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The RNCs and nodes B are connected to each other and to the core
network with three interfaces as shown in Figure. The Iu interfaces connects
each RNC to the core network (similar to the GSM BSS A and Gb interfaces
connecting the BSS to the core network) and is responsible for control of
handover/reselection, bearer control and negotiation. The Iub connects each
node B to its controlling RNC (a similar concept to the Abis interface in GSM)
and enables distribution of the radio network of RNCs (no GSM equipment)
and is predominantly used for mobility-specific radio reason which relate to
the soft handover and relocation processes.
The interfaces developed within and between the UTRAN and the
evolved GSM/GPRS core network use the ATM lower layers combined with
common higher level control protocols for both the circuit-switched(CS) and
packet-switched (PS) domains[3-4]. The common RANAP protocol provides
resource control and allocation, handover and bearer requirements, control,
and certain charging and control linkage between the UTRAN and core
network.
Network Launch Configurations
Those network operators who already have GSM/GPRS networks have two
basic choices for the UMTS launch architecture- an integrated solutions or an
overlay solution (as shown in figure ). The integrated solution sees the
current GSM/GPRS core network aspect upgraded and reused with the same
switching (MSC) and routing (GSN) elements used for both GSM and UMTS
radio. The new UTRAN is connected to this network using the re-application
of common O&M systems, service-delivery mechanisms, switch sites, and
platforms; however, the capacity, performance and network growth impacts of
connecting relatively new and unproven W-CDMA access technology to a
live, service-providing network need careful assessment.
The overlay solution relies upon operators using a different (overlay)
network of switching (MSC) and routing (GSN) elements to support the UMTS
radio. The overlay solution enables a parallel independent development of the
UMTS access with lower risks to the live GSM/GPRS network. The 3G MSCs
need similar service delivery mechanisms to be developed (to enable users to
receive equipment services via 3G as well as 2G), as well as O&M and
site/platform capacity to support the new infrastructure. The benefits of the
overlay is that operators can roll out and develop theUMTS aspect of the
network in relative isolation from the live, revenue-earning 2G network. The
open Iu(UTRAN core networks) interface enable operators to try an alternate
supplier for 3G, or to source a single supplier, turnkey network.
Network requirement and influencing technologies