The UMTS Network

Siemens

The UMTS Network

Contents
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Release `99: Network Overview

Release `99 CN: CS Domain
Release `99 CN: Entities common to CS & PS Domain
Release `99: PS Domain
Release `99: UTRAN & UE
Further Evolution: Release 4 & 5
Exercise
Solution

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9
19
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The UMTS Network

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Release `99: Network Overview

UMTS
Network

PSTN /
ISDN

Intra- /
Internet

Enhanced GSM Phase 2+

Core Network
A

Gb

Iu
Co-existence of
GSM & UMTS
network elements

BSS
GSM Base Station
Subsystem

Um
GSM

Uu
GSM / UMTS

GSM UMTS Evolution

saves investment costs
reduces implementation risks

UTRAN
UMTS Terrestrial
Radio Access Network

UMTS

Release `99
Network Overview

Fig. 1

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Release `99: Network Overview

UMTS networks are based on GSM Phase 2+ Core Networks. This approach
safeguards the investments made by today's GSM network operators and reduces
the 3G implementation risks. The UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network UTRAN is
connected to the enhanced Phase 2+ CN via Iu interface. The GSM Base Station
Subsystem BSS and UTRAN can be connected to the same CN. The GSM Mobile
Station MS is connected to the GSM BSS via GSM radio interface Um, the UMTS
User Equipment UE to UTRAN via UMTS radio interface Uu.
An overview of the UMTS network architecture is given in TS 23.002.
The UMTS CN
The enhanced GSM Phase 2+ Core Network consists of a Circuit Switched CS
Domain for speech, video telephony and real-time data transfer and a Packet
Switched PS Domain for Non real-time data transfer. Furthermore, several network
elements are necessary respectively optional for both domains, here determined as
"Entities common to the CS & PS Domain".
An overview of the PS Domain is given in TS 23.060.

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Network Overview

RAN

Radio Access Network

TS 23.002:

CN

Network Architecture

Core Network

External
Networks
GSM BSS

CS Domain

Entities common
to the CS & PS Domain

UE

UTRAN
PS Domain
TS 23.060:
GPRS

Fig. 2

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The UMTS Network

CS Domain
The CS Domain of the UMTS CN consists of the following functions:
l

MSC: Mobile Services switching Center

GMSC: Gateway MSC

SMS-GMSC: Short Message Services Gateway MSC

SMS-IWMSC: Short Message Services Interworking MSC

VLR: Visitor Location Register

TC/IWF: Transcoding & Interworking function

PS Domain
The PS Domain of the UMTS CN consists of the following functions:
l

GGSN: Gateway GPRS Support Node

SGSN: Serving GPRS Support Node

CGF: Charging Gateway Function

Entities common to the CS & PS Domain:

l

HLR: Home Location Register

AuC: Authentication Center

EIR: Equipment Identity Register

CSE: CAMEL Service Environment

UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network UTRAN & UE

The UTRAN consists of the following functions:
RNC: Radio Network Controller
Node B
UE: User Equipment
Remark: This list of UMTS functions is not complete (see TS23.002). Only the "most
important" functions are shown. The listed functions are described in the following.

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TS 23.002
UMTS
Network
GSM BSS

BTS
BTS

UE

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B
(n x BTS)

TC: Transcoding
IWF: Interworking Functions
SM-SC: Short Message Service Centre

R
N
C

CS Domain
MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CSE

EIR

PSTN
GMSC

ISDN

HLR AuC

X.25
SGSN
PS
Domain

GGSN
CGF
SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

CGF: Charging Gateway Function

CSE: CAMEL Service Environment

Fig. 3

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Release `99 CN: CS Domain

UMTS
Network

GSM BSS
BTS
BTS

UE

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B
(n x BTS)

R
N
C

CS Domain

MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CSE

EIR

GMSC

PSTN
ISDN

HLR AuC

X.25
SGSN
PS
Domain

GGSN
CGF
SMS-GMSC

Release `99 CN: SMS-IWMSC

CS Domain

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

Fig. 4

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3G MSC
The Mobile-services Switching Center MSC constitutes the interface between the
radio system and the external fixed networks (ISDN / PSTN). The MSC performs all
necessary functions in order to handle the circuit switched services to and from the
Mobile Stations MS / User Equipment UE.
The MSC is an exchange which performs all the switching and signaling functions for
MSs / UEs located in a geographical area designated as the MSC area. The MSC
area is sub-divided into so-called Location Areas LA. The main difference between a
MSC and an exchange in a fixed network is that the MSC has to take into account
the impact of the subscribers mobility.
Several MSCs may be required to cover a country.
The MSC is connected to other network elements via the following interfaces
(Examples):
l

A-Interface: to the GSM Base Station Controller BSC

B-Interface: to the VLR. The MSC is always associated with a Visitor Location
Register. Therefore, the B-Interface is proprietary.

C-Interface: to the HLR

E-Interface: to other MSCs

F-Interface: to the EIR

Gs-Interface: to the SGSN (for common Mobility Management)

Iu(CS)-Interface: to the RNC

Gateway MSC (GMSC): If a network delivering a call to the PLMN cannot interrogate
the HLR, the call is routed to an MSC. This MSC will interrogate the appropriate HLR
and then route the call to the MSC where the mobile station is located. The MSC
which performs the routing function to the actual location of the MS / UE is called the
Gateway MSC. The choice of which MSCs can act as Gateway MSCs is for the
operator to decide (i.e. all MSCs or some designated MSCs).
Visited MSC (VMSC): For all the MSs / UEs in the MSCs area the serving MSC is
regarded as Visited MSC.

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SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

3G MSC
Mobile services
Switching Center

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

Iu(CS)

GMSC:
GMSC:

VLR

R
N
C

SGSN

MSC:
MSC:

always
alwaysassociated
associatedwith
withVLR
VLR
control
controlofofgeographical
geographicalarea:
area:
MSC
MSCArea
Area==11/ /several
several

Location
LocationArea
AreaLA
LA

MSC
Gs

V(isited)-MSC
V(isited)-MSCfor
forall
allUEs
UEs
ininMSC
MSCArea
Area

PSTN/ISDN
PSTN/ISDNInterface
Interface
Interrogating
InterrogatingHLR
HLR
routing
routingtotoactual
actual
UE
UElocation
location

VLR

IWF/
TC

SM-SC

GMSC

PSTN
ISDN

Main

MSC
EIR

HLR

LA2

LA1
LA3

tasks:
Switching
Handling CS Services
Call Setup / Release
Charging
Interfaces:
A, B, C, E, F,
Gs, Iu(CS)

LA4

MSC Area

Fig. 5

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Short Message Service SMS Gateway MSC (SMS-GMSC)

The SMS-GMSC acts as an interface between an external Short Message Service
Center SMS-SC and the PLMN, to allow short messages to be delivered to MS / UE
from the Service Center.
The choice of which MSCs can act as SMS Gateway MSCs is a network operator
matter (e.g. all MSCs or some designated MSCs).
SMS Interworking MSC (SMS-IWMSC)
The SMS Interworking MSC acts as an interface between the PLMN and a SMS-SC
to allow short messages to be submitted from MS / UE to the SMS-SC.
The choice of which MSCs can act as SMS Interworking MSCs is a network operator
matter (e.g. all MSCs or some designated MSCs).
SMS-GMSC and SMS-IWMSC description can be found in TS 23.002.

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SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC
all or some designated
MSCs can act as
SMS-GMSC/IWMSC
(Network operator
dependent)

TS 23.002

CS
Domain

MSC /
VLR

External
Networks

SMS-GMSC
SMS Gateway MSC

SMS-IWMSC
SMS Interworking MSC

SM-SC

Short Message
Service Center

Gd
PS
SGSN
Domain

Fig. 6

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Visitor Location Register VLR

The Visitor Location Register VLR is responsible to aid the MSC with information on
the subscriber, which are temporarily in the MSC service area. Therefore, in praxis it
is always associated with an MSC.
The VLR request the subscriber profiles of subscriber with activated MS / UE in the
MSC service area from the Home Location Register HLR and stores them
temporarily. Temporarily means as long as the subscriber is not registered in a new
MSC/VLR, even if he deactivated the MS / UE.
Additional to the semi-permanent subscriber data received from the HLR the VLR
stores temporary data, e.g. information on the subscribers current location (the
Location Area), the state of activation (Attached / Detached),...
Furthermore, the VLR is responsible for the initiation of security functions, e.g. the
Authentication procedure, the start of ciphering and the TMSI re-allocation.
Examples of subscriber data in the VLR:
l

MSISDN: Mobile Subscriber ISDN No.

IMSI: International Mobile Subscriber Identity

TMSI: Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity

LMSI: Local Mobile Subscriber Identity

MSRN: Mobile Station Roaming Number

LAI: Location Area Identity

Authentication Parameter

the identity of the SGSN where the MS has been registered

The organization of the subscriber data is outlined in TS 23.008.

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VLR

Main

Visitor Location
Register

VLR
tasks:
for all UEs in MSC Area
storing Subscriber profiles
Mobility Management
storing Location Information
controlling
Security Features*

VLR as MSCs Data Base:

Subscriber Profile,
e.g. IMSI, MSISDN,
Services (TS, BS, SS),..

Temporary Subscriber Data

e.g. LMSI, TMSI, MSRN,
Security Parameter,
Location Information,
IMSI attach/detach,..

B
MSC

VLR
* e.g. Authentication, Authorization,
Cipher & Integrity Start

Location
LocationUpdates
Updates
Subscriber
SubscriberProfiles
Profiles
VLR
VLR
Security
SecurityParameter
Parameter
(via
(viaHLR
HLRVLR)
VLR)

Interrogation
Interrogation

(MSRN
(MSRNvia
viaHLR
HLRtotoGMSC)
GMSC)

TS: Tele Services

BS: Bearer Services
SS: Supplementary Services
MSRN: Mobile Station Roaming Number

D
HLR

AuC

IMSI: International Mobile Subscriber Identity

LMSI: Local Mobile Subscriber Identity
TMSI: Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity

Fig. 7

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Transcoding TC function
The Transcoding TC function is used to perform conversion between standard ISDN
64 kbit/s speech transmission and the UMTS Adaptive Multi-Rate AMR speech codec
(Specs: 26-series).
The AMR speech coder is a single integrated speech codec with eight source rates
from 4.75 kbit/s to 12.2 kbit/s, and a low rate background noise encoding mode. The
speech coder is capable of switching its bit-rate every 20 ms speech frame upon
command (TS 26.071).
Different to GSM, in UMTS the Transcoding function is not part of the Radio Access
Network RAN. It has been defined as part of the UMTS Core Network CN.
Some optimization procedures allow it to be passed through, without transcoding, in
the case of UE to UE communication for example, when double-transcoding would
be performed for nothing.
Interworking Function IWF
The "classical" Core Network CN interfaces (e.g. A G) are all Time Division
Multiplexed TDM based (E1/T1). Different to this, The Iu interface between UTRAN
and the UMTS CN is ATM-based. An Interworking Function IWF is necessary for
conversion between TDM-based and ATM-based interfaces.
Remark: IWF and TC function can be stand-alone network elements or be integrated
into the UMTS MSC, depending on the manufacturers / network operators decision /
demands.

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TC
Transcoding
&

IWF
InterWorking Function

B
S
C

T
R
A
U

RAN
Radio Access
Network

Iu(CS)

VLR
B
E

MSC

IWF/

R
N
C

BlaBla
Bla

CN
Core Network

TC

C
Gs

IWF

TC

Interworking: TDM ATM

all classical CN-Interfaces (A-G):
TDM based (E1/T1 PCM30/PCM24)
Iu(CS): ATM based

BlaBla
Bla

Transcoding
4.75 12.2 kbit/s
AMR: Adaptive MultiRate

UTRAN

CN function in UMTS:
part of MSC or standalone N.E.
Conversion of Speech Data (CN RAN):
using AMR speech codec
CN: 64 kbit/s (ISDN)
RAN: 4.75 12.2 kbit/s (AMR)

64 kbit/s (ISDN)

CN

Fig. 8

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The UMTS Network

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Release `99 CN: Entities common to CS &

PS Domain
UMTS
Network

GSM BSS
BTS
BTS

UE

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B
(n x BTS)

CS Domain

MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CSE

EIR

GMSC

PSTN
ISDN

HLR AuC

X.25
SGSN
PS
Domain

R
N
Release `99 CN:
C
Entities common
to CS & PS Domain

GGSN
CGF
SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

Fig. 9

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Home Location Register HLR

The HLR is a database in charge of the management of mobile subscribers There
may be one or more HLRs in a GSM PLMN.
The HLR is always associated with an Authentication Center AC (proprietary
interface). It participates in different procedures, for e.g.:
l

It sends all necessary data to the VLR.

It supports the call setup in case of Mobile Terminating Calls MTC by sending
routing information to the Gateway MSC (Interrogation).

It transmits the security parameters from AuC to VLR on request

An HLR contains different semi-permanent mobile subscriber data, e.g.:

l

IMSI: International Mobile Subscriber Identity

MSISDN: Mobile Station International ISDN number

Packet Data Protocol (PDP) address(es), e.g. IP address

Services: Bearer Services BS, Tele Services TS, Supplementary Services SS

a list of all the group IDs a service subscriber is entitled to use to establish voice
group or broadcast calls

CAMEL Subscription Information(s)

Service Restrictions (e.g. roaming limitations)

Additionally, the HLR contains different temporary information of the mobile

subscriber, e.g.:
l

VLR and SGSN addresses

Mobile Station Roaming Number MSRN

SMS flags

The organization of the subscriber data is outlined in GSM 23.008.

Authentication Center AuC
The AuC is responsible to store the secret Keys of the subscribers and the security
algorithm, which are necessary for the generation of the GSM and UMTS security
parameters. On request of the VLR respectively the SGSN the AuC generates the
security parameters. They are delivered via HLR to VLR / SGSN to enable
Authentication, Ciphering and Integrity Check.
The AuC is always associated with an HLR (communication via a proprietary
interface).

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HLR

AuC

Home Location Register

Authentication Center

Subscriber Registration
Storing/Management
subscriber profiles
Deliver profiles to VLR/SGSN
Storing Location Information
(VLR / SGSN)
MTC: Deliver Routing
information to GMSC / GGSN
Associated with AuC

CS Domain
MSC /
VLR

GMSC

HLR
Gr
SGSN

Storing secret Keys

(counterpart: USIM) &
Security Algorithm
Generating Security Parameter
(GSM: Triples; UMTS: Quintets)
Deliver Parameter to VLR /
SGSN (via HLR)
Associated with HLR

AuC
Gc
GGSN

PS Domain
Subscriber data (Examples):
Semi-permanent Data: MSISDN, IMSI, Services
(BS, TS, SS), QoS Profile, CSI, Service Restrictions,..
Temporary Data: VLR / SGSN address,
MS Non-Reachable flag, MSRN, SMS flags,..

BS: Bearer Service

TS: Tele Service
SS: Supplementary Service
CSI: CAMEL Subscription Information
QoS: Quality of Service
IMSI: International Mobile Subscriber Identity
MSISDN: Mobile Station ISDN Number
MSRN: Mobile Station Roaming Number

Fig. 10

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Equipment Identity Register EIR

The EIR is an optional feature in GSM and UMTS. It has been defined to enable theft
prophylaxis. Stolen or non-valid Mobile Equipment ME can be blocked from further
usage.
The Equipment Identity Register EIR is the logical entity, which is responsible for
storing in the network the International Mobile Equipment Identities IMEIs (TS
23.002). An IMEI clearly identifies a unique Mobile Equipment ME and contains
information about the place of manufacture, device type and the serial number of the
equipment.
The Mobile Equipment ME is classified as "white listed", "grey listed", "black listed" or
it may be unknown as specified in TS 22.016 and TS 29.002.
The EIR performs IMEI Checks on VLR respectively SGSN request to check whether
the ME is stolen or non-valid.
The EIR is connected to:

22

the SGSN via Gf interface

the VLR via F interface

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EIR
Equipment Identity Register

CS Domain
MSC /
VLR

Storing IMEIs
(counterpart: ME)
on White / Gray / Black List
Performing IMEI Check
on VLR / SGSN request
optional network function

EIR
Gf
SGSN

IMEI
PS Domain

International
Mobile station
Equipment
Identity

Fig. 11

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CAMEL Service Environment CSE

For the introduction of CAMEL services, some network elements have to be
enhanced and new functional entities have to be introduced (TS 23.078):

24

GSM Service Control Function gsmSCF: functional entity that contains the
CAMEL service logic to implement Operator-Specific Services OSS. It interfaces
e.g. with the gsmSSF, the gprsSSF and the HLR.

GSM Service Switching Function gsmSSF: functional entity that interfaces the
MSC/GMSC to the gsmSCF. The concept of the gsmSSF is derived from the IN
SSF, but uses different triggering mechanisms because of the nature of the mobile
network

GPRS Service Switching Function gprsSSF: functional entity that interfaces the
SGSN to the gsmSCF.

Home Location Register HLR: for subscribers requiring CAMEL support, the
HLR stores different types of CAMEL Subscriber Information CSI (e.g. O-CSI for
Mobile Originating Calls MOCs, T-CSI for Mobile Terminating Calls MTCs). The OCSI is sent to the VLR at Location Update, on data restoration or if the O-CSI is
updated by administrative action. The O/T-CSI is sent to the GMSC when the HLR
responds to a request for routing information.

MSC/VLR or SGSN: VLR or SGSN store the different CSI information as part of
the subscriber data for subscribers roaming in the MSC/VLR or SGSN area. MSC
or SGSN monitor the call states and communicate (internally) with the gsmSSF for
further proceeding.

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GSM Service Switching Function

CSE

interfaces MSC/VLR to gsmSCF

derived from IN SSF

CAMEL Service
Environment

CS
Domain

GSM Service
Control Function:

gsm

SSF
MSC /
VLR

gsm

SSF
E

gsm

contains CAMEL
service logic for
Operator-Specific
Services

HLR AuC

SCF

SGSN
PS
Domain

GMSC

Gn

stores CAMEL
Subscription
Information CSI

GGSN

gprs

SSF

MSC/VLR
MSC/VLR&&SGSN:
SGSN:
store
storeCSI
CSIas
aspart
partofof
subscriber
subscriberprofile
profile

GPRS Service Switching Function

interfaces SGSN to gsmSCF

Fig. 12

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CAMEL Protocols & Interfaces

The Mobile Application Part MAP and the CAMEL Application Part CAP (TS 29.078)
are used on the different interfaces (TS 23.078) applicable to CAMEL:

26

HLR - VLR interface (D-Interface): On this interface the MAP is used to send the
CAMEL related subscriber data to the VPLMN and for provision of Mobile Station
Roaming Numbers MSRN. The interface is also used to retrieve subscriber status
and location information of the mobile subscriber or to indicate suppression of
announcement for a CAMEL service.

GMSC - HLR interface (C-Interface): This interface is used at terminating calls to

exchange routing information, subscriber status, location information, subscription
information and suppression of announcements. The O/T-CSI that is passed to the
IPLMN is sent over this interface using the MAP.

SGSN / MSC or GMSC gprsSSF / gsmSSF interface: These are internal

interfaces. These interfaces are described in the specification to make it easier to
understand the handling of Detection Points DPs.

gprsSSF / gsmSSF - gsmSCF interface (CAP Interfaces): On these interfaces the

CAP is used by the gsmSCF to control a call in a certain gprsSSF / gsmSSF.

gsmSCF - HLR interface (CAP Interface): On this interface the MAP is used by the
gsmSCF to request information from the HLR. As a network operator option the
HLR may refuse to provide the information requested by the gsmSCF.

GMSC - MSC interface (E-Interface): On this interface the MAP is used to transfer
control of a call from a VMSC back to a GMSC for optimal routing.

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CAMEL
Data transfer

Protocols &
Interfaces

Signalling

O-CSI
T-CSI

HLR

gsmSCF

HPLMN
MAP

TS 23.078,
29.078

MAP

CAP

CSE

Interfaces
gsmSSF

gprsSSF

MSC/VLR

SGSN
gsmSSF

CSE: CAMEL Service Environment

gsmSSF: GSM Service Switching Function
gsmSCF: GSM Service Control Function
CAP: CAMEL Application Part
MAP: Mobile Application Part
O-CSI: CAMEL Subscription Information (MOC)
T-CSI: CAMEL Subscription Information (MTC)

UE

MSC/VLR

VPLMN

Fig. 13

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Release `99: PS Domain

UMTS
Network

GSM BSS
BTS
BTS

UE

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B
(n x BTS)

R
N
C

CS Domain

MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CSE

EIR

GMSC

PSTN
ISDN

HLR AuC

X.25
SGSN
PS
Domain

GGSN
CGF
SMS-GMSC

Release `99 CN: SMS-IWMSC

PS Domain

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

Fig. 14

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PS Domain - Main Concept

The PS domain uses a packet-mode technique to transfer high-speed and low-speed
data and signaling in an efficient manner. The PS domain optimizes the use of
network and radio resources. Strict separation between the radio subsystem and
network subsystem is maintained, allowing the network subsystem to be reused with
other radio access technologies. (TS 23.060)

Gateway GPRS Support Node GGSN

The GGSN is the first point of Packet Data Network PDN interconnection with a GSM
/ UMTS PLMN (i.e. it supports the Gi interface). GGSN functionality is common for
GSM and UMTS.
The Gateway GPRS Support Node GGSN provides interworking with external
Packet-switched Data Networks PDNs and it is connected with SGSNs via an IPbased backbone network (Gn interface). When the SGSN and the GGSN are in
different PLMNs, they are interconnected via the Gp interface. The Gp interface uses
the same protocols as the Gn interface. Additional security features are necessary.
The GGSN is the node that is accessed by the PDN due to evaluation of the Packet
Data Protocol PDP address. It contains routing information for PS-attached users.
The routing information is used to tunnel packet data to the MS / UE's current point of
attachment, i.e., the Serving GPRS Support Node SGSN. The GGSN may request
location information from the HLR via the optional Gc interface.
Furthermore, the GGSN is responsible for message screening and it is collecting
charging data. The GGSN forwards the charging data via Charging Gateway
Functionality CGF (Ga interface) to the Billing Center.
The SGSN and GGSN functionalities may be combined in the same physical node, or
they may reside in different physical nodes.

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GGSN
Gateway GPRS
Support Node

TS 23.060

Interworking PLMN PDN (Gi)

Screening / Filtering
Storing Routing Information (current SGSN)
Requesting Location Information from HLR
(Gc optional; for MTC)
Routing Packets SGSN (Gn)
Collecting Charging Data & forwarding
to CGF (Ga)

HLR AuC

Gc
SGSN

Gn
IP-based
Backbone
Network

Gp

SGSN
PS
Domain

other
PLMN

SGSN

X.25

GGSN

Gi

IP

Ga
CGF

Billing
System

External
Networks

Fig. 15

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The UMTS Network

Serving GPRS Support Node SGSN

The Serving GPRS Support Node SGSN is responsible to provide service for all
activated MS / UE in a certain geographical area, the so-called SGSN service area.
The SGSN service area is subdivided into different Routing Area RA (a sub-set of the
Location Area LA). A Routing Area consists of one or several cells.
The SGSN keeps track of the location of an individual MS / UE and stores it location
(the Routing Area). It is responsible for the MS / UE Mobility Management (Location
Updates, Attach, Paging,..). Furthermore, the SGSN performs security functions and
access control.
The SGSN pulls the subscriber profiles via Gr interface from the HLR and stores it as
long as the subscriber has not been registered in another SGSN.
It is signaling with MS / UE and GGSN to set up PDP Contexts to transmit packet
data from MS / UE via RNC, SGSN and GGSN to external PDNs.
It is transmitting SMS via SMS IWF-/G-MSC (Gd interface) to the SM-SC.
It is controlling the QoS to be guaranteed for the subscribers service.
The SGSN also interfaces via the GPRS Service Switching Function gprsSSF with
the GSM Service Control Function gsmSCF for optional CAMEL session and cost
control service support.
The SGSN is connected to the GSM Base Station Subsystem BSS through the Gb
interface and/or to the UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network UTRAN through the
Iu interface.
It is interfaced with the MSC/VLR via Gs interface (optional) for Common Mobility
Management. E.g. the SGSN may receive paging requests from the MSC/VLR via
the Gs interface.
To provide Roaming it is connected via Gn / Gp (into other PLMNs) interface to other
SGSNs. The Gp interface provides the functionality of the Gn interface, plus security
functionality required for inter-PLMN communication. The security functionality is
based on mutual agreements between operators.
The SGSN is collecting charging data and transmitting them via Ga interface to the
Charging Gateway Function CGF.
The SGSN and GGSN functionalities may be combined in the same physical node, or
they may reside in different physical nodes.

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SGSN

RA
2
LA RA
1
RA
3

Serving GPRS
Support Node

RA
4
RA
6

SGSN area

GSM BSS
Gb

CSE

EIR

CAP

Gs Gr

SGSN
RNC

RA
7

MSC /
VLR
Gs

TS 23.060

BSC

RA
5

Iu(PS)

Serving all UEs in SGSN area =

1 / several Routing Area(s) RA
Storing subscriber profiles
(requested from HLR)
Mobility Management, e.g
Update Location, Attach, Paging,..
Security & Access Control:
Authentication, Cipher start, IMEI Check...
Routing / Traffic-Management
Collecting charging data

SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

HLR AuC

Gd
Gn
IP-based
Backbone
Network

Gp
SGSN

UTRAN

PS
Domain

other
PLMN

GGSN
Ga
CGF

SGSN

Fig. 16

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The UMTS Network

Charging Gateway Functionality CGF

Charging in GSM / UMTS should be flexible and allow to bill according to the amount
of data transferred, the QoS supported, and the duration of the connection. The
GGSNs and SGSNs are collecting the charging data.
The Charging Gateway Functionality CGF provides a mechanism to transfer charging
information from the SGSN and GGSN nodes to the network operator's chosen
Billing Systems BS.
The Charging Gateway concept enables an operator to have just one logical interface
between the CGF and the BS. The CGF may be supported in one of the following
ways:
l

-as a centralized separate Network Element, i.e. the Charging Gateway CG

-as a distributed functionality resident in the SGSNs and GGSNs.

Support of the centralized or distributed CGF in a network is implementation

dependent, and subject to vendor/manufacturer agreement. Regardless of the way in
which the CGF is supported in the network, the functionality of the CGF is similar.
The main functions of the CGF are:
l

-the collection of GPRS Charging Data Records CDRs from the GPRS nodes
generating CDRs;

-intermediate CDR storage buffering;

-the transfer of the CDR data to the Billing Systems BS

The CGF acts as storage buffer for real-time CDR collection. It provides the CDR
data to the BS.
Details of the Charging Gateway Functionality, the principles and transmission of
CDRs and the protocol architecture of the Ga interface are given in TS 32.015.

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The UMTS Network

CGF
Charging Gateway
Functionality

TS 23.060
& 32.015

SGSN
PS
Domain
External
Networks

Gn

Ga

GGSN
Ga

CGF

TS32.015:
TS32.015:
Charging
Charging&&Billing
Billing
for
the
for thePS
PSDomain
Domain

collect CDRs from SGSNs & GGSNs

intermediate CDR storage buffering
CDR data transfer to the BS

Billing
System BS

The CGF can:

GSNs
GSN

CGF

Charging
Gateway
CG

BS

BS

reside in a separate N.E.:

Charging Gateway CG

be integrated
in the GSNs

CDR: Charging Data Record

N.E.: Network Element

Fig. 17

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The UMTS Network

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The UMTS Network

Release `99: UTRAN & UE

UMTS
Network

GSM BSS
BTS
BTS

UE

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B
(n x BTS)

R
N
C

CS Domain

MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CSE

EIR

GMSC

PSTN
ISDN

HLR AuC

X.25
SGSN
PS
Domain

Release `99:
UTRAN & UE

GGSN
CGF
SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

Fig. 18

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The UMTS Network

Radio Network Controller RNC

The UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network UTRAN is sub-divided into Radio
Network Subsystems RNS. The Radio Network Controller RNC is the central
controlling unit of a RNS. It is controlling itself and all the Node Bs of the RNS.
The RNC is connected via the following ATM based interfaces:
l

Iub interface: to the connected Node Bs

Iur interface: to neighboring RNCs

Iu interface: to the Core Network CN

Due to different protocol stacks, the Iu interface can be sub-divided into an Iu(ps)
interface and an Iu(cs) interface.
The Iu(ps) interface is used for data and signaling transmission to the PS Domain of
the CN, the Iu(cs) interface is used for data exchange with the CS Domain.
The main task of the RNC is to perform Radio Resource Management RRM for all
UEs in its service area. Therefore, it can be compared to the GSM BSC. Different to
the GSM BSC, it is 100% autonomously responsible for all RRM decisions.
RRM means to be that the RNC is responsible for signaling with the UEs via Radio
Resource Control RRC protocol, it is deciding about the allocation of resources,
Handover to other cells and release of resources,...
The RNC is holding the RRC connection to the UEs as long as data have to be
transmitted.
It is storing the UEs location information to transmit the data to the right location. The
location information can be requested by the CN for Location Based Services.
It is responsible for reliable transmission over the radio interface, performing
Backward Error Correction in acknowledged mode.
It is responsible for Ciphering / De-Ciphering and Integrity Check.
And it is responsible for many more WCDMA specific aspects shown in the following
chapters and TS 25.3xx and 25.4xx series.

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The UMTS Network

RNC

100% autonomously RRM

(e.g. Radio Resource Control, Access Control,
Admission Control, Handover Control,)

Radio Network
Controller

MSC /
VLR

CS
Domain

(De-)Ciphering & BEC (Layer 2 tasks)

storing UEs location information
RNS-Control (RNC & Node Bs)
ATM Switching
(Iu, Iur & Iub: ATM Interfaces)

SGSN

WCDMA specific tasks

IWF/ TC

Iu(CS)
RNS
Radio
Network
Sub
system

Iu(PS)

UTRAN
Iur

RNC

RNC

Radio Network
Controller

Iub
Node
B

PS
Domain

Iub
Node
B

Node
B

Node
B

Uu
UE

Fig. 19

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The UMTS Network

Node B
One or more Node B's are controlled and addressed by an RNC. A Node B is a
physical unit for implementation of the UMTS radio interface. It is converting the
physical transmission of the data from fixed network transmission (ATM based) to
WCDMA transmission.
As a central transmission and reception site, it serves one or more UMTS cells. It is
serving one UMTS cell in case of an omni cell with 360 service or, for example, 2, 3
or 6 sector cells with 180, 120 and 60 service respectively.
The Node B is connected:
l

via Iub interface to its controlling RNC

via Uu interface to the UEs

To prepare the data for reliable transmission over the air interface Uu, the Node B
performs many WCDMA specific aspects, which are shown in the following chapters
and in the TS 25.3xx and 25.4xx series.

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The UMTS Network

Support of 1or several cells

Node B

WCDMA Transmission

RNS
Radio
Network
Sub
system

RNC

ATM Termination
Forward Error Correction FEC
Radio Interface Measurements
(Quality & Strength)

U
T
R
A
N

RNC

Radio Network
Controller

Iub
Node
B

Node
B

Node
B

Node
B

Uu
UE

Sector-Cell
Omni-Cell

Node
B

Sector-Cell

Node
B

Sector-Cell

Fig. 20

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The UMTS Network

User Equipment UE
The User Equipment UE is responsible for similar functions as the GSM Mobiles
Station MS, i.e. it is a device allowing a user access to network services.
It consists of the:
l

Mobile Equipment ME, which means to be the Hardware and Software for
WCDMA air interface transmission. The ME is identified by an International Mobile
Equipment Identity IMEI.

UMTS Subscriber Identity Module USIM, which contains data and procedures,
which unambiguously and securely identify itself. These functions are typically
embedded in a stand-alone smart card. This device is associated to a given user
(subscriber license), and as such allows to identify this user regardless of the ME
he uses. The USIM stores the personal identities (e.g. IMSI, MSISDN, PIN),
security algorithm (for e.g. Ciphering, Authentication), the personal phone book,
the USIM Application Toolkit USAT (TS 22.038, 31.111) and many more
information.

The basic functions of the UE are given in the TS TS 23.101. More detailed
descriptions are given in the TS 31 series.

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UE
User Equipment
TS 23.101 &
31series

MSC/VLR
Node
B

RNC
SGSN

Uu

UE = ME + USIM

USIM
UMTS Subscriber
Identity Module

ME
Mobile Equipment

HW & SW for WCDMA

Radio Transmission
Man-Maschine-Interface MMI

Subscriber license
Personal Identities
(e.g.MSISDN, IMSI, TMSI, PIN,...)

Security Algorithm & Keys

(for Authentication, Ciphering,..)

Personal phone book

USIM Application Toolkit
USAT
TS 31.1xx
series

Fig. 21

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The UMTS Network

UMTS Network Summary (Release `99)

The UMTS PLMN consists of an UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network UTRAN,
The User Equipments UE and an enhanced GSM Phase 2+ Core Network CN.
The Core Network consists of a Circuit Switched CS Domain for speech, video
telephony and real-time data transfer, a Packet Switched PS Domain for Non realtime data transfer and Entities common to the CS & PS Domain.
The CS Domain of the UMTS CN consists of the following functions:
l

MSC: Mobile Services switching Center

GMSC: Gateway MSC

SMS-IW-/G-MSC: Short Message Services Interworking-/Gateway-MSC

VLR: Visitor Location Register

TC/IWF: Transcoding & Interworking function

The PS Domain of the UMTS CN consists of the following functions:

l

GGSN: Gateway GPRS Support Node

SGSN: Serving GPRS Support Node

CGF: Charging Gateway Function

Entities common to the CS & PS Domain:

l

HLR: Home Location Register

AuC: Authentication Center

EIR: Equipment Identity Register

CSE: CAMEL Service Environment

The UTRAN consists of the following functions:

l

RNC: Radio Network Controller

Node B

The UE consists of the following functions

l

ME: Mobile Equipment

USIM: UMTS Subscriber Identity Module

Remark: This list of UMTS functions is not complete. Only the "most important"
functions are shown. A detailed overview is given in TS 23.002.

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UMTS Network
Summary
(Rel. `99)

GSM BSS

BTS
Abis
Um
Uu

UE

BTS

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

Iur

(n x BTS)

R
N
C

MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CAP

Gb

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
Iub N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B

CS Domain

Iu(CS)

CAP

Iu(PS)

EIR
Gf

SGSN

PS
Domain

HLR AuC

Gr
Gn

X.25

Gc

GGSN
Ga

Gd

ISDN

C/D

CSE

GMSC

PSTN

Gi

CGF

SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

Fig. 22

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The UMTS Network

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The UMTS Network

Further Evolution: Release 4 & 5

PSTN /
ISDN

UMTS
Network

Intra- /
Internet

UMTS CN
GERAN

Co-existence of
GSM & UMTS
network elements

Further Evolution
Release 4 & 5

UTRAN

GERAN: GSM/EDGE Radio Access Network

Fig. 23

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The UMTS Network

3G modularity and further options

In 3G networks, the functions of the Core Network CN and the Radio Access Network
RAN will be strictly separated. This separation will allow modularity in the
composition of networks. The objective is to be able to combine any 3G CN with any
3G RAN. In addition, technical enhancements and upgrades of individual modules
will be able to be introduced more easily, quicker and at less expensively due to the
separation of functions.
Core Network CN options
In the initial phase of 3G, the different RANs are based on two different CN platforms:
These are the GSM CN platform and the IS-41 platform. The different protocol
architecture has been harmonized to enable the demanded modularity.
l

The IS-41 CN has been used recently as platform for AMPS, D-AMPS and IS-95.

The GSM CN has been used for the GSM BSS only.

Pure IP CN solutions have been developed by the 3G.IP Forum / IETF. These
ideas are incorporated now in UMTS Release 4 and 5 as additional CN options for
enhanced 3G networks.

Radio Access Network RAN options

Different options for 3G RAN's have been developed and will be developed in 3G
respectively for enhanced 3.5G networks.

48

EDGE Classic / Compact is the 3G enhancements for GSM and D-AMPS

UMTS includes the UTRA FDD and TDD mode, respectively from Release 4 on,
two TDD modes (one with a High Chip Rate HCR and one with a Low Chip Rate
LCR).

MC-CMDA is used as IS-95 successor

Different 3G proposals for MSS's

3.5G enhancements of 3G systems toward higher data rates might be Wireless

Local Loop WLL or Mobile Broadband Systems MBS

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The UMTS Network

3G modularity
& future options

3G RAN
EDGE

3G
Core
Network

UTRA TDD HCR

Iu
UTRA TDD LCR
UTRA FDD

e.g.
enhanced
GSM / IS-41,
or
R`4, R`5
UMTS CN

MC- CDMA
3G-MSS

strict separation
CN - RAN tasks
flexibility in 3G

Hiperlan-2,
MBS,..

Fig. 24

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The UMTS Network

UMTS Release 4 CN
The UMTS CN CS domain is a central aspect of Release 4 modifications (TS
23.002). The intention of these modifications is a separation of the call control from
the transport user the user data.
In UMTS Release 4, the (G)MSC/VLR functions split into two different entities:
l

MSC Server: The MSC Server is responsible for e.g. Call Control CC and Mobility
Management MM. It stores temporarily the subscribers data and takes over the
"VLR functionality". It is interfacing and translating the user-network signaling (TS
24.008) and the network-network signaling and it is controlling one/several
MGW(s) via Mc interface. Furthermore, it is collecting charging data (Call Data
Records CDRs). As Gateway MSC Server, it is responsible for HLR interrogation.

Media Gateway MGW: The MGW is responsible for bearer control and
transmission resource management (e.g. QoS guarantee). It is responsible for the
conversion of the data formats from CN internal, i.e. Nb interface (IP, ATM,) to
either Iu interface (ATM based) or external CS ISDN/PSTN networks. Additionally,
the TC function is allocated to the MGWs interfacing Iu.

New Interfaces

50

Nc: between MSC Server and (G)MSC Server for Bearer-Independent Call Control
BICC.

Mc: between CS-MGW and (G)MSC Server to separate between call control and
bearer control. The ITU standard H.248 respectively its IETF standard equivalent
Media Gateway Control MEGACO is used on Mc.

Nb: between MGWs. Different options are possible on Nb for user data transfer
and bearer control signaling (e.g. ATM, IP).

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UMTS CN R`4
CS Domain

Applications and Services

CAP

CAP

MSC
Server
Iu

(G-)MSC Server:

Call Control
Level

HLR

PS
PSDomain
Domain
unchanged
unchanged
compared
comparedto
toR`99
R`99

R`4
TS 23.002

GMSC
Server

Nc (e.g. BICC)

Mc

Call Control
Mobility Management
MGW Control
VLR functionality
CDRs
(HLR-Interrogation)

Mc (H.248/MEGACO)

Bearer Level

GERAN
A

UTRAN

Iu

CSMGW

Nb (e.g. ATM, IP)

CSMGW

PSTN/
ISDN

MGW:
Bearer Control
CDR: Call Data Records
BICC: Bearer Independent Call Control
MGW: Media Gateway

Transmission Resource Management

Data Format Conversion
Transcoding

MEGACO: IETF Media Gateway Control protocol

H.248: ITU protocol for Media Gateway Control

Fig. 25

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The UMTS Network

UMTS Release 5 CN
In Release 5, it should be possible to transmit all data only via one PS domain (the
so-called "All IP CN"). This PS domain can be split up logically into the GPRS CN
with its well known network elements and an IP Multimedia Subsystem IMS, which is
added to the GPRS CN like an external PDN (i.e. via Gi interface). Currently (late
2001) not all Release 5 network elements and functions are defined precisely.
For downward-compatibility reasons to GSM and UMTS Rel. `99 and Rel. `4 it might
be necessary, to support additionally a CS domain.
Here some central Release 5 aspects / functions:
l

Home Subscriber Server HSS: The HSS is used for mobility related aspects,
very similar to the "classical" HLR (storing subscription and routing information).

Media Gateway MGW: The MGW ensures interoperability and interworking

between an All IP CN and the external fixed CS networks PSTN or ISDN. The
MGW enables conversion from CS data transmission, e.g. voice transmission, to
PS data transmission, e.g. Voice over IP VoIP. Echo cancellation and Transcoding
functionality will take place in the MGW. The MGWs are connected via Gi interface
towards the GGSNs.

Media Gateway Control Function MGCF: The MGCF are used e.g. for MGW
control, Call Control and Signaling Protocol Conversion from external SS7 to
internal Session Initiation Protocol SIP.

Call State Control Function CSCF: The CSCF are responsible e.g. for Session
Flow Handling and Application Coordination. They are interfacing the IN /
Application Server/ IN and they are responsible to collect charging data (Charging
Data Records CDRs).

This description of Release 5 is regarded as a very first overview, giving an idea on

the future UMTS options. It is not complete and needs to be extended in additional
courses.

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CSCF:

UMTS CN R`5
IMS & PS Domain

Intelligent & Application Servers

CSE

WAP

Session Flow Handling

Application Coordination
interfaces IN/Application
Servers
CDR`s

HSS:
similar HLR

UTRAN
Uu
UE
(USIM)

Node
B

CSCF
HSS

R
Iub

Node
B

R
N
C

MGW

ISDN

IP R
Backbone
R

Iur Iu
SGSN
R
Node
N
B
Iub C

R
GGSN Gi

other
PLMN

IP
X.25

MGCF:
MGW control

HSS: Home Subscriber Server

MGW: Media Gateway
MGCF: Media Gateway Control Function
SIP: Session Initiation Protocol

PSTN

MGCF

Call Control
Signalling Protocol
Conversion (SS7 to SIP)

R`5
TS 23.002
IMS: IP Multimedia Subsystem
CSCF: Call State Control Function
R: IP Router/Switch

Fig. 26

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54

The UMTS Network

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The UMTS Network

Siemens

Exercise

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56

The UMTS Network

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The UMTS Network

Exercise
Title:

UMTS Network

Objectives:
Pre-requisite:

The participant will learn the most important UMTS network

elements and interfaces.
none

Task
Please answer the following questions!

Query
1. Which of the following elements are not part of the UMTS network:

HLR/AC
TRAU
MSC
EIR
BSC
OMC
SMS-SC
GGSN

2. What are the main tasks of a 3G MSC:

Switching of CS traffic
Call Setup & Release
Storing the User Equipments location
Charging
Generating Security Parameter
Serving all User Equipments of one Location Area

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3. Speech compression/decompression in UMTS:

is performed in the User Equipment and Radio Access Network

is performed in the User Equipment and Core Network
uses Full Rate, Half Rate and Enhanced Full Rate Speech codec
uses Adaptive Multirate AMR speech codec
is used in every speech connection
is only used in case of overload at the air interface

4. Which of the following information is wrong?

the VLR and SGSN are storing location information

the HLR and AuC are always associated
the security parameter generated by the AuC are the same as in GSM
there is always one HLR in a PLMN to store all subscribers profiles
the EIR can be used to check the identity of the subscriber

5. To implement CAMEL services the following network functions are used:

58

the GSM Service Control Function

the GPRS Service Control Function
the CAMEL Central Memory Function
the GSM Service Switching Function
the GPRS Service Switching Functions
the CAMEL Subscription Information data Unit

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Siemens

6. CAMEL

is helpful for the Virtual Home Environment VHE concept

will be used also for PS services in UMTS
uses the protocol CAP
is interacting with the UMTS Mobility Management to provide Location Based
Services
information are stored in HLR, gsmSCF and EIR

7. Which of the following properties are GPRS (Packet Switched) advantages?

volume dependent charging

Video telephony support
support of extended length SMS
non-proprietary IN-services
direct access towards Packet Data Networks
resource efficient data transport

8. Central 3G SGSN tasks are:

Mobility Management for PS data user

Radio Resource Management for PS data user
Session Management
temporary storage of PS subscriber profiles
storing the users current location, i.e. his cell
controlling the connected RNC's, i.e. O&M support
initiating of Authentication and Authorization
collecting charging data

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The UMTS Network

9. The following network functions are necessary for PS data transmission:

SGSN
GGSN
HLR
EIR
gprsSSF
RNC
Node B
UE

10. The RNC is responsible for:

Session Management SM
Radio Resource Management RRM
RNS control
Handover Decision
Transcoding and Rate Adaptation

11. Which of the following network elements is not part of UTRAN?

60

RNC
Node B
TRAU
IWF

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12. Please introduce the name of the interfaces into the following PLMN Summary:

UMTS Network
Summary
(Rel. `99)

GSM BSS

BTS
Abis
Um
Uu

UE

BTS

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

Iur

(n x BTS)

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R
N
C

MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CAP

Gb

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
Iub N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B

CS Domain
A

Iu(CS)

CAP

Iu(PS)

EIR
Gf

SGSN

PS
Domain

HLR AuC

Gr
Gn

X.25

Gc

GGSN
Ga

Gd

ISDN

C/D

CSE

GMSC

PSTN

Gi

CGF

SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

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13. Which of the following interfaces is NOT defined as an open interface?

Uu interface
Iu interface
Iur interface
Abis interface
Asub interface
Iub interface
A interface
AuC-HLR interface

14. What is different between GSM Phase 2+ and UMTS CN?

Transcoding is part of the CN functions in UMTS

Real Time data transfer is possible in the UMTS PS domain
The UMTS CN does not participate in Radio Resource Management
The Mobility Management cycles differ in GSM and UMTS
The UMTS security mechanism is enhanced compared to GSM.
nothing has changed to prevent changes in the hardware / reduce costs for
UMTS introduction

15. Which of the following information is wrong?

62

Release 4 CN are pure IP CN solutions

Release 4 defines bearer-independent call control
Release 4 CN allows to use IP or ATM for data transfer
Release 5 introduces the IP Multimedia Subsystem & Voice over IP
Release 5 introduces an "All IP Core Network" and All "IP Radio Access
Network"
Release 5 enhances the data rates towards 4 Mbit/s defining a new modulation
principle option

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The UMTS Network

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16. Which of the following network elements is new in Release 5:

Media Gateway MGW

Media Gateway Control Function MGCF
Call State Control Function CSCF
MSC Server
Home Subscriber Server HSS
Gateway GPRS Support Node GGSN

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The UMTS Network

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Solution

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The UMTS Network

Solution
Title:

UMTS Network

Objectives:
Pre-requisite:

The participant will learn the most important UMTS network

elements and interfaces
none

Task
In the following section, there are the answers to the exercises.

Query
1. Which of the following elements are not part of the UMTS network:

HLR/AC
TRAU
MSC
EIR
BSC
OMC
SMS-SC
GGSN

2. What are the main tasks of a 3G MSC:

Switching of CS traffic
Call Setup & Release
Storing the User Equipments location
Charging
Generating Security Parameter
Serving all User Equipments of one Location Area

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3. Speech compression/decompression in UMTS:

is performed in the User Equipment and Radio Access Network

is performed in the User Equipment and Core Network
uses Full Rate, Half Rate and Enhanced Full Rate Speech codec
uses Adaptive Multirate AMR speech codec
is used in every speech connection
is only used in case of overload at the air interface

4. Which of the following information is wrong?

the VLR and SGSN are storing location information

the HLR and AuC are always associated
the security parameter generated by the AuC are the same as in GSM
there is always one HLR in a PLMN to store all subscribers profiles
the EIR can be used to check the identity of the subscriber

5. To implement CAMEL services the following network functions are used:

68

the GSM Service Control Function

the GPRS Service Control Function
the CAMEL Central Memory Function
the GSM Service Switching Function
the GPRS Service Switching Functions
the CAMEL Subscription Information data Unit

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Siemens

6. CAMEL

is helpful for the Virtual Home Environment VHE concept

will be used also for PS services in UMTS
uses the protocol CAP
is interacting with the UMTS Mobility Management to provide Location Based
Services
information are stored in HLR, gsmSCF and EIR

7. Which of the following properties are GPRS (Packet Switched) advantages?

volume dependent charging

Video telephony support
support of extended length SMS
non-proprietary IN-services
direct access towards Packet Data Networks
resource efficient data transport

8. Central 3G SGSN tasks are:

Mobility Management for PS data user

Radio Resource Management for PS data user
Session Management
temporary storage of PS subscriber profiles
storing the users current location, i.e. his cell
controlling the connected RNC's, i.e. O&M support
initiating of Authentication and Authorization
collecting charging data

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9. The following network functions are necessary for PS data transmission:

SGSN
GGSN
HLR
EIR
gprsSSF
RNC
Node B
UE

10. The RNC is responsible for:

Session Management SM
Radio Resource Management RRM
RNS control
Handover Decision
Transcoding and Rate Adaptation

11. Which of the following network elements is not part of UTRAN?

70

RNC
Node B
TRAU
IWF

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The UMTS Network

12. Please introduce the name of the interfaces into the following PLMN Summary:

UMTS Network
Summary
(Rel. `99)

GSM BSS

BTS
Abis
Um

Uu

UE

BTS

T
R
A
U

B
S
C

Iur

(n x BTS)

TM2201EU04TM_0002
2002 Siemens AG

R
N
C

MSC /
VLR

IWF/
TC

CAP

Gb

UTRAN
Node B
R
(n x BTS)
Iub N
Node B
C
(n x BTS)
Node B

CS Domain

Iu(CS)

CAP

Iu(PS)

EIR
Gf

SGSN

PS
Domain

HLR AuC

Gr
Gn

X.25

Gc

GGSN
Ga

Gd

ISDN

C/D

CSE

GMSC

PSTN

Gi

CGF

SMS-GMSC
SMS-IWMSC

IP
Billing
System
SM-SC

71

Siemens

The UMTS Network

13. Which of the following interfaces is NOT defined as an open interface?

Uu interface
Iu interface
Iur interface
Abis interface
Asub interface
Iub interface
A interface
AuC-HLR interface

14. What is different between GSM Phase 2+ and UMTS CN?

Transcoding is part of the CN functions in UMTS

Real Time data transfer is possible in the UMTS PS domain
The UMTS CN does not participate in Radio Resource Management
The Mobility Management cycles differ in GSM and UMTS
The UMTS security mechanism is enhanced compared to GSM.
nothing has changed to prevent changes in the hardware / reduce costs for
UMTS introduction

15. Which of the following information is wrong?

72

Release 4 CN are pure IP CN solutions

Release 4 defines bearer-independent call control
Release 4 CN allows to use IP or ATM for data transfer
Release 5 introduces the IP Multimedia Subsystem & Voice over IP
Release 5 introduces an "All IP Core Network" and All "IP Radio Access
Network"
Release 5 enhances the data rates towards 4 Mbit/s defining a new modulation
principle option

TM2201EU04TM_0002
2002 Siemens AG

The UMTS Network

Siemens

16. Which of the following network elements is new in Release 5:

Media Gateway MGW

Media Gateway Control Function MGCF
Call State Control Function CSCF
MSC Server
Home Subscriber Server HSS
Gateway GPRS Support Node GGSN

TM2201EU04TM_0002
2002 Siemens AG

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The UMTS Network

TM2201EU04TM_0002
2002 Siemens AG