1

CHAPTER 1

VARIOUS
COMMUNICATION
TECHNOLOGIES









1.1 Introduction


2

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pOuWformV WoGu\V GSM, GPRS, EDGE & 3GM.

It is the basis of a powerful family of platforms for the future - providing a direct link into
next generation solutions including GPRS (General Packet Radio Services) EDGE (Enhanced
Data for GSM Evolution) and 3GM.

GSM's unrivalled success can be attributed to many factors, including the unparalleled
co-operation and support between all those supplying, running and exploiting the platform. It
is based upon a true end-to-end solution, from infrastructure and services to handsets and
billing systems.

GSM is a standard that embraces all areas of technology, resulting in global, seamless
wireless services for all its customers. It's all part of the Wireless Evolution.



















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3

1.2 What is GSM?

GSM is a standard for a Global System for Mobile communications.GSM, a mobile
phone system based on multiple radio cells (cellular mobile phone network). It has been
agreed upon and is completed by ETSI, the European Telecommunications Standards
Institute.

Two main standards are followed:
1. GSM 900 (global system for mobile communications in the 900 MHz band)
2. DCS 1800 (digital cellular system for the 1800 MHz band)

GSM 900 is a designed for extensive radio coverage even in rural areas. DCS 1800 is
designed for radio coverage in areas with very high subscriber density.

GSM is a global standard, GSM 900 being used in most European, Asian and pacific
countries, GSM 1800 being used in the same place to increase the capacity of the system, and
GSM 1900 being used primarily in the US.

Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) is a set of ETSI standards specifying
the infrastructure for a digital cellular service. The standard is used in approx. 85 countries in
the world including such locations as Europe, Japan and Australia
1
.

The international designation of a public mobile radio network is PLMN (public land
mobile network), as opposed to the PSTN (public switched telephone network).

Several PLMN, which are designed on the basis of same standards, are compatible to
each other. Therefore, a mobile subscriber can use the GSM/DCS specific mobile equipment
and services in these compatible networks.

GSM is a cellular network, which means that mobile phones connect to it by searching for
cells in the immediate vicinity. There are five different cell sizes in a GSM network
macro, micro, pico,femto and umbrella cells. The coverage area of each cell varies according
to the implementation environment. Macro cells can be regarded as cells where thebase
station antenna is installed on a mast or a building above average roof top level. Micro cells
are cells whose antenna height is under average roof top level; they are typically used in
urban areas. Picocells are small cells whose coverage diameter is a few dozen metres; they
are mainly used indoors. Femtocells are cells designed for use in residential or small business
environments and connect to the service providers network via a broadband internet
connection. Umbrella cells are used to cover shadowed regions of smaller cells and fill in
gaps in coverage between those cells.




4

1.3 What is GPRS?

The General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is a new non-voice value added service that
allows information to be sent and received across a mobile telephone network. It supplements
today's Circuit Switched Data and Short Message Service. GPRS is NOT related to GPS (the
Global Positioning System), a similar acronym that is often used in mobile contexts.

General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) enabled
networks offer 'always-on', higher capacity, Internet-
based content and packet-based data services. This
enables services such as color Internet browsing, e-
mail on the move, powerful visual communications,
multimedia messages and location-based services.

GPRS is used to implement high-speed data
transmission between the MS and some other party.
GPRS utilizes multiple BTSs in the same BSS. The MS sends different packets to different
BTSs, which are reconstructed at the SGSN. This enables the MS to use a higher
transmission speed than one transmission channel can handle.

GPRS facilitates several new applications that have not previously been available over
GSM networks due to the limitations in speed of Circuit Switched Data (9.6 kbps) and
message length of the Short Message Service (160 characters). GPRS will fully enable the
Internet applications you are used to on your desktop from web browsing to chat over the
mobile network. Other new applications for GPRS, profiled later, include file transfer and
home automation- the ability to remotely access and control in-house appliances and
machines.

It should be noted right that the General Packet Radio Service is not only a service
designed to be deployed on mobile networks that are based on the GSM digital mobile phone
standard. The IS-136 Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) standard, popular in North and
South America, will also support GPRS. This follows an agreement to follow the same
evolution path towards third generation mobile phone networks concluded in early 1999 by
the industry associations that support these two network types.

GPRS is a best-effort service, implying variable throughput and latency that depend on
the number of other users sharing the service concurrently, as opposed to circuit switching,
where a certain quality of service (QoS) is guaranteed during the connection. In 2G systems,
GPRS provides data rates of 56-114 Kbit/second. 2G cellular technology combined with
GPRS is sometimes described as 2.5G, that is, a technology between the second (2G) and
third (3G) generations of mobile telephony.



5

1.4 What is EDGE?

Further enhancements in data capability over the core GSM network will be provided
with the introduction of Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution - known as EDGE*. This
will achieve the delivery of advanced mobile services such as the downloading of video and
music clips, full multimedia messaging, high-speed color Internet access and e-mail on the
move.

EDGE (or Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution) is a 3G technology that delivers
broadband-like data speeds to mobile devices. It allows
consumers to connect to the Internet and send and receive
data, including digital images, web pages and photographs,
three times faster than possible with an ordinary
GSM/GPRS network. EDGE enables GSM operators to
offer higher-speed mobile-data access, serve more mobile-
data customers, and free up GSM network capacity to
accommodate additional voice traffic.

The technology EDGE has been designed to increase GPRS on-air data rates 2.5 to 3
times while meeting essentially the same bandwidth occupancy as the original 0.3-GMSK
signals.EDGE technology also enables each base station transceiver to carry more voice
and/or data traffic.

EDGE/EGPRS is implemented as a bolt-on enhancement for 2.5G GSM/GPRS networks,
making it easier for existing GSM carriers to upgrade to it. EDGE is a superset to GPRS and
can function on any network with GPRS deployed on it, provided the carrier implements the
necessary upgrade.

EDGE requires no hardware or software changes to be made in GSM core networks. EDGE-
compatible transceiver units must be installed and the base station subsystem needs to be
upgraded to support EDGE. If the operator already has this in place, which is often the case
today, the network can be upgraded to EDGE by activating an optional software feature.
Today EDGE is supported by all major chip vendors for both GSM and WCDMA/HSPA.
Through the introduction of sophisticated methods of coding and transmitting data, EDGE
delivers higher bit-rates per radio channel, resulting in a threefold increase in capacity and
performance compared with an ordinary GSM/GPRS connection. EDGE can be used for
any packet switched application, such as an Internet connection.
Evolved EDGE continues in Release 7 of the 3GPP standard providing reduced latency and
more than doubled performance e.g. to complement High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA).
Peak bit-rates of up to 1Mbit/s and typical bit-rates of 400kbit/s can be expected.


6

1.5 What is 3GM?

3GM is a third generation mobile cellular technology for networks based on
the GSM standard. Developed by the 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), UMTS is a
component of the International Telecommunications Union IMT-2000 standard set and
compares with the cdma2000 standard set for networks based on the
competing cdmaOne technology. UMTS employs wideband code division multiple access
(W-CDMA) radio access technology to offer greater spectral efficiency and bandwidth to
mobile network operators. UMTS specifies a complete network system, covering the radio
access network (UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network, or UTRAN), thecore
network (Mobile Application Part, or MAP) and the authentication of users via SIM cards
(Subscriber Identity Module).

3GM is the latest addition to the GSM family. 3GM is about having third generation
mobile multimedia services available globally. 3GM focuses on visionary communications,
in more ways than one. It's about the new visual ways in which people will communicate and
the unique vision of the GSM community, which has always focused on the future needs of
our customers.

The technology on which 3GM services will be delivered is built around a core GSM
network with a Wideband-CDMA (W-CDMA) air
interface, in some markets, EDGE air interfaces,
which has been developed as an open standard by
operators in conjunction with the 3GPP standards
development organization. Allocated 3G spectrum in
the 2GHz band selected 3GM as the best technology
to deliver the optimum combination of speed,
capacity and capability in a broadband wireless
world.No other standard is as open as 3GM.


It offers the flexible combination of voice and data performance and capacity delivered
by 3GM underpinned by Wideband-CDMA. No other standard is as open as 3GM. Already
over 85% of the world's network operators have chosen 3GM'sunderlying technology
platform to deliver their third generation services. 3GMis a key element of GSM-The
Wireless Evolution.






7






CHAPTER 2

GLOBAL SYSTEM FOR
MOBILE
COMMUNICATION













8

2.1 History

The development and success of GSM has been an outstanding example of international
enterprise in action. Operators, governments and manufacturers have come together in a
remarkable venture that has created a new, dynamic and genuinely global
telecommunications market. Its an example of co-operation that has affected and will
continue to affect, the lives of millions both socially and economically.

2.1.1The Beginning

The scenario of mobile phones in the 1980s can be summed up quite beautifully by
considering the case of a car that race through the autobahns of GERMANY but stops dead
when it crosses the border and enters FRANCE.

As the business was becoming increasingly international the cutting edge of the
communication industry focused on exclusively local cellular solutions. And none of these
was remotely compatible with other. NMT 450 in the Nordic and Benelux countries. TACS
in the UK and C-NETZ in Germany.Radiocom 2000 in France and RTMI/RTMS in Italy. All
these networks enabled you to call the office if you were in your own home, but not if you
were with a client in another country.

Each country developed its own system, which was incompatible with everyone else's in
equipment and operation. This was an undesirable situation, because not only was the mobile
equipment limited to operation within national boundaries, which in a unified Europe were
increasingly unimportant, but there was a very limited market for each type of equipment, so
economies of scale, and the subsequent savings, could not be realized.

It was clear that there would be an escalating demand for a technology that facilitated
flexible and reliable mobile communication. But there was a big disadvantage, which
threatened to affect the first generation mobile networks. It was the problem of capacity or
the lack of it. It was this that leads to the decline of the entire analog networks in the early
1990s; they collapsed under the pressure of demand.

It also became clear to industry watchers that localized solutions to the development of
mobile communications did not make ling-term economic sense. Given the daunting R&D
costs facing operators and manufacturers, it was essential to be able to exploit theeconomies
of scale inherent in global market penetration. Home market revenue simply wouldnt justify
sustained programs of investment.

In the alphabet soup that is the communications industry, the CEPT merits a very special
place in history. The Europeans realized this early on, and in 1982 the Conference of
European Posts and



9


Telegraphs (CEPT) formed a study group called the GROUPE SPCIAL MOBILE
(GSM) to study and develop a pan-European public land mobile system. Its objective was to
develop the specification for a pan-European mobile communications network capable of
supporting the many millions of subscribers likely to turn to mobile communications in the
years ahead. The proposed system had to meet certain criteria:

y Good subjective speech quality,
y Low terminal and service cost,
y Support for international roaming,
y Ability to support handhold terminals,
y Support for range of new services and facilities,
y Spectral efficiency, and
y ISDN compatibility.

From the start, the GSM had it in mind that the new standard was likely to employ digital
rather than analogue technology and operate in the 900MHz frequency band. Digital
technology offered an attractive combination of performance and spectral efficiency. In other
words, it would provide high quality transmission and enable more callers simultaneously to
use the limited radio band available. In addition, such a system would allow the development
of advanced features like speech security and data communications.

By going digital it would also be possible to employ the VLSI technology. It would have
severe implications both for manufacturers and consumers. Handsets could be cheaper and
smaller.Finally the digital approach neatly complemented the Integrated Services Digital
Network (ISDN) which was being developed by the land line communications networks and
with which the GSM systems had to interact.

In 1989, GSM responsibility was transferred to the European Telecommunication
Standards Institute (ETSI), and phase I of the GSM specifications was published in
1990. Commercial service was started in mid1991, and by 1993 there were 36 GSM networks
in 22 countries, with 25 additional countries having already selected or considering GSM.
This is not only a European standard - South Africa, Australia, and many Middle and Far East
countries have chosen GSM. By the beginning of 1994, there were 1.3 million subscribers
worldwide. The acronym GSM now stands for Global System for Mobile
telecommunications.

GSM differs from first generation wireless systems in that it uses digital technology and
time division multiple access transmission methods. Voice is digitally encoded via a unique
encoder, which emulates the characteristics of human speech. This method of transmission
permits a very efficient data rate/information content ratio.



10

2.1.2 GSM Milestones


Year

Milestone

1982

GSM formed

1986

Field test

1987

TDMA chosen as access method

1988

Memorandum of understanding signed

1989

Validation of GSM system

1990

Pre-operation system

1991

Commercial system start-up

1992

Coverage of larger cities/airports

1993

Coverage of main roads

1995

Coverage of rural areas

Table 2.1: GSM Development


GSM (Global System for Mobile communication) is a digital mobile telephone system
that is widely used in Europe and other parts of the world. GSM uses a variation of time
division multiple access (TDMA) and is the most widely used of the three digital wireless
telephone technologies (TDMA, GSM, and CDMA). GSM digitizes and compresses data,
then sends it down a channel with two other streams of user data, each in its own time slot. It
operates at either the 900 MHz or 1800 MHz frequency band.





11

GSM is the de facto wireless telephone standard in Europe. GSM has over 120 million
users worldwide and is available in 120 countries, according to the GSM MoU Association.
Since many GSM network operators have roaming agreements with foreign operators, users
can often continue to use their mobile phones when they travel to other countries.

2.1.3 Smart and Secure

GSM is so secure and flexible with its functionalities and so easy to manipulate that
there are all sorts of uses for it that we havent even thought of yet. One of the most attractive
features of GSM is that it is a very secure network. All communications, both speech and
data, are encrypted to prevent eavesdropping. In fact, in the early stages of its development it
was found that the encryption algorithm was too powerful for certain technology export
regulators. This could have had serious implications for the global spread of GSM by limiting
the number of countries to which it could be sold. Fortunately, the MoU reacted promptly to
this threat. Alternative algorithms were developed that enabled the free dissemination of the
technology worldwide.

GSM subscribers are identified by their Subscriber Identity; Module (SIM) card. This
holds their identity number and authentication key and algorithm. While the choice of
algorithm is the responsibility off individual GSM operators, they all work closely together
through the MoU to ensure security of authentication.

2.1.4 Todays GSM

Todays GSM platform is a hugely successful wireless technology and an unprecedented
story of global achievement. In less than ten years since the first GSM network was
commercially launched, it became the worlds leading and fastest growing mobile standard,
spanning over 200 countries.

Today, GSM technology is in use by more than one in six of the worlds population and
it is estimated that at the end of Jan 2004 there were over 1 billion GSM subscribers across
more than 200 countries of the world.

The growth of GSM continues unabated with more than 160 million new customers in
the last 12 months. Since 1997, the number of GSM subscribers has increased by a staggering
10 fold. The progress hasnt stopped there. Todays GSM platform is living, growing and
evolving and already offers and expanded and feature-rich family of voice and data
enabling services.

12

2.2 GSM Specifications

y bandwidththe range of a channel's limits; the broader the bandwidth, the faster
data can be sent
y bits per second (bps)a single on-off pulse of data; eight bits are equivalent to one
byte
y frequencythe number of cycles per unit of time; frequency is measured in hertz
(Hz)
y kilo (k)kilo is the designation for 1,000; kbps represents 1,000 bits per second
y megahertz (MHz)1,000,000 hertz (cycles per second)
y milliseconds (ms)one-thousandth of a second
y watt (W)a measure of power of a transmitter

2.3 Characteristics for GSM
y Frequency bandThe frequency range specified for GSM is 1,850 to 1,990 MHz
(mobile station to base station).
y Duplex distanceThe duplex distance is 80 MHz. Duplex distance is the distance
between the uplink and downlink frequencies. A channel has two frequencies, 80
MHz apart.
y Channel separationThe separation between adjacent carrier frequencies. In GSM,
this is 200 kHz.
y ModulationModulation is the process of sending a signal by changing the
characteristics of a carrier frequency. This is done in GSM via Gaussian minimum
shift keying (GMSK).
y Transmission rateGSM is a digital system with an over-the-air bit rate of 270
kbps.
y Access methodGSM utilizes the time division multiple access (TDMA) concept.
TDMA is a technique in which several different calls may share the same carrier.
Each call is assigned a particular time slot.
y Speech coderGSM uses linear predictive coding (LPC). The purpose of LPC is to
reduce the bit rate. The LPC provides parameters for a filter that mimics the vocal
tract. The signal passes through this filter, leaving behind a residual signal. Speech is
encoded at 13 kbps.
y Dual-tone Multifrequency (DTMF)DTMF is a tone signaling scheme often used
for various control purposes via the telephone network, such as remote control of an
answering machine. GSM supports full-originating DTMF.
y Cell broadcastA variation of the short message service is the cell broadcast
facility. A message of a maximum of 93 characters can be broadcast to all mobile
subscribers in a certain geographic area. Typical applications include traffic
congestion warnings and reports on accidents.

13

2.4 GSM Frequencies

In principle the GSM system can be implemented in any frequency band. However there
are several bands where GSM terminals are, or will shortly be available. Furthermore, GSM
terminals may incorporate one or more of the GSM frequency bands listed below to facilitate
roaming on a global basis.


Frequency Range
GSM900 880 - 915 MHz paired with 925 - 960 MHz
GSM1800 1710 - 1785 MHz paired with 1805 - 1880 MHz
GSM1900 1850 - 1910 MHz paired with 1930 - 1990 MHz

In the frequency range specified for GSM-900 System mobile radio networks, 124 frequency
channels with a bandwidth of 200 KHz are available for both the uplink and downlink
direction. The uplink (mobile station to BTS) uses the frequencies between 890 MHz and 915
MHz and the downlink (BTS to mobile station) uses the frequencies between 935 MHz and
960 MHz. The duplex spacing, the spacing between the uplink and downlink channel, is 45
MHz. The E-GSM band adds 50 frequency channels and the R-GSM another 20 frequency
channels to the spectrum.

In the frequency range specified for GSM-1800 System mobile radio networks, 374
frequency channels with a bandwidth of 200 KHz are available for both the uplink and
downlink direction. The uplink uses the frequencies between 1710 MHz and 1785 MHz and
the downlink uses the frequencies between 1805 MHz and 1880 MHz. The duplex spacing is
95 MHz.

Radio frequency spectrum used:
- for P-GSM-900: 890 - 915 MHz and 935 - 960 MHz
- for E-GSM: 880 - 915 MHz and 925 - 960 MHz
- for R-GSM: 876 - 915 MHz and 921 - 960 MHz
- for GSM-1800: 1710 - 1785 MHz and 1805 - 1880 MHz.
- for GSM-1900: 1850-1910 MHz and 1930-1990 MHz.
The GSM Standards E-GSM and R-GSM bands include the primary frequencies. It depends
on the current radio frequency spectrum usage in a specific area whether the extension can be
used.




2.5 GSM Telecommunication Services

14


The ETSI Standards define the telecommunication services. With D900/D1800 the GSM
telecommunication services offered to the GSM subscriber are subdivided as follows:

y Bearer services (for data only)
y Tele-services (for voice and data)
y Supplementary services

Bearer services and tele-services are also called basic telecommunication services. The
use of GSM telecommunication services is subject to subscription. A basic subscription
permits participation in those GSM telecommunication services that are generally available.

If a GSM subscriber roams out of the entitled area there is no possibility of establishing
communication (roaming not allowed), except the use of the tele-service emergency call.


2.5.1 Bearer Services

Bearer services are telecommunication services providing the capability of transmission
of signals between access points. The bearer services describe what the network can offer
(e.g. speech, data and fax).

The bearer services are pure transport services for data. Some of the transmission modes
and rates already used in modern data networks are implemented; others are planned. The
following, already implemented, bearer services provide unrestricted information transfer
between the reference points in the mobile stations.









Fig. 2.1: Bearer Service Functions






y Data CDA (circuit duplex asynchronous) + basic PAD (packet assembler
Disassembler) access

15

y Data CDS (circuit duplex synchronous)
y PAD CDA (dedicated PAD access)
y Alternate speech/data CDA (circuit duplex asynchronous)
y Speech followed by data CDA (circuit duplex asynchronous)
y Data compression on the GSM radio interface


2.5.2 Tele-services

Teleservices are telecommunication services including terminal equipment functions,
which provide communication between users according to protocols established by
agreement between network operators. The tele-services are user end-to-end services (e.g.
emergency call and short message service).

Tele-services use both low layer and high layer functions for the control of
communication from terminal to terminal. The following tele-services have already been
realized:

y Telephony
y Emergency call
y Short message service (SMS)
y Short message cell broadcast
y Automatic facsimile (group 3)
y Alternative speech and facsimile (group 3)





Fig. 2.2: Tele-service Functions




2.5.3 Supplementary Services

Supplementary Services modify or supplement a basic telecommunication service.
Consequently, they cannot be offered to a customer as a stand-alone service. They must be

16

offered together or in association with a basic telecommunication service. The same
supplementary service may be applicable to a number of telecommunication services. Most
supplementary services are directly inherited from a fixed network, with minor modifications
(when needed) to adapt to mobility. Examples of supplementary services are calling line
identification and call waiting.

Supplementary services extend beyond the normal bearer services and teleservices (basic
telecommunication services) and can be subscribed to separately. In the following a
supplementary service is called simply service, in contrast to basic telecommunication
service.

y Number Identification Services
j Calling line identification presentation (CLIP)
j Calling line identification restriction (CLIR)
y Call Offering Services
j Call forwarding unconditional (CFU)
j Call forwarding on mobile subscriber busy (CFB)
j Call forwarding on no reply (CFNRy)
j Call forwarding on mobile subscriber not reachable (CFNRc)
y Call Completion Services
j Call hold
j Call waiting (CW)
y Multi-Party Service
y Charging Services
j Advice of charge (AOC)
y Call Restriction Services
j Barring of all outgoing calls (BAOC)
j Barring of all outgoing international calls (BOIC)
j Barring of all outgoing international calls except to home PLMN country
(BOICexHC)
j Barring of all incoming calls (BAIC)
j Barring of all incoming calls when roaming outside home PLMN country
(BIC Roam)
y Closed User Group (CUG)





17





CHAPTER 3

GSM ARCHITECTURE









3.1 GSM Architecture

A GSM network is made up of the following subsystems:

18


y The Mobile station (MS)
y The Base Station subsystem (BSS) comprising a BSC and several BTS
y The Network Switching subsystem (NSS) comprising an MSC associated registers
y Operationand Maintenance Subsystem (OMS)

The GSM architecture is shown the figure given below:




Fig. 3.1: GSM Network







3.1.1 Mobile Station

The Mobile Station consists of:


19

y Mobile equipment (ME) which the mobile phone being used and
y Subscriber identity module (SIM).
The instrument used is the mobile equipment and the subscribers data is stored in a separate
module called SIM. Therefore, ME + SIM = MS.



Fig. 3.2: Components of Mobile Station


The MS includes radio equipment and the man machine interface (MMI) that a subscribe
needs in order to access the services provided by the GSM PLMN. MS can be installed in
Vehicles or can be portable or handheld stations. The MS may include provisions for data
communication as well as voice. A mobile transmits and receives message to and from the
GSM system over the air interface to establish and continue connections through the system.

Different type of MSs can provide different type of data interfaces. To provide a common
model for describing these different MS configuration, reference configuration for MS,
similar to those defined for ISDN land stations, has been defined.

Each MS is identified by an IMEI that is permanently stored in the mobile unit. Upon
request, the MS sends this number over the signaling channel to the MSC. The IMEI can be
used to identify mobile units that are reported stolen or operating incorrectly.

Just as the IMEI identities the mobile equipment, other numbers are used to identify the
mobile subscriber. Different subscriber identities are used in different phases of call setup.




The Mobile Subscriber ISDN Number (MSISDN) is the number that the calling party
dials in order to reach the subscriber. It is used by the land network to route calls toward an


20

appropriate MSC. The international mobile subscribe identity (IMSI) is the primary function
of the subscriber within the mobile network and is permanently assigned to him. The GSM
system can also assign a Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI) to identity a mobile.
This number can be periodically changed by the system and protect the subscriber from being
identified by those attempting to monitor the radio channel.


y Functions of MS

The primary functions of MS are to transmit and receive voice and data over the air
interface of the GSM system. MS performs the signal processing function of digitizing,
encoding, error protecting, encrypting, and modulating the transmitted signals. It also
performs the inverse functions on the received signals from the BS.

In order to transmit voice and data signals, the mobile must be in synchronization with the
system so that the messages are the transmitted and received by the mobile at the correct
instant. To achieve this, the MS automatically tunes and synchronizes to the frequency and
TDMA timeslot specified by the BSC. This message is received over a dedicated timeslot
several times within a multiframe period of 51 frames. The exact synchronization will also
include adjusting the timing advance to compensate for varying distance of the mobile from
the BTS.

MS keeps the GSM network informed of its location during both national and
international roaming, even when it is inactive. This enables the System to page in its present
LA.

Finally, the MS can store and display short received alphanumeric messages on the liquid
crystal display (LCD) that is used to show call dialing and status in formation. These
messages are limited to 160 characters in length (varies from mobile to mobile).

y Power Levels

These are five different categories of mobile telephone units specified by the European
GSM system: 20W, 8W, 5W, 2W, and 0.8W. These correspond to 43-dBm, 39-dBm, 37-
dBm, 33-dBm, and 29-dBm power levels. The 20-W and 8-W units (peak power) are either
for vehicle-mounted or portable station use.

The MS power is adjustable in 2-dB steps from its nominal value down to 20mW (13
dBs). This is done automatically under remote control from the BTS, which monitors the
received power and adjusts the MS transmitter to the minimum power setting necessary for
reliable transmission.
y SIMCard



21


Fig. 3.3: Sim Card


GSM subscribers are provided with a SIM (subscriber identity module) card with its
unique identification at the very beginning of the service. By divorcing the subscriber ID
from the equipment ID, the subscriber may never own the GSM mobile equipment set. The
subscriber is identified in the system when he inserts the SIM card in the mobile equipment.
This provides an enormous amount of flexibility to the subscribers since they can now use
any GSM-specified mobile equipment. Thus with a SIM card the idea of Personalize the
equipment currently in use and the respective information used by the network (location
information) needs to be updated. The smart card SIM is portable between Mobile Equipment
(ME) units. The user only needs to take his smart card on a trip. He can then rent a ME unit at
the destination, even in another country, and insert his own SIM. Any calls he makes will be
charged to his home GSM account. Also, the GSM system will be able to reach him at the
ME unit he is currently using. This is the main advantage of GSM over CDMA.

The SIM is a removable, the size of a credit card, and contains an integrated circuit chip
with a microprocessor, random access memory (RAM), and read only memory (ROM). The
subscriber inserts it in the MS unit when he or she wants to use the MS to make or receive a
call. As stated, a SIM also comes in a modular from that can be mounted in the subscribers
equipment.

When a mobile subscriber wants to use the system, he or she mounts their SIM card and
provide their Personal Identification Number (PIN), which is compared with a PIN stored
within the SIM. If the user enters three incorrect PIN codes, the SIM is disabled. The service
provider if requested by the subscriber can also permanently bypass the PIN. Disabling the
PIN code simplifies the call setup but reduces the protection of the users account in the event
of a stolen SIM.


22

3.1.2 Ba a i
The B e St ti (BS) termi tes the radi i terface (Um) on the stationary net ork
side. The BS has a modular desi n and includes the:

1. Base Transcei er Station (BTS)
2. Base Station Controller (BSC)
3. Transcoding and Rate Adaptation Unit (TRAU)

A BSC can control several BTS. Every BSC contained in the net ork controls one BSS.
The interface bet een BSC and BTS is called A- i a
The BSC the TRAU and BTS form a unit which is called Base Station System (BSS) in the
GSM terminology.

Fi . 3.4: Ba Stati System

The BSS is a set of BS equipment (such as transceivers and controllers) that is in view by the
MSC through a single A interface as being the entity responsible for communicating with
MSs in a certain area. The radio equipment of a BSS may be composed of one or more cells.
A BSS may consist of one or more BS. The interface between BSC and BTS is designed as
an A
bis
interface. The BSS includes two types of machines: the BTS in contact with the MSs
through the radio interface; and the BSC, the latter being in contact with the MSC. The
function split is basically between transmission equipment, the BTS and managing equipment
at the BSC. All radio-related functions are performed in the BSS, which consists of base
station controllers (BSCs) and the base transceiver stations (BTSs).


A sub interface
A interface

23

1. Base Terminal Station (BTS)
The BTS handles the radio interface to the mobile station. The BTS is the radio
equipment (transceivers and antennas) needed to service each cell in the network. A group of
BTSs are controlled by a BSC.
A BTS is a network component that serves one cell and is controlled by a BSC. BTS is
typically able to handle three to five radio carries, carrying between 24 and 40 simultaneous
communication. Reducing the BTS volume is important to keeping down the cost of the cell
sites.
A BTS compares radio transmission and reception devices, up to and including the
antennas, and also all the signal processing specific to the radio interface. A single transceiver
within BTS supports eight basic radio channels of the same TDM frame.

A BTS in general has the following parts:
y Transceiver (TRX)
Quite widely referred to as the driver receiver (DRX). DRX are either in the form of
single (sTRU), double(dTRU) or a composite Double Radio Unit (DRU). It basically
does transmission and reception of signals. Also does sending and reception of signals
to/from higher network entities (like the base station controller in mobile telephony).
y Power amplifier (PA)
Amplifies the signal from DRX for transmission through antenna; may be integrated
with DRX.
y Combiner
Combines feeds from several DRXs so that they could be sent out through a single
antenna. Allows for a reduction in the number of antenna used.
y Duplexer
For separating sending and receiving signals to/from antenna.Does sending and
receiving signals through the same antenna ports (cables to antenna).
y Antenna
This is also considered a part of the BTS.
y Alarm extension system
Collects working status alarms of various units in the BTS and extends them to
operations and maintenance (O&M) monitoring stations.
y Control function
Control and manages the various units of BTS including any software. On-the-spot
configurations, status changes, software upgrades, etc. are done through the control
function.
y Baseband receiver unit (BBxx)
Frequency hopping, signal DSP, etc.


24

y Functions of BTS

The primary responsibility of the BTS is to transmit and receive radio signals from a
mobile unit over an air interface. To perform this function completely, the signals are
encoded, encrypted, multiplexed, modulated, and then fed to the antenna system at the cell
site. Transcoding to bring 13-kbps speech to a standard data rate of 16 kbps and then
combining four of these signals to 64 kbps is essentially a part of BTS, though; it can be done
at BSC or at MSC. The voice communication can be either at a full or half rate over logical
speech channel. In order to keep the mobile synchronized, BTS transmits frequency and time
synchronization signals over frequency correction channel (FCCH and BCCH logical
channels. The received signal from the mobile is decoded, decrypted, and equalized for
channel impairments.

Random access detection is made by BTS, which then sends the message to BSC. The
channel subsequent assignment is made by BSC. Timing advance is determined by BTS. BTS
signals the mobile for proper timing adjustment. Uplink radio channel measurement
corresponding to the downlink measurements made by MS has to be made by BTS.

2. Base Station Controller (BSC)
A BSC is a network component in the PLMN that function
for control of one or more BTS. It is a functional entity that
handles common control functions within a BTS. BSC within
a mobile network is a key component for handling and routing
information. The BSC provides all the control functions and
physical links between the MSC and BTS. It is a high-capacity
switch that provides functions such as handover, cell
configuration data, and control of radio frequency (RF) power
levels in base transceiver stations. A number of BSCs are
served by an MSC.
The BSC is connected to the MSC on one side and to the
BTS on the other. The BSC performs the Radio Resource (RR)
management for the cells under its control. It assigns and releases frequencies and timeslots
for all MSs in its own area. The BSC performs the inter-cell handover for MSs moving
between BTS in its control. It also reallocates frequencies to the BTSs in its area to meet
locally heavy demands during peak hours or on special events. The BSC controls the power
transmission of both BSSs and MSs in its area. The minimum power level for a mobile unit is
broadcast over the BCCH. The BSC provides the time and frequency synchronization
reference signals broadcast by its BTSs. The BSC also measures the time delay of received
MS signals relative to the BTS clock. If the received MS signal is not centered in its assigned
timeslot at the BTS, The BSC can direct the BTS to notify the MS to advance the timing such
that proper synchronization takes place. The BSC may also perform traffic concentration to
reduce the number of transmission lines from the BSC to its BTSs.

25

y BTS-BSC Configurations

There are several BTS-BSC configurations: single site, single cell; single site, multicell;
and multisite, multicell. These configurations are chosen based on the rural or urban
application. These configurations make the GSM system economical since the operation has
options to adapt the best layout based on the traffic requirement. Thus, in some sense, system
optimization is possible by the proper choice of the configuration. These include omni-
directional rural configuration where the BSC and BTS are on the same site; chain and
multidrop loop configuration in which several BTSs are controlled by a single remote BSC
with a chain or ring connection topology; rural star configuration in which several BTSs are
connected by individual lines to the same BSC; and sectorized urban configuration in which
three BTSs share the same site and are controlled by either a collocated or remote BSC.

In rural areas, most BTSs are installed to provide maximum coverage rather than
maximum capacity.


3. Transcoder and Rate Adaptation Unit (TRAU)

An important component of the BSS that is considered in the GSM architecture as a part
of the BTS is the Transcoder/Rate Adaptation Unit (TRAU). The TRAU is the equipment in
which coding and decoding is carried out as well as rate adaptation in case of data. Although
the specifications consider the TRAU as a subpart of the BTS, it can be sited away from the
BTS (at MSC), and even between the BSC and the MSC. The TRAU adapts the 64 Kbps
from the MSC to the comparatively low transmission rate of the radio interface of 16 Kbps.

The interface between the MSC and the BSS is a standardized SS7 interface (A-interface)
that, as stated before, is fully defined in the GSM recommendations. This allows the system
operator to purchase switching equipment from one supplier and radio equipment and the
controller from another. The interface between the BSC and a remote BTS likewise is a
standard the A
bis.
In splitting the BSS functions between BTS and BSC, the main principle
was that only such functions that had to reside close to the radio transmitters/receivers should
be placed in BTS. This will also help reduce the complexity of the BTS.

Depending on the relative costs of a transmission plant for a particular cellular operator,
there may be some benefit, for larger cells and certain network topologies, in having the
transcoder either at the BTS, BSC or MSC location. If the transcoder is located at MSC, they
are still considered functionally a part of the BSS. This approach allows for the maximum of
flexibility and innovation in optimizing the transmission between MSC and BTS.




3.1.3 Network Switching Subsystem (NSS)

26


The Network Switching Subsystem (NSS) comprises of:


1. Mobile services Switching Centre (MSC)
2. Home Location Register (HLR)
3. Visitor Location Register (VLR)
4. Authentication Centre (AC)
5. Equipment Identification Register (EIR)



Fig. 3.5: Components of Switching Subsystem


The network and the switching subsystem together include the main switching functions
of GSM as well as the databases needed for subscriber data and mobility management (VLR).
The main role of the MSC is to manage the communications between the GSM users and
other telecommunication network users. The basic switching function is performed by the
MSC, whose main function is to coordinate setting up calls to and from GSM users. The
MSC has interface with the BSS on one side (through which MSC VLR is in contact with
GSM users) and the external networks on the other (ISDN/PSTN/PSPDN). The main
difference between a MSC and an exchange in a fixed network is that the MSC has to take
into account the impact of the allocation of RRs and the mobile nature of the subscribers and
has to perform, in addition, at least, activities required for the location registration and
handover.

The MSC is a telephony switch that performs all the switching functions for MSs located
in a geographical area as the MSC area. The MSC must also handle different types of
numbers and identities related to the same MS and contained in different registers: IMSI,
TMSI, ISDN number, and MSRN. In general identities are used in the interface between the
MSC and the MS, while numbers are used in the fixed part of the network, such as, for
routing.




1. Mobile services Switching Centre (MSC)

27

An MSC is the point of connection to the network for mobile subscribers of a wireless
telephone network. It connects to the subscribers through base stations and radio transmission
equipment that control the air interface, and to the network of other MSCs and wireless
infrastructure through voice trunks and SS7. An MSC includes the procedures for mobile
registration and is generally co-sited with a visitor location register (VLR) that is used to
temporarily store information relating to the mobile subscribers temporarily connected to that
MSC. The MSC performs the telephony switching functions of the system. It controls calls to
and from other telephone and data systems. It also performs such functions as toll ticketing,
network interfacing, common channel signaling, and others.


Fig. 3.6: Mobile Service Switching Centre

y Functions of MSC

As stated, the main function of the MSC is to coordinate the set up of calls between GSM
mobile and PSTN users. Specifically, it performs functions such as paging, resource
allocation, location registration, and encryption.

Specifically, the call-handling function of paging is controlled by MSC. MSC coordinates
the set up of call to and from all GSM subscribers operating in its areas. The dynamics
allocation of access resources is done in coordination with the BSS. More specifically, the
MSC decides when and which types of channels should be assigned to which MS. The
channel identity and related radio parameters are the responsibility of the BSS; The MSC
provides the control of interworking with different networks. It is transparent for the
subscriber authentication procedure. The MSC supervises the connection transfer between
different BSSs for MSs, with an active call, moving from one call to another. This is ensured
if the two BSSs are connected to the same MSC but also when they are not. In this latter case
the procedure is more complex, since more than one MSC involved. The MSC performs
billing on calls for all subscribers based in its areas. When the subscriber is roaming
elsewhere, the MSC obtains data for the call billing from the visited MSC. Encryption
parameters transfers from VLR to BSS to facilitate ciphering on the radio interface are done
by MSC.
2. Home Location Register


28

The HLR is a database that permanently stores data related to a given set of subscribers.
The HLR is the reference database for subscriber parameters. Various identification numbers
and addresses as well as authentication parameters, services subscribed, and special routing
information are stored. Current subscriber status including a subscribers temporary roaming
number and associated VLR if the mobile is roaming, are maintained.
The HLR is a database used for storage and management of subscriptions. The HLR is
considered the most important database, as it stores permanent data about subscribers,
including a subscriber's service profile, location information, and activity status. When an
individual buys a subscription from one of the PCS operators, he or she is registered in the
HLR of that operator. Once a mobile user is registered with a network, the current location is
stored in the HLR, thus allowing incoming calls to be routed to the subscriber.
The HLR provides data needed to route calls to all MS-SIMs home based in its MSC
area, even when they are roaming out of area or in other GSM networks. The HLR provides
the current location data needed to support searching for and paging the MS-SIM for
incoming calls, wherever the MS-SIM may be. The HLR is responsible for storage and
provision of SIM authentication and encryption parameters needed by the MSC where the
MS-SIM is operating. It obtains these parameters from the AUC.

The HLR maintains record of which supplementary service each user has subscribed to
and provides permission control in granting services. The HLR stores the identification of
SMS gateways that have messages for the subscriber under the SMS until they can be
transmitted to the subscriber and receipt is knowledge.

Some data are mandatory, other data are optional. Both the HLR and the VLR can be
implemented in the same equipment in an MSC (collocated). A PLMN may contain one or
several HLRs.

3. Visitor Location Register
The VLR is a database that contains temporary information about subscribers that is needed
by the MSC in order to service visiting subscribers. The VLR is always integrated with the
MSC. When a mobile station roams into a new MSC area, the VLR connected to that MSC
will request data about the mobile station from the HLR. Later, if the mobile station makes a
call, the VLR will have the information needed for call setup without having to interrogate
the HLR each time.
The VLR is allocated with an MSC. A MS roaming in an MSC area is controlled by the VLR
responsible for that area. When a MS appears in a LA, it starts a registration procedure. The
MSC for that area notices this registration and transfers to the VLR the identity of the LA
where the MS is situated. A VLR may


29

be in charge of one or several MSC LAs. The VLR constitutes the databases that support the
MSC in the storage and retrieval of the data of subscribers present in its area. When an MS
enters the MSC area borders, it signals its arrival to the MSC that stores its identity in the
VLR. The information necessary to manage the MS is contained in the HLR and is
transferred to the VLR so that they can be easily retrieved if so required.

y Data Stored in VLR:

The data contained in the VLR and in the HLR are more or less the same. Nevertheless the
data are present in the VLR only as long as the MS is registered in the area related to that
VLR. Data associated with the movement of mobile are IMSI, MSISDN, MSRN, and TMSI.
The terms permanent and temporary, in this case, are meaningful only during that time
interval. Some data are mandatory, others are optional.

4. Authentication Centre
A unit called the AUC provides authentication and encryption parameters that verify the
user's identity and ensure the confidentiality of each call. The AUC protects network
operators from different types of fraud found in today's cellular world.
The AUC stores information that is necessary to protect communication through the air
interface against intrusions, to which the mobile is vulnerable. The legitimacy of the
subscriber is established through authentication and ciphering, which protects the user
information against unwanted disclosure. Authentication information and ciphering keys are
stored in a database within the AUC, which protects the user information against unwanted
disclosure and access.
In the authentication procedure, the key K
i
is never transmitted to the mobile over the air
path, only a random number is sent. In order to gain access to the system, the mobile must
provide the correct Signed Response (SRES) in answer to a random number (RAND)
generated by AUC.

Also, K
i
and the cipher key K
c
are never transmitted across the air interface between the
BTS and the MS. Only the random challenge and the calculated response are transmitted.
Thus, the value of K
i
and K
c
are kept secure. The cipher key, on the other hand, is transmitted
on the SS7 link between the home HLR/AUC and the visited MSC, which is a point of
potential vulnerability. On the other hand, the random number and cipher key is supposed to
change with each phone call, so finding them on one call will not benefit using them on the
next call.

The HLR is also responsible for the authentication of the subscriber each time he makes
or receives a call. The AUC, which actually performs this function, is a separate GSM entity
that will often be physically included with the HLR. Being separate, it will use separate
processing equipment for the AUC database functions.

30

5. E i ment Identity Register
The EIR is a database that contains information about the identity of mobile equipment
that prevents calls from stolen, unauthori ed, or defective mobile stations. The AUC and EIR
are implemented as stand-alone nodes or as a combined AUC/EIR node.
EIR is a database that stores the IMEI numbers for all registered ME units. The IMEI
uniquely identifies all registered ME. There is generally one EIR per PLM . It interfaces to
the various HLR in the PLM . The EIR keeps track of all ME units in the PLM . It
maintains various lists of message. The database stores the ME identification and has nothing
do with subscriber who is receiving or originating call.
There are three classes of ME that are stored in the database, and each group has different
characteristics:

y White List: contains those IMEIs that are known to have been assigned to valid
MSs. This is the category of genuine equipment.
y Bla k List: contains IMEIs of mobiles that have been reported stolen.
y Gray List: contains IMEIs of mobiles that have problems (for example, faulty
software, and wrong make of the equipment). This list contains all MEs with faults
not important enough for barring.

Fig. 3.7: E i ment Identity Register Code





31

3.1.4 Operation and Maintenance Subsystem (OMS)

An OMS consists of one or more Operation & Maintenance Centre (OMC).


Fig. 3.8: Operation and Maintenance Subsystem

The operations and maintenance center (OMC) is connected to all equipment in the
switching system and to the BSC. The implementation of OMC is called the operation and
support system (OSS). The OSS is the functional entity from which the network operator
monitors and controls the system. The purpose of OSS is to offer the customer cost-effective
support for centralized, regional and local operational and maintenance activities that are
required for a GSM network. An important function of OSS is to provide a network overview
and support the maintenance activities of different operation and maintenance organizations.
The OMC provides alarm-handling functions to report and log alarms generated by the
other network entities. The maintenance personnel at the OMC can define that criticality of
the alarm. Maintenance covers both technical and administrative actions to maintain and
correct the system operation, or to restore normal operations after a breakdown, in the
shortest possible time.

The fault management functions of the OMC allow network devices to be manually or
automatically removed from or restored to service. The status of network devices can be
checked, and tests and diagnostics on various devices can be invoked. For example,
diagnostics may be initiated remotely by the OMC. A mobile call trace facility can also be
invoked. The performance management functions included collecting traffic statistics from
the GSM network entities and archiving them in disk files or displaying them for analysis.
Because a potential to collect large amounts of data exists, maintenance personal can select
which of the detailed statistics to be collected based on personal interests and past experience.
As a result of performance analysis, if necessary, an alarm can be set remotely.

The OMC provides system change control for the software revisions and configuration
data bases in the network entities or uploaded to the OMC. The OMC also keeps track of the
different software versions running on different subsystem of the GSM.

32







CHAPTER 4

GSM CHANNELS AND
INTERFACING









33

4.1 GSM Channels

4.1.1 Channel structure

A total of 156.25 bits is transmitted in 0.577 milliseconds, giving a gross bit rate of
270.833 kbps. There are three other types of burst structure for frame and carrier
synchronization and frequency correction. The 26bit training sequence is used for
equalization, as described above. The 8.25 bit guard time allows for some propagation time
delay in the arrival of bursts.


Fig. 4.1: GSM Channel Structure

4.1.2 Physical channels
y In the air interface, frequency channel C0 and time slots TS0 and TS1 on that channel
constitute the physical channels. Each cell has a dedicated C0 channel. Most logical
control channels for signaling across the air interface are carried by LAPDm.
y In the interface between the base station and the BSC, all signaling is carried by
LAPD links, which in turn use PCM channels. Signaling that is also transported
across the air interface is carried by links having 0 as the service access point
identifier (SAPI) address. Since a BSC is responsible for the maintenance of its base
stations, BSC-BTS communication is extensive. The maintenance signals are carried
by LAPD links having 62 as the SAPI address for base station maintenance and 63 for
maintenance of LAPD. The LAPD links are in turn carried by a time slot (usually
TS1) on the PCM link connecting a base station to its BSC.
y In the interface between a BSC and its MSC, there are three levels of physical
channels. The topmost level is the discrimination mechanism of the BSSAP protocol,
which distinguishes between signals to be transported between a mobile and the MSC
and signals that are to be transported only between the MSC and the BSC. In both
cases, BSSAP signals are carried by the SCCP in SS7. All call-related signaling uses
SCCP's connection-oriented service, while the connectionless service is used in all
other cases. SS7 normally uses one or more time slots in a PCM system.

34


The physical channels - together with the relay functions - are used to create logical
channels through all or part of the access network. In the air interface, these logical channels
are divided into nine types of control channel and two types of traffic channel, all of which
are mapped onto the time slots of the physical channels.

4.1.3 Logical channels
Logical Channels are of two types:
1. Control Channels
2. Traffic Channels

1. Control Channels
Control channels are divided into three classes, based on how and when they are used:
a. Broadcast channels (BCH)
b. Common control channels (CCCH) and
c. Dedicated control channels (DCCH).



Fig. 4.2: Logical Channels





35

a. Broadcast Channels (BCH)

y Broadcast Control Channel (BCCH) (DOWNLINK) - This channel contains
system parameters needed to identify the network and gain access.

y Frequency Correction Channel (FCCH) (DOWNLINK) - This channel is used by
the MS as a frequency reference. This channel contains frequency correction bursts.

y Synchronization Channel (SCH) (DOWNLINK) - This channel is used by the MS
to learn the Base Station Information Code (BSIC) as well as the TDMA frame
number (FN). This lets the MS know what TDMA frame they are on within the
hyperframe.

y Cell Broadcast Channel (CBCH) (DOWNLINK) - This channel is not truly its
own type of logical channel. The CBCH is for point-to-omnipoint messages. It is
used to broadcast specific information to network subscribers; such as weather,
traffic, sports, stocks, etc. Messages can be of any nature depending on what service is
provided. Messages are normally public service type messages or announcements.
The CBCH isnt allocated a slot for itself; it is assigned to an SDCCH. It only occurs
on the downlink. The CBCH usually occupies the second subslot of the SDCCH. The
mobile will not acknowledge any of the messages.


b. Common Control Channels (CCCH)

y Paging Channel (PCH) (DOWNLINK) - This channel is used to inform the MS
that it has incoming traffic. The traffic could be a voice call, SMS, or some other form
of traffic.

y Random Access Channel (RACH) (UPLINK) This channel is used by a MS to
request an initial dedicated channel from the BTS. This would be the first
transmission made by a MS to access the network and request radio resources. The
MS sends anAccess Burst on this channel in order to request access.

y Access Grant Channel (AGCH) (DOWNLINK) - This channel is used by a BTS
to notify the MS of the assignment of an initial SDCCH for initial signaling.








36

c. Dedicated Control Channels (DCCH)

y Stand-alone Dedicated Control Channel (SDCCH) (UPLINK/ NLINK) -
This channel is used for signaling and call setup between the MS and the BTS.

y Associated Control Channels (ACCH) - This channel is used for control
requirements such as handoffs and for control and supervisory signals associated with
the traffic channels.

2. Tra ic channels

A traffic channel (TCH) is used to carry speech and data traffic. Traffic channels are defined
using a 26-frame multiframe, or group of 26 TDMA frames. The length of a 26-frame
multiframe is 120 ms, which is how the length of a burst period is defined (120 ms divided by
26 frames divided by 8 burst periods per frame). Out of the 26 frames, 24 are used for traffic,
1 is used for the Slow Associated Control Channel (SACCH) and 1 is currently unused (see
Figure). TCHs for the uplink and downlink are separated in time by 3 burst periods, so that
the mobile station does not have to transmit and receive simultaneously, thus simplifying the
electronics.

In addition to these full-rateTCHs, there are also half-rate TCHs defined, although they are
not yet implemented. Half-rate TCHs will effectively double the capacity of a system once
half-rate speech coders are specified (i.e., speech coding at around 7 kbps, instead of 13
kbps). Eighth-rate TCHs are also specified, and are used for signaling. In the
recommendations, they are called Stand-alone Dedicated Control Channels (SDCCH).



Fig. 4.3: TDMA frames for speech and data


37

4.2 GSM Interfacing



Table 4.1: Various GSM Interfaces






38


y A Interface: The A Interface is used to provide communication between the BSS and
MSC. The interface carries information to enable the channels, timeslots and the like
to be allocated to the mobile equipment being serviced by the BSS. The messaging
required within the network to enable handover etc. to be undertaken is carried over
the interface.

y Abis Interface: This is a BSS internal interface linking the BSC and a BTS, and it
has not been totally standardized. The Abis interface allows control of the radio
equipment and radio frequency allocation in the BTS.

y B Interface: The B interface exists between the MSC and the VLR. It uses a protocol
known as the MAP/B protocol. As most VLRs are collocated with a MSC, this
makes the interface purely an internal interface. This interface is used whenever the
MSC needs access to the data regarding a MS located in its area.

y C Interface: The C interface is located between the HLR and a GMSC or a SMS-G.
When a call originates from outside the network, i.e. from the PSTN or another
mobile network it has to pass through the gateway so that routing information require
to complete the call may be gained.

y E Interface:The E interface provides communication between two MSCs. The E
interface exchanges data related to the handover between the anchor and relay MSCs
using the MAP/E protocol.

y F Interface:The F interface is used between an MSC and EIR. It uses the MAP/F
protocol. The communications along this interface are used to confirm the status of
the IMEI of the ME gaining access to the network.

y G Interface: The G interface interconnects two VLRs of different MSCs and uses
the MAP/G protocol to transfer subscriber information, during e.g. a location update
procedure.












39






CHAPTER 5

GSM NETWORK
OPTIMIZATION


















40

5.1 Introduction

RF Optimization of GSM network can be done by performing the Drive Test (DT).Before
Drive Test we check the azimuth and Tilt of the antennas mounted on the tower. In Drive
Test, first we locate the site then we connect the TEMS, GPS with PC and start Software
TEMS 6.0. Then we make logs of the following: TRX, in this we make 20 calls at each
section of 20 seconds, the next log is INTER, and we make long drive for testing hand over
to adjacent BTS and coverage. The other log is INTRA, in this we make round a circle
clockwise and counter clockwise to the BTS and check the handovers between the adjacent
cells. In last, we make log of GPRS, in this RF Engineer checking the GPRS service in all
BTS cells.



5.2 RF Optimization of GSM Network

5.2.1 Optimization Techniques

1. Fast and Accurate Network Optimization

Using measurement data generated byreal subscribers as well as the traditional
network data sources, theGSM Network Optimization Servicegives you the tools you
need for hardware optimization, analysis of performancestatistics,database analysis, call
trace analysis, and frequency planning optimization. Now you can collect data from your
entire network no matter which vendors equipment you use and improve performance
across the board, and automated analysis also means you get results with significantly
shorter times.


2. Network Coverage

An optimized network performs better and subscribers notice the difference. So you
can achieve higher customer satisfaction by reducing the number of dropped calls,
thereby reducing churn and increasing customer loyalty.









41

5.2.2 Optimization Methodology

y Hardware Analysis
Analysis of potential hardware problems in the network not detected by
normalfaultmanagementmethods.

y Performance Statistics
Analysis of performance statistics, with standard graphical information sheet for each
cell.
Analysis of potential hardware problems in the network not detected
bynormalfaultmanagementmethods.

y Call Trace Analysis
Detects problems with antenna tilts.DetectsproblemswithBase Transceiver Subsystem
(BTS) output power.

y Frequency Planning Optimization
Re-definition of handovers andassigned frequencies.


1.1 Optimization Equipments

y LAPTOP
In RF Optimization the RF Engineer analysis all parameters during the drive test and
install all the software on the Laptop system.



Fig. 5.1: Laptop for Drive Test





42


y TEMS
This TEMS Investigation Software supported Cellular Mobile specially design to
perform RF Optimization related activity and it is connected with the Laptop System
and then it is operated from the Laptop for analysis of Optimized data.



Fig. 5.2: TEMS Software


y GPS Device
This GPS device is also connected with the Laptop System with Map Info software
support it used for its basic operation to locate the position.



Fig. 5.3: GPS Device





43

y COMPASS
It is used to check the Tilt of the antennas mounted on the tower andRF Engineer
make sure the antennas is angled on the right position as it angle is mentioned in the
DT order.



Fig. 5.4: Compass


























44







CHAPTER 6

GSM SERVICES










45

6.1 GSM Services

y Call waiting

With Call Waiting on a Hutch phone, you can receive and hold an incoming call when
you are already talking to another person. When this service is activated, the network notifies
you of a new incoming call while you have a call in progress, which means that if another
person tries calling you midway through a conversation, he/she will hear a message
informing him/her that your line is busy, while you will hear beeps at intervals.

y Call Divert
In case you are busy in a meeting, or if your cell phone is switched off, you can forward
incoming calls to a landline or another mobile phone - where someone can receive messages
on your behalf. You can also forward an incoming call while speaking to someone.

y Voice response services
By using these services one can access information, download ringtones and logos, and
more. For this one has to just dial and speak on a no. for the desired service. With Hutch
World, one can enjoy a host of GPRS-based services exclusively on Hutch GPRS phone.
From astrology to photo messaging, gaming, chat, news and even internet access.

y Mail
One can now send an SMS - without even using a mobile phone, from wherever they are.
All they need to do is type in their message and send it as e-mail.
y Roaming
Roaming is defined as the ability for a cellular customer to automatically make & receive
voice calls, send & receive data, or access other services when traveling outside the
geographical coverage area of the home network, by means of using a visited network.
If the visited network is in the same country as the home network, this is known as National
Roaming. If the visited network is outside the home country, this is known as International
Roaming (the term Global Roaming has also been used).If the visited network operates on a
different technical standard than the home network, this is known as Inter-standard roaming.
GSM Roaming, which involves roaming between GSM networks, offers the convenience of a
single number, a single bill and a single phone with worldwide access to over 205 countries.
The convenience of GSM Roaming has been a key driver behind the global success of the
GSM Platform.

46

y GSM Coverage Maps
GSM Coverage Maps is a unique resource containing information supplied and approved
by the members of the GSM Association.
Network, Services and Roaming information are continually updated to reflect the evolving
situation worldwide. Interactive coverage maps, updated quarterly, allow you to navigate to
see where exactly you can use your phone.
y SMS
The Short Message Service (SMS) is the ability to send and receive text messages to and
from mobile telephones. The text can comprise of words or numbers or an alphanumeric
combination. SMS was created as part of the GSM Phase 1 standard. The first short message
is believed to have been sent in December 1992 from a Personal Computer (PC) to a mobile
phone on the Vodafone GSM network in the UK. Each short message is up to 160 characters
is length when Latin alphabets are used, and 70 characters in length when non-Latin
alphabets such as Arabic and Chinese are used.
Consumer Applications using SMS
The vast majority of SMS usage is accounted for by consumer applications. The main
consumer applications based on SMS are:
SIMPLE PERSON-TO-PERSON MESSAGING
VOICE AND FAX MAIL NOTIFICATIONS
UNIFIED MESSAGING
INTERNET EMAIL ALERTS
RINGTONES
CHAT
INFORMATION SERVICES
Corporate Applications using SMS
Corporate applications that use the Short Message Service are currently few and far
between. Most of the SMS messaging volumes are generated by consumer
applications. The main corporate applications based on SMS are:
CORPORATE EMAIL
AFFINITY PROGRAMS
MOBILE BANKING
ELECTRONIC COMMERCE
CUSTOMER SERVICE
VEHICLE POSITIONING

47

JOB DISPATCH
REMOTE POINT OF SALE
OVER THE AIR
REMOTE MONITORING

y MMS
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) is a store and forward messaging service that allows
mobile subscribers to exchange multimedia messages with other mobile subscribers. As such
it can be seen as an evolution of SMS, with MMS supporting the transmission of additional
media types:
text
picture
audio
video
combinations of the above
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) is an important emerging service, which allows the
sending of multiple media in a single message, and the ability to send a message to multiple
recipients. The originator can easily create a Multimedia Message, either using a built-in or
accessory camera, or can use images and sounds stored previously in the phone.

Even if the recipient phone is not switched on, the Multimedia Message will be stored and
sent to the recipient as soon as they switch on their phone. In a non-roaming case, it is
expected that the subscriber will allow a Multimedia Message to be downloaded
automatically to their phone and then they would be notified and could see the Multimedia
Message immediately.

A number of Multimedia Messages can be stored in the users handset and reviewed or
forwarded at a later date.

Each Multimedia Message contains a number of pages. On each page, there can be one image
and one set of text. An audio file can also be attached. The time that each page is displayed
can be specified, so the user experience is somewhat like a slide show.








48

Conclusion
It is a standard that ensures interoperability without stifling competition and innovation
among suppliers, to the benefit of the public both in terms of cost and service quality. For
example, by using Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) microprocessor technology, many
functions of the mobile station can be built on one chipset, resulting in lighter, more compact
and more energy-efficient terminals.
Telecommunications are evolving towards personal communication networks, whose
objective can be stated as the availability of all communication services anytime, anywhere,
to anyone, by a single identity number and a pocket able communication terminal. Having a
multitude of incompatible systems throughout the world moves us farther away from this
ideal. The economies of scale created by a unified system are enough to justify its
implementation, not to mention the convenience to people of carrying just one
communication terminal anywhere they go, regardless of national boundaries.
The GSM system, and its sibling systems operating at 1.8 GHz (called DCS1800) and 1.9
GHz (called GSM1900 or PCS1900, and operating in North America), are a first approach at
a true personal communication system. The SIM card is a novel approach that implements
personal mobility in addition to terminal mobility. Together with international roaming, and
support for a variety of services such as telephony, data transfer, fax, Short Message Service,
and supplementary services, GSM comes close to fulfilling the requirements for a personal
communication system: close enough that it is being used as a basis for the next generation of
mobile communication technology in Europe, the Universal Mobile Telecommunication
System (UMTS).
Another point where GSM has shown its commitment to openness, standards and
interoperability is the compatibility with the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) that
is evolving in most industrialized countries and Europe in particular (the so-called Euro-
ISDN). GSM is also the first system to make extensive use of the Intelligent Networking
concept, in which services like 800 numbers are concentrated and handled from a few
centralized service centers, instead of being distributed over every switch in the country. This
is the concept behind the use of the various registers such as the HLR. In addition, the
signaling between these functional entities uses Signaling System Number 7, an international
standard already deployed in many countries and specified as the backbone signaling network
for ISDN.
GSM is a very complex standard, but that is probably the price that must be paid to achieve
the level of integrated service and quality offered while subject to the rather severe
restrictions imposed by the radio environment.



49

Future Scope
As stated earlier, GSM is the fastest growing cellular technology. Through the decades
generations have been improved with specifications. In the beginning 1
st
generation came
with analogue followed by its improved version which is the 2
nd
generation. The 2
nd

generation is improved by giving it digital communication. To improve 2
nd
the introduction to
GPRS came giving it the name 2.5 G. Further advancement came with fast internet and
services which presently being used. The future for GSM is highly open. The present
technology which we are using is 3G. Mobile TV ,Video on demand and Video
conferencing are a few applications of 3G.

As years pass, these present generations will be modified. There are 12 operators in India
where the population has one billion. Of these, 8 are GSM providers. India is the most
competitive telecom market in the world. Soon 3.5G and 4G will come to the market. High-
Speed Downlink Packet Access or HSDPA is a mobile telephony protocol, also called 3.5G
(or "3G"). High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) is a packet-based data service in
W-CDMA downlink with data transmission up to 8-10 Mbit/s.
4G (or 4-G) is short for fourth-generation the successor of 3G and is a wireless access
technology. It describes two different but overlapping ideas. High-speed mobile wireless
access with a very high data transmission speed, of the same order of magnitude as a local
area network connection (10 Mbits/s and up). It has been used to describe wireless LAN
technologies like Wi-Fi, as well as other potential successors of the current 3G mobile
telephone standards.











50

References
1. Introduction to GSM, 2
nd
Edition by Lawrence Harte (Physical Channels, Logical
Channels, Network Functions, and Operation).
2. An Introduction to GSM by Oliphant, Malcolm W (02 1995).
3. Wireless Communication, Principles and Practice by T.S Rappaport.
4. http://ewh.ieee.org/r10/bombay/news5/GSM.htm
5. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GSM
6. http://www.gsmworld.com/technology/index.htm
7. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GSM_services
8. http://www.tutorialspoint.com/gsm/gsm_architecture.htm