Documenti di Didattica
Documenti di Professioni
Documenti di Cultura
1.1 Development
In the GSM 900 standard, a frequency range between 890 and 915 MHz was
assigned to the uplink, and a range between 935 and 960 MHz was assigned to
the downlink.
In GSM 1800, the frequency ranges 1710 - 1785 MHz were added in the uplink
and 1805 - 1880 MHz in the downlink.
In 1995, GSM 1900, with its own frequency range from 1850 to 1910 MHz in the
uplink and 1930 to 1990 MHz in the downlink, was implemented in America. At
the end of 1996, there were already 120 GSM networks in operation, and within
the year 2000 there were already 150 million GSM users all over the world.
The GSM specification had to consider the following: The system had to
• Function Europe-wide
• Provide a high speech quality
• Use the available frequencies as efficiently as possible
• Provide ISDN service characteristics
• Be compatible with other ways of data transmission and
• Meet high security requirements as far as the customers and the
transmitted information were concerned.
Many of these conditions have been turned into advantages for the users of
today:
• The available frequencies are used efficiently.
• The average speech quality is higher than in analog mobile networks.
• Speech encryption guarantees the security standards.
• A wider range of services is provided compared to analog cell networks,
like voice-, fax-, data- or Internet services.
• International roaming between all the GSM countries is possible.
• Furthermore, international competition reduces the prices.
Today, GSM is the first digital cellular mobile communication system to enable
international roaming and ISDN service characteristics.
• Now, over 300 network operators in 130 countries are offering GSM
services.
• Over 150 million customers use GSM.
• A considerable share of the world-wide telecommunication market goes to
GSM products and -services.
The cellular structure in GSM provides an almost complete radio coverage. The
system allows a maximum distance of 35 kilometers between the mobile station
and the base station. Therefore, the geographical area where GSM is used must
be subdivided into smaller areas, which are known as cells.
The cell size must be adjusted to the subscriber density and to the environment.
If a subscriber moves from one cell to another during a call, the connection is
handed over from the old radio station to the new radio station, without any
interruptions. This procedure is called "handover".
GSM distinguishes different channels on the basis of their frequency. Each cell is
assigned one or more frequencies, which it uses to serve active subscribers. An
uplink/downlink frequency pair can be used by up to 8 mobile stations practically
simultaneously. This is done with the help of the Time Division Multiple Access
(TDMA). Since there is only a limited amount of available traffic channels, high
subscriber numbers require that the frequencies be used several times. This is
not an insoluble problem, since several cells can use the same frequency,
provided that the distance between the cells is sufficient. But it sometimes makes
network planning a very complex task.
Thus GSM offers capacity for more subscribers than one would expect in view of
the very limited supply of frequency resources.
The first one is the air interface, located between the mobile and the base
station.
The other one is the A-interface between the Base Station Subsystem (BSS) and
the Network Subsystem (NSS). The GSM network structure is decentralized, and
consists of three separate subsystems communicating with each other over a
series of interfaces. Apart from the Network Subsystem for routing, and
subscriber localisation, and the Base Station Subsystem (BSS) for radio
coverage and radio resource management, there is also the Operation &
Maintenance Subsystem (OMS), which guarantees network management and
administration.
GSM has been designed, above all, for speech communication. Although the
standard also offers data services, their possibilities are limited by a data rate of
9.6 kbps. To meet the growing demands of increasingly complex data
applications, e.g. in the multimedia or Internet sector, higher data rates are
necessary. Therefore, the system's capacity is constantly being enhanced.
1.3.1 HSCSD
One extension of the GSM standard is High Speed Circuit Switched Data
(HSCSD). This innovation gives the bit rates an enormous boost. HSCSD is
circuit-switched and optimizes the existing transmission rates in two respects:
Secondly, the bundling of up to 4 timeslots can increase the user data rate to
57.6 kbps. This allows, for example,
1.3.2 GPRS
Thus, billing is no longer based on the duration of the call, but on the amount of
transmitted data. Additionally, the type of data service can be charged, for
example web browsing or WAP access.
1.3.3 EDGE
This technology allows data rates of almost 474 kbps per user. On the other
hand, EDGE is very bit error sensitive and requires careful planning and a
sufficient number of base stations.
1.3.4 UMTS
2 GSM Services
2.1 Classification
The GSM services subdivide into the Bearer Services and the Teleservices.
These base services are supplemented by the Supplementary Services. In
addition, we have the Value Added Services.
GSM specifies a huge variety of Bearer Services for data transmission. Bit rates
between 300 and 9,600bps can be chosen according to data terminal equipment
and the interference situation of the air interface. With HSCSD, the data rate may
increase to 57.6 kbps.
All Bearer Services are handled as circuit-switched services between the mobile
data equipment and the NSS requiring a permanent link between the involved
components.
A converter, called Packet Assembler-Disassembler or PAD, is used to adapt
these signals to the packet-switched mode in public data networks, e.g. the
Internet. With GPRS, a total packet-switched transmission is provided between
all data terminal equipment at a maximum bit rate of 171.2 kbps.
2.3 Teleservices
Short messages can be received at any time, even during a call, and are
transmitted over signalling channels. Whereas normal short messages are stored
temporarily in the Short Message Service Center SMSC, with Cell Broadcast
they are stored in the Base Station Controller BSC.
The fax services, also referred to as Group 3 facsimile, provide automatic fax
service between a mobile fax and a fax machine within a PSTN, or between 2
mobile fax terminals, each with its own MSISDN at a maximum speed of 9.6
kbps.
First, there are those services which are provided by the service provider and
made available to a customer.
Then there are the services which are invoked by a customer. The desired
service is, for example, activated by a customer pressing a particular key, as is
the case with line identification.
Using Calling Line Identification Restriction (CLIR), the calling party can restrict
its call number, so it cannot be identified by the called party. An appropriate
instruction is sent from the caller's network to the network of the recipient. Some
networks allow particular user groups, such as the police, to identify a call
number even if the CLIR service is activated.
In accordance with CLIP and CLIR, there is the Connected Line Identification
Presentation, COLP, for identification of the called party by the caller, and
Connected Line Identification Restriction, COLR, if the called party does not want
to be identified by the caller. COLP and COLR come into play when the called
party has diverted its number to another number.
Call Offering Services are services which allow a customer to forward incoming
calls to other target numbers.
Call Forwarding Unconditional CFU ensures that all incoming calls are diverted to
a number specified by the customer, independent of the conditions of the call.
Call Forwarding on mobile Subscriber Busy CFB diverts calls only if the called
subscriber is making a call and the line is busy. Calls can also be diverted if the
called party can't be reached - because it currently has no network access,
because the phone is switched off, or because the call is not accepted.
Supported by the Optimal Routing Service SOR - a GSM Phase 2+ feature - calls
are routed directly to the subscriber's current location. This service is based on
the information provided by the called subscriber's home network. As an option,
the network may permit or deny SOR on a per call basis. SOR has not yet been
implemented.
Call Completion Services allow the customer to postpone incoming calls which
he is currently not able to accept, as well as to hold calls while simultaneously
making another call.
Call Waiting CW notifies the customer of an incoming call when no traffic channel
is available, and the customer is engaged in an active or held call. The customer
now has from half a minute to two minutes time to decide whether to accept,
reject or ignore the postponed call.
The Call Holding Service HOLD permits the customer to interrupt communication
on the active call for another call, without losing the connection to the first call.
This is because the traffic channel remains assigned to the customer even after
interruption of the active call, so he can resume the communication.
Closed User Group (CUG) gives a particular group of customers the opportunity
to communicate with each other in PLMN or ISDN networks. The members of a
Closed User Group can't communicate with subscribers outside the group. If
desired, one or more subscribers in this group can be authorised to call
subscribers outside, or to receive calls from them.
With Reverse Charging, on the other hand, a called subscriber can be charged
for certain calls. For this purpose, each individual call is analyzed and evaluated.
Reverse Charging is activated at request by the calling subscriber, and must be
permitted by the called subscriber. At present, Reverse Charging is not
implemented in GSM networks.
There are basically two categories of Call Restriction Services: one refers to
outgoing calls, and the other to incoming calls. The service offers several
possibilities, such as:
or
• Barring all incoming calls except those coming from the country of the
home network.
Value Added Services are supplied by the respective Service Provider or network
operator, and can be transmitted either via a normal telephone call or via SMS.
These services offer the supplier a further opportunity - apart from price - to
attract customers.
3 Network Architecture
3.1 Network Elements and their Basic Functions
For the subscriber, a mobile telephone call is a simple process. In reality, though,
this call is only possible thanks to a complex network architecture consisting of
various different network elements. In this lesson, you' ll get to know the
individual elements of the GSM network and their basic functions.
The Base Station Subsystem BSS provides the connection between the mobile
stations and the Network Subsystem NSS. The NSS forwards user signals to
other mobiles via the BSS or subscribers in the Public Switched Telephone
Network (PSTN), and provides necessary customer data. The Operation &
Maintenance Subsystem (OMS) monitors BSS and NSS performance, and
remotely debugs occurring faults in the network elements.
• The Transcoder.
The central element of one cell of this kind is a transmitting and receiving unit
known as a Base Transceiver Station (BTS). This makes the connection to the
mobile station via the air interface and controls the transceiver (TRX). The
transceiver, the central functional unit of the BTS, maintains calls to a maximum
of 8 mobile stations via one frequency pair each. The BTS is also responsible for
the monitoring of the signal quality and the encoding and modulation of useful
signals. Via the A-bis interface, it forwards calls, signals and control information
destined for the OMS and the NSS to the Base Station Controller (BSC).
This assigns free radio channels in the TRX for the link to the mobile station. It
controls the necessary output power for mobile station and TRX. It monitors the
existing radio link to and from the mobile station and controls handover between
neighboring radio cells if they are under its control. During an existing radio
connection, the BSC monitors its quality and controls disconnection of the radio
link when the call is over. The BSC communicates with the transcoder (TC) via
the A-ter interface.
The transcoder is the third element in the BSS and is needed to convert 64 kbps
original speech into a 16 kbps signal of speech description parameters to ensure
a spectrum-efficient modulation on the air interface. BTS, BSC and TC together
form the Base Station Subsystem (BSS).
The Base Station Subsystem forwards the signals to the Network Subsystem
(NSS) where speech and circuit-switched data are controlled and forwarded to
other networks if necessary. The NSS provides data relevant to security and
mobility.
The speech signals processed by the transcoder reach the Mobile Services
Switching Center (MSC) via the A interface. The MSC serves as a digital
exchange for the forwarding of messages, connecting mobile subscribers with
each other or with subscribers in other networks such as the Public Switched
Telephone Network, the ISDN network, or data networks.
In order to monitor, route and control mobile telephone calls in GSM networks,
several registers are connected to the MSC.
One of these registers is the Visitor Location Register (VLR), which is usually to
be found in the MSC, but is a functional unit in its own right. It is designed as a
dynamic subscriber file with dedicated geographical areas of responsibility, the
so-called Location Areas. The VLR acquires the data of all GSM customers in its
areas and is always well informed of their whereabouts. It assists the MSC in the
acquisition of charge-relevant data with subscriber information. The bills are
prepared from these data in the Billing Center. But where does the VLR get the
GSM customer data from?
For GSM customer data acquisition, there is a register, the so-called Home
Location Register (HLR), in which each network operator registers the customer
data necessary for dealing with traffic. The HLR supplies these data to all VLRs
in which the GSM customers involved are to be found at any given moment.
Inversely, the VLR in question informs the HLR of the location area of the
customer, and is thus able to give routing information when calls come in. The
HLR data contain information on access rights with regard to roaming, service
rights with regard to voice, fax and data services, and additional subscribed
services.
The GSM network is monitored and controlled from a central point. This is the
Operation and Maintenance Center (OMC).
1. The Fault Management system analyses alarms from the BSS elements.
When faults occur, they are eliminated when necessary via software command or
in situ by technicians.
2. The Configuration Management function installs the software when new BSS
network elements are implemented, manages hardware inventory lists, and
changes operation parameters, for example for radio frequencies of a BTS.
and
• The service quality is monitored, for example the Dropped Call Rate in
percent. Depending on the network operator, the NMC functions are
carried out in a centralised or decentralised way in the geographical areas.
All NMC and OMC of a certain defined geographical area form the third
subsystem, the Operation and Maintenance Subsystem, or OMS.
The three subsystems BSS, NSS and OMS are vital for the operation of a GSM
network. The interfaces within and between the subsystems are mostly specified
by the ETSI.
3.1.4 Additional GSM Components
For dealing with customer support and supplying certain services, GSM includes
a number of additional components. The Administration & Billing Center ABC
transfers customer data to the appropriate registers of the NSS and into the AUC
and the HLR. The Administration Center is connected to the Personalization
Center for SIM Cards (PCS) via an interface. This makes it possible to disable
the SIM card if necessary and protect it from abuse. The so-called Call Detail
Records are used in the Billing Center for bill preparation.
The Voice Mail System (VMS) is a memory system for voice, data and fax
messages spread over the network, i.e. a large-scale answering machine. If a
subscriber has switched off his mobile station or can't be reached for other
reasons, the messages are not sent to his mobile station but are fed directly into
the VMS and stored there. The subscriber can either request them from the VMS
or he is notified via SMS. The VMS can have interfaces to several MSCs and to
the Short Message Service Center.
Via the Short Message Service Center (SMS-C), network operators, service
providers and private customers can send short messages directly onto the
mobile station of any subscriber. In the SMS-C, the short messages are stored
temporarily and forwarded to the recipient.
In order that data can be fed into the GSM network from packet-switched
networks such as the Internet or company Intranets, a so-called Interworking
Function (IWF) is required. This is an external data server connected to the
different data networks. The IWF translates the unstructured incoming packet-
switched data into circuit-switched signals which can be understood by GSM. A
firewall upstream of the IWF protects the GSM network from unauthorised
access by hackers.
In GSM, the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) is a cellular network with a
hierarchical structure.
The smallest unit is the radio cell, which the BTS supplies with frequencies, or, in
other words, radio channels. It provides the network coverage. Several radio
cells are put together to form administrative areas controlled by a BSC. Various
areas controlled by one BSC each form a location area controlled by a VLR. It is
also possible for a Location Area to cover one BSC only, or even one cell, if
reasonable. If a mobile phone subscriber changes to a new Location Area, a
Location Update takes place automatically, so the location of the subscriber is
known to the network via a VLR linked to the MSC.
In order to supply areas with a large number of mobile phone users, so-called
microcells are used.
Thus, for example, BTS with a low output are used in underground stations.
These take over the radio supply on the platform or, with special antennae, in the
subway tunnels.
4 BSS Interfaces
4.1 The BSS Interfaces
Within the BSS, the user- and signalling data is transported over a series of
interfaces. The A interface connects the Mobile Services Switching Center (MSC)
with the Transcoder TC.
The A-ter interface connects the Transcoder with the Base Station Controller
(BSC). The A-bis interface connects the BSC with the Base Transceiver Station
(BTS). Finally, the data is transmitted to the mobile station via the air interface
Um.
Let's consider the PCM30 configuration as an example for the frame structure of
data transmission between the MSC and the mobile station, to understand the
dataflow at the A interface, the A-ter, A-bis and Um interfaces.
We see that the 4 A-links are mapped onto one A-ter link. 4 A-channels of 64
kbps each are mapped onto an A-ter channel consisting of 4 subchannels of 16
kbps each. In total, the 128 channels of 4 A-links are reduced to the 32 channels
of one A-ter link, which are numbered consecutively from 0 to 31. The SS7
signalling, which in our example is to be found in timeslot No 16, is transmitted
from A to A-ter transparently, i.e. unchanged.
The frame structure consisting of 32 channels is also found at the A-bis interface.
Channel 0 is used for synchronization, the remaining 31 channels transmit
warning information for operation and maintenance of the BTS, known as O&M
alarms, as well as signalling and voice data. Finally, the information from A-bis is
transmitted to the air interface Um via the TRXs, the radio transceivers of the
BTS. Two A-bis channels of 4 subchannels each correspond exactly to the eight
timeslots of a TDMA frame, which carries the data to the mobile station. A TDMA
frame, which we will discuss in more detail later in the course, portions the
stream of physical channels or timeslots on a particular carrier frequency into
periods.
Its timeslots are numbered consecutively from 0 to 7, and can be assigned to one
TRX.
The A-interface transmits user and signalling data between the MSC and the
transcoder. It's the second completely standardized interface in GSM after the air
interface. As an open interface it is not tied to a specific producer.
The A-interface is an ISDN-S2M interface that has been adjusted to GSM with a
data rate of 64 kbps per timeslot. In the PCM30 configuration, the A interface
contains 30 traffic channels. Timeslot number 0 takes over synchronization tasks,
and timeslot number 16 contains signalling information in the No 7 signalling
system format, or SS7. Thus the air interface has an overall bit rate of 2048 kbps.
The PCM24 configuration, which is generally used in the USA, uses 24 traffic
channels. In both configurations, each frame has clearly defined channels for
signalling and synchronisation information.
4 traffic channels of the A interface are bundled into four A-ter channels of 16
kbps each, which are subsequently transmittted to the BSC in a 64 kbps physical
A-ter timeslot.
Conversely, signals coming from the BSC are transcoded from 16 to 64 kbps,
which is the bit rate typically used in fixed networks. Signalling channels are not
transcoded. At the A-ter interface, 120 speech channels of 16 kbps each form a 2
Mbit/s multiplex connection. Four times as many A links as A-ter links are
necessary to transmit the same amount of voice data.
Now let's turn to a procedure which takes the original speech, and generates the
speech description parameters in the TC.
During the first phase of GSM, which lasted until 1995, a speech codec in the MS
and in the transcoder was specified as the Full-Rate Codec. The basic
characteristics of speech, that is the volume, the base frequency, and the tone,
are extracted in 20 ms segments from the 64 kbps signal so that descriptive
parameters in 16 kbps signals are generated. The prediction algorithms, that is to
say the calculability of speech, make the data less sensitive to the interference a
signal meets on its way from and to the mobile station at the air interface.
In GSM, all voice signals are transmitted the same way and in a continuous data
stream. The channel is occupied even during silence intervals. This has two
fundamental disadvantages:
1. Since the mobile station must send for the whole duration of the call,
transmitting power is used even in silence intervals, i.e. when the
subscriber is only listening. This wastes the mobile station's battery power.
2. Other subscribers using the same frequency in distant cells could be
disturbed more than necessary.
Therefore it is logical to switch off the sender whenever the subscriber is not
actively transmitting information. Considering the pauses in the dialogue, and
also the pauses between and within the sentences, we will find that the average
occupation of the radio link is less than 40%.
In DTX, a function known as voice activity detection switches off the sender of a
mobile station whenever there is no data to be transmitted.
During speech pauses, a "stopgap" in the receiver, which in the uplink is the
corresponding transcoder element in the TC, must simulate a functioning channel
for the user. In GSM this is called "comfort noise". It is the background noise
analysed before the MS is switched off, re-generated by the TC. The comfort
noise is even updated during a speech pause, by the mobile station transmitting
relevant information to the TC.
The A-bis interface connects the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) with the Base
Station Controller (BSC). In the PCM30 configuration, the data at this interface is
transmitted via cable or via microwave transmission at a bit rate of 2 Mbit/s. A
cable connection is more resistent to interference, but a network operator must
lease it from a fixed network operator.
The microwave links can be operated independently, and are easily configured
by the network operator, but they are more sensitive to interference. 4 types of
information can be transmitted over the A-bis interface: user information,
synchronisation data, signalling information, and data for the operation and
maintenance of the BTS, known as O&M alarms.
In the basic configuration, the channels of the A-bis interface are directly
connected to the timeslots of the radio transmission at the air interface. The
physical data rate is 64 kbps. In PCM30, timeslot 0 of the A-bis interface is used
for synchronization. The remaining 31 timeslots of the PCM30 configuration carry
data from and to the transceivers of the BTS, as well as signalling information
and O&M alarms.
Today's BSC - BTS connection can also be configured as a dynamic link with
variable signaling and traffic time slots, according to the current traffic situation.
Two PCM30 channels can be assigned to one TRX. These channels consist of 4
sub-timeslots each. Each PCM30-subtimeslot corresponds to a timeslot in the
TRX. Thus, by mapping 8 PCM30 sub-timeslots onto one TDMA frame consisting
of timeslots 0 to 7, the entire TDMA frame of the TRX would theoretically be
available for the transmission of payload data. But then there wouldn't be enough
space left for the necessary signalling traffic from and to the mobile stations.
According to a fixed, producer-, and configuration-specific pattern, the signalling
information is carried in specific A-bis timeslots of 64 kbps each, or in 16 kbps
sub-timeslots, to at least 1 TRX per cell, where it uses timeslot 0 to be
transmitted over the air interface.
Special timeslots carry the O&M alarm traffic between the OMC and the BTS
over the BSC. The information is, of course, not transmitted over the air interface.
As we could see at the A-ter interface, each 16 kbps of a traffic channel consist
of 13 kbps of payload and 3 of inband signalling between the BTS and the
transcoder.
Only the 13 kbps of payload data may be transmitted over the air interface.
In the PCM24 configuration, 24 channels achieve an overall bit rate of 1536 kbps
at the A-bis interface. Up to 10 transceivers can be assigned to a connection.
Let's summarize what we have learned about the three terrestrial interfaces A, A-
ter and A-bis:
Each of these three interfaces transmits information for the synchronization of the
individual network elements point-to-point, at a data rate of 64 kbps, and using
timeslot 0.
The transcoder merely forwards the SS7 signalling between the MSC and the
BSC. This is done transparently, at a bit rate of 64 kbps, both over the A and
over the A-ter interface, for example in timeslot 16. The TRX-related signalling
between the BSC and the BTS is transmitted over the A-bis interface at 16, 32 or
64 kbps, depending on the producer. O&M alarms from the transcoder are
transmitted to the BSC over the A-ter interface at 16 kbps, or as inband signals
through a normal traffic channel. O&M alarms from the BTS are transmitted to
the BSC, which is also the O&M master for the entire BSS, over the A-bis
interface at 16 or at 64 kbps. If the BSC is unable to correct the errors that
caused the alarms, or if it detects an error within itself, it informs the OMC
directly, or forwards the alarms from the BTS or TC to it.
Let's consider the transmission of speech and user data, which is transmitted at a
data rate of 64 kbps over the A interface, at 16 kbps over the A-ter interface -
after being turned into transcoded speech or rate adapted data - and also at 16
kbps per subchannel over the A-bis interface. SMS messages are transmitted via
signalling channels. The number of physical timeslots that's available for the
transmission of signalling information over the air interface depends on the
configuration, and is up to the manufacturer or to the operator.
Within mobile radio networks, data is transmitted over PCM lines at a bit rate of 2
Mbit/s. Air transmission is used between the mobile station and the BTS, and the
information transmitted over the air interface must be adjusted to the PCM lines
so it can pass through the rest of the network. The air interface, or Um, is the
weakest part of a radio link. In GSM, a lot is done to ensure high quality, security,
and reliability.
At the air interface, the frequencies are arranged in pairs. Each uplink frequency
has a downlink frequency permanently assigned to it. The uplink signal goes
from the mobile station to the base station, and the downlink signal goes in the
opposite direction - from the base station to the mobile. The arrangement in pairs
is what actually enables simultaneous communication. The difference between
the frequency pair is fixed and is called "duplex frequency". In GSM 900, the
duplex frequency is 45 MHz. Accordingly, the uplink frequency range 890 to 915
MHz, is assigned to a frequency range of 935 to 960 MHz in the downlink. In
GSM 1800, the duplex frequency is 95 MHz. The uplink frequency range lies
between 1710 and 1785 MHz, the downlink frequency range between 1805 and
1880 MHz. In GSM 1900, the duplex frequency is 80 MHz. The uplink frequency
lies between 1850 and 1910 MHz, and the downlink frequency between 1930
and 1990 MHz.
The BTS elements which send and receive radio signals in the downlink and
uplink channels, are known as transmitter & receivers, or transceivers (TRX) for
short. In GSM networks, the transmission over the air interface is digital. Digital
transmission in GSM is based on a combination of the FDMA- and the TDMA
methods, which already have been introduced. In Frequency Division Multiple
Access - or FDMA - different frequency channels are assigned to each BTS.
Mobile phones in neighbouring cells - or within the same cell - can be used
simultaneously, but occupy different frequencies. The FDMA method uses
different carrier frequencies - 124 in GSM 900, 374 in GSM 1800, and 299 in
GSM 1900.
To send digital information over the air interface, the analog radio signals must
be interpreted as bit signals. This process - the transmission of digital information
to the air interface - is called modulation. Modulation takes advantage of the
physical characteristics of analog signals, and changes them in a certain way,
depending whether the digital value to be transmitted is 1 or 0. Signals can be
modulated on the basis of their amplitude, their frequency, or their phase. GSM
uses a specific phase modulation known as the Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying,
or GMSK.
Thus, the physical channels provide the resources used to transmit specific types
of information. The types of information and the functions define the logical
channels. The logical channels differ according to the function they fulfil in data
transmission.
The information which is physically transmitted over the air interface Um via the
physical channels must be converted into a 16 kbps signal within a 2 Mbit/s
Frame, which connects the BTS and the BSC as the A-bis interface. It is very
important that all mobile stations within a cell send their digital information at the
right moment, in order to avoid collisions at the timeslots of the air interface,
which would destroy the transmitted information. Therefore, each mobile station
sends its digital voice data at regular periodic intervals, using a different timeslot
to the other mobile stations within the same cell. The medium for this
transmission process is the timeslots, or physical channels. The content of such
a channel is also known as a burst. Bursts consist of different data blocks
containing payload- as well as security information, to guarantee high data
reliability and transmission quality.
In GSM, there are two types of logical channels: the dedicated channels, and the
common channels. Let's explain the difference between the two with a metaphor
from gardening. If we want to water a whole area, and not a particular plant in it,
we use a watering can.
This metaphor describes the common channels. These supply their data
according to the principle of "equal shares for all", and are not directed to a
specific target. They are used to broadcast information area-wide to all the
mobile stations within the service area of a BTS. This is general signaling
information, for example to log onto the network and cell-broadcast SMS.
If, on the other hand, we only want to water a specific plant and deliberately
leave out the neighbouring ones, we use a jet of water. This metaphor
corresponds to the Dedicated Channels. These are always directed to a
particular addressee. Various types of signalling channels, known as the
dedicated control channels, facilitate communication between the mobile station
and the mobile radio network. And, of course, traffic channels that carry user
speech and data also belong to this category. To understand the tasks of the
individual logical channels, we will now look at how a mobile station logs on to
the network.
After the subscriber has switched on his mobile station and typed in his PIN
code, the mobile station searches for a network. But how does it log on to the
network the subscriber is registered with? For this purpose, the BTS sends out
the Frequency Correction Channel (FCCH) at short regular intervals, to help the
mobile station find a frequency for downlink reception and adjust its frequency
oscillator for the uplink transmission. To do so, it picks out the strongest received
signal. The Synchronization Channel (SCH) then helps the mobile station to
synchronize itself to timeslot 0 sent out by the BTS. This means the mobile
station must adjust to the rhythm given by the BTS.
The SCH contains the TDMA frame number as well as the Base Station Identity
Code, containing basic information about the network operator that can be
compared with the info stored on the SIM card. After this step, the mobile is able
to decide whether it has chosen the proper network. If not, it starts the same
procedure again trying with the second strongest FCCH received.
While the mobile station uses the FCCH to adjust its frequency, and the SCH for
synchronization and network identification, the Broadcast Control Channel
(BCCH), which is also sent by the BTS, supplies the mobile station with
additional information about the selected cell, for example for ciphering. For
some Value Added Services, for example location-dependent services, additional
information has to be transmitted from the BTS to the mobile. The Cell Broadcast
Channel CBCH is used for this purpose to transmit geographical parameters, for
example Gauss-Krueger-Coordinates of the BTS, to the mobile. The FCCH,
SCH, BCCH and CBCH are Broadcast Channels, and exist only in the downlink.
They are the first logical channels belonging to the Common Channels.
The mobile station has now adjusted its frequency and synchronized its TDMAs,
and has picked out the best cell available. But before it can be reached by other
subscribers, and before it can initiate calls, a Location Update and authentication
procedure are necessary. Only after that is the mobile station logged on to the
network and has radio coverage. It can now be reached by other mobile stations,
or initiate a call. For this purpose, Common Control Channels are required.
Common Control Channels are "point-to-multipoint" channels, which exist either
only in the uplink, or only in the downlink.
If the subscriber moves into the service area of another BTS, the handover
command needed is transmitted over the FACCH. This channel is also used for
every call release. During the call, FACCH data is transported over the Traffic
Channel assigned.
User speech and data are transmitted over the traffic channels we have already
spoken about. Traffic channels are bidirectional, and also belong to the group of
dedicated channels.
There are two different channel types supporting different gross bit rates. The
Traffic Channel Full rate (TCH/F) has a gross bit rate of 22.8 kbps. It is used for
speech encoded by a Full Rate or Enhanced Full Rate codec as well as for user
data encapsulating a net bit rate of 9.6 kbps for standard bearer services, 14.4
kbps per timeslot in the case of HSCSD, or up to 21.4 kbps with GPRS. The
Traffic Channel Half rate (TCH/H) supports 11.4 kbps and is only used for Half
Rate codec speech.
Let us sum up what we just learned about the classification of logical channels.
Common channels include FCCH, SCH, BCCH, PCH, RACH, AGCH and, finally,
CBCH. All contain point-to-multipoint signaling information.
To be able to detect and correct bit errors at the air interface, GSM performs
channel coding. This procedure is organized in two consecutive processes: block
coding and convolutional coding.
In block coding, the parameters describing the speech data are first subdivided
into three classes, which define if the data is important, required or unimportant
for speech intelligibility. With convolutional coding, the information relevant to
speech intelligibility is doubled with an arithmetical operation. That means a copy
of the data is made so the data can be restored if necessary. This procedure
allows to fully compensate bit error rates of up to 12.5 % in the secured relevant
data. Channel coding increases the bit rate necessary at the air interface from 13
to 22.8 kbps.
5 NSS Interfaces
5.1 SS7 Signalling and NSS Interfaces
To enable GSM customers to use speech-, fax- and data services wherever they
are within the network, information and data must be exchanged within as well as
between different networks. This process is called signalling. To set up a call,
signalling takes place between subscriber interface points, that is between the
user and the network, as well as between different network elements. To make
sure that the individual elements through which the information travels can
understand each other, they must, as it were, agree on a common official
language. This language is specified by protocols. The protocol used in the
Network Subsystem NSS is called Signalling System No 7 - or SS7. SS7 is
based on the Open System Interconnection model, also called the OSI reference
model.
We will now illustrate in general terms the OSI reference model with an example
from business life. A car manufacturer B orders 1000 tyres from supplier A. This
deal is concluded and signed by two managers at the highest level. For the two
managers, only the outcome of this business deal is important. The process that
takes place in the lower hierarchy to get the tyres from the supplier to the car
manufacturer does not interest them. The managers rely on their purchasing-
and sales departments, which will deal with practical details. The car
manufacturer's purchasing department, however, only communicates with the
supplier's sales department. As soon as the financial transactions are concluded,
the goods can be delivered from A to B.
The purchasing and sales departments are not interested in the practical details
of delivery. At the supplier, the warehouse workers must pack the tyres and load
them on trucks, to get them ready for transport. As soon as the tyres arrive at the
manufacturer, the warehouse workers will unpack the tyres and store them. In
summary, we can say: It's always several levels of a company that collaborate in
a business transaction. The higher levels give the lower levels instructions,
without paying attention to the details of the processes. Communication between
the two companies takes place only between peer levels. With the OSI model, it's
similar.
OSI is a reference model consisting of 7 layers that are based on each other.
Each layer has its own tasks. The lower layer always provides support functions
for the layer above. For a layer, the data transported in the layers underneath is
irrelevant. Communication only takes place between the elements of the same
layer. This type of communication between elements belonging to the same layer
in different systems is known as peer-to-peer communication.
Layer 2 is the Data Link layer. It is responsible for the signalling link management
and data security.
Layer 3 is the Network layer. It contains the information needed for switching and
routing and handles call set-up, -supervision, and -clear down.
Layer 5 is the Session layer. It handles the connections for application processes
as well as charging.
At the top resides layer No 7, the Application layer. It is responsible for the
application protocols and the user interfaces.
and
• The Telephone User Part (TUP) on the user's side, which receives, sends,
and acts on these messages.
The Message Transfer Part (MTP), represents the basis for the entire SS7
system. It transmits messages between network elements. MTP is composed of
three layers. MTP layer 1 defines the physical and electrical characteristics of the
connection. MTP layer 2 supports the error free transmission of signalling
messages between neighboring network elements. MTP layer 3 is responsible
for taking the message from any element in a signalling network to any other
element within the same network.
While MTP is responsible for message transfer, the Telephone User Part (TUP)
represents the protocol used for sending, receiving, and acting on these
messages from the user's point of view. TUP handles call set-up, call supervision
and clear down, and exists for normal public fixed networks, which are also
known as Public Switched Telephone Networks, or PSTN. With the introduction
of the more capable ISDN network, some extra sets of messages became
necessary. These features are contained in the ISUP which replaces the TUP.
TCAP is able, for example, to organize a complex dialogue between an MSC and
an HLR, including a sequence of successive requests and replies. TCAP
functions like a secretary's office, where many different requests are brought into
the correct sequence and distributed. TCAP handles the access to data bases
like the HLR or the VLR. It must exist so that a higher protocol - the Mobile
Application Part (MAP) - can be used.
The Mobile Application Part (MAP) is a GSM specific protocol for non-call-related
applications between elements in the NSS. MAP resides directly on top of TCAP,
which can be used as a "secretary's office" by the MAP, and which coordinates
and guarantees a smooth MAP communication.
This is the case for example with normal call set-up. To put a call through to the
subscriber, the Gateway MSC must request necessary routing data from the
HLR. Thus, there is no data exchange between the GMSC and the HLR, without
the actual call being routed to the HLR. In such cases, the network relies on
MAP, which is used for signalling communication between NSS elements. Please
note: in the MSC-MSC communication, MAP is only used for non-call-related
signalling. To forward a call from an MSC to another MSC, TUP or ISUP is used.
As in all the other elements, MTP is the basis protocol in the MSC/VLR. Without
it, there would be no SS7-based signalling. Furthermore, the MSC needs
TUP/ISUP for call supervision. Since the MSC communicates with the BSC and
the HLR, it also requires BSSAP and MAP, which are both based on SCCP. The
use of MAP requires the presence of TCAP. Thus the MSC, as the key element
of the Network Subsystem NSS, must include the whole range of SS7 protocols.
The HLR is not responsible for call control, and therefore does not need
TUP/ISUP. Furthermore, since it does not have to communicate directly with the
Base Station Controller, BSSAP is not implemented in the HLR. Thus, only the
four protocols MTP, SCCP, TCAP and MAP must be present in the HLR.
Normally, the BSC would manage on BSSAP. But since, in modern networks,
BSSAP is based on the SCCP protocol, whose functionality in turn requires the
presence of MTP, the BSC contains MTP, SCCP and BSSAP.
Communication between network elements always takes place using the relevant
protocols, each protocol relying on the protocols of the layers below. For
example, the signalling from the MSC to a PSTN for call set-up is carried out by
TUP, which is based on MTP in both elements. Or, if an MSC wants to know the
current location of a subscriber, it communicates with the responsible HLR using
MAP. In this communication, TCAP, SCCP and MTP are required. The BSSAP
protocol, on the other hand, is only needed by the MSC when it wants to
communicate with the BSC.
Whereas the elements in the Network Subsystem use SS7, further protocol types
are needed in the Base Station Subsystem.
The BSC and BTS communicate using the Link Access Protocol for the ISDN "D"
channel, or LAP-D. This protocol is also used between the end user and the net
in ISDN networks.
A slightly modified version of the same protocol also exists between the BTS and
the mobile station. Due to the modifications imposed by the characteristics of the
air interface, the protocol is called LAP-Dm. The message structure within LAP-D
resembles that of SS7, but it's limited to the support of point-to-point connections.
Between the NSS elements, data is either exchanged over copper cable or
optical fiber, or via microwave.
All NSS interfaces offer data rates of at least 64 kbps. 2 Mbit/s connections are
the rule. The protocols are based on the SS7 standard.
Two kinds of information are transferred over the different interfaces. Signalling
information such as addressing and "mobility data", and user data, that means
speech, fax- and data messages.
Between the NSS elements we find the following interfaces. Note that the Mobile
Services Center (MSC) and the Visitor Location Register (VLR) form a spatial
unit.
Between the MSC and the VLR we find the B-interface. This interface is used to
transmit signalling data.
The C-interface is located between the MSC and the Home Location Register
(HLR). It is also used exclusively for signalling data.
The D interface provides the connection between the VLR and the HLR. Like the
interfaces B and C, it transmits signalling data.
The E interface is located between two MSCs. Apart from signalling data, user
data and speech can be transmitted as well.
The F interface is located between the MSC and the Equipment Identity Register
(EIR).
If an EIR exists, the interface is used exclusively for signalling data concerning
the IMEI control.
The MSCs which provide connections to another mobile radio network, that is a
Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), or a Public Switched Telephone Network
(PSTN), and which are connected to the HLR, are also known as Gateway-
MSCs, or GMSCs. The interface between the visited network and a GMSC
transmits user- and signalling data.
As a rule, every MSC can function as a GMSC nowadays. From the network
operators' point of view, this is cost-efficient, because the more MSCs can
function as Gateways to other networks, the longer a call can be routed within
the own network before it is handed over to a different network.
6 Basic Procedures
6.1 Numbers-Identities-Codes
In GSM there is a range of numbers and identity codes which are required for the
provision of the basic procedures in a digital mobile network. The following
aspects must be considered:
and
There are several numerical identities for these aspects that will be introduced in
the course of this chapter.
How do you dial this number from a Public Switched Telephone Network, or
PSTN?
First, dial a prefix to distinguish between national and international calls. For
national calls, the prefix is usually zero. For international calls, it is 2 zeros, and
two or three digits, depending on the country. In GSM networks, it is sufficient
simply to enter a ''+'' sign instead of the double zero.
The second part of the MSISDN, the Mobile Country Code MCC, provides the
code for the relevant country. The MCC consists of two digits and does not have
to be entered when making national calls.
The third part of the number is the Network Destination Code NDC. It identifies
the appropriate national network operator. The Mobile Subscriber Identification
Number MSIN forms the fourth part of the MSISDN. The first three digits of this
number determine the logical HLR where the GSM customer is stored and which
is used to locate him/her. The remaining digits identify the individual subscriber,
with different services like speech, fax and data services requiring differing
MSINs.
To identify a GSM subscriber in a mobile network, each subscriber has his own
International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI). The IMSI is of a standard length
of 15 digits and is composed of the following elements:
MSISDN and IMSI are stored as permanent database entries in the Home
Location Register (HLR) of the customer's home network. The HLR also contains
information on the services for which the customer is registered. These are static
entries. In addition, a database field is reserved for the current VLR address. This
entry is dynamic, and is updated depending on the Location Area where the
subscriber is. In this way, the HLR always knows the current location of the
subscriber, and thus enables the routing of calls to the relevant MSC.
MSRN is generated within the serving MSC/VLR, that is where the mobile station
just happens to be at that moment. In order for a called subscriber to be
identifiable, the MSRN is linked to the International Mobile Subscriber Identity
(IMSI). In the event of an incoming call, the MSRN is transmitted via the HLR to
the Gateway MSC (GMSC) to inform it where the call has finally to be routed.
The MSRN has the same structure as the MSISDN. It consists of the Country
Code (CC), the National Destination Code (NDC), and a Subscriber Number
(SN) that is different to the SN in the MSISDN. While the MSISDN only
establishes a connection to the HLR, the MSRN is used to route the call to its
actual destination.
If a mobile subscriber, while making a call, moves from one MSC area to another
that is covered by a different VLR/MSC, an Inter-MSC-Handover is required, that
is the transfer of the call from a currently serving MSC, or the Anchor MSC, to the
new MSC, the Target MSC.
The Anchor MSC stays responsible for all call control activities, so it has to know
where to route the call. To support this, the Target MSC generates the Handover
Number HON, and sends it to the Anchor MSC. Using this number, it can now
create a connection to the Target MSC.
Like the Roaming Number, it is made up of the Country Code CC, the National
Destination Code NDC and a Subscriber Number SN (which is also different from
that of the MSISDN).
The Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI) and the Location Area Identity
(LAI) are required for the Location Update of a mobile station. The TMSI is
generated in the VLR of the relevant hosting network after the first Location
Update, and then linked to the IMSI.
From then on, the IMSI is no longer transmitted for data security reasons.
Instead, the TMSI is transmitted via the air interface. This is the temporary
identity of the mobile radio user. It is assigned for the mobile's presence within
the Location Area.
The Location Area Identity (LAI) is a unique number worldwide. The net sends it
via the control channels of the air interface to the mobile station so the mobile
station recognizes its current position and can store it on the SIM card.
In the Equipment Identity Register (EIR), the same number is stored to check
number compliance. This equipment check is optional in GSM, and not every
network operator offers this service. The IMEI contains a check code (the Type
Approval Code), a terminal number (the Final Assembly Code), and the serial
number of the mobile station.
6.1.8 Cell Global Identity (CGI)
The Cell Global Identity (CGI) is a number code used to identify each cell within a
Location Area of a GSM network.
The CGI consists of the relevant Mobile Country Code (MCC) of a country, the
Mobile Network Code (MNC) for a relevant network, the Location Area Code
(LAC) of a Location Area, and the Cell Identity (CI), which indicates the relevant
cell within this Location Area. Using this code, the traffic data relevant to a cell,
for example, can be evaluated statistically in the Network Management Center
(NMC).
This identity is the Base Station Identity Code (BSIC). It is broadcast by every
BTS, and compared with the appropriate entry on the SIM card of the subscriber.
Only after verification that the broadcast BSIC is identical with the entry on the
SIM card can a mobile station be registered on the network.
Furthermore, the BSIC has to make a distinction between the serving cell and
those other cells that use the same frequency as the serving cell. It consists of
the Network Color Code (NCC) and the Base Station Color Code (BCC).
6.2 Procedures
6.2.1 Registration of the Mobile Station on the Network
In order for a user to be able to use a mobile station, it must be registered on the
network. After a subscriber has switched on his mobile phone, he first enters his
PIN. The PIN is stored on the SIM card. This step will not access the network.
The mobile station only begins communications with the network after successful
PIN query. "Network search" appears on the display of the mobile station. To
select the radio cell, the mobile station measures all Broadcast Control Channels
that have been sent on all frequencies from all network operators.
Then, a suitable network PLMN that is authorized for the subscriber is selected.
In the home country, this at first is only the network of a subscriber's own network
operator, then the network of a contract partner. Now the mobile can select a
suitable cell from several possible cells. After a successful Location Update, the
mobile station is in Idle Mode. Let's have a closer look at the Location Update
procedure.
6.2.2 Location Update and Authentication
This means the mobile network must always know the subscriber's current
location so it can put through calls. By ''subscriber's current location'' we
understand in this context the appropriate Location Area, that is the area
controlled by a certain VLR. A VLR controls at least one Location Area.
and
• At regular intervals after a mobile customer has not moved his/her mobile
station for some time.
The mobile station sends, via the BSS and the appropriate serving MSC, a
Location Update Request to the controlling VLR.
This then requests the subscriber ID stored on the SIM card of the mobile station,
which is sent immediately to the VLR. Now the VLR can request the
authentication data, also called the authentication triplet, from the subscriber's
HLR/AUC. After receiving the reply from the HLR, the VLR sends the
authentication data to the mobile station.
After successful authentication, the Location Update, in the form of the VLR
address, can be sent to the HLR of the subscriber as the current location.
Let's have a closer look at the authentication process. A new serving VLR
requests authentication from the SIM card used. This request is forwarded to the
Authentication Center (AUC) of the home network, which will provide the VLR
with an "Authentication Triplet".
The triplet consists of a random number (RAND), a Signed Response (SRES),
and a key (Kc). SRES is the calculation result of the algorithm A3 combining the
individual key Ki stored in the AUC and the random number RAND. Kc is
generated in the same way by the algorithm A8 using RAND. Several of these
triplets produced this way are transmitted to the enquiring VLR.
The VLR first stores both parameters from the triplet Kc and SRES for later use,
and only transmits the random number RAND to the mobile station. Using this
number and the information stored on the SIM card - that is the algorithms A3
and A8, and the key Ki, the mobile station can produce the same parameters as
the AUC, namely SRES and Kc. For authentication, the mobile station sends the
SRES it has produced back to the VLR. The key Kc is used later for channel
encoding.
Now the VLR can compare both SRES numbers: one from the mobile station,
and one produced by the AUC. If both parameters tally, authentication was
successful. Finally, the TMSI is transmitted in encoded form.
1. A PSTN customer dials the number of a mobile phone. The number dialed
is the MSISDN.
2. The exchange of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)
analyses this number and contacts the Gateway Mobile Services
Switching Center (GMSC), that is the link between the PSTN and the
mobile network.
3. The GMSC does not know the current location of the called subscriber,
and therefore starts an appropriate inquiry to the HLR of the called
subscriber.
4. The HLR checks its database entries to find the current location or the
currently serving MSC/VLR of the called subscriber.
5. Now the HLR asks the serving MSC/VLR for the routing information
necessary for the call connection.
6. The serving VLR now generates the temporary Mobile Subscriber
Roaming Number (MSRN) and sends it via the HLR to the GMSC.
7. The GMSC now has the routing information it needs, and transmits the
call onwards to the serving MSC.
8. The VLR makes the LAI available to the called subscriber
9. To locate the called subscriber, the MSC initiates a Paging Process within
the Location Area.
Within the relevant Location Area, the TMSI of the called mobile station is
broadcast on the air interface via the Paging Channel (PCH). However, as the
TMSI is clearly allocated within the VLR area, and thus also within the Location
Area, only the called mobile station can identify the Paging Channel, and react
accordingly.
The called mobile station reacts to the Paging Channel with a request to the
network for a free channel. This request is sent via the Random Access Channel
(RACH) in an uplink to the BSS. This allocates, through the Access Grant
Channel (AGCH), a Stand-alone Dedicated Control Channel (SDCCH) to the
mobile station.
This communicates with the BSS via the SDCCH, which exists both in the uplink
and the downlink, until a traffic channel is allocated to the mobile station.
Parameters for authentication and encoding, as well as the new TMSI, are
transmitted via the SDCCH to the mobile station.
If this is concluded successfully, the actual call set-up is initiated. For this
purpose, a voice link is established between the mobile station and the BSS, by
allocating a traffic channel on the air interface. Let's have a more detailed look at
the various steps of call set-up.
1. First, the mobile station is informed that an incoming call requires a call set-up.
This set-up message is sent to the mobile station via the SDCCH
2. The mobile station confirms this set-up inquiry in the uplink via the same
channel.
3. Now the MSC selects a terrestrial channel of the A interface, also called a
trunk, for the transmission to the BSS. It sends a message, an Assignment
Request Message, to the BSS, asking it to allocate a free resource on the air
interface. This message contains information on the trunk used, so later on the
data stream functions perfectly.
5. The mobile now takes over the allocated traffic channel and transmits the
confirmation of the allocation to the BSS via the FACCH. Now, the
subscriber is informed for the first time by the Man Machine Interface
(MMI) of the incoming call, in other words: the telephone rings. The BSS
transmits a final confirmation message to the MSC, about the successful
allocation of the air and terrestrial resources.
Speech and signalling data are not transmitted in their original state on the air
interface, but are encoded. Only after successful authentication can the BTS and
the mobile station start the encoding process.
The 114-bit key used for encoding and decoding at both ends of the air
transmission is produced at the BTS and at the mobile station using the encoding
algorithm A5. For this purpose, A5 uses the 64-bit key Kc that was generated
during the authentication process, and a 22-bit TDMA frame number in order to
encode and decode speech and signalling data.
and
If the call is addressed to the same mobile network, the MSC turns to the
relevant HLR via the dialed MSISDN to send the call to its destination. If the call
is to the PSTN or to a different PLMN, it is routed there via the Gateway MSC
(GMSC) and sent on to the target subscriber.
This now checks in the connected VLR whether the subscriber is authorized for
the desired service. If the VLR sends back a positive reply, the call set-up can be
carried out, and a traffic channel can be allocated to the connection. The serving
MSC sends the call via the relevant GMSC to the exchange of the PSTN. If a
confirmation of successful call set-up is sent from there, the caller is informed by
his MSC, and he hears the calling signal on his telephone. The conversation can
start.
6.2.5 Handover
2. A handover due to high traffic volume within the cell occurs when the capacity
of the cell is exhausted and the call is transferred into a neighboring cell which is
less busy.
A distinction is made between various handover types. We'll look at them in more
detail in the following lessons.
The smallest of all handover types is the handover within a cell, the Intra cell -
Intra BSC handover. In this case, a subscriber is diverted to a different traffic
channel within the same cell. Generally, this channel is generated with a different
frequency or time slot. The decision about the handover is made by the BSC that
controls the cell.
6.2.7 Inter Cell - Intra BSC Handover
The Inter cell - Intra BSC handover takes place when a mobile user moves from
one cell into a neighboring cell, both controlled by the same BSC. The traffic
connection to the old cell is discontinued as soon as the connection set-up to the
new cell is successfully completed. This process is controlled by the BSC.
We refer to an Inter Cell - Inter BSC handover when a mobile user moves from
one cell to a neighboring cell that is controlled by a different BSC, with both
BSCs being supervised by the same MSC.
This type of handover is carried out by the operating MSC, but the decision about
the handover is made by the old BSC. The connection to the old BSC area is
only interrupted when the new connection has been successfully established.
If a mobile phone user changes over to a new cell operated by a different MSC,
we refer to an inter MSC handover. This is a bit more complicated: Based on the
signal measuring results supplied by the mobile station, the old BSS can detect
the need for a handover to a neighboring cell.
The old BSS informs the MSC that is still serving of the required handover. This
MSC is also called the Anchor MSC. Next, the Anchor MSC requests the
Handover Number (HON), from the new MSC, or Target MSC. After receiving
this request, the Target MSC asks the new BSS to provide free resources at the
air interface.
When terrestrial and air resources have been re-allocated, the Target MSC can
make the required HON available to the Anchor MSC. With this number, the
Anchor MSC can establish a connection to the Target MSC.
The Anchor MSC now sends the handover command to the mobile station via the
old BSS. When the handover is successful, the mobile station sends an
appropriate success message to the new BSS, which passes the message on to
the Target MSC.
The Target MSC informs the Anchor MSC via the current connection that the old
connection to the mobile station can now be interrupted. The Anchor MSC re-
releases the channel allocation by notifying the old BSS.