02 Tm2110eu01tm 0004 Gprs

GPRS - General Packet Radio Services Sidemen's
TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
1

Contents
1 GPRS Objectives and Advantages 3
1.1 GPRS Objectives and Advantages 4
1.2 Standardization 6
2 Basic Principles 9
2.1 Management of Radio Resources/ Coding Schemes 10
2.2 GPRS Subscriber Profile 12
2.3 Quality of Service (QoS) Profiles 14
3 GPRS-Architecture 21
3.1 GPRS Architecture 22
3.2 GSM Phase 2+, Interfaces 24
3.3 New Network Elements for GPRS 26
4 Logical Functions 35
4.1 Logical Functions in the GPRS Network 36
4.2 Allocation of Logical Functions 44
5 Exercises 47
6 Solutions 55

GPRS - General Packet Radio Services
Sidemen's GPRS - General Packet Radio Services

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
2

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
3
1 GPRS Objectives and Advantages

Objectives & Standardization
GPRS
General Packet Radio Services

Fig. 1

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
4

1.1 GPRS Objectives and Advantages
The transmission of data is becoming increasingly important in the field of telecom-
munication. In the fixed network, the transmission of extensive data files and E-mail
and contacts to the Intra- and Internet is by far in excess of language transmission.
The need for mobile data transport is increasing at a similarly impressive rate, yet the
presently available mobile communication systems, even GSM, still present a num-
ber of shortcomings.
Disadvantages for the user in GSM Phase 1/2:
In GSM (phase 1/2), the data rate is limited to a peak value of 9.6 kbit/s
Links to the data networks need to be routed via PSTN/ISDN (Additional charging of
the user for using a transit network)
The user is billed for the connection duration instead of being billed for his/her actual
use of the network (data volume)
The set-up of a connection takes more time (ca. 20s if a modem is used)
The length of SMS is limited (160 alphanumerical characters)
Disadvantages for the provider in GMS Phase 1/2:
Inefficient resource management & the number of users is limited.

HSCSD (High Speed Circuit Switched Data)
In principle, transmission rates of up to 115.2 kbit/s can be achieved with HSCSD.
Combining 4 timeslots, the ISDN transmission rate can be matched. One problem of
HSCSD, however, is the circuit switched data transmission. Efficient resource man-
agement is impossible. Additional costs arise for the user. For this reason HSCSD is
essentially suited for applications involving high but constant transmission rates
(videotelephony).

GPRS (GENERAL PACKET RADIO SERVICES)
GPRS is, on the one hand, intended to provide the possibility of transmitting large
volumes of data in a very short time. On the other hand it is meant to ensure effective
management of available resources, which will increase the number of users and re-
duce the costs arising for the individual user (volume-oriented fees).
Another positive consequence of the introduction of GPRS is its direct access to the
Intra- and Internet and the possibility to use point-to-point and point-to-multipoint ser-
vices side by side. An important aspect is that GSM networks are prepared for the in-
troduction of UMTS.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
5

GPRS Objectives
& Advantages
PSTN
Modem
ISDN
Service provider
access point
BSS
SSS
IP
Modem
SMSC
SMS
PDNs
Intranet
Internet
PSPDN
BS-udi
BS-
3.1 kHz
audio
GPRS: high data rates reducing costs (volume dependent charging)
resource efficient Point-to-Multipoint services for PMR market
no SMS restrictions direct IP/X.25 connection
prerequisite for UMTS introduction future proof solution

Fig. 2 Limitations of the network architecture


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
6

1.2 Standardization
The introduction of GPRS into the GSM Recommendations is carried out in two
phases.
Phase 1 of GPRS introduction was completed by ETSI in the Annual Release 1997
(03/98) and includes all central GPRS functions.
Phase 1 supports:
Point-to-point transfer of user data
TCP/IP and X.25 bearer services
GPRS identities
GPRS safety (a new ciphering algorithm specially designed for packet data)
Support of volume-oriented billing

In Phase 2, further extensions are planned for all requirements to be met by GPRS:
Support of point-to multipoint (PTM) services
Support of special point-to-point and point-to-multipoint services for applications such
as traffic telematics and GSM-R (PTM-Group Call: PTM-Multicast)
Support of further additional services
Support of additional interworking functions (e.g. ISDN)
Phase 2 will be completed in 1998 or 1999.
GPRS Phase 1 includes the introduction of a number of new recommendations;
some of the existing recommendations have been modified to cover other GPRS
functions, too.
The following recommendations are of central importance:

Rec. 02.60 General GPRS Overview
Rec. 03.60 GPRS System and architecture description
Rec. 03.64 Radio architecture description


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
7

GPRS-Standardisation
ETSI/GERAN
GPRS Standardisation in 2 Phases
Rec. 02.60
General GPRS Overview
Rec. 03.60
GPRS system &
architecture description
Rec. 03.64
Radio architecture description
Very important:
PtP Data transmission
TCP/IP & X.25 Bearer Services
GPRS Identities
GPRS Security (Ciphering)
SMS via GPRS
volume dependent charging
Phase 1:
(Rel.`97)
PtM data transmission
Broadcast & Group Call
traffic
telematic, GSM-R
further interworking
functionality
further services
Phase 2:
(Rel.`98/99)

Fig. 3 Standardization of GPRS in phases


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
8


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
9

2 Basic Principles

Basics
GPRS

Fig. 4

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
10

2.1 Management of Radio Resources/ Coding
Schemes
In a GPRS-supported cell, one or several physical channels can be allocated to
GPRS transmission. These physical channels (Packet Data Channels PDCHs) are
shared by GPRS mobile stations and are taken from the common/shared pool of all
available physical channels of the cell.
Distribution of the physical channels for various logical packet data channels is based
on blocks of 4 normal bursts each. Uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) for GPRS packet
data are assigned separately (consideration of asymmetrical traffic peaks). Allocation
of circuit switched services and GPRS is achieved dynamically, depending on what
capacities are required (capacity on demand). PDCHs need not be allocated per-
manently; however, it is possible for the operator to permanently or temporarily re-
serve a number of physical channels for GPRS traffic.

New GPRS coding schemes (CS) - CS1 - CS4 - have been defined for the transmis-
sion of packet data traffic channel PDTCH (Rec. 03.64). Coding schemes can be as-
signed as a function of the quality of the radio interface. Normally, groups of 4 burst
blocks each are coded together.
CS-1 makes use of the same coding scheme as has been specified for SDCCH in
GSM Rec. 05.03. It consists of a half rate convolutional code for forward error correc-
tion FEC. CS-1 corresponds to a data rate of 9.05 kbit/s.
CS-4 has no redundancy in transmission (no FEC) and corresponds to a data rate of
21.4 kbit/s.
CS-2 and CS-3 represent punctured versions of the same half rate convolutional
code as CS-1.
CS-2 corresponds to a rate of 13.4 kbit/s, while CS-3 corresponds to a data rate of
15.6 kbit/s.
In principle, 1 to 8 time slots TS of a TDMA frame can be combined dynamically for a
user for the transmission of GPRS packet data. Theoretically it is thus possible to
achieve peak performances of up to 171.2 kbit/s (8x21.4 kbit/s) with GPRS.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
11

9,05 kbit/s
13,4 kbit/s
15,6 kbit/s
21,4 kbit/s
CS-1
CS-2
CS-3
CS-4
Coding
Schemes
different
redundancy (FEC)
Um transmission quality
Radio Resource Management / Coding Schemes
CS & PS (GPRS):
capacity on demand
Physical channel of one cell
GPRS-MSs:
sharing physical channel
GPRS-MSs:
combining 1-8 TS
Up to
171,2 kbit/s
(theoretically)
1 - 8
channel
GPRS-MSs:
asymmetric UL / DL

Fig. 5 Management of radio resources: coding schemes, FEC, and redundancy


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
12

2.2 GPRS Subscriber Profile
The GPRS Subscriber Profile is the description of the services a subscriber is al-
lowed to use. Essentially, it contains the description of the packet data protocol used.
A subscriber may also use different packet data protocols (PDPs), or one PDP with
different addresses. The following parameters are available for each PDP:

The packet network address is necessary to identify the subscriber in the public
data net. Either dynamically assigned (temporary) addresses or (in the future) static
addresses are used in case of IP. The problem of the dynamic addresses will be
overcome with the change from Ipv4 to IPv6. In GPRS is two layer 2 protocols are al-
lowed, X.25 or IP.
The quality of service QoS: QoS describes various parameters. The subscriber pro-
file defines the highest values of the QoS parameters that can be used by the sub-
scriber.
The screening profile: This profile depends on the PDP used and on the capacity of
the GPRS nodes. It serves to restrict acceptance during transmission/reception of
packet data. For example, a subscriber can be restricted with respect to his possible
location, or with respect to certain specific applications.
The GGSN address: The GGSN address indicates which GGSN is used by the sub-
scriber. In this way the point of access to external packet data networks PDN is de-
fined. The internal routing of the data is done by IP protocol; the GSNs will have IP
addresses. A DNS function is needed to find the destination of the data packets (ad-
dress translating: e.g. www.gsn-xxx.com 129.64.39.123)


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
13

GPRS Subscriber Profile
Subscription profile
used Packet Data Protocols PDP
possible: 1 Subscriber - different PDPs / 1 PDP with different addresses
PDP
Parameter
Packet
network address
static/dynamic
IP address
QoS
Quality of Service
highest QoS-
parameter values in
Subscriber Profile
Screening
Profile
limits receiving / emission
of data packets
GGSN address
Access to external PDN

Fig. 6 Part of the GPRS subscriber profile are the PDPs and their parameters


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
14

2.3 Quality of Service (QoS) Profiles
The different applications that will make use of packet-oriented data transmission via
GPRS require different qualities of transmission. GPRS can meet these different re-
quirements because it can vary the quality of service (QoS) over a wide range of at-
tributes. The quality of service profile (Rec. 02.60, 03.60) permits selection of the fol-
lowing attributes:
Precedence class
Delay class
Reliability class
Peak throughput class
Mean throughput class.
By combining the variation possibilities of the individual attributes a large number of
QoS profiles can be achieved. Only a limited proportion of the possible QoS profiles
need PLMN-specific support.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
15

Quality of Service QoS - Profile
Different requirements for different applications
multiple GPRS QoS profiles
precedence class
delay class
reliability class
Peak
throughput
class
mean throughput
class
PLMN must support only
limited QoS service profile

Fig. 7 Quality of service parameters

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
16

Precedence Class
Three different classes have been defined to allow assessment of the importance of
the data packets, in case of limited resources or overload:
1. High precedence
2. Normal precedence
3. Low precedence

Delay Class
GSM Rec.02.60 defines 4 delay classes (1 to 4). However, a PLMN only needs to re-
alize part of these. The minimum requirement is the support of the so-called best ef-
fort delay class (Class 4). Delay requirements (maximum delay) concern the delay of
transported data through the entire GPRS network (the first two columns refer to data
packets 128 bytes in length, while the last two columns apply to packets 1024 bytes
in length).

Delay Class mean transfer
delay (sec)
95% delay
(sec)
mean transfer
delay (sec)
95% delay
(sec)
1 < 0,5 < 1,5 < 2 < 7
2 < 5 < 25 < 15 < 75
3 < 50 < 250 < 75 < 375
4 (Best Effort) unspecified unspecified unspecified unspecified


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
17

Precedence Class
1: high priority
2: normal priority
3: low priority
Delay Class mean transfer
delay (sec)
95% delay
(sec)
mean transfer
delay (sec)
95% delay
(sec)
1 < 0,5 < 1,5 < 2 < 7
2 < 5 < 25 < 15 < 75
3 < 50 < 250 < 75 < 375
4 (Best Effort) unspecified unspecified unspecified unspecified
Delay Class
SDU size: 128 Byte 1024 Byte
minimum
requirements

Fig. 8 QoS is an assumption of several parameters, which are defined in the recommendations

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
18

Reliability Class

Transmission reliability is defined with respect to the probability of data loss, data de-
livery beyond/outside the sequence, twofold data delivery, and data falsification
(probabilities 10
-2
to 10
-9
):. 5 reliability classes (1 to 5) have been defined, 1 guaran-
teeing the highest and 5 the lowest degree of reliability. Highest reliability (Class 1) is
required for error-sensitive, non-real-time applications, which have no possibility of
compensating for data loss; lowest reliability (Class 5) is needed for real-time applica-
tions which can get over data loss.

Peak Throughput Class

The peak throughput class defines the maximum data rate to be expected (in
bytes/s). However, there is no guarantee that this data rate/throughput can be
achieved over a certain period of time. This depends on the capacity of the MS and
the availability of radio resources. 9 throughput classes have been defined, ranging
from Class 1 with 1000 bytes/s (8 kbit/s) to 256,000 bytes (2048 kbit/s). The maxi-
mum data rate doubles from one class to the next.

Mean Throughput Class

The mean throughput class represents the mean data rate /throughput to be ex-
pected for data transport via the GPRS network during an activated link. A total of 19
classes have been defined. Class 1 is best effort and means that the data rate for
the MS is made available on the basis of demand and availability of resources.
Class 2 stands for 100 bytes/h (0.22 bit/s), class 3 for 200 bytes/h, class 4 for 500
bytes/h and class 5 for 1000 bytes/h, etc. till Class 19 which stands for 50000000
bytes/h (111 kbit/s).


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
19

Reliability Class
1 - 5 (lowest):
data loss probability
out of sequence probability
duplicate probability
corrupt data probability
probabilities 10
-9
- 10
-2
peak throughput Class
1 - 9: > 8 kbit /s - >2048 kbit /s
maximum data rate
no guarantee for this data rates
over a longer period of time
mean throughput Class
medium, guaranteed data rate; Class 1-19
1: best effort
100 Byte/h (0,22 bit/s) / 200 / 500 / 1000 / ... /
50 Mio. Byte/h (111 kbit/s)

Fig. 9 QoS is an assumption of several parameters, which are defined in the recommendations

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
20


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
21

3 GPRS-Architecture

Architecture
GPRS

Fig. 10

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
22

3.1 GPRS Architecture
For introducing GPRS, the logical GSM architecture is extended by two functional
units:

The Serving GPRS Support Node SGSN is on the same hierarchic level as MSC
and has functions comparable to those of a Visited MSC (VMSC).
The Gateway GPRS Support Node GGSN has functions comparable with those of a
Gateway MSC (GMSC) and offers interworking functions for establishing contact be-
tween the GSM/GPRS-PLMN and external packet data networks PDN
A GPRS Support Node GSN includes the central functions required to support the
GPRS. One PLMN can contain one or more GSNs.
In addition to GSN, extensions of functions in other GSM functional units are neces-
sary:
In the BSS a Packet Control Unit PCU ensures the reception/adaptation of packet
data from SGSN into BSS and vice versa.
GPRS subscriber data are added to the HLR. On the following pages of this script
this extension will be termed GPRS Register GR.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
23

Channel Codec Unit CCU
in BTS
for channel coding
Mobile
DTE
SGSN
Serving GPRS
Support Node
PSTN
Internet
Intranet
X.25
GGSN
Gateway GPRS
Support Node
VMSC /
VLR
GMSC
HLR
New network entities:
SGSN
(access to BSS)
GGSN
(access to PDN)
GPRS - Architecture
ISDN
PCU
BSS
GPRS subscription data
(GPRS Register GR)
Packet Control Unit PCU
for
protocol conversion &
radio resource
management

Fig. 11 Outline of the GPRS architecture

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
24

3.2 GSM Phase 2+, Interfaces
Integration of functions GGSN and SGSN (which are necessary for GPRS) into a
GSM-PLMN makes it necessary to provide names for a series of new interfaces in
addition to interfaces A-G already defined in the GSM-PLMN:
Gb - between an SGSN and a BSS; Gb allows the exchange of signaling and user
data: Unlike the A-interface, in which a user is assigned a certain physical resource
for the entire/full duration of a connection, on Gb a resource is only assigned in case
of activity (i. e. when data are being transmitted/received). A large number of sub-
scribers use the same physical resources. The same holds for interfaces Gi, Gn and
Gp.
Gc - between a GGSN and an HLR
Gd - between an SMS-GMSC / SMS-IWMSC and an SGSN
Gf - between an SGSN and an EIR
Gi - between GPRS and an external packet data network PDN
Gn - between two GPRS support nodes GSN within the same PLMN
Gp - between two GSN located in different PLMNs. The Gp interface allows the sup-
porting of GPRS services over an area of cooperating GPRS PLMNs.
Gr - between an SGSN and an HLR
Gs - between an SGSN and an MSC/VLR; serves to support an MS using both
GPRS and circuit switched services (e.g. update of location information).


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
25

PSTN
X.25
Common GSM/GPRS/UMTS Network:
Interfaces, Network Elements
ISDN
IP
IWF/TC: Interworking Function / Transcoder
IWF/
TC
A
G
b
I
u(PS)
G
i
GMSC
GGSN
GSM Phase 2+
Core Network
MSC
SGSN
HLR/AC EIR CSE
I
u(CS)
A
G
n
T
R
A
U
B
S
C
BTS
BTS
A
bis
UE
(USIM)
U
u
U
m
MS
(SIM)
E
SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC
E
G
d
GSM BSS
A
sub
G
s
G
r G
c
UMTS
Terrestrial
Radio
Access
Network
G
f
VLR
SLR

Fig. 12 Common GSM/GPRS/UMTS core network, coexistence of two radio access networks (GSM BSS/UTRAN)

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
26

3.3 New Network Elements for GPRS
3.3.1 Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) Functions
SGSN realizes a large number of functions for performing GPRS services.
SGSN is on the same hierarchic level as an MSC and handles many functions com-
parable to a Visited MSC (VMSC).
SGSN
is the node serving GPRS mobile stations in a region assigned to it;
traces the location of the respective GPRS MSs (Mobility Management functions);
is responsible for the paging of MS;
performs security functions and access control (authentication/cipher setting proce-
dures,...) Procedures are based on the same algorithm, ciphers and criteria as in the
former GSM. Ciphering algorithms have been optimized for the transmission of
packet data;
has routing/traffic-management functions;
collects data connected with fees/charges;
realizes the interfaces to GGSN (Gn), PCU (Gb), other PLMNs (Gp), HLR (Gr),
VLR (Gs), SMS-GMSC (Gd), EIR (Gf).

3.3.2 Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) Functions
GGSN realizes functions comparable to those of a gateway MSC.
GGSN
is the node allowing contact/interworking between a GSM PLMN and a packet
data network PDN (realization Gi-interface);
contains the routing information for GPRS subscribers available in the PLMN.
Routing information serves to contact the respective SGSN in the providing area of
which an MS is momentarily located;
has a screening function;
can inquire about location informations from the HLR via the optional Gc interface
transfers data/signaling to SGSN via Gn interface.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
27

GGSN
SGSN & GGSN
SGSN
Serving GPRS Support Node SGSN
serves MSs in SGSN area
Mobility Management functions, e.g
Update Location, Attach, Paging,..
Security and access control:
Authentication, Cipher setting, IMEI Check...
New cipher algorithm
Routing / Traffic-Management
collecting charging data
realises Interfaces: Gn, Gb, Gd, Gp, Gr, Gs, Gf
controls subscribers in its service area (SLR)
Gateway GPRS Support Node GGSN
Gi-,Gn-Interface: Interworking PLMN PDN
Routing Information for attached GPRS user
Screening / Filtering
optional Gc interface

Fig. 13 Tasks of GGSN and SGSN

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
28

3.3.3 Physical Realization SGSN/GGSN
SGSN and GGSN functions, respectively, can be located within the same physical
unit or at different locations in different physical units. SGSN and GGSN include the
internet protocol (IP) routing function and can be linked together/Interconnected with
IP routers (IP-based GPRS backbone network for Gn). The same holds for the Gp in-
terface (SGSN and GGSN in different PLMNs); in addition there are safety functions
for inter-PLMN communication.

HLR (GPRS Register GR)
HLR includes the GPRS subscriber information (GPRS Register GR) and routing in-
formation. Access to HLR is possible from SGSN via Gr and from GGSN via Gc inter-
face.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
29

SGSN & GGSN:
physical location
External
IP Network
GGSN
SGSN
HLR (GR)
BSS
PCU
GPRS-MS
MSC/VLR
BSS
PCU
HLR:
GPRS subscriber data
(GPRS Register GR)
Routing information
Gb
Gb
Gi
Gr Gs
SGSN & GGSN
in same
physical entity
SGSN
GGSN
SGSN
GGSN
GGSN
BSS
PCU
GPRS-MS
BSS
PCU
External
X.25 Network
IP-based
Backbone
Network
Gn
Gp
Security functions
for Inter-PLMN
communication
other
PLMN
SGSN & GGSN
in different
physical entities /
location
External
IP Network

Fig. 14 Different physical locations of SGSN and GGSN

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
30

3.3.4 Packet Control Unit PCU
In the BSS, the PCU serves
for the management of GPRS radio channels (Radio Channel Management func-
tions), e.g. power control, congestion control, broadcast control information
for the temporal organization of the packet data transfer for uplink and downlink
it has channel access control functions, e.g. access request and grants
it serves for converting protocols from the Gb interface to the radio interface Um.
Three options for positioning the PCU are provided in Rec. 03.60:
Option A: In the BTS
Option B: in the BSC
Option C: In spatial connection with the SGSN
The different positions may be used due to the different solutions of the vendors and
with regard to the traffic, which has to be handled by the PCU/BSS.

3.3.5 Channel Codec Unit CCU
The CCU contains the following functions:
Channel coding, including forward error correction FEC and interleaving
Radio channel measurements, including received quality and signal level, timing ad-
vance measurements


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
31

CCU
CCU
PCU
BTS BSC site GSN site
CCU
CCU
CCU
CCU
PCU
PCU
A
B
C
optional:
PCU-location
PCU, CCU, GPRS - MS
Um Abis
Gb
MS
MS
MS
Packet Control Unit PCU
Channel Access Control functions
Radio Channel Management functions
(Power Control, Congestion Control,...)
scheduling data transmission (UL/DL)
protocol conversion (Gb Um)
Gb
Channel Codec Unit CCU
Channel Coding (FEC, Interleaving,..)
Radio Channel Measurementfuncions
(received quality & signal level, TA,..)

Fig. 15 Positioning of the new network elements in the GSM BSS

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
32

3.3.6 GPRS Mobile Stations MS
A GPRS MS can work in three different operational modes. The operational mode
depends on the service an MS is attached to (GPRS or GPRS and other GSM ser-
vices) and on the mobile stations capacity of simultaneously handling GPRS and
other GSM services.
Class A operational mode: The MS is attached to GPRS and other GMS services
and the MS supports the simultaneous handling of GPRS and other GSM services.
Class B operational mode: The MS is attached to GPRS and other GMS services,
but the MS cannot handle them simultaneously.
Class C operational mode: The MS is attached exclusively to GPRS services.

Note: Various GSM specifications use the terms GPRS Class-A MS, GPRS Class-B
MS, GPRS Class-C MS.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
33

GPRS-Mobile Station
Class A
Simultaneously handling
of GPRS and other
GSM services
Class B
GPRS and GSM
services but not
simultaneously
Class C
Only GPRS services

Fig. 16 GPRS mobile stations

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
34


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
35

4 Logical Functions

Logical Functions
GPRS

Fig. 17

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
36

4.1 Logical Functions in the GPRS Network
The tasks required for the handling of processes in the GSM-/GPRS network are
structured into logical functions. These functions may contain a large number of indi-
vidual functions. Logical functions are:
Network access control functions
Packet routing and transfer functions
Mobility management functions
Logical link management functions
Network management functions.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
37

Logical functions
in GPRS networks
Network Access
Control
Functions
Mobility
Management
Functions
Radio Resource
Management
Functions
Packet Routeing
& Transfer
Functions
Logical Link
Management
Functions
Network
Management
Functions

Fig. 18 Logical functions of the GPRS network


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
38

4.1.1 Network Access Control Functions
Network access means the way or manner in which a subscriber gains access to a
telecommunication network to make use of the services this network provides. An
access protocol consists of a defined set of procedures, which makes access to the
network possible. Network access can be obtained both from the MS and from the
fixed network part of the GPRS network. Depending on the provider, the interface to
external data networks can support various access protocols, e.g. IP or X.25. The fol-
lowing functions have been defined for access to the GPRS network:
Registration function: Registration stands for linking the identity of the mobile radio
subscriber to his packet data protocol (or protocols), the PLMN-internal addresses
and the point of access of the user to external data Protocol (PDP) networks. This
link can be static (HLR entry), or it can be effected on demand.
Authentication and authorization function: This function stands for the identifica-
tion of the subscriber and for access legitimacy when a service is demanded. In addi-
tion, the legitimacy of the use of this particular service is controlled. The authentica-
tion function is carried out in conjunction with the mobility management functions.
Admission control function: Admission control is intended for determining the net-
work resources required for performing the desired service (QoS). It also decides
whether these resources are available, and lastly it is used for reserving resources.
Admission control is effected in conjunction with the radio resource management
functions to enable assessment of radio resources requirements in each individual
cell.
Message screening function: A "screening" function is combined with the filtering of
unauthorized or undesirable information/messages. In the introduction stage of
GPRS a network-controlled screening function is supported. Subscription-controlled
and user-controlled screening may be additionally provided at a later stage.
Packet terminal adaptation function: This function adapts data packets re-
ceived/transmitted from/to the terminal equipment TE to a form suited for transport
through the GPRS network.
Charging data collection function: This function is used for collecting data required
for billing


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
39

Network Access Control Function
Registration:
Users mobile ID associated with
*users PDP
*address
*access points
Authentication &
Authorisation
*user
*requested services
Admission Control
*required resources
(available resouces)
(reservation of resources)
Message Screening
Filters unsolicited and
unauthorised messages
Packet Terminal Adaption
Adaption of data packets
between
MS-TE and GPRS-network
Charging Data Collection
Subscription fees + traffic fees

Fig. 19 Network access control functions

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
40

4.1.2 Packet Routing and Transfer Functions
A route consists of an orderly list of nodes used for the transfer of messages within
and between the PLMNs. Each route consists of the node of origin, no node, one or
several relay nodes, and the node of destination. Routing is the process of determin-
ing and using the route for the transmission of a message within or between PLMNs.
Relay function: Transferring data received by a node from another node to the next
node of the route.
*Routing function: Determining the transmission path for the next hop on the route
towards the GPRS support node (GSN) the message is intended for. Data transmis-
sion between GSNs can be effected via external data networks possessing their own
routing functions; e. g. X.25, Frame Relay or ATM networks.
Address translation and mapping function: Address translation means transforming
one address into another, different address. It can be used to transform addresses of
external network protocols into internal network addresses (for routing purposes).
Address mapping is used to copy a network address into another network address of
the same type (e.g. for the routing and transmitting of messages from one network
node to the next).
Encapsulation function: Encapsulation means supplementing address- and control in-
formation into one data unit for the routing of packets within or between PLMNs. The
opposite process is called decapsulation. Encapsulation and decapsulation is ef-
fected between the GSN of the GPRS-PLMN as well as between the SGSN and the
MS.
Tunneling Function: Tunneling means the transfer of encapsulated data units in the
PLMN. A tunnel is a two-way point-to-point path, only the endpoints of which are
identified.
Compression function: for the optimal use of radio link capacity.
Ciphering function: preventing eavesdropping
Domain name server function: Decoding logical GSN names in GSN addresses. This
function is a standard function of the internet.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
41

Packet Routing & Transfer Function
Relay
forward data packets
Routing
next hop
Address Mapping
&Translation
Encapsulation
Tunneling
Compression
Ciphering
Domain Name
Server

Fig. 20 Packet routing and transfer functions in the GPRS network

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
42

4.1.3 Mobility Management Functions
Mobility management functions are used to enable tracing the actual location of a
mobile station in either the home-PLMN or a Visited-PLMN.
4.1.4 Logical Link Management Functions
Logical link management functions concern maintenance of a communication chan-
nel between an MS and the PLMN via the radio interface Um. These functions in-
clude the coordination of link state information between the MS and the PLMN and
the monitoring of data transfer activities via the logical link.
Logical link establishment function: Building up a logical link by during GPRS at-
tach.
Logical link maintenance function: Monitoring of the state of the logical link and
state modification control.
Logical link release function: De-allocation of resources associated with the logical
link.
4.1.5 Radio Resource Management Functions
Radio resource management functions include allocation and maintenance of com-
munication channels via the radio interface. The GSM radio resources must be di-
vided /distributed between circuit switched services and GPRS.
Um management function: Managing available physical channels of cells and de-
termining the share of radio resources allocated for use in the GPRS. This share may
vary from cell to cell.
Cell selection function: Allows the MS to select the optimal cell for a communication
path. This includes measurement and evaluation of the signal quality of neighboring
cells and detection and avoidance of overload in the eligible cells.
Um-tranx function: Offers capacity for packet data transfer via Um. The function in-
cludes a. o. procedures for multiplexing packets via shared physical channels, for re-
taining packets in the MS, for error detection and correction, and for flow control.
Path management function: Management of packet data communication between
BSS and serving GSN node. Establishing and canceling these paths can be effected
either dynamically (amount of traffic data) or statically (maximum load to be expected
for each cell).
4.1.6 Network Management Functions
Network management functions provide mechanisms for the support of GPRS-
related operation & maintenance functions.


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
43

Maintenance of communication channel,
co-ordination Link state information & supervision of
data transfer activity over the logical link MS - SGSN
Logical Link Establishment
Logical Link Maintenance
Logical Link Release
Keep track of current MS-location
Mobility Management Functions
Allocation & maintenance of radio communication path
Um Management: manage resources GPRS / non GPRS
Cell Selection:select optimal cell (by MS)
Um-tranx: MAC via Um, user multiplexing, packet discrimination
within MS, error detection & correction, flow control procedures
Path Management:
manages packet data communication
BSSSGSN
(dynamic data traffic or static)
Radio Resource
Management Functions
mechanism to support O&M
functions related to GPRS
Network Management
Functions
Logical Link
Management Functions

Fig. 21 Mobility management, logical link, radio resource and network management functions

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
44

4.2 Allocation of Logical Functions
The tasks described in the logical functions can be allocated to various functional
units of the GSM-/GPRS network. The mobile station MS, the base station subsys-
tem BSS (with the packet control unit PCU and channel codec unit CCU), the serving
GPRS support node SGSN and the gateway GPRS support node GGSN participate
in handling the following functions:


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
45

Function MS BSS SGSN GGSN HLR
Network Access Control:

Registration X
Authentication & Authorization X X X
Admission Control X X X
Message Screening X
Packet Terminal Adaptation X
Charging Data Collection X X
Packet Routing & Transfer:
Relay X X X X
Routing X X X X
Address Translation & Mapping X X X
Encapsulation X X X
Tunneling X X
Compression X X
Ciphering X X X
Domain Name Server X
Mobility Management X X X X
Logical Link Management:
Logical Link Establishment X X
Logical Link Maintenance X X
Logical Link Release X X
Radio Resource Management:
Um Management X X
Cell Selection X X
Um-Tranx X X
Path Management X X


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
46


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
47

5 Exercises


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
48


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
49

Exercise
Title:
GPRS-General Packet Radio Service

Task
Please tick one answer. More than one answer can be correct
Query
1. Advantages of GPRS are:
transmission of higher data rates
direct access to the IP-network
resource efficiency
all above

2. GPRS subscriber profile contains:
packet network address
IMSI
P-TMSI
routing area

3. True/False
The packet network address is necessary to identify the subscriber's location
area
The packet network address is necessary to identify the cell of one subscriber
The screening profile limits reception of data packets
The GGSN address identifies verify the access to the correct SSGN

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
50

4. The QoS-Profile consist of:
delay class
IP-address
throughput class
IMSI

5. True/False
With GPRS it is also possible to transport real time data
With GPRS you can only transmit speech data
With GPRS it is only possible to transmit non real time data
With GPRS it is only possible to transmit data

6. Delay class 1 means:
95% of the data have a shorter delay than 2 s
the mean transfer delay is shorter than 7 s
the mean transfer delay is unspecified

7. Which new HW-elements have to be implemented for GPRS?
PCU, CCU and SGSN
CCU, PCU GGSN
PCU, SGSN, GGSN
SGSN, GGSN, CAP

8. The PCU is responsible for:
charging
ciphering
radio resource management
access to the Internet

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
51

9. Which of the following paths are correct considering "element-interface-
element"?
BSC - A - SGSN
BSC - Gb - SGSN
SGSN - Gi - GGSN
SGSN - Gs - GGSN
SGSN - Gn - GGSN

10. A routing area
is a part of the cell
is a part of the location area
consists of several location areas
consists of several VLR-areas

11. Which of the following is not a task of the GGSN:
ciphering
interworking PLNM - PDN
screening/filtering

12. True/False
To use GPRS a GPRS mobile phone is needed
GPRS can be also implemented virtually, in the HLR only as GR
The only major difference between HSCSD and GPRS is the number of coding
schemes
GRPS is a necessary step for operators who want to keep the GSM NSS when
introducing UMTS

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
52

13. Which one is not correct:
The CCU is only a SW-modification
The CCU is a new HW-element
The CCU is responsible for the new coding schemes
The CCU is implemented in the BTS

14. Logical function in the GPRS network are:
packet routing and transfer functions
QoS-function
network access control functions
mobility management function
all of the answers are correct

15. Tunneling means
transfer of decapsulated data
transfer of data over the air interface
transfer of encapsulated data
transfer of data inside IP-network

16. Routing function means:
transfer of data from one node to another node
transfer of data on the air interface
determining the transmission path for the next "hop"
none of the above is correct

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
53

17. Network access control function contains:
registration
compressing of data
Um-management
path management
admission control
routing

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
54


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
55

6 Solutions

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
56


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
57

Solution
Title:
GPRS-General Packet Radio Services

1. Advantages of GPRS are:
transmission of higher data rates
direct access to the IP-network
resource efficiency
all above

2. GPRS subscriber profile contains:
packet network address
IMSI
P-TMSI
routing area

3. True/False
The packet network address is necessary to identify the subscriber's location
area
The packet network address is necessary to identify the cell of one subscriber
The screening profile limits reception of data packets
The GGSN address identifies verify the access to the correct SSGN

4. The QoS-Profile consist of:
delay class
IP-address
throughput class
IMSI

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
58

5. True/False
With GPRS it is also possible to transport real time data
With GPRS you can only transmit speech data
With GPRS it is only possible to transmit non real time data
With GPRS it is only possible to transmit data

6. Delay class 1 means:
the mean transfer delay is shorter than 7 s
the mean transfer delay is unspecified

7. Which new HW-elements have to be implemented for GPRS?
PCU, CCU and SGSN
CCU, PCU GGSN
PCU, SGSN, GGSN
SGSN, GGSN, CAP

8. The PCU is responsible for:
charging
ciphering
radio resource management
access to the Internet

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
59

9. Which of the following paths are correct considering "element-interface-
element"?
BSC - A - SGSN
BSC - Gb - SGSN
SGSN - Gi - GGSN
SGSN - Gs - GGSN
SGSN - Gn - GGSN

10. A routing area
is a part of the cell
is a part of the location area
consists of several location areas
consists of several VLR-areas

11. Which of the following is not a task of the GGSN:
ciphering
interworking PLNM - PDN
screening/filtering

12. 12.True/False
To use GPRS a GPRS mobile phone is needed
GPRS can be also implemented virtually, in the HLR only as GR
The only major difference between HSCSD and GPRS is the number of coding
schemes
GRPS is a necessary step for operators who want to keep the GSM NSS when
introducing UMTS

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
60

13. Which one is not correct:
The CCU is only a SW-modification
The CCU is a new HW-element
The CCU is responsible for the new coding schemes
The CCU is implemented in the BTS

14. Logical function in the GPRS network are:
packet routing and transfer functions
QoS-function
network access control functions
mobility management function
all of the answers are correct

15. Tunneling means
transfer of decapsulated data
transfer of data over the air interface
transfer of encapsulated data
transfer of data inside IP-network

16. Routing function means:
transfer of data from one node to another node
transfer of data on the air interface
determining the transmission path for the next "hop"
none of the answer is correct

TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
61

17. Network access control function contains:
registration
compressing of data
Um-management
path management
admission control
routing


TM2110EU01TM_0004
2002 Sidemen's AG
62

02 Tm2110eu01tm 0004 Gprs

Caricato da

Informazioni sul documento

Titolo originale

Copyright

Formati disponibili

Condividi questo documento

Condividi o incorpora il documento

Opzioni di condivisione

Hai trovato utile questo documento?

Questo contenuto è inappropriato?

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

02 Tm2110eu01tm 0004 Gprs

Caricato da

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

GPRS - General Packet Radio Services Sidemen's

Potrebbero piacerti anche