Abdisalam Thesis

UNIVERSITY OF HORMUUD
DECLARATION OF THESIS / UNDERGRADUATE PROJECT PAPER AND COPYRIGHT
Authors full names:
Title
ABDISALAM ABDULAHI MOHAMED

ABDIRAHMAN MOHAMED OMAR
ALISALAD ALASOW MOHAMED
:
INTRA-BSC HANDOVER OPTIMIZATION FOR GSM

QUALITY OF SERVICE IMPROVEMENT
Academic Session
2014/2015
I declare that this thesis is classified as:
CONFIDENTIAL
(Contains confidential information)
RESTRICTED
(Contains restricted information as specified

by the organization where research was done)
OPEN ACCESS
I agree that my thesis to be published as

online open access (full text)
We acknowledged that University of Hormuud reserves the right as

follows:
1.
2.
3.
1. The thesis is the property of University of Hormuud.

2. The Library of University of Hormuud has the right to make
copies for the purpose of research only.
3. The Library has the right to make copies of the thesis for
academic exchange.
4.
Certified by:
SIGNATURE OF SUPERVISOR
BURHAN OMAR SHEIKH AHMED
NAME OF SUPERVISOR
Date: 1ST August 2015
ii
I hereby declare that I have read this project report and in my

opinion this project report is sufficient in terms of scope and quality for the
award of the degree of Bachelor of Engineering (Telecommunication)
Signature
...................................................
Name of Supervisor
BURHAN OMAR SHEIKH AHMED
Date
1st August, 2015
iii
INTRA-BSC HANDOVER OPTIMIZATION FOR GSM QUALITY OF SERVICE

IMPROVEMENT
ABDISALAM ABDULAHI MOHAMED

ABDIRAHMAN MOHAMED OMAR
ALISALAD ALASOW MOHAMED
A project report submitted in partial fulfilment of the

requirements for the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Engineering (Telecommunication)
Faculty of Engineering
Department of Electrical and Electronics
University of Hormuud
AUGUST 2015
iv
We declare that this project report entitled Intra-BSC handover optimization for
GSM quality of service improvement is the result of our own research except as
cited in the references. The project report has not been accepted for any degree and
is not concurrently submitted in candidature of any other degree.
Signature : ....................................................
Name
: Abdisalam Abdulahi Mohamed
Signature : ....................................................
Name
: Abdirahman Mohamed Omar
Signature : ....................................................
Name
: Alisalad Alasow Mohamed
Date
: 1st August, 2015
Unusual dedicated to our ALLAH, Parents and friends for support, encouragement
and motivation through our education.
vi
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Thanks to ALLAH for all blesses
The first big thanks and appreciation goes to our brilliant supervisor Eng.
Burhan Omar Sheikh Ahmed for his tremendous work and help on this project, also
for his superb encouragement, provision and useful suggestions throughout this thesis
work.
Our sincere thanks also goes to the administration and the staff of Radio
Network Optimization and Planning department of Hormuud telecom Somalia for
providing us an opportunity to join their teams in their field operations and frankly
giving us access to their live-network vital information and research facilities.
Without their precious support, it could not be possible to conduct this study at all.
Most importantly, we feel great pleasure and honor to express a heart full
gratitude to our beloved parents as their support and encouragement was in the end
what made this final project possible and without their sacrifices in both moral and
financial support, the completion of this thesis would have been a measly dream.
vii
ABSTRACT
Mobile terminals allow subscribers to access services while on the move. This
exclusive feature has driven the fast growth in the mobile network industry, shifting
it from a new technology into a huge industry within less than two decades.
Handover is the essential functionality for dealing with the mobility of the
mobile users; in GSM network, handover can occur in all network levels, but one kind
with an extra importance is that occurs between different base stations under one base
station controller (intra-BSC handover), this thesis study, however, investigates intraBSC handover glitches in GSM network and comes up with invaluable
recommendations to optimize those blenders. The data is collected through drive test
by using TEMS (Test Mobile Systems) investigation conducted in the study area. The
collected data has being analyzed and examined strictly focusing on handover
optimization metrics such as handover failures and unnecessary handovers and lately,
possible way-outs are provided.
viii
TABLE OF CONTENT
CHAPTER
TITLE
PAGES
DECLARATION
ii
DEDICATION
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
vi
ABSTRACT
vii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
viii
LIST OF FIGURES
xii
LIST OF TABLES
xiii
LIST OF ABREVIATIONS
xiv
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Background of the study
1.2
Problem statement
1.3
Research objectives
1.3.1
Specific research objectives
1.4
Hypothesis of the study
1.5
Significance of the study
1.6
Significance of the study
1.7
Organisation of the thesis
BACKGROUND AND LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1
Introduction
2.2
Background and overview
2.3
cellular concept
2.4
Global system for mobile communication (GSM)
2.4.1
GSM network architecture
2.4.2
GSM radio interface
10
2.4.3
GSM Channels
11
2.4.3.1 Physical channels
11
12
2.4.3.2.1 Broadcast control channel
ix
(BCCH)
2.5
12
2.4.3.2.2 Common Control Channel

(CCCH)
Radio resource management in cellular system (RRM)
13
13
2.5.1
Admission Control
13
2.5.2
Channel Allocation and bandwidth management
14
2.5.3
Power control
15
2.5.4
Handover
16
2.5.4.1 Requirements for GSM handover
17
2.5.4.2 Handover Management
17
2.5.4.3 Handover strategies
19
2.5.4.3.1 Network Controlled Handover

(NCHO)
19
2.5.4.3.2 Mobile Assisted Handover

(MAHO)
20
2.5.4.3.3 Mobile Controlled Handover

(MCHO)
2.5.4.4 GSM handover measurement
21
22
2.5.4.5 Handover schemes
23
2.5.4.5.1 Guard Channels
24
2.5.4.5.2 Queuing Handover Calls
24
2.5.4.5.3 Sub Rating Schemes
25
2.5.4.5.4 Generic Handover Schemes
25
2.5.4.5.5 Hybrid Handover Schemes
26
2.5.4.6 Handover Algorithm
26
2.5.4.6.1 Conventional Handover Algorithm
26
2.5.4.6.2 Velocity Based on Algorithm
27
2.5.4.6.3 Direction Biased algorithms
28
2.5.4.6.4 Signal Interference Based

Algorithm
2.5.4.6.5 Intelligent Handover Algorithms
28
28
2.5.4.7 Performance metrics for Handover
29
2.5.4.8 Types of handover
30
2.5.4.8.1 Hard handover (HHO)
30
2.5.4.8.2 Soft handover (SHO)
30
2.6
GSM network Evaluation criteria
2.7
Key Performance Indicators assessment and QOS
32
2.8
Estimation
32
Radio network planning and optimization
33
2.8.1
Radio network planning and optimization follow
33
2.8.2
GSM radio network optimization
35
2.8.2.1 Intra-BSC Handover optimization
36
GSM Network optimization tools
36
2.8.3
2.9
Literature review
37
2.10
Summary
39
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND MATERIALS

3.1
Introduction
40
3.2
Drive Test Overview
42
3.3
GSM Network Drive Testing
42
3.4
Important KPIs and Their Implications
43
3.5
Network optimization tools
44
3.7
Implemented Action Plan
46
3.7.1
Geographic Description of the Propagation Terrain
46
3.7.2
Data Collection Process
47
3.7.3
Drive Test Survey Route
48
3.8
Summary
48
RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

4.1
Introduction
49
4.2
Observed cases and their corresponding analysis
51
4.2.1
Hand failure due to lack of resources
51
4.2.1.1 Event description
51
Hand failure due to missing neighbor
52
52
4.2.2
4.2.2.2 Recommended solution for missing

Neighbor HO failure
4.2.3
4.2.4
52
One way Neighbor
53
53
4.2.3.2 Recommended solution for one way

Neighbor HO failure
Ping Pong
53
54
54
4.2.4.2 Recommended solution for Ping-Pong HO
54
xi
4.2.5
Lack of late Handover
55
55
4.3
Drive test KPI Reports
56
4.4
Summary
56
CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK

5.1
Conclusion
57
5.2
Future Work
58
REFERENCES
59
APPENDICES A-B
61-62
xii
LIST OF FIGURE
FIGURE NO.
TITLE
PAGES
2.1
2.2
GSM Cellular Layout for Frequency Reuse
15
2.3
handover process
18
2.4
MAHO inter BS message flow
21
2.5
MCHO inter-BS message follow
22
2.6
Signal levels for handover
27
2.7
Comparison between hard and soft handover
31
2.8
Radio network planning optimization flow
33
2.9
Network optimization procedure
35
3.1
General radio network optimization flow
41
3.2
Drive Test Data Collection Set Up
45
3.3
Aerial view of the target area (Siliga, Mogadishu)
46
3.4
Drive test coverage plot
48
4.1
Handover failure for lack of resources
51
4.2
Hand Failure Due to Missing Neighbor
52
4.3
Hand failure due to one way neighbor
53
4.4
Ping-Pong
54
4.4
smooth handover case
55
xiii
LIST OF TABLE
TABLE NO.
TITLE
PAGES
2.1
First Generation deployed countries
3.1
Selected serving sectors of the base station
47
4.1
Target area and all serving sectors of the base station
50
4.2
TEMS generated report
56
xiv
LIST OF ABBREVIATION
1G
First Generation
2G
Second Generation
3G
Third Generation
3GPP
Third Generation Partnership Project
4G
Fourth Generation
AMPS
Advance Mobile Phone Service
ANSI
American National Standards Institute
ARFCN
Absolute Radio Frequency Channel Number
AT&T
American Telephone & Telegraph
AuC
Authentication center
BS
Base Station
BSC
Base Station Controller
BSIC
Base station identity codes
BSS
Base Station Subsystem
BTS
Base Station Transceiver
C/I
Carrier to Interference ratio
CDMA
Code Division Multiple Access
DECT
Digital Enhanced Cordless

Telecommunications
EIR
Equipment Identity Register
ETACS
Extended Total Access Communications
ETSI
European Telecommunications Standards

Institute
FDMA
Frequency Division Multiple Access
FM
Frequency modulation
GMSK
Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying
GPS
Global Positioning System
GSM
Global System for Mobile
HLR
Home Location Register
HSR
Handover Success Rate
xv
IEEE
Institute of Electrical and Electronics

Engineering
IETF
Internet Engineering Task Force
IMEI
international mobile equipment identity
ITU
International Telecommunication Union
KPI
Key Performance Indicator
LA
Local Area
LTE
Long Term Evolution
MAHO
Mobile Assisted Handover
MCHO
Mobile Controlled Handover
MSC
Mobile Switching Center
MSK
Minimum shift keying
NCHO
Network Controlled Handover
NMT
Nordic Mobile Telephone
NPS
Non-Prioritized Schemes
NTT
Nippon Telephone and Telegraph
OMC
Operation and Maintenance Center
PSTN
Public Switching Telephone Network
QoS
Quality-of-Service
RNO
Radio Frequency Network Optimization
RSSI
Received Signal Strength Indication
SIM
Subscriber Identity Module
SNR
Signal to noise ratio
SQI
Speech Quality Index
TACS
Total Access Communication System
TCH
Traffic Channel.
TDMA
Time Division Multiple Access
TEMS
Transmission Evaluation and Monitoring

System
UMTS
Universal Mobile Telephone Service
VLR
Visitor Location Register
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the study
More freedom for movement is the competitive advantage for cellular

networks over their preceding ones. For the side of the service providers, customer
satisfaction has a paramount importance whereas subscribers need is better quality
service. To meet that need, overall mobile network is subdivide into cells with better
coverage. Another challenge, however has arisen as the mobile subscribers begin to
cross from cell to cell during active session (on call); mobility management become
an agenda with greater importance in the telecommunication arenas. Transferring an
ongoing call from serving cell to a neighboring one become the best solution. Live
session transfer process is called handover or handoff [1].
In GSM, handover is an important entity in the list of network performance

indicators as Mobility is the most important feature of a wireless cellular
communication system. Usually, Continuous service is achieved by supporting
handover from one cell to another [2]. Handover processes are performed by all
cellular telecommunications networks and it is a core element of the whole concept
of cellular telecommunications [3]. If a handover process fails; it causes a
phenomenon called call dropping which means terminating the call as the subscriber
is in the middle of conversation because of lack of/weakening connection to serving
Base Station (BS) [4]. Thus, a study on handover improves system quality.
2
1.2 Problem Statement
In our country, the sector of technology have been suffering for so long from
lack of enough human resource to keep up with the unfolding technological
advancements of the world. Telecom industry, however, was not exceptional and there
was almost no prior research or study conducted in the field of GSM optimization
overall and the issue of handover in particular, all these issues give room for the local
researchers to conduct some sort of study on this deprived field.
Handover is extremely vital in cellular network because of the cellular

architecture employed to maximize spectrum utilization as users move through the
coverage area of cellular system. One way to develop the cellular network
performance is to use efficient handover prioritization schemes when a user is
switching between the cells [5, 6]. The continuation of an active call is also considered
as one of the most important quality measurements in cellular systems [1]. The above
mentioned importance of handover asserted by the prior studies justifies the need for
conducting study on handover related scenarios.
The idea behind this study come to exist after members of the research team
attended a vocational training at the Radio Network Optimization (RNO) department
of Hormuud telecom and worked with RNO teams in their field operation. During
their one month training, the research team become convinced with the need of
conducting a study on one of the most frequently occurring network glitches; IntraBSC handover, exploring answers for the possible causes of intra-BSC handover and
proposing their corresponding solutions.
1.3 Research objectives
The general objective of this study is to investigate overall handover problems

and propose possible recommendations. Some of the specific study objectives are
listed in the following section.
3
1.3.1
Specific research objectives
1. To Study over all handover process in 2G networks.

2. To investigate the problems that arise from intra-BSC handover failure in
GSM (2G) network.
3. To analyze intra-BSC handover related issues in 2G network in terms of voice
quality and interference.
4. To come up with a conclusion based on the study findings.
1.4 Hypothesis of the study
The research team has a lot to consider in commencing their work on the
selected area, the first study hypothesis is if there is a handover related problems in
the selected area, then there is all sorts of handover blunders.
1.5 Significance of the study
Handover is one of the major key performance indicators in every GSM

network and it is linked to the quality of service each service provider strives to attain.
The failure of any handover process is considered as another nail on the coffin of
customer satisfaction goals. This study, however, contributes more on improving
intra-BSC handover problems, helping GSM service providers to easily optimize their
network faults relating to handover. In addition to that, this study allows other
researchers interested in this field to take advantage of the results presented in this
study.
1.6 Scope and limitations of the Study
This study focuses on intra-BSC handover related cases occurring in the

selected area (Siliga area Wadajir district) served by BSs under one BSC for Hormuud
4
telecom Somalia. Other unrelated parameters are not considered in this study. The
weakness this study has is that the study is conducted on small number of BSs and for
more insight, the study area should be extended. The other service providers
networks are not also examined for further generalization on GSM network.
1.7 Organization of the thesis
Chapter two of this thesis work covers some vital concepts and theories related
in wireless mobile communication networks providing background and overview of
wireless networks, recapitulating different generations of wireless communication
systems, and basic concept of the cellular wireless networks and GSM in particular
going down to more handover concepts and related parameters. At last, it concludes
some of the major related works taken as literature and analyzed their approaches as
they relate.
Chapter three clearly portrays the method applied for that collection the
process using drive test methodology and some employed materials for the process.
Chapter four dissects the collected data through drive testing method, and
other relevant and assisting sources such BSC data and subsequently comes up with
some beneficial recommendations.
Chapter five summarizes the work in this thesis, draws a conclusion and
contributes some insights for the forthcoming future work.
CHAPTER 2
BACKGROUND AND LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
This chapter introduces background information on the development of mobile

radio communication starting from the early days of analog communication,
descending down to cellular concept and the deployment of GSM network. It also
presents deeper handover related concepts such as HO types, measurement, schemes
and algorithms. Over all GSM optimization techniques and criteria as well as
handover optimization procedures are also elaborated at the end of this chapter, some
Previous related works were also presented as a literature.
2.2 Background and overview
The history of wireless communications could be traced back to 1897 when

Gugliemo Marconi first experimented radios ability for providing continuous contact
with the ships sailing the English Channel and since then, new wireless
communications methods and services have been actively adopted by the people
around the world. Particularly in the last three decades, the mobile radio
communications industry has experienced exponential growth powered by digital and
RF circuit construction developments and other miniaturization technologies which
make handy radio smaller, cheaper and easy-to-use. These trends are anticipated to
progress with greater pace for the following decades [7].
6
By the beginning of the 20th century, wireless technologies experienced
greater developments although the capacity and the service quality was limited due to
the analog systems applied in the field. In 1950s and 1960s ATandT, Bell laboratories
and other telecommunication companies throughout the world developed the concept
of dividing the coverage area into smaller parts (cells) that could increase the spectrum
usage. But, that concept was first deployed by Advanced Mobile Phone Systems
(AMPS) in late 1983 [7].
Using frequency division multiple access together with very narrow

bandwidth is considered as the first milestone for the first generation (1G). Nippon
Telephone and Telegraph (NTT) in Japan, Nordic Mobile Telephones (NMT) and
Total Access Communication Systems (TACS) in Europe also made the same
systems. All these systems offered handover and roaming capabilities but couldnt
interoperate among them [8]. This was marked as one of the major downgrading
factors of 1G [5, 9].
Second-generation (2G) mobile systems supporting low bit rate data services
as well as the traditional speech service were developed in the end of 1980s.
Compared to first-generation systems, second-generation (2G) systems employ digital
multiple access technology, such as TDMA (time division multiple access) and
CDMA (code division multiple access). Therefore, compared with first generation
systems, higher spectrum efficiency, better data services, and more advanced roaming
were offered by 2G systems.
In Europe, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) was deployed

to offer a single unified standard. This enabled continuous services throughout Europe
by means of international roaming. Global System for Mobile Communications, or
GSM, uses FDMA together with TDMA technology to support multiple users during
development over more than 25 years, GSM technology has been continuously
improving to offer better services in the market [10]. The following table shows early
systems and the countries first deployed [10].
Table 2.1: First Generation deployed countries
System
Countries
NMT-450
Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Turkey, and Ukraine
NMT-900
Cambodia, Cyprus, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Finland,

France, Greenland, Netherlands, Norway, Belgium,
Bulgaria, Cambodia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Faroe Islands, Germany, Hungary, Iceland,
Indonesia, Italy, Serbia, Sweden, Switzerland, and
Thailand
TACS/ETACS Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, China, Hong Kong, Ireland,

Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Macao, Malaysia, Latvia, Lithuania,
Malaysia, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland,
Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Malta, Philippines, Singapore,
Spain, Sri Lanka, United Arab Emirates, and United
Kingdom
Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Brunei, Burma,
Cambodia, Canada, China, Georgia, Guam, Hong Kong,
AMPS
Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Mexico,

Mongolia, Nauru, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New
Guinea, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri
Lanka, Tajikistan, Taiwan, and Thailand
2.3 Cellular concept
At the beginning of radio mobile communication technology, spectrum

congestion was a major problem but it was not the only one, high power antennas
mounted at the top of high tower consuming more electric energy was another major
setback. The cellular concept became major breakthrough in solving those problems.
8
Cellular concept offered very high capacity in a limited spectrum allocation without
any major technological changes. It is system level concept calling for replacing single
high power transmitter with many low power transmitters with small portion of
system coverage area [7].
Each base station is assigned a portion of the total number of channels

available to the entire system, and nearby base stations are assigned different
frequencies to avoid interference. A number of neighboring BSs are grouped together
to form one cluster. Each cluster is allocated the whole channels available for the
entire system. Maintaining a distance called reuse distance, the same frequencies
could be used in different clusters throughout the coverage area [7, 11]. The area
covered by the one BS is called cell and modeled with hexagonal shape.
Mobile subscribers under the coverage area of a specific BS is served by that

BS it is attached to. Mobile radio communication, however, guarantees freedom of
movement for mobile subscribers. These movements may occur both in idle mode
(not on call) and dedicated mode (on call). When mobile subscriber at idle mode
crosses cell boarders, cell reselection process occurs. In contrast, a mobile subscriber
in a dedicated mode crossing cell boarders needs handover to be performed [12, 13].
2.4 Global system for mobile communication (GSM)
GSM is a second generation digital cellular system using digitized

transmission replacing earlier analog systems in order to enhance transmission
quality, system capacity, and coverage area. GSM operates basically on threefrequencies 900 MHz, 1800MHz and 1900MHz [5]. But the first two spectrums are
mainly used worldwide. To make efficient use of frequency bands, GSM uses a mix
of Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) and Time Division Multiple Access
(TDMA).
9
GSM uses Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying (GMSK) modulation scheme to
transmit information (data and signaling) over Air Interface. An MSK signal is created
by applying a half sinusoidal pulse instead of a square pulse. If a Gaussian pulse shape
is used instead then the resultant digital modulation technique is an improved version
of MSK digital modulation technique in terms of bandwidth and spectral efficiency
and is termed as GMSK digital modulation technique (Gaussian Minimum Shift
Keying). Furthermore, the major benefit in this method is the sufficiently lower side
lobe levels and the narrower main lobe as compared to a QPSK and MSK pulse [14].
2.4.1
The general architecture of GSM network is shown in figure 2.1. The GSM
system consists of several functional components including mobile switching centers
(MSC), base stations (BSC) with associated base transceivers (BS), an operation and
maintenance center (OMC) and gateway MSC.GSM mobile terminal or mobile
stations communicates across the Um interface, known as the air interface, with a BS
in the small cell in which the mobile unit is located. This communication with a BS
takes place through the radio channels. The network coverage area is divided into
small regions called cells. Multiple cells are grouped together form a cluster or a
locations area (LA) for the mobility management [7].
Figure 2.1: GSM network architecture [5]
10
BSC is connected to MSC through direct line or radio communication link.
The BSC holds radio frequencies, manages the handover of mobile station from one
cell to another with in the BSS (base station subsystem).the interface through which
MSC communicates with the PSTN (public switched telephone network) is called the
gateway MSC. MSCs main components including home location register (HLR),
visitor location register (VLR), authentication register (AuC) and equipment identity
register (EIR) [5, 7].
The HLR and VLR together with MSC provide the call routing and roaming
capabilities of GSM. The HLR stores both permanent and temporary information
about each of the mobile station that belongs to it. The VLR, on the other hand, holds
information about mobile station that is currently physically in the region covered by
MSC. VLR becomes important when user leaves the area served by his home MSC.
The two registers are used for authentication and security purpose. The EIR is a
database that contains a list of all valid mobile equipment on the network, where each
mobile station is identified by its international mobile equipment identity (IMEI). It
helps in security and prevents uses of network by mobile station that have not been
approved. The AuC holds the authentication and encryptions keys that are stored in
each user SIM card for authentication and encryption over radio channel [5].
Mobile station is the mobile subscriber connected to the network by using the
Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), communicates Base station transceiver (BS)
through air interface called Um- interface. Number of BSs are over run by Base station
controller (BSC) through an interface called Abis interface. While number of BSCs
are also controlled by one mobile switching center (MSC) communicating through an
interface called A interface. Number of MSCs together with their underlying network
parts constitute a GSM service provider [4].
2.4.2
GSM radio interface
The ITU-T (International Telecommunication Union) allocated the 890-915

MHz frequency for uplink transmission and 935-960MHz for downlink transmission
11
for GSM900 and 1710-1785MHz frequency for uplink and 1805-1880MHz for
downlink transmission for GSM1800. Due to the limited radio bandwidth GSM
utilizes a combination of FDMA and TDMA called Multi-Carrier TDMA to access
the available radio spectrum. Older standards of mobile system use only FDMA. In
FDMA system one specific frequency is allocated for every user during a call where
TDMA allows several users to share the same frequency channel by dividing the
signal into different timeslots. This allows multiple stations to share the same radio
frequency channel while using one part of its bandwidth. GSM system always uses
TDMA with in FDMA structure [5].
2.4.3
GSM Channels
Channel is a medium such us wire, coaxial cable, a wave guide, an optical

fiber or a radio link through which the transmitted output is sent [15]. Generally, GSM
channels are divided into two main categories; physical channels and logical channels
[5, 16]. Number of logical channels are multiplexed onto physical channels, which
assists for the system to run multiple activates in parallel which does not require to
use dedicated line for every slot transmission. Hence, the logical channels improve
the physical channels reuse capabilities to higher level. Logical channels are linked
on the physical channels so they are known as laid over grid of physical channels [5].
A physical channel is determined by the carrier frequency or a number of

carrier frequencies with defined hopping sequence and the time slot number. As
mentioned above, GSM uses both frequency division and time division multiple
access. FDMA parts involves the division by frequency of the 25 MHz bandwidth in
to 124 carrier frequencies (Absolute Radio Frequency Channel Number. ARFCN)
guard band of 200 KHz for GSM-900. For GSM-1800, frequency spectrum of 75 MHz
bandwidth is divided in to 374 carrier frequencies spaced 200 KHz. TDMA further
divides each carrier frequencies in to 8 time slots such that each carrier frequency is
12
shared by 8 users. Hence, in GSM, the basic radio resource is a time slot with duration
of 577s. 8 Time slots of 577s constitutes a 4.615ms TDMA Frame [5].
2.4.3.2 Logical channels
GSM logical Channels are sub grouped into two main parts; traffic channels
and control channels. Traffic channels carry speech and data information while
control channels deal with network management and channel maintenance tasks.
Control channels are in turn subdivided into two main categories; Broadcast control
channels (BCCH) and Common control channels (CCCH) [16].
2.4.3.2.1
Broadcast control channel (BCCH)
Broadcast control channel is a downlink channel used by the Base station

transceiver to broadcast information to mobile station and inform them about the
incoming calls. It is required in initial to provide a time slot for a call. BCCH
broadcasts general information required to set up calls, such information include
power control parameters, access methods, network parameters etc.
Broadcast channels are over three types; FCCH, SCH and BCH. FCCH
(Frequency Correction Channel) Provides MSC with the frequency reference of the
system to-allow synchronization with the network and frequency drift correction.
Second broadcast channel SCH (Synchronization Channel) Provides frame
synchronization for MSC and identification of BSC. The synchronization channel
transmits the sequence that is needed for link quality estimation and equalization.
Third broadcast control channel (BCCH) which is also downlink channel is broadcast
channel (BCH) that is used by BS to broadcast information to mobile station and
inform them about the incoming calls. It is required in initial to provide a time slot for
a call [5, 15].
13
2.4.3.2.2
Common Control Channel (CCCH)
The common control channel is a combination of common control channels

that is used between MSC and BSC before a dedicated control channel is allocated.
There are three downlink paging, access grant and cell broadcast channels and one
random access uplink channel. Paging channel (PCH) is activated for selective
addressing of a mobile station during a connect request from the network. Random
access channel (RACH) is transmitted by mobile station as uplink and to access the
network and request channel capacity form the BSC to establish a connection. The
access grant channel (AGCH) channel is transmitted by the BSC in reply to random
access from MSC. According to the call setup mechanism selected by network
operator is allocated for call. Cell broadcast channel (CBCH) channel containing
broadcast messages information about the traffic information etc. [5].
2.5 Radio resource management in cellular system (RRM)
Management has a pivotal role for everything needed to be efficiently utilized.

In communication networks, however, elements such as frequency channels,
timeslots, code channels; transmission power, battery energy and the number of
transceivers are the primary resources. For service providers to save cost and increase
revenue, the radio resources should be managed in a more efficient fashion which can
support in increasing quality of service as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of
wireless networks. Radio resource managements key points are; admission control,
power control, handover, and load control functionalities [13, 6, 17].
2.5.1
Admission Control
In admission control, new calls and already ongoing calls should be treated
differently to keep the system from being burdened. New calls, however, could be
queued. While Handovers may be prioritized. It is all about customer satisfaction
issue; an ongoing call to be terminated is more customer scaring phenomenon.
14
Therefore, prioritization is inevitable for better service as it increases the capacity of
the system. On the other hand, more capacity means more income for service
providers, and part of the apparent service quality can be credited to the accessibility
of the network [13, 17].
2.5.2
Channel Allocation and bandwidth management
In cellular systems, the bandwidth may be the most precious and important
resource; therefore, it should be well planned and efficiently utilized [13]. A GSM
cellular network is made of number of radio cells or cells served by fixed base station.
These cells are dedicated to cover different areas to provide radio coverage over vast
area.
Radio cells, however, are grouped into clusters and each frequency is used
once per cluster. The capacity in cellular network can be improved because the same
radio frequency can be reused in different area for completely different transmission
in a regular way. The ruse of frequencies enables a cellular system to handle enormous
number of calls with limited numbers of channels. GSM cellular layout typically
involves the frequency reuse factor which is inversely proportional to K (where K is
number of cell per cluster). The co- channel interference is serious problem in this
scheme while adjacent co-channel interference is not a big problem.
= 3
(2.1)
Where R is the radius of the cell, D is the distance from the center of the cell to its
neighbor using the same frequency and N is number of cells. [5].
Channel assignment strategies can be classified into fixed, dynamic, and

flexible. Fixed Channel Assignment (FCA) strategy permanently assigns a set of
channels to each cell in a cluster.
15
Figure 2.2: GSM Cellular Layout for Frequency Reuse [7, 5]
Dynamic Channel Assignment (DCA) strategy, makes all the channels in a

cluster available for use within a cluster. The actual channel assignment for a new call
attempt is based on the minimization of a cost function that depends on future blocking
probability, frequency usage of the candidate channel, and reuse distance of the
channel. Dynamic channel allocation does not require a priori frequency planning but
must determine whether co-channel usage is allowed or not, therefore, algorithm used
must guarantee a safe co-channel reuse distance. Hence, a measure of interference for
the handover candidate channel is required as an input to the channel allocation
algorithm. In microcell [7, 13, 17].
The Flexible Channel Assignment (FLCA) strategy permanently distributes

some channels among the cells in a cluster and keeps the remaining channels available
for any cells use when that cells permanent channels are inadequate to cope with
high traffic demand [17].
2.5.3
Power control
Power control increases battery life, decreases health risks, and mitigates
interference. One way to apply power control is to use signal to interference ratio SIR
as a criterion. In this circumstance, MSs try to attain a target SIR through continuous
power adjustments. If the minimum possible power that meets the required carrier to
16
interference ratio (C/I) limit at the receiver is transmitted, spectrum efficiency will
increase compared to uncontrolled transmit power systems. Increasing transmit power
to increase (C/I) for better transmission quality does not necessarily meet the objective
since other transmitters in the system may also increase their power levels to reduce
their interference, thus increasing the interference level of the whole system.
2.5.4
Handover
Different researchers and writers made different definitions for handover.

Handover is the procedure that transfers an ongoing call from one cell to another as
the user moves through the coverage area of cellular system, as described in [3, 5, 18,
32]. In other words, Handover is the process of changing the channel (frequency, time
slot, spreading code, or combination of them) associated with the current connection
while a call is in progress. In cellular telecommunications, the term handover or
handoff refers to the process of transferring an ongoing call or data session from one
channel connected to the core network to another channel [1]. The later definition is
more meaningful then the first one, because, the transformation is not only for calls
but also for data transmission as well.
Number of causes are considered of been responsible for handover process.

MS movement from one base station coverage area to another base station coverage
area is considered as a paramount cause of handover, however, it is not the only one
but there is a number of other causes that could lead to handover such as bad signal
quality, emergency, Rx level drop, interference, load and many others [19].
Handoff and handover are two words used interchangeably. American English
uses the term handoff, and this is most commonly used within some American
Organizations such as 3GPP2 and in American originated technologies such as
CDMA2000. In British English the term handover is more common, and is used
within international and European organizations such as ITU-T, IETF, ETSI and
3GPP, and standardized with in European originated standards such as GSM and
UMSS. The term handover is more common than handover in academic research
17
publications and literature, while handover is slightly more common within the IEEE
and ANSI organizations. The time over which a call is maintained within a cell
without handover is called dwell time [1, 7].
2.5.4.1 Requirements for GSM handover
The process of handover within any cellular system has a paramount

significance. It is a critical process, if made inaccurately handover can result in the
loss of the call. Dropped calls are particularly annoying to users and if the number of
dropped calls increases, users displeasure rises and they are likely to migrate to
another network. Accordingly GSM handover was an area to which particular
consideration was paid when developing standards [4].
Handover may affect wireless networks in many ways such as, quality-ofservice (QoS) and the capacity of the network [13]. So there are a number of desirable
features and requirements to reduce the adverse effects of a handover:
1. The handover should be fast enough.

2. The handover latency should be low.
3. The total number of handovers should be minimal.
4. Successful handovers to total attempted handovers should be maximized.
5. The effect of handover on QoS should be minimal.
2.5.4.2 Handover Management
Handover management, in short, means preserving the traffic connection with

a moving user when crossing cell boundaries. Handover occurs when the quality or
the strength of the radio signal falls below certain parameters (signal quality reason)
it may also occur when the traffic capacity of a cell has reached its maximum level or
18
Closer (traffic reason). GSM standard identifies about 40 reasons for a handover.
Handover is initialized by the mobile or by the base station [1, 20].
Figure 2.3: Handover process
Handover process may be viewed as quite complex, but then, it could be

summarized with the following three major steps involved in handover process:
1. Measurement: During this stage link measurements (e.g. Received Signal

Strength (RSS), Signal to Interference Ratio (SIR), distance measure, Bit Error
Rate (BER)) are carried out at both parts: the BS and the MS [1, 13 ,17].
2. Decision: The objective of this phase is the selection of the new channel, based
On actual resource availability and the network load, the measurement
outcomes are equated with predefined thresholds and then it is decided
whether to initiate the handover or not. Different kinds of handover decision
protocols are of course used [1, 13, 17].
3. Execution: In this phase, the handover process is completed I.e. the network
allows the MS to communicate with a BS in one of its cells, to transfer its
communication into another channel or another cell. During this phase, the
over-the-air and network process signaling is performed, as well as,
authentication, database lookup and network reconfiguration [1, 13, 17].
19
2.5.4.3 Handover strategies
Handover decision is made and instigated based on measurement. Different

systems employ dissimilar methods to accomplish handover processes and these are
characterized by handover protocols. The mobile terminal measures continuously
level of signal in current channels and compare it with some other different channels
[1]. When deciding to handover an MS, it should be assured that the drop in the
measured signal level is not as the result of momentary fading and that the mobile
actually moving away from the serving base station [7] or any other justifiable reason
stands behind the needed handover. Based on the measurement results, the decisionmaking process of handover may be centralized or decentralized i.e. handover
decision is made by handset, the network or the association between them, depending
on the handover control protocol [1, 7, 13]. The following three strategies are
proposed for handover detection:
1. Network Controlled Handover (NCHO).

2. Mobile Assisted Handover (MAHO).
3. Mobile Controlled Handover (MCHO)
2.5.4.3.1
Network Controlled Handover (NCHO)
With NCHO, base stations (BSs) measure the signal coming from all mobile
stations (MSs) in its coverage area and network triggers the handover process when
some handover criteria are met. in this method, the base station monitors the signal
strength and quality from the mobile station and when these deteriorate below some
threshold, the network arranges for a handover to another base station. The network
examines all the surrounding base station to monitor the signal from the mobile station
and report the measurement result back to the network. The network then chooses a
new base station for the handover and informs both the mobile station through the old
base station and the new base station as well [1, 6].
20
Signal level measurement is made by base stations and supervised by mobile
switching center (MSC). In addition to radio signal quality of ongoing calls within the
cell, BSs uses reverse voice channels to determine the relative location of each MS.
Moreover, each BS has an extra receiver called locator receiver, dedicated for
monitoring the signal strength of the MSs in the neighboring cells. The locator
receiver is controlled by the MSC to truck the MS in the neighboring cell which tend
to undergo handover process [7].
NCHO is used in first generation cellular systems such as Advanced Mobile

Phone System (AMPS), TACS (total access communication system), and NMT
(Nordic Mobile Telephones). In general, the handover process (including data
transmission, channel switching, and network switching) takes 100200ms [1, 6, 7].
2.5.4.3.2
Mobile Assisted Handover (MAHO)
In NCHO, the load of the network is high since network handles the whole
process itself; in MAHO, in contrast, the handover is more dispersed. Both the mobile
station and the base station supervise the quality of the link. The network asks the MS
to measure the signal from the surrounding BSs. But the network makes the handover
decision based on reports from the MS. The mobile station is responsible for doing
the received signal strength indication (RSSI) measurement of neighboring base
stations [6, 7].
This handover strategy is used by the GSM cellular standard because it is

easier than NCHO and the MS transmits the measurement results to the BS twice a
second. The decision as to when and where to execute the handover is still made in
the network. In the circuit-switched GSM, the BS controller (BSC) is in charge of the
radio interface management. The handover time between handover decision and
execution in such a circuit-switched GSM is approximately one second [7, 13]. The
following figure shows MAHO inter base station message follow.
21
Figure 2.4: MAHO inter BS message flow [1]
2.5.4.3.3
Mobile Controlled Handover (MCHO)
In MCHO strategy, the mobile station (MS) continuously monitors the signals
of the surrounding BSs and initiates handover process when handover criteria is met.
The MS constantly monitors the signal strength and quality from the accessed base
station and several handover candidate base stations. Reaction time of MCHO
estimated of 0.1 seconds and it is used in DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless
Telecommunications) standard [1, 6, 7]. The figures below shows inter-BS message
follow.
22
Figure 2.5: MCHO inter-BS message follow [1]
2.5.4.4 GSM handover measurement
Since GSM uses MAHO strategy for handover, the mobile station makes
measurements which are used in triggering of the handover and in the evaluation of
the handover candidate cell. This makes measurement an essential part of the
handover process. In order to make efficient handover, these measurements should be
refreshed as fast as possible. The mobile station measures crucial parameters such as
uplink receiving level and quality and the level of the neighboring cells and sends this
information to the network so that the decision for the handover is available to network
all the times [5].
These measurements reports from the MS is carried on the SACCH signaling

channel after every 0.48 sec, this means at least once per second. In terms of capacity,
the SACCH channel is error free; which means that the measurements reporting is
23
faultless almost [5]. In general measurements report contains parameters that describe
the current network connection, the radio conditions of the neighboring cells and the
targeted cells to handover.
In GSM, one measurement message is sent from a mobile station to the BS

every 0.48 sec. this message contains the uplink and downlink Rx level of the serving
cell and that of up to six neighboring cells. However a mobile station may presynchronize with more than six neighboring cells. In this case, the measurements
corresponding to the six cells with the best signal level are reported to the BS. The
measurements of the neighboring cells is more challenging because a mobile station
has to establish which neighboring cell it can receive and divide the measurement time
among those cells capable of receiving [5, 11].
2.5.4.5 Handover schemes
Handover, as presented in the previous sections, is a very important in a

wireless network for continuation of connections and quality of serves perceived for
the users [1]. Handover schemes can be distinguished into Non-Prioritized Schemes
(NPS) and Prioritized Schemes [13, 5].
Non- prioritized schemes both handover calls and incoming calls are treated
equally. When there are free channels available for the BS, both handover calls and
incoming calls have the same level of importance. If there is no channel available for
the BS, the calls will be blocked; hence there is an increase call drop probability
(CDP). Non-prioritized schemes employ complete sharing (CS) and complete
partition (CP) strategies. CP provides equal chance to access the available channel for
both handover calls and new calls. The CP policy divides the available bandwidth into
sub-pools according to new calls and handover calls [13].
24
For prioritized schemes, the call drop probability (CDP) and call block
probability (CBP) is reduced by increasing the priority of handover calls over arriving
new calls.
This implies that the call blocking probability increased whereas the
handover failure probability decreases. Handover prioritizing schemes, however,

leads to better performance at the expanse of the reduction in the total admitted traffic
and an increase in the call block probability of new call [13]. There are several
handover prioritization schemes that have been proposed a few of the most important
are fallows:
2.5.4.5.1
Guard Channels
The guard channel scheme is reserves some fixed or adaptively changing

number of channels dedicated for handover calls only. The remaining number of the
channels are intended for both handover and incoming calls. As a result of reserving
channels for handover call, there is a reduction in number towards forced termination
probability and an increasing in call drop probability [13, 5, 6].
The guard channels are dynamically governed by the neighboring Base

Stations. Each BS determines the number of MSs in pre handover zone (PHZ)
periodically and informs its neighbor BS related to that PHZ. The PHZ is small area
that is located near the handover zone and contains the possible users that will enter
the handover zone soon. If the BS receives the number of MSs in PHZ it reserves
adequate amount of guard channels for handover calls. A new call is assigned a
channel if there is no handover call in the queued list [5, 6].
2.5.4.5.2
Queuing Handover Calls
Queuing handover call prioritization scheme queues the handover calls when
all channels are fully occupied in the BSC. As a channel is released in the BSC, it is
assigned to one of the handover calls in the queue. This scheme reduces the call
25
dropping probability at the cost of the increased call blocking probability .In queuing
schemes, a new call request is assigned a channel if the queue is empty and if there is
at least of free channel in the BSC. The call remains queued until either a channel
available in the new cell or the power by the base station in the current cell drops
below the receiver threshold. If the call reaches the receiver threshold and no free
channel if found then the call is terminated [13].
Queuing handover is probable due to the overlap regions between the

neighboring cells in which the mobile station can communicate with more than one
base station. Queuing is operational only when the handover requests arrive in groups
and traffic is low. First in first out (FIFO) scheme is the most common queuing scheme
where the handover requests are ordered according to their arrival. The Most Critical
First (MCF) policy, which is the first handover calls have highest priority [13].
2.5.4.5.3
Sub Rating Schemes
In order to receive more handover calls, the sub rating scheme reduces the
bandwidth of the existing calls. Under these methods, the ongoing calls are forced to
operate under degraded modes to accommodate calls into an overloaded system.
Certain channels are allowed to be divided into two channels with half original rates
in order to put up more calls into the system. Using these forms, half of the channel is
use to maintain the new handover calls, and other half of the channel is use to maintain
the existing call. To combine with the sub rated channel to form the original full-rated
channel the sub rated channel is released. This scheme reduces the block probability
and forced termination probability for handover calls on contrary with the introduction
of degradation in the system [17].
2.5.4.5.4
Generic Handover Schemes
In order to allocate the channel using the local state- based call request, double
threshold policies; the generic algorithm scheme is applied. The BSC supervises the
26
state information for making decisions based on abbreviation of state information and
a small number of cells. This scheme delivers better admission control policy
comparing with other methods [13].
2.5.4.5.5
Hybrid Handover Schemes
In hybrid scheme, a combination of all handover schemes is used. This policy

is intended to reduce blocking probability and to improve the channel utilization and
of course made a significant progress [13].
2.5.4.6 Handover Algorithm
Based on the handover criteria, handover algorithms are grouped into two
classes:
a- Conventional Handover Algorithm is the algorithm which is based on the

signal strength, distances, velocities and power budget [9].
b- Intelligent Handover Algorithm is the algorithm which is based on all
technology such as natural networks, prediction, fuzzy logic, and pattern
recognition [9].
2.5.4.6.1
Conventional Handover Algorithm
In traditional networks, both the mobile station and the base station frequently
measure the radio signal strength. The mobile station transmits its measurements
reports constantly to the BS. If the BS detect a reduction in radio signal under a
minimal level; it initiates a handover request as shown in the figure above. The BS
then notifies the BSC about the request, which then confirms if it is possible to transfer
the call into a new adjacent cell. In fact the BSC checks weather a free channel is
Figure
Handover [2]
2.6:
Signal
Levels
for
27
available in the new adjacent cell or not. In this state, the BSC does not segregate
between the channel requests either for fresh call or handover. If a free channel is
available in the new adjacent cell then handover request can be satisfied, and the
mobile station switch to new cell. But, if there is no free channel in the adjacent cell
then it increases the dropping probability of handover call. The main downside of this
handover procedure is the fact that the handover request for channel is same as used
for fresh calls [9].
Figure 2.6: Signal levels for handover
In conventional handover algorithm, the relative Signal Strength (RSS) of BSs

are measured over time and the BS with the strongest signal strength is selected to
carry out a handover. To select the strongest signal strength several measurements are
used such as relative Signal Strength with threshold, Relative Signal Strength with
Hysteresis and relative Signal Strength with Hysteresis and Threshold [13, 5, 18].
2.5.4.6.2
Velocity Based Algorithm.
When the user moves fast, the probability of call drop may be high due to
extreme delay during handover. Hence a fast handover algorithm with velocity
adaptation can be recommended for urban communication. Corner detection
28
algorithm is also combined with the handover algorithm to speed up handovers in nonline of sight state [13].
2.5.4.6.3
Direction Biased algorithms
This algorithm is very important for high mobility. Hence, if the mobile station
(MS) moves fast, the MS is not handed off quickly enough to another BS, the call will
be drop. The basic idea behind this algorithm is that handovers to the BS in the
direction towards which the MS is moving are encourage, while handovers to the BS
from which the MS is receding are discourage. This algorithm is decreasing call drop
probability for hard handover [5, 13, 17].
2.5.4.6.4
Signal Interference Based Algorithm
In this algorithm, Signal to interference ratio (SIR) is used to measure speech

communication quality and system capacity. The toll quality voice, SIR at the cell
boundary should be relatively high. This algorithm allows handover; if the SIR of the
current BS is lower than the threshold and the SIR of the target BS is better. When
actual C/I is lower than the designed C/I, the voice quality becomes poor, and the rate
of call drop increases. SIR also determines reuse distance [13, 17].
2.5.4.6.5
Intelligent Handover Algorithms
Intelligent means smart, an intelligent handover algorithm, all handover

procedures are handled by an intelligent network elements. The fuzzy logic based
approach is one of the eminent algorithms; it allows an ordered tuning of the handover
parameters to provide a balanced compromise among different system characteristics.
And other dominant intelligent algorithm is Neural network based handover algorithm
which suggests neural encoding of the fuzzy logic systems to concurrently achieve
the goals of high performance and reduced complexity. Pattern recognition based
handover algorithms, classifies meaningful regularities in noisy or complex
29
environments. These techniques are based on the concept that, points in a feature
space are mathematically defined and are close enough to represent same kind of
objects [13].
2.5.4.7 Performance metrics for Handover
Performance metrics are primarily used to appraise handover algorithms, some of

them are listed below [18]:
1. Call blocking probability: - the probability that a new call attempt is blocked.
2. Handover blocking probability: - the probability that a handover trial is
blocked.
3. Handover probability: - The probability that an ongoing call needs a handover
before the call terminates while communicating with a particular cell,. This
metric could be translated into the average number of handovers per cell.
4. Call dropping probability: - The probability that a call ends for the reason of
handover failure. This metric can be extracted directly from the handover
blocking probability and the handover probability.
5. Duration of interruption: - The span of time during handover for which the
mobile subscriber is in communication with neither base station. This metric
greatly depends on the particular network topology and the range of the
handover.
6. Probability of an unnecessary handover: - The probability that a handover is
encouraged by a particular handover algorithm when the prevailing radio link
is still adequate.
7. Rate of handover: - the number of handovers per unit time. The combination
of this probability with the average call duration, could be used to determine
the average number of handovers per call, and therefore the handover
probability.
8. Delay: - The distance through which a mobile moves from the point at which
the handover should occur to the point at which it does.
30
2.5.4.8 Types of handover
Handover, however, can be classified into different kinds based on several

factors, like the type of the network, the involved network elements or the number of
active connections and the type of traffic that the network supports [13]. In GSM,
according to the part of the network involved, handover could be; intra-BS, intra-BSC,
intra-MSC or inter-MSC handover. Considering connection establishment and
termination (number of channels that an MS can be connected at once), handover can
be grouped under two main categories; hard handover and soft handover [1, 6, 7, 18].
2.5.4.8.1
Hard handover (HHO)
The definition of a hard handover is one where an existing connection must be

broken before the new one is established [3].it is the condition in which the channel
in the source cell is released and only then the channel in the target cell is tied up.
Thus, the connection to the source is broken before or 'as' the connection to the target
is made. As a result, such handovers are also known as break-before-make [13, 17].
When an MS is between base stations, then mobile can switch with any of the
neighboring base stations once the connection with the old base station is terminated.
Hard handover is used by the systems which use time division multiple access
TDMA and frequency division multiple access FDMA such as WLAN, GSM, GPRS,
LTE and WiMAX where different frequencies are used in adjacent cells. Data do not
have to be replicated and therefore, the data overhead is minimized it is therefore
Simple and cheap and handover event is very short and usually not perceptible by the
user [6, 13].
2.5.4.8.2
Soft handover (SHO)
A soft handover is one in which the channel in the serving cell is retained and
used for a while in parallel with the channel in the target cell. This implies that the
31
connection to the target is established before the connection to the source is
terminated, hence this handovers is called make-before-break [7, 13]. Soft handovers
may sometimes involve using links to more than two cell, e.g. connections to three,
four or more cells can be maintained by one phone at the same time. The latter is more
advantageous, and when such combining is performed both in the downlink (forward
link) and the uplink (reverse link) the handover is termed as softer. Softer handovers
are possible when the cells involved in the handovers have a single cell site.
Soft handover occurs in the systems where it is possible to have neighboring

cells on the same frequency such as CDMA [3]. Consuming simultaneously channels
in multiple cells makes the use of more complex hardware inevitable [13, 21]. The
connection established in this form of handover is more reliable and handover failure
rate is expected to be minimum [6, 17].
Handovers can also be distinguished into horizontal and vertical. The type of
handover occurring in a homogenous network is termed as horizontal and the one in
heterogeneous network is known as vertical handover [6, 13]. Vertical handovers can
be further distinguished into Downward Vertical Handover (DVH) and Upward
Vertical Handover (UVH). In DVH the mobile user handovers to the network that has
higher bandwidth and limited coverage, while in UVH the mobile user transfers its
connection to the network with lower bandwidth and wider coverage [7, 18, 21, 16].
Figure 2.7: Comparison between hard and soft handover [16]
32
2.6 GSM network Evaluation criteria
GSM network performance and Quality Of Service evaluation are the two
most important criteria to be met by every service provider as their customer
satisfaction depends on network performance and quality. Radio frequency network
optimization (RNO) teams, however, have a very significant and vital role in
optimizing an operational network to keep up with the ever increasing demands from
the end users [2, 11].
2.7 Key Performance Indicators assessment and QOS estimation
The following are some of the major GSM network KPIs that give us the real
depiction of the network performance:
1. CSSR (Call Set up Success Rate).

2. CDR (Call Drop Rate).
3. HSR (Handover Success Rate).
4. TCH (Traffic Channel) Congestion Rate.
5.
RX Level.
6. RX Quality.
Call set up success rate is a major KPI in GSM network optimization, it

measures number of successful TCH Assignments out of total number of TCH
assignment attempts. [11] It could be affected by; radio interface congestion, lack of
radio resources allocation, Increase in radio traffic in inbound network or Faulty BSS
Hardware. Call drop rate is also indicates the rate of calls not completed successfully.
[2] The handover success rate (HSR), however, shows the percentage of successful
handovers of all handover attempts. A handover attempt is when a handover command
is sent to the mobile. [11] Interference, Missing adjacencies and Hardware faults
mainly contribute HSR degradation.
33
Traffic channel congestion rate (TCHCR) and Stand Alone Dedicated Control
Channel (SDCCH) Access Success Rate are other significant indicators that come to exist as
a result of lack of resources and hardware failure. RX LEVEL and RX QUALITY, in similar,
to the previous parameters, project a part of the whole network quality picture.
2.8 Radio network planning and optimization
In planning and optimization radio network, the main goal is to build a radio
network of large capacity and broad coverage as best as possible and make it ready
for future network development and expansion. Network planning and optimization
is an organized project covering the whole process of network building from
technology system comparison to radio transmission theory. Antenna feeder index
analysis, network capability forecast and other minor activities will not be left out.
Network planning and optimization also involves from macro view such as
characteristics of coverage capability and general design idea of radio network to
micro view such as cell parameters [11].
2.8.1
Radio network planning and optimization follow
The following chart summarizes radio network planning and optimization process.
Analysis of
traffic and
coverage
Optimization
Emulation
Installation
Survey
System
design
Figure 2.8: Radio network planning optimization flow [11]
34
Call service coverage analysis is the first stage of planning optimization. More
crucial information is required to support network planning cost limit. Various maps,
coverage area type, service type, terminal type and proportion, coverage and
capability requests of different services, available band, class of service, population
distribution, the development of system capacity, income distribution and the use of
fixed-line phone; all these are needed at this stage [11].
The second stage is emulation, network dimensioning estimate should be

carried out on the basis of BSS equipment and the mature planning method after call
service coverage analysis to get the coverage areas and the number of base stations
and then obtaining the configuration of all base stations according to the information
provided by the first stage. Planning software is then used to verify the coverage and
capacity results estimated at the first stage [11].
Survey, however, comes at the third stage and it is all about field exploration
in accordance with the emulation results. At this stage, potential base station address
is recorded following the requirement of the base station building including power
supply, transmission, electromagnetic background, land offset and the influence of the
future cell splitting techniques [11].
The fourth phase is system design. It involves deciding frequencies,

neighboring cell plan, and the function parameters of each cell according to the
distribution and the type of base stations. The fifth, on the other hand, is installation,
the system is installed in compliance with the design specified at the prior step [11].
The sixth stage, optimization, the goal of resource optimization is to achieve

the best possible resource utilization. With refined adjustment and a complementary
to the project defects. Analyzing and tracing problems and preparing the current
network for future expansion is the key role for optimizers [11].
35
2.8.2
GSM radio network optimization
Radio Network Optimization (RNO) teams for every communication firm are
assigned to improve network performance and maximize the benefit of the existing
network resources through parameter collection, data analysis, parameter adjustment
and necessary technical means [2, 11]. The fundamental assignment of radio network
planning and optimization is to pursue a balance among coverage, capacity and quality
of based on lucid investment and the limited frequency resources, accordingly
attaining the best rate of investment return. The following figure shows the network
optimization procedure [11].
Figure 2.9: Network optimization procedure [11]
At the first stage, actual network parameters are figured out in regarding with
the radio environment, hot-traffic spot and understanding customer requirements.
Data collection comes next to collect information relating to the traffic statistics, alarm
data and drive test data. After data collection; network tuning step is to be taken which
tune network functional parameters. After accomplishing all above tasks; network
36
optimization report covering fulfilled network performance indexes and suggestions
for network development comes at last [11].
2.8.2.1 Intra-BSC Handover optimization
Intra-BSC handover is one of the most frequently occurring handover since it

occurs in between adjacent BTSs. Optimizing intra-BSC HO simply means increasing
HSR in the level of BTSs under the control of same BSC. What is so interesting in
intra-BSC HO is that the whole process is managed by the BSC it concerns and the
MSC is only informed about the process. In this thesis, however, only intra-BSC HO
is focused and the rest of other types of HO are not mainly considered.
2.8.3
GSM Network optimization tools
Both software and hardware gadgets used for network optimization are
collectively called optimization tools, test MS, drive test software and signaling
analyzer are some of optimization tools used [2, 11].
Test MS is an important tool for engineers to perform network test. It can

display the service cell of mobile telecommunication network and six neighbor cells,
it can be also used to view IMSI of the SIM card, scan BCCH, view network
parameters and it can be forced to cell selection and handover; to analyze network
performance [2, 11].
GSM drive test software, like ANT, TEMS and SAFCO are used for data
collection. A drive test software, however, can be a foreground data collection
software or background data analysis software. Foreground data collection software
is used for uplink and downlink data collection such functions include; interference
test, parameter collection, geographic navigation, SQI (speech quality index)test and
traffic statistics. Background data analysis software, however, guides engineers to
evaluate and optimize the network rationally and effectively by allowing them make
37
radio coverage evaluation, neighbor cell analysis, handover analysis and signaling
analysis. [11]
MA-10 and K1205 are two major signaling analyzers used in GSM
optimization. With the help of MA-10 signaling analyzer, network engineers can
collect and analyze Abis interface data and A-interface data, view the whole signaling
procedure, and obtain the measurement report and compare the information with the
downlink signals obtained from drive test. [11]
2.9 Literature review
Optimization concept could be traced back to the early days of GSM network
deployment. Since then, quite a lot of research has been conducted on optimization
field. According to the relation with this thesis, most published researches can be
divided into two broad categories:
The first type is analyzing general handover issues in an independent study, there are
some studies emphasizing on handover related issues.
Syed Imran Basha and Idrish Shaik investigated reducing Handover Failure
Rate by RF Optimization in which RF performance parameters such as the received
signal strength, receive voice quality, carrier to interference ratio, etc. are defined for
the efficient and effective functioning of the RF network. They also present short-call
and long-call control tests from the drive testing process working on various tools
such as Agilent 15.2 Drive test tool, ACTIX Post processing tool. By analyzing the
drive test results, the main motive behind this study was to identify the causes of
handover failures in a BSNL service test area and necessitate steps to reduce the
handover failure rate [22].
After checking all other GSM parameters and going down to handover issues,
the study has suggested some possible reasons for handover failure, such reasons
38
include; unavailable time slots because of high traffic, congestion, low signal strength
or bad quality on target cell. Hardware problems in target cells is considered as
another major possible cause for handover failure. TRX or time slot problems is
attributed as another more likely cause of handover failure. If handover attempt fails,
MS tries to return to old channel and if it couldnt, call drops.
Syed Imran Basha and Idrish Shaik concluded that most of the network
problems they came across were caused by increasing subscribers and the changing
environment. And the main purpose of optimization was to increase the utilization of
the network resources, solving both existing and potential problems on the network
as well as identifying the probable solutions for future network planning.
The second category deals with Overall GSM KPI optimization without specific
attention on handover, Olasunkanmi F. Oseni conducted a study aimed at improving
the Quality of Service (QoS) of the GSM radio network set up within Abeokuta City,
Nigeria. A drive test was carried out in dedicated mode with the objective of collecting
measurement data as a function of location and to detect the eventual black spots in
the GSM radio network. The data collected were examined in post-processing
software tool (MapInfo Professional) to identify the causes of problems and determine
how these problems can be solved effectively and efficiently [23].
The study showed that radio network technologies explored should be

optimized for better quality of service delivery in some parts of the city. The poor
radio coverage and decline in quality of service acknowledged in the affected areas of
the city were traced to the land topology and the presence of physical impediments
present in the propagation environment. Also, poor quality samples collected over
some BSs were due to poor coverage in the area. It is therefore recommended that a
base station should be well planned by the Radio Network Planning (RNP) team of
the network provider and vendor to enhance radio coverage in the affected area. The
planned site is also expected to improve the Quality of Service (QoS) offered by the
radio networks. The Hand-Over (HO) failures were mainly due to Base Station
Controller (BSC) Synchronization issue observed. This should be resolved properly
39
and timely. If the optimization is successfully accomplished, the QoS, reliability and
availability of RF Coverage area will be highly improved resulting in more customers
and more profits to the mobile telecom service providers [23].
Baha Khaled made evaluation on Jawwal GSM network in Jenien city,

Palestine. In his study, he used two approaches; evaluation of KPIs and drive test
analysis. The city was divided into seven different areas for studying. In [24] RX level
is mainly considered leading to TCH relating issues to be firmly focused. As a result
of his work on Jawwal GSM network, GSM network performance has risen to a
substantial percentage [24].
In similar, Giriraj Sharma, Ashish Kumar proposes some practical cases and
solutions adopted to improve the network QOS during drive test & post processing.
Major QOS parameter Handover, call drop, congestion, interference reasons and
solutions are discussed. Drive test tool ASCOM TEMS 10.2.1 is used to perform drive
test. Finally the study suggested that if optimization is done constantly it will result
better network quality [21].
2.10
Summary
Handover is the process of transferring live session from one part of the
communication system to another part of the system. It has an utmost importance that
makes it play a pivotal role in the system quality of service. In GSM, handover a key
performance indicator as it indicates quality of the network. Optimization is making
a network productive and efficient with the limited resources available and preparing
it for potential forthcoming expansion. To make GSM network more efficient, several
researches were conducted all over the world. The most available literature covers
handover particularly or GSM in general and handover is taken as a subtitle.
According to this thesis, intra-BSC handover is taken as a case study and the
methodology employed for investigation is fully depicted in chapter three of this
thesis.
CHAPTER 3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND MATERIALS
3.1 Introduction
This chapter shades some light on Intra-BSC handover Optimization by

using Drive test methodology together with data recorded by BSC to upsurge the
performance of the current and future live networks. Through Radio Network
Optimization, the service quality and resources usage of the network are critically
enhanced and the balance among coverage and capacity is achieved. When new cell
sites are being deployed (live network), the key issue of GSM mobile operators is
Radio Network Optimization (RNO).
Radio network optimization is carried out in order to improve the network

performance with the available resources. RNO teams are required to keep up with
current standards and demands and to prepare the network to comply with future
requirements as well. The main driving force behind optimization is to rise the
operation of the network resources, resolve the existing and possible glitches on the
network and categorize the probable way-outs for the current (Live Systems) and
future networks hindrances. Providing Easy way for the operation and maintenance
teams in their job of troubleshooting, is one of the principal contributions of
optimization [25]. Handover optimization, however, has a lion share in overall GSM
network Optimization.
In this study, looking deep into statistics and
41
collecting/analyzing drive test data is the core method applied for network
evaluation on the bases of handover optimization.
In general, the following key steps are followed in Radio Network Optimization
process:
a) Data Collection and verification
b) Data analysis
c) Parameter and hardware adjustment
d) Optimization result confirmation and reporting.
e) On-going drive testing measurements using Drive testing tool (TEMS
investigation)
The chart below shows the methodology of network optimization
Figure 3.1 General radio network optimization flow
42
Due to the mobility of subscribers and complexity of the radio wave
propagation, most of network problems are caused by increasing subscribers and the
changing environment. Thus, Radio Network Optimization is a continuous process.
3.2 Drive Test Overview
The performance of wireless network infrastructure to be comprehensively

evaluated by drive testing. Factors such as the network coverage, the level of
availability, the call quality and the data capacity of a base station can all be
observed in detail. Drive testing can be done whenever new cell sites are being
deployed (live systems), to confirm that they fit in into the network properly. It can
also be carried out in on a working network to make sure that the operational
effectiveness of the network is sustained, or to examine a particular problem that has
been revealed in order to find the origin of that problem and subsequently resolve it.
it also ensures that its installation and its on-going preservation are both carried out
correctly[24, 25].
3.3 GSM Network Drive Testing
Carrying out drive test operation on GSM network palaces the service
provider at the place of their subscribers making them better armed with real
information to deal with situations which might otherwise result in a decrease of
their customer base and the revenues that they could generate. Similarly,
troubleshooting can be carried out when necessary. Through this process, the source
of a particular issue being experienced by subscribers (such as a high frequency of
dropped calls in a particular cell site or handover failure), which could have
occurred simply because of errors in the course of the deployment process or
through some errors arising later (like component failure), can be found.
In addition, drive testing should be done both before and after the upgrading
of a cell site, so that it can be established whether or not the desired performance
43
optimization have been made. Network optimization is another important practice
enabled via drive testing, allowing operators to ensure that their network resources
are fully consumed and that capital overheads has not been wasted.
3.4 Significant KPIs and Their Insinuations
1. Accessibility - This basically describes how easy it is for the mobile

subscriber to access the network and obtain a service (in order to make data
transfers, etc.). Normally a KPI will be set for a network attach failure ratio
of less than 1%.
2. Retain-ability is a measure of the Radio networks ability to maintain an
active mobile session until the user terminates. It shows the percentage of
active calls dropped. In general, this describes the capability of a service,
once it has been obtained, to continue for the period required by the mobile
subscriber. With regard to voice based services, it informs engineers about
how well a network performs in keep calls from the setup to their normal call
end. It is invaluable in safeguarding the network against dropped calls,
allowing the operator to identify poor performing cells and resolve the
underlying issues impinging on their operation. Normally a KPI will be set
for a dropped call ratio of less than 2%.
3. Integrity This tells engineers if the network perceived audio quality
is Good in more than 95% of all the samples [11].
4. Power budget handover threshold The power budget expression (PBGT)
offers a technique of associating a path loss of an MS and serving cell
(PBGT) with a path loss of the MS and a potential handover target cell
(PBGT). A handover may be instigated when (PBGT) goes beyond a
handover threshold value designated by a system operator [11].
44
5. Minimum downlink power for handover candidate cell It is the minimum
allowed access level for a cell to be a neighbor cell. When the cell level
measured by MS is greater than the threshold, the BSS list the cell into
candidate cell list for handover judgment. The acceptable power level ranges
from 110 dBm to 47 dBm [11].
3.5 Network optimization tools
Network optimization tools are used for data collection, data analysis, and
simulation analysis. These tools are:
Laptop with TEMS investigation 8.0.
Car to carry out the drive test.
Full drive test kit.
Digital camera.
GPS.
Maps.
3.6 Necessary Equipment (Materials)
The basic kit required for completion of a drive test include:
1. A vehicle It can be any form of a car or even motorbike. It facilitates the

field operative to navigate a pre-defined route while getting test data (in
some cases though testing may even be done on foot).
2. Measurement device it can be a series of mobile handsets, a data card, or a
scanner. Through the device parameters such as the signal strength, call
quality, transfer rate, success of handovers between adjacent cells, etc. can
all be learnt. Normally two handsets will be used. The first will be active, so
that call-based measurements can be taken, while the second will be inactive,
45
just connected to the network. Through these handsets the call mode and
idle mode performance can be evaluated at various points along the route.
Both long calls and short calls are undertaken as these will allow different
network performance parameters to be tested (short calls can test signalbased performance characteristics, while long calls can test activities such as
handovers, etc.).
3. A laptop For the storage and subsequent manipulation of acquired data.
4. A GPS system Through which the exact location of the operative can be
determined at any stage of the test run. Using the acquired test data and the
GPS data, a visual representation of networks coverage can be put together,
showing where there are potential areas of concern.
5. Choosing the software package is crucial when looking to embark on drive

test work. for this study , Ascom Network Testings TEMS Investigation
is used. It is a multi-technology platform that presents mobile operators with
one all-encompassing solution for the collection; analysis and processing of
data that help to optimize and troubleshoot 2G, 3G and also LTE (4G)
network, as well as carry out comparisons with other networks.
Figure 3.2: Drive test data collection set up
46
3.7 Implemented Action Plan
3.7.1
Geographic Description of the Propagation Terrain
Mogadishu is the capital city of Somalia located on Latitude 2.0333 N and

Longitude 45.3500 E. The area under study is Siliga area Wadajir district
Mogadishu Somalia on the Latitude 2.03415N and Longitude 45.29065E. Siliga is
categorized as a suburban environment with narrow streets and low buildings mainly
made up of aluminum sheets. Table 3.1 gives information about the target area and
all serving sectors of the base station.
Figure 3.3: Aerial view of the target area (Siliga, Mogadishu)
47
Table 3.1: Selected serving sectors of the base station

BTS Name
Longitude
Latitude
1142_BAN_SILIGA_900
1142_BAN_SILIGA_1800
BTS
Configuration
45.29065
2.03415
S444/S888
45.2917
2.0263
S444/S888
45.29405
2.03882
S444/S888
45.29829
2.02697
S444/S888
45.302735
2.028789
1069_BAN_JIIRO MISKIIN_900
1164_BAN_ADC_B
1066_BAN_BUULA XUUBEEY_900
1167_BAN_JAMACADA
S444/S888
HORMUUD2_1800
1128_BAN_ISB.BANAADIR_1800
45.2995
2.0358
S444/S888
45.29964
2.0395
S444/S888
1046_BAN_SEEY PIANO_900
3.7.2
Data Collection Process
A drive test was conducted to obtain the actual field measurement data which
was later used for analysis process. The drive test equipment set up consists of a
laptop (having Transmission Evaluation and Monitoring System (TEMS)
investigation software installed on it), a power supply unit, TEMS Mobile Station,
Global Positioning System (GPS) and a vehicle. TEMS Investigation software
offered the capabilities of data collection, real-time analysis and post-processing, all
in one. Furthermore, TEMS investigation can provide important features such as
continuous scanning of GPS coordinates, received signal level, channel number and
base station identity codes (BSIC). An illustration of the setup is given in figure ().
Data were collected in the drive test mode as log files and they were played back in
the replay mode for inspection and analysis
48
3.7.3
Drive Test Survey Route
The drive test survey route was carefully planned with the aid of road and
vector maps such that the measurement collection process involved all the base
stations earlier marked out for investigation. The routes covered in this study were
Siliga road and Nasteha road; this gives easy access to the coverage areas of the
respective cells investigated.
Figure3.4: Drive test coverage plot

3.8 Summary
Radio network optimization and planning has a greater importance for live
systems and future network expansion as well. In GSM, optimization is a routine job
intended for attaining good performance. The work in this thesis particularly focuses
on intra-BSC handover related aspects. Drive test is made using Ascom Network
Testings TEMS Investigation together with necessary materials such as GPS and
measurement Devices, to collect real data from a preplanned rout with several base
stations serving in Siliga area under Hormuud telecoms 2G network.
CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND ANALYSIS
4.1 Introduction
In this chapter, the data collected for the study area is deeply examined. The
information was collected and processed through drive testing process using TEMS
(Test Mobile Systems) investigation, the output is portrayed in the form of screen
snap shots of the TEMS log files, BS data in the BSC configuration and TEMS line
charts. The data collected is analyzed in a way to comply with the objectives of the
study. These outputs of the examined HO optimization aspects include, several HO
failures, Ping-Pong HO and positive handover trends as well.
Through
the
analysis
of
intra-BSC
handover
optimization
data,
complications related to inter BS handover are located and then proper regulations
are made. Furthermore, the data collection tool consisted of ascom TEMS tool with
an antenna mounted on a moving vehicle; 1.5 meter above ground level, GPS,
personal computer and a piece of compass. The PC houses the operating system and
the data collection software (ascom TEMS Investigation 14.1). The personal
computer serves as the communication hub for all other equipment in the system.
The GPS operates with global positioning satellites to provide the location tracking
for the system during data collection position on a global map which has been
installed on the personal computer.
50
Drive test data is collected from a preplanned route with seven serving sites
(receiving strongest signals from them) under the same BSC. A long call
examination was established observing more closely to handover relating events.
The seven serving sites with their primary descriptions are shown in the in the table
below.
Table 4.1: Target area and all serving sectors of the base station.
BTS Name
Longitude
Latitude
1142_BAN_SILIGA_900
1142_BAN_SILIGA_1800
BTS
Configuration
45.29065
2.03415
S444/S888
45.2917
2.0263
S444/S888
45.29405
2.03882
S444/S888
45.29829
2.02697
S444/S888
45.302735
2.028789
1164_BAN_ADC_B_1800
1167_BAN_JAMACADA
S444/S888
HORMUUD2_1800
1128_BAN_ISB.BANAADIR_1800
45.2995
2.0358
S444/S888
45.29964
2.0395
S444/S888
As the vehicle started moving and the call established, log files started
recording data. More data is recorded by the drive test tool but those concerning
handover and their underlying events were firmly monitored. The following steps
are used for the analysis procedure:
1. Targeting both positive and negative network trends.
2. Identifying the possible causes of each problem points on TEMS.
3. Checking significant parameters such as BSC data configuration, traffic
statistic and BS alarms.
4. Proposing possible solutions and recommendation.
51
4.2 Observed cases and their corresponding analysis
In the course of the analysis of intra-BSC handover related data collected

from the selected area, more handover-related cases; both ups and downs immerged
and some of those cases are dissected in the following sections.
4.2.1
Hand failure due to lack of resources
In this case, handover failure occurs due to the unavailability of time slots
because of high traffic, congestion, low signal strength or bad quality on target cell.
This condition occurred between Siliga_B (ARFCN=14, BSIC=20) and Siliga_F
(ARFCN=535, BSIC=05). This case could be solved by increasing the capacity or HO
reserve channels of the BSs to host potential handovers.
Figure 4.1: Handover failure for lack of resources
52
4.2.2
Hand failure due to missing neighbor
If a handover is not completed to a neighbor cell that seems to be best server,

there is a possibility of a missing neighbor relation. This will happen with sudden
appearance of strong cell in the neighbor list just after a handover. Missing neighbor
scenario exists between Serving cell MDN_CEELQALAW_E (ARFCN: 525 BSIC: 0-3)
and JIIRO MISKIIN_E (ARFCN: 514 BSIC: 7-3).
Missing neighbor
ARFCN: 514 BSIC: 7-3
Figure 4.2: Hand Failure Due to Missing Neighbor
4.2.2.2 Recommended solution for missing neighbor HO failure
Missing neighbor problem could be resolved by configuring each BS with

proper data concerning neighboring cells that can have potential possibilities of
handover. After all BSs are being introduced each other, each one accepts handover
from others and then no more missing neighbor problem to happen.
53
4.2.3
One way Neighbor
A neighbor relation needs to be defined as mutual. When defining cell A and Cell B
as neighbors to each other, neighbor relation from A to B and from B to A has to be defined.
Otherwise the HO attempt is not possible in both directions. It should be remembered that
there will be rare cases where planner will need oneway neighbor relations.
Figure 4.3: Hand failure due to one way neighbor

4.2.3.2 Recommended solution for one way neighbor HO failure
When deploying a new site, many different things should be considered.

Excellent frequency planning together with more cautious configuration is
recommended, at this stage, each cell should be configured with bidirectional
neighboring.
54
4.2.4
Ping Pong
Pingpong is termed as a series of successive handovers occurring more

frequently than normal handovers. It of course loads the system. Pingpong effect
can be as a result of fading, the MS moving in a zigzag pattern between the cells,
incorrect handover margins or by nonlinearity in the receiver. All these cases will
cause pingpong handovers. Ping-Pong scenario is observed in an area served by
XRN_MADIINA, XALANE, TAHLIIL WARSAME and AIRPORT1.
Figure 4.4: Ping-Pong
4.2.4.2 Recommended solution for Ping-Pong HO
A hysteresis criteria is one strategy used to prevent the pingpong effect. First thing
to check whenever Ping-Pong scenario is detected will be handover margins between the
neighbors. And the margins should be matched.
55
4.2.5
Lack of late Handover
In some abnormal cases, handover process take place a little late. Because of
mismatched handover margins between the neighbors. This study, however, showed that
there is no late handovers in the study area. One example is that occurred in between
Serving cell 1033_XRN_MADINA_E( BCCH ARFCN: 518 and BSIC: 1-7) and
Target cell 1072_TAHLIIL WARSAME_F (BCCH ARFCN: 520 BSIC: 5-3).
Figure 4.5: Smooth handover case
This study was not only for finding faults, but also acknowledges positive
trends encountered throughout data collection process. The lack of late handover
scenario falsifies one of the major study hypothesis that was the existence of all sorts
of handover problems in the area explored.
56
4.3 Drive test KPI Reports
The table below shows some key indicators recorded in the log files of the
drive test by establishing long call (Total duration: 02:45:47.66) in BSC5 west rout.
And one key important point is that handover failure rate is 2.21% which is
remarkable. Dropped calls also exist and one of its main contributor is handover
problem.
Table 4.2: TEMS generated report

Event occurrence Number of times
Blocked Call
Call Attempt
Call Setup
Dropped Call
Handover
226
Handover Failure 5
4.4 Summary
Intra-BSC handover is an important parameter and being optimized

contributes more to the network quality. This chapter presents some existing cases
such as handover process failures and unnecessary handover blunders as well. It also
contributes possible way-outs and recommendations to resolve those glitches.
Admitting the positive side of the findings, this chapter emphasis on the on the
existence of more miserable than admirable experiences in the study area and calls
more actions to be taken.
CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK
5.1 Conclusion
In this thesis, intra-BSC handover related cases has being investigated in the
GSM network of Hormuud telecom carrying out drive test campaign on a given small
study area in Wadajir district called Siliga. At the beginning of the study, the first
hypothesis was the existence of all sorts of handover problems, but the study proved
the existence of some sort of positive handover trends. Some of the HO failures
detected come to exist as a result of missing neighbor relationships, lack of resources,
one way neighbor or Pingpong effect. Although this study is intended for finding
handover hampering elements, it has also revealed certain positive remarks for some
handover related cases such as the lack of late handover scenario.
The main notion behind this study was to dissect all handover problems
existing in the GSM network of Hormuud telecom serving in the selected area and
eventually come up with possible recommendations to solve detected glitches.
Chapter four of this thesis, however, presents some of the hunted cases in the study
and endorses some recommendations to rectify current and potential possible future
failures. The preliminary experiences of the application of the data provided by this
thesis, however, contributed more to the work of RNO teams by shading some light
on some critical and quality-threatening factors.
58
5.2 Future Work
Countless efforts have been paid on getting this work complete in all aspects.
But as with all projects, there is always a room for improvements and further
enchantments. Same is the case with this thesis work. This study has being basically
conducted on handover on the basis of intra-BSC level; more exploration could be
made on the other levels both higher and lower, such as intra-MSC handover, interMSC handover and intra-BS handover related aspects.
This study, however, covers basic measurement levels, no more algorithms

examined in it. But, since the GSM network components was manufactured by one
specific Company, their particular algorithms play a role on the systems investigated.
For other researchers interested in algorithm exploration, there is a room for them to
conduct a very advanced form of study on algorithms.
59
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APPENDIX A
STATISTICAL REPORT FROM THE TEMS LOG FILES
62
APPENDIX B
MAP OF MOGADISHU
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UNIVERSITY OF HORMUUD

DECLARATION OF THESIS / UNDERGRADUATE PROJECT PAPER AND COPYRIGHT

Authors full names:

ABDISALAM ABDULAHI MOHAMED

INTRA-BSC HANDOVER OPTIMIZATION FOR GSM

I declare that this thesis is classified as:

(Contains confidential information)

(Contains restricted information as specified

I agree that my thesis to be published as

We acknowledged that University of Hormuud reserves the right as

1. The thesis is the property of University of Hormuud.

I hereby declare that I have read this project report and in my

BURHAN OMAR SHEIKH AHMED

1st August, 2015

INTRA-BSC HANDOVER OPTIMIZATION FOR GSM QUALITY OF SERVICE

ABDISALAM ABDULAHI MOHAMED

A project report submitted in partial fulfilment of the

: Abdisalam Abdulahi Mohamed

: Abdirahman Mohamed Omar

: Alisalad Alasow Mohamed

: 1st August, 2015

Thanks to ALLAH for all blesses

Background of the study

Specific research objectives

Hypothesis of the study

Significance of the study

Significance of the study

Organisation of the thesis

BACKGROUND AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Background and overview

Global system for mobile communication (GSM)

GSM network architecture

GSM radio interface

2.4.3.1 Physical channels

2.4.3.2 Physical channels

2.4.3.2.1 Broadcast control channel

2.4.3.2.2 Common Control Channel

Channel Allocation and bandwidth management

2.5.4.1 Requirements for GSM handover

2.5.4.2 Handover Management

2.5.4.3 Handover strategies

2.5.4.3.1 Network Controlled Handover

2.5.4.3.2 Mobile Assisted Handover

2.5.4.3.3 Mobile Controlled Handover

2.5.4.5 Handover schemes

2.5.4.5.1 Guard Channels

2.5.4.5.2 Queuing Handover Calls

2.5.4.5.3 Sub Rating Schemes

2.5.4.5.4 Generic Handover Schemes

2.5.4.5.5 Hybrid Handover Schemes

2.5.4.6 Handover Algorithm

2.5.4.6.1 Conventional Handover Algorithm

2.5.4.6.2 Velocity Based on Algorithm

2.5.4.6.3 Direction Biased algorithms

2.5.4.6.4 Signal Interference Based

2.5.4.7 Performance metrics for Handover

2.5.4.8 Types of handover

2.5.4.8.1 Hard handover (HHO)

2.5.4.8.2 Soft handover (SHO)

GSM network Evaluation criteria

Key Performance Indicators assessment and QOS

Radio network planning and optimization

Radio network planning and optimization follow

GSM radio network optimization