Produced by:

MSC Performance Group

Operations and Engineering Department
Vodafone Egypt

We are Developing

GPRS System Survey

GPRS
GPRS Overview
Overview

How are you?

 Contents
 Chapter 1 : Introduction to GPRS

 Chapter 2 : GPRS Air Interface

 Chapter 3 : GPRS BSS

 Chapter 4 : GPRS Backbone

Network

 Chapter 5 : Traffic Cases

 Chapter 6 : GPRS Charging

Chapter 1 : Introduction to GPRS
Introduction to GPRS

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
The Future : Data or Voice ?

All telecommunication network operators are providing to their

customers both voice and data services.
 PSTN networks allow their subscribers to dial up to the internet.
 ISDN networks are specially designed to enhance the PSTN
capabilities in data transmission.
 ADSL Leased lines are increasing.
 GSM networks provide SMS, WAP and Data transmission
services.

Can we predict the demand and future growth of data communication ?

Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Some past predictions

I think there is a world market for maybe five computers

Thomas Watson, Chairman of IBM 1943

There is no reason anyone would want a computer in his home

Ken Olson, Chairman of Digital Equipment Corp. 1977

640 K (RAM) ought to be enough for anybody

Bill Gates 1981

Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
The Future : Data or Voice ?

Tbit/ day
150 Data

125

100

75
Voice
50

25

0
1998 1999 2000 2001
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Mobiles & Internet Parallel Growth

1,000

800

600
(millions)

Mobile
Internet
400

The New
Telecoms
200 World

0
1996 1998 2000 2002 2004
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Penetration Rates of Mobile Phone Users
Year - end 1998
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Data Communication over GSM

Circuit switched.
Services available only when connected.
Consumes large resources of the telecommunication operator.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Data Communication over GSM

GSM provides 4 types of services

 Voice service.

 SMS service

 Fax service.

 Data service
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Limitations of GSM data services

1. Slow data rates

PSTN networks provide rate of 56 kb/s to its users
ISDN networks provide multiples of 64 kb/s to its users

What was the initial rate offered by GSM networks ?

9.6 kbps
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Limitations of GSM data services

1. Slow data rates

Enhancements of GSM data rates: HSCSD
Introducing GSM Phase 2+ allows for Multi-slot capability, a service
known as High Speed Circuit Switched Data, HSCSD.
Using this service allows the assignment of maximum 4 circuit
switched time slots to the same user over the air interface.
Thus the rate of 4 x 9.6 = 38.6 kbps is achievable
The capability of the MS to use this service is dictated by a feature
called the Multi-Slot Class of the MS. It decides how many timeslots
will be assigned to the MS in each direction.
For Internet Model, the uplink and downlink assignment may not be
symmetric. i.e Timeslots assigned in the Rx direction are greater
than those assigned in the Tx direction.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Limitations of GSM data services

1. Slow data rates

Enhancements of GSM data rates: Coding Schemes
Channel Coding is used in the aim of attaining a reliable data link
over the air interface. This is achieved by adding extra bits to the
actual bits to be sent. These bits will be used to detect the
presence of errors and order retransmission.
Coding Scheme 1 (CS1) was the first CS to be used and it adds a
large number of coding bits causing the user rate to be low.
Rate of data over GSM using this CS is 9.6 Kbps
To increase the rate more data will be sent Instead of strong error
correction. This makes the link less reliable but increases the rate.
Coding Scheme 2 (CS2) uses a less number of coding bits allowing
the user rate to reach 14.4 Kbps.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Limitations of GSM data services

1. Slow data rates

Enhancements of GSM data rates: HSCSD + Coding Schemes
Combining the effect of of the HSCSD and CS2 will jump with the
rate to reach 14.4 x 4 = 57.6 kbps which is comparable to the PSTN
rate.
Yet, this bit rate is still low for some applications and consumes
large number of resources creating congestion situations plus, the
service will be expensive to the user.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Limitations of GSM data services

2. Data transfer Communication : Circuit Switching

B C

A D
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Limitations of GSM data services

2. Data transfer Communication : Packet Switching

Info
B C

In
fo

fo
In

A D
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Circuit Switched or Packet Switched

Circuit Switched communication is suitable for data traffic where one or

more of the following cases apply:
Constant band width data flow
Sensitivity to even small connection delays.
For example, circuit switched communication should be used for video
conferences.

Packet Switched communication is suitable for data traffic where one or

more of the following cases apply:
Data sent in bursts
Sensitivity to errors.
For example packet switched communication should be chosen for e-mail,
dispatch traffic, telemetry applications and point of sale.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
General Packet Radio Services

As the mobile data market develops, users will seek out high
performance mobile networks that provide optimal handling of “bursty”
data applications, with alternative tariffing i.e. volume based rather than
time based charging.

GPRS will address these user needs.

Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
What is GPRS ?

GSM-PLMN IP

Enhancement of GSM data transfer capabilities

A new set of bearer services
A new kind of “data-pipe”
Focus on IP-interworking
Quality of Service categories
Packet switching technology
Efficient use of air interface resources
Volume based Charging
Always connected
High data rate
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS End-user Benefits

 Always connected, always on-line

 No need for frequent log on/log off
 Easier to access data services
 Higher speeds
 Volume based charging
 New application
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Operator Benefits

 New packet data services

 Attract various segments
 Content
Efficient radio usage Exclusivity
 Low investment cost Full Service
 Provider (FSP)
New business model
E-commerce

Wireless
ISP

ISP

Connectivity

Bearer
services
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Applications

Applications & services now used with a fixed network, can be used
anywhere.

Mobility will enable completely new applications & services.

The parallel developments in software and hardware technology will be

the key factors in the acceptance of these applications by the market.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Applications: Remote Office

Users get access to their corporate intranet in Europe from a mine site in
South-East Asia. They can read files and download information, just as if
they were in the office.

GPRS enables this because it is based on the TCP/IP protocol, the same
as the Internet and intranets.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Applications: Cars

GPRS makes it easy to send information to and from cars. Drivers could
subscribe to a service for traffic updates, maps, travel information as well
as Internet access.

Car manufacturers and dealers could check up on vehicles remotely, and

inform the driver when the next service is due.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Applications: Image Transfer

The GPRS packet data platform is ideal for ensuring the integrity of the
image and reducing cost.
The journalist does not pay for online time only for the data transmitted.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Other GPRS Applications

ATM Banking Download Mobile access

Vending
Machines billboard to medical
Machines
Connectivity advertisement data
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Point To Point (PTP) Applications

Typical PTP Applications

Messaging (e.g. e-mail).
Remote (and mobile) access to corporate networks.
Internet WEB-browsing.
Credit card validation (point of sales).
Utility meter readings (e.g. electricity, water).
Road toll applications.
Automatic Train Control (ATC).
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Point To Multipoint (PTM) Applications

Typical PTM Applications

PTM multicast (PTM-M)

Message to any subscriber located within a geographical area.
No knowledge about which subscribers that will get the message.
Anyone can be a subscriber of a certain group.

PTM group (PTM-G)

Message to a given set of subscribers located in a geographical
area.
Complete control over which subscribers that will get the
message.
Only appointed members can be a subscriber of a certain group.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Horizontal and Vertical Applications
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
Horizontal and Vertical Applications

Horizontal Vertical
Business Consumer Operations Automation

•Internet •E-mail/messaging •Job Dispatch •Car tolls

•Intranet/Wan access •Internet access •Delivery •Telemetry
•E-mail/Fax •E-commerce •Fleet Management •Vending machines
•Database Access •News Taxi •Meter reading
•Conferencing Police •Surveillance
•Voice IP phone •Field Service •Position tracking
Emergency
Field Sales
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GSM and TDMA/AMPS Coverage
January 1999
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
3G Data Transfer Time
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

AUC Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture
HLR Gr

Gd SMSC
Internet
EIR Gf
PLMN Corporate
Gi LAN
ISDN Gs
X.25
PSTN GWMSC MSC/VLR Network
SGSN GGSN
Gb
Gn

IP Backbone network
BSC/TRC
BSC/TRC
+ PCU
Traffic
Gp

Signaling PLMN
TE MT BTS
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

AUC Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Interfaces
HLR Gr

Gd SMSC
Internet
EIR Gf
Corporate
LAN
Gs
X.25
MSC/VLR Network
SGSN GGSN

SS7 MAP
Gr Register Interface
Gf Fraud Interface
Gd Data Interface IP Backbone network
BSC/TRC + PCU
SS7 BSSAP+
Gs Switching System
Interface PLMN
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

AUC Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Interfaces
HLR

SMSC
Internet
EIR
Corporate
LAN
X.25
MSC/VLR Network
SGSN GGSN
Gb
BSSGP over Frame Relay
Gb BSS Interface

BSSGP . IP Backbone network

NSC . BSC/TRC + PCU
Frame Relay
E1
PLMN
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

AUC Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Interfaces
HLR
GTP over IP
Gn Network Interface SMSC
Internet
GTP . EIR
TCP/UDP . Corporate
IP p Gi LAN
Eth/FR/ATM
X.25
MSC/VLR Network
SGSN GGSN
IP
Gn
Gi Internet Interface
Application .
TCP/UDP .
IP Backbone network
IP p
Eth/FR/ATM BSC/TRC + PCU

Gp

PLMN
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Terminal Equipment (TE)

The Terminal Equipment is the computer terminal that the end-user works on.
This is the component used for the GPRS system to transmit and receive end-
user packet data.
The TE could be for example a laptop computer.
The GPRS system provides IP connectivity between the TE and an Internet
Service Provider or Corporate LAN connected to the GPRS system.
From the TE point of view, you could compare the MT to a modem, connecting
the TE to the GPRS system.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Mobile Terminal (MT)

The Mobile Terminal (MT) communicates with a TE, and over the air with a BTS.
The MT must be equipped with software for the GPRS functionality when used in
conjunction with the GPRS system.
The MT is associated with a subscriber in the GSM system.
The MT establishes a link to an SGSN.
Channel reselection is provided at the radio link between the MT and the SGSN.
The IP connection is static from the TE point of view, that is the TE is not aware
of being mobile and retains its assigned IP address until the MT detaches.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Mobile Station (MS)

The combination of a TE and an MT is a MS (Mobile Station).
The term MS is used when discussing the GPRS features. It can be concluded
from the context which parts would relate to the MT or the TE parts.
Note that the MT and TE parts could actually be in the same piece of equipment.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Mobile Classes
GPRS MSs can operate in three different modes depending on the MS and the
network capabilities:

Class A mode of operation

It allows a MS to have a circuit switched connection at the same time as it is
involved in a package transfer.
Class B mode of operation
It allows a MS to be attached to both CS and PS but it can not use both services
at the same time. However, MS that is involved in a package transfer can receive
a page for circuit switched traffic. The MS can then suspend the packet transfer
for the duration of the circuit switched connection and afterwards resume the
package transfer.
Class C mode of operation
It allows an MS only to be attached to one service at the time. An MS that only
supports GPRS and not circuit switched traffic will always work in class C mode
of operation.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Base Station System (BSS)

The Base Station System (BSS) consists of a Base Station Controller (BSC)
and a Base Transceiver Station (BTS).
The BTS is the radio equipment which transmits and receives information over
the air to let the BSC communicate with MSs in the BSCs service area. A group
of BTSs is controlled by a BSC. The BTS must contain GPRS-specific software.
The BSC provides all the radio-related functions. The BSC has the functionality
to set up, supervise and disconnect circuit-switched and packet-switched calls.
It is a high capacity switch that provides functions including handover, cell
configuration data, and channel assignment. The BSC must be equipped with
GPRS hardware and software when used for GPRS. One or several BSCs are
served by an MSC, and a number of BSCs are served by an SGSN.
The BTS separates the MS-originated circuit-switched calls from packet data
communication, before the BSC forwards CS calls to the MSC/VLR, and PS
data to the SGSN. The protocols towards the BSC are standard GSM
protocols, for the desired compatibility.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Mobile Services Switching Center (MSC)

The Mobile services Switching Center (MSC) performs the telephony switching
functions of the GSM circuit-switched system, like the SGSN switches the GSM
packet-switched traffic.
It controls calls to and from other telephony and data systems, such as the
Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), Integrated Services Digital
Network (ISDN), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), Public Data Networks,
and possibly some private networks.
The SGSN Routing Area (RA) is a subset of the MSC (CS) Location Area (LA).
The SGSN Routing Area is the part of the network that is covered by one
SGSN. An MSC Location Area is a group of BSS cells. The system uses the
LAs to search for subscribers in the active state. An LA is the part of the
network in which a MS may move around without reporting its location to the
network.
There can be several MSCs corresponding to one SGSN. One MSC can also
be connected to several SGSNs.
Introduction

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Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Visitor Location Register (VLR) Functionality in SGSN and in MSC

The Visitor Location Register (VLR) database contains information about all
mobile stations currently located in the MSC location area or SGSN routing area
respectively.
The SGSN contains the VLR functionality for packet-switched communication.
Similarly, Ericsson MSC contains the circuit-switched VLR as an integrated part.
The VLR contains temporary subscriber information needed by the MSC or
SGSN to provide services for visiting subscribers.
When a mobile station roams into a new MSC location area or SGSN routing
area, the VLR of that MSC or SGSN requests and stores data about the mobile
station from the HLR.
If the mobile station makes a call at another time, the VLR will then already have
the information needed for that call setup.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Visitor Location Register (VLR) Functionality in SGSN and in MSC

The Gs interface is used for dealing efficiently with terminals that are attached to
both GPRS (Packet-Switched) and to GSM (Circuit-Switched) traffic.
The Gs interface thus connects the databases in the MSC/VLR and the SGSN.
The Gs interface is used to coordinate the location information of MSs that are
attached to both GPRS and the CS network.
The Gs interface is also used to convey some CS procedures via the SGSN.
An example is that the Class-A and Class-B MSs connect to the MSC/VLR over
the SGSN via the combined CS and PS Mobility Management procedures, if
there is a Gs interface.
The Gs interface is essential for supporting the Network operation mode I and
Mobile Station (MS) mode of operation A and B. This includes combined IMSI
and GPRS attach and detach, identification and mobility management.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN)

The Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) is a primary component in the GSM
network using GPRS and is a new component in GSM.
The SGSN forwards incoming and outgoing IP packets addressed to/from a
mobile station that is attached within the SGSN service area.
The SGSN provides:
 Packet routing and transfer to and from the SGSN service area.
 Ciphering and authentication,
 Session management
 Mobility management
 Logical link management towards the MS
 Connection to HLR, MSC, BSC, SMS-GMSC, SMS-IWMSC, GGSN
 Output of charging data. The SGSN collects charging information for
each MS related to the radio network usage.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN)

Like the SGSN, GGSN is a primary component in the GSM network using
GPRS and is a new component. The GGSN provides:
 The interface towards the external IP packet networks. Therefore it
contains access functionality that interfaces external ISP functions like
routers and RADIUS servers (Remote Access Dial-In User Service).
 From the external IP network’s point of view, the GGSN acts as a
router for the IP addresses of all subscribers served by the GPRS network.
The GGSN thus exchanges routing information with the external network
 GPRS session management; communication setup towards external
network
 Functionality for associating the subscribers to the right SGSN
 Output of charging data. The GGSN collects charging information for
each MS, related to the external data network usage.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

The Co-Located SGSN and GGSN

The SGSN and GGSN functionalities may be combined in the same physical
node (network element), or they may reside in different physical nodes.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

Home Location Register (HLR)

The Home Location Register (HLR) is the database that holds subscription
information for every person who has bought a subscription from the
GSM/GPRS operator.
The HLR stores information for CS and for PS communication.
The HLR contains information about supplementary services, authentication
parameters, and whether or not packet communication is allowed.
In addition, the HLR includes information about the location of the MS.
For GPRS, subscriber information is exchanged between HLR and SGSN.
Note that the authentication triplets for GPRS are fetched directly from the HLR
to the SGSN, i.e. does not use the MSC/VLR like for CS GSM.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

SMS-GMSC and SMS-IWMSC

The Short Message Service Gateway MSC (SMS-GMSC) and Short Message
Service Inter-working MSC (SMS-IWMSC) are connected to the SGSN to
enable GPRS MSs to send and receive SMS over GPRS radio channels.
The Short Message Service Center (SC or SM-SC) is connected to the GPRS
network via the SMS-GMSC and the SMS-IWMSC.
The SMS-MSCs are not changed for GPRS use.
Introduction

GPRS System Survey

Introduction to GPRS
GPRS Architecture

SMS-GMSC and SMS-IWMSC

The Short Message Service Gateway MSC (SMS-GMSC) and Short Message
Service Inter-working MSC (SMS-IWMSC) are connected to the SGSN to
enable GPRS MSs to send and receive SMS over GPRS radio channels.
The Short Message Service Center (SC or SM-SC) is connected to the GPRS
network via the SMS-GMSC and the SMS-IWMSC.
The SMS-MSCs are not changed for GPRS use.
Chapter 2 : Air Interface
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Routing Area
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
GPRS Protocol Stack
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Multi-frame Structure
Packet Header User Data Network Layer

LLC PDU Header Information field Tail

LLC Layer

RLC RLC
Information Information

Radio RLC RLC RLC RLC RLC/MAC

USF BCS USF BCS
Blocks Header Information Header Information Layer

Normal Normal Normal Normal GSM RF

Burst Burst Burst Burst (Physical Layer)

B0 B1 B2 T B3 B4 B5 I B6 B7 B8 T B9 B10 B11 I
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

MAC (Medium Access Control)

It controls the access signaling
across the air interface, including
shared transmission resources
management (assignment of the
radio block to multiple users on the
same timeslot).
MAC achieves these functionalities by placing a header in front of the RLC
header in the RLC/MAC data and control blocks.
The MAC header contains several elements,some of which are direction-specific,
referring to the downlink or uplink.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

MAC (Medium Access Control)

The key parameters of MAC

header are:
 Uplink status flag (USF),is sent in all downlink RLC/MAC blocks and indicates
the owner or use of the next uplink radio block on the same timeslot.
 Relative reserved block period (RRBP),identifies a single uplink block in which
the mobile phone will transmit control information.
 Payload type (PT),the type of data (control block or data block)contained in
the remainder of the RLC/MAC block.
 Countdown value (CV),is sent by the mobile to allow the network to calculate
the number of RLC data blocks remaining in the current uplink TBF.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

MAC (Medium Access Control)

TS 4 5 6 7
B0 B1 B2 T B3 B4
USF 1 1 1 1
f1

6
TS
USF=3

TS 4 5 6
USF 2 3 4
f1 BTS PCU

B0 B1 B2 T B3 B4

TS 5 6 7
USF 2 3 5 Data
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

RLC ( Radio Link Control )

It is responsible for a number of
functions:

 Transferring LLC-PDUs between the LLC layer and the MAC function
 Segmentation of LLC-PDUs into RLC data blocks and re-assembly of RLC
data blocks to fit into TDMA frame blocks
 Segmentation and re-assembly of RLC/MAC control messages into RLC/MAC
control blocks
 Backward error correction for selective transmission of RLC data blocks.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

RLC ( Radio Link Control )

The RLC segmentation function
is a process of taking one or more
LLC-PDUs and dividing them into
smaller RLC blocks.
The LLC-PDUs are known collectively as a temporary block flow (TBF) and are
allocated the resources of one or more packet data channels (PDCH).
The TBF is temporary and is maintained only for the duration of the data transfer.
Each TBF is assigned a temporary flow identity (TFI)by the network.
The RLC data blocks consist of an RLC header, an RLC data unit, and spare
bits.
The RLC data block along with a MAC header may be encoded using one of four
defined coding [Link] coding scheme is critical in deciding the
segmentation process.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

RLC ( Radio Link Control )

B0 B1 B2 T B3 B4
TFI 1
f1
All use TS 6

6
TS
TFI = 1

Data

TFI 2
BTS PCU

TFI 3
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Scheduling
52 frame multi frame on timeslot 6 - Downlink Direction

B0 B1 B2 T B3 B4 B5 I B6

USF=1
TFI=3
Data

MS1, whose USF

Data sent on this
on TS 6=1, will use
RLC block belongs
the next uplink RLC
to MS3, whose
block on this time
TFI=3
slot to send its data
MS 1 MS 2 MS 3
TFI 1 TFI 2 TFI 3
TS 4 5 6 7 TS 4 5 6 TS 5 6 7
USF 1 1 1 1 USF 2 3 4 USF 2 3 5

B0 B1 B2 T B3 B4 B5 I B6

52 frame multi frame on timeslot 6

Uplink Direction TFI = 1 Data
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

RLC / MAC Data Block

Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Um Interface

RLC / MAC Control Block

Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Channel Coding

Header
Radio Block

Info bits
+ Coding bits

M bits in 456 - M bits 456 bits in each

RLC/MAC block of Coding radio block

Max no of info Max data rate Target C/I

Coding
bits per TS (kbps) (dB)

CS-1 160 8 ~6
CS-2 241 12 ~9
CS-3 293 14 ~12
CS-4 401 20 ~17
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Logical Channels

A number of new logical channels, similar to the existing ones, but for GPRS
only, have been standardized.
The logical channels are mapped onto the physical channels that are used for
dedicated packet data. These physical channels are called Packet Data
Channel (PDCH).
The logical channels in GPRS are divided into:
 Packet Common Control Channels
 Packet Broadcast Channel
 Packet Traffic Channels
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Logical Channels

Packet Common Control Channels

PRACH Packet Random Access Channel Uplink
PPCH Packet Paging Channel Downlink
PAGCH Packet Access Grant Channel Downlink
PTCCH Packet Timing advance Control Channel Uplink / Downlink
PNCH Packet Notification Channel Downlink

Packet Broadcast Channel

PBCCH Packet Broadcast Control CHannel Downlink

Packet Traffic Channels

PDTCH Packet Data Traffic Channel Uplink / Downlink
PACCH Packet Associated Control Channel Uplink / Downlink
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Logical Channels

In Ericsson terminology, a Packet Data Channel (PDCH) carrying PCCCH and

PBCCH is called the Master PDCH
If master PDCH is present the following channels will be available in the cell:
PRACH
PPCH
PAGCH
Master PDCH can carry PDTCH and PACCH
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
GPRS System Information

BCCH
GPRS supported or not on the cell.
GPRS Radio Resources allocated or not.
The position of the PDCH carrying PBCCH and PCCCH.

PBCCH
GPRS BA list, Frequency Hopping information.
Cell Selection parameters.
MS Power Control parameters.
Discontinuous Reception (DRX) parameters.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 f1

f3 f2
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
f4
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

BTS BSC / PCU

The PCU is responsible for assigning channels to the

different GPRS MSs.
PDCH carrying PCCCH
The PDCHs can be allocated in different ways: Master PDCH
Dedicated: allocated and released by operator command.
PDTCH
On-demand: serving as temporary dynamic GPRS
resources. Allocated and released depending on GPRS
CCCH, TCH or free time slot
traffic demand.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

Channels that are allocated for GPRS (PDCH) are allocated in sets of
maximum four consecutive time slots.
Such a set is called a PSET, and can consist of both dedicated and on-
demand PDCH.
All channels in a PSET are on the same frequency or hop the same frequency
hopping set. A mobile station can only be assigned PDCHs from one PSET.
At present this limits the maximum number of assigned time slots to four.
There is no additional limit on the number of PDCHs that can be allocated in a
cell, except the number of available TCHs.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 f1

f3 f2
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
f4
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

BTS BSC / PCU

MS 1
4 5 6 7
TS 4,5,6,7 on f4
In this example, each
time slot will serve 3
subscribers.
MS 3 MS 3 MS 4 MS 4 This means that the
timeslot will carry
MS 2 MS 2 MS 2 MS 3 information belonging
MS 2 to 3 different TBFs.
MS 1 MS 1 MS 1 MS 1
TS 4,5,6 on f4 TBF LIMIT
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

Maximum TBF limit in the uplink direction is 6

Maximum TBF limit in the downlink direction is 8
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

Dedicated PDCH
Dedicated PDCHs can only be used for GPRS.
The operator can specify zero to eight dedicated PDCHs per cell.
Dedicated PDCHs ensure that there are always GPRS resources in a cell.
The operator can specify to some extent where he wants his dedicated
PDCH(s) to be located. From a radio point-of-view, non-hopping channels on
the BCCH (Broadcast Control Channel) carrier are generally not equivalent
to quality to traffic channels on other frequencies.
The BCCH frequencies may have a separate frequency plan, and bursts on
the BCCH frequency are not power-regulated.
The operator can decide if the PDCH shall be allocated on the non-hopping
BCCH frequency as primary or secondary choice, or with no preference.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

On-demand PDCH
On-demand PDCH can be pre-empted by incoming circuit switched calls in
congested cells.
There is no physical limit on how many on-demand PDCHs there can be in a
cell.
The number of on-demand PDCHs depends on how much packet switched
traffic there is, up to the limit where circuit switched traffic starts to preempt
PDCH due to congestion.
In a cell without any circuit switched traffic it would be possible to use all
channels for GPRS traffic.
A load supervision function is implemented so that in a cell with or without
dedicated PDCH, new on-demand PDCHs are allocated when the number of
GPRS users becomes too high
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

Master PDCH
A Master PDCH (MPDCH), is a PDCH carrying a PBCCH and a PCCCH, as well
as GPRS traffic. The PCCCH carries all the necessary control signaling to initiate
packet transfer.
The first dedicated PDCH that is allocated according to the operator’s
preferences regarding non-hopping BCCH will be configured as an MPDCH.
The following PDCHs that are allocated will only carry GPRS traffic and
associated signaling.
If the operator decreases the number of dedicated PDCHs, the MPDCH is kept as
long as there is at least one dedicated PDCH in the cell.
In a cell with no MPDCH (no dedicated PDCH allocated) the ordinary control
channels, like BCCH, RACH etc, will handle the broadcasting and signaling to the
GPRS mobiles.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PDCH Allocation

Master present or not

The operator can decide if there shall be an MPDCH in a cell or not.
In a cell with no MPDCH, the MS will listen to BCCH and PCH (Packet Channel)
for broadcast information and paging messages. The paging message will contain
information to distinguish CS pages from PS pages. The MS sends access bursts
on the RACH. The MS specifies in this message if it is a request for a CS or a PS
connection. Information about the allocated resources is then sent on the AGCH
to the MS.
In a cell with an MPDCH allocated, an MS only reads the BCCH to get
information about the physical channel where the PBCCH and the PCCCHs can
be found. The MS then listens to the PBCCH to get all system information it
needs. The MS will listen to the PPCH for paging messages. The MS sends
access bursts on the Packet Random Access Channel (PRACH) for request for
PS services, but on the RACH if the request is for a CS service.
The GPRS traffic and associated signaling, however, is always transmitted on
GPRS-specific channels, regardless of whether an MPDCH is allocated or not.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Multi-Slot Classes
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
PS resources Allocation Strategy

Dedicated
Yes TPF
TBF Limit Yes
Channels
Allows ?
Available ?

No No

Are there
channels Yes
in GPRS
Idle list ?

No

Are there
channels Yes
in GSM
Idle list ?

No
Reject
Allocate
the attempt
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
CS resources Allocation Strategy

Are there
channels Yes
in GSM
Idle list ?

No

Are there
channels Yes
in GPRS
Idle list ?

No

Preempt
On demand
channel

Allocate
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
GPRS MS States and Modes

There are three GPRS mobility management states

Idle state :
The MS is turned on but not GPRS attached. The MS is “invisible” to GPRS
network , e.g. if the MS is outside the coverage area for GPRS.
Ready state :
A packet transfer is ongoing or has recently ended. A ready timer defines how
long time the MS shall remain in ready state after a transfer before being in the
standby state. The time is decided by SGSN and can take values from zero to
infinity. The MS sends cell update to SGSN every time it changes cell. In ready
state there is no need to send a page to the MS. SGSN sends the LLC frames to
the PCU and the PCU sends an assignment to the MS immediately, since the
location is known.
Standby state :
The MS is GPRS attached and sends routing area updates to the SGSN every
time it changes Routing Area.
The SGSN knows the state of all MSs that are in standby or ready state.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
GPRS MS States and Modes

Idle Idle

GPRS Detach GPRS Detach

GPRS GPRS
Or
Attach Attach
Cancel Location

Standby timer Standby timer

Expiry Expiry
Ready or Ready
Cancel Location

Ready Timer Expiry Ready Timer Expiry

or or
LLC PDU LLC PDU
Force to STANDBY Force to STANDBY
Transmission Reception
or
Abnormal RLC Condition

Standby Standby

MM State Model of MS MM State Model of SGSN

Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
GPRS MS States and Modes
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
TLLI and NSAPI

NSAPI
TLLI

TLLI Temporary Logical Link Identifier

NSAPI Network Service Access Point Identifier
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
TLLI and NSAPI
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Network Operation Mode

The network may provide coordination of paging for circuit-switched and
packet-switched services.
Paging coordination means that the network sends paging messages for
circuit-switched services on the same channel that is used for packet-switched
services (on the GPRS paging channel or on the GPRS traffic channel), and
the MS only needs to monitor that channel.
Three network operation modes are defined:
Network operation mode I
Network operation mode II
Network operation mode III
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Network Operation Mode I

The network sends CS paging message for a GPRS-attached MS, either on
the same channel as the GPRS paging channel (i.e. the packet paging
channel or the Common Control Channel, CCCH, paging channel), or on a
GPRS traffic channel.
This means that the MS must only monitor one paging channel, and that it
receives CS paging messages on the packet data channel when it has been
assigned a packet data channel.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Network Operation Mode II

The network sends CS paging message for a GPRS-attached MS on the CCCH
paging channel, and this channel is also used for GPRS paging.
This means that the MS must only monitor the CCCH paging channel, but that
CS paging continues on this paging channel, even if the MS has been assigned
a packet data channel.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Network Operation Mode III

The network sends CS paging message for a GPRS-attached MS on the
CCCH paging channel, and sends a GPRS paging message on either the
packet paging channel (if allocated in the cell) or on the CCCH paging
channel.
This means that an MS that wants to receive pages for both circuit-switched
and packet-switched services must monitor both paging channels if the packet
channel is allocated in the cell. The network performs no paging coordination.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Mode I Paging Coordination exist Gs interface exist

Mode II No Paging Coordination No Gs interface

No master PDCH

Mode III No Paging Coordination No Gs interface

Master PDCH exist
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Paging
When an MS in class A or class B mode of operation is attached to both
GPRS and CS, and the Gs interface between MSC and SGSN is available, the
MSC sends the pages to the SGSN, via the Gs interface, instead of directly to
the BSC.
Since the SGSN knows the location of the MS on cell level when it is in ready
state and on routing area level otherwise, the paging area will be of same size
or smaller than when the page is sent directly to the BSC.

SGSN sends the page to the affected PCU(s) with information of the cell or
routing area. If the MS is involved in a packet transfer, the PCU sends the
page on the control channel associated with the packet transfer, PACCH.
Otherwise the page is sent out on PPCH, or on PCH if PPCH is not available.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Paging
It is possible to have a network without a Gs interface.
In this case the MSC sends the page directly to the BSC.
If the MS is in GPRS MS standby state, the downlink packet transfer is
initiated by paging the MS in a Routing Area. This is initiated by the SGSN
sending a BSSGP Paging Request to the PCU.
The PCU will then calculate which paging group to which the MS belongs, and
send the paging request in a time slot when the MS is awake (listening).
The MS responds to the page by sending a Paging response message to the
SGSN. This is done using the uplink packet transfer procedure.
The message is transparent to BSS and looks like an ordinary LLC frame.
The MS is now in ready state and the SGSN can start to send LLC frames to
the PCU with the cell and MS identity.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Packet Transfer

Discontinuous Reception and Paging Groups

Max 704 paging groups (15 Seconds) 81 groups in GSM

In GPRS the MS can select the Paging Group by negotiation the DRX value
with the SGSN
In GSM it is an IMSI property
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of uplink TBF

The MS has no TBF established

If an MS has no TBF established, the MS sends a Packet Channel Request
message to the PCU.
In the Ericsson implementation there are two main ways to allocate resources
after receiving a Packet Channel Request message from the MS:
 The MS is assigned resources on one or several timeslots for a longer
time using the dynamic allocation method. For each timeslot, the MS
is assigned a value of the Uplink State Flag (USF). The TFI is used in
signaling to identify the MS. This is called a one-phase access.
 A single timeslot is reserved for the sending of one RLC block. This
can be used to let the MS send a Packet Resource Request message,
to further specify its capabilities and/or demands. This is called a two-
phase access. The single RLC block could also be used when the MS
only has a very short LLC frame to send. At two-phase access, the MS
sends a Packet Resource Request on the allocated timeslot. With the
new information received, the PCU assign resources and sends a new
Packet Uplink Assignment to the MS.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of uplink TBF

The MS has no TBF established

Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of uplink TBF

The MS has a downlink TBF

If the MS already has a downlink TBF established, the MS sends a Packet
Resource Request message on the control channel associated with the
downlink TBF, the Packet Associated Control Channel (PACCH).
The PCU has to consider the downlink allocation when allocating uplink
resources.
The Packet Uplink Assignment message is then sent to the MS on the
PACCH.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of downlink TBF

When the PCU receives LLC frames from the SGSN, the PCU checks whether
the addressed MS is already involved in a packet transfer. The checking result
may be that:
The MS is in the Standby Mode
The MS has a downlink TBF
The MS has an uplink TBF
The MS is ready but has no TBF established
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of downlink TBF

The MS is in the Standby mode

If the MS is in GPRS standby state, the downlink packet transfer is initiated by
paging the MS in a Routing Area. This is initiated by the SGSN sending a
BSSGP Paging Request to the PCU. The PCU will then calculate which paging
group the MS belongs to and send the paging request in a timeslot when the
MS is awake (listening).
The MS responds to the page by sending a Paging response message to the
SGSN. This is done by use of the uplink packet transfer procedure.
The message is transparent to BSS and looks like an ordinary LLC frame.
The MS is now in ready state and the SGSN can start to send LLC frames to
the PCU with the cell and MS identity.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of downlink TBF

The MS has a downlink TBF

If the MS already has a downlink TBF, the new LLC frame is put in the queue
with the other LLC frames to that MS.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of downlink TBF

The MS has an uplink TBF

If the MS already has an uplink TBF, the PCU has to take this into consideration.
Probably the PCU will allocate downlink resources on the same time slots (or at
least partially) as the MS has uplink resources.
This makes it possible for the MS to use both the uplink and downlink resources
at the same time.
The MS multi-slot class notes the capability of the MS regarding how many
PDCH it can handle in each direction at the same time.
The Packet Downlink Assignment message is sent on the control channel that is
associated with the uplink assignment, the Packet Associated Control Channel
(PACCH).
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Establishment of downlink TBF

The MS is ready but has no TBF established

If the MS has no TBF established, a Packet Downlink Assignment message is
sent on a timeslot that the MS listens to, according to its paging group.
A certain time after the MS has been involved in a packet transfer it remains in
non-DRX mode.
That means that it is awake and there is no need to wait for its paging group.
The message can be sent immediately.
The Packet downlink assignment message consists of a list of the channels that
will be used and a TFI to address the MS.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Acknowledgement

Radio blocks can be sent in acknowledged or unacknowledged RLC mode.

Actually Ack/Nack messages are sent in both modes, but packets are only
retransmitted over the air interface in acknowledged RLC mode.
The reason for sending acknowledgements in unacknowledged mode can be
several:
 To check that the communication has not been broken.
 To get knowledge about the transmission quality, in order to use
the coding scheme that gives the best performance.
 To prioritize MS depending on link quality.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Acknowledgement
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Acknowledgement
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Ending a TBF

Ending a downlink TBF

When there are no more LLC frames to a certain MS in the PCU (but there
may be more in the SGSN), the downlink TBF is released.
If a new LLC frame arrives immediately after, a new assignment corresponding
to a new TBF is sent to the MS.
The MS is still in ready state, so there is no need to page the MS.
Ending an uplink TBF
When the MS has only a few more RLC blocks to send, this is signaled to the
network, and a countdown procedure begins.
After all blocks have been sent and acknowledged, the uplink TBF is released.
If the MS has more packets to send after the countdown procedure has been
initiated, a new TBF has to be established.
The MS is not allowed to continue to send more packets than it had when
initiating the countdown procedure.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Ending a TBF
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Cell Selection and Reselection

Comparing GPRS with circuit switched

In a GSM network the BSC governs the cell selection behavior of MS in idle
and active mode by different methods.
Idle mode MSs autonomously perform cell reselection by
using the C1/C2 criteria.
In active mode, non-GPRS MSs are steered by the locating
functionality implemented in the BSC. That means that the BSC
initiates handovers to other cells.

In GPRS, the MS determines the base station with which it will communicate.
GPRS MS manages both the idle packet and transfer packet mode behaviors.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Cell Selection and Reselection

Comparing GPRS with circuit switched

Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Cell Selection and Reselection

The cell selection and reselection algorithms used for controlling idle/transfer
mode behaviors are governed by GPRS cell selection and reselection
parameter settings broadcast in the packet system information on PBCCH in
each GPRS capable cell with allocated PBCCH (MPDCH).
If no PBCCH is allocated in a cell, the GPRS MS will read the system
information broadcast on BCCH and use the C1/C2 criteria for cell selection
and reselection as in the circuit switched idle mode case.
The GPRS cell selection and reselection algorithms are governed by
parameter settings. These parameters, C31 and C32, are different from the
corresponding parameters for the circuit switched case.
In Ericsson implementation, GPRS cell selection parameters are automatically
mapped on those for cell selection/locating known from the circuit switched
case. This achieves the same cell selection behavior for GPRS and enables an
easy rollout of GPRS in the network.
The standard allows the network to take over cell reselection for a specific MS
or for all MS. This is called Network Controlled Cell Reselection and is not
implemented.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Cell Selection and Reselection

Cell reselection, a small traffic case

In this example, the MS is involved in a downlink packet transfer.
The MS discovers that another cell is a better choice according to its own
measurements and to the cell selection parameters broadcast on PBCCH or
BCCH.
The MS stops listening to the old cell and starts to read the necessary system
information in the new cell. Then the MS accesses the new cell and sends a
cell update to the SGSN. This message is transparent to the PCU.
The SGSN receives the cell update and discovers that there was already an
ongoing downlink packet transfer. The SGSN sends a flush message to the
PCU responsible for the old cell. The flush message contains the addresses of
both the old and the new cell, as well as the MS identity.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Cell Selection and Reselection

Cell reselection, a small traffic case

The PCU checks whether it is also responsible for the new cell.
If the PCU is responsible for the new cell, all buffered LLC frames that have not
been acknowledged or not sent are moved to a queue towards the new cell.
The PCU assigns new resources to the MS in the new cell and transmission is
restarted.
If the PCU is not responsible for the new cell, it will delete all LLC frames
destined to that MS and leave the retransmission to higher layers.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Power Regulation

Cell reselection, a small traffic case

Open loop MS power control is implemented.
The value of the parameter Gamma is set per cell by the operator.
The value of the Parameter Alpha is set per BSC.
Alpha and Gamma are used with the received power signal strength to decide
its output signal strength.
Air Interface

GPRS System Survey

Air Interface
Quality of Service Profile

There are a number of parameters defined as QoS parameters or attributes.

The following concerns BSS:
Precedence Class.
At congestion, all packets with the lowest class are discarded. Then
packets with the second lowest class are discarded, etc. This is not
implemented in BSS.
Reliability Class.
The part that concerns BSS is the RLC Block mode. Both
acknowledged and unacknowledged mode supported.
Peak Throughput Class.
Maximizes the throughput for a MS. Nothing is guaranteed. This is not
implemented in BSS.
Radio Priority
Chapter 3 : GPRS BSS
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Structure and Interfaces of BSS

Abis BSC Gb SGSN

CCU
PCU
CCU

PCU Packet Control Unit (Hardware and Software)

CCU Channel Control Unit (Software)

The PCU is responsible for packet routing in the BSC.

It implements the following protocol layers:
 Physical layer of the Abis interface.
 Radio Link Control (RLC) and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers of
the Um interface.
 Gb interface towards SGSN.
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
The PCU, Simplified

GPRS Signaling
Links (GSL)

E1/T1 Gb interface
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Gb Protocol Stack

BSSGP

Network Service Control (NS Control)

Network Service
Frame Relay
L1 bis
E1 T1
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Frame Relay

 A layer-2 protocol specified for accessing Wide Area Networks.

 Error correction and flow control is the responsibility of the higher
layers.
 High throughput and small delays due to small overheads and simple
switching mechanisms.
 Statistical multiplexing and port sharing.
 Dynamic bandwidth allocation.
 Suitable for use on digital-transmission technology over high quality
reliable transmission links.
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Frame Relay
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Frame Relay Virtual Circuits

Frame relay technology is based on the concept of using Virtual Circuits

(VCs). VCs are two-way, software-defined data paths between two
endpoints.
There are two types of Frame Relay Virtual Connections:
Permanent Virtual Circuits (PVC)
PVCs are set up and released manually by the network operator
on a permanent basis. They have two operational states: Data
Transfer and Idle. Used by GPRS
Switched Virtual Circuits (SVC)
SVCs are set up and released automatically by the network on a
call-by- call basis. They have four operational states: Call Setup,
Data Transfer, Idle and Call Termination. Not used by GPRS
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
How does the Frame Relay work ?

1. Check the integrity of the frame using the Frame Check Sum (FCS).
If it indicates an error, discard the frame.

2. Look up the DLCI in the distribution table of the node. If the DLCI is
not defined for this link, discard the frame.

3. Relay the frame towards its destination by sending it on the outgoing

port or trunk specified in the distribution table.
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Frame Relay Routing

Virtual Connection 1
Virtual Connection 2
Virtual Connection 3 LAN
Router
DLCI 3

B
DLCI 2
DLCI 5
A DLCI 6
C
DLCI 1 Router
DLCI 4 DLCI 7 LAN

Router DLCI 8
LAN DLCI 9
Router

LAN
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Network Service Control

 NS Control adds GPRS specific node management functionality to Frame

Relay PVCs. It identifies one end-to-end NSVC for each Frame Relay PVC.
 It provides load sharing function to distribute BSSGP traffic on the available
NSVCs between the PCU and the SGSN.
 It identifies one NSE for every PCU, and identifies in the SGSN as many
NSEs as the number of PCUs connected to it.
 An NSE communicates over the Gb interface with only one peer NSE using
the same NSEI.

BSSGP

Network Service Control (NS Control)

Network Service
Frame Relay
L1 bis
E1 T1
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
Network Service Control

NSVCI=1 DLCI=100
BSC1 NSEI=1

DLCI=105 DLCI=106 DLCI=107

SGSN NSVCI=2
BSC2 NSEI=2

DLCI=108 DLCI=109

BSC3 NSEI=3
NSVCI=3
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
BSS GPRS Protocol (BSSGP)

 BSSGP identifies, for every cell in the BSC, an end-to-end communication

path between the PCU and the SGSN that is called PtP-BVC. These
BVCs are used for traffic routing to/from the cells,

 Each PCU will have a signaling BVC towards the SGSN, which will carry
the BSSGP management messages used for establishment of the PtP-
BVCs.

 The traffic for all the BVCs is multiplexed automatically on the available
NSVCs.
GPRS BSS

GPRS System Survey

GPRS BSS
BSSGP Virtual Connections
Chapter 4 : GPRS Backbone
GPRS Backbone

GPRS System Survey

GPRS Backbone
Introduction

Billing
NMS System

GPRS Backbone Internet

network
SGSN GGSN FW
Corporate LAN

Intranet
Router

BG
GSGSN FW
PLMN DNS
Server
GPRS Backbone

GPRS System Survey

GPRS Backbone
Internet Protocol

IP is a connectionless protocol that is primarily responsible for addressing and

routing packets between network devices.
Connectionless means that a session is not established before data is
exchanged.
IP is quite unreliable because packet delivery is not guaranteed.
IP makes what is termed a ‘best effort’ attempt to deliver a packet
Also an acknowledgement is not required when data is received.
Thus it doesn’t keep copy of the sent packets. Instead it fires and forgets the
packets. Packets then, may be lost, delivered out of sequence, duplicated or
delayed.
The sender or receiver is not informed when a packet is lost or out of
sequence. The acknowledgement of packets is the responsibility of a higher-
layer transport protocol, such as the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP).
IP is also responsible for fragmenting and reassembling packets.
GPRS Backbone

GPRS System Survey

GPRS Backbone
Internet Protocol

Host A Router Host B

Reliability and Reliability and

sequencing sequencing

IP IP IP
Routes Delivers as
Fires and forgets
if possible received

Network Network
Interface Interface

Packet Packet Packet

Fragments
GPRS Backbone

GPRS System Survey

GPRS Backbone
Internet Protocol Suite and OSI Model

Application

FTP,TELNET,DNS,
SNMP,SMTP

Transport
TCP or UDP

Internet Protocol

Network Interface

LAN-ETH,TR,FDDI
WAN-Serial Lines,FR,ATM
GPRS Backbone

GPRS System Survey

GPRS Backbone
IP Packet Structure

1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte

Version IHL Type of Service Total Length

Identification Flags Fragment Offset

IP Header
Time To Live Protocol Header Checksum 20 Bytes Long
Source Address

Destination Address

Options + Padding

Data
GPRS Backbone

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IP Packet Structure
Length
Field Description
in Bits

Specifies version of the IP protocol, and hence format of the IP

header being used, for example IPv4 or IPv6. This field can also be
Version 4 used with IPsec.

Length of header in 32-bit words. Minimum value is five, which is

Internet Header the most common header. Header must be at least 20 bytes long.
4
Length (IHL)

Indication of the quality of service requested for the IP packet. It

specifies reliability, precedence, delay and throughput parameters.
Type of Service 8 Typically not used

Total packet length, including header and data, in bytes.

Total length 16

Unique number assigned by the sending device to aid in

reassembling a fragmented packet. Primary purpose is to allow the
Identification. 16 destination device to collect all fragments from a packet, since they
will all have the same identification number.

Provides the fragmentation control fields. First bit is not used and is
always 0. If second bit is 0, it means ‘May fragment’. If it is 1, it
Flags 3 means ‘Don’t fragment’. If the third bit is 0, it means ‘Last
fragment’. If it is 1, it means ‘More fragments’.
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IP Packet Structure
Used with fragmented packets to aid in reassembling the full
packet. The value is the number of 8-byte pieces (header bytes are
Fragment Offset 13 not counted) that are contained in earlier fragments. In the first
fragment, or in a unique fragment, this value is always zero.

Contains time(s), that packet is allowed to remain on an

internetwork. Each IP device that the packet passes through will
decreases the value by the time it takes it to process the IP header.
All routers must decrease this value by a minimum of one. If value
Time to Live 8 drops to zero the packet is discarded. This guarantees that packets
cannot travel around
an IP network in a loop, even if routing tables become corrupt.

Indicates the higher-level protocol to which IP should deliver the

Protocol 8 data in the packet, for example, UDP is 17 and TCP is 6.

This is a checksum on the header only, which ensures integrity of

header values. Sending IP device performs a calculation on the bits
Header Checksum 16 in the IP header, excluding the header checksum field, and places
the result in the header checksum field.
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IP Packet Structure
This is the 32-bit IP address of the sending device.
Source Address 32

This is the 32-bit IP address of the receiving device.

Dest. Address 32

These are not required in every packet. They are mainly used for
Options Var network testing or debugging.

The total length of the data field plus header is a maximum of

Data Var 65535 bytes.
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IP Packet Structure

Fragmentation
IP Header Original IP Packet Data area
Data 1 Data 2 Data 3

IP Header 1 Data 1 IP Header 2 Data 2 IP Header 3 Data 3

Router 1 Router 2

MTU
=
Router 1500 Bytes Router
Router

MTU = 4500 bytes MTU = 4500 bytes

Ethernet
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IP Addressing

1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte

Version IHL Type of Service Total Length

Identification Flags Fragment Offset

IP Header
Time To Live Protocol Header Checksum 20 Bytes Long
1 Byte Source Address
1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte

1 Byte 1 Byte
Destination Address
1 Byte 1 Byte

Options + Padding

Data
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IP Addressing

Every network interface on a TCP/IP device is identified by a globally unique IP

address. Host devices, for example, PCs, typically have a single IP address.
Routers typically have two or more IP addresses, depending on the number of
interfaces they have.
Each IP address is 32 bits long and is composed of four 8-bit fields, called
octets. The address is normally represented in ‘dotted decimal notation’ by
grouping the four octets and representing each one in decimal form. Each octet
represents a decimal number in the range 0-255.
For example,
11000001 10100000 00000001 00000101 is known as
[Link]
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IP Addressing

Each IP address consists of a network ID and a host ID.

The network ID identifies the systems that are located on the same network.
The network ID must be unique to the internet work.
The host ID identifies a TCP/IP network device (or host) within a network. The
address for each host must be unique to the network ID. In the example
above, the PC is connected to network ’[Link]’ and has a unique host ID
of ‘.5’.

Router
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IP Addressing

Class A networks
The high-order bit in a class A address is always set to zero.
The next seven bits (completing the first octet) represent the network ID and
provide 126 possible networks.
The remaining 24 bits (the last three octets) represent the host ID. Each
network can have up to 16777214 hosts.
Class A addresses were assigned to networks with a very large number of
hosts.
Class A networks

Network ID Host ID
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IP Addressing

Class B networks
The two high-order bits in a class B address are always set to binary 1 0 The
The next 14 bits (completing the first two octets) represent the network ID and
provide 16382 possible networks.
The remaining 16 bits (last two octets) represent the host ID. Each network
can have up to 65534 hosts.
Class B addresses were assigned to medium-sized to large-sized networks.

Class B networks

1 0

Network ID Host ID
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IP Addressing

Class C networks
The three high-order bits in a class C address are always set to binary 1 1 0 .
The next 21 bits (completing the first three octets) represent the network ID
and provide 2097150 possible networks.
The remaining 8 bits (last octet) represent the host ID. Each network can have
up to 254 hosts.
Class C addresses were used for small networks.

Class C networks

1 1 0

Network ID Host ID
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IP Addressing
Class A networks
Ranges
from 0
1 - 126

Network ID Host ID

Class B networks
Ranges
from 1 0
128 - 191

Network ID Host ID

Class C networks
Ranges
from 1 1 0
192 - 223

Network ID Host ID
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IP Addressing

Class D addresses
Class D addresses are employed for multicast group usage.
A multicast group may contain one or more hosts, or none at all.
The four high-order bits in a class D address are always set to binary 1 1 1 0.
The remaining bits designate the specific group, in which the client participates.
When expressed in dotted decimal notation, multicast addresses range from
[Link] through [Link].
There are no network or host bits in the multicast operations.
Packets are passed to a selected subset of hosts on a network.
Only those hosts registered for the multicast operation accept the packet.
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IP Addressing

Class E addresses
Class E is an experimental address not available for general use. It is reserved
for future use. The high-order bits in a class E address are set to 1 1 1 1
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IP Addressing

Addressing Guidelines
1. The network ID cannot be 127. The class A network address [Link] is
reserved for loop-back and is designed for testing and inter-process
communication on the local device. When any device uses the loop-back
address to send data, the protocol software in the device returns the data
without sending traffic across any network.
2. The network ID and host ID bits cannot all be 0s. If all bits are set to 0, the
address is interpreted to mean ‘this network only’.
3. The host ID must be unique to the local network.
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IP Addressing

Addressing Guidelines
4. The network ID and host ID bits of a specific device cannot be all 1s. If all
bits are set to 1, the address is interpreted as a broadcast rather than a
host ID. The following are the two types of broadcast:
 If a destination address contains all 1s in the network ID and the
host ID ([Link]) then it, is a limited broadcast, that is, a
broadcast on the source’s local network.
 If a destination address contains all 1s in the host ID but a proper
net- work ID, for example, [Link], this is a
directed broadcast, that is, a broadcast on a specified network (in
this example network [Link])
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IP Addressing

Private IP Address Space

Organizations should use private Internet address for hosts which require IP
connectivity within the enterprise network, but do not require external
connections to the global Internet.
For this purpose the IANA has reserved the following three address blocks for
private intranets:
[Link] [Link] Class A networks
[Link] [Link] Class B networks
[Link] [Link] Class C networks
Any organization that elects to use addresses from these reserved blocks can
do so without contacting the IANA or an Internet registry. Since these
addresses are never injected into the global Internet routing system, the
address space can be used simultaneously by many organizations.
The disadvantage of this addressing scheme is that it requires an organization
to use a Network Address Translator (NAT) for global Internet access.
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IP Addressing

Subnet Mask
A subnet mask is a 32-bit address used to:
 Block out a portion of the IP address to distinguish the network ID
from the host ID.
 Specify whether the destination host’s IP address is located on a
local network or on a remote network.
The Subnet mask Blocks out a portion of the IP address to distinguish the
Network ID from the host ID. It specifies whether the destination’s host IP
address is located on a local network or on a remote network.
The source’s IP address is ANDed with its subnet mask.
The destination’s IP address is ANDed with the same subnet mask.
If the result of both ANDing operations match, the destination is local to the
source, that is, it is on the same subnet.
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IP Addressing

Subnet Mask
A Default subnet masks or prefix lengths exist for class A, B and C addresses:
Class A default mask [Link] (/8)
Class B default mask [Link] (/16
Class C default mask [Link] (/24)

For example, an IP device with the configuration below knows that its network
ID is 160.30.20 and its host ID is 10
Address [Link]
Subnet Mask [Link]
For convenience the subnet mask can be written in prefix length notation. The
prefix-length is equal to the number of contiguous one-bits in the subnet mask.
Therefore, the network address [Link] with a subnet mask
[Link] can also be expressed as [Link]/24.
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IP Addressing

Subnet Mask
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IP Addressing

Subnet Mask
The deployment of subnetting within the private network provides several
benefits:
 The size of the global Internet routing table does not grow because
the site administrator does not need to obtain additional address
space, and the routing advertisements for all of the subnets are
combined into a single routing table entry.
 The local administrator has the flexibility to deploy additional subnets
without obtaining a new network number from the Internet.
 Rapid changing of routes within the private network does not affect
the Internet routing table, since Internet routers do not know about
the reachability of the individual subnets. They just know about the
reachability of the parent network number.
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IP Addressing

Subnet Mask
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IP Addressing

Subnetting Example

01000000

00000000 10000000

11000000
= 1………1 11000000
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Domain Name Resolution - DNS

[Link]

[Link]

Internet addresses are hard for humans to remember, but easy for protocol software to work
with.
Symbolic names are more natural for humans, but hard for protocol software to work with.
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Domain Name Resolution - DNS

The DNS is based on a hierarchical scheme, with the most significant part of
the name on the right. The leftmost segment is the name of the individual
computer. Other segments in a domain name identify the group that owns the
name.
Basically, the Internet is divided into hundreds of top-level domains where each
domain covers many hosts.
Each domain is partitioned into subdomains, and these are further partitioned,
and so on.
There are two types of top-level domains: generic and country.
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Domain Name Resolution - DNS

The seven three-character generic domains are as follows:

com commercial organization
edu educational institution
gov government organization
mil military group
net major network support center
org organization other than those above
int international organization
Country domains consist of a two-letter entry for every country, as defined in
ISO 3166. For example:
eg Egypt.
uk United Kingdom
se Sweden
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Internet Domain Name Space

Generic Countries

int com mil gov edu org net uk se fr eg

Yahoo EUN

Groups News aun suez asunet

Story
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Domain Name Resolution - DNS

The translation of a domain name into an equivalent IP address is called

Name Resolution. The name is said to be resolved to an address. A host
asking for DNS name resolution is called a resolver.
Each resolver is configured with the address of a local domain name server. If
a resolver wishes to become a client of the DNS server, the resolver places
the specified name in a DNS request message and then sends the message
to the local server. The resolver then waits for the server to send a DNS reply
message that contains the answer
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Domain Name Resolution - DNS

Root Name Server

Iterative
query
COM Name Server

Local
Name
Server [Link]

Recursive
query
[Link]

DNS Client
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Domain Name Resolution - DNS

 Internet name servers use name caching to reduce the traffic on the Internet
and improve performance.
 Servers report cached information to clients, but mark it as a non-authoritative
binding.
 If efficiency is important, the client chooses to accept the non-authoritative
answer and proceed.
 If accuracy is important, the client chooses to contact the authority and verify
that the binding between name and address is still valid.
 Whenever an authority responds to a request, it includes a time to live (TTL)
value in the response. The TTL specifies how long the authority guarantees
that the binding will be valid.
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Transmission Control Protocol - TCP

TCP is a reliable, connection-oriented delivery [Link] are exactly two

endpoints communicating with each other on a TCP connection.
Broadcasting and multicasting are not applicable to TCP.
Processes or applications communicate with each other by having both the
sending and receiving device create end points, called sockets.
Each socket has a socket number (address) consisting of the IP address of the
device and a 16-bit number called a port.
A port is used by transport protocols to identify which application protocol or
process they must deliver incoming messages to.
A port can use any number between 0 and 65,536.
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Transmission Control Protocol - TCP

TCP views the data stream as a sequence of octets or bytes that is divided into
segments for transmission.
Each segment travels across the network in a single IP packet.
Reliability is achieved by assigning a sequence number to each segment.
When TCP sends a segment it maintains a timer, waiting for the other end to
acknowledge reception of the segment. If an acknowledgement is not received
in time, the segment is retransmitted.
TCP also provides flow control. Each end of a TCP connection has a finite
amount of buffer space. A receiving TCP only allows the other end to send as
much data as the receiver has buffers for.
This prevents a fast host from taking all the buffers from a slower host.
TCP also reacts to congestion on the network and automatically adjusts the
transmission speed to the bandwidth available on the network.
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TCP Packet Structure

1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte

Source Port Destination Port

Sequence Number

Acknowledgement Number

Offset Reserved Flags Window

Checksum Urgent Pointer

Options Padding

Data
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Well known TCP Port Numbers
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User Datagram Protocol - UDP

User Datagram Protocol (UDP) provides a connectionless packet service that

offers unreliable ‘best effort’ delivery.
This means that the arrival of packets is not guaranteed, nor is the correct
sequencing of delivered packets.
UDP is used by applications that do not require an acknowledgement of receipt
of data, for example, audio or video broadcasting.
UDP is also used by applications that typically transmit small amounts of data at
one time, for example, the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).
UDP provides a mechanism that application programs use to send data to other
application programs.
UDP provides protocol port numbers used to distinguish between multiple
programs executing on a single device. That is, in addition to the data sent, each
UDP message contains both a destination port number and a source port
number. This makes it possible for the UDP software at the destination to deliver
the message to the correct application program, and for the application program
to send a reply.
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UDP Packet Structure

1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte 1 Byte

Source Port Destination Port

Identification UDP Checksum

Data
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GPRS Tunneling Protocol - GTP

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Version Reserved LFN

Message type

Length

Sequence Number

Flow Label

LLC Frame Number

x x x x x x x FN

Reserved

TID ( 8 Octets )
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GPRS Tunneling Protocol - GTP

TID = IMSI + NSAPI

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GTP Encapsulation
IP IP GTP IP IP
Payload Header Payload Header Payload Header
Header Header

SNDCP

BSSGP

PDN1
NSAPI-1 TID-1

GGSN 1
NSAPI-2
SGSN TI
D-
2
TLLI

PDN2
GGSN 2
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Remote Access Dial In user Server - RADIUS

Remote Authentication Dial In user Service (RADIUS) is a client / server

protocol that enables the Remote Access Server (RAS) to communicate with a
central server to authenticate dial in users and authorize their access to the
requested system or service.
RADIUS allows a company to maintain user profiles in a central database that all
remote servers can share. It provides better security, allowing a company to set
up a policy that can be applied at a single administered network point.
Having a central service also means that it is easier to track usage for billing and
for keeping network statistics. RADIUS was specified for user authentication and
authorization, but RADIUS server can provide and administrate IP addresses for
dial in users.

Access Negotiation RADIUS Database

Remote RADIUS
Access Server
Server
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Remote Access Dial In user Server - RADIUS

Inband RADIUS

Corporate/ISP
Operator
Gi Domain
Tunnel
Router

GPRS core
network

GGSN
RADIUS
Server
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Remote Access Dial In user Server - RADIUS

Outband RADIUS

Corporate/ISP
Operator
Gi Domain
Tunnel
Router

GPRS core
network

GGSN

RADIUS
Server
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Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol – DHCP

DHCP supports three mechanisms for IP address allocation:

Manual Allocation
In this scheme, DHCP is simply used as a mechanism to deliver a predetermined network
address and other configuration options to a host. There is a one-to-one mapping between
the unique client identifier (generally the Ethernet address) offered by the client during
DHCP initialization and the IP address returned to the client by the DHCP server. It is
necessary for a network administrator to provide the unique client ID/IP address mapping
used by the DHCP server.
Automatic Allocation
This is similar to manual allocation in that a permanent mapping exists between a host’s
unique client identifier and its IP address. However, in automatic allocation this mapping is
created during the initial allocation of an IP address. The IP addresses assigned during
automatic allocation come from the same pool as dynamic addresses, but once assigned
they cannot be returned to the free address pool without administrative intervention. Both
automatic and manually assigned addresses are considered to have permanent leases.
Dynamic Allocation
DHCP assigns an IP address for a limited period of time. This IP address is known as a
lease. This mechanism allows addresses that are no longer needed by their host to be
automatically
Chapter 6 : Traffic Cases
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Traffic Cases
General

The following traffic cases are described to present the basic principles of a
GPRS network:
 MS Attach and MS Detach
 PDP Context Activation and PDP Context Deactivation
 SGSN Routing Area Update.
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Traffic Cases
MS Attach
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Traffic Cases
MS Attach
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Traffic Cases
MS initiated detach procedure
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Traffic Cases
SGSN initiated detach procedure
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Traffic Cases
HLR initiated detach procedure
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Traffic Cases
PDP Context Activation
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Traffic Cases
PDP Context Activation
SGSN performs
- Subscription Checking
- QoS negotiation
Activate PDP context Request - APN  GGSN address
translation via DNS
[ APN,QoS, PDP- type(= IP), - TID creation GGSN performs
NSAPI, Protocol Configuration
options ] Create PDP context request - APN  ISP address
translation via DNS
[ APN, QoS, PDP- type(= IP), TID, - RADIUS client allocation.
Protocol Configuration options ]
UDP-RADIUS Access Request
[ Authentication, Configuration ]

UDP-RADIUS Access Accept

[ Authentication, Configuration ]

GGSN stores the IP-address

Activate PDP context Accept

[ Protocol Configuration options ]

MS SGSN GGSN ISP

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Traffic Cases
Combined GPRS/IMSI Attach
Traffic Cases

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Traffic Cases
MS initiated PDP Context Deactivation
Traffic Cases

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Traffic Cases
SGSN initiated PDP Context Deactivation
Traffic Cases

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Traffic Cases
GGSN initiated PDP Context Deactivation
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Traffic Cases
SGSN Routing Area Update

Intra-SGSN Routing Area Update

Traffic Cases

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Traffic Cases
SGSN Routing Area Update

Inter-SGSN Routing Area Update

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Traffic Cases
Basic Roaming Scenarios
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Traffic Cases
Basic Roaming Scenarios

Home GGSN:

When using the home GGSN the traffic will always use the same gateway
between the GPRS network and the external network, i.e. the traffic will
always take the same way out from the GPRS network.

Visited GGSN:

The main advantage with using a visited GGSN is that the InterPLMN
backbone is not used. This means that it saves capacity on the backbone,
capacity that GPRS operators have to pay for, and by that the cost for the
operator is lower if visited GGSNs are used.
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Traffic Cases
Basic Roaming Scenarios

ISP Roaming:

When accessing a visited GGSN the external network could be the user’s
world wide Intranet, the same ISP as in the home network or a new ISP.
If the external network accessed is a corporate Intranet the Intranet
performs the authentication. If the external network gives Internet access
three scenarios can be identified:
Visited ISP
Multihomed ISP
Proxy ISP

The APN is built up like an Internet domain name (i.e. label1.label2.label3)

and contains two parts, the Network Identifier and the Operator Identifier.
“<network id>.mnc<MNC>.mcc<MCC>.gprs”
Network ID Operator ID
The Network ID is often sent to the network by the terminal, either inputted
by the user or from a pre-configuration in the terminal, whereas the Operator
ID often is added by the SGSN.
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Basic Roaming Scenarios

The InterPLMN backbone is a private network, not visible to the rest of the
Internet. Only nodes that needs to communicate with nodes in other PLMNs
needs to have public addresses and by that be visible on the InterPLMN
backbone.
If it is assumed that the internal backbone within an operator is considered

secure, the part of the network between the Boarder Gateways needs to have
an appropriate security level as well
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Traffic Cases
Basic Roaming Scenarios

Several international carriers exist and carry traffic from their clients (a GPRS
operator) but they are also exchanging traffic between themselves (peering) so
that a customer in one carrier’s network could reach a customer in another
carrier’s network.
The carrier makes Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with their customers and
other carriers as well. An IP carrier fulfilling these requirements is called a GRX
(GPRS Roaming eXchange) operator.

Some advantages with the GRX approach are:

A GPRS operator does not have to create dedicated connections to every

roaming partner. Instead of tens or hundreds of separate connections, the
operator can start offering the GPRS roaming service with number of roaming
partners with only one connection to a GRX operator.
A GPRS operator may choose to start with low quality and low capacity

connection to GRX and upgrade the level of connectivity when it is economically

feasible and there are traffic volumes and type of traffic that require more
bandwidth and better quality.
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Traffic Cases
Basic Roaming Scenarios