21PEC57/Mobile Communication

Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

UNIT II MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEM

GSM: Architecture, Protocols, Connection Establishment, Frequency Allocation, Routing,

Mobility Management, Security, GPRS, UMTS, Architecture.

CO2: Summarize the generations of telecommunication systems in wireless network.

Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM)

Architecture:

The architecture of GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a carefully structured
and layered system designed to provide reliable and efficient mobile communication. It is
divided into three major subsystems, namely the Mobile Station (MS), the Base Station
Subsystem (BSS), and the Network Switching Subsystem (NSS). These subsystems are
interconnected through standardized interfaces and work together to offer services such as
voice communication, SMS, data transfer, mobility management, and roaming. The main
objective of the GSM architecture is to separate radio-related functionalities from switching
and subscriber-related functions, making the system easier to manage, scalable, and highly
flexible.

Fig: Architecture of GSM

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

The first component of the GSM architecture is the Mobile Station (MS), which refers to the
user’s mobile device along with the SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card. The mobile
equipment contains all the hardware elements needed for communication, such as the
transmitter, receiver, antenna, keypad, display, and battery. It also has a unique identifier called
the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), used to identify the device. The SIM card
stores essential subscriber information including the IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber
Identity), authentication key (Ki), encrypted security parameters, and service details. The SIM
enables user identity portability, meaning a user can insert their SIM into any GSM-compatible
device and still access their subscribed services. The Mobile Station communicates with the
network over radio channels and is responsible for handling functions such as signal
measurement, encryption, authentication, and reporting signal strength to the BTS.

The MS communicates with the Base Station Subsystem (BSS), which manages the radio
interface between the network and the mobile device. The BSS consists of two important
components: the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) and the Base Station Controller (BSC). The
BTS is the radio equipment that handles transmission and reception of signals to and from the
mobile devices. It contains antennas, transceivers, amplifiers, and signal processors. Each BTS
defines the coverage area of a cell and broadcasts control information that mobile devices
require to attach to the network. The BTS provides radio channels for voice, data, and signaling.
Above the BTS is the BSC, which acts as its controller. The BSC manages several BTS units
and is responsible for radio resource allocation, frequency management, handover control,
power level adjustments, and traffic concentration. The BSC performs tasks that ensure
efficient utilization of the radio spectrum and smooth transitions when a user moves from one
cell to another. Together, the BTS and BSC form the entire radio access portion of the GSM
network.

Beyond the BSS lies the Network Switching Subsystem (NSS), which performs the core
functions of switching, routing, subscriber management, and security. The central element of
the NSS is the Mobile Switching Center (MSC). The MSC is responsible for setting up,
maintaining, and terminating calls. It also handles routing of voice and data to other networks
such as PSTN or ISDN. The MSC communicates with several important databases that help
manage mobility and subscriber information. The Home Location Register (HLR) is a

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

permanent database that stores long-term details about every subscriber, such as the IMSI,
subscribed services, and current location (in terms of which VLR area the subscriber is
registered in). The Visitor Location Register (VLR) is a temporary database that stores
information about subscribers who are currently active or roaming within the MSC’s service
area. When a user moves into a new location area, the VLR updates the HLR to ensure accurate
tracking of the subscriber.

Another important component of NSS is the Authentication Center (AUC), which stores the
secret authentication key (Ki) for each subscriber and generates authentication vectors to verify
the identity of the user. This provides protection against fraud and unauthorized access. The
Equipment Identity Register (EIR) is a database that stores information about mobile devices
identified by their IMEI number and helps in blocking stolen, invalid, or unauthorized
equipment from using the network. These NSS components work together with the MSC to
ensure secure, reliable, and efficient connectivity.

Overall, the GSM architecture provides a highly modular and robust framework for mobile
communication. By dividing the network into subsystems with specific responsibilities, radio
communication handled by the BSS, subscriber and switching functions managed by the NSS,
and user-based functions performed by the MS—the GSM system achieves high performance,
excellent mobility support, international roaming capability, and strong security. This well-
organized architecture is one of the primary reasons why GSM became the most widely
adopted mobile communication standard worldwide.

Protocols

GSM uses a structured and layered set of protocols to manage communication between mobile
stations, base stations, and the core network. These protocols are divided into several layers,
where each layer is responsible for specific tasks such as signaling, mobility management, call
control, encryption, and data transfer. GSM protocol architecture follows a modified OSI
model and ensures that communication takes place in a secure, efficient, and organized manner.
The entire GSM protocol stack is divided into three major protocol groups: Radio Interface
Protocols, Network Protocols, and Transport/Signalling Protocols. Together, these

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

protocols enable seamless voice calls, SMS transmission, location updates, authentication, and
roaming.

The Radio Interface Layer forms the lowest part of the GSM protocol stack. It is responsible
for managing the communication between the Mobile Station (MS) and the Base Transceiver
Station (BTS). This layer deals with physical transmission of data, modulation, channel coding,
interleaving, burst formatting, encryption, and frequency hopping. It includes the Physical
Layer (Layer 1), which handles the radio channel structure, time slots, frequency allocation,
and power control. Above the physical layer is the Data Link Layer, also called the LAPDm
protocol, which provides reliable data transfer over wireless channels. LAPDm is a modified
version of LAPD used in ISDN, providing connection-oriented signalling with error detection
and correction. It ensures that data frames exchanged between the MS and BTS are valid,
properly sequenced, and acknowledged.

The next major group is the Network Layer Protocols, which operate mainly between the
Base Station Controller (BSC), Mobile Switching Center (MSC), and other core network
elements. The most important network-layer protocols are RR (Radio Resource
Management), MM (Mobility Management), and CC (Call Control).
The Radio Resource (RR) Protocol manages the allocation and release of radio channels. It
controls functions such as channel assignment, handover decisions, power regulation, timing
advance, and measurement reporting. RR ensures that every mobile user receives a proper time
slot or frequency without interference.
The Mobility Management (MM) Protocol handles the authentication of subscribers and

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

maintains user location information. MM manages processes such as location update, IMEI
checking, TMSI assignment, and roaming. It ensures that the network always knows which
location area the subscriber belongs to so call routing becomes possible.
The Call Control (CC) Protocol handles all procedures for call establishment, maintenance,
and termination. CC follows the ISDN-based Q.931 signaling structure and manages both
mobile-originated and mobile-terminated calls. It executes call setup messages, alerting
signals, call clearance, and connection supervision.

In addition to these, GSM also includes Supplementary Service Protocols used for services
such as call waiting, call forwarding, call barring, conference calling, and SMS-related
signaling. These supplementary services share the same signaling link but operate using
specific protocol groups defined in the GSM specifications.

To support communication between the Base Station Subsystem (BSS) and the Network
Switching Subsystem (NSS), GSM uses a dedicated signaling protocol called BSSAP (Base
Station System Application Part). BSSAP is divided into two components: DTAP (Direct
Transfer Application Part) and BSSMAP (BSS Management Application Part). DTAP
transfers messages related to MM and CC between the MS and MSC. BSSMAP manages
handovers, paging, channel assignment, and other BSS-level control functions. Both DTAP
and BSSMAP operate on top of the Signalling System No. 7 (SS7) stack.

In the core network, GSM uses SS7 signalling, particularly the MAP (Mobile Application
Part) protocol. MAP handles communication between HLR, VLR, MSC, SMSC, AUC, and
EIR. It enables user authentication, location registration, roaming coordination, SMS delivery,
and subscriber data exchange. MAP is essential for supporting global roaming because it
connects GSM networks across different countries.

The entire GSM protocol stack is supported by reliable transport protocols such as MTP
(Message Transfer Part) and SCCP (Signalling Connection Control Part) of the SS7
family. These provide routing, error detection, sequencing, and reliable delivery of signalling
messages across the GSM network.

Connection Establishment:

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

Connection establishment in GSM is the process by which a mobile subscriber sets up a call
with another user or receives a call from the network. It involves several coordinated
procedures performed across the Mobile Station (MS), Base Station Subsystem (BSS), and
Network Switching Subsystem (NSS). The entire process includes channel access,
authentication, assignment of radio resources, call routing, and finally establishing a dedicated
traffic channel. GSM uses a series of signaling exchanges to ensure secure and reliable setup
of both mobile-originated and mobile-terminated calls.

When a mobile-originated call (user makes a call) occurs, the process begins when the
subscriber dials a number and presses the call button. The Mobile Station first checks for the
availability of an appropriate control channel. It typically uses the Random Access Channel
(RACH) to send an access request to the network. The request contains information such as the
mobile station’s identity and the reason for access. The nearest Base Transceiver Station (BTS)
receives the request and forwards it to the Base Station Controller (BSC) through the Base
Station System. The BSC then assigns a Stand-alone Dedicated Control Channel (SDCCH) to
the mobile device through an Access Grant Channel (AGCH). The SDCCH is used to perform
critical signaling processes before a full traffic channel can be provided.

Once the mobile device receives the SDCCH assignment, the next step is authentication. The
network verifies the identity of the subscriber using the authentication triplets generated by the
Authentication Center (AUC). The AUC sends a random challenge (RAND) to the mobile
station through the network. Using the secret key Ki stored in the SIM, the mobile station

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

performs an encryption algorithm (A3) to compute a response (SRES), which it sends back to
the network. If the response matches the expected value in the AUC, authentication is
successful. Immediately after authentication, the network may initiate encryption activation
using the A5 algorithm to secure the radio link and protect the call from eavesdropping.

Next, the location and call setup signaling phase begins. After authentication and encryption,
the Mobility Management (MM) and Call Control (CC) protocols handle the exchange of
messages required for the call setup. The mobile station sends a “call setup” request specifying
the number dialed. The MSC checks the subscriber’s profile in the HLR/VLR to confirm
whether the user is allowed to make the requested call. If allowed, the MSC proceeds to
establish a route toward the dialed number, either within the same network or toward the
PSTN/ISDN.

Once routing is confirmed, the network begins the traffic channel (TCH) assignment. The
BSC selects an available traffic channel, either a frequency/time slot combination (in GSM’s
TDMA structure), and instructs the BTS to allocate this channel to the mobile station. A
“Channel Assignment” message is transmitted to the MS, directing it to tune to the assigned
frequency and time slot. The mobile station synchronizes with the new channel and confirms
successful switching by sending an acknowledgment. At this stage, the dedicated connection
for voice or data has been established, and the speech or data transmission can begin.

In the case of a mobile-terminated call (incoming call), the process starts at the MSC. When
a call arrives for a subscriber, the MSC queries the HLR to determine the user’s current location
area. The HLR responds with the address of the corresponding VLR. The MSC sends a paging
request to all BTSs in that location area. All mobile stations in that area receive the paging
message, but only the intended MS recognizes its Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity
(TMSI) or IMSI. The MS responds using the RACH, after which the BSC assigns an SDCCH
just like in the mobile-originated case. Authentication, encryption, and call setup procedures
follow in the same order. After confirmation, a traffic channel is assigned, and the MS rings,
allowing the user to answer the call.

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

Frequency Allocation:

Frequency allocation in GSM refers to the systematic distribution and organization of radio
frequency bands used for mobile communication. Since GSM operates on the principle of
cellular reuse, proper allocation of frequencies ensures that each cell has sufficient channels
for communication while minimizing interference between adjacent cells. GSM typically
operates in standardized frequency bands such as 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 1900 MHz. In the
GSM-900 band, the uplink frequency (from MS to BTS) ranges from 890–915 MHz, and the
downlink frequency (from BTS to MS) ranges from 935–960 MHz, providing 25 MHz of
paired spectrum. Similarly, GSM-1800 uses 1710–1785 MHz for uplink and 1805–1880 MHz
for downlink.

The available spectrum is divided into multiple carrier frequencies, each of which is separated
by 200 kHz bandwidth. These carrier frequencies are used to support individual time slots
within the TDMA frame structure. In each cell, one or more carriers are assigned depending
on traffic demand. The role of the Base Station Controller (BSC) is crucial in determining how
carriers are utilized within the BTS and how channels are assigned to users dynamically. To
prevent interference, GSM uses frequency planning techniques such as frequency reuse, where
the same set of frequencies can be repeated in nonadjacent cells. The reuse factor (usually 3, 4,
7, or higher) depends on the density of the traffic and the geographic nature of the region.

In addition to static planning, GSM employs dynamic frequency allocation wherein the BSC
monitors channel quality and shifts traffic to frequencies that experience less interference.
Other mechanisms, such as frequency hopping, also help in improving signal quality by rapidly
changing carrier frequency at the mobile station and BTS. Overall, frequency allocation
ensures efficient use of the limited radio spectrum, reduces co-channel and adjacent-channel
interference, and supports smooth communication for millions of users simultaneously.

Routing

Routing in GSM refers to the process of determining how calls and messages travel from one
user to another through the GSM network or external networks. A GSM call passes through
several network components, including the MSC, HLR, VLR, and sometimes the PSTN or

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

ISDN. The routing procedure is different for mobile-originated (MO) and mobile-terminated
(MT) calls. When a mobile user initiates a call, the Mobile Station first establishes a connection
with the nearest BTS, which forwards the request to the BSC and then to the MSC. The MSC
checks the subscriber profile in the VLR and determines if the call is allowed. If the destination
user is within the same MSC area, the MSC performs internal routing and connects both users
through the switching fabric.

If the destination user belongs to another MSC or another network, the call is routed through
the appropriate gateway. For calls leaving the GSM network, the Gateway MSC (GMSC) is
responsible for interfacing with external networks like PSTN or ISDN. When an incoming call
is received at the GMSC, the network queries the HLR to determine the location of the called
subscriber. The HLR provides the address of the serving MSC/VLR, and the call is routed
accordingly. The serving MSC then performs paging within the location area, sets up signaling
through the BSS, and completes the call.

The routing process ensures that even if a user is roaming, the network can locate and route
calls accurately. GSM routing also supports intelligent features such as supplementary services,
number portability, SMS delivery, and handover routing. SMS routing, for instance, makes use
of the SMSC (Short Message Service Center), which stores and forwards messages based on
the recipient’s availability. Thus, routing in GSM is an essential function that enables seamless
connectivity across networks and geographic boundaries.

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

Mobility Management:

Mobility Management in GSM refers to all the procedures that allow subscribers to move freely
within the network while maintaining continuous service. GSM supports both idle-mode and
active-mode mobility. In idle mode, the system keeps track of the mobile’s location at the
granularity of a Location Area (LA). Each location area contains several cells and is identified
by a Location Area Identity (LAI). When a mobile station moves from one location area to
another, it performs a Location Update procedure, informing the VLR and MSC about its new
location. The VLR then updates the HLR accordingly, ensuring accurate routing of incoming
calls.

While the user is engaged in a call, mobility management handles handover. A handover
occurs when the subscriber moves from one BTS coverage area to another and the signal
quality drops below acceptable levels. The BSC continuously monitors signal strength and
quality through measurement reports sent by the mobile station and BTS. Based on this
information, the BSC or MSC decides when to perform a handover. GSM supports several
types of handovers: intra-cell, inter-cell, inter-BSC, and inter-MSC handovers. During
handover, the network assigns a new channel in the target cell, and the mobile station switches
seamlessly without dropping the call.

Mobility Management also includes authentication, ciphering, and temporary identity

assignment. When a subscriber registers in a new location area, the network may authenticate
the user by verifying the SIM credentials through the AUC. To protect user identity, GSM
assigns a Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI), preventing repeated transmission of

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

the IMSI over the air. Ciphering keys are also updated to secure communication. The VLR and
HLR keep track of the subscriber’s status, location, and activity, ensuring that no matter where
the user moves, the network always knows where to deliver calls and messages.

GSM Security:

Security in GSM is implemented through a combination of authentication procedures,

encryption mechanisms, temporary identity assignment, and equipment validation. These
features are essential to protect subscribers from fraud, prevent unauthorized access, secure
user data, and maintain privacy during communication. GSM security is built into both the
radio interface and the core network, ensuring that each step, from user registration to call
establishment, is performed securely. The GSM security model relies on three fundamental
pillars: subscriber authentication, confidentiality through encryption, and anonymity
through temporary identities. All of these mechanisms work together within the GSM
architecture to create a secure communication environment.

The first major component of GSM security is subscriber authentication, which ensures that
only legitimate users can access network services. This process is performed using a secret key
known as Ki, stored securely in the SIM card and in the Authentication Center (AUC) of the
network. When a user attempts to connect to the network, the AUC generates a random
challenge (RAND), which is sent to the mobile station. The SIM uses the Ki and the A3
authentication algorithm to compute a Signed Response (SRES), which is sent back to the
network. Since the network calculates the expected SRES using the same Ki, it can verify

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

whether the subscriber is genuine. This challenge–response procedure ensures that Ki never
leaves the SIM or AUC, making it extremely difficult for attackers to duplicate a user’s identity.

Once the subscriber is authenticated, GSM employs encryption to maintain confidentiality of

the data transmitted over the radio interface. The encryption is performed using the A5 family
of algorithms, where a ciphering key (Kc) is derived from Ki and RAND through the A8
algorithm. This key is used by both the BTS and the mobile station to encrypt and decrypt data.
Encryption protects voice calls, SMS, and signalling messages from being intercepted by
unauthorized parties. Although the encryption applies only between the mobile station and BTS
(not end-to-end), it significantly enhances security on the vulnerable radio link. GSM supports
several versions of A5, with varying strengths, and operators choose the appropriate one
depending on regional security regulations.

Another important aspect of GSM security is user identity confidentiality. To prevent

attackers from tracking a user by repeatedly listening to the transmission of the permanent
identity (IMSI), GSM assigns a Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI). Once the
mobile station completes a location update in a new location area, the network issues a TMSI,
which replaces the IMSI during most signalling procedures. This temporary identity changes
frequently, making it extremely difficult for attackers to trace or identify users. Only in rare
cases, such as initial registration, is the IMSI transmitted over the air.

In addition to securing subscribers, GSM also implements equipment security using the
Equipment Identity Register (EIR). Each mobile device contains an IMEI (International Mobile
Equipment Identity), which is checked against the EIR. The EIR maintains three lists: the
"white list" for authorized devices, the "black list" for stolen or unauthorized devices, and the
"grey list" for devices with suspicious activity. By comparing the IMEI with these lists, the
network can block stolen phones, track malfunctioning devices, and prevent illegal equipment
from operating.

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

General Packet Radio Service (GPRS)

It is an enhancement to the GSM network that introduces packet-switched data transmission,

enabling more efficient and flexible use of radio resources. Unlike GSM, which was originally
designed for circuit-switched voice services, GPRS allows multiple users to share the same
radio channels simultaneously, making it ideal for applications such as mobile internet
browsing, email access, multimedia messaging, and IoT communication. GPRS is often
referred to as a 2.5G technology because it bridges the gap between the second-generation
GSM systems and third-generation mobile networks.

GPRS works by utilizing unused time slots in the GSM TDMA frame structure. Instead of
dedicating a channel to a single user for the entire session (as in circuit switching), GPRS
transmits information in packets, allocating radio resources only when data is being sent or
received. This makes data communication more efficient, especially for applications that
require intermittent transfer, such as browsing or messaging. The use of packet switching also
allows multiple users to share the same channel, improving overall network utilization and
reducing congestion.

To support packet data transmission, GPRS introduces new network nodes within the existing
GSM architecture. The two most important elements are the Serving GPRS Support Node
(SGSN) and the Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN). The SGSN is responsible for
mobility management, session management, and packet delivery within the operator’s network.
It authenticates the user, tracks their location, and forwards data packets between the Base
Station Subsystem (BSS) and the GGSN. The GGSN, on the other hand, serves as the interface
between the GPRS network and external packet data networks such as the Internet. It allocates
IP addresses to mobile devices and routes packets to and from the SGSN.

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

In addition to new core network elements, GPRS requires upgrades to the radio interface
through a component known as the Packet Control Unit (PCU), which may be integrated into
the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) or the Base Station Controller (BSC). The PCU manages
radio resource allocation for packet data, schedules uplink and downlink transmissions, and
handles quality-of-service parameters such as reliability and throughput. GPRS also introduces
coding schemes (CS-1 to CS-4) that define how data is protected against errors. Higher coding
schemes offer faster data rates but are more vulnerable to interference.

From a user’s perspective, GPRS provides several advantages over GSM data services. One
key benefit is the concept of "always-on" connectivity, where users can remain connected to
the network without occupying resources continuously. This makes services like instant
messaging, push email, and online apps more practical. Theoretical GPRS speeds can reach up
to 171.2 kbps, although practical speeds are usually lower due to limited time slot availability
and network conditions.

GPRS also incorporates mobility features similar to those in GSM. The SGSN maintains the
user’s packet session as the mobile device moves across cells or location areas. Handover
procedures ensure continuity of data transmission, although packet loss can occur in weaker
coverage areas. GPRS supports both point-to-point services, such as mobile internet, and point-
to-multipoint services, such as broadcast messaging.

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

Security in GPRS is enhanced compared to GSM due to stronger encryption mechanisms and
separate authentication processes performed at the SGSN. GPRS uses the same SIM-based
authentication system but employs new ciphering algorithms designed specifically for packet
data. However, encryption still occurs only between the mobile station and the SGSN, not
across the entire data path.

Features

• Packet-switched technology
• Always-on connectivity
• Dynamic allocation of time slots
• Supports multiple coding schemes (CS-1 to CS-4)
• Integration with GSM network
• IP-based communication
• Uplink and downlink separation
• Mobility support
• Quality of Service (QoS) parameters
• Supports both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint services

Advantages of GPRS

• Higher data speeds

• Efficient spectrum utilization
• Cost-effective for users
• Supports modern applications
• Enhances GSM infrastructure
• Reliable roaming support
• Better network utilization
• Reduced call setup time
• Strong security features

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

Disadvantages of GPRS

• Lower data speeds compared to modern technologies

• Shared bandwidth
• Higher latency
• Limited time slot availability
• Performance depends heavily on signal quality
• Slow handover process
• No guaranteed Quality of Service (QoS)
• Requires network upgrades
• Encryption applied only between MS and SGSN
• Outdated technology

Applications of GPRS

• Mobile Internet browsing

• Email services
• Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)
• Instant messaging and chat applications
• Location-based services
• Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication
• Remote monitoring
• Online banking and mobile payment services
• Download/upload of small files
• WAP-based services

Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS)

Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) is a third-generation (3G) mobile

communication technology developed by the 3GPP to provide higher data rates, improved
spectral efficiency, and support for multimedia services. UMTS represents a major evolution
from GSM and GPRS by introducing Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA)

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Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

as its primary air interface. This enables UMTS to offer higher capacity, enhanced quality of
service, and support for real-time services such as video calling, mobile TV, and high-speed
internet browsing.

UMTS integrates both circuit-switched and packet-switched domains, making it suitable for
voice as well as broadband data services. It provides data rates of up to 384 kbps for mobile
users and up to 2 Mbps for stationary subscribers. By using wideband radio channels of 5 MHz
and advanced spreading codes, UMTS allows multiple users to share the same frequency band
efficiently. UMTS networks also adopt all-IP architecture in later releases, paving the way for
HSPA (3.5G) and LTE (4G).

UMTS relies on a layered and modular architecture that separates the radio access network
from the core network. This separation allows flexible deployment strategies and simplifies
upgrades when new technologies such as HSPA and LTE are introduced. The core network of
UMTS supports mobility management, call/session control, authentication, and interworking
with external networks. UMTS is also backward compatible with GSM, allowing seamless
roaming and sustained global connectivity.

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

UMTS Architecture

The UMTS architecture consists of three major components:

1. User Equipment (UE)

2. UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN)
3. Core Network (CN)
1. User Equipment (UE)

The UE is the subscriber’s mobile device, which includes a handset, software, and a Universal
Subscriber Identity Module (USIM). The USIM stores authentication information, encryption
keys, subscriber identity, and user profiles. The UE communicates with the UTRAN through
the WCDMA interface (Uu interface). It supports features such as mobility management, radio
resource control (RRC), signal measurement, and handovers between cells.

2. UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN)

The UTRAN is responsible for all radio-related functions and forms the bridge between the UE
and the Core Network. It consists of:

a. Node B (Base Station)

Node B is the equivalent of the BTS in GSM. It handles modulation, coding, spreading,
and RF transmission. It supports soft handovers, one of the key advantages of
WCDMA, allowing the UE to remain connected to multiple cells simultaneously,
improving reliability and signal quality.

b. Radio Network Controller (RNC)

The RNC is similar to the BSC in GSM but with more advanced functions. It controls
multiple Node Bs and handles functions such as:

• Radio Resource Management (RRM)

• Handover control (intra- and inter-RNC)

• Power control

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Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

• Load control

• Admission control

• Ciphering and integrity protection

• Mapping of data streams to transport channels

The RNC also interfaces with the Core Network through two domains: Circuit-Switched (CS)
and Packet-Switched (PS).

UTRAN uses the Iub interface between RNC and Node B, Iur between RNCs, and Uu for UE-
to-Node B communication.

3. Core Network (CN)

The UMTS Core Network is built on the GSM core but enhanced for high-speed packet
data. It has two major domains:
a. Circuit-Switched (CS) Domain

Handles traditional voice calls.

Main elements:

• MSC (Mobile Switching Center)

• GMSC (Gateway MSC)

These nodes perform call routing, mobility management, and

interconnection with PSTN/ISDN.

b. Packet-Switched (PS) Domain

Handles internet data and packet services.

Main elements:

• SGSN (Serving GPRS Support Node)

• GGSN (Gateway GPRS Support Node)

Prepared by [Link] Sudharsan, ASP/ECE, VCET

 21PEC57/Mobile Communication

Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

The SGSN tracks subscriber mobility, performs authentication, and forwards

packet data.

The GGSN interfaces with external IP networks and assigns IP addresses to

UEs.

c. Databases
• HLR (Home Location Register)
• VLR (Visitor Location Register)
• AuC (Authentication Center)
• EIR (Equipment Identity Register)

These databases store subscriber profiles, security keys, and equipment identifiers.

UMTS Features:

• WCDMA Air Interface

• High data speeds
• Support for multimedia services
• Soft handover capability
• Enhanced spectral efficiency
• Flexible QoS (Quality of Service)
• Seamless integration with GSM/GPRS
• All-IP evolution path
• Advanced power control
• Support for circuit-switched and packet-switched services
• Improved security

Advantages of UMTS

• Much higher data rates

• Supports simultaneous voice and data
• Superior multimedia experience

Prepared by [Link] Sudharsan, ASP/ECE, VCET

 21PEC57/Mobile Communication

Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

• Soft handover reduces call drops

• High network capacity
• Better QoS control
• Smooth evolution to 3.5G and 4G
• Global roaming support
• Stronger authentication and encryption
• Efficient use of spectrum

Disadvantages of UMTS

• High infrastructure cost

• Requires wider bandwidth (5 MHz)
• Higher power consumption
• Network deployment challenges
• Interference management complexity
• Lower battery life
• Slower initial data rates
• Backward compatibility limitations
• Soft handover requires careful coordination
• Competition from faster technologies

Comparison of GSM, GPRS, UMTS and LTE

Feature GSM GPRS UMTS LTE

Global System Universal Mobile
General Packet
Full Form for Mobile Telecommunications Long-Term Evolution
Radio Service
Communications System
Generation 2G 2.5G 3G 4G
Technology Packet-switched WCDMA OFDMA (DL) & SC-
Circuit-switched
Type overlay on GSM (Wideband CDMA) FDMA (UL)
Channel 200 kHz (shared for
200 kHz 5 MHz 1.4–20 MHz
Bandwidth packet data)
30–80 kbps
Up to 9.6–14.4 50–150 Mbps DL, 10–
Data Rate (theoretical 171 384 kbps to 2 Mbps
kbps 50 Mbps UL
kbps)

Prepared by [Link] Sudharsan, ASP/ECE, VCET

 21PEC57/Mobile Communication

Velammal College of Engineering and Technology (Autonomous), Madurai

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

CS + PS CS + PS (Evolved
All-IP EPC (MME,
Core Network Circuit-switched (SGSN/GGSN RNC,
SGW, PGW)
added) SGSN/GGSN)
Air Interface FDMA/TDMA Same as GSM WCDMA OFDMA/SC-FDMA
Primary Packet data Voice, video call, High-speed broadband
Voice, SMS
Services (Internet) data, multimedia data, VoLTE
Handover
Hard Hard Soft + Hard Hard
Type
Latency High Medium high Lower Very low
Spectral
Low Medium High Very high
Efficiency
Mobility Cell & routing Fast mobility with High-speed mobility up
Basic mobility
Support mobility soft handover to 350 km/h
Strong
Basic encryption Advanced AES/Snow3G
Security Improved ciphering authentication &
(A5) encryption
integrity
Architecture Very high but simplified
Low Moderate High
Complexity (flat architecture)
Video calling, HD video, VoLTE,
Early Internet,
Applications Voice/SMS mobile Internet, online gaming, IoT,
WAP, MMS
streaming broadband

Prepared by [Link] Sudharsan, ASP/ECE, VCET