 Partner Conference 2019” in Chennai, India.
024 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionIT Management
The presentation by our consultant Christian Schneegans, who presented a large customer project
2 at the partner meeting, was met with great interest.
Award for outstanding growth
Talks continued at this year’s Partner
Awards ceremony, which was followed
by a party. At the reception, the Micro-
Nova team received an award for out-
standing growth and revenue in 2018.
Conclusion
For the MicroNova ManageEngine
team, the four days were worthwhile
despite the long, exhausting journey:
the numerous new suggestions and
considerable amount of information
will help our consultants and techni
cians provide better advice and sup-
port to German-speaking users of
ManageEngine products and potential
customers.
ManageEngine honored
3 MicroNova with an
award for its outstanding sales
success in 2018.
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 025IT Management
Artificial Intelligence
in the IT Service Desk
Chatbots, virtual assistants and predicting IT problems:
artificial intelligence offers a number of opportunities for
IT departments. A white paper by ManageEngine looks at
deployment scenarios and the right preparation.
TEXT: Editorial Staff PICTURE: © VAlex / Shutterstock.com
Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to telligence” Gartner expects that by According to ManageEngine, these
penetrate almost all industries and 2022 around 40 percent of employees tasks can be divided into three cate-
business areas in the coming years, a in a customer-facing role and staff in gories: intelligent automation, strate-
fact that basically all industry experts public authorities will be consulting a gic insights, and predictive analytics.
agree on. IT Service Management virtual AI helper to support decisions For example, the assignment of help-
(ITSM) is no exception, because the or processes – mechanisms that can desk tickets could be significantly im-
use of appropriate technologies pro- also be transferred to internal service proved: instead of using static rules for
mises above all to relieve the burden providers such as an IT department. ticket routing, AI technologies such as
of repetitive routine tasks and deliver Consequently, Gartner considers that Machine Learning (ML) would be able
a better user experience – so valuable chatbots could also handle customer to create categorization models based
and scarce “admin time” is (finally) contact in the service desk segment. on historical data. By comparing these
freed up for more important tasks. models with live data, they would be-
However, AI is not the first promising come more accurate over time. As a
technology to be attested as having Three categories of tasks result, such systems could ultimately
the potential to fundamentally change MicroNova partner and ITSM soft- distribute tickets more efficiently than
ITSM. Since previous hopeful candi- ware provider ManageEngine comes manual categorizations or rule-based
dates have in retrospect proved to be to a similar conclusion in its latest automation.
mostly short-lived trends, the question white paper “The AI advantage: Use
is obvious: can AI really make ITSM cases and scenarios on how AI will re- With regard to strategic IT planning
simpler and more efficient? define the way IT service desks work”: or predicting IT problems, AI-based
AI might actually change IT service models would also be able to provide
Industry experts such as the analysts desks. This requires the IT service desk insights that could otherwise – if at all
from Gartner believe in the massi- to take on tasks that humans can only – only be gained with a great deal of
ve potential of AI. For example, in its perform with much effort or which hu- effort and know-how. Suitably trained
study “Predictions 2018: Artificial In- mans would rather not do. AI could, for example, identify the ideal
026 // 01-19 // InNOVAtionIT Management
Conclusion
ting a new ticket, requests for new The first AI applications are currently
hardware or software, or even pass- being deployed in the real world and
word resets. However, in order for are having to be “trained” with a great
the virtual assistants to develop into a deal of effort. Therefore, at the mo-
noticeable relief for technicians when ment they are more suited to special
it comes to simple queries – and even- fields. According to ManageEngine, it
tually become the first point of contact will probably still be some time be
between users and the helpdesk – they fore AI significantly changes the work
need two things: access to as much of IT departments. However, due to
data as possible and time to learn. the huge potential of AI-based ap-
plications, IT departments should use
the time to prepare and properly do-
AIs are only as good as
cument all requirements, issues, and
their database changes today. It is also advisable to
AI algorithms and applications are maintain an accurate IT service desk
based on available, documented database and establish a regularly
knowledge and historical data. This updated knowledge database. This
means that AI is only as effective as means that IT teams will be optimally
the analyzable information on which prepared to really benefit from the ad-
time window for rolling out patches or it is based. For ITSM this means that vantages of AI in ITSM.
provide assistance for planning and well-documented problem solutions,
implementing changes. Correlations workarounds, knowledge base articles,
between incidents that point to a com- and well-maintained historical data
mon problem could also be identified. must be available for AI-based models.
Another possible function could be For example, an AI-based categori
the detection of anomalies by high- zation or prioritization model requires
lighting unusual, recurring incidents. A a database that has been created and
predictive analysis to identify requests maintained according to the above cri-
that could violate a service level ag- teria; this database must also contain
reement is another possibility. All the- important parameters such as request
se functions are expected to find their type, service level, impact, urgency
way into the IT service desk over the and location.
White Paper
next few years.
In addition, AI-based models cannot „The AI advantage: Use cases
be applied in all cases. A particular and scenarios on how AI will re-
Chatbots: first AI applications define the way IT service desks
model may work for one company, but
in practical use not for another. Categorization and work“
Some companies are already using prioritization models are trained with a The complete white paper (in
the first AI-based applications in specific dataset and only work for the German) with further application
practice in the form of chatbots and company from which the information scenarios can be downloaded free
virtual support assistants: context- originates. The models also require of charge from:
specific chatbots, for example, already live data in order to learn continuous- www.manageengine.de/ki-im-
support users during simple IT service ly. This is the only way to make them servicedesk
desk operations. These include crea- more accurate and efficient over time.
InNOVAtion // 01-19 // 027You can also read
