A REPORT

ON

INNOVATIONS AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES IN TELECOMMUNICATION

BY

Pranav Triguna 2008B2A3553G

Ruchir Jain 2008B3A7630P

Sonia Goyal 2008A7PS088P

Ishan Mishra 2008A3PS111P

AT

TATA TELESERVICES LIMITED

Old Ishwar Nagar

New Delhi

A Practice School – I station of

BIRLA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE, PILANI

(JULY, 2010)
 A REPORT

ON

INNOVATIONS AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES IN TELECOMMUNICATION

BY

Pranav Triguna 2008B2A3553G M.Sc.(Hons.)Chemistry

B.E.(Hons.)E.E.E.

Ruchir Jain 2008B3A7630P M.Sc.(Hons.)Economics

B.E.(Hons). Computer Sc.

Sonia Goyal 2008A7PS088P B.E.(Hons.) Computer Sc.

Ishan Mishra 2008A3PS111P B.E.(Hons.) E.E.E.

Prepared in partial fulfillment of the

Practice School-I Course

AT

TATA TELESERVICES LIMITED

Old Ishwar Nagar

New Delhi

A Practice School – I station of

BIRLA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE, PILANI

(JULY, 2010)
 BIRLA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE

PILANI (RAJASTHAN)

Practice School Division

Station: Tata Teleservices Centre: Old Ishwar Nagar,New Delhi

Duration: 24th May-16th July Date of Start: 24th May

Date of Submission: 14th July 2010

Title: Innovations and Advanced Technologies in Telecommunication

Name/ID No./Discipline:

Sonia Goyal 2008A7PS088P B.E. (Hons) Computer Sc.

Pranav Triguna 2008B2A3PS553G M.Sc. (Hons) Chemistry &

B.E. (Hons) E.E.E.

Ishan Mishra 2008A3PS111P BE (Hons) E.E.E.

Ruchir Jain 2008B3A7PS630P M.Sc. (Hons) Economics &

B.E. (Hons) Computer Sc.

Name(s) and Designation of the expert(s): Mr. Amit Yadav

Name of the PS Faculty: Dr. Amit Setia

Abstract:

This report talks about services provided by TTSL and the technology it uses in them like the
TATA photon plus, TATA Walky, TATA indicom, TATA Docomo and The Virgin mobile and
about some of the advanced telecommunication technologies which are being used today and are
an integral part of TTSL’s network infrastructure like the 3G Technology, Wireband CDMA,
MNP.it also gives details of various Key Performance Indicators relevant in telecom industry.

Signature(s) of Student(s) Signature of PS Faculty

Date: Date
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgement

1. Introduction 1

2. Tatateleservices 2

2.1Introduction 3

2.2Board of Directors 4

2.3Go Green Campaign 4

2.4 Products offered 5

3. Advanced technologies in telecom 11

3.13G Technology 11

3.2 W-CDMA : Wideband CDMA 13

4. Cellular Digital Packet Data 15

4.1Introduction 15

4.2 What is CDPD ? 16

4.3Working of CDPD 17

4.4 Interfaces and Components of CDPD 18

4.5 What makes CDPD reliable? 21

4.6 Advantages and Disadvantages of CDPD 23

4.7The future of CDPD 24

5. Mobile Number Portability (MNP) 26

5.1 What is Mobile Number Portability (MNP) 26

5.2 History 26
 5.3 Definitions 27

5.4 Implementation 27

5.5 Why port your number? 28

5.6 Requirements of MNP 28

5.7 Who manages the ported data? 29

6. Performance measurement 45

6.1 Need of Performance measurement 45

6.2 Key Performance Indicators 46

6.3 KPIs in Telecom Industry 46

6.4 Network KPIs 48

6.5 M2000 51

7. Conclusion 53

Appendix 54

References 58

Glossary 58
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to TATA TELESERVICES

LIMITED for equipping us with the platform to enhance our skills in the field of
mobile communication. The whole team was very accommodating and cooperative
and without their help and assistance this project could not have been
accomplished.

We express our thanks to our instructor Dr. Amit Setia for giving us invaluable
guidance and moral support.
Last but not the least we are most thankful to our institute , BITS PILANI for
providing us this opportunity and platform to explore our horizons in the practical
field and gain professionalism and etiquettes along with technical abilities in the
corporate culture.

1 : INTRODUCTION

Communication has been one of the most important aspect of the growth of human society and
culture. Telecommunication refers to the transmission of messages , over a significant distance
for the purpose of communication. It has evolved a long way since the time people used visual
signals such as smoke, flags or drums to convey messages. In todays age telecommunication is
mainly through electrical, radio and electronic channels like television, phone , internet etc.

Telecommunication is very important. It can be called the lifeline of an economy and is crucial
to any business , production process or market. It helps integrate the society and essential for
globalization and world stability.

Tata tele services or better known as TTSL spearheads the TATA group’s presence in the
telecom sector in India.

TTSL has been a pioneer in some of the most cutting edge technology in the telecom sector in
India.
Our final report we have included the latest services provided by TTSL and the technology it
uses in them like the TATA photon plus, TATA Walky, TATA indicom, TATA Docomo and
The Virgin mobile.

We have also written about some of the advanced telecommunication technologies which are
being used today and are an integral part of TTSL’s network infrastructure like the 3G
Technology, Wireband CDMA, MNP and the Cellular digital packet data.

The report also gives an overview of the Key Performance Indicators relevant in the field of
telecommunication. It gives details of critical KPIs like Call Drop, Call Setup Success Rate. Etc.
It also mentions the M2000 software used for the same purpose.

We have also included the famous “Go green ” campaign. TTSL has has been a part of this in
collaboration with Attero Recycling company.

The information and knowledge required for the report was gained through our PS-I program at
the Tata teleservices limited in New Delhi. Data was also collected through the internet and
various books written on the subject.

2. TATATELESERVICES

2.1 : INTRODUCTION

Tata Teleservices Limited spearheads the Tata Group’s presence in the telecom sector. The Tata
Group had revenues of around USD 70.8 billion in Financial Year 2008-09, and includes over 90
companies, over 363,039 employees worldwide and more than 3.5 million shareholders.
Incorporated in 1996, Tata Teleservices is the pioneer of the CDMA 1x technology platform in
India. It has embarked on a growth path since the acquisition of Hughes Tele.com (India) Ltd
[renamed Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited by the Tata Group in 2002. It launched
mobile operations in January 2005 under the brand name Tata Indicom and today enjoys a pan-
India presence through existing operations in all of India’s 22 telecom Circles. The company is
also the market leader in the fixed wireless telephony market. The company’s network has been
rated as the ‘Least Congested’ in India for five consecutive quarters by the Telecom Regulatory
Authority of India through independent surveys.
Tata Teleservices Limited now also has a presence in the GSM space, through its joint venture
with NTT DOCOMO of Japan, and offers differentiated products and services under the TATA
DOCOMO brand name. TATA DOCOMO arises out of the Tata Group’s strategic alliance with
Japanese telecom major NTT DOCOMO in November 2008. TATA DOCOMO has received a
pan-India license to operate GSM telecom services—and has also been allotted spectrum in 18
telecom Circles. The company has rolled out GSM services in 17 of India’s 22 telecom Circles in
the quick span of less than a year. The company plans to launch pan-India operations by the end
of FY 2010-11.
TATA DOCOMO marks a significant milestone in the Indian telecom landscape, and has already
redefined the very face of telecom in India, being the first to pioneer the per-second tariff option
—part of its ‘Pay for What You Use’ pricing paradigm. Tokyo-based NTT DOCOMO is one of
the world’s leading mobile operators—in the Japanese market, the company is the clear market
leader, used by over 50 per cent of the country’s mobile phone users.
Tata Teleservices operates under five different brands— Tata Indicom (CDMA services), Tata
DOCOMO (GSM services),Virgin Mobile, Tata Walky (which is the brand for fixed wireless
phones), Tata Photon (the company’s brand that provides a variety of options for wireless
mobile broadband access) and T24. TTSL recently entered into a strategic partnership agreement
with Indian retail giant Future Group to offer mobile telephony services under a new brand name
—T24—on the GSM platform. The exciting new brand was unveiled in February and it has
commenced the GSM operations under the brand name T24 in Andhra Pradesh and will roll out
services in other circles shortly.
Today, Tata Teleservices Ltd, along with Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Ltd, serves nearly 70
million customers in more than 450,000 towns and villages across the country, with a bouquet of
telephony services encompassing Mobile Services, Wireless Desktop Phones, Public Booth
Telephony and Wireline Services.
In December 2008, Tata Teleservices announced a unique reverse equity swap strategic
agreement between its telecom tower subsidiary, Wireless TT Info-Services Limited, and Quippo
Telecom Infrastructure Limited—with the combined entity kicking off operations with 18,000
towers, thereby becoming the largest independent entity in this space—and with the highest
tenancy ratios in the industry. Today, the combined entity has a portfolio of nearly 35,000
towers.
TTSL’s bouquet of telephony services includes mobile services, wireless desktop phones, public
booth telephony, wireline services and enterprise solutions.
Over the last few months, Tata Teleservices’ industry-best and innovative offerings have gained
industry-wide recognition and the Year 2010 saw TTSL add many notable accolades to its name.
TTSL was named The Best Emerging Markets Carrier by Telecom Asia, and received 8 awards
at the World HRD Conference, including 5th Best Employer in India. The company also
received 3 awards at the Telecom Operator Awards 2010 from Tele.net; Best Company, CEO of
the Year and Best Quality of Service, and Business Standard award for ‘Most Innovative Brand
of the Year’.
2.2 : BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mr. Ratan N. Tata Mr. K. A. Chaukar

Designation : Chairman Designation : Managing Director
Company : Tata Teleservices Ltd. Company : Tata Industries Ltd.

Mr. Anil Kumar Sardana Mr. I. Hussain

Designation : Managing Director Designation : Director
Company : Tata Teleservices Limited Company :Tata Sons Ltd.

Mr. N. S. Ramachandran Mr. N. Srinath

Designation : Director, Designation : CEO & MD
Company : Tata Teleservices Ltd. Company : Tata Communications Ltd.

Mr. AnujMaheshwari MrToshinariKunieda

Designation : Director Designation : Senior Vice President
 Managing Director Global Business
Company : Temasek Holdings Advisors Division
India Pvt Ltd., ("THAIPL") Company : NTT Docomo, INC.

Mr. Kiyoshi Tokuhiro

Mr. Kazuto Tsubouchi
Designation : Senior Vice President
Designation : Executive Vice President
Managing Director of Network
Chief Financial Officer
Department
Company : NTT Docomo, INC.
Company : NTT Docomo, INC.

2.3 : GO GREEN CAMPAIGN

Tata Teleservices Limited (TTSL) has become one of the few Companies in the country that has
a streamlined and effective process for recycling of e-waste.

As a responsible Tata Group company, TTSL is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and
recognizes that being a Telecom service provider, it indirectly responsible for generating some
quantities of e-waste; both on account of building business (i.e., increase in the number of cell
phone users) as well as conducting business operations (computers, peripherals etc). In order to
minimize the adverse impact of our overall business operations on environment, we have tied up
with Attero Recycling, the first e-waste recycler in India, authorized by Ministry of Environment
and Forests, Government of India; to responsibly dispose e-waste Shredder & Fe Separator
generated by the Company and as a by-product of the services we deliver.

In order to mobilize responsible e-waste disposal, it isplacing boxes in all its offices and
selecting Company-owned branded retail stores where mobile phone users desirous of disposing
e-waste in a responsible manner can drop old mobiles, chargers, batteries etc. The Pilot phase of
this project has begun in AP and Delhi Circles as well as Corporate Office and it will soon be
rolling it out across Circles. As per TTSL’s agreement with Attero, the e-waste so collected will
be picked up by Attero periodically and sent to their plant in Roorkee in Uttrakhand for
recycling. Additionally, non-working computers, peripherals (that cannot be put into these
boxes) will be picked up from various locations and recycled. For this, respective Circles would
need to inform the Corporate Sustainability Team when they have e-waste that is required to be
collected for responsible disposal.
Attero Recycling Pvt. Ltd. is an approved e-Waste Recycler by the Central Pollution Control
Board (CPCB) under 4, 19(2) and 19(6) of the Hazardous Waste Management & Handling
Rules, 1989 as amended in 2008 and is operating a facility for collection, reception,
transportation, treatment and disposal of e-Waste. Through this pioneering initiative Tata
Teleservices Limited and Attero Recycling will together strive towards a greener world and a
healthy and safe environment.
It would be worth mentioning that TTSL is among the few companies in the country to have
implemented be the first Corporate to take this kind of initiative.

Fig 2.1 : The recycling process followed by Attero at their state-of-the-art plant

2.4 : PRODUCTS OFFERED

2.4.1 : TATA PHOTON

Fig 2.2 : Tata Photon Plus instrument

Tata Indicom introduces its High-Speed Internet Access called Tata Photon plus, which is a new
Broadband wireless service for the business users and technology enthusiasts across India. Tata
Photon is basically an improved name of Evolution Data Optimized (EVDO). At present this
service is available in the limited cities and in addition to this it is reliant on the service signals of
Proton+ whether or not are accessible in your region. Tata Photon is Tata Indicom’s Wireless
Broadband facility, which offers great Internet wireless connectivity solutions.
  Features of Tata Photon+

• It is very convenient to handle.

• Quick installation and activation is possible.
• It supports Win Vista, Win XP and Win 2000.
• It is compatible with Laptop and Desktop PC.
• It is to the most 20-times, faster than the prevailing wireless technology.
• It offers a downlink speed of 3.1 MBPS, depending upon the day time and network
strength. Also it offers an average-speed of 300 to 700 KBPS.

This Tata Photon service can be easily available though Wireless Router and USB Modem. This
service is not at all expensive, since it provides you with wireless freedom. The basic plan of
Tata Photon commences with 0.5 GB download limit at Rs. 500 per month. You can also access
the services of Tata Photon by making use of USB modems which will at first cost you around
Rs. 3500.

USB modem is the most appropriate choice for the Laptop or Home PC users. All you are
required to do is to plug in the USB Modem into the Laptop and now you can easily access the
high-speed Internet connectivity. The wireless router would be best suited for the small
organizations where the access of Internet on several computers is simultaneously required.
Wireless router is very quick and easy to install, since it does not need any wire. In order to use
the wireless router, you would simply have to install the device into your home or office.

 Services of Tata Photon

• Easy to maintain.
• Surf Intranet or Internet with high and consistent speed.
• Send or receive SMS along with voice capabilities.
• Stay connected transversely the network of Tata Indicom.

This new invention by Tata Indicom enables an individual to experience the high-speed Internet
facility from everywhere. Tata Photon Services are available in around 35 cities like Delhi,
Mumbai, Ahmadabad, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad are few among others.

Now Tata Photon plus is available for mobile phones too. Using it one can watch Live TV,
check mails, do social networking on your mobile phones, while enjoying high data transfer
rates.

Easy recharge vouchers are available at TTSL outlets, which can be used to recharge the prepaid
device and use it again.

2.4.2 : TATA WALKY

 Fig 2.3 : Tata Walky Instrument

Tata Indicom, India’s premier telecom service provider launched the new, sleek, high tech and
feature rich ‘New Smarter Walky ’ for its customers across 20 circles. With this latest pioneering
achievement, Tata Indicom continues to be the largest and the first wireless service provider with
over 2 million fixed wireless customers.

The ‘New Smarter Walky’ was launched by the brand ambassador Sania Mirza. The ‘New
Smarter Walky’ has been introduced in India for the first time and will be available exclusively
to Tata Indicom, the world’s largest fixed wireless service provider with over 2 million
customers.

 Features of the ‘ New Smarter Walky’ :

• Wide, graphic, backlit display

• Messaging in Hindi, predictive text messaging (Hindi & English)
• Stores 500 contacts
• Saves 2,000 numbers
• Polyphonic ringtones
• In-built games
• Internet connectivity

The ‘New Smarter Walky’ combines a sleek design and contemporary looks with wide view and
graphic display, Hindi user interface, in-built games, group messaging, 500 contact phone book,
saves 2,000 numbers, organiser, and polyphonic ringtones. The phone can be placed on a flat
surface and can also be wall mounted. Today, Tata Indicom customers have a variety of
instruments and colours to choose from.

Market research shows that, Tata Indicom added over a million new ‘Walky’ fixed wireless
customers during the record period of 7 months. Tata Indicom sells 10,000 ‘Walky’ fixed
wireless service per day across 9,000 retail outlets. According to the latest ABTO figures, Tata
Indicom added more than twice the number of fixed wireless customers as compared to their
nearest competitor. These figures clearly depicts that Tata Indicom is the dominant and
consistent leader in the fixed wireless category.

A feature-rich fixed telephony product, ‘Walky’ — fixed wireless service, has immense potential
in India. With the launch of ‘Walky’ — fixed wireless service, Tata Indicom is looking at
catering to different segments by offering a host of value-added benefits like voice mail, Fundoo
calling, SMS and CLIP. Tata Indicom is targeting the emerging markets as well as the
replacement market to further increase their leadership position.

Tata Indicom was the first to launch CDMA-based fixed wireless service in the country. As the
service operates on Tata Indicom CDMA wireless platform, it offers several advantages over the
landline, as it does not require any physical wiring for last mile connectivity. Hence customers
can expect instant connections (as it eliminates the need for cables to be laid), the ability to retain
the same phone number within the city for customers who shift residence/office, better security
and all weather proof (unaffected by rains / harsh climatic conditions) service.

Around the globe, manufacturers had considered fixed wireless service as a dead product. But
after the success of Tata Indicom fixed wireless service in India, today international vendors are
investing money and are taking interest in research and development (R&D) on fixed wireless
service.

2.4.3 : TATA INDICOM

Fig 2.3 : Tata Indicom Logo

Tata Indicom offers you a range of products and services to suit your needs so you are always
connected. Mobile, Wireless Phones, Fixed Phones, Internet & Broadband, Net Telephony,
Calling cards. With the latest initiative, Tata Indicom has opened up new frontiers for Indian pre-
paid customers by offering 1-second pulse, 100 per cent talktime and one rate for local and STD
calls on True Paid. The company offers integrated telecom solutions to its customers under the
Tata Indicom brand, and uses the latest CDMA 3G1X technology for its wireless network.
Currently operating in eight circles i.e. Andhra Pradesh, Chennai, Gujarat, Karnataka, New
Delhi, Maharashtra, Mumbai and Tamil Nadu, the company has a customer base of over two
million.

Tata indicom provides these services :-

i)Post paid mobile services

ii)Prepaid mobile services

iii)Tata indicom broadband 2.0

Tata Indicom Wi-Fi network offers connectivity at more than 500 hotspots in India across major
hotels, airports, educational institutes and cafes. Tata Indicom Wi-Fi not only gives you access to
a super fast Internet Connection but also more than 150 Value Added Services like Global
Roaming, Net Telephony, Entertainment, Educational and Business services and much more.

Apart from having the largest number of Wi-Fi hotspots (over 500) in the country, it also has the
distinction of being the only member of the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) from India. As
an industry leader, it is one of the first service providers in India. It serves in

- Major airports
- Hotels
- Cafes
- Hospitals
- Stadiums
- Educational Institutes
- Mobile showrooms
- Railway stations & more…

2.4.4 : TATA DOCOMO

Fig 2.4 : Tata Docomo Symbol

TATA DOCOMO is a Tata Teleservices Limited's (TTSL) cellular service provider on

the GSM platform-arising out of the Tata Group's strategic joint venture with Japanese telecom
giant NTT Docomo in November 2008. Tata Teleservices has received a pan-India license to
operate GSM telecom services, under the brand "TATA DOCOMO" and has also been allotted
spectrum in 18 telecom Circles. TTSL has already rolled out its services in various circles.
It offers both prepaid and postpaid GSM cellular phone with presence in 11 circles
including Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh, Orissa ,Maharashtra & Goa, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar
Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Chennai, and West Bengal. It has become very popular
with its one second pulse especially in semi-urban and rural areas. They are launching their
service from the south of India to central, east and north.

NTT DoCoMo holds 26 % stake in the jointly formed company. It has also emerged as the first
mobile operator in India to have re-introduced ‘per second’ pulse, after Loop Mobile (formerly
BPL Mobile) discontinued their 'pay per second' service which was introduced in 2004.

2.4.5 : VIRGIN MOBILE

Fig 2.5 : Virgin Mobile logo

Virgin Mobile India Limited is a cellular telephone service provider company which is a joint
venture between Tata Teleservices and Richard Branson's Virgin Group. Currently, the company
uses Tata's CDMA network to offer its services under the brand name Virgin Mobile, and it has
also started GSM services in some states.

Virgin mobile offers both CDMA as well as GSM services and has collaborated with TTSL to
tap the youth market of India.

3 : ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES IN TELECOM

3.1 : 3G TECNOLOGY

International Mobile Telecommunications-2000 (IMT-2000), better known as 3G or 3rd

Generation, is a family of standards for mobile telecommunications fulfilling specifications by
the International Telecommunication Union, which includes UMTS, and CDMA2000 as well as
the non-mobile wireless standards DECT and WiMAX. While the GSM EDGE standard also
fulfils the IMT-2000 specification, EDGE phones are typically not branded 3G. Services include
wide-area wireless voice telephone, video calls, and wireless data, all in a mobile environment.
Compared to 2G and 2.5G services, 3G allows simultaneous use of speech and data services and
higher data rates (at least 200 kbit/s peak bit rate to fulfill to IMT-2000 specification). Today's
3G systems can in practice offer up to 14.0 Mbit/s (1.75 MB/s) on the downlink and 5.8 Mbit/s
(0.725 MB/s) on the uplink.

The first pre-commercial 3G network was launched by NTT DoCoMo in Japan branded FOMA,
in May 2001 on a pre-release of W-CDMA technology. The first commercial launch of 3G was
also by NTT DoCoMo in Japan on 1 October 2001, although it was initially somewhat limited in
scope; broader availability was delayed by apparent concerns over reliability. The second
network to go commercially live was by SK Telecom in South Korea on the 1xEV-
DO technology in January 2002. By May 2002 the second South Korean 3G network was
by KTon EV-DO and thus the Koreans were the first to see competition among 3G operators.

The first European pre-commercial network was at the Isle of Man by Manx Telecom, the
operator then owned by British Telecom, and the first commercial network in Europe was
opened for business by Telenor in December 2001 with no commercial handsets and thus no
paying customers. These were both on the W-CDMA technology.

In 2008, India entered into 3G Mobile arena with the launch of 3G enabled Mobile and Data
services by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) in Bihar(Patna). BSNL is the first Mobile
operator in India to launch 3G services. After that (MTNL) launched 3G in Mumbai & Delhi.
Government owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) has already been provided with a 3G
license and has been operating its services in 380 cities by the end of March 2010. Nation
wide auction of 3G wireless spectrum in April 2010 was announced. The Auction was a great
success for Government Of India, as it collected triple the amount it was expecting. The
estimation for both 3G and BWA was around Rs 35,000/- Crore ($7.6 billion). Total revenue the
Government collected was nearly Rs 1,06,000Crore ($23 billion).[17] Private providers are
expected to provide its 3G service from September 2010

There are about 60 3G networks across 25 countries . In Asia, Europe and the USA, telecom
firms use WCDMA technology. The WCDMA standard provides seamless global evolution from
today's GSM with support of the worlds' largest mobile operators.

WCDMA technology is built on open standards, wide ranging mobile multimedia possibility,
and vast potential economies of scale with the support of around 100 terminal designs to operate
3G mobile networks.

3.1.1 : APPLICATION OF 3G

The bandwidth and location information available to 3G devices gives rise to applications not
previously available to mobile phone users. Some of the applications are:
  Mobile TV – a provider redirects a TV channel directly to the subscriber's phone where it
can be watched.
 Video on demand – a provider sends a movie to the subscriber's phone.
 Video conferencing – subscribers can see as well as talk to each other.
 Tele-medicine – a medical provider monitors or provides advice to the potentially
isolated subscriber.
 Location-based services – a provider sends localized weather or traffic conditions to the
phone, or the phone allows the subscriber to find nearby businesses or friends.

3.1.2 : 3G AND TTSL

Auction for 3G spectrum license ended on 18th May 2010, with bids for India wide license
touching Rs. 16,751 crore that guarantee the Indian Govt gets revenue of Rs 67,719 crore

There was no single bidder to bid 3G spectrum auction for an India wide liscence and Delhi
materialize the most precious telecom circle at Rs 3,317 crore, go behind by Mumbai at Rs 3,247
crore.

Among the majorIndian bidders were Idea cellular, BhartiAirtel, Reliance cellular and TTSL.

TTSL although did not do a very intense bidding in the 3G spectrum auctions still it bagged the
following circles along with others :-

• Maharashtra Telecom Circle.

• Gujrat Telecom Circle

• Karnataka Telecom Circle

• Kerla Telecom Circle

• Punjab telecom Circle

• Haryana Telecom Circle

• MP Telecom Circle

• UP(West) Telecom Circle

• UP(East) Telecom Circle

Tata Teleservices announced its partnership with Olive Telecommunication, a division of
Chinese electronic company Haier to launch country's first 3G Netbook for high speed internet
access in broadband connectivity.

The Netbook, which is coming in the Indian markets with 10 models is powered by global
technology major Qualcomm chip-set, and is priced between Rs 5,000-40,000, Anil Sardana
Managing Director TTSL said.

The Netbook has 1.6 GHz processor, 1 GB memory and 160 GB hardisk storage. It can offer
"any where, any time" broadband connectivity to help user access advanced data application
while on the move, he said.

The Olive Netbook is powered by Tata's Photon Plus datacard that would herald a new era in
computing access, Sardana said.

3.2 : W- CDMA : Wideband CDMA

W-CDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), UMTS-FDD, UTRA-FDD, or IMT-

2000 CDMA Direct Spread is an air interface standard found in 3G mobile
telecommunications networks. It is the basis of Japan's NTT DoCoMo's FOMA service and the
most-commonly used member of the UMTS family and sometimes used as a synonym for
UMTS.[1] It utilizes the DS-CDMA channel access method and the FDD duplexing method to
achieve higher speeds and support more users compared to most time division multiple
access (TDMA) schemes used today.

While not an evolutionary upgrade on the airside, it uses the same core network as
the 2G GSM networks deployed worldwide, allowing dual-mode operation along with
GSM/EDGE; a feat it shares with other members of the UMTS family.
 Fig 3.1 : WCDMA network

 Technical Features :-

• Radio channels are 5 MHz wide.

• Chip rate of 3.84 Mcps
• Supported mode of duplex: frequency division (FDD)
• Employs coherent detection on both the uplink and downlink based on the use of pilot
symbols and channels.
• Supports inter-cell asynchronous operation.
• Variable mission on a 10 ms frame basis.
• Multicode transmission.
• Adaptive power control based on SIR (Signal-to-Interference Ratio).
• Multiuser detection and smart antennas can be used to increase capacity and coverage.
• Multiple types of handoff (or handover) between different cells including soft handoff,
softer handoff and hard handoff.
• 1:1 frequency reuse scheme

In WCDMA, there are two different modes of operation possible:

• TDD: In this duplex method, uplink and downlink transmissions are carried over the
same frequency band by using synchronized time intervals. Thus time slots in a physical
channel are divided into transmission and reception part.

• FDD: The uplink and downlink transmissions employ two separated frequency bands for
this duplex method. A pair of frequency bands with specified separation is assigned for a
connection. Since different regions have different frequency allocation schemes, the
capability to operate in either FDD or TDD mode allows for efficient utilization of the
available spectrum.
4 : CELLULAR DIGITAL PACKET DATA

4.1 : INTRODUCTION

Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) systems offer what is currently one of the most advanced
means of wireless data transmission technology. Generally used as a tool for business, CDPD
holds promises for improving law enforcement communications and operations. As technologies
improve, CDPD may represent a major step toward making our nation a wireless information
society. While CDPD technology is more complex than most of us care to understand, its
potential benefits are obvious even to technological novices.

In this so-called age of information, no one need to be reminded of speed but also accuracy in the
storage, retrieval and transmission of data. The CDPD network is a little one year old and already
is proving to be a hot digital enhancement to the existing phone network. CDPD transmits digital
packet data at 19.2 Kbps, using idle times between cellular voice calls on the cellular telephone
network.

CDPD technology represent a way for law enforcement agencies to improve how they manage
their communications and information systems. For over a decade, agencies around the world
have been experimenting with placing Mobile Data Terminals(MDT) in their vehicles to enhance
officer safety and efficiency.

Early MDT’s transmits their information using radio modems. In this case data could be lost in
transmission during bad weather or when mobile units are not properly located in relation to
transmission towers. More recently MDT’s have transmitted data using analog cellular telephone
modems. This shift represented an improvement in mobile data communications, but systems
still had flaws which limited their utility.

Since the mid-1990’s, computer manufacturers and the telecommunication industry have been
experimenting with the use of digital cellular telecommunications as a wireless means to transmit
data. The result of their effort is CDPD systems. These systems allow users to transmit data with
a higher degree of accuracy, few service interruptions, and strong security. In addition CDPD
technology represent a way for law enforcement agencies to improve how they manage their
communications and information systems. This results in the capacity for mobile users to enjoy
almost instantaneous access to information.
4.2 : WHAT IS CDPD ??

CDPD is a specification for supporting wireless access to the Internet and other public packet-
switched networks. Data transmitted on the CDPD systems travel several times faster than data
send using analog networks

Cellular telephones and modem providers that offer CDPD support make it possible for mobile
users to get access to the Internet at up to 19,2 Kbps.

CDPD also supports IP multicast (one-to-many) service. With multicast, a company can
periodically broadcast company updates to sales and service people on the road or a news
subscription service can transmit its issues as they are published. It will also support the next
level of IP, IPV6. With CDPD we are assigned our very own address. With this address, we are
virtually always connected to our host without having to keep a constant connection.

There are currently two methods for sending data over cellular networks: cellular digital packet
data (CDPD) and cellular switched-circuit data (CSCD). Each has distinct advantages depending
on the type of application, amount of data to send or receive, and geographic coverage needs.

Regardless of the method used, messages are broken up into discrete packets of data and
transmitted continuously over the network. Messages are then "reassembled" into the original
message at the receiving device. This technology supports roaming and is especially attractive
for multicast (e.g., one-to-many) service, allowing updates to be periodically broadcast to all
users. Users log on once per day to register on the network. Messages and transmissions
automatically locate them.

Major CDPD providers generally have roaming agreements to allow users to access the service
when outside their home coverage area. For the mobile users, CDPD’s support for packet
switching means that a persistent link isn’t needed. The same broadcast channel can be shared
among a number of users at the same time. The user’s recognizes the packets intended for it’s
user. As data such as e-mail arrives, it is forwarded immediately to the user without a circuit
connection having to be established. There is circuit switched version, called CS CDPD that can
be used where traffic is expected to be heavy enough to warrant a dedicated connection.

As a tool for transmitting data CDPD utilizes digital networks. Placing data, conversions,
photographs, and multimedia into digital form and transmitting the information through a
network with a large bandwidth permits more information to be sent more quickly with greater
clarity. Thus, data send using CDPD is received in a quick, secure, and accurate fashion. Data
send using CDPD systems is less likely to be lost between senders and receivers due to the
position of mobile units, weather conditions, or other anomalies.
CDPD is an overlay to the existing cellular network, which enables users to transmit packets of
data over the cellular network using a portable computing device and a CDPD modem. CDPD
offers a high-speed, high-capacity, low-cost system with the greatest possible coverage.
Additionally data is encrypted for security. CDPD air link transmissions have a 19,200 bps raw
data rate.

 Features

• 19.2 kbps raw data transfer rate

• Full duplex transceiver

• 600 mW transmit power

• Integrated TCP/IP protocol stack

• Proven technology

• Compact size

• Rugged aluminum case

• LEDs show status of CDPD operation

4.3 : WORKING OF CDPD

To effectively integrate voice and data traffic on the cellular system without degrading the level
of service provided to the voice customer, the CDPD network implements a technique called
channel hopping. The way this works is that when a CDPD mobile data unit desires to initiate
data transmission, it will check for availability of a cellular channel. Once an available channel is
located, the data link is established. As long as the assigned cellular channel is not needed for
voice communications, the mobile data unit can continue to transmit data packet bursts on it.
However, if a cellular voice customer initiates voice communication, it will take priority over the
data transmission. At such time, the mobile data unit will be advised by the Mobile Data Base
Station (which is the CDPD serving entity in the cell and constantly checks for potential voice
communication on the channel) to "hop" to another available channel. In the event that there are
no other available channels, then data transmission will be temporarily discontinued. It is
important to note that these channel hops are completely transparent to the mobile data user. As
far as the user can see, there is only one data stream being used to complete the entire
transmission.
CDPD and current cellular voice network are essentially two separate networks that happen to
share cellular airspace. During transmission across cellular telephone channels, there are
moments when the channel is idle. In fact, industry research indicates that over 30 percent of the
air time, even during heavy traffic times is unused. CDPD technology is able to detect and use
these otherwise wasted moments, by packaging data in small packets and sending it in short
“bursts” or chunks during the idle time. As a result, the cellular channel operates more efficiently
while remaining transparent to the cellular voice network. Thus voice and data transmissions are
unaffected. CDPD is based on the same communications protocol as the Internet; so mobile users
have access to the broadest range of information.

CDPD accomplishes this amazing feat by transmitting the data in small chunks or packets. Then
the chunks can be sent separately on whatever channel is available at the time of transmission.
Here is an analogy to help visualize this:

Instead of channels or lines we now have pipes. The pipes can be open in the traditional way.
Now no one can use the pipe while you have it open. You send your data down the pipe. Now
you wait for a response. Nothing is going through the pipe but still no one else can use it.
Majority of your data transmission using this method is idle time that some else could exploit.
CDPD is the new way. You have little bundles of data. You find a pipe that is available and you
open it. You send your data and shut the pipe again. If that pipe is available when you send more
data, you use it. If not, you find a new pipe. You get a response through which ever pipe is
unused when the host sends you the data. With CDPD you are assigned an IP address. This is
better than a phone number. This allows you to change channels or “pipes” and still send and
receive data as if you were directly connected to your host.

4.4 : INTERFACES AND COMPONENTS OF CDPD NETWORK

The CDPD network consists of three interfaces and five network components. They are as
follows:

4.4.1 : INTERFACES

1. A Interface: A Interface is the abbreviated form of Air Interface. It is the interface

between the mobile end station (M-ES) and the cell site equipment (MDBS). It consists
of a new media access and control (MAC) protocol unique to CDPD, IP protocols used
for routing, existing RF equipment and mobility management features such as RF
“sniffing” and the channel “hopping”. The Air Interface constitutes the space between
our antenna and the cell site tower.
 2. I Interface: I Interface is the abbreviated form of Intermediate system Interface. It is the
interface between routing functions within the network, or between the routing functions
on a network-to-network interface. It is the interface between the “off the shelf” routers.
It consists of off the shelf router equipment, such as Wellfleet, employing the IP or ISO
8473 profiles. Use of other profiles X.25 and Frame relay is considered to be optional.

3. E Interface: E Interface is the abbreviated form of External Interface. It is the interface

connecting a non-CDPD network with a CDPD network. It is typically a leased line
connecting a User’s fixed end system (F-ES) to a CDPD network provider.

4.4.2 : COMPONENTS

1. Mobile End System (M-ES): The M-ES can be any mobile computing device which has
a CDPD modem built –in or attached. It supports the MAC functionality required over
the A interface and IP protocols that are mandatory for addressing and mobility
management. The M-ES transmits data over the air link to the Mobile Data Base Station
(MDBS) located in the cell site. The M-ES is also concerned with radio resource
management such as discovering and keeping synchronization with RF data streams from
an MDBS. The M-ES should provide a transparent interface to the user’s applications.
The CDPD modem is a very good example for the M-ES.

2. Mobile Data Base Station (MDBS): MDBS is located at the cell site. It acts as a relay
station between M-ES and MD-IS systems. The MDBS relays packets of data to the MD-
IS (Mobile Data Intermediate System) located at the MTSO (Mobile Telephone
Switching Office). The MDBS is primarily responsible for radio frequency management;
such as making sure that M-ES does not transmit on a frequency that is currently being
used by the cellular voice, channel hopping, and aiding the M-ES to transfer from one
cell to another by assisting in the location of a new channel. It provides a hop-to-hop
control over the air interface. It controls the hop and RF segment between the M-ES and
the CDPD network. Each cellular geographic service area (CGSA) is controlled by
MBDS.

3. Mobile Data Intermediate System (MD-IS): The MD-IS keeps track of an M-ES’s
location and routes data packets to and from the CDPD Network and the M-ES
appropriately. In addition, the MD-IS is responsible for validating an M-ES on the
 network, and exchanging the encryption keys with the M-ES that allows for secure
transmission of data over the air link. It is responsible for IP routing. MD-ISs are the only
routers that are aware of mobility of the M-ESs. These devices support a CDPD specific
mobility network location protocol (MNLP) which allows the exchange of mobility
information. An MD-IS may serve single or multiple CGSAs (cells). MD-IS will also
determine where an M-ES is and routes between the F-ES and M-ES. An MD-IS can
provide “mobile home” and “mobile serving” functions.

4. Intermediate System (IS): The IS is a router and an off-the-shelf device. The IS routes
the data through the IP and the CLNP network. The Intermediate System is a standard IP
router with the primary responsibility of relaying data packets. It consists of the off-the-
shelf commercially available router equipment, such as manufactured by Wellfleet. Most
ISs are unaware of mobility. The IS components are the backbone of the CDPD mesh.

5. Fixed-End System (F-ES): The F-ES is whatever network environment/resource the

User is attempting to make available to mobile access via CDPD. The F-ES is the final
destination of the message sent from an M-ES. The Fixed-End System receives the data
and processes it appropriately. The F-ES can be one of many stationary-computing
devices, such as a host computer, a UNIX workstation, an online information service, or
another Mobile-End System. CDPD subscribers administrate external F-ES. The CDPD
operator such as Ameritech or US West administrates internal F-ES. The F-ES could be
the directory services database. It is important to realize that the F-ES is not required to
be aware of mobility issues in anyway whatsoever. As such, an F-ES should be able to
connect to a CDPD network with absolutely no modifications. This is probably be a
router connected to a token ring or other LAN.

6. Mobile Access Control (MAC): The MAC function used over the air interface is unique
to CDPD. It creates a bit stream by taking the bits within the MDLP frames and
“blocking” them into a format that incorporates a sophisticated forward Error Correction
scheme known as Reed/Solomon. The MAC defines a “back-off” procedure in the event
of suspected collisions with data streams from other M-ES.

4.5 : WHAT MAKES CDPD RELIABLE ?

4.5.1 : SOURCES OF ERROR

Machines do make errors, and their non-man-made mistakes can turn otherwise flawless
programming into worthless, even dangerous, trash. Just as architects design buildings that will
remain standing even through an earthquake, their computer counterparts have come up with
sophisticated techniques capable of counteracting the digital manifestations of Murphy's Law.

Digital information, by definition, consists of strings of "bits" -- 0's and 1's -- and a physical
device, no matter how capably manufactured, may occasionally confuse the two. The most
probable reason for this is the low powered transmission of data over long distances.

Mobile communications use radio signals which are subject to eavesdropping. The mobile
network is also vulnerable to other unwanted security breaches.

4.5.2 : WHAT HAS TO BE DONE TO MAKE A NETWORK RELIABLE

There are some actions that are necessary in order to obtain reliability over a network.

• User Authentication

The procedure which checks if the identity of the subscriber transferred over the radio path
corresponds with the details held in the network.

• User Anonymity

Instead of the actual directory telephone number, the International Mobile Subscriber Identity
(IMSI) number is used within the network to uniquely identify a mobile subscriber.

• Fraud Prevention

Protection against impersonation of authorized users and fraudulent use of the network is
required.

• Protection of user data

All the signals within the network are encrypted and the identification key is never transmitted
through the air. This ensures maximum network and data security.

The information needed for the above actions are stored in databases. The Home Location
Register (HLR) stores information relating the subscriber to its network. This includes
information for each subscriber on subscription levels, supplementary services and the current or
most recently used network and location area. The Authentication Center (AUC) provides the
information to authenticate subscribers using the network, in order to guard against possible
fraud, stolen sub scriber cards, or unpaid bills. The Visitor Location Register (VLR) stores
information about subscription levels, supplementary services and location for a subscriber who
is currently in, or has very recently been, in that area. It may also record whether a subscriber is
currently active, thus avoiding delay and unnecessary use of the network in trying to call a
switched off terminal.

4.5.3 : CDPD vs. OTHER TECHNOLOGIES

It is crucial to develop a secure personal mobile communication environment as secure

information flow and privacy are amongst users' top priorities today. CDPD , at 19.2 kbps is not
only the fastest available technology, but also the most secure due to its built in RC4 encryption
algorithm.

Cellular
Specialized Proprietary
Digital Circuit
Mobile Wireless
Packet Switched
Radio Data
Data Cellular
(Extended) Networks
(CDPD)

Speed best best good good

Security best better good better

Ubiquity best best good better

Cost of
best better better good
Service

Cost of
best best better good
Deployment

Mobility best good better good

Interoperabi
best good good better
lity
4.6 : ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF CDPD

4.6.1 : ADVANTAGES

1. Speed

Theoretical maximum speeds of up to 19.2kbps are achievable with CDPD, which is

faster than any other national wireless service offering available today. By allowing
information to be transmitted more quickly, immediately and efficiently across the
mobile network, CDPD is a less costly mobile data service compared to Circuit Switched
Data. Circuit Switch is generally charged on a time basis (like a voice call) where as
CDPD is a fixed fee per month per vehicle.

2. Immediacy

CDPD facilitates instant connections whereby information can be sent or received

immediately as the need arises, subject to cellular coverage. No dial-up modem
connection is necessary. This is why CDPD users are sometimes referred to as being
"always connected". Immediacy is one of the advantages of CDPD when compared to
conventional radio or circuit switched data. High immediacy is a very important feature
for time critical applications such as remote credit card authorization where it would be
unacceptable to keep the customer waiting for even thirty extra seconds.

3. Open Specification

Since CDPD is based on one of the most widely accepted networking protocols, it
provides unparalleled ease of use with existing IP-based applications in a wireless
environment. Additional software is also available which optimizes the performance of
the IP applications for CDPD networks. This ensures economical wireless data
transmissions via a CDPD network.

4. Reliability and Security

CDPD packets use forward error correction methods that reduce the effects of noise and
interference on the airlink. CDPD also incorporates authentication and encryption to all
packet transmissions over the airlink. With the use of standard network protocols, users
can add application-based end-to-end transmissions.
 5. Availability

Since CDPD utilizes existing cellular networks, carriers can deploy CDPD services in a
short period of time to meet customers' unique coverage requirements. The base
technology platform allows for easy integration with existing applications, and a
significant capability to provide wireless Internet accessibility. This also means there are
many companies offering many hardware, software and network options.

6. Cost Effectiveness

When transmitting appropriately sized data messages, CDPD can be substantially less
expensive than making the same connection during a data-over-cellular session.

7. Device Flexibility

• From full size vehicle mounted PC to CE and PalmPilot

• Significantly reduce hardware cost

• Accommodate multitude users

4.6.2 : DISADVANTAGES

• Limited availability for wide area

• Must be quasi-stationary to use

• Recurring monthly costs

• There may be no coverage available.

• Ongoing cost, and packet-based billing may limit the amount of data that can be
economically transferred.

• Not yet fully deployed.

• Coverage not available in less-populated areas.

• Priority access not available for government users.

• Potentially significant ongoing costs.

 • Newer technology.

• Does not support sustained data transfers well.

4.7 : THE FUTURE OF CDPD

CDPD technology, coupled with specialized software and advances in MDT systems, is moving
police organizations toward the day when it will be routine to operate as a "paperless"
organization. Several agencies throughout the United States have already adapted existing
technologies to allow them to make such a transformation.

Using MDT systems, officers can file virtually any report from their patrol vehicle. Accident
reports, parking tickets, court citations, and traffic citations can be prepared using the MDT,
printed in the officer’s vehicle, and transmitted via CDPD to headquarters. Every report is
legible, cannot be lost, and instantly appears in the agency’s computer system. This reduces the
time officers spend in police facilities and increases time spent in the community.

As telecommunications technologies improve, the two-way radio may become obsolete except as
a tool for priority traffic. Information once transmitted via radio can be transmitted via computer
on a secure digital cellular frequency. Police communications personnel can dispatch officers,
provide updated information on calls, and monitor the status of patrol units without touching a
conventional radio. Officers in the field can receive calls for service, perform background
checks, and complete reports without tying up a radio channel.

Supervisors can monitor the status of all the units in their patrol area at the touch of a button.
Personnel needing to use their two-way radio for a priority transmission may do so without
having to wait for another unit to report on the status of a barking dog complaint.

A paperless department could significantly increase the operating efficiency of a department

covering a large jurisdiction with few officers. Field personnel would no longer have to travel
out of their patrol zone to drop off paperwork at the end of their shift. It would no longer take
hours or days for a report to make its way from a field officer to the records division. Officers
working in the most remote recesses of an agency’s jurisdiction can quickly and easily submit
reports. Time once spend relaying paperwork can be spent on other priorities.

MDT options are quickly expanding beyond the confines of patrol cars. A British police force
recently equipped a horse-mounted officer with a wireless, handheld MDT unit operating with
CDPD technology. As technologies improve (and costs decline) it may be possible to equip all
officers with such handheld units (just as most officers now are issued handheld two-way
radios). Officers on patrol may take their computer unit out of their vehicle on calls for service.
Investigators at the scene of a crime might be able to operate more effectively by accessing
departmental records in order to check for similar offenses. Even officers working on a footbeat
might be able to access databases and complete reports without leaving their assigned post.

As other technologies and the Internet continue to develop, CDPD may be used to support a wide
variety of other police applications. Real-time digital cameras could link an investigator in the
field with experts around the world. A detective in a small town could link with a state arson
investigator to receive instant assistance in processing a crime scene.

Investigators in different countries could instantly share information as they track an

international organized crime group or terrorist organization. Given the remarkable advances
which have taken place in the past 15-20 years, it is hard to imagine the changes policing will
undergo in the next two decades.

5 : MOBILE NUMBER PORTABILITY (MNP)

5.1 : WHAT IS MOBILE NUMBER PORTABILITY (MNP)

Mobile number portability (MNP) is the process of transferring (porting) your mobile phone
number from one mobile phone network provider to another. You may want to do this if you
wish to sign up to a new mobile phone provider and keep your original mobile phone number,
thus saving you the inconvenience of updating your contacts with your new telephone number.
Mobile number porting is becoming increasingly popular worldwide due to the savings that can
be made by switching mobile phone providers in order to get a better mobile phone tariff , better
service and a healthier competition between the service providers

MNP is not a subscriber service. It is a network feature that allows the subscriber to keep a
unique mobile phone number. The absence of MNP may give the existing cellular mobile
operators a significant competitive advantage over new entrants in the market. MNP is the
important mechanism to enhance fair competition among different cellular mobile operators to
improve customer service quality.

In Indian cellular communication scenario, the term MNP is becoming more

popular. Sticking to Herbert Spencer’s theory on “Survival of the fittest”, the mobile
operators will be forced to follow this theory in serving the customers. Either they have to
satisfy their customers with the service or lose them to their competitors without any
problem to the customers. It could also be termed as, a customer having the option of
switching service providers without changing the mobile number.
With current scenario, if a customer is dissatisfied on the service by mobile
operator either he has to reluctantly accept the service or switch to another service
provider that he wishes. In the later case, he has to drop his identity, the mobile number.
In most cases when the mobile number is used for all business and family
correspondence, it becomes generally impossible to leave the number. To overcome these
hardships, the concept of MNP (Mobile Number Portability) was introduced.

5.2 : HISTORY

Though it was introduced as a tool to promote competition in the heavily monopolized wireline
telecommunications industry (see the First Report and Order on LNP and Number Pooling),
number portability became popular with the advent of mobile telephones, since in most countries
different mobile operators are provided with different area codes and, without portability,
changing one's operator would require changing one's number. Some operators, especially
incumbent operators with large existing subscriber bases, have argued against portability on the
grounds that providing this service incurs considerable overhead, while others argue that it
prevents vendor lock-in and allows them to compete fairly on price and service. Due to this
conflict of interest, number portability is usually mandated for all operators by
telecommunications regulatory authorities. In the US, LNP was mandated by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) in 1996 with the First Report and Order on LNP and
Number Pooling. The mandate required all carriers in the top 100 MSAs (metropolitan statistical
areas) to be "LNP-capable" and port numbers to any carriers sending a BFR (bona fide request).
The ability to keep a number while switching providers is thought to be attractive to consumers.
It was also a major point made by CLECs (Competitive Local Exchange Carriers) preventing
customers from leaving ILECs (Incumbent Line Exchange Carriers), thus hindering competition.
Details regarding the reasons for LNP and how it is to be implemented can be found in the First
Report and Order referenced above.

In the U.S., the FCC has mandated this in order to increase competition among providers. As of
late November 2003, LNP was required for all landline and wirelesscommon carriers, so long as
the number is being ported to the same geographical area or telephone exchange. This latest
mandate included carriers outside the top 100 MSAs that theretofore enjoyed a rural carrier
exemption.

The first implementation of MNP starts in late 1990s with Singapore implementing the MNP
(limited) functionality in 1997 followed by Hong Kong in 1999, Spain in 2000, Australia in 2001
and list continues to grow.

5.3: DEFINITIONS
 • Donor – The network who is releasing the subscriber.The service provider left by the
subscriber is termed as “donor”

• Receipient – The network who is accepting the subscriber.The service provider joined by
the subscriber is termed as “recipient”

• LRN- Local Routing Number. This is used to identify the ported and unported numbers
in the national database.

5.4 : IMPLEMENTATION

The MNP is implemented in different ways across the globe.

The international and European standard is for a customer wishing to port his/her number to
contact the new provider (Recipient) who will then arrange necessary process with the old
provider (Donor). This is also known as 'Recipient-Led' porting.

The UK is the only country to not implement a Recipient-Led system, where a customer wishing
to port his/her number is required to contact the Donor to obtain a Porting Authorisation Code
(PAC) which he/she then has to give to the Recipient. Once having received the PAC the
Recipient continues the port process by contacting the Donor. This form of porting is also known
as 'Donor-Led' and has been criticised by some industry analysts as being inefficient.

It has also been observed that it may act as a customer deterrent as well as allowing the Donor an
opportunity of 'winning-back' the customer. This might lead to distortion of competition,
especially in the markets with new entrants that are yet to achieve scalability of operation.

5.5 : WHY PORT YOUR NUMBER ?

The following are the Benefits of number portability:

 To subscribers:

• Better quality & bouquet of value-added services offered by any operator

• Competitive tariff package will be offered by all providers

• Survival of the most competent and promising providers in the market

 Benefits to mobile network providers and the mobile industry:

 • Updated technology and latest sophistication prevent stagnation of resource upgradation

• Healthy competition between providers

 Types of mobile number portability

• Location portability- The ability of a subscriber to retain an existing Mobile number,

when shifting from one circle to another keeping the operator same as before.

• Service portability-It is the ability of a subscriber to retain the existing Mobile number
when changing from one service to another service, say from GSM to CDMA services.

• Operator portability-This is the ability of a subscriber to retain within the same service
area, an existing Mobile number even if they change from one service provider/operator
to another.

All three shall be implemented in india

5.6 : REQUIREMENTS FOR MNP

An effective MNP system requires a database having information of the networks and associated
imported or exported numbers. In India, a central as well as regional databases are being
planned.

Most countries have a centralized database service managed by a neutral third party. A
centralized clearing house for electronically processing the importing / exporting requests also
needs to be setup, to minimize the time to port (i.e. to transfer the numbers from one network to
another).

5.7 : WHO MANAGES THE PORTED NUMBER DATABASE ?

The number database is managed by a neutral third party. The cost of the database is to be borne
by each operator depending on the strength of their subscribers i.e. depending on their market
share.

In India, Telcordia Technologies, formerly Bell Communications Research, Inc. and Syniverse
have been granted a license by DoT to manage the portability database.
5.8 : HURDLES/ISSUES OF MNP SYSTEM

• Handset portability from GSM to CDMA type of networks

• Constant updation of the database to keep it consistent

• SMS routing (i. e. forwarding SMS's between networks)

• routing of Long Distance (National / International) calls

• Altering the National Numbering Plan (which maintains the number format and series
allocation of phone numbers for different services)

• Cooperation of all stakeholders and mobile phone service providers

• Dispute Resolution Machinery and Guidelines for mobile service providers

• Coordinated billing for multi-mode facilities

• Porting Fees and guidelines

5.9 : LAWS GOVERNING MNP

The Statute governing mobile number portability is called the Telecommunication Mobile
Number Portability Per Port Transaction Charge and Dipping Charge Regulations, 2009.

5.10 : HOW ARE NUMBERS PORTED ACROSS NETWORKS ?

MNP technology provides the means to move a subscriber's mobile number from the donor
network (the subscriber’s current service provider network) to the recipient network (the
subscriber’s new service provider network), when the subscriber chooses to change his/her
service provider.

This process of moving a number is called “porting”. The number is “ported” to the new
network. To complete the port, the subscriber's mobile number and the recipient’s network ID
are paired and updated in a master centralized database.

The porting model selected in India has an excellent track record of success on a global basis.
India will use a recipient-operator initiated method of porting, which means a subscriber will go
to his/her desired new operator to initiate the port, and that new operator will start the porting
process to close the account at the subscriber’s soon-to-be former operator.

For call routing, India has selected the all-call query model, which requires each call be checked
against a database of ported numbers to determine which network should terminate the call.

5.11 : PORTING AUTHORISATION CODE

Porting Authorisation Code (PAC) is a unique identifier used by some mobile and fixed-
linetelephone network providers to facilitate mobile number portability (MNP). This allows users
to retain their mobile telephone number when switching operators.

The grounds on which an ISP may refuse to issue a MAC are

• The ISP is unable to confirm the identity of the account holder by performing standard
checks

• The broadband service contract has already been terminated

• A valid MAC has already been requested and issued by the ISP

• The ISP has already submitted a cease request for the broadband service

• The underlying broadband network communications provider used by the ISP is unable to
generate a MAC. In the UK the underlying broadband network communications provider
is generally BT as they own the majority of the telecoms infrastructure.

• If the service is provided over an MPF network

5.12 : CONCEPT AND IMPLEMENTATION

In terms of concept, the MNP functionality is used only in MT transactions of voice and
messaging. For MO transactions, the current flow scenario remains unchanged.

Only for the MT functionalities, the mobile number has to be identified and the corresponding
service provider has to be interrogated for optimal routing of the service.
There are two basic implementation of MNP.

a) Indirect Routing or decentralized or bilateral architecture:

This model works bilaterally between the donor and recipient service providers who are
responsible for informing all others of the change. It would suit to markets with less number of
service providers. Each provider will have a dedicated setup and comprehensive database of
ported out and ported in subscribers. As the number of service providers increases, the bilateral
approach becomes a great burden to all service providers involved in terms of time, cost and
resources.FNR (Flexible Number Register) will help the service provider shave the ported
database in addition to the original HLR database.

Sample implementation of MNP in middle east:

In one of the countries of middle east, the MNP service is implemented in bilateral architecture.
There are two operators available in the country and each have their own customized system for
handling the MNP database. Whenever a customer wants to change his service provider, he visits
the recipient provider and initiates a request to port in the subscription with the recipient
provider. The recipient party then coordinates with the donor party for porting the number.
During the process, the donor deletes the number from its HLR database and updates the number
in its FNR – ported out list. Similarly the recipient party updates the number in its HLR database
and FNR – ported in list.

Coming to the MT transactions, there are two possible options,

1. Call from same PLMN: As both the service providers have the complete list of
Ported out and ported in numbers, the originating MSC will route the call either to
its own network or to other network based on available database.

2. Call from outside the PLMN: As the originating network need not to be aware
of the MNP functionality, it will route the call based on the number series
database available with it. The recipient network will make further analysis for
routing of the call by following the procedures mentioned in previous point.

NP

Network Network
B
 Fig 8. Low complexity architecture

Fig 5.1 : Shows the least complex centralized approach of the Ericsson MSC perspective of
indirect routing – MNP

For a single operator, three considerations have to be made.

1.Analysis for ported in Home subscriber or Native subscriber.
2.Analysis for ported in other PLMN subscriber or non-Native subscriber.
3.Analysis for ported out subscriber.

 Issues with this type of routing:

• Routing to the ported user is indirect and possibly costly, because additional transit charges,
interconnect charges, and/or extra conveyance costs may be generated even when the
originating provider is the same as the terminating recipient provider.
• For the donor network, billing associated with ported and non-ported numbers cannot be
differentiated.
• If the donor network uses a small, non-high-performance database, increased for ported
numbersisinevitable.
• Due to the dependence on the donor network, the receiving network cannot serve the
ported user reliably, because it has no control over the quality of service on the
donornetwork.
• If the donor provider discontinues its operations or is experiencing a network failure,
the ported subscribers cannot be reached even if they ported numbers years ago .This is
a growing concern due to the increasing number of failures and the high cost to put these
subscribers back in service.

In India, this service is expected to be operational by the mid of 2009. The DoT
(Department of Telecom) has issued license to two global companies to implement the
feature in two zones. Telecordia, the world’s leading provider of MNP services has
solutions deployed across none countries including the US, Canada, Egypt, Greece and
South Africa has been issued with license for implementing MNP in north and west zone
in India.
 Fig 5.2 : Architecture usage – Pie diagram

Thus the complexity and risk is reduced to a minimum ,according to fig 5.2 ,with the little
increase in work for the service providers to make an additional check. This model is highly
recommended for MNP implementation and the routing procedures can be discussed between the
operators.

 MNP in India:
Syniverse technologies, also a major player in voice and data solutions has been
issued with license for south and east zones. The license issued in February 2009 quotes
the companies to start service for metro cities by six months and other regions within
twelve months. They will provide a “central clearing house” model for MNP in India.

5.13 : INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MNP

1. United Kingdom is yet to switch to centralized solution ( as of Jan2008).

2. The time taken to port a subscriber between the service providers should not be greater than
the time taken to activate a new subscriber.
3. It takes only 3 minutes in Australia to port a subscriber successfully.
4. The first MNP implementation was made in 1990 Singapore.
5. Free of charge in countries and chargeable in some countries

5.14 : PORTING PROCESS

i. The Subscriber shall choose a new network operator (referred to as Recipient Operator).
ii. The Subscriber shall fill out and submit the prescribed Porting / subscription application form
to the Recipient Operator.

iii. Present original primary identification (CNIC / NIC / Passport – in case of a foreigner /
NICOP – for overseas Pakistanis) to the Recipient Operator.

iv. Copy of the same required shall be submitted along with the Porting application form to the
Recipient Operator.

v. Provide the SIM number to the Recipient Operator.

vi. SIM of the mobile number to be ported may be required to be presented to the Recipient
operator on the spot for verification purposes only.

vii. In case of corporate Subscribers, the company/organization shall submit a copy of the
primary identification of the chief executive / authorized signatory along with a request on the
Prescribed Porting request application or company letterhead duly signed / sealed requesting
porting of number(s) issued on the name of the same company/organization.

viii. The Recipient Operator and the Donor Operator will process the porting application and in
doing so, the porting request may be rejected or put on hold due to various reasons as described
in the next section.

ix. In case of rejection or hold, the Donor Operator may contact the Subscriber to settle the
financial, contractual or any other issues / reasons related to the said rejection or holding of the
porting request.

x. The Subscriber may also contact the Donor Operator to settle the financial, contractual or any
other issues / reasons related to the said rejection or holding of the porting request.

xi. The Subscriber shall be provided with a SIM from the Recipient Operator during the porting
process.

xii. At the completion of the porting process, Subscriber’s number will be active on the new SIM
provided by the Recipient Operator and will be ready for use.

xiii. The porting process shall be completed within 4 business days from the time a Number
Porting Request is successfully initiated electronically from the Recipient operator system;
excluding any time for which the Number Porting Request may be put on hold by the Donor
Operator.

5.15 : NUMBER LOOKUP SERVICE

Service providers and carriers who route messages and voice calls to MNP-enabled countries
might use HLR query services to find out the correct network of a mobile phone number.

Fig A number of such services exist, which query the operator's home location register (HLR)
over the SS7 signalling network in order to determine the current network of a specified mobile
phone number prior to attempted routing of messaging or voice traffic.

Fig 5.3 : Different approaches to lookup service

Fig 5.4 : MNP network diagram

5.16 : PORTABILITY SCHEMES

There are four main methods to route a number whose operator has changed

All Call Query (ACQ)

The operator that originates the call always checks a centralized database and obtains the
route to the call.

Steps for the ACQ scheme. Those call steps are as follows:

1) The Originating Network receives a call from the caller and send a query to a centrally
administered Number Portability Database (NPDB), a copy of which is usually resident
on a network element within its network or through a third party provider.

2) The NPDB returns the routing number associated with the dialed directory number.

3) The Originating Network uses the routing number to route the call to the new serving
network.
+-------------+ +-----------+ Number +-----------+
| Centralized | | New Serv. | ported | Old Serv. |
| NPDB | +-------->| Network |<------------| Network |
+-------------+ | +-----------+ +-----------+
^ | |
| | |
1| | 3.|
| | 2. |
| | |
| v |
+----------+ | +----------+ +----------+
| Orig. |------+ | Donor | | Internal |
| Network | | Network | | NPDB |
+----------+ +----------+ +----------+
Fig 5.5 : All Call Query (ACQ) Scheme

Query on Release (QoR)

The operator that originates the call first checks with the operator to which the number
initially belonged, the donor operator. The donor operator verifies the call and informs
that it no longer possesses the number. The operator that originates the call then checks
the centralized database, as is done with ACQ.

Figure 5.6 shows the call steps for the QoR scheme. Those call steps are as follows:
 +-------------+ +-----------+ Number +-----------+
| Centralized | | New Serv. | ported | Old Serv. |
| NPDB | | Network |<------------| Network |
+-------------+ +-----------+ +-----------+
^ | ^
| | 4. |
3.| | 5. |
| | +----------------------+
| | |
| v |
+----------+ 2. +----------+ +----------+
| Orig. |<---------------| Donor | | Internal |
| Network |--------------->| Network | | NPDB |
+----------+ 1. +----------+ +----------+

Fig 5.6 : Query on Release (QoR) Scheme

a. The Originating Network receives a call from the caller and routes the call to the
donor network.

b. The donor network releases the call and indicates that the dialed directory number
has been ported out of that switch.

c. The Originating Network sends a query to its copy of the centrally administered
NPDB.

d. The NPDB returns the routing number associated with the dialed directory
number.

e. The Originating Network uses the routing number to route the callto the new
serving network.
Call Dropback

Also known as Return to Pivot (RoP). The operator that originates the call first checks
with the donor operator. The donor operator checks its own database and provides a new
route. The operator that originates the call then uses this route to forward the call.

Figure 5.7 shows the call steps for the Dropback scheme. This scheme is also known as "Return
to Pivot (RTP)." Those call steps are as follows:

a. The Originating Network receives a call from the caller and routesthe call to the
donor network.

b. The donor network detects that the dialed directory number hasbeen ported out of
the donor switch and checks with an internalnetwork-specific NPDB.

c. The internal NPDB returns the routing number associated with thedialed directory
number.
 d. The donor network releases the call by providing the routing number.

e. The Originating Network uses the routing number to route the callto the new
serving network.

+-------------+ +-----------+ Number +-----------+

| Centralized | | New Serv. | porting | Old Serv. |
| NPDB | | Network |<------------| Network |
+-------------+ +-----------+ +-----------+
/\
|
5. |
+------------------------+
|
|
+----------+ 4. +----------+ 3. +----------+
| Orig. |<---------------| Donor |<----------| Internal |
| Network |--------------->| Network |---------->| NPDB |
+----------+ 1. +----------+ 2. +----------+

Fig 5.7 : Drawback Schemes

Onward Routing (OR)

The operator that originates the call checks with the donor operator. The donor operator
checks its own database and obtains a new route. The operator to which the number was
designated routes itself the call to the new operator. This model is called indirect routing.

Figure 5.8 shows the call steps for the OR scheme. Those call steps are as follows:

a. The Originating Network receives a call from the caller and routes the call to the
donor network.

b. The donor network detects that the dialed directory number has been ported out of
the donor switch and checks with an internal network-specific NPDB.

c. The internal NPDB returns the routing number associated with the dialed directory
number.

d. The donor network uses the routing number to route the call to the new serving
network.

+-------------+ +-----------+ Number +-----------+

| Centralized | | New Serv. | porting | Old Serv. |
| NPDB | | Network |----------| Network |
 +-------------+ +-----------+ +-----------+
/\
|
4.|
|
+----------+ +----------+ 3. +----------+
| Orig. | | Donor |<----------| Internal |
| Network |--------------->| Network |---------->| NPDB |
+----------+ 1. +----------+ 2. +----------+

Fig 5.8 : Onward Routing(OR) Scheme

5.17 : COMPARISON OF THE FOUR SCHEMES

Only the ACQ scheme does not involve the donor network when routing the call to the new
serving network of the dialed ported number. The other three schemes involve call setup to or
signaling with the donor network.

Only the OR scheme requires the setup of two physical call segments ,one from the Originating
Network to the donor network and the other from the donor network to the new serving network.
The OR scheme is the least efficient in terms of using the network transmission facilities. The
QoR and Dropback schemes set up calls to the donor network first but release the call back to the
Originating Network that then initiates a new call to the Current Serving Network.

Forthe QoR and Dropback schemes, circuits are still reserved one by one between the
Originating Network and the donor network when the Originating Network sets up the call
towards the donor network. Those circuits are released one by one when the call is released from
the donor network back to the Originating Network. The ACQ scheme is the most efficient in
terms of using the switching and transmission facilities for the call.

Both the ACQ and QoR schemes involve Centralized NPDBs for the Originating Network to
retrieve the routing information. Centralized NPDB means that the NPDB contains ported
number information from multiple networks.

This is in contrast to the internal network-specific NPDB that is used for the Dropback and OR
schemes. The internal NPDB only contains information about the numbers that were ported out
of the donor network. The internal NPDB can be a stand-alone database that contains
information about all or some ported-outnumbers from the donor network. It can also reside on
the donor switch and only contain information about those numbers ported out of the donor
switch. In that case, no query to a stand-alone internal NPDB is required. The donor switch for
a particular phone number is the switch to which the number range is assigned from which that
phone number was originally assigned.
For example, number ranges in the North American Numbering Plan(NANP) are usually
assigned in the form of central office codes (CO codes) comprising a six-digit prefix formatted
as a NPA+NXX. Thus a switch serving +1-202-533 would typically serve +1-202-533-0000

Through +1-202-533-9999. In major cities, switches usually host several CO codes. NPA
stands for Numbering Plan Area, which is also known as the area code. It is three-digits long
and has the format of NXX where N is any digit from 2 to 9 and X is any digit from 0 to 9.
NXX, in the NPA+NXX format, is known as the office code that has the same format as the
NPA. When a NPA+NXX code is set as "portable" in the Local Exchange Routing Guide
(LERG), it becomes a "portable NPA+NXX" code.

Similarly, in other national E.164 numbering plans, number ranges cover a contiguous range of
numbers within that range. Once a number within that range has ported away from the donor
network, all numbers in that range are considered potentially ported and should be queried in the
NPDB.

The ACQ scheme has two versions. One version is for the Originating Network to always query
the NPDB when a call is received from the caller regardless of whether the dialed directory
number belongs to any number range that is portable or has at least one number ported out. The
other version is to check whether the dialed directory number belongs to any number range that
is portable or has at least one number ported out. If yes, an NPDB query is sent. If not, no
NPDB query is sent. The former performs better when there are many portable number ranges.
The latter performs better when there are not too many portable number ranges at the expense of
checking every call to see whether NPDB query is needed. The latter ACQ scheme is similar to
the QoR scheme, except that the QoR scheme uses call setup and relies on the donor network to
indicate "number ported out "before launching the NPDB query.

5.18 : QUERY PROTOCOLS / INTERFACES

One of the following five NPDB interfaces can be used to query an NPDB:

a)Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN): using the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) version of the Intelligent Network Application Part (INAP) [ANSI SS] [ANSI DB]. The
INAP is carried on top of the protocol stack that includes the (ANSI) Message
Transfer Part (MTP) Levels 1 through 3, ANSI SCCP and ANSI TCAP. This interface can be
used by the wireline or wireless switches, is specific to the NP implementation in North
America, and is modeled on the Public Office Dialing Plan (PODP) trigger defined in the
Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) 0.1 call model.
b)Intelligent Network (IN),: which is similar to the one used for querying the 800 databases.
The IN protocol is carried on top of the protocol stack that includes the ANSI MTP Levels 1
through 3,ANSI SCCP, and ANSI TCAP. This interface can be used by the wireline or wireless
switches.

c)ANSI IS-41 [IS41] [ISNP], which is carried on top of the protocol stack that includes the
ANSI MTP Levels 1 through 3, ANSI SCCP, and ANSI TCAP. This interface can be used by
the IS-41 based cellular/Personal Communication Services (PCS) wireless switches(e.g., AMPS,
TDMA and CDMA). Cellular systems use spectrum at 800MHz range and PCS systems use
spectrum at 1900 MHz range.

d) Global System for Mobile Communication Mobile Application Part(GSM MAP) [GSM] ,
which is carried on top of the protocol stack that includes the ANSI MTP Levels 1 through 3,
ANSI SCCP, and International Telecommunication Union - Telecommunication Sector(ITU-TS)
TCAP. It can be used by the PCS1900 wireless switches that are based on the GSM
technologies. GSM is a series of wireless standards defined by the European
Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).

e)ISUP triggerless translation. NP translations are performed transparently to the switching

network by the signaling network(e.g., Signaling Transfer Points (STPs) or signaling
gateways).ISUP IAM messages are examined to determine if the CdPN field has already been
translated, and if not, an NPDB query is performed, and the appropriate parameters in the IAM
message modified to reflect the results of the translation. The modified IAM message is
forwarded by the signaling node on to the designated DPC in a transparent manner to continue
call setup. The NPDB can be integrated with the signaling node or, accessed via an Application
Programming Interface (API) locally, or by a query to a remote NPDB using a proprietary
protocol or the schemes described above.

Wireline switches have the choice of using either (a), (b), or (e).IS-41 based wireless switches
have the choice of using (a), (b), (c),or (e). PCS1900 wireless switches have the choice of using
(a), (b),(d), or (e). In the United States, service provider portability will be supported by both the
wireline and wireless systems, not only within the wireline or wireless domain but also across the
wireline/wireless boundary. However, this is not true in Europe where service provider
portability is usually supported only within the wireline or wireless domain, not across the
wireline/ wireless boundary due to explicit use of service-specific number range prefixes. The
reason is to avoid caller confusion about the call charge. GSM systems in Europe are assigned
distinctive destination network codes, and the caller pays a higher charge when calling a GSM
directory number.

Also, it has been seen that the All Call Query (ACQ) and Onward Routing(OR) are the most
widely used queries in MNP setups across the world.
 Fig 5.9 : Routing approach – pie distribution

5.19 : SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS

In the PSTN, the NPDB queries are generated by the PSTN switches and carried over the SS7
networks to reach the NPDBs and back to the switches. The SS7 networks are operated by
telecommunication operators and signaling transport service providers in such a closed
environment that make them difficult for the hackers to penetrate.

However, when VoIP operators need the NP information and have to launch the NP queries from
their soft switches, media gateway controllers or call managers, there would be security concerns
if the NP queries and responses are transported over the Internet .If the routing number or routing
prefix in the response is altered during the message transport, the call will be routed to the wrong
place.

It is recommended that the NPDB queries be transported via a secure transport layer or with
added security mechanisms to ensure the data integrity.

5.20 : MNP GLOBAL SUCCESS

There are currently over 30 Mobile Number Portability (MNP) implementations at a

global level since the facility made its first appearance in Singapore in 1997. Our international
benchmarks show a high variation in MNP impact across the different markets ranging from
0.36% in Portugal to 14.76% in Hong Kong (based on total numbers ported in 2006). The level
of impact of MNP in a market is highly dependent on the quality of the implementation, but
where the regulator has introduced a fast, simple process that can be driven by the network
operator the number is to be ported to, there has always been an increase in market
competitiveness characterised by an initial rise in churn followed by price erosion and service
improvements from the customer's perspective.
A look at the various factors affecting uptake of MNP services across different markets and
analyse the strategies adopted by individual operators to carry out aggressive MNP campaigns as
well as incumbent strategies aimed at limiting the impact of MNP.

Fig 5.10 : MNP Global success

Port DurationsinDays by Country

Australia
Ireland
USA
Hong
Belgium
Netherla
Sweden
Spain
Finland
German
Norway
Country AveragePort
Switzerl
Ratep.a.
Italy
Greece Finland 19.6%
Portugal
HongKong 15.1%
United
Norway 8.4%
SouthKorea 7.9%
France
Denmark 7.6%
0 Fig 5.11 : Port durations (global)
10 USA 20 305.4% 40 50 60
Australia 4.4%
Belgium 4.2%
Ireland 4.2%
Sweden 2.5%
Italy 2.0%
Spain 1.1%
UnitedKingdom 0.9%
France 0.7%
Switzerland 0.5%
Greece 0.4%
Netherlands 0.4%
Germany 0.4%
Portugal 0.1%
 Fig 5.12 : Sample Porting Rates

Average Annual Port Rates for 19 Countries

20.0%
18.0%
16.0%
14.0%
12.0%
10.0%
8.0%
6.0%
4.0%
2.0%
0.0%
Fin
Ho d
No Kon
So y
De Kor

Au
Be lia
Ir e m
Sw
Ita en
Sp
Un

Sw
Gr
Ne e
Ge rlan
P o any
US ark

Fr
an i ngd
ly

ee and
lan
ng
rw
uth
nm ea

str
lgi

ain
ite

t he

rtu
r m ds
itz
lan

ed
A

ce
u

c
a

dK

erl

ga
d

l
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om

Fig 5.13: Number Portability Implementation Alternatives and Deployment Rate

5.21 : SUMARRY OF MNP

By removing one of the most significant barriers to unrestrained competition, Number Portability
is perhaps the most exciting opportunity in the telecommunications industry since divestiture.
The challenges and opportunities created by Number Portability, especially Service Provider
Portability, are enormous, with over $50 billion in wireless revenues in the U.S. at stake,
according to the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). The wireless providers that
are able to carefully analyze their network and administrative infrastructures, select the best NP
solution for their needs, successfully deploy NP, and exploit the new-found freedom of customer
choice that Number Portability enables, will position themselves for success in a truly
competitive environment. And wireless providers that launch Number Portability initiatives now
are likely to enjoy a significant competitive advantage in the future.

6 : PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

6.1 : NEED OF PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

Today’s mobile phones are no longer voice-call only equipment. High-bandwidth internet is
becoming available through EDGE and the 3rd generation mobile systems. Packet switched data
communication is playing a more and more significant role in the mobile network and is seen as
a more efficient way to utilize the resources than circuit switched connections. Progression from
the first systems to today’s UMTS has resulted in more processing power, more availability and
more services, due to the continuing growth of customers and newer technology available. New
services for mobile phones, like email, web browsing, audio and video streaming demands more
and more from the underlying network. If the network do not deliver what these services needs,
the performance and the user experience will be unsatisfactory. Mobile phones are also today
often used as dial-up modems to connect portable personal computers to the internet, because of
the coverage, quick access and no need for cables of any kind. There are increasing needs for
high bit rates, low delay and jitter.
Therefore, it is useful for companies who specialize in cellular network optimization or even
service providers to have the ability to measure the performance of the network, for the purpose
to optimize the network usage and enhance customer experience.
The increasing number of customers has put great pressure on the Telecom Industry.
Optimization is the key to ensure that the network can provide reasonable level of service
quality. In such a situation it is very essential for the network providers to constantly measure,
monitor and improve their performance. Thus performance measurement is very critical.

6.2 : KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

KPI or Key Performance Indicators are quantifiable measurements, agreed to beforehand, that
reflect the critical success factors (of the company, department, project.)

The are also known as Key Success Factors (KSF) or Key Success Indicators (KSI).

A KPI defines itself, to a large extent, by its name; it is a performance indicator, i.e.
the performance of the process it is measuring should be clearly indicated by the KPI.
In fact, among all the tools available to executives to change the organization and move it in a
new direction, KPIs are perhaps the most powerful.
KPIs focus employees' attention on the tasks and processes that executives deem most critical to
the success of the business. KPIs are like levers that executives can pull to move the organization
in new and different directions. Without KPI an organization will not perform to its maximum
There are two major types of KPIs: leading and lagging indicators. Leading indicators measure
activities that have a significant effect on future performance, whereas lagging indicators, such
as most financial KPIs, measure the output of past activity.

Characteristics of good KPIs : S.M.A.R.T.

• Specific : A KPI should have a clear and complete definition and formula, including check
point and procedure.
• Measurable : A KPI should be measurable by given condition, measurement equipment and
procedure.
• Attainable : All KPIs should be reachable. It is referred to as a commercial network.
• Relevant : the KPI must show the subscriber (customer) experience.
• Time-bound : A KPI target should be time bound.

6.3 : KPIs IN TELECOM INDUSTRY

 Call centers

- Wait times - Average speed of answer

- Call volume
- Revenue per call
- Number of call transfers
- Number of one call resolutions
- Customer satisfaction
- Agent Efficiency
- Number of complaints received
- Average quality of calls
- Average call length
- Abandon rates
- Number of calls answered within ten seconds

 Systems and Network Performance Analysis / Capacity Planning

- Availability - Grade of service

- Service life of equipment - Bit error ratio (data, bits & elements)

- Bit rate (data, bits and elements transfer)
- Call completion ratio
- Cost of operational systems
- Analysis of ASR routes
- Idle time on network
- Downtime / Time out of service
- Cost of support systems
- Average call length
- Network traffic, congestion
- Dropped calls
 Revenue / Financial Analysis
- Average revenue per user (ARPU)
- ARPU from contracts
- % of non-voice revenue
- Minutes of usage (MoU) per subscriber
- Average revenue per subscriber (ARPS)
- Analysis of company overheads
 Customer Satisfaction
- Average score from external surveys
- Average score from call monitoring
- Total number of unresolved issues
 Quality / Usage (Airtime): Analysis of the volume of successful calls
- Mean Opinion Score
- Duration of calls
 Coverage
- % of land covered with services
- Average land unavailable to services
- Access to customer service
 Marketing
- Effect of promo campaign on subscriptions
- Segment analysis
- Prepaid ARPU
- Revenue per voice-minute
- Average revenue realization (ARR)
- Average revenue per employee (ARPE)
- Periodical Revenue Analysis
- Profit and loss Analysis
- Average score from internal surveys
- Total number of complaints
- Number of responses generated
- Service
- Billed amount on each call
- % of population covered with services
- Average population unavailable to services
- Trend analysis
- Call behavior analysis
  Faults and complains (Trouble tickets analysis)

- % of open and level of escalation priority required - % closed

- Mean time to resolved - Work in progress
- Customer service level statistics

 Fraud Analysis

- Normal traffic
- Identify deviations from normal traffic patterns
- Normal usage per customer per area of country
- Identify phone numbers for customers with high deviation

 Compliance / Service Analysis

- Service connection - Timeframes repairs and installations

- Reliability - New service connections
- Activations, de-activations, re-activations - Misc services
- Waiting time - Waiting period before grant of service
- % order error rates and reasons

6.4 : NETWORK KPIs

In a telecommunication network there is constant need to monitor and analyze the network to
ensure that the standards are maintained and the service is provided uninterrupted.
In the telecom sector there are three major KPIs
 Accessibility : Accessibility has to do with the users being able to set up a call and access
radio resources.
 Retainability : Retainability covers the ability to keep up a call, and quality deals with
how good the connection is.
 Quality : Quality can be measured with speech frame error rate.
They can all be measured at the radio level and easily be transformed into a
measurement of service quality.

The various KPIs are :

 Call Attempts :
It is a number indicating the total attempts for a call that have been made.
They are measured over a period of time. They can be measured for a BTS, a sector of a
BTS or for a particular carrier in a sector of the BTS.
Attempts maybe to originate or terminate a call.
Orig Attempts : The total number of attempts to make a call ( outgoing )
Term attempts : The total number of attempts to receive a call ( incoming )

 Call Setup Success Ratio (CSSR) :

It is a ratio of the number of calls that were successfully connected to the total number of
call attempts.
It is expressed as a percentage .
CSSR = (Calls successfully connected / Call attempts) x 100 %

 Call Drop rate/ ratio :

It is the ratio of the number of calls drooped ( calls that could not be completed) to the
total number of calls that were successfully setup( can also be the total number of call
attempts )
Can be expressed as a percentage.
One of the most critical KPIs.
Call Completion Rate : It is the ratio of the number of calls successfully completed to the
total number of calls that were successfully setup ( can also be the total number of call
attempts).
Can be expressed as a percentage.

 ASR (Answer Seizure Ratio):

The ratio of the number of successful calls over the total number of outgoing calls from a
carrier’s network.

 Post Dialing Delay:

In GSM network, is the average time between pressing send button (after pressing correct
digits) and getting a ring back tone. This is also called “Call Setup Time” or time to
connect a call.

 Handover Success Rate:

This is the ratio of the number of successfully completed handovers to the total number
of initiated handovers. This ratio can be expresses as a percentage.

 Main RSSI ( Received Signal Strength Intensity ):

A signal or circuit that indicates the strength of the incoming (received) signal in a
receiver. (The signal strength indicator on a cell phone display is a common example).
For a BTSit is an indication of the power level being received by the antenna. Generally,
the higher the RSSI level is the stronger the signal.
The basic circuit is designed to pick RF signals and generate an output equivalent to the
signal strength. The ability of the receiver to pick the weakest of signals is referred to as
receiver sensitivity. Higher the receiver sensitivity, the better. There are circuits which
 measure the signal strength based on the output voltage. If the signal strength is good the
output voltage is higher and the output voltage is poor if the signal strength is low. Some
indicators are designed to flash one of their lights indicating the signal strength.
Depending on the received signal power, an amplifier can be used to boost the signal.

 TCH congestion :

TCH congestion mean there is no free TCH to make call or request handoff , and the
blocking means you have no channel to make call, then you can't access the system which
leads to blocking .

 Voice Quality Impairment: Speech Quality

Speech quality is a complex psycho-acoustic phenomenon within the process of perception. As

such, it is necessarily subjective (i.e., Every person interprets speech quality in a different
way).Nevertheless, if speech quality is to be quantified and measured automatically, the
dependence on individual opinion must be eliminated. Therefore speech quality is generally
expressed as a Mean Opinion Score (MOS). Speech quality measurements provide a
measurement basis in order to specify the requirements that network operators have to fulfill.

Methods for evaluating speech quality are two: Subjective method and Objective. The
“Subjective method” makes use of a listener panel to assess speech quality. Speech quality is
expressed as MOS, which is average speech quality perceived by the members of the panel. The
“Objective method” however replaced the listener panel by an algorithm to compute MOS value
from a speech samples. The Commission expect all Operators to use the “Objective method”
(where equipment available) of measurement because it is in good agreement with “exact”
speech quality, it is automatic and has easily reproducible result. The speech quality can be
transformed by appropriate statistical methods to a scale .
 Table 6.1 : Scale of absolute rating

The table below gives the benchmarking for the speech quality adopted by the Commission using
the scale in Table 6.1 The Voice Quality Impairment of less than2%, means that the total
number of “Bad Speech” Samples (resulting in only noise) throughout entire conversation must
not be up to 2%. This means that the entire conversation must result to predominantly “Excellent
and Good” speech Samples.

Table 6.2 : Benchmark for voice quality

6.5 : M2000

iManager m2000 is the performance measurement and troubleshooting software by Huawei.

• Manager M2000 mobile NE management system (M2000 for short) is a NM system of

Huawei in the mobile communication field. M2000 uses the client/Server structure that is
matured and widely used at present.
• One M2000 uses a set of servers and multiple clients that are connected with the server.
• The server of M2000 runs on Unix platform and supports the function of processing and
saving NE data.
 • The client of M2000 runs on Windows platform. As the interface between the operator
and M2000, it provides graphic interfaces through which the operator can operate and
maintain the accessed NEs.

Fig 6.1 : KPI Report snapshot -I

Fig 6.2 : KPI Report snapshot –II

Fig 6.2 shows a KPI report for such a BTS in which values for Call Setup Success Ratio and
Orig fail lie beyond the accepted limits.
7 : CONCLUSION

Tata Teleservices is a booming industry. Tata Teleservices Limited along with Tata Teleservices
(Maharashtra) Limited have a subscriber base of 36 million customers (as of April 2009) in more
than 5,000 towns. TTSL, which heralded convergence technologies in the Indian telecom sector,
is today the market leader in the fixed wireless telephony market with a customer base of over
2.68 million. With the introduction of CDMA technology the customer base in India has been
increased twice as fast as any competing cellular technology. TTSL has kept itself updated with
the latest technology in use in the telecom sector as well as it has been a pioneer in many
technically new products like TATA photon plus and TATA walky.

But inspite of its ever expanding nature TTSL has been actively supporting the “GO green”
campaign by indulging in e-waste recycling. Thus it can be called a sustainable company.
APPENDIX
Advanced formulas and details of Network KPIs ( key performance indicators )

Immediate Assignment Success Rate

SDCCH Congestion Rate ( overflow )

SDCCH Drop Rate

• TCH Assignment Success Rate

TCH Assignments Success Rate

TCH Attempt Failure Rate Due to No TCH Assignment

TCH Congestion Rate ( Overflow )

TCH Seizure Success Rate

Call Establishment Success Rate

BSS Call Setup Success Rate

REFERENCES
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2. A. Salkintzis, “Radio Resource Management in Cellular Digital Packet Data Networks,”

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3. Wikipedia, “Global System for Mobile communications”, February 2006,

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GSM
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GLOSSARY

Ported out – If a subscriber moves to new service provider, for the old service provider, he is a
“ported out” subscriber.

Ported in - If a subscriber moves to new service provider, for the new service provider, he is a
“ported in” subscriber.

Donor – The service provider left by the subscriber is termed as “donor”.

Recipient – The service provider joined by the subscriber is termed as “recipient”.

CDB – Central Database.

ACQ – All Call Query.

FDD –Frequency Division Duplexing (a way to make a dedicated line full duplex by frequency
segregation.

DS-CDMA–Direct sequence CDMA.