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Page 1
1 What is GPRS ?
Session presentation
Program:
z 1.1 Definition
z 1.2 General architecture
z 1.3 Class of MS
z 1.4 GPRS Main Concepts
z 1.5 GPRS Benefits
z 1.6 EGPRS
z 1.7 Quality of Service profile
z 1.8 Services
Page 2
1 What is GPRS ?
1.1 Definition
3
PDN (Packet Data Network)
z IP networks = Internet (connectionless)
Page 3
1 What is GPRS ?
1.2 General architecture
PSTN
NSS
BSS
GPRS
Gb
PDN
Core Network
IP
IP / PPP
Gi
4
GPRS Core Network
The GPRS Core Network is also called GSS (GPRS Sub-System). It is an IP network, and therefore contains routers (machines
handling the packet switching function.)
Routing Function
Data transmission between GPRS Support Node (GSN), may occur across external data networks that provide their own internal
routing functions, for example X.25 [34], Frame Relay or ATM networks.
IP interworking
The GPRS Core Network supports interworking with networks based on the Internet protocol (IP). The GPRS Core Network may
provide compression of the TCP/IP header when an IP datagram is used within the context of a TCP connection.
X.25
X.25 PDP Type have been removed from the standard since R99.
Page 4
1 What is GPRS ?
1.3 Classes of MS
Class A
z Operates GPRS and other GSM services simultaneously.
Class B
z Monitors control channels for GSM GPRS and other GSM
services simultaneously,
z but can only operate one set of services at one time.
Class C
z Exclusively operates GPRS services.
5
Classes A and B
Require dual scanning by the mobile for both GSM and GPRS service requests. Class A or B mobiles are "attached"
simultaneously to both networks.
Class B
The exchange of packets is suspended to answer to an incoming GSM call (the GPRS subscriber is considered to be in the
"busy" or on hold" state).
The PDP contexts are still active on the SGSN side until the Purge_Timer elapses.
Class C
Exclusively operates GPRS services.
Page 5
1 What is GPRS ?
1.4 GPRS Main Concepts (1/4)
Radio interface
Radio timeslot
GSM
network
PDN
CS
PS
Page 6
1 What is GPRS ?
1.4 GPRS Main Concepts (2/4)
Radio timeslot
GPRS
network
PDN
PS
PS
Page 7
1 What is GPRS ?
1.4 GPRS Main Concepts (3/4)
8
Radio resource sharing
The radio resources are shared by statistical multiplexing. As in GSM, no subscriber has their own permanent radio resource.
Bit rate
Maximum instantaneous bit rate provides 171,2 kb/s by the allocation of eight RTSs to one subscriber. The stated maximum bit
rates are different, because different coding schemes are used, which impacts the bit rate over a RTS. (see Annex)
Up link (UL) and downlink (DL)
It is possible to use a different bit rates in each transmission direction, whereas in CS (Circuit Switching) mode, there is a
maximum limit of 9.6 kb/s, in both directions and at all times.
Page 8
1 What is GPRS ?
1.4 GPRS Main Concepts (4/4)
GPRS network
Radio timeslot
Radio
Block
9
Caution: Animated slide that does not make sense if not in the slide-show mode.
Optimized use
A radio resource (set of Radio Blocks over one or several RTS) is allocated only when data is being transferred, by establishing
and releasing Temporary Block Flow (TBF), that can be presented as micro-connections, each time a data transfer has to be sent
over the radio interface.
Radio resource sharing
One TS can be shared by several MSs, by dynamic time multiplexing under control of the BSS.
Page 9
1 What is GPRS ?
1.5 The benefits of GPRS
GPRS benefits
z BSS hardware (included OMC-R) is re-used from GSM
z Smooth GPRS introduction
z Higher data throughput thanks to EGPRS (EDGE)
z Data transfers can billed by volume instead of time
z An MS can exchange data by GPRS in parallel with a
conventional GSM call (if MS Class A)
10
BSS is re-used
The same Radio Access Network is re-used, and a Packet Control Unit (PCU) function is implemented in the BSS.
Compared to the GSM BSS
z same frequency bands
z same TDMA frame structure
z same burst structure
z same frequency hopping laws
z ...
Page 10
1 What is GPRS ?
1.6 EGPRS
11
Shared = in other words: "the radio resources are shared by statistical multiplexing". As in GSM, no subscriber has their own
permanent radio resource.
High or low bit rates = more than one time slot per MS or conversely, more than MS on the same TS (one TDMA frame occupies
4.615 ms and is divided into 8 TS or channels).
Maximum instantaneous bit rate provided = 171,2 kbps through the allocation of eight TSs to one subscriber. The stated
maximum bit rates are different (according to the BSS release), because different ways of encoding the data, or "coding
schemes", are used, which impacts the bit rate over a TS. (cf Annex)
Optimized use:refer to Radio resource allocation in the slides to come + radio resource management in the BSS Chapter.The
radio resource allocation is suitable for variable, bursty traffic (downloading Web pages).
Up link (UL) and downlink (DL): It is possible to use a different bandwidth (bit rate) in each transmission direction, whereas in CS
(circuit switching) mode, there is a maximum limit of 9,6 kbps, in both directions and at all times.
QoS: Henceforth, QoS parameters are part of subscription data, according to the wide range of services provided to a subscriber.
Page 11
1 What is GPRS ?
1.7 Quality of service profile
9 classes
19 classes
Reliability Class
5 classes
4 classes
3 classes
Throughput class
acknowledgement of packets
Delay Class
total delay measured between R or S point and Gi
Precedence Class
relative importance of service under congestion
12
Precedence class
According to the class, user data packet can be discarded during the transfer due to a congestion state.
3 classes are defined : any, normal, high
Delay class
The delay class depends on the operator network because a measurement is done between the R or S interface (between the
Mobile Terminal and the Terminal Equipment) and the Gi interface. For each operator, delay values are different so delay classes
are a reference not a strict value.
4 classes are defined : best effort, 1, 2, 3
Reliability class
The reliability means that user data packets are acknwoledged during the transfer. The reliability classes are defined according to
the acknowledgement or not of the packet.
5 classes are defined
Throughput class
The throughput class is defined by the 2 following parameters:
z Mean Throughput : 9 classes are defined (from best effort to 111 Kb/s)
z Peak Throughput : 19 classes are defined (from 8 Kb/s to 2048 Kb/s)
Page 12
1 What is GPRS ?
1.8 Services
Media
Always-on
Fun
Directories
Mobile Office
Voice (!)
E-mail
Agenda
IntraNet/InterNet
Corporate Applications
Database Access
Yellow/White Pages
International Directories
Operator Services
Music
Transportation
Flight/train Schedule
reservation
Vertical application
Traffic Management
Automation
Mobile branches
Health
Downloading of
music files or
video clips
News
(general/specific)
International/National News
Local News
Sport News
Weather
Lottery Results
Finance News
Location services
Traffic Conditions
Itineraries
Nearest Restaurant,
Cinema, Chemist,
Parking;, ATM ...
M-commerce
Non physical
on-line Banking
Ticketing
Auction
Gambling.
Physical
on-line shopping
on-line food
13
Retrieval services
Provide the capability of accessing information stored in data base centers. The information is sent to the user on demand only.
An example of one such service in the Internet's World Wide Web (WWW).
Messaging services
Offer user-to-user communication between individual users via storage units with store-and-forward mailbox, and/or message
handling (e.g., information editing, processing and conversion) functions;
Conversational services
Provide bi-directional communication by means of real-time (no store-and-forward) end-to-end information transfer from user to
user. An example of such a service is the Internet's Telnet application;
Tele-action services
Characterized by low data-volume (short) transactions, for example credit card validations, lottery transactions, utility meter
readings and electronic monitoring and surveillance systems.
Distribution services
Characterized by the unidirectional flow of information from a given point in the network to other (multiple) locations. Examples
may include news, weather and traffic reports, as well as product or service advertisements;
Dispatching services
Characterized by the bi-directional flow of information from a given point in the network (dispatcher) and other (multiple) users.
Examples include taxi and public utility fleet services;
Conferencing services
Provide multi-directional communication by means of real-time (no store-and-forward) information transfer between multiple users.
Page 13
1 What is GPRS ?
Exercise
True or False ?
14
Page 14
1 What is GPRS ?
Evaluation
15
Page 15
GPRS Operation
16
Page 16
2 GPRS Operation
Session presentation
Program:
z 2.1 Main Entities
z 2.2 MS Mobility Management States
z 2.3 MS Radio Resource Operating Modes
z 2.4 Basic Procedures
z 2.5 Charging
z 2.6 Security
17
Page 17
2 GPRS Operation
2.1 Main Entities
Overview
NSS
PSTN
MSC/VLR
BSS
with PCU
HLR
GPRS
Core Network
SGSN
Internet
GPRS IP
Backbone
GGSN
MS
DNS
DHCP
BG
NTP
18
PCU functions
z LLC PDU segmentation / re-assembly into RLC/MAC PDU
z PDCH scheduling (resource multiplexing)
z Channel access control (access requests and grants)
z ARQ function (RLC block Ack / Nak, buffering and retransmission of RLC blocks)
z Radio channel management (power control, congestion control, broadcast control information).
DNS (Domain Name Server) and DHCP (Dynamic Host Convergence Protocol)
NTP server (Network Time Protocol) for GSN synchronization. In general an NTP application does not run on a dedicated
server. The OMC-G can play this role.
HLR (Home Location Register) is involved in MS attachment to the GPRS network (authentication + services subscribed to)
Page 18
2 GPRS Operation
2.1 Main Entities
GSS
IP network 1
SGSN1
BSS1
IP
backbone
BSS2
SGSN2
GGSN1
IP network 2
IP network 3
GGSN2
IP network 4
IP network 5
GGSN3
19
The SGSN (Serving GPRS Support Node) stores subscriber data:
z Subscription information
IMSI
one or more temporary identities (P-TMSI)
zero or more PDP addresses
z Location information
the cell or the RA where the MS is registered
the VLR number of the associated VLR (if the Gs interface is implemented)
the GGSN address of each GGSN for which an active PDP context exists
It also manages:
z the transfer and routing of user data packets from the GSS towards the BSS
z the mobility (GPRS attach/detach, data retrieval from the HLR, RA / Cell update)
z the authentication and encryption (Access control and security)
z the sessions (PDP context activation/deactivation)
z The transfer of charging data.
The GGSN (Gateway GPRS Support Node) stores subscriber data received from the HLR and the SGSN:
z Subscription information
IMSI
zero or more PDP addresses
z Location information
the SGSN address of the SGSN where the MS is registered
It also manages:
z the allocation and use of dynamic @IP for MS,
z the tunneling and encryption of user data at Gi interface,
z the transfer of user data packets,
z the charging data.
Alcatel University - 8AS 90200 1322 VH ZZA Ed.10 P01
Page 19
2 GPRS Operation
2.1 Main Entities
Servers
SGSN
GPRS IP Backbone
GGSN
DNS
DHCP
Name
IP
address
NTP
IP
address
20
DNS
z
DHCP
z Provide dynamically IP addresses
z Split Users into pool of IP addresses
NTP
z Provide one time reference for all the network
z Have a very precise time reference
z Synchronization from satellite
Page 20
2 GPRS Operation
2.1 Main Entities
Border gateway
VPLMN IP
backbone
SGSN
GGSN
VPLMN
MS
BG
Inter-PLMN
network
BG
GGSN
SGSN
HPLMN IP backbone
PDN
HPLMN
21
Border Gateway functions
z Inter-PLMN routing and forwarding of user packets (IP router)
z
Page 21
2 GPRS Operation
2.1 Main Entities
Interfaces
Um
Mobile
GPRS
BSS
MSC
Gs
Gb
SMSGMSC
HLR
Gd
Gr
Gc
SGSN
Gn
Signaling + data
Signaling
SGSN
GGSN
Gi
PDN
GPRS network
22
Signaling protocols
z MAP/TCAP/SCCP/MTP on Gr, Gd and Gc,
z GTP/UDP/IP on Gn,
z BSSAP+/SCCP/MTP on Gs,
z GMM/SM/LLC on Gb/Um.
Gc interface
Used for network-requested PDP contexts activation (GGSN asks the HLR for SGSN routing information).
Gs interface
Defines the Network Mode of Operation I (NMOI). It allows to perform LA + RA combined Location Update, and PS and CS
paging coordination (refer to ANNEX).
Gr interface
Exchange of subscription information at GPRS attachment phase
Additional interfaces
z Gf (to the EIR)
z Gd to deliver the SMS to the mobiles via the GPRS network (SGSN option and subscriber feature)
Page 22
2 GPRS Operation
2.2 MS Mobility Management States
MS MM states
Stand-by
READY timer expiry
PDU transmission
Ready
GPRS Attach
GPRS Detach
Idle
23
IDLE (GPRS) State
In GPRS IDLE state, the subscriber is not attached to GPRS mobility management. The MS and SGSN contexts hold no valid
location or routeing information for the subscriber. The subscriber-related mobility management procedures are not performed.
Data transmission to and from the mobile subscriber and the paging of the subscriber is not possible. The GPRS MS is seen as
not reachable in this case.
In order to establish MM contexts in the MS and the SGSN, the MS shall perform the GPRS Attach procedure.
STANDBY State
In STANDBY state, the subscriber is attached to GPRS mobility management. Pages for data or signalling information transfers
may be received. It is also possible to receive pages for the CS services via the SGSN. Data reception and transmission are not
possible in this state.
The MS performs GPRS Routeing Area (RA) and GPRS cell selection and re-selection locally. The MS executes mobility
management procedures to inform the SGSN when it has entered a new RA. The MS does not inform the SGSN on a change of
cell in the same RA. Therefore, the location information in the SGSN MM context contains only the GPRS RAI for MSs in
STANDBY state.
The MS may initiate activation or deactivation of PDP contexts while in STANDBY state. A PDP context shall be activated before
data can be transmitted or received for this PDP context.
READY State
In READY state, the SGSN MM context corresponds to the STANDBY MM context extended by location information for the
subscriber on the cell level. The MS performs mobility management procedures to provide the network with the actual selected
cell. GPRS cell selection and re-selection is done locally by the MS, or may optionally be controlled by the network.
An identifier of the cell, the Cell Global Identity including RAC and LAC, is included in the BSSGP header of the data packet from
the MS; see GSM 08.18 [21].
The MS may send and receive PDP PDUs in this state. The network initiates no GPRS pages for an MS in READY state. Pages
for other services may be done via the SGSN. The SGSN transfers downlink data to the BSS responsible for the subscriber's
actual GPRS cell.
The MS may activate or deactivate PDP contexts while in READY state.
Page 23
2 GPRS Operation
2.3 MS Radio Resource Operating Modes
RR
Packet
transfer mode
MM
Packet
idle mode
Ready
Packet
idle mode
Standby
24
Packet idle mode
In packet idle mode no Temporary Block Flow. Upper layers can require the transfer of a LLC PDU which, implicitly, may trigger
the establishment of TBF and transition to packet transfer mode.
While operating in packet idle mode, a mobile station belonging to GPRS MS class A may simultaneously enter the different RR
service modes. A mobile station belonging to either of GPRS MS class B or C leaves both packet idle mode and packet transfer
modes before entering dedicated mode, group receive mode or group transmit mode.
Packet transfer mode
In packet transfer mode, the mobile station is allocated radio resource providing a Temporary Block Flow on one or more physical
channels. Continuous transfer of one or more LLC PDUs is possible. Concurrent TBFs may be established in opposite directions.
Transfer of LLC PDUs in RLC acknowledged or RLC unacknowledged mode is provided.
When selecting a new cell, mobile station leaves the packet transfer mode, enters the packet idle mode where it switches to the
new cell, read the system information and may then resume to packet transfer mode in the new cell.
While operating in packet transfer mode, a mobile station belonging to GPRS MS class A may simultaneously enter the different
RR service modes. A mobile station belonging to either of GPRS MS class B or C leaves both packet idle mode and packet
transfer modes before entering dedicated mode, group receive mode or group transmit mode.
Page 24
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
SMS
IP
NSAPIi
SNDCP
LLC
TLLI
NSAPI
TLLI
NSAPI
Radio layers
25
SNDCP (Sub-Network Dependent Convergence Protocol)
Data compression, segmentation of large packets, recognition of PDP-PDU sessions (according to their NSAPI), inclusion of QoS
(use of SAPIs on the LLC link).
NSAPI (Network Service Access Point Identifier)
This is used for a particular MS to distinguish different PDP contexts (= sessions)
z by the PDP-type: X.25 or IP, or mainly by
z the APN to be reached, or by
z the required QoS.
LLC (Logical Link Control)
Provides a safe link, encrypted and independent of the physical bearer, independent to BSS brand.
TLLI (Temporary Logical Link Identity)
Identifies a logical link with the MS (one TLLI per MS)
GMM/SM (GPRS Mobility Management / Session Management)
MS-SGSN signaling protocol for Gprs Mobility Management/ Session Management
SMS (Short Message Service)
Page 25
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
Transmission plane
Application
Application
IP
IP
IP
relay
SNDCP
LLC
UDP
UDP
(BSSGP)
Frame
relay
(BSSGP)
IP
IP
Frame
relay
L2
L2
Physical Physical
Layer
Layer
Physical
Layer
Physical
Layer
Physical
Layer
RLC
MAC
MAC
Physical
Layer
MS
LLC
relay
RLC
Um
GTP
GTP
SNDCP
BSS
(with PCU)
Gb
SGSN
Gn
L2 (MAC)
Physical
Layer
GGSN
Gi
26
GTP (GPRS Tunnelling Protocol) tunnels user data between GPRS Support Nodes in the backbone network. The GPRS
Tunnelling Protocol shall encapsulate all PDP PDUs.
UDP (User Datagram Protocol) carries GTP PDUs for protocols that do not need a reliable data link (e.g., IP), and provides
protection against corrupted GTP PDUs.
IP (Internet Protocol) is the backbone network protocol used for routing user data and control signalling. The backbone network
may initially be based on the IPv4. Ultimately, IPv6 shall be used.
SNDCP (SubNetwork Dependent Convergence Protocol ) maps network-level characteristics onto the characteristics of the
underlying network.
LLC (Logical Link Control) provides a highly reliable ciphered logical link. LLC shall be independent of the underlying radio
interface protocols in order to allow introduction of alternative GPRS radio solutions with minimum changes to the NSS.
Relay. In the BSS, this function relays LLC PDUs between the Um and Gb interfaces. In the SGSN, this function relays PDP
PDUs between the Gb and Gn interfaces.
BSSGP (Base Station System GPRS Protocol) conveys routing and QoS-related information between the BSS and the SGSN.
BSSGP does not perform error correction.
(NS) Network Service transports BSSGP PDUs. NS is based on the Frame Relay connection between the BSS and the SGSN,
and may - multi-hop and traverse a network of Frame Relay switching nodes.
RLC/MAC (Radio Link Control / Medium Access Control). The Radio Link Control function provides a radio-solutiondependent reliable link. The Medium Access Control function controls the access signalling (request and grant) procedures for the
radio channel, and the mapping of LLC frames onto the GSM physical channel.
Page 26
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
IMSI MSISDN
network access mode :
GPRS | NSS
| both
MS
HLR
n times
PDP type :
IP | PPP
[PDP address (IP@) ]
Access point name (APN) or * (= wild card)
APN accessible through FPLMN-GGSN ?
QoS profile
HPLMN
etc ...
27
PDP address
Almost always empty. The network then dynamically assigns (using a DHCP server) an IP address to the subscriber when he
activates his PDP context (seen later).
PDP contexts
Each PDP context can be considered as a BS (basic service = telephony, fax, etc). A PDP context is a dialog session with an
external IP network, identified with an APN. It is not always mandatory to subscribe (in the HLR) to PDP contexts, access to some
networks is free. For a user, the traffic of his different sessions will be recognized in the messages by the use of different
NSAPIs. A user can declare one of his PDP contexts as the default.
APN (Access Point Name)
The APN represents an IP network. An APN has two parts: the APN-Network Id (example: wanadoo.fr) and the APN-oper Id
(example: mnc...gprs)
z Examples of APN: wanadoo.fr.mnc001.mcc208.gprs,
z APN = * (wildcard) potentially authorizes the MS to activate any APN.
Valid APN
Boolean, if YES, indicates that this APN can be reached through the GGSN of the visited FPLMN.
Page 27
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
GPRS attachment
HLR
SS7
network
Update_loc_ack()
Insert_subs_data()
Update_loc_req()
Authent_info_req()
Authent_info_respq)
Attach-Request (IMSI)
PLMN
MS_authentication_procedure
SGSN
Attach_resp (P_TMSI)
Attach_complete ()
GPRS IP
backbone
GGSN
BSS
28
Attach Request.
z The attach_request message is placed in an LLC frame.
z The MS sends its IMSI.
Authentication
The SGSN gets the authentication triplets from the HLR:
z triplets request message
z triplets response message
The SGSN performs the authentication procedure with the MS:
z triplets request message
z triplets response message
Location Update
The SGSN performs the location_update procedure with the HLR:
z location_update request message
z the HLR transfers the MS_subscription data to the SGSN
z the HLR terminates the location_update procedure
Attach Complete
The SGSN terminates the attach_procedure with the MS :
z attach_accept message (with a new P_TMSI allocation)
z
Page 28
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
GPRS attachment
after a GPRS_Attach procedure
SGSN1
TLLI1
GGSN1
PDN1
GPRS IP
backbone
SGSN2
GPRS - CN
GGSN2
PDN2
LLC layer
29
Attached MS
After running the attach procedure, the MS is GPRS_attached:
z a logical connection is established between the MS and the SGSN
z connection established between the peer LLC layers in the MS and the SGSN
z this connection is identified by the TLLI (Temporary Logical Link Identity)
z this logical connection remains established until the MS detaches
z the MS can now access to GPRS services and is reachable for GPRS services
Page 29
2- GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic procedures
DHCP
2
PLMN
Activate_PDP_req (PDN2)
TLLI1
SGSN
GGSN1
PDN1
GGSN2
PDN2
GPRS
backbone
Activate_PDP_resp(@IP_MS)
BSS
Create_PDP_req (PDN2) 3
5 Create_PDP_resp (@IP_MS)
30
MS IP address
In case of IP PDP_type access with no additional mobile authentication procedure, the MS IP address is provided by the PLMN,
using either the subscription data, or the backbone DHCP server. No additional user authentication is needed on top of the GPRS
authentication mechanisms (i.e. using IMSI and authentication triplets)
PDP Context Activation
z MS requests for a PDP_context activation, providing the name of target Packet Data Network (PDN2 parameter).
z SGSN queries the backbone Name Server (here DNS) to identify the GGSN giving access to the Data Network PDN2
(here GGSN2).
z SGSN sends a Create_PDP message to the corresponding GGSN2, in order to setup a GTP tunnel.
z GGSN2 allocates an IP address to the MS (@IP_MS), using the backbone DHCP server.
z GGSN2 acknowledges the Create_PDP message to the SGSN, returning the @IP_MS allocated to the MS.
z SGSN acknowledges the Activate_PDP message to the MS, with the allocated @IP_MS.
Page 30
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
Authentication and
accounting
DNS
RADIUS
2
PLMN
Activate_PDP_req (PDN1)
GGSN1
TLLI1
PDN1
GPRS
backbone
SGSN
Intranet/ISP
Activate_PDP_resp(@IP_MS)
GGSN2
BSS
Create_PDP_req (PDN1) 3
DHCP
6 Create_PDP_resp (@IP_MS)
Address allocation
31
MS address
IP PDP_type access with mobile authentication via a RADIUS. The address allocation server (i.e. DHCP) and/or authentication
server (i.e. RADIUS) may be located within the PLMN or in the ISP/Intranet network. Non-transparent access is aimed for
corporate intranet access, where additional user authentication is often required.
PDP Context Activation
z The authentication data are piggybacked in the Protocol Configuration Options (PCO) field of the PDP context activation
messages and .
z , , same as for IP PDP_type in transparent access.
z GGSN performs the user authentication towards a RADIUS server.
z GGSN allocates an @IP to the MS using the intranet/ISP DHCP server.
z , same as for a PDP context in transparent access.
Page 31
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
SGSN1
TID1=IMSI+ NSAPI1
TLLI1
GGSN1
PDN1
TID
2=
IM
SI+ IP
GPRS
NS
backbone
AP
I2
SGSN2
GPRS - CN
by the LLC layer
GGSN2
PDN2
Page 32
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
SGSN1
ul/dl data_transfers
TID1=IMSI+ NSAPI1
TLLI1
GGSN1
PDN1
TID
2=
IM
SI+ IP
GPRS
NS
backbone
AP
I2
SGSN2
GPRS - CN
by the LLC layer
GGSN2
PDN2
Page 33
2 GPRS Operation
2.4 Basic Procedures
GGSN
over the Gi interface
@ MS
@server
U-data
@ MS
@server
U-data
MS
U-data
within the MS
@server
@ MS
@ggsn
@sgsn
UDP
header
U-data
@ MS
@server
GTP
header
GTP
header
@server
@ MS
UDP
header
@sgsn
@ggsn
PDN
U-data
server
@server
@ MS
U-data
34
User data transfer
Data are transferred from header translation, then encapsulation in underlined protocol data unit.
At the GGSN, the IP address of the MS is used to retrieve a PDP context and therefore a TID and the address of the current
SGSN.
At the SGSN, the TID is used to work out the NSAPI and the IMSI (therefore the TLLI). If the MS is ready, no need for paging
because the MS is located to the exact cell.
Page 34
2 GPRS Operation
2.5 Charging
Charging process
CCBS
ftp
CG
MS
S_CDR
G_CDR
GTP
M_CDR
GPRS
backbone
BSS
SGSN
GPRS_Attach procedure
GGSN
PDN
Page 35
2 GPRS Operation
2.5 Charging
Charging process
VPLMN
backbone
SGSN
VPLMN
MS
CG
S-CDR
CCBS
BG
Inter-PLMN
network
BG
CCBS
CG
GGSN
HPLMN
backbone
HPLMN
PDN
G-CDR
36
Page 36
2 GPRS operation
2.6 Security
1- Secured network access
Authentication of MSs and confidentiality of
their identity
Possibility of encrypting user data
Possibility of verifying IMEI with an EIR (Gf)
GPRS Network
Public Internet
37
Authentication and confidentiality
As in GSM, by security triplets and the use of the TLLI/P_TMSI instead of the IMSI.
Encryption
The LLC frame is encrypted, so encryption from the MS to the SGSN and not just on Um.
Firewall
Filtering function installed on routers (ex: GGSN). Packets are rejected by filtering at application level (for example: in http, some
URLs are barred). Also makes it possible to hide the IP addresses of MSs and backbone entities from external hosts (Network
Address Translation function).
Access Lists (IP addresses lists)
A function of Cisco routers (and therefore of GGSNs). Each APN is linked to two lists of IP addresses to be checked during the
PDP context activation phase (calling address and called address in both UL and DL directions).
These lists are therefore used to protect access to the operator's backbone IP, but also to filter the access to external PDNs.
At the GGSN, some APNs can be declared "with mandatory subscription" (at the HLR) and therefore inaccessible to other MSs.
Tunneling
Several ways:
z by IPsec (Secured IP) = IP version in which the user data is encrypted (IP datagrams payload but not their header). Or by
Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE)
z by PPTP (Point-To-Point Tunneling Protocol). Refer to ANNEX for PPP Tunneling.
Page 37
2 GPRS operation
Exercise (1/3)
True or False?
38
Page 38
2 GPRS operation
Exercise (2/3)
True or False ?
Time allowed :
sent or received
9 The Charging gateway provides a
single interface towards the billing
centers
9 No need for paging to send a packet to
a mobile in the "Ready" state
9 Attachment to the network does not
involve GGSN
5 minutes
39
Page 39
2 GPRS operation
Exercise (2/3)
Time allowed :
5 minutes
40
Page 40
2 GPRS operation
Evaluation
41
Page 41
42
Page 42
Objectives :
z To be able to briefly describe the data
interchange mechanisms through the BSS
Program :
z 3.1 3GPP Position
z 3.2 Alcatels Choice
z 3.3 Layered Model
z 3.4 Gb Interface
z 3.5 Radio Interface
43
Page 43
PCU function
CCU
BTS
PCU
BSC
SGSN
CCU
Gb
Um
BSC
CCU
PCU
BTS
SGSN
CCU
Gb
CCU
BSC
BTS
PCU
CCU
Abis
CCU = Channel Control Unit
PCU = Packet Control Unit
SGSN
44
PCU functions
RLC and MAC layers: LLC frame transportation (segmentation/reassembly),
z Gb interface end point,
z network access functions (radio resource management),
z radio channel management (power control, congestion control, etc).
CCU functions
z encoding suited to radio channels,
z radio measurements (receive quality, signal level, "timing advance" management).
Page 44
PCU function
MFS
TRE
BSC
BTS
PCU
TRE
GSL
TRE
TRE
Abis
Um
PCU
PCU
BSC
BTS
MFS
SGSN
Gb
Ater
mux
45
The Multi BSS Fast packet Server (MFS):
z performs the GPRS Packet Control Unit (PCU) functions (3GPP 03.60 standard),
z manages the Gb interface with the GPRS & EGPRS core network,
z performs the Serving Mobile Location Center (SMLC) functions,
z manages the SAGI interface with the A-GPS server.
Page 45
User plane
IP
SNDCP
SM
GMM SM
GMM
LLC
SNDCP
LLC
PCU
RLC
RLC
Frame
relay
Frame
relay
L2-GCH
L1-GCH
Physical
layer
Physical
layer
relay
MS
Physical L2-GCH
layer
L1-GCH
Um
BTS
BSSGP
BSS
GP
MAC
MAC
Physical
layer
relay
Abis/Ater
MFS
Gb
SGSN
46
For GPRS TRAFFIC, the BSS simply relays the LLC frames between the MS and the SGSN.
BSSGP = BSS Gprs Protocol. Functions:
z to relay LLC frame over the Gb, with no guarantee of integrity (relaying user data and GMM / SM messages : session,
RA_update and paging procedures). Conceals the FR layers for the LLC layer.
z SGSN-MFS signaling = management of Gb interface objects (flush, paging, resume suspend, LLC-discarded and other
procedures).
z cell-SGSN traffic management (identified by BssgpVCs): in particular cell update management (in the same RA): the
BSSGP header always indicates the current cell so if a "ready" MS moves into a new cell, then the SGSN stores this new
cell and sends all the unacknowledged LLC_PDUs to it (DL).
The concept of handover has no meaning in packet switching (GPRS). There is no "circuit" to re-establish!
RLC = Radio Link Control. (Provides a safe link for transporting LLC-PDUs in acknowledged or unacknowledged mode, LLC-PDU
segmentation into blocks and reassembly, management of TBF contexts. RLC depends on the physical bearer: data encoding,
error control and flow control suited to GSM channels.
MAC = Medium Access Control. Multiplexing of RLC frames onto PDCH (transfer of blocks over the different PDCHi). Including
traffic sharing over several TSs or, conversely, the use of one TS for several users.
Page 46
Signaling plane
BSCGP
BSCGP
L2-GSL
L1-GSL
L2-GSL
L1-GSL
RRM
RRM
relay
relay
physical
layer
MS
physical
layer
Um
BTS
Abis
BSC
Ater
MFS
Gb
47
BSCGP protocol
z administration interface of Radio Resource management :
(de)allocation of PDCH and MPDCH within a cell
activation / release of PDCH
z System control information:
BSC reset procedure
cell and GIC group state management
z Radio signalling :
GSM / GPRS paging,
GPRS access procedure
RMM protocol
z dynamic allocation of Radio Resources to a MS :
radio blocks from one or several PDCH
for uplink or downlink data transfers
Page 47
Managed entities
BSS side
BVCI=2
BVCI=1
BVCI=3
BSC1
NSVC1
BVCI=1
PCM
PVC
BC
NSE1
NSE1
PCM
BC
PCM
PVC
BC
NSVC2
BVCI=3
F.R
Network
PCM
BC
BVCI=5
BVCI=4
BVCI=6
BSC2
NSVC3
BVCI=5
BVCI=4
PCM
PVC
BC
NSE2
NSE2
PCM
BC
NSVC4
PCM
PVC
BC
BVCI=6
SGSN
48
For GPRS TRAFFIC, the BSS simply relays the LLC frames between the MS and the SGSN.
BSSGP = BSS Gprs Protocol. Functions:
z to relay LLC frame over the Gb, with no guarantee of integrity (relaying user data and GMM / SM messages : session,
RA_update and paging procedures). Conceals the FR layers for the LLC layer.
z SGSN-MFS signaling = management of Gb interface objects (flush, paging, resume suspend, LLC-discarded and other
procedures).
z cell-SGSN traffic management (identified by BssgpVCs): in particular cell update management (in the same RA): the
BSSGP header always indicates the current cell so if a "ready" MS moves into a new cell, then the SGSN stores this new
cell and sends all the unacknowledged LLC_PDUs to it (DL).
The concept of handover has no meaning in packet switching (GPRS). There is no "circuit" to re-establish!
RLC = Radio Link Control. (Provides a safe link for transporting LLC-PDUs in acknowledged or unacknowledged mode, LLC-PDU
segmentation into blocks and reassembly, management of TBF contexts. RLC depends on the physical bearer: data encoding,
error control and flow control suited to GSM channels.
MAC = Medium Access Control. Multiplexing of RLC frames onto PDCH (transfer of blocks over the different PDCHi). Including
traffic sharing over several TSs or, conversely, the use of one TS for several users.
Page 48
Protocols
BSS side
BVCI=2
BVCI=1
BVCI=3
BSC1
BSS GPRS Protocol
(BSSGP)
BVC
NSE
(NSC)
NS-VC
(NSC)
Sub-Network Service
PVC
Sub-Network Service
(BSSGP)
BVCI=5
BVCI=4
BVCI=6
BSC2
(SNS)
Physical layer
(SNS)
BC
PCM
PCM
Physical layer
Frame Relay
SGSN
49
For GPRS TRAFFIC, the BSS simply relays the LLC frames between the MS and the SGSN.
BSSGP = BSS Gprs Protocol. Functions:
z to relay LLC frame over the Gb, with no guarantee of integrity (relaying user data and GMM / SM messages : session,
RA_update and paging procedures). Conceals the FR layers for the LLC layer.
z SGSN-MFS signaling = management of Gb interface objects (flush, paging, resume suspend, LLC-discarded and other
procedures).
z cell-SGSN traffic management (identified by BssgpVCs): in particular cell update management (in the same RA): the
BSSGP header always indicates the current cell so if a "ready" MS moves into a new cell, then the SGSN stores this new
cell and sends all the unacknowledged LLC_PDUs to it (DL).
The concept of handover has no meaning in packet switching (GPRS). There is no "circuit" to re-establish!
RLC = Radio Link Control. (Provides a safe link for transporting LLC-PDUs in acknowledged or unacknowledged mode, LLC-PDU
segmentation into blocks and reassembly, management of TBF contexts. RLC depends on the physical bearer: data encoding,
error control and flow control suited to GSM channels.
MAC = Medium Access Control. Multiplexing of RLC frames onto PDCH (transfer of blocks over the different PDCHi). Including
traffic sharing over several TSs or, conversely, the use of one TS for several users.
Page 49
EGPRS
GPRS
Coding Scheme
Modulation
Maximum rate
per PDCH (kb/s)
CS4
GMSK
21.4
CS3
GMSK
15.6
CS2
GMSK
13.4
CS1
GMSK
9.05
MCS9
8-PSK
59.2
MCS8
8-PSK
54.4
MCS7
8-PSK
44.8
MCS6
8-PSK
29.6 / 27.2*
MCS5
8-PSK
22.4
MCS4
GMSK
17.6
MCS3
GMSK
14.8 / 13.6*
MCS2
GMSK
11.2
MCS1
GMSK
8.8
* in case of padding
50
Page 50
GMSK
101
011
001
8-PSK
51
Transmission and reception data flows are the same for GPRS and EGPRS, except for EGPRS MCS-9, MCS-8 and
where 4 normal bursts carry 2 RLC blocks (1 RLC block within 2 bursts for MCS-9 and MCS-8).
MCS-7,
Radio blocks are transported on the air interface (Um) over 4 consecutive normal bursts of the TDMA frame.
The GMSK normal burst is composed of 156.25 symbols (1 bit for 1 symbol):
6 tail symbols,
26 training sequence symbols,
114 encrypted symbols,
2 stealing flags (2 symbols),
8.25 guard period (symbols).
z For GMSK, the radio blocks are transported by 114 x 4 = 456 symbols.
The 8-PSK normal burst is composed of 156.25 symbols (3 bits for 1 symbol):
6 tail symbols,
26 training sequence symbols,
116 encrypted symbols (there is stealing flags),
8.25 guard period (symbols).
z For 8-PSK, the radio blocks are transported by 116 x 4 = 456 symbols.
Page 51
fi
TDMA1
TDMA51
Multi-frame (52)
0 to 3
47 to 50
TS0
51
Block0
PDCH0
Block11
10
11
8 physical
channels
PDCH7
52
One TDMA frame = eight TSs, each of 156.25 bits (!). The structure of the bits forms a "burst". One TDMA frame = 4.615 ms. One
52 multi-frame = 52 * 4.615 = 240 ms
The succession of TSi on a frequency fi forms a channel (UL or DL).
A channel used for GPRS is called a Packet Data CHannel.
Division into blocks: One block = four TS of the same rank on 4 consecutive TDMA frames. This is the radio resource allocation
unit. One block = four TS of 156.25 bits = 625 bits.
In each cell, CS Adaptation according to the radio environment is part of the QoS. It is based on the received signal strength and
its BER. CS3 and CS4 will be available with the B8 BSS release.
Note: A physical channel on a frequency fi in practice includes two frequencies: fi DL and fi UL.
Page 52
GPRS channels
Um
Abis
BTS
Channel
Coding
Radio blocks
PDTCH 1
AterMux
BSC
MFS
(PCU)
RLC/MAC PDU
Gb
SGSN
LLC PDUs
(1600 bytes max)
EGCH 1
11
PDTCH n
EGCH n
11
Radio blocks
GMSK: 456 symbols
8-PSK: 464 symbols
53
EGCH
The BSC connects several Abis terrestrial channels (from 1 to 5) to several Atermux terrestrial channels (from 1 to 5) upon
request from the MFS.
This connection is called a EGCH channel, which is controlled by the GCH layer in the BTS and in the MFS.
An EGCH is made up of a pool of GCH (from 1 to 5) ): One main GCH and a pool of auxiliary GCH.
(GCH uses the basic 16k Abis nibble)
Page 53
PDCH
MPDCH
PBCCH
PCCCH = PPCH + PAGCH + PRACH
PTCH = PDTCH + PACCH
SPDCH
54
For each cell, it is possible to define the MINIMUM and MAXIMUM number of channels reserved for GPRS + the maximum
number of channels reserved for GPRS in case of high traffic load (when the BSC sends "Load indication" to the MFS through
BSCGP protocol).
There are two types of PDCH : MPDCH and SPDCH
z MPDCH = Master PDCH = PBCCH + PCCCH (PPCH + PAGCH + PRACH) -> carries GPRS signaling and system
information.
z SPDCH = Slave PDCH -> carries the user traffic.
Benefits of the Master Channel :
z Preserves CCCH capacity for speech services
z Higher GPRS signaling capacity, in line with GPRS traffic growth
z Differentiated cell re-selection strategy between GPRS and non GPRS MS. When GPRS attached, a MS listen to PSI
broadcast on PBCCH. It allows a finer tuning of GPRS re-selection algorithms, for example in hierarchical networks (C31
and C32 criteria). Otherwise, MS applies the basic Cell-reselection as in GSM Idle-Mode using the C1 and C2 GSM
criteria
Page 54
UL transfer
start
of TBF1
end of
TBF1
MS
TBF2
TBF3
network
TBF4
fULi
time
Packet Channel Request
Packet Resource Assignment
(list of PDCHi, token=T,TFIk)
MFS
TFIk
TFIk
TFIk
TFIk
TFIk
TFIk
in block b
token =T ?
Y
UL PDCHi
55
This slide demonstrate that the radio resources (blocks) are used only when data need to be transferred (LLC-PDU) : dynamic
radio resource allocation. As a matter of fact, an MS shall specify its radio resource request at initiation of each TBF for a better
optimization of radio resource & MS capabilities.
A TBF (the blue shape) comprises one or more consecutive LLC-PDUs.
Temporary (Block) Flow Identity = TLLI + sequential number, used by the network to recognize data from different MSs. Identifies
uniquely a TBF in one direction within a cell.
z The blocks are dynamically allocated upon the use of a token (Uplink State Flag) allocated to the MS at TBF
establishment. Any DL block includes a USF in the header.
z The mobile "listens" to the PDCHi assigned, when block b (in DL) contains USF = T, the MS shall send one PDTCH in UL
on block b+1 on the UL PDCHi.
The theoretical maximum of 160 kbit/s is given for one MS which would have 8 PDCHs of 21.4 kbit/s each. Those MS are yet to
be available on the market place.
Page 55
DL transfer
SGSN
MFS
MS PDU
PS Paging
UL TBF: refer to
previous slide
DL PDCHj
N
in block b, TFI=TFIz ?
Y
Page 56
True or False?
57
Page 57
True or False?
to a single user
9 If necessary, blocks on different PDCHs
can be allocated to a single user
9 The NSEI is the identifier used by the
SGSN to indicate the destination cell of a
LLC frame to the MFS
9 The same quantity of PVCs is declared on
Time allowed :
the MFS and SGSN sides
5 minutes
58
Page 58
59
Page 59
Alcatel Solution
60
Page 60
4 Alcatel Solution
Session presentation
61
Page 61
4 Alcatel Solution
4.1 GPRS Network Overview
HLR
B
T
S
BSS1
MSC
SCP
Radio subsystem
BSC
RADIUS
server
B
T
S
B
T
S
B
T
S
GGSN1
BSS2
A9135
MFS
Firewall server
SGSN
Intranet
BSC
Access router
external
DNS
BSS-BSC
GGSN2
GPRS IP
backbone
Frame
Relay
network
B
T
S
B
T
S
SMS-C
SGSN
A9135
MFS
NTP server
Charging
Gateway
PLMN
DNS/DHCP server
Internet
Border
Gateway
Inter-PLMN
backbone
62
Within the radio subsystem :
z Existing Alcatel BTS and BSC from GSM are reused for GPRS :
no need of hardware change to provide GPRS features
need just software upgrade
z The GSM-BSS now includes a proprietary equipment :
Alcatel A9135 = MFS (Multi BSS Fast packet Server)
which deals with the GPRS PCU functions
The HLR, MSC, SCP and SMS-C are reused from the GSM-NSS
Page 62
4 Alcatel Solution
4.2 Alcatel 9135 MFS
Functional architecture
Control Subsystem
OMC-R
Ethernet LANs
B
T
S
BSC1
GPU 1
B
T
S
GPU 2
B
T
S
B
T
S
SGSN
GPU x
BSC2
GPU y
A-ter interface
Telecom Subsystem
Gb interface
63
The duplex "Control subsystem" (two DS10 in active/standby mode, with 2 shared disks) :
z
2.
Each GPU board performs the PCU functions towards the BSC and the SGSN
16 PCM ports per GPU board
some PCM ports connected to the BSS, the other to the SGSN
There are two different configurations regarding the support of BSC by the GPU boards :
z
only one GPU board supporting each BSC (in the B6.2 release)
Page 63
4 Alcatel Solution
4.2 Alcatel 9135 MFS
Rack layout
11 BSXTU
BSXTU
11
11 GPU
GPU (+1)
(+1)
maxi
maxi
11 BSXTU
BSXTU
11
11 GPU
GPU (+1)
(+1)
maxi
maxi
22 DS
DS 10
10
Control
Control
sub-rack
sub-rack
22 or
or 44
Switches
Switches
33 COM
COM 3300
3300
++ IOLAN
IOLAN module
module
64
One JBGPU board (= 1 PCU) offers 480 PDCH. Two uses of JBGPUs :
1.
One JBGPU for each BSC, (Ater interface), so one MFS serves a maximum of 22 BSCs.
2.
With 240 PDCH per GPU, a BSC can offer up to 6*240 = 1440 PDCH
3.
Fast ethernet Switches (100 Mb/s) made by 3COM: 2 or 4 (as needed) to build LANs to which are connected
z
GPU boards
printers and craft terminals (for local management, the terminal is called IMT = Installation & Maintenance Terminal)
Page 64
4 Alcatel Solution
4.3 Packet Switched Core Network
SGSN architecture
Gr
CCS
CCSN7
N7
DS10
DS10
CCS
CCSN7
N7
SGSN router
towards
SS7
towards
IP
backbones
DS10
GPU
DS10
Pilot servers
GPU
DS10
E1
GPU
towards
Gb
SGSN server
LSN
DS10
LAN/IO
65
The SGSN main functions are processed by DS10 Nectar servers, other hardware equipments performing the physical interfaces
towards the networks accessed by the SGSN :
z BSS network (Gb = E1 or Frame Relay) via GPU boards,
z SS7 networks (Gs, Gr, Gd, Gc, Gf, SCP) via CMIC couplers,
z GPRS IP backbone(s) (Gn, Gp, Ga, GIN, OMC) via Cisco 7206. routers
The equipments are gathered around two duplicated LAN at 10/100 Mbits/s:
z LSN (Local Sub Network) = 2 fast Ethernet switches :
communication between DS10 servers,
communication between GPU boards and DS10 servers,
communication between ETI boards and the DS10 servers.
z LAN I/O (Local Area Network for Input/Output) = 2 fast Ethernet switches :
communication through IP/Ethernet between the DS10 servers and the SGSN routers
Page 65
4 Alcatel Solution
4.3 Packet Switched Core Network
first rack
third rack
NTS150
NTS150
NTP Server
CCS N7
LAN Gi Gp
GPU
Non-pilot
servers
NS500
NS500
Firewall Server
KVM Switch
Screen Keyboard
pilot
servers
SGSN/GGSN
routers
external DNS
LSN Ethernet
LANIO/Gn
switches
switches
PLMN
DNS/DHCP
66
The E configuration is the smallest one available. It can be software-blocked to 25K, 50K or 75 K MM contexts. Above, the
configuration with co-located GGSN.
zEquipment
zCMIC couplers
zGPU boards
zGb PCM links
zDS10 servers
zShared Disks
zRouters
Quantity
2 to 4
2 to 6
Up to 96
4 (2 Pilots et 2 non Pilots with SS7 adapter)
2x18 Gbytes
2 or 3
Quantity
2 to 4
8
128
12 to 14 (2 Pilots, 10 to 12 Non Pilots with SS7 adapter)
2x18 Gbytes
2 or 3
Power Supply:
z48V DC by a Top Rack Unit inside Each rack (GPU sub-rack, Fans, CMIC sub-rack, SGSN router).
z230V AC in Direct Link for each Non Pilot DS10, secured link for the Pilot DS10, Fast Ethernet Switches and RS232
concentrators.
The GPU redundancy functionality is not provided in Release 2
Page 66
4 Alcatel Solution
4.4 GPRS Network Management
Dedicated OMCs
BSC1
B
T
S
B
T
S
Radio part
B
T
S
BSC2
OMC
-R
MFS
NMC
Q3
SGSN
DNS/DHCP
NTP
BG
GGSN
Charging
Gateway
67
the GGSN.
Page 67
4 Alcatel Solution
4.5 Alcatel QoS offer
Mean throughput
class
Precedence class
Alcatel Offer
Resulting QoS class
any
any
Best-Effort
1, 2 or 3
any
Best-Effort
1, 2 or 3
Best Effort
Best-Effort
1, 2 or 3
specified, except BE
Normal
1, 2 or 3
specified, except BE
Premium
Reliability class:
as required by the MS
68
These QoS attributes are associated with a PDP context performed by a R97/98 MS
The five QoS parameters of the standard define more than 60 combinations ! Which is too much and leeds to simplification :
z Too complex to implement,
z Many of the combinations have no meaning!
z The standard "allows" more simple QoS implementations.
- = any value.
In bold, the main criterion for definition of the resulting QoS.
Best effort = inexpensive, comparable to the Internet (no commitment). Ideal for foraging on the internet.
Normal:
Comparable to an intranet.
Premium:
Page 68
4 Alcatel Solution
4.5 Alcatel QoS offer
conversational
Premium
streaming
Premium
interactive
Premium
interactive
Normal
interactive
Normal
background
Best Effort
69
The mapping of R97/98 QoS attributes to R99 QoS is applicable in the following cases :
hand-over of PDP context from GPRS R97/R98 SGSN to GPRS R99 or UMTS SGSN
when a R99 MS performs a PDP context activation in a R99 SGSN with a R97/98 GGSN
when the SGSN has received R97/98 QoS subscribed profile, but the MS is R99
The mapping of R99 QoS attributes to R97/98 QoS is applicable in the following cases :
PDP context is handed-over from GPRS R99 to R97/R98
when a R99 MS performs a PDP context activation in a R99 SGSN while the GGSN is R97/98
when the SGSN sends user data to the BSS for a R99 MS
when the SGSN has received R99 QoS subscribed profile but the MS is R97/98
in the new SGSN, during an inter-SGSN RA_update procedure, or inter-system change, on receipt of the R99 QoS
attributes from the old SGSN
Page 69
4 Alcatel Solution
Exercise (1/2)
True or False?
Time allowed :
5 minutes
70
Page 70
4 Alcatel Solution
Exercise (2/2)
True or False?
71
Page 71
4 Alcatel Solution
Evaluation
72
Page 72
73
Page 73
5 Annex
Coding Schemes : CS1 -> CS4
20
CS4
CS3
15
CS2
10
CS1
5
0
0
10
20
30
C/I (dBm)
74
The data rate on a PDCH depends on the coding scheme :
z for CS-1: PDCH data rate = 9.05 kbit/s (poor radio conditions or BSS signaling)
z for CS-2: PDCH data rate = 13.4 kbit/s (better radio conditions)
z for CS-3: PDCH data rate = 15.6 kbit/s
z for CS-4: PDCH data rate = 21.4 kbit/s.
The system selects automatically the best coding scheme :
z the data rate is set according to the current C/l.
z maximum data rate (160 kbit/s) only possible with CS4 on 8 parallel channels
Page 74
5 Annex
GPRS compared to other technologies
2 Mbps
Bit rate
384 Kbps
160 Kbps
64 Kbps
9.6 Kbps
Technology
CS data - SMS, 9.6Kbps
HSCSD
GPRS
EDGE
UMTS
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
75
SMS : With GPRS, the 160-character barrier for short messages will be able to be broken (when SMS over GPRS is
implemented).
High Speed Circuit-Switched Data : This still involves circuit switching, meaning that, with a continuous use of radio resources, so
billed by time. HSCSD is based on the assignment of several traffic channels (TCH) to a single MS to offer a higher bit rate.
HSCSD is suited for services requiring a minimum bandwidth guaranteed.
EDGE : (Enhanced data rates for GSM evolution) is a technology previously developed by Ericsson, based on TDMA and offering
a maximum theoretical speed of 384 kbit/s (8 channels, each 48 kbit/s, using a new modulation scheme: 8-PSK, eight-phase shift
keying, instead of GMSK for GSM and GPRS).
EDGE-specific MTs are required! The BSS remains the same, except for the implementation of EDGE TRX (Evolium product
line).
Alcatel will offer EDGE from release B8 onwards. This is an important step towards UMTS
UMTS : requires a new Radio Access Network based on W-CDMA technology.
The UMTS standard is part of the Third Generation (3G). Together with CDMA 2000 and other systems, they form a set of ITU
radio access technologies standardized by IMT 2000.
Page 75
5 Annex
Network Mode of Operation I with Master Channel
CCCH
PCCCH
MSC/VLR
BSS
Gs
(a)
Um
(b)
PACCH
SGSN
Gb
CS paging for GPRS-attached MS in idle state (a), or in data transfer state (b)
CS paging for non GPRS-attached MS
GPRS paging
76
In this mode, the Gs interface is present in the core network. As far as GPRS-attached MS are concerned, the BSS receives both
GPRS and circuit-switched paging messages from the Gb interface.
There is paging co-ordination because all paging messages towards GPRS-attached mobile stations are sent either on the Master
Channel, if present, or on the CCCH otherwise.
In addition, whilst involved in a packet data transfer the GPRS mobiles receive the circuit-switched paging messages via the
GPRS traffic channel currently used.
NMO II :
z There is neither Gs interface nor Master Channel. There Paging coordination over the CCCH of GSM. Also, GPRS Mobile
Stations operating in Class B may lose CS Paging message if they are not able to monitor CCCH at the same time.
NMO III:
z In this mode, there is no Paging coordination because Gs interface is not present while the Master Channel is. Therefore,
CS Paging is transmitted over CCCH when PS Paging is transmitted over PCCCH. Class C Mobile are not able to
manage both type of channels.
Page 76
5 Annex
GMM - Combined GPRS and NSS attach with Gs (1)
HLR
SGSN
Attach_request (IMSI)
Triplet request
Authentication
Update_location
IMSI current SGSN
Insert_subscriber_data
Update_location_ack
IMSI TLLI + current RA + subscription data
Attach_accept (TLLI)
MS TLLI
77
"Attach" the MS switches on (GMM protocol):
z MS sends his previous P_TMSI, otherwise a random one. The attach_request message is placed in an LLC frame with its
old TLLI if its exists, or a randomly chosen TLLI if not.
TLLI: This is allocated to the subscriber on his attachment to the network. In reality, the SGSN allocates the MS a P-TMSI, from
which the MS and the SGSN itself derive the TLLI.
The functions of the HLR:
z to supply the security triplets
z
Page 77
5 Annex
GMM - Combined GPRS and NSS attach with Gs (2)
SGSN
HLR
MSC/VLR
78
Location-Update-request: The SGSN determines the MSC/VLR based on the RA where the subscriber is located.
At the HLR: If the MS was declared in another MSC, the HLR sends it a Cancel_Location before doing ISD to the new MSC.
Attach-accept: In practice, the SGSN sends the MS the P-TMSI (and not the TLLI) and the V-TMSI (TMSI of the VLR), designated
TMSI here.
Once this combined-attach is done, the MS can make combined LA/RA update procedures (see GSM 03.60)..
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5 Annex
GMM - RA update Inter-SGSN (1)
new
SGSN2
old
SGSN
GGSN
Routing_Area_update_req (RA1)
SGSN_context_req (RA1, TLLI, @SGSN2)
SGSN_context_resp (MM_ctxt, PDP_ctxt)
SGSN_context_ack
transfer of stored packets
Page 79
5 Annex
GMM - RA update Inter-SGSN (2)
new
old
SGSN
SGSN
HLR
Page 80
5 Annex
SMS-MT on GPRS -Gd interface-
HLR
SGSN
SMS-SC
SMS-GMSC
SM transfer
SRI_for_SM ([GPRS supported])
SRI_for_SM_res (MSC@ and/or SGSN@)
forward_SM (SM)
SM transfer
forward_SM_res
report
report
81
Gd: This is the SGSN SMS-GMSC interface.
The HLR must include the option F_GPRS_002 "Support of SMS-MT over GPRS" to enable transmission of SMs to the MSs
(which have this subscription option) via GPRS.
SRI: If the SMS-GMSC supports GPRS, it tells the HLR so.
SRI-res: The HLR sends back the following addresses:
z MS IMSI-attached only: VMSC@
z MS GPRS-attached only: SGSN@
z MS both IMSI and GPRS attached:
SMS-GMSC does not support GPRS: One address returned according to MS preference option.
SMS-GMSC supports GPRS: Both addresses returned. The SMS-GMSC first performs transfer through NSS or
GSS according to an option. If the transfer to the MS fails (Forward-SM-res), the SMS-GMSC repeats the attempt
through the second network.
If the delivery through the GSS fails, the HLR sets the MNRG flag and stores the address of the SMS-GMSC.
Page 81
5 Annex
"Mobile User Activity" Procedure
SGSN
HLR
SMS_GMSC
GPRS_Attach_request
If MNRG=1
MNRG 0
Ready_for_SM (IMSI)
Alert_Service_Center
Alert_Service_Center_ack
82
Mobile user activity procedure: When the MS is reattached, the HLR indicates this to the SMS-GMSC (conventional GSM
"alerting" procedure) and to all the GGSNs which had tried in vain to activate PDP contexts to this MS.
The SGSN sends Ready-for-SM to the HLR before sending the update location message.
The SMS-GMSC obviously alerts the SMSC which makes a new attempt to deliver the SM to the mobile (as in the previous slide).
Page 82
5 Annex
SM - PDP context activation review
IMSI TLLI
SGSN
- @ MS + IP/X25
- APN
- QoS
+ subscription data
GGSN1
HLR
83
The SGSN even knows the current cell, if the mobile is in the ready state by looking at the routing over the Gb interface of the
PDU originated by the MS. For further explanation, please refer to the sub-chapter The Base Station Sub-System, The Gb
interface
Page 83
5 Annex
The Gb interface - Frame Relay overview
User connected to the frame relay network through a synchronous access line
Based on semi-permanent connection, PVC
A PVC is identified on each end by a local connection identity : DLCI
possible control of data loss (use of CRC)
User to network signaling is carried by a specific PVC tagged with the DLCI0
access line
PVC
DLCI
=p
DLCIm
DLC
I
=m
DLCI=0 (Sig)
DLCIa
Frame
Relay
PVC
DLCIp
DLCIb
PVC
access line
84
Access Line = any synchronous line would do.
On a FR access line, there can be a large number of PVCs (Permanent Virtual Circuits), identified each by a DLCI, (Data Link
Connection Identifier), different on each side + a PVC for signaling (DLCI=0).
Data Loss: all frames have a CRC field used to determine if the data (payload) is correct or not. The network discards any frame
with an erroneous payload.
user-to-network signaling is to check the
z local availability of the FR link ("Link Integrity Verification procedure)
z end-to-end availability of each user's PVC ("Full Status Report" procedure)
Security (redundancy): the user to the right has 2 access lines.
Page 84
5 Annex
The Gb interface - physical layer
PCU1
BSSGP
Frame
Relay
BSSGP
NSC
SNS
NSC
BCa = all TS
Physical
layer
SNS
PCMa
BSSGP
PCM1
Frame
Relay
NSC
PCMb
Gb
SNS
Physical
layer
Physical
layer
SGSN
BCb
Gb
PCM2
PCU2
PCM
Bearer Channel
85
Physical layer = PCM links from the JBGPU boards.
It is best to connect the MFS and the SGSN to the FR network by two PCM links for added protection.
Bearer Channel: This is N x 64 kbit/s over a 2048 kbit/s link
z N time slots on one PCM link
z FR access line.
SGSN end, a BC can recover all the TSs of the PCM link to have the fastest possible access to the FR network.
MFS end, on a BC, only one PVC will be declared (option chosen by Alcatel for simplicity). Therefore, for security: two BCs per
BSC, each on a different PCM link (see next slides).
If no FR network, the declarations of the physical and SNS layers must be the same at both ends.
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5 Annex
The Gb interface - SubNetwork Service layer
PCU1
BSSGP
Frame Relay
NSC
BSSGP
BC1
DLCIm
SNS
Physical
layer
PVC2
Frame
Relay
PVC3
NSC
BC4
SNS
DLCIr
PVC4
DLCIo
SNS
Physical
layer
DLCIp
PVC1
BSSGP
NSC
BCa
Gb
Physical
layer
Gb
SGSN
PVC
Bearer Channel
PCU2
86
The FR layer is part of the layer 2 in OSI model = Sub-Network Service layer (2.1). On top of this layer, and for telecom and
quality of service purposes was added the Network Service Control layer (2.2).
The "Bearer Channel" object of GPRS corresponds to the notion of FR access line. On a BC, there can be several PVCs
(Permanent Virtual Circuits), each identified by a DLCI, which may be different at each end.
Alcatel has set the limit on the BSS (MFS) side, to one PVC per BC.
Several PVCs are needed:
z firstly because a PVC is used for traffic with a given BSC (and therefore several BSCs means several PVCs)
z secondly to provide security at Frame Relay level by introducing redundancy
There is also, on each BC, a virtual link (with DLCI=0) for signaling with the FR switch.
Page 86
5 Annex
The Gb interface - Network Service Control layer
PCU1
BSSGP
BSC1
NSC
NS-VCI= 11
NSEI=x
SNS
Physical
layer
BSSGP
NS-VCI=12
Frame
Relay
NS-VCI=14
SNS
Physical
layer
NSC
NS-VCI=13
NSC
BSC2
BSSGP
Gb
SNS
Physical
layer
NSEI=y
Gb
SGSN
PCU2
NS-VC
NSE
87
The Network Service Control layer is used:
z To transport BSSGP frames between MFS and SGSN
z To manage FR virtual circuits (offering in particular a common identifier for the PVCs: these are the NS-VCs (Network
Service layer - Virtual Circuit) thanks to a range of standard procedures : (un)block, reset and test.
z To share dynamically the UL/DL traffic (BSC to SGSN) over the existing NS-VCs of the same NSE
Multiplexing scheme: 1 NS-VC = 1 PVC.
NSE = Network Service Entity, identified by its NSEI, representing the packet traffic to/from a given BSC. The NSE = NS-VCs
dedicated to the packet traffic for one BSC. NSEI is information included in the messages between SGSN and MFS.
Page 87
5 Annex
The Gb interface - BSS GPRS Protocol
PCU1
BVCI=i
BVCI=j
BSC1
BVCI=k
NSC
BVC
I=
i, BV
CI=j
,B
SNS
VCI=
k
BSSGP
Physical
layer
BVCI=m
BV
m
CI=
C
, BV
, BV
I= n
CI=
BVCI=n
SNS
BSC2
BVCI=p
NSC
NSC
Physical
layer
SNS
cell
Physical
layer
BVC
PCU2
SGSN
Gb
NSE
88
BVC = BSSGP Virtual Connection.
z One BVC for each cell (Point-To-Point BVC) to identify traffic to a particular cell within a NSE.
z One BVC-SIG (identified by BVCI0 : the fine black line) for signaling with the BSC (one per NSE).
The standard also provides for BVC-PTMs. Not implemented.
NSEI and BVCI are information items included in all messages between SGSN and MFS. This information must be consistent on
either sides of the Gb interface.
Review of the role of the BSSGP:
z to relay LLC frame (one LLC frame encapsulated into one BSSGP frame) and offer QoS over the Gb
z BVC management = management of packet traffic flow for a cell (DL flow control mechanisms, BVC supervision
procedures, etc)
z MFS-SGSN signaling for LLC relay management and MS mobility management
Page 88
5 Annex
R97/98 QoS attributes
Precedence
R e lia b il it y
C la s s
Precedence Name
Interpretation
High priority
Normal priority
Low priority
GTP M ode
L L C F ra m e
M ode
L L C D a ta
P r o t e c t io n
R L C B lo c k
M ode
A c k n o w le d g e d
A c k n o w le d g e d
P ro te c te d
A c k n o w le d g e d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
A c k n o w le d g e d
P ro te c te d
A c k n o w le d g e d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
P ro te c te d
A c k n o w le d g e d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
P ro te c te d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
U n p r o te c te d
U n a c k n o w le d g e d
T r a f f ic T y p e
N o n r e a l-tim e tra ffic ,
e r ro r- s e n s itiv e
a p p lic a tio n t h a t c a n n o t
c o p e w ith d a ta lo s s .
N o n r e a l-tim e tra ffic ,
e r ro r- s e n s itiv e
a p p lic a tio n t h a t c a n
c o p e w ith in f re q u e n t
d a ta lo s s .
N o n r e a l-tim e tra ffic ,
e r ro r- s e n s itiv e
a p p lic a tio n t h a t c a n
c o p e w ith d a ta lo s s ,
G M M /S M , a n d S M S .
R e a l-t im e tr a f fic , e rr o r s e n s it iv e a p p lic a t io n th a t
c a n c o p e w it h d a ta lo s s .
R e a l-t im e tr a f fic , e rr o r
n o n - s e n s itiv e a p p lic a t io n
th a t c a n c o p e w ith d a ta
lo s s .
89
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90
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91
Page 91
SMS-C: SMS-Center
SNDCP: Sub Network-Dependent Convergence
Protocol
Page 92
GSM 04.60
MS supporting GPRS
GSM 08.18
EN 301 347 (GSM 09.60) GPRS Tuneling Protocol (GTP) across the Gn and Gp interface
TR 10.18
O&M in GPRS
(GSM 10.18)
GPRS charging
93
New ETSI standard designations:
z EN = ETSI Standard
z TS = Technical Specification
z TR = Technical Report
z TS and TR are less constraining than a true standard (EN).
The designation GSM xx.xx remains valid.
Page 93