The UMTS Architecture

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The UMTS Architecture

The UMTS Architecture

1 UMTS ARCHITECTURE THE REQUIREMENTS
1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Aims of the UMTS Architecture Key new features in UMTS vs. GSM/GPRS The Two Modes of W-CDMA Access Elements & Domains in a UMTS network 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 17 17 19 21 23 25 25 25 25 27 29 29 31 33 35 35 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51

2 3

THE USER DOMAIN (USIM + ME DOMAINS) THE ACCESS NETWORK

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.8.1 3.8.2 3.8.3 3.9 3.10 3.10.1 3.10.2 3.11 The Access Domain and Interfaces Requirements of the UTRAN Further UTRAN features UTRAN Architecture General The Node B The RNC RNC Terminology Functions of the RNC Controlling RNC Functions Serving RNC Functions Drift RNC Functions Further UTRAN features Handovers Softer Handover Soft Handover Functions Of The UTRAN Protocols Requirements Of The Transport Network The Options ATM Operation The ATM Cell ATM and Quality Of Service The Core Network Domain Specific Entities in the UMTS Release 99 Core Network Architecture The Circuit Switched Domain & GSM Core Network Elements The GSM Location Registers The Packet-Switched Domain & GPRS Core Network Elements

THE UTRAN TRANSPORT NETWORK

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5

THE CORE NETWORK

5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5

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5.6 5.6.1 5.6.2 5.7 5.7.1 5.8 5.8.1

Operation in the Core Network CS Domain User and Control Information in the CS Domain Signalling in the CS Domain SS7 Overview Operation in the Core Network PS Domain User and Control Information in the PS Domain OTHER NETWORK ENTITIES Some other entities for specific services Intelligent Networks CAMEL

53 53 55 57 57 59 59 61 63 65 67 69 71

IN/CAMEL IN UMTS
6.1 6.2

7 8 9

CHARGING CORE NETWORK TRANSPORT MOBILE IP

9.1 9.2 Mobile IP: Basics Mobile IPv4 vs. IPv6 Release 4 Control & Data Separation in the CS domain The IP Multimedia Subsystem New Domain Concept in Release 4 and Beyond 3GPP Release 00/Release 4 UMTS Domains

10

RELEASE 4
10.1 10.2 10.3 73 75 77 79 81

11

NETWORK EVOLUTION
11.1 a.1

ANNEX 1 DOMAINS AND STRATA

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1. UMTS ARCHITECTURE THE REQUIREMENTS

1.1 Aims of the UMTS Architecture
The fundamental difference between GSM/GPRS and UMTS is in the need for the latter to support high bit rate bearer services, plus the notion of negotiated QoS and traffic characteristics. In particular, UMTS needs to support bursty and asymmetric traffic in an efficient way, and to allow support of single and multimedia N-ISDN applications and single & multimedia IP applications. However, no one knows what precise future service requirements will be. Therefore it is essential that the UMTS system is designed to be as flexible as possible. For this reason, a modular approach has been followed, with network nodes defined that implement some specific functionality, and open interfaces defined between such nodes. A modular approach also increases the chances of being able to implement future seamless roaming between the various IMT2000 family standards. In order to ensure that UMTS is implemented as quickly as possible, it also became obvious that its design needed to take account of the cost for operators. The optimisation of the signalling load as well as reduction in the overall transmission capacity are critical cost factors for operators, and so the aim is for an architecture which will minimise signalling traffic and optimise transmission infrastructure. The architecture also needs to protect existing investments which operators have, and re-use as many elements of these as possible. In particular, the first release of UMTS (UMTS Release 99) builds directly upon an evolved GSM (GSM Phase 2+) network, including the addition of GPRS. Of course, different phases of release of UMTS will need to be compatible with each other.

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 Flexibility IMT2000 interworking Minimise signalling Optimise transmission Protect existing investments Enable evolution

Modular approach, building on evolved GSM

Fig. 1 Aims of the UMTS Architecture

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1.2 Key new features in UMTS vs. GSM/GPRS

The UMTS Core network in Release 99 is based on the GSM/GPRS network. Most of the individual elements are re-used, although they require extensions (e.g. MSC, VLR etc.), but the UTRAN elements are completely new. UMTS core networks must be able to interoperate both this new UTRAN and the existing GSM BSS access network. In order to support more data intensive services, operators will need to upgrade capacity throughout their networks in order to cope with the expected increase in traffic, and use transport protocols which are more efficiently suited to data and packet transport. Thus, in UMTS Release 99, ATM is specified as the transport mechanism in the new interfaces in the radio access and between radio access and core network. A new, standard default speech codec (adaptive multi-rate) is also standardised for UMTS, and supports tandem free operation both to lower transmission costs and to improve speech quality. Among other key features provided by UMTS networks but not previously standardised within GSM: the enabling of set-up, renegotiation and clearing of connections (both circuitswitched calls & packet-switched sessions), with a range of performance characteristics. The connections can also vary during their lifetime. This provides for flexible, multimedia services, in which media elements may be added or removed dynamically during the call support for a range of traffic and performance for connectionless (multicast, broadcast, unicast) traffic, defined using bearer services. Once established, bearers do not prevent the set-up of new bearers, again permitting services to be flexible support for the Virtual Home Environment (VHE), provided through toolkits the generation of additional charging records, for example based on number, call duration, traffic, QoS and so on, in order to provide operators with the capability to offer new pricing models. These new charging methods are also set up in such a way as to provide support for on-line billing interworking and roaming with PSTN, N-ISDN, GSM, X.25 and IP signalling, and with their respective numbering schemes the measurement of traffic flows and so on, in order to optimise congestion control and other management & efficiency techniques support for IP mobility between different environments (e.g. fixed & mobile)

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 Upgrades to existing GSM/GPRS elements ATM transport New speech codec Flexibility in connection set-up, re-negotiation & clearing Flexibility in bearers Support for VHE Enhanced charging & billing support Interworking with other networks & numbering schemes Traffic flow measurements to enable management efficiencies Enhanced IP mobility support

Fig. 2 Some Key New Features of UMTS Networks

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1.3 The Two Modes of W-CDMA Access

Two modes are defined for the W-CDMA access scheme, according to the two different ways in which duplex operation is dealt with. Duplex refers to the combination of both uplink (mobile to base station) and downlink (base station to mobile) transmission. FDD (Frequency Division Duplex) This is the name for the UMTS mode which is designed to give wide area mobile coverage in UMTS. It can support 384kb/s in a mobile environment and uses a 5Mhz frequency band for uplink and a separate 5Mhz for downlink. This is termed paired spectrum channel allocation and operators in the UK for example have two or three channels of paired spectrum depending on their licence (10Mhz or 15MHz). TDD (Time Division Duplex) TDD uses W-CDMA as the modulation scheme, as in FDD, but shares a single 5Mhz channel for both uplink and downlink. To do this, the system allocates time slots for both the uplink and downlink transmissions. The system is capable of very high data rates (up to 2Mb/s) but is not suitable for anything above pedestrian mobility, due to the slower power control loop. Note that adding TDD mode to FDD will require a new Node B, likely to be smaller, with lower power output and up to two antennas serving a range of 100m or so. TDD is therefore sometimes described as equivalent to a cordless level of mobility.The typical uses envisaged include offices, stations, supermarkets, airports and so on, where traffic levels may be high but users are moving slowly. The channel allocation is called unpaired spectrum, and is absent in Japan, although present in four of the five licences in the UK. In future, a further multi-carrier UTRA mode is expected to define compatibility between UMTS and cdma2000. Given the different wide and local area advantages of the two access schemes, the concept of cell hierarchies arises, and may also include GSM/EDGE for the widest area coverage in the early stages of UMTS deployment.

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GSM/EDGE?

FDD

TDD

Fig. 3 Two Modes of W-CDMA Access

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The UMTS Architecture

1.4 Elements & Domains in a UMTS network

A UMTS network can be divided into the following physical domains: 1. User Domain 2. Infrastructure Domain, itself subdivided into: a. Radio Access Network b. Core Network Each domain is further described in the following pages, and each may involve further subdivisions and elements. An important feature in the standardisation of UMTS is that the internal functionality of domains is NOT specified. Instead the interfaces between them are defined and open. This means that in theory it is possible to have several network elements of the same type, with the minimum requirement for a fully featured network being to have one of each. A UMTS system could be divided into sub-networks, operational either alone or together, but each with unique identities. A single such network is described as a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), and may be connected to other PLMNs, or other networks such as ISDN, PSTN or the Internet. For example, in practical application this might mean that a single physical UTRAN infrastructure could be shared by a number of core network domains. It also means that different domain elements can be more easily sourced from different equipment manufacturers, with interoperability ensured by the standardised interfaces, thus leading to more competition and greater operator choice in sourcing infrastructure.

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USER DOMAIN

Uu Interface (Radio Interface) INFRASTRUCTURE DOMAIN

RADIO ACCESS DOMAIN

Iu Interface

CORE NETWORK

Other PLMN, Other Networks

Fig. 4 UMTS Domains Overview

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2. THE USER DOMAIN (USIM + ME DOMAINS)

The user domain describes the equipment needed by the user to access UMTS services. Within this domain are further subdivisions into the Mobile Equipment (ME) domain and USIM domain. The combined ME and USIM is sometimes referred to as the Mobile Station (MS). The USIM domain contains the data and procedures allowing the ME to securely identify itself, and is linked to the ME by the defined Cu Interface. The ME domain performs radio transmission and contains applications. It may itself be further subdivided, into the Mobile Termination MT (radio functions only) and Terminal Equipment TE (contains end-to-end application, and may be a separate device from the radio equipment, for example a laptop). The functionality of the MT is entirely new in UMTS, in being able to interact with the access network over the all new UMTS radio interface, Uu. In almost all cases in the early deployment of UMTS, the mobile terminal must also be multi-mode, able to receive/transmit between both GSM-based and UMTS-based radio access schemes. Note that it is also possible to define the following terms relevant to this domain, to describe the various types of human user involved: the subscriber, who is associated with the home environment & responsible for payment the user, who is authorised to use services by the subscriber (and may have their own user profile) another party, for example the calling party in a call, the called party and so on. They may not be a 3G user The User Domain is linked via the standardised Uu Interface (air interface) to the Access Domain.

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USER

ACCESS Uu Interface

CORE

MS MT Radio TE TE Applications ME

Cu Interface UICC/USIM

External Applications

ME Mobile Equipment MS Mobile Station MT Mobile Termination TE Terminal Equipment USIM UMTS Subscriber Identity Module

Fig. 5 User Domain

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The UMTS Architecture

3. THE ACCESS NETWORK

3.1 The Access Domain and Interfaces
The Access Domain is in direct contact with the User equipment and the core network. This split is intended to decouple access functionality from non-access functionality. The Access domain contains the physical entities to manage resources of the access network and provide the user with a way to access the core network domain. In UMTS, the Access Domain refers to the radio access mechanism, and is also known as the UTRAN (UMTS Terrestrial Access Network). For UMTS phase 1, only the new UTRAN is considered as part of UMTS Access. However the modular approach, and split between core and access network, means that there is no reason to preclude other types of access network developed later on. However all access methods will require use of the USIM. In the early roll-out of UMTS, it remains relevant to also include the GSM/EDGE radio network as an alternative within the access domain, since interworking will be required until UTRAN coverage is fully achieved. The UTRAN is connected via another standardised, open interface, the Iu to the Core Network Domain.

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User

Uu

UTRAN (UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network)

Iu Core Network

A GERAN (GSM/EDGE Radio Access Network)

User

Um

User

SAN (Satellite Access Network)

User

Future Radio Access

Fig. 6 Access Domain & Interfaces

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The UMTS Architecture

3.2 Requirements of the UTRAN

In defining the UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN), a number of requirements and assumptions were identified. These are specified to ensure maximum flexibility in the future evolution of the UMTS concept, and to ensure easy evolution to the UMTS concept from second generation networks. In addition, they provide flexibility in accessing the core network from not only the UTRAN, but from evolved GPRS/EDGE GSM networks, Satellite access networks, fixed access (narrowband and broadband), and future access types such as the Broadband Radio Access Network. The UTRAN is considered a separate entity to the core network, with a defined interface connecting them. This interface is designed to provide a logical separation of signalling and user data transport (this fits in with the evolved GSM network specified for use in UMTS at Release 99). The interfaces are designed to be fully specified, allowing as few options as possible and based on the logical model of the entities concerned. This ensures maximum compatibility between manufacturers. All radio procedures and aspects are fully handled within the UTRAN, including mobility of the radio connection (soft handover, relocation of serving entities etc.). This allows replacement of this radio access network with another access technology, fulfilling one of the basic requirements.

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CORE NETWORK

UTRAN

Logical Separation of Signalling and Data Transport CN and UTRAN functions separate from Transport Functions Macro diversity fully handled in UTRAN Mobility for RRC connection is fully controlled by UTRAN Interfaces based on logical model of the entities (with as few functional options as possible).

Fig. 7 Requirements of the UTRAN

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The UMTS Architecture

3.3 Functions of the UTRAN

UTRAN functions have been specified to provide support for all radio activities needed within the network infrastructure. They can be split into four main areas System Access, Mobility, Radio Channel Ciphering, and Radio Resource Management and Control. System access functions involve broadcasting system information to allow the mobile to configure for access, admission control and radio channel congestion. Mobility functions within the UTRAN are extensive in that they comprise handovers, Serving Radio Network Controller (SRNC) relocations, and additionally, UTRAN Registration Area (URA) and Cell updates for packet mode procedures. These are used so that the UE can fall back to a less active state whilst retaining its packet data virtual connection, known as a Packet Data Protocol Context (which describes the quality of service required as well as specifying the address). In this case, the mobile is tracked at URA or Cell level and paged accordingly when required to receive data. Radio channel ciphering occurs in the UE and Serving RNC (at the RLC or MAC layer), unlike GSM, where only the air interface is ciphered.

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Radio Channel Ciphering and Deciphering

Systems Access Control (Admission, Congestion, System information broadcast)

UTRAN FUNCTIONS

Mobility (Handover, SRNS Relocation)

Radio Resource Management and Control

Fig. 8 UTRAN Functions

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The UMTS Architecture

3.4 UTRAN Architecture General

The UTRAN architecture comprises of one or more Radio Network Controllers (RNCs), each controlling a number of base sites, known as Node B. Each grouping of RNC and its associated Node Bs are collectively known as a Radio Network Sub-system (RNS). Hence an UTRAN is comprised of one or more RNS. Standard interfaces connect each RNS to the Core Network (both Circuit Switched and Packet Switched Domains), and to the User Equipment. These interfaces are known as IuCS, IuPS, and Uu respectively. The UTRAN internal interfaces are also standardised. The Iur connects RNC (and hence RNS), whilst the Iub connects the RNC and Node B.

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CORE NETWORK

Iu (CS & PS)

Radio Network Controller Radio Network Sub-system (RNS) Iub Node B

Iur

RNC

RNS

Fig. 9 UTRAN Architecture and Terminology

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The UMTS Architecture

3.5 The Node B

The term Node B refers to the base station equipment which communicates with the subscribers handset via the radio link (and of course with the main network via a telecoms link). It provides radio resources for a UMTS network, and uses UMTS channel allocation to communicate with the handset. It provides all the RF processing, enabling transmission and reception information to and from the mobile terminal. This information is encoded using the W-CDMA scheme. A single UMTS channel can be used on adjacent Node B sites and in different sectors of the same Node B antenna system. A typical Node B may support a three sector antenna and one or two UMTS carriers, although it is possible to configure up to six sectors and up to three UMTS carriers. Each sector can be used as a different cell. Node B tasks are as follows: conversion of data to and from the radio interface forward error correction rate adaptation W-CDMA spreading & despreading QPSK modulation (Quadrature Phase Shift Keying) measuring the quality & strength of connection determining the frame error rate handover between different sectors on the same Node B (softer handover) participation in power control, enabling the user terminal to adjust its power (inner loop power control)

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NODE B FUNCTIONS

Radio Resource Provider W-CDMA spreading and despreading QPSK Modulation Signal quality & strength measurement Inner loop power control

May support multiple cells through sectored antenna Supports Softer Handover

Converts data to/from W-CDMA transport Forward error correction and frame error rate determination Rate adaptation

Fig. 10 Node B Functions

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The UMTS Architecture

3.6 The RNC

The RNC controls the operation of multiple Node Bs, managing resources such as allocating capacity for data calls, and providing critical signalling such as connection set-up, plus switching and traffic routing functionality. Compared to 2G systems, it is broadly equivalent to the BSC, but also includes some functionality of the MSC. In particular, it enables autonomous Radio Resource Management by the UTRAN by allowing RNCs to directly communicate (via the Iur interface), eliminating this burden from the core network. So all handover processes, even where moving between cells controlled by different RNCs, are kept within the UTRAN. Compare this with the situation in GSM, where handover between different BSC areas required involvement of the MSC, and hence the core network. The RNC can manage many Node Bs, and allocates radio resources and maintains the equilibrium of a live and dynamic network. It must also interface with the core network to provide access to the network operator services, applications, Internet and gateways to networks such as GSM and PSTN. The Iub is the first example of a fully standardised base-station-to-controller interface within commercial mobile networks, and is defined thus in order to increase competition between manufacturers in this very costly part of the network. For example it is now possible to source Node B and RNC equipment from different vendors, and hence for specialist vendors for Node B only, for example, to enter the market. The key features of the RNC are: management of radio resources channelisation code allocation QoS monitoring handover of users between cells on the same site (softer handover) handover of users between cells on different sites (soft handover) handover of users between different UMTS carriers (hard handover) handover of users to GSM networks (hard handover) power control management of user and Node B equipment network alarm correlation

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Controls functions of multiple Node Bs Radio resource management kept within the UTRAN Interfaces with core network Manages handover Power Control Management

CN

RNC

Node B

Fig. 11 The RNC General Functionality

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The UMTS Architecture

3.7 RNC Terminology

The RNC operates in three main modes Controlling, Serving, and Drift, depending on whether an RRC connection is established, and how it is configured. The descriptions of each mode are with respect to a single User Equipment, since each physical RNC contains all the functionality needed for all three modes and is likely to be acting in different modes with respect to different UE.

Controlling RNC
When mobiles are in idle mode, no RRC connection exists. Hence this mode simply describes the functionality of the RNC which controls the Node B on which the mobile is camped (i.e. the selected Node B). Any RRC messages relevant to the UE are terminated at the UE and Node B.

Serving and Drift RNC

Once a mobile enters the RRC Connected mode, an RRC connection exists, and RRC messages relevant only to the UE are terminated at the UE and Serving RNC (SRNC). In Soft Handover, the mobile is effectively served by two or more Node B. In the case where the Node B are connected to different RNC, the Serving RNC remains as the only Serving RNC, whilst the new RNC (now called the Drift RNC, or DRNC) simply provides the radio resources necessary for the added radio link, and acts to carry the Radio Resource messages and user data between the SRNC and UE transparently over the Iur and Iub interfaces on the relevant channels. As a result of Soft Handover, the original radio link may be deleted from the "active set" of links, leaving the Serving RNC without any of its Node B in the active set. In this case, the DRNC could become the SRNC by a process called SRNC relocation. This procedure is considered optional. If another RNC is involved in the active connection through soft handover, it is declared a Drift RNC. The Drift RNC is responsible only for the allocation of code resources, with the original Serving RNC continuing to handle control functions such as admission, radio resource control, congestion, handover and so on. It is possible to reallocate the Serving RNC to the former Drift RNC, if this becomes necessary.

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Node B "Idle" Mode Node B "Connected" Mode Node B Node B

Controlling RNC

Core MSC/VLR or SGSN Network

Serving RNC

Core MSC/VLR or SGSN Network

Serving RNC Drift RNC

Core MSC/VLR or SGSN Network

Soft Handover

Node B Node B "Connected" Mode (After Soft Handover) Node B Node B SRNC Relocation (Optional)

Serving RNC Drift RNC

Core MSC/VLR or SGSN Network

RNC

Core MSC/VLR or SGSN Network

Serving RNC

Fig. 12 RNC Terminology

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The UMTS Architecture

3.8 Functions of the RNC

3.8.1 Controlling RNC Functions The CRNC controls one or more Node B. In practice, this is likely to be tens of Node B. It is responsible for loading and congestion of cells, as well as allocating codes and controlling admission. System information broadcasts for mobiles in idle mode (or packet switched cell or URA paging modes) are originated from the controlling RNC. 3.8.2 Serving RNC Functions The radio bearers and signalling radio bearers for mobiles in connected mode are terminated here (as well as in the User Equipment). All layer two (data link) processing of information to/from the radio interface is processed here for UE in connected mode (layer 1, the physical layer, is provided by the node B). Outer loop power control is supported as well as the handover decisions. Each User Equipment will have only one SRNC. The Serving RNC will often also be the Controlling RNC for the Node B used by the mobile. 3.8.3 Drift RNC Functions The DRNC is any RNC other than the SRNC which controls cells currently used by the mobile. There may be zero, one or more DRNC at any one time for the specified mobile. The DRNC may itself be performing macro-diversity combining and splitting in support of Soft Handover. No layer 2 processing of the data destined for, or received from, the radio interface is performed in the DRNC.

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Controlling RNC (CRNC)

Controls one or more Node Bs. One Node B will have only one CRNC. Controls load and congestion of own cells. Executes admission control and code allocation for new radio links.

Serving RNC (SRNC)

Terminates Radio Bearers and Signalling Radio bearers for the mobile (ie RRC is terminated here in RRC connected mode). Performs Layer 2 processing of data to/from radio interface. Controls handover decisions. Outer loop power control. SRNC may also be CRNC for Node B(s) used by the mobile. Each connected UE has only one SRNC.

Drift RNC (DRNC)

Any RNC, other than SRNC which controls cells used by the mobile. May perform macrodiversity combining and splitting. No layer 2 processing, unless mobile is using common or shared transport channel. A mobile may have one or more DRNCs.

Fig. 13 Controlling, Serving and Drift RNC Functions

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The UMTS Architecture

3.9 Further UTRAN features

In addition to the elements just described, the main new feature of the UTRAN is the existence of a new modulation scheme (W-CDMA) with two modes of access, FDD and TDD. In order to cope with broadband, multimedia traffic which could be circuit or packet, asymmetric or symmetric, a suitable upgrade to the transport layer transmission technology was also required. ATM was selected for this in Release 99, and is applicable to the Iur, Iub and Iu interfaces. Other basic features of the UTRAN are as follows: it is contained within only one UMTS network it supports set-up, renegotiation & clearing of connections with a range of traffic and performance characteristics it supports radio access bearers for broadcast and multicast applications it allows a mobile terminal to handle more than one radio access bearer service simultaneously it permits seamless handover of active radio access bearer services from a single terminal between the cells of one UTRAN. This handover happens with imperceptible loss of speech and without degrading any QoS requirements for data it performs monitoring of cells in idle mode (cell reselection) and in active mode (handover) for UTRANs with different UTRA modes (TDD and FDD), cell selection and paging procedures will accommodate the fact that service areas may be covered by cells supporting just one or both modes. It also supports handover between cells supporting one or both modes it performs determination of the location of the mobile terminal The market reality is that UTRANs will likely start as islands in a sea of GSM BSS, so UMTS is specified to support dual system UMTS/GSM terminals. Issues like cell reselection, paging procedures, handover and so on must therefore be supported in both directions between GSM BSS and UTRAN (although the different bearer capabilities mean that some traffic flows may have to be released or renegotiated during handover).

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 W-CDMA ATM transport Flexible bearer support & connection management Handover functions Location determination Support for procedure and function interworking with GSM BSS

Fig. 14 Further New UTRAN Features

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The UMTS Architecture

3.10 Handovers
A handover primarily allows a moving mobile to remain connected with the network as different coverage areas (cells) are transited. Alternatively, it allows the network operator to control congestion and cell loading by compelling a mobile to hand over between adjacent cells in the overlap region (or even between hierarchical overlaid cells). Of increased importance for UMTS, though, is the possibility to hand over between cells, frequencies, or even access network types for reasons of service requirements (data rates, capacity, and quality of service issues). Different handover types exist. Hard handovers (as seen in GSM) are needed for handover between different UMTS carrier frequencies and between systems. Soft handover provides handover between cells handled by different Node Bs, whilst softer handover allows handover between cells handled by the same Node B. Soft and softer handovers can be handled entirely within the UTRAN. Hard handovers may be handled entirely within the UTRAN for handovers between carrier frequencies. The Core Network will be involved for inter-system hard handovers. 3.10.1 Softer Handover In around 10% of connections at any time, the mobile will be served by more than one cell or sector operating on the same frequency and provided by the same Node B. With the same codes used, the received signals are simply input into the Rake Receiver as different components of the same signal. This process, together with the Rake combining of any multi-path components enhances the signal. Combining in this case is achieved entirely within the Node B and the User Equipment. The process is known as micro-diversity. Only a single power control loop is active per connection, provided by the Node B.

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Core Network

SRNC

Node B Combined signal received via Rake processing

Communication via more than one air interface concurrently Rake receivers at Node B and mobile station used to combine signal (similar to multipath reception) Occurs in about 10% of connections Only one power control loop per connection is active.

Fig. 15 Softer Handover (Micro Diversity)

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The UMTS Architecture

3.10.2 Soft Handover In the case of the soft handover, combining is done in the RNC, with the different arriving signals being continually assessed and the best signal chosen (every 10 80ms) for inclusion in the combined signal. The process is known as macro-diversity. Soft handover is generally thought to occur in about 20 40% of connections, and hence increases the overall requirement for transmission capacity in the UTRAN transport network. Additional Rake fingers are also required to cope with the increased number of "wanted" paths. One of the main reasons for employing the soft and softer handover techniques in CDMA is to mitigate the near-far effect, where a closer mobile contributes disproportionately to the overall interference levels. Hence in all handover cases, power control is critical. For softer handover, only one power control loop is active (i.e. only one Node B involved), but for soft handover, more than one power control loop is active (power control is now being provided by more than one Node B). This does not present a problem since the mobile simply responds to the Node B with the lower power requirement, minimising overall interference in the system. Soft and softer handover can be used simultaneously.

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Combining/Splitting

Node B

Core Network

SRNC Node B

DRNC

Node B Communication via more than one air interface concurrently. Signal split/combined at RNC (best frame chosen) Requires additional: Rake receiver channels in Node Bs Transmission links Node B <-> RNC Rake fingers in mobile stations Occurs in about 20 - 40% of connections Power control active for each Node B (mobile responds to Node B with lowest uplink power requirements). Can be combined with softer handover

Fig. 16 Soft Handover (Macro Diversity)

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The UMTS Architecture

UTRAN PROTOCOLS
3.11 Functions Of The UTRAN Protocols
The functions of each of the UTRAN control protocols are outlined opposite. RANAP includes those functions needed to manage location procedures which may need Core Network interaction, such as Hard Handover, and SRNS relocation. Radio access bearer management, security, paging, identity management, and transparent transfer of Non-Access Stratum signalling are all supported by RANAP. RNSAP provides functions which are split into four modules. Basic inter RNC mobility is supported in order to provide soft handover between RNS and to transfer waiting data during SRNS relocations. In addition, support is provided for both dedicated channel traffic (transparently transferred between SRNC and UE in dedicated transport channels) and common channel traffic (transferred from the SRNC to the DRNC for inclusion in the common channels being supported by that DRNC which is also acting as the CRNC for the Node B in question). NBAP functions are classed as either common or dedicated, depending on whether they are concerned with common or dedicated channels. RNC in Controlling, Serving or Drift Modes are supported. The functions are generally concerned with the use or configuration of the radio channels, including paging, access requests, radio link measurements, handovers and fault management.

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Core Network

RANAP FUNCTIONS INCLUDE: Relocation SRNS & Hard Handover Radio Access Bearer Management Paging and ID Management UE <-> CN Signalling Transfer (Transparently) Security Mode Control Location Reporting RNSAP FUNCTIONS INCLUDE: Basic Inter - RNC Mobility Dedicated Channel Traffic Support Common Channel Traffic Support Global Resource Management (optional) (Implemented in Four Separate Modules Shown Above)
RNSAP

SRNC

RANAP

DRNC

NBAP FUNCTIONS INCLUDE: Common Setup First Radio Link of UE RACH, FACH & PCH Handling Reporting Cell/Node B Measurements Cell Configuration Fault Management Dedicated RL Addition, Release & Reconfiguration for one UE context Dedicated and Shared Channel Handling Softer Combining Support Reporting of RL Specific Measurements RL Fault Management

NODE B

Fig. 17 UTRAN Protocol Functions

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The UMTS Architecture

4. THE UTRAN TRANSPORT NETWORK

4.1 Requirements Of The Transport Network
As a network of interconnected nodes, the UTRAN presents familiar problems to the designer of a transport network. The UTRAN provides the User Equipment (UE) with access to the Core Network (CN) for both Circuit Switched and Packet Switched services as well as providing transport for all signalling interactions, including those confined within the UTRAN, those between the UTRAN and the Core Network, and those being transferred through the UTRAN from UE to CN or vice-versa. The W-CDMA air interface has been designed to support services which vary widely in terms of acceptable quality of service. Hence services with varying data rates, delay tolerance, delay variance, and acceptable error rates are all possible. The UTRAN transport network has therefore been specified to support the varying qualities of service required for all the data types.

4.2 The Options

In choosing the technology, reliability, cost, flexibility, scalability, delivery time scales, and not least suitability for the task at hand were all factors. Specifying a protocol especially for UMTS was deemed not necessary since ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) already existed and provided a relatively close match to the requirements. Fortunately, the transport protocol has been specified separately from the UTRAN protocols themselves, hence future flexibility in choice of technology is assured. At the moment, ATM is specified rather than an Internet Protocol (IP) solution, however the continuing work on IP is bringing it closer to satisfying the requirements (and at an inevitably low cost).

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UTRAN Transport Network

SGSN

Rest of Network (CS & PS)

RNC Packet Switched & Circuit Switched User Data & Signalling

MSC

Node B

RNC RNC

S n t ig n a R a d e r lli i o B fa c n g e e C R a d i a re r s ont o Bearers rol In f o r m a ti o n

Fig. 18 UTRAN Transport Network Requirements

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The UMTS Architecture

4.3 ATM Operation

Within a network of ATM switches, virtual channels and virtual paths through the network from entry point to exit point can be provided by ensuring that the switches have the relevant identifiers and routing information available. This information can be pre-configured, or set up within the switches dynamically by specific signalling messages as a requirement for a path or channel through the network arises. Switching is achieved by the use of fixed length (53 Octet) cells with appropriate identifiers. Each cell is identified at each ATM switch and simply directed on to the next switch in accordance with the routing information held in the switch. The identifiers will change as the cell passes through the switch, however, each switch will have been programmed with the correct identifiers and the overall path or channel will still be valid. Switching can occur on two levels at the path level, which may simply switch by analysing only the "virtual path identifier" (irrespective of the "virtual channel identifier"); and at the channel level, where both identifiers are analysed and the cell routed accordingly. This can allow flexibility in network provision by allowing simpler processing at virtual path switches, and more in-depth at virtual channel switches. ATM physical switches can of course have both levels of switching available.

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ATM NETWORK

Virtual channels/paths through the network are set up by O&M action or dynamically using signalling Channels and paths identified using VCIs (Virtual Channel Identifiers) and VPIs (Virtual Path Identifiers) in the ATM Cell Header

ATM Switch

Fig. 19 ATM Operation

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The UMTS Architecture

4.4 The ATM Cell

On any link between switches, the cells for a single path or channel will be allocated as required (asynchronously) within the overall synchronous cell stream. The cell itself is made up of 48 octets of data (which may include higher layer control information) with 5 octets of ATM header information. This information includes: The Virtual Path Identifier (VPI) The Virtual Channel Identifier (VCI) Payload Type (PT) Cell Loss Priority (CLP) Header Error Correction (HEC) The VPI and VCI are used in the switching process. The PT identifies the type of payload. The Cell Loss Priority allows cells to be prioritised in terms of which ones could be discarded first in congestion situations. HEC provides a mechanism for checking for errors within the header (only).

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The ATM Cell: 48 Octets 5 Octets HEADER: (VPI/VCI/PT/ CLP/HEC)

DATA

Contains User Data and Adaptation Information (Quality of service requirements)

ATM Cell Streams: Continuous stream of cells

Asynchronous allocation of cells in synchronious stream

Fig. 20 The ATM Cell

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The UMTS Architecture

4.5 ATM and Quality Of Service

It is not the ATM cell itself which provides the necessary control and protocols to support different Qualities of Service (QoS), but the specified adaptation process which occurs between the data to be transported and the ATM cell. The adaptation process introduces extra overhead (control data) onto the data to be placed within the 48 octets of data within the ATM cell. In terms of protocol, the ATM Adaptation Layer (AAL) lies directly between the data to be carried and the ATM layer. Four different AALs have been specified for use with ATM, and two have been adopted within the UTRAN AAL2 and AAL5. The characteristics of each are shown opposite. Between them, they provide support for all necessary UTRAN QoS requirements.

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AAL5

Variable bit rates Packet type data Segmentation & Reassembly Constant delays not required Suitable for signalling, packet user, data transfer etc

AAL5

AAL5

ATM NETWORK

AAL2

AAL2

AAL2

Variable bit rates Circuit type data Segmentation & Reassembly Constant delays required Suitable for multimedia, video etc AAL-ATM Adaptation Layer

Fig. 21 ATM and Quality of Service

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The UMTS Architecture

5. THE CORE NETWORK

5.1 The Core Network Domain
The core network contains the physical entities providing support for the network features and telecoms services, for example the management of user location, control of network services; and switching & transmission mechanisms for signalling & user information. An important logical split is made within the core network for UMTS Release 99, between a circuit-switched and packet-switched domain. CS (circuit-switched) Domain This refers to the set of all core network entities offering CS type connection, i.e. one for which dedicated network resources are allocated at connection establishment and held until connection release. PSTN and ISDN are examples of other circuit-switched networks. In UMTS the CS domain provides data service support of at least 64kb/s. PS (packet-switched) Domain This refers to all core network entities for PS type connection, i.e. one which transports user information using autonomous concatenation of bits called packets, where each packet can be routed independently of the previous one. The Internet is the most well known example of a packet-switched network, although other public data networks (PDNs) do exist, including Mobitex, RAM, CDPD and so on. In UMTS, the PS domain provides support for data service capability of up to 2Mb/s. The Iu interface is therefore subdivided into IuCS and IuPS in order to support connection of each of these core network domains to the single access network (UTRAN).

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User Domain

UTRAN

IuPS

IuCS

CORE NETWORK DOMAIN

PS Domain

CS Domain

PS Networks

CS Networks

Fig. 22 The Core Network Domains

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The UMTS Architecture

5.2 Specific Entities in the UMTS Release 99 Core Network Architecture

It is possible to define three categories of network elements in Release 99: 1. GSM core network elements: MSC, VLR, HLR, AuC and EIR 2. GSM enhancements (GSM Phase 2+): GPRS to support packet-switching CAMEL (and other toolkits) as a basis for the VHE 3. New UMTS-specific enhancements, in particular the new UTRAN and USIM. This new UTRAN can be connected to the GSM Phase 2+ core network. We have already discussed the basic elements of the UTRAN, whereas the first two categories above refer to elements within the core network. Release 00 takes the first steps towards integrating circuit switched domain and packet switched domain transports.

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1. GSM Core Network Elements

circuit switching databases

2. GSM Phase 2+ Enhancements

packet switching through GPRS CAMEL and other toolkits

3. UMTS specific elements

UTRAN USIM

Fig. 23 The Concept of Strata

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The UMTS Architecture

5.3 The Circuit Switched Domain & GSM Core Network Elements
The GSM core network elements form the basis for the circuit-switched domain in UMTS, albeit with some enhancements to support the higher data rates and other requirements of UMTS services. The entities specific to CS domain are: MSC, GMSC, VLR. MSC The MSC provides the interface between the radio system and fixed network, performing all necessary functions to handle CS services to and from mobile terminals. As such, an MSC will interface with several base stations. In effect it is an exchange which performs switching and signalling functions for mobiles within its designated area of control. It needs to take into account the allocation of radio resources and the mobile nature of users, which impact the location registration & handover between cells. Gateway MSC The GMSC provides routing to the appropriate MSC where a mobile terminal is located, after having interfaced with the databases within the home environment. VLR The Visitor Location Register is used by an MSC to retrieve information for mobile stations currently in its area. A mobile terminal registers as it enters the area, at which point the VLR and HLR (Home Location Register see below) exchange information on the subscriber and his/her service capabilities. It is the VLR which tracks the current location of the terminal, although the HLR will know on which VLR the subscriber is registered. An additional element which is required in UMTS is: Interworking Function (IWF) In generic terms, an IWF provides the functionality to allow interworking of differing networks such as ISDN, PSTN and PDNs (i.e. protocol conversion). A new element required for the CS part of the core network in UMTS is such an interworking function to provide protocol conversion between the A (GSM) and Iu-CS (UMTS) interfaces where the radio network joins the Core Network. This requirement is in order to enable the core network to operate with both the existing 2G and new UMTS radio access.

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UMTS ME

GSM ME

UTRAN IuCS IWF

GSM/ EDGE BSS

MSC VLR

GMSC

New in UMTS GSM Phase 2+ PSTN, ISDN, etc

Fig. 24 Circuit-Switched Domain

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The UMTS Architecture

5.4 The GSM Location Registers

The core GSM elements also include some further databases, which are carried forward into UMTS with appropriate modifications as required: HLR The Home Location register contains subscriber information, and is the register to which a subscriber is assigned. It will also contain information enabling charging and packet routing of messages to the area where the mobile is currently registered (for GPRS support), plus various location-service related information if that is also supported. Subscriber information consist of: the IMSI (international Mobile Subscriber ID) Mobile Station ISDN numbers Packet Data Protocol Addresses for GPRS LMU indicator for location services information on service access/restrictions Authentication Centre (AuC) The AuC stores data for each subscriber to allow the IMSI to be authenticated and to allow ciphering of communication over the radio path. In short, it allows the mobile to use the network. The data required for these two processes is transmitted via the HLR to the VLR, MSC and SGSN as required. Equipment ID Register (EIR) The EIR is responsible for storing the International Mobile Equipment IDs (IMEIs) in the GSM system. These classify equipment as white, grey or blacklisted, and so enable service to be prevented to stolen or uncertified terminals. This set of registers can be grouped together for simplicity to define the Home Subscriber Server (HSS).

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UMTS ME

GSM ME

UTRAN IuCS IWF

GSM/ EDGE BSS

EIR

MSC VLR

HLR

AUC

GMSC

HSS PSTN, ISDN etc

Fig. 25 Location Registers

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The UMTS Architecture

5.5 The Packet-Switched Domain & GPRS Core Network Elements

Since the circuit-switched side of the network is limited to 64kb/s by its ISDN-based switching capability, whereas GPRS allows direct interconnect with data networks of much higher bit-rates, GPRS is a prerequisite for the introduction of UMTS. Entities specific to PS are the GPRS-specific entities, the SGSN (serving GPRS support node) and GGSN (gateway GSN). The GGSN and SGSN have comparable functions and architectural positions as the GMSC and MSC/VLR in the circuit-switched domain. They are IP routers, which allow direct transmission between mobile terminals and data networks such as the Internet, Intranets, X25 and so on. The SGSN includes a location register function which stores subscription information and location information for packet-switched services for each subscriber registered in the SGSN. The GGSN stores subscription information and routing information for each subscriber for which the GGSN has at least one PDP context active. This information is used to tunnel packet data destined for a GPRS terminal through to the SGSN where this terminal is registered. Once again, a new interworking function is required in order that the SGSN can communicate both with the new UTRAN and the existing GSM BSS.

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UMTS ME

GSM ME

UTRAN IuPS IWF

Gb

GSM/ EDGE BSS

IWF

SGSN

EIR

MSC VLR

HLR

GGSN HSS Internet, X25 etc

AUC

GSMC

Fig. 26 Packet-Switched Domain

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The UMTS Architecture

5.6 Operation in the Core Network CS Domain

5.6.1 User and Control Information in the CS Domain Within the CS Domain of the Core Network, MSCs provide the switching functionality and control for setting up, tearing down and supervising circuits, as well as some support for supplementary services. In addition, the HLR and SCP provide support for Mobility and Operator Specific Services respectively. The VLR also provides support for mobility and is co-located with the MSC. This is illustrated in Fig 4. User data is transferred between MSCs, and between the GMSC and external network via traffic circuits, without further protocols being added (although overhead is introduced at the physical level, the amount and format being dependent on the transmission system being used). The control information is passed within Signalling System Number 7 protocols, and makes use of the lower layer signalling network (which would usually share the same transmission infrastructure as the user data).

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HLR

Signalling (Control Information) Circuits (User Data)

SCP 3

MSC

MSC/ VLR

GMSC

MSC 1
Cir ata cui rD t ( U se )

Core Network 1 User Data 2 Traffic Channel Set Up, Clear Down and Supervision (includes Supplementary Service Support)

3 Service Control 4 Mobility Management

Fig. 27 User and Control Information in the CS Domain

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The UMTS Architecture

5.6.2 Signalling in the CS Domain SS7 Overview In the circuit-switched domain, MSCs are switching centres which hold all the switching functions needed to support mobiles in their area, routing transmission paths for both the actual user data, and the signalling messages needed to control services. They may also hold interworking functions required to interwork with other networks such as the PSTN. These MSCs are connected to each other and to the HLR and other databases using a variation of the ITU standardised SS7 (signalling system 7). SS7 is a commonchannel signalling system, and the circuit-switched user data network is actually separated from the packet-switched SS7 signalling network. SS7 operates using a specified stack of protocols. SS7 provides call control by exchanging control messaging between the MSCs and fixed network switches. This may be via direct paths or via signalling transfer points (STPs), designed to route packets across this network. A third entity, the service control point (SCP), is a database which may control information relevant to routing, for example translating a freephone (0800) number into a routing address within the network. No longer do individual switches need to be modified to introduce a new service. Instead, such changes are made to the SCP elements within the signalling network, which controls the user data switching performed at the MSCs/Switches. The SCPs and MSCs/Switches communicate via a standardised interface, and (if it has this functionality), the MSC/Switched is termed a Service Switching Point (SSP). In the UMTS CS domain, the MSCs correspond to the SS7 SSPs, providing both basic switching, plus access points to supplementary and advanced IN services. Location registers, such as the HLR and VLR, and additional service elements such as the CAMEL Service Environment, are similar in functionality to the SCPs. Where remote data bases are being accessed, a Signalling Point Relay (SPR) allows the SS7 entitys unique global address to be translated into the simpler format (point codes) used in the individual SS7 packet-switched networks (called the Message Transfer Port), as the signalling message is passed from one network to another en-route to its remote destination.

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SS7 NETWORK

MSC (SSP)

STP

STP

MSC (SSP)

Fig. 28 SS7 within the Core Network CS Domain

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User Data

Databases (SCP, HLR, CSE)

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The UMTS Architecture

5.7 Operation in the Core Network PS Domain

5.7.1 User and Control Information in the PS Domain The Packet-Switched domain uses packets of information to carry both user data and the control information for the user data between GSNs. This means a common set of packet protocols can be defined to allow this exchange of information to take place. The intermediate routers handle the information in the same way, simply routing it on to its final destination (the SGSN or GGSN). For mobility control and provision of operator specific services, the GSNs communicate with the HLR and SCP respectively using the standard techniques found within the Circuit-Switched domain.

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HLR

Signalling (Control Information) Packets of Data (Control and User Information)

4 3

SCP

Router

SGSN

GGSN

2
Pa cke ts (U

Router

s er & C

ta) Da rol ont

Core Network

1 2 3 4

User Data Control Data Service Control Mobility Management

Fig. 29 User and Control Information in the PS Domain

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The UMTS Architecture

5.8 OTHER NETWORK ENTITIES

5.8.1 Some other entities for specific services Although the above are the basic and key components for GSM and GPRS based systems, and hence the basis for the first release of UMTS, it should be noted that there are various other network elements which relate to the delivery of specific services. Notably For SMS: Two elements are important in the delivery of SMS. Firstly, the SMS Gateway MSC acts as an interface between the SMSC (Short Message Service Centre) and the PLMN for the delivery of messages. Its counterpart is the SMS Interworking MSC, which acts in reverse, as an interface between the PLMN and SMSC for the submission of messages. These connect to the serving MSC/GSN. For Location Services: The Serving Mobile Location Centre (SMLC) manages the overall scheduling of resources to perform positioning. In UMTS this functionality is integrated into the Serving RNC, an element of the UTRAN. For CAMEL: To support CAMEL features, including Service Control Functions, Switching Functions and so on, the CAMEL Service Environment (CSE) is defined and lies within the Home Network. For Cell Broadcast: The Cell Broadcast Centre (CBC) manages Cell Broadcast messages and determines delivery parameters. The CBC attaches directly to the RNC via the Interface IuBC, for which a mandatory logical interface protocol is defined. Other entities include: the Group Call Register Entity, holding information on Voice Group Call or Voice Broadcast Services the Shared Interworking Function, providing interworking for data/fax calls various Number Portability entities However, detailed discussion of these further entities is beyond the scope of this overview course.

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SMS
Short Message Service Centre Connects to the UMTS Core Network via SMS Gateway/Interworking MSC

Location Services
Serving Mobile Location Centre (SMLC) Located within the UTRAN Radio Network Controller

CAMEL
Camel Service Environment Located within the Home Network

Cell Broadcast
Cell Broadcast Centre Connects directly to the UTRAN Radio Network Controller

Fig. 30 Specific Services and Support Elements

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The UMTS Architecture

6. IN/CAMEL IN UMTS
6.1 Intelligent Networks
Intelligent Networks originally provided advanced features such as freephone, calling card and so on, by providing intelligence within databases which could translate these dialled numbers into standard routing numbers within networks. These early services were soon followed up by further advanced services based on this intelligence, incorporating interaction with the user to further customise services. Traditionally, switching equipment would need to be upgraded each time a new service was required. IN separates service intelligence and switching, such that to implement any defined Capability Set of services, upgrades to switches are required, but the addition of the actual services within this capability set do not require switch upgrades. This means that new services can be quicker and cheaper to install, and that service creation and switching is split into two markets, thereby increasing vendor competition. IN can provide such services only when there is an exchange of data between the switch and an application or database which has knowledge about number translation or other features. Most INs, including GSM Phase 2+ networks, use lower layer SS7 protocols to enable the Switches (known as Service Switching Points, or SSPs) to communicate with databases known as Service Control Points (or SCPs). The application or database must reside in the IN, and a standardised protocol layer known as INAP is used to enable interaction between the SSP and SCP. INAP lies above the internationally standard protocols which form the SS7 signalling system, incorporating MTP, SCCP and TCAP. The intelligent applications which control IN services are defined by the operator, and are not themselves standardised. This means that IN offers a route to operator differentiation, but equally that in many cases the same services cannot be offered outside the network of that operator.

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Pre-IN:

Switching & Service Control

IN: Intelligent Applications Service Creation Tools Service Control Point SS7 (INAP)

Service Switching Point Switching

Fig. 31 Intelligent Networks

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The UMTS Architecture

6.2 CAMEL
CAMEL (Customised Application for Mobile network Enhanced Logic) is a feature designed to provide support for services of operators which are not standardised services (e.g. operator-specific IN services), even when subscribers are roaming outside the home network. CAMEL is a network feature, not a supplementary service. In order for CAMEL to function, information exchange is required between the Home and Visited networks, and subscribers who have access to CAMEL services are marked within each network. The concept is basically that of IN, in that it is the MSCs (now termed SSPs within the CAMEL context) which communicate with the SCP. The big difference is that the MSC and SCP may well be in different networks (the SCP will be located in the subscribers home network for home network operator specific service support). Due to different networks being involved, the CAMEL standard is more tightly defined than IN capability set 1 (IN CS-1), although it is still seen as an extension of CS-1. It is specified within GSM Phase 2+, but is a core feature of the Virtual Home Environment (VHE) concept of UMTS. GPRS and Circuit-Switched connections are both supported by CAMEL.

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SCP

CAMEL Service Environment HOME UMTS NETWORK

Ca

me

l In

ter

ac

tio

ns

Serving MSC/GSN (SSP)

a Tr

ffic

Ch SERVING UMTS NETWORK

n an

el

Gateway MSC/GSN

Fig. 32 CAMEL Within UMTS

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The UMTS Architecture

7. CHARGING

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CS Domain: Time Location Number of Channels PS Domain: Time Location QoS Data volume

Fig. 33 Charging
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The UMTS Architecture

8. CORE NETWORK TRANSPORT

The CS Domain will in most cases be brought forward directly from an operators existing GSM Phase 2+ core network. Such networks commonly use PDH or SDH, although there is no standard specified for this. Equally in the PS domain, no standard transport is specified any IP network can lie between the GGSN and SGSN. ATM is a common choice, since it is designed for robust support of packet networks. ATM is already specified for transport within the UTRAN. It seems likely that both core network domains may also migrate to ATM in UMTS networks, particularly when operators seek to combine the transport systems of the CS and PS domains, a major goal behind the network architectures proposed in Release 4 and beyond. Such an upgrade will require the addition of an interworking function within the MSCs to support ATM-PSTN interworking, and provide support for the ATM protocol stack. However currently, the choice of transport layers remains up to the operator, and is not defined in the standards.

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CS DOMAIN PS DOMAIN

Any IP Network Commonly uses ATM

Mobility & Service Databases

PDH or SDH UTRAN

ATM Based

Goal is to combine PS & CS Transport Systems (Release 4 Architecture)

Fig. 34 Transport in the Core Network

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The UMTS Architecture

9. MOBILE IP
9.1 Mobile IP: Basics
Mobile IP is an ongoing standardisation project within the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force), who are now also a market representation partner within 3GPP. The aim of Mobile IP is to enable a mobile to communicate using the same IP address at all times, regardless of the IP network through which it accesses the Internet. If this were not the case, then active TCP sessions would be broken each time the mobile wanted to access through a different network (e.g. UMTS vs. LAN), meaning that guarantees of service quality, and a seamless view for the application, would not be possible. Mobile IP provides a mechanism whereby a mobile station is given a permanent IP home address, which belongs within its original home network. If accessing through this home network, it will therefore just act like any non-mobile station and can be reached through normal IP routing. However when it accesses through some visited network, it is assigned a care of address (COA) which belongs to this visited network, and which identifies the current location of the mobile. Since other stations do not know the location of the mobile, they will send packets to its permanent home address, where the packets are received by a router which is assigned the status of the home agent (HA). This HA forwards packets onto the mobile station using tunnelling, having previously been provided with the COA by the mobile. The mobile station can answer directly to the other station, although using its home address rather than the COA as the source address for the message. Any time the mobile station moves to attach via a different IP subnetwork, it will register its new COA with its HA.

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Home Agent

Permanent (Home) Address

COA Can Answer Direct (Uses Home Address, not COA) Caller Called

Visited Network

COA Care of Address

Fig. 35 Mobile IP
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The UMTS Architecture

9.2 Mobile IPv4 vs. IPv6

In the case of IPv4, a COA address will most likely be a router, called the foreign agent (FA), which will have the functionality to enable it to forward messages on to the mobile station. A single COA may apply to more than one mobile station. Overlaying Mobile IP onto a GPRS/UMTS network means enabling the GGSN to have this FA functionality, able to set up a PDP context for the mobile station, and tunnel PDUs from the GGSN towards the user. A key advantage in moving to IPv6 is that the number of IP addresses available becomes effectively unlimited. It is possible to assign mobile stations a direct COA, using some form of automatic assignment mechanism. Messages from the home agent can be tunnelled directly towards the mobile station. If the mobile station has a direct COA, then the core network tunnelling provided by GTP becomes redundant, since data can be tunnelled directly from source to user. Indeed it will be possible to combine the GGSN and SGSN into a single Internet GPRS Support node (IGSN), which acts as the FA and marks the end of the UMTSspecific network. The IGSN would need to support current SGSN functionality, supporting MAP communication with UMTS location registers, plus of course support Mobile IP and any accounting procedures required by an FA. In effect, an ultimate scenario is that Mobile IP may handle mobility management and tunnelling within the PS domain core network.

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a) IPv4 Plus GPRS/UMTS

HA PDP/ GTP SGSN PDP/ GTP GGSN/ FA

COA

Visited Network COA Care of Address HA Home Agent FA Foreign Agent IGSN Internet GPRS Support Node

b) IPv6 Plus GPRS/UMTS

HA

COA COA IGSN

Visited Network

Fig. 36 Mobile IP Evolution

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The UMTS Architecture

10. RELEASE 4
10.1 Release 4 Control & Data Separation in the CS domain
In particular, Release 4 introduces the concept of separation of the control and user planes (i.e. signalling & user data transport). Whereas Release 99 is based on re-using and extending the equipment from GSM core networks, Release 00 makes the first move towards implementing a full IP core network, and introduces new multimedia server elements. The advantage of this new approach is in moving towards a scenario needing only a single transport network for both voice and data (i.e. both the circuit and packet switched domains), so the same IP or ATM based interface can be employed to transport packets between the Radio Access Network and the external PSTN or IP networks. In particular, the first step is that the circuit-switched domain is evolved by splitting the MSC into two entities, a Media Gateway which handles actual user data transport (transport plane), and the MSC server, which lies within the control plane, and is involved in signalling and control of the Media Gateway. Non IP-native terminals (e.g. legacy GSM handsets) are handled by the MSC servers.

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1. Release 99 CS Domain

UTRAN

Iucs

MSC

Signalling & User Data

GMSC

PSTN

HSS

2. Release 4 CS Domain

UTRAN

MGW Control MSC Server

User Data

MGW Control

PSTN

Signalling

GMSC Server

HSS

Fig. 37 Evolution of Circuit Switched Domain

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The UMTS Architecture

10.2 The IP Multimedia Subsystem

In the packet switched domain, transport continues between the Serving SGN and Gateway GSN, but a new subsystem, the IP Multimedia subsystem, is introduced into the core network. This system is introduced in order to enable support for IP telephony a well as IP multimedia applications, direct to multimedia, IP-addressable terminals. The use of IPv6 is mandatory within this IP Multimedia subsystem, and control of the system is centred around a new element, the Multimedia Call Server (CSCF Call State Control Function). The CSCF is a SIP server, creating a SIP session to the mobile terminal. A Media Gateway takes care of the transformation of user and signalling traffic between this packet-based domain and the PSTN world, or the IP Multimedia Subsystem can of course connect directly into an external IP network via the GGSN. Other new elements include the Media Gateway Control Function (MGCF) and the Media Resource Function (MRF).

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UTRAN

SGSN

GGSN

Internet etc

HSS

MRF

CSCF (SIP Server)

Signalling Only User Data

MGCF

MGW

PSTN etc

Fig. 38 IP Multimedia Subsystem

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The UMTS Architecture

10.3 New Domain Concept in Release 4 and Beyond

Taking the new architectural evolutions into account, it is now possible to summarise the new UMTS. The Radio Access and User Domains remain structurally the same. The Core Network remains divided into circuit and packet switched domains, with the IP multimedia Core Network subsystem newly added. It is also useful to define the service subsystem, which can link into each of the core network domains and the IP multimedia subsystem by means of a service control point to the Open Service Architecture. All these various systems of course must continue to interact with the Home Subscriber Server, HSS. For the sake of clarity, not all the elements or interfaces within and between the various elements are shown.

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Services Subsystem

IP Multimedia CN Subsystem

OSA SCP CSCF

HSS GGSN MSC Server CS Domain Radio Access SGSN

PS Domain

User Domain

Fig. 39 Domains in All-IP UMTS

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The UMTS Architecture

11. NETWORK EVOLUTION

11.1 3GPP Release 00/Release 4
Release 00 (Release 4) and future planned releases of UMTS concentrate on the evolution of the core network architecture defined in Release 99. In particular, the long-term aim is to move towards an architecture which is all IP. The phases of standardisation can be summarised as shown opposite. This reiterates the major changes as follows, from GSM as the original starting point: GPRS introduced a packet switched domain into the system, and allowed IP services tunnelled directly to ISPs (single media IP). UMTS Release 99 added a brand new radio interface. UMTS Release 00/4 and future releases, will integrate the packet and circuitswitched domains in the core network, adding new server elements to achieve this, and ultimately enabling true IP Multimedia services to be offered.

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IP Multimedia Tunnels to ISPs PS Single Media Services CS

PS Uses GSNs Core Network CS Uses MSCs

IP Multimedia Subsystem GSNs Continue Servers Replace MSCs

Air Interface

GSM GSM

EDGE

UTRAN

GPRS

R99

R00 (R4)

Fig. 40 Phases of Standards

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ANNEX 1
DOMAINS

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The UMTS Architecture

A.1
A.1.1

DOMAINS IN UMTS
Domain Structure The physical architecture in UMTS is modelled using the concept of domains, where areas of the network are identified as separate entities, with each being made up of the physical elements in that part of the network. Standard interfaces connect the different domains together. The domains are organised hierarchically such that the first split simply describes a User Equipment Domain and an Infrastructure Domain. However, these are further broken down into the USIM Domain and Mobile Equipment Domain (for the User Equipment Domain), and Access Network Domain and Core Network Domain (for the Infrastructure Domain). The Core Network Domain is then further broken down into Serving, Transit and Home Network Domains. In general, it is fairly clear what each domain represents.

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HOME NETWORK Zu Cu Uu Iu SERVING NETWORK Yu

Home Network Domain

TRANSPORT NETWORK

Serving Network Domain Mobile Equipment Domain User Equipment Domain USIM Domain Access Network Domain

Transit Network Domain

Core Network Domain

Infrastructure Domain

Fig. A.1 Domains in UMTS

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