Use this article when you need to identify the correct network standard, frequency band, or channel settings before configuring a PCTEL scanner.
The correct settings depend on the wireless technology, region, carrier/network, and test objective.
Common network standards include:
- LTE
- 5G NR
- UMTS / WCDMA
- GSM
- P25
- LMR
- Public safety bands
- Wi-Fi, if applicable to the test setup
To determine the correct network standard and frequency band, check one or more of the following sources:
- Project test plan
- Customer-provided test requirements
- Carrier or network operator requirements
- Site survey documentation
- FCC license or regulatory frequency assignment
- Internal engineering test procedure
- Known channel plan or band plan
- Device or system documentation
Before setting up the scanner, confirm:
- Network standard or technology being tested
- Frequency band
- Start and stop frequency, if using blind scan
- Channel list, if using channel-based scan
- Bandwidth
- Antenna type
- Test location
- Expected signal source
If you are unsure which standard or band applies, provide the following information to PCTEL Technical Support:
- Scanner model
- Serial number
- Software version
- Country or region
- Network technology being tested
- Frequency range, if known
- Test objective
- Screenshot of the scan setup
Do not guess frequency settings if the network standard or band is unknown. Incorrect band, bandwidth, or channel settings may cause missing channels, invalid scan setup, or inaccurate results.