GSM Network Overview

Access Network: Base Station Subsystem Core Network: GSM CS network

HLR

VLR

EIR

AuC

Mobile Station

BTS

BSC

SS7

MSC

PSTN

BTS

Um
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Abis

GSM Network Protocols

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GSM Signaling Protocols

Layer 1 (physical layer) Uses many channel structures Layer 2 (data link layer) Across Um interface uses LAPDm (a slight modification of LAPD protocol used in ISDN) Across Abis uses LAPD Across A interface, uses MTP and SCCP of SS7 SAPI=0 Identifies radio signaling procedures Layer 3 is sub-divided into 3 sub-layers
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Layer 3 Signaling Protocols

RR: Radio Resources Management Establishment, maintenance, and termination of radio channels that allow point-to-point dialogue between network and mobile stations; including cell selection and handover procedures MM: Mobility Management Manages location updating, registration, security and authentication procedures CM: Connection Management Handles general call control, similar to CCITT Recommendation Q.931, and provides supplementary services & Short Message Services (SMS)

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Handover
Four types of handovers: Channels (time slots) in same cell Between cells within same BSC Between BSCs, within same MSC Between MSCs

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MAP (Mobile Application Part)

SS7 top layer protocol Responsible for signaling between different entities in network, such as between HLR and VLR MAP specification is complex Several variants for the big manufacturers (Ericsson, Motorola )

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Summary
GSM is the dominant cellular technology today GSM offers high quality voice with advanced services GSM is the stepping-stone to 3G networks

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