2 GPRS network elements

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 1 of 24

 2.1 Introduction ....................................................................................3
2.2 NOKIA DX200i ...............................................................................5
2.3 MSCi architecture (1/2)...................................................................6
2.3 MSCi architecture (2/2)...................................................................7
2.4 HLRi architecture (1/3) ...................................................................8
2.4 HLRi architecture (2/3) ...................................................................9
2.4 HLRi architecture (3/3) ................................................................. 10
2.5 BSCi architecture (1/3) ................................................................. 11
2.5 BSCi architecture (2/3) ................................................................. 12
2.5 BSCi architecture (3/3) ................................................................. 13
2.6 SGSN architecture (1/2) ............................................................... 14
2.6 BSCi architecture (2/2) ................................................................. 15
2.7 GGSN architecture (1/2)............................................................... 15
2.7 GGSN architecture (2/2)............................................................... 17
2.8 Charging gateway (CG)................................................................ 18
2.9 Flexi Intelligent Service Node (ISN) .............................................. 19
2.10 Border Gateway (BG) (1/2)......................................................... 20
2.10 Border Gateway (BG) (2/2)......................................................... 21
2.11 Firewall....................................................................................... 22
2.12 Domain Name System................................................................ 23
2.13 Lawful Interception Gateway (LIG) ............................................. 24

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 2 of 24

2.1 Introduction

In this chapter we will have a look at every network element of the NOKIA GPRS network
solution and its units.

GPRS uses the well-known GSM architecture, consisting of BSS and NSS but it also needs
some additional network elements which we will describe in further detail.

In BSS, the BSC is equipped with Packet Control Units (PCU) to adapt the radio resources to
the packet data traffic needs.

The Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) provides basic session and mobility management
functions for packet-oriented traffic. Gateway GPRS Support Nodes (GGSN) store packet
data-relevant subscriber information and cater for the provisioning of various data services,
e.g., browsing the public internet, accessing corporate networks or e-mail exchange.

A Domain Name Server (DNS) converts Unified Resource Locator information (URLs) into
standard IP addresses.

The Charging Gateway (CG) collects charging information from different network elements
like SGSN and GGSN, it consolidates the received data and forwards it to the Customer
Care and Billing Center (CCB).

A Border Gateway links two GPRS networks, e.g., from competing network operators
including security.

The Lawful Interception Gateway provides the governmental authorities with the means to
monitor packet data traffic.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 3 of 24

Typically, all gateways to non-GPRS-networks are equipped with firewalls to prevent any
unauthorized user to breaking in and to filter outgoing traffic following different rules.

The basic routing within the GPRS backbone is handled by standard routers and switches.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 4 of 24

2.2 NOKIA DX200i

NOKIA’s GPRS solution is partially based on the DX200i platform that consists of common
computer units for general tasks, network element specific units and the hardware for system
functions.
We will now link these functionality categories to the GPRS network elements and their
packet data traffic tasks.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 5 of 24

2.3 MSCi architecture (1/2)

We’ll start off with the MSCi architecture.

The OMU (Operation and Maintenance Unit) handles centralized supervision, alarm and
recovery functions. The full system software is stored in the hard disk devices of the OMU.
The STU (Statistical Unit) collects performance and measurement data.
The CHU (Charging Unit) generates and stores charging information.
The VLRU (Visitor Location Register Unit) temporally stores information on the subscribers
currently located in the MSCi service area.
The CM (Central Memory) contains tariffing, signaling, routing and configuration data.
The CMU (Cellular Management Unit) controls the CDSUs of the exchange, and is also
involved in management of the cellular radio network.
The CCMU (Common Channel signaling Management Unit) takes care of CCS7 signaling
management functions. The VANG (Verbal Announcement Generator) is used for playing
recorded announcements. It is a plug-in unit of the CCMU.
The BDCU (Basic Data Communications Unit) contains communication links to the O&M
(Operation and Maintenance) network, the SMSC (Short Message Service Center) and the
Billing Center.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 6 of 24

2.3 MSCi architecture (2/2)

The ET (Exchange Terminal) takes care of external PCM line termination and extracts a
reference signal to better stabilize the CLS clocking signal. The ECET (Echo Canceling
Exchange Terminal) does the same tasks as the ET, but it also supports echo canceling
towards the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). The GSW (Group Switch) is the
actual switching network of the MSCi. The M (Marker) controls and supervises the Group
Switch. The CASU (Channel Associated signaling Unit), PAU (Primary Rate Access Unit),
BSU (Base Station signaling Unit), MFSU (Multi-frequency signaling Unit), and CCSU
(Common Channel signaling Unit) are all signaling units that specialize in certain types of
signaling. The PAU, for example, is used for signaling towards a PBX (Private Branch
Exchange), while the CCSU handles CCS7 signaling functions to other core network
elements and PSTN exchanges. The CLS (Clock System unit) generates clock signals for
synchronization purposes.
The CDSU (Compact Data Service Unit) enables data connections. It contains modem pools
for PSTN terminated data calls, and digital connections towards the ISDN (Integrated
Services Digital Network).

The TGFP (Tone Generator Field Programmable) is a plug-in unit of the Marker which
creates user tones, like the free tone or busy tone. It also generates DTMF (Dual Tone Multi-
Frequency) signals used for user signaling e.g., to arrange voice mail settings.
The MSC/VLR is not involved in GPRS data transfer, but the CCSU supports signaling for
GPRS mobiles as well as SMS delivery. To allow this, NOKIA has implemented the Gs
interface between the MSC/VLR and the SGSN.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 7 of 24

2.4 HLRi architecture (1/3)

The other important network element that co-operates with both, SGSN and GGSN is the
HLRi, we will look at this now. Besides the units we’ve met already in the MSCi section, the
following are found in the HLRi:

The Authentication Centre Unit (ACU) is responsible for the storage of authentication data. It
also provides authentication triplets for user authentication and performs speech encryption
functions.

A Central Memory and Marker (CMM) handles the functions of two different functional
entities: the Central Memory (CM) and the Marker (M). The CM handles the routing functions
of the HLRi, and is responsible for the central functions of CCS7. The M controls and
supervises the GSW. Both Marker and the GSW make up a switchover entity, which is
duplicated for 2n redundancy.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 8 of 24

2.4 HLRi architecture (2/3)

Database Distributor Unit (DBDU) The database distributor unit of the HLR has its main
responsibility in distributing HLR/AUC subscriber related data to the correct unit (HLRU/ACU
pair). This information can come from either the network or from an external administration
terminal.

Equipment Identity Register (EIR) units are installed in the HLRi when services concerning
the equipment identity are needed. The EIR consists of two separate units, the Equipment
Identity Register Unit (EIRU) and the Equipment Main Unit (EMU).

Equipment Main Unit (EMU) contains the main database of the EIRU. The key
responsibilities of the EMU are EIR management and CEIR-EIR interface management.

Equipment Identity Register (EIRU) performs the verification of equipment identities and
provides the network operator with lists of suspicious, stolen, or faulty mobile equipment.

Home Location Register Unit (HLRU) controls the home subscriber database (HOSTEL),
which is used for creating and modifying subscriber data. The HLRU is also involved in call
handling (HLRi inquiry).

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 9 of 24

2.4 HLRi architecture (3/3)

As for circuit-switched services, GPRS-related subscriber information is also stored in the

Home Location Register (HLR). To allow for interworking, NOKIA has implemented a Gr
interface between HLR and SGSN and a Gf interface between EIR and SGSN. An optional
Gc interface between HLR and GGSN can also be implemented. All interfaces use SS7
Mobile Application Part messages handled by the CCSU.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 10 of 24

2.5 BSCi architecture (1/3)

As the BSC is based on the DX200i platform we are already know the details of the basic
units discussed in the previous chapters. Hence, we will concentrate on the three BSC-
specific units:

The group switch we already met in the MSC switches entire PCM channels on 64kbps level.
Thus, a PCM channel as a whole (8 bits) can be switched from any input to any output
channel. The group switch used in the BSC, the GSWB, performs 2 bits and 1 bit switching
that even allows for half rate codec support in the TCSM2. Full rate and enhanced full rate
transcoded speech is switched on a 16kbps level.

For a smaller group switch we don´t need a dedicated marker for switch control. Thus, in the
BSC the marker and the cellular management unit are combined to create the Marker and
Cellular Management Unit (MCMU). The Marker part controls and supervises the GSWB.
The Cellular Management Unit part is responsible for the cells and radio channels. It
manages the configuration of the cellular network.

The BCSU – Base Station Controller Signaling Unit - is the only signaling unit in the BSC. It
handles SS7 signaling between the MSC and the BSC and LAPD signaling between the BSC
and the BTS.

GSWB and MCMU are doubled for redundancy reasons. The BCSUs are implemented with a
n+1 redundancy.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 11 of 24

2.5 BSCi architecture (2/3)

Implementing GPRS requires new plug-in units in the BSC. One Packet Control Unit (PCU)
must be installed into each BCSU of the BSC. One Switching Unit (SW64) must be installed
into each Group Switch (GSW), since there are new internal PCM links with GPRS, and their
numbering is fixed. If needed, new ET cartridges could also be installed. ETs also provide
the physical connection to the SGSN via the Gb interface.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 12 of 24

2.5 BSCi architecture (3/3)

PCU co-operates with the BTS’s Channel Codec Unit (CCU) via the A-bis interface and with
the SGSN using the Gb interface. From a specification point of view the PCU might be
placed anywhere. Nokia chooses to collocate the PCU and the BSC. The tasks of the PCU,
that is, resource allocation to GPRS users based on load, priority and operator defined rules,
are linked very closely to the BSC tasks. All other locations would waste computing power in
either the SGSN or the BTS.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 13 of 24

2.6 SGSN architecture (1/2)

The Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) of a GPRS network is equivalent to the MSC of a
GSM network. It combines the functions of a digital switching platform with those functions
needed to interface between the GSM Base Station Subsystem (BSS) and the IP backbone
networks.
The SGSN is linked to one or several BSCs that can work under the control of different
MSCs.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 14 of 24

2.6 BSCi architecture (2/2)

Like the previously mentioned network elements, NOKIA’s SGSN solution is also based on
the DX200i platform.

The Operation and Maintenance Unit (OMU) handles centralized supervision, alarm and
recovery functions. Also the full system software is stored in the hard disk devices
(Winchester Disk Unit – WDU) of the OMU.

The Exchange Terminal (ET) takes care of electrical synchronization and adaptations of an
external PCM line. The Group Switch – B (GSW-B) is the actual switching network of the
SGSN. It´s able to access single bits out of an 8-bit PCM timeslot.

The Marker part of the Marker and Charging Unit (MCHU) controls and supervises the GSW-
B. The Charging part generates and stores charging information from PAPU and SMMU. The
MCHU also works as a subscriber database distributor for SMMU and performs PTMSI
allocation. Additionally, statistics counters are stored on the MCHUs WDU.

The Clock System Unit (CLS) generates clock signals for synchronization purposes.

The Signaling Mobility Management Unit (SMMU) handles the SS7-based signaling traffic on
the interfaces Gr, Gs, Gd, Gf and Ge. IP based signaling is supported as an option. The main
purpose of this signaling is GPRS Mobility Management (GMM).

The main purpose of the Packet Processing Unit (PAPU) is to process the user data from/to
the BSS and relay it from/to the GPRS backbone network.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 15 of 24

2.7 GGSN architecture (1/2)

The NOKIA GGSN acts as an interface between the GPRS network and the external
networks:

The GGSN enables the use of different data services, e.g. e-mail, web or intranet access and
forwards the data to the SGSN that serves the mobile. All intra-network mobile-to-mobile
connections are made via a GGSN.

The GGSN also routes mobile-originated packets to the correct external network.
The GGSN can serve 3G and GSM subscribers simultaneously.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 16 of 24

2.7 GGSN architecture (2/2)

The NOKIA GGSN router is based on the NOKIA IP 1260 series of internet routers.
In addition, the GGSN contains several network interface cards (NICs) serving the different
protocols:

• Quad port Ethernet 10/100 adapter for SGSN-GGSN connections via LAN or VLAN
• One port serial V.35/X.21 interface (up to 2,048 kbps) for Wide Area Network connections
• One Synchronous Transport Module Level 1 (STM-1) interface for connection to
Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) transport or direct connection to Synchronous Digital
Hierarchy (SDH) trunk lines
• One port to interwork with MSC’s Channel Service Unit (CSU) and Data Service Unit
(DSU) and
• One port High-speed Serial Interface (HSSI). Both these cards are mostly used for US
market implementation
• Additionally, several E1 and ISDN interface cards can be integrated for standard physical
link termination.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 17 of 24

2.8 Charging gateway (CG)

At NOKIA, the Charging Gateway is implemented as a standalone element. It consolidates

raw event records from SGSN and GGSN into CDRs that are the input for CDR post-
processing systems. Nokia Charging Gateway forwards the CDRs to one or more CDR post-
processing systems in a suitable format.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 18 of 24

2.9 Flexi Intelligent Service Node (ISN)

The Nokia Flexi ISN is a combination of GGSN and CG functions that allows operators to
fulfill a broad variety of charging models suited to a wide range of user traffic, while
minimizing the cost of adding new services to the network.

Besides its core GGSN and CG functionality, NOKIA Flexi ISN provides a suite of service-
aware features, which include hit-based and time-based charging. This allows the operator to
define the cost per second, for example, of a video stream and charge separately for it. For
prepaid data users online charging is supported.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 19 of 24

2.10 Border Gateway (BG) (1/2)

The NOKIA Border Gateway (BG) is a packet core network element that provides a direct
connection to other operator’s packet core networks. Subscribers roaming in another
operator packet core network, can have a connection to their home network through the Gp
interface of the Nokia Border Gateway.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 20 of 24

2.10 Border Gateway (BG) (2/2)

BG enables Inter-PLMN and GPRS Roaming Exchange (GRX) connectivity. It provides a

dynamic routing protocol that reduces Inter-PLMN connectivity management work.
Additionally, border security for the operator’s own packet core network is supported,
including the optional encryption of Inter-PLMN traffic ensuring data integrity and
confidentiality between different GPRS operators.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 21 of 24

2.11 Firewall

The Nokia Firewall acts as a Virtual Private Network appliance that allows organizations to
deploy a single, integrated solution for secure IP communications. It supports
authentication, content security, Network Address Translation and basic protection against
denial-of-service attacks, worms and viruses. The Nokia Firewall's clustering feature provides
a scalable high availability solution for operators as the firewall capacity can be increased by
adding Nokia Firewall appliance nodes.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 22 of 24

2.12 Domain Name System

The Domain Name System (DNS) provides the Internet naming structure for the GPRS
network, by translating Web host addresses into numerical IP addresses. Based on the URL
(Unified Resource Locator) requested by the user, the DNS supplies the actual IP address
for the correct access point (in the GGSN) to the Internet. The DNS uses the Berkley Internet
Name Domain (BIND) implementation, which is the most commonly used for UNIX-based
systems. The Nokia DNS is based on Hewlett-Packard servers.

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 23 of 24

2.13 Lawful Interception Gateway (LIG)

The Nokia Lawful Interception Gateway (LIG) provides the essential network functionality
within the Nokia 2G and 3G packet core network for intercepting mobile data traffic. It
includes data communication content and the intercept related information, e.g., originating
and destination addresses.

The Nokia LIG is a scalable system based on the same IPSO software platform as the Nokia
Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN).

GPRS Network Solution, Version 1.0.1  2006 Nokia Corporation Page 24 of 24