Tuesday 26 May, 2026
This document contains a set of guidelines for the tests that should be performed in the course of Field Test and Lab Test carried out on a Terminal Device.
The test guidelines are applicable for Single SIM device or a Multi-SIM device with only one active subscription. For Multi-SIM devices please refer to TS.42
Field Tests are tests undertaken during later phases of the terminal development against a real live deployed network (i.e. in the field) to prove of a feature or technology.
Lab Tests are tests undertaken during later phases of the terminal development against laboratory based network components, representative of a real deployed network, to prove a feature or technology.
Field Tests are required to ensure confidence in the performance of Terminal Devices in the operational network environment. Lab Tests usually complement Field Tests for scenarios which cannot be easily executed in a live network.
Field Tests have proven to be a valuable test tool, which exercise terminals under live conditions. Field Tests do address the terminal behaviour in a dynamic environment, which cannot be achieved by simulator tests under laboratory conditions.
Additionally, experience has shown that comparable results are achieved in multiple network(s) infrastructures.
Last, but not least, Field Tests do give an insight into customer experience/satisfaction which has been, and will be, the main driver for performing Field Tests. This also implies that certain equipment/configuration requirements can be applicable to perform Field Tests.
In order to support the development of Terminal Devices to the maximum extent possible, the GSMA Terminal Steering Group (TSG) has put considerable effort in applying the experience and knowledge of the operator community into a set of Device Field and Lab Test Guidelines i.e. this document. Due to a continuous stream of innovations, which includes new standards, features and test experiences, this document shall be a living document.
Although it is the Terminal Manufacturer’s responsibility to define their own Field Test procedures, TSG do believe that the Device Field and Lab Test Guidelines will assist them to achieve an operational process.
It is assumed that Field Tests shall be performed without direct support from the network operator. However, TSG and its operator delegates do offer their assistance, if required by any Manufacturer in terms of drafting Field and/or Lab Tests, providing network specific information, etc.
In order to provide visibility on the applicability, extent and the result of Field and/or Lab Tests conducted on a Terminal Device, Annex G has been included in this document.
