Inter-RAT Handover Procedure: About This Chapter

RAN Signaling Analysis Guide
9 Inter-RAT Handover Procedure
9
About This Chapter
Inter-RAT Handover Procedure
The inter-RAT handover procedure is performed to hand over a UE from a WCDMA cell to a GSM cell or the other way round. This chapter describes inter-RAT handover in terms of types, protocols, triggering conditions, signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT handover, signaling tracing on the RNC LMT, and elementary procedures. This chapter also describes the elementary procedures in terms of functions, triggering conditions, procedure, and signaling in abnormal conditions. 9.1 Types of Inter-RAT Handover Based on the direction of handover, inter-RAT handover is categorized into two types: interRAT handover from WCDMA to GSM and inter-RAT handover from GSM to WCDMA. 9.2 Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM is performed to hand over the CS services of a UE from the WCDMA system to the GSM system. 9.3 Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA is performed to hand over the CS services of a UE from the GSM system to the WCDMA system. 9.4 Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The procedure of inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM is performed to hand over the PS services of a UE from the WCDMA system to the GSM system. 9.5 Inter-RAT PS Handover from GSM to WCDMA The procedure of inter-RAT PS handover from GSM to WCDMA is performed through cell reselection to WCDMA initiated by the UE.
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9.1 Types of Inter-RAT Handover

Based on the direction of handover, inter-RAT handover is categorized into two types: interRAT handover from WCDMA to GSM and inter-RAT handover from GSM to WCDMA. Based on services, the inter-RAT handover from WCDMA to GSM and that from GSM to WCDMA are further categorized into the following types:
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Inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM Inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM Inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA Inter-RAT PS handover from GSM to WCDMA
9.2 Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM is performed to hand over the CS services of a UE from the WCDMA system to the GSM system. 9.2.1 Protocols Related to Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM complies with some 3GPP TS25 protocols. 9.2.2 Triggering Conditions of Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The signal quality of the WCDMA cell where the UE camps on is dissatisfactory or the load of the serving cell is heavy. 9.2.3 Signaling Procedure of Successful Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM This part describes the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM. For the messages related to handover failures, refer to the elementary procedures. 9.2.4 Using the RNC LMT to Trace the Procedure of Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The signaling tracing function of the RNC LMT can be used to trace the signaling of an interRAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM. 9.2.5 Elementary Procedures of Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM This part describes the elementary procedures of inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM in terms of triggering conditions and signaling procedures in normal and abnormal conditions.
9.2.1 Protocols Related to Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM complies with some 3GPP TS25 protocols. The compliance protocols are as follows:
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3GPP TS25.331 "Radio Resource Control (RRC)" 3GPP TS25.413 "UTRAN Iu interface RANAP signalling"
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3GPP TS25.433 "UTRAN Iub interface Node B Application Part (NBAP) signalling"
9.2.2 Triggering Conditions of Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

The signal quality of the WCDMA cell where the UE camps on is dissatisfactory or the load of the serving cell is heavy. In such a condition, if the signal quality of a neighboring GSM cell is satisfactory and its load is relatively light, the UE will be handed over from the WCDMA cell to the GSM cell.
9.2.3 Signaling Procedure of Successful Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

This part describes the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM. For the messages related to handover failures, refer to the elementary procedures. Figure 9-1 shows the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM. Figure 9-1 Signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM
Note the following information about the procedure shown in Figure 9-1:
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This figure presents only a brief of the signaling between the MSC server and the MSC (GSM) and that between the MSC (GSM) and the BSC (GSM). The SRNC sends a HANDOVER FROM UTRAN COMMAND message to the UE. The message contains the RAB ID, the activation time, the GSM frequency, and the GSM information in bit strings.
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9.2.4 Using the RNC LMT to Trace the Procedure of Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM
The signaling tracing function of the RNC LMT can be used to trace the signaling of an interRAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM.
Prerequisite
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The RNC LMT works properly. You have logged in to the RNC with an account authorized to perform tracing management.
Context
Table 9-1 lists the messages to be traced. Table 9-1 Messages to be traced Interfaces and Protocols to Be Traced
Message Name on the LMT
Message Name in Protocols
Uu
RRC_HO_FROM_UTRAN_C MD_GSM RRC_HO_FROM_UTRAN_F AIL NBAP_RL_DEL_REQ NBAP_RL_DEL_RSP RANAP_RELOCATION_RE QUIRED RANAP_RELOCATION_CO MMAND
HANDOVER FROM UTRAN COMMAND HANDOVER FROM UTRAN FAILURE RADIO LINK DELETION REQUEST RADIO LINK DELETION RESPONSE RELOCATION REQUIRED RELOCATION COMMAND RELOCATION PREPARATION FAILURE IU RELEASE COMMAND IU RELEASE COMPLETE
Iub
Iu
RANAP_RELOCATION_PR EPARATION_FAILURE RANAP_IU_RELEASE_CO MMAND RANAP_IU_RELEASE_CO MPLETE
Procedure
Step 1 Create a Uu tracing task by referring to Creating an RNC Tracing Task. Figure 9-2 shows an example of Uu signaling tracing result.
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Figure 9-2 Example of Uu signaling tracing result
Step 2 Create an Iub tracing task by referring to Creating an RNC Tracing Task. Figure 9-3 shows an example of Iub signaling tracing result. Figure 9-3 Example of Iub signaling tracing result
Step 3 Create an Iu tracing task by referring to Creating an RNC Tracing Task. Figure 9-4 shows an example of Iu signaling tracing result. Figure 9-4 Example of Iu signaling tracing result
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9.2.5 Elementary Procedures of Inter-RAT CS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

This part describes the elementary procedures of inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM in terms of triggering conditions and signaling procedures in normal and abnormal conditions. 9.2.5.1 Relocation Preparation Procedure The relocation preparation procedure is performed to prepare resources for relocation of the SRNS. 9.2.5.2 Iu Release Procedure The Iu release procedure is performed for the CN to release an Iu connection and all the UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) resources related only to that Iu connection. 9.2.5.3 Radio Link Deletion Procedure The radio link deletion procedure is performed to release resources in a NodeB for one or more established radio links towards a UE.
Relocation Preparation Procedure

The relocation preparation procedure is performed to prepare resources for relocation of the SRNS.
Triggering Conditions
The relocation preparation procedure can be triggered in either of the following conditions:
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During an SRNS relocation, the SRNC sends a RELOCATION REQUIRED message.

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During an inter-RAT CS handover from WCDMA to GSM, the SRNC sends a RELOCATION REQUIRED message.
Procedure
Figure 9-5 shows the relocation preparation procedure. Figure 9-5 Relocation preparation procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-5 is described as follows: 1. The SRNC sends a RELOCATION REQUIRED message to the CN. The message contains certain information such as relocation type, relocation cause, source PLMN, source LAC, source SAC, target PLMN, and target LAC. The CN interacts with the target RNC or the target network system, such as the GSM system, to prepare relevant resources. The CN sends a response message to the SRNC.
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2. 3.
If the target RNC or the target network system prepares the relevant resources successfully, the CN sends a RELOCATION COMMAND message when the preparation is complete. The message contains the L3 information IE, which carries the information about the relevant resources allocated by the target RNC or the target network system. If the resources partially or totally fail to be allocated, the CN sends a RELOCATION PREPARATION FAILURE message.
Iu Release Procedure
The Iu release procedure is performed for the CN to release an Iu connection and all the UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) resources related only to that Iu connection.
The Iu release procedure can be triggered in one of the following conditions:
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The transaction between the UE and the CN is complete. The UTRAN requests the CN to release the resources on the Iu interface by, for example, sending an IU RELEASE REQUEST message. The Serving Radio Network Subsystem (SRNS) is relocated. The SRNS relocation is canceled after a relocation resource allocation procedure is complete.
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Procedure
Figure 9-6 shows the Iu release procedure. Figure 9-6 Iu release procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-6 is described as follows: 1. The CN sends an IU RELEASE COMMAND message to the SRNC to initiate the Iu release procedure. The message indicates the cause for the release of the signaling connection.
NOTE
After sending the IU RELEASE COMMAND message, the CN shall not send further RANAP connection-oriented messages on this particular connection.
2.
The SRNC releases the related UTRAN resources and then sends an IU RELEASE COMPLETE message to the CN.
Radio Link Deletion Procedure

The radio link deletion procedure is performed to release resources in a NodeB for one or more established radio links towards a UE.
The CRNC sends a RADIO LINK DELETION REQUEST message.
Procedure
Figure 9-7 shows the radio link deletion procedure.
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Figure 9-7 Radio link deletion procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-7 is described as follows: 1. 2. The CRNC sends a RADIO LINK DELETION REQUEST message to the NodeB. Upon reception of the message, the NodeB shall delete the radio links specified by the message. The NodeB sends a response message to the CRNC.
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If all the radio links are deleted, the NodeB sends a RADIO LINK DELETION RESPONSE message. If any radio link fails to be deleted, the NodeB sends a RADIO LINK DELETION RESPONSE message. The Criticality Diagnostics field in the message indicates the failure cause.
9.3 Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA

The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA is performed to hand over the CS services of a UE from the GSM system to the WCDMA system. 9.3.1 Protocols Related to Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA complies with some 3GPP TS25 protocols. 9.3.2 Triggering Conditions of Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA The signal quality of the GSM cell where the UE camps on is dissatisfactory or the load of the serving cell is heavy. 9.3.3 Signaling Procedure of Successful Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA This part describes the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA. For the messages related to handover failures, refer to the elementary procedures. 9.3.4 Using the RNC LMT to Trace the Procedure of Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA The signaling tracing function of the RNC LMT can be used to trace the signaling of an interRAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA. 9.3.5 Elementary Procedures of Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA This part describes the elementary procedures of inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA in terms of triggering conditions and signaling procedures in normal and abnormal conditions.
9.3.1 Protocols Related to Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA

The procedure of inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA complies with some 3GPP TS25 protocols. The compliance protocols are as follows:
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3GPP TS25.331 "Radio Resource Control (RRC)" 3GPP TS25.413 "UTRAN Iu interface RANAP signalling" 3GPP TS25.433 "UTRAN Iub interface Node B Application Part (NBAP) signalling"
9.3.2 Triggering Conditions of Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA

The signal quality of the GSM cell where the UE camps on is dissatisfactory or the load of the serving cell is heavy. In such a condition, if the signal quality of a neighboring WCDMA cell is satisfactory and its load is relatively light, the UE will be handed over from the GSM cell to the WCDMA cell.
9.3.3 Signaling Procedure of Successful Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA

This part describes the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA. For the messages related to handover failures, refer to the elementary procedures. Figure 9-8 shows the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA.
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Figure 9-8 Signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA
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This figure presents only a brief of the signaling between the MSC server and the MSC (GSM) and that between the MSC (GSM) and the BSC (GSM). After receiving a RADIO LINK RESTORE INDICATION message, the RNC sends a RELOCATION DETECT message to the MSC server and informs the MSC server that the UE has been handed over from GSM to WCDMA. After the UE is handed over, it sends a HANDOVER TO UTRAN COMPLETE message to the RNC. If the handover fails, the UE reports the failure to the GSM system. After receiving a HANDOVER TO UTRAN COMPLETE message, the RNC sends a RELOCATION COMPLETE message to the MSC server. In addition, the RNC controls the UE to perform the UTRAN mobility information, UE capability enquiry, and security mode control procedures. The signaling messages traced may differ from the signaling messages shown in the figure in terms of the sequence.
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9.3.4 Using the RNC LMT to Trace the Procedure of Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA
The signaling tracing function of the RNC LMT can be used to trace the signaling of an interRAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA.
Prerequisite
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Context
RRC_HO_UTRAN_CMP RRC_UTRAN_MOBIL_INF O RRC_UTRAN_MOBIL_INF O_CONFIRM RRC_UTRAN_MOBIL_INF O_FAILURE RRC_UE_CAP_ENQUIRY Uu RRC_UE_CAP_INFO RRC_UE_CAP_INFO_CONF IRM RRC_SECURITY_MODE_C MD RRC_SECURITY_MODE_C MP RRC_SECURITY_MODE_F AIL NBAP_RL_SETUP_REQ Iub NBAP_RL_SETUP_RSP RNSAP_RL_SETUP_FAIL NBAP_RL_RESTORE_IND
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HANDOVER TO UTRAN COMPLETE UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION CONFIRM UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION FAILURE UE CAPABILITY ENQUIRY UE CAPABILITY INFORMATION UE CAPABILITY INFORMATION CONFIRM SECURITY MODE COMMAND SECURITY MODE COMPLETE SECURITY MODE FAILURE RADIO LINK SETUP REQUEST RADIO LINK SETUP RESPONSE RADIO LINK SETUP FAILURE RADIO LINK RESTORE INDICATION
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Interfaces and Protocols to Be Traced
RANAP_RELOCATION_RE Q RANAP_RELOCATION_RE Q_ACK Iu RANAP_RELOCATION_FAI LURE RANAP_RELOCATION_DE TECT RANAP_RELOCATION_CO MPLETE
RELOCATION REQUEST RELOCATION REQUEST ACKNOWLEDGE RELOCATION FAILURE RELOCATION DECTECT RELOCATION COMPLETE
Procedure
Step 1 Create a Uu tracing task by referring to Creating an RNC Tracing Task. Figure 9-9 shows an example of Uu signaling tracing result. Figure 9-9 Example of Uu signaling tracing result
Step 3 Create an Iu tracing task by referring to Creating an RNC Tracing Task. Figure 9-11 shows an example of Iu signaling tracing result.
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Figure 9-11 Example of Iu signaling tracing result
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9.3.5 Elementary Procedures of Inter-RAT CS Handover from GSM to WCDMA

This part describes the elementary procedures of inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA in terms of triggering conditions and signaling procedures in normal and abnormal conditions. 9.3.5.1 Relocation Resource Allocation Procedure The relocation resource allocation procedure is performed to allocate resources from the target RNS for an SRNS relocation. 9.3.5.2 Radio Link Setup Procedure (Intra-RNC Handover or GSM to WCDMA CS Handover) The radio link setup procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover) is performed to set up a radio link in a NodeB controlled by the SRNC for a UE. 9.3.5.3 Radio Link Restoration Procedure (Intra-RNC Handover or GSM to WCDMA CS Handover) The radio link restoration procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover) is performed for a NodeB to notify the CRNC the establishment and re-establishment of uplink synchronization of one or more radio links. 9.3.5.4 UE Capability Enquiry Procedure The UE capability enquiry procedure is performed to request a UE to transmit its capability information related to any radio access network so that the network can perform data configuration based on the UE capability. 9.3.5.5 Security Mode Control Procedure The security mode control procedure is performed to configure or reconfigure one or both of the ciphering and integrity protection algorithms for a UE. 9.3.5.6 UTRAN Mobility Information Procedure The UTRAN mobility information procedure is performed for the network to allocate a new URNTI or Cell Radio Network Temporary Identifier (C-RNTI) to a UE or to inform the UE of mobility related information such as timer values and CN domain related information.
Relocation Resource Allocation Procedure

The relocation resource allocation procedure is performed to allocate resources from the target RNS for an SRNS relocation.
The relocation resource allocation procedure can be triggered in either of the following conditions:
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During an SRNS relocation, the CN applies for resources from the target RNC.
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During an inter-RAT CS handover from GSM to WCDMA, the CN applies for resources from the target RNC.
Procedure
Figure 9-12 shows the relocation resource allocation procedure. Figure 9-12 Relocation resource allocation procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-12 is described as follows: 1. The CN sends a RELOCATION REQUEST message to the target RNC. The message contains certain information, such as the IMSI of the UE, CN domain indicator, target cell identifier, encryption, integrity protection, Iu signaling connection ID, handover cause, and RAB parameters. The target RNC allocates radio resources for the relocation. The target RNC sends a response message to the CN.
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2. 3.
If the resources are allocated, the target RNC sends a RELOCATION REQUEST ACKNOWLEDGE message. The message contains the radio resources and other parameters allocated to the UE. The parameters include the UTRAN Radio Network Temporary Identifier (U-RNTI), RAB, transport layer and physical layer information, chosen encryption algorithm, and chosen integrity protection algorithm. If the resources partially or totally fail to be allocated or the target RNC rejects the SRNS relocation for some reason, the target RNC sends a RELOCATION FAILURE message, indicating the failure cause.
Radio Link Setup Procedure (Intra-RNC Handover or GSM to WCDMA CS Handover)

The radio link setup procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover) is performed to set up a radio link in a NodeB controlled by the SRNC for a UE.
The CRNC sends a RADIO LINK SETUP REQUEST message.
Procedure
Figure 9-13 shows the radio link setup procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover). Figure 9-13 Radio link setup procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover)
The procedure shown in Figure 9-13 is described as follows: 1. The CRNC sends a RADIO LINK SETUP REQUEST message to the NodeB. Upon reception of the message, the NodeB shall reserve the necessary resources and configure the new radio link according to the parameters given in the message. The NodeB sends a response message to the CRNC.
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2.
If the radio link is set up, the NodeB saves the value of the Configuration Generation ID IE contained in the RADIO LINK SETUP REQUEST message and sends a RADIO LINK SETUP RESPONSE message. If the radio link fails to be set up, the NodeB sends a RADIO LINK SETUP FAILURE message. The message contains the failure cause in the Cause IE.
Radio Link Restoration Procedure (Intra-RNC Handover or GSM to WCDMA CS Handover)

The radio link restoration procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover) is performed for a NodeB to notify the CRNC the establishment and re-establishment of uplink synchronization of one or more radio links.
The NodeB receives the UL signal from the UE, that is, the NodeB finishes UL synchronization with the UE.
Procedure
Figure 9-14 shows the radio link restoration procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover). Figure 9-14 Radio link restoration procedure (intra-RNC handover or GSM to WCDMA CS handover)
After performing UL synchronization with the UE, the NodeB sends a RADIO LINK RESTORE INDICATION message to the CRNC.
UE Capability Enquiry Procedure

The UE capability enquiry procedure is performed to request a UE to transmit its capability information related to any radio access network so that the network can perform data configuration based on the UE capability.
The UTRAN sends a UE CAPABILITY ENQUIRY message to acquire the UE capability information related to any radio access network.
Procedure
Figure 9-15 shows the UE capability enquiry procedure. Figure 9-15 UE capability enquiry procedure
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The procedure shown in Figure 9-15 is described as follows: 1. 2. The SRNC sends a UE CAPABILITY ENQUIRY message to the UE through the downlink DCCH using AM RLC. The UE sends a UE CAPABILITY INFORMATION message to the SRNC through the uplink DCCH using AM or UM RLC. The message contains the information about UE capabilities. The SRNC reads the UE capability information and then sends a UE CAPABILITY INFORMA CONFIRM message to the UE through the downlink DCCH using AM or UM RLC.
3.
Security Mode Control Procedure

The security mode control procedure is performed to configure or reconfigure one or both of the ciphering and integrity protection algorithms for a UE.
The ciphering or integrity protection algorithm has changed.
Procedure
Figure 9-16 shows the security mode control procedure. Figure 9-16 Security mode control procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-16 is described as follows: 1. Through a SECURITY MODE COMMAND message to the UE, the SRNC starts or reconfigures one or both of the ciphering and integrity protection configurations for the RBs or one CN domain and for all Signaling Radio Bearers (SRBs). The UE sends a response message to the SRNC.
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2.
If the UE completes configuring or reconfiguring the relevant parameters for one or both of the ciphering and integrity protection algorithms, the UE sends a SECURITY MODE COMPLETE message to inform the SRNC of the completion. If the SECURITY MODE COMMAND message contains neither Ciphering mode info IE nor Integrity protection mode info IE or if each of the two IEs has inconsistent
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information, the UE sends a SECURITY MODE FAILURE message, indicating the failure of the security mode control procedure as well as the failure cause.
UTRAN Mobility Information Procedure

The UTRAN mobility information procedure is performed for the network to allocate a new URNTI or Cell Radio Network Temporary Identifier (C-RNTI) to a UE or to inform the UE of mobility related information such as timer values and CN domain related information.
The SRNC sends a UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION message to the UE.
Procedure
Figure 9-17 shows the UTRAN mobility information procedure. Figure 9-17 UTRAN mobility information procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-17 is described as follows: 1. 2. 3. The SRNC sends a UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION message to the UE. The UE starts to update the related fields according to the values of the IEs carried in the message. The UE sends a response message to the SRNC.
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If the UE succeeds in conducting the operations specified by the UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION message, the UE sends a UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION CONFIRM message. If the UE fails to conduct the operations specified by the UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION message, the UE sends a UTRAN MOBILITY INFORMATION FAILURE message, indicating the failure cause.
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9.4 Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

The procedure of inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM is performed to hand over the PS services of a UE from the WCDMA system to the GSM system. 9.4.1 Protocols Related to Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The procedure of inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM complies with some 3GPP TS25 protocols. 9.4.2 Triggering Conditions of Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The signal quality of the WCDMA cell where the UE camps on is dissatisfactory or the load of the serving cell is heavy. 9.4.3 Signaling Procedure of Successful Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM This part describes the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM. For the messages related to handover failures, refer to the elementary procedures. 9.4.4 Using the RNC LMT to Trace the Procedure of Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM The signaling tracing function of the RNC LMT can be used to trace the signaling of an interRAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM. 9.4.5 Elementary Procedures of Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM This part describes the elementary procedures of inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM in terms of triggering conditions and signaling procedures in normal and abnormal conditions.
9.4.1 Protocols Related to Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

The procedure of inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM complies with some 3GPP TS25 protocols. The compliance protocols are as follows:
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3GPP TS25.331 "Radio Resource Control (RRC)" 3GPP TS25.413 "UTRAN Iu interface RANAP signalling" 3GPP TS25.433 "UTRAN Iub interface Node B Application Part (NBAP) signalling"
9.4.2 Triggering Conditions of Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

The signal quality of the WCDMA cell where the UE camps on is dissatisfactory or the load of the serving cell is heavy.
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When the UE is in CELL_PCH, URA_PCH, or CELL_FACH state, it initiates cell reselection to perform a handover to GSM. When the UE is in CELL_DCH state, the UTRAN sends a CELL CHANGE ORDER message to the UE to perform a handover to GSM.
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9.4.3 Signaling Procedure of Successful Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

This part describes the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM. For the messages related to handover failures, refer to the elementary procedures. Figure 9-18 shows the signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM. Figure 9-18 Signaling procedure of a successful inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM
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When there is a low PS data volume, the UE may be in CELL_PCH, URA_PCH, or URA_FACH states. Based on the parameters in the system information, the UE can initiate cell reselection to perform a handover to GSM. The network does not initiate any cell reselection. The NodeB sends a RADIO LINK FAILURE INDICATION message, because the UE shuts down transmission towards the WCDMA cell after cell reselection to a GSM cell. The procedure of inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM does not require such a message. After the UE accesses a GSM cell, the SGSN directly sends an IU RELEASE COMMAND message to the SRNC, if the Packet Data Protocol (PDP) context does not need to be transferred.
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9.4.4 Using the RNC LMT to Trace the Procedure of Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM
The signaling tracing function of the RNC LMT can be used to trace the signaling of an interRAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM.
Prerequisite
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Context
Uu
RRC_CELL_CHANGE_ORD ER_FROM_UTRAN RRC_CELL_CHANGE_ORD ER_FROM_UTRAN_FAIL NBAP_RL_FAIL_IND
CELL CHANGE ORDER FROM UTRAN CELL CHANGE ORDER FROM UTRAN FAILURE RADIO LINK FAILURE INDICATION RADIO LINK DELETION REQUEST RADIO LINK DELETION RESPONSE SRNS CONTEXT REQUEST SRNS CONTEXT RESPONSE SRNS DATA FORWARD COMMAND IU RELEASE COMMAND IU RELEASE COMPLETE
Iub
NBAP_RL_DEL_REQ NBAP_RL_DEL_RSP RANAP_SRNS_CONTEXT_ REQ RANAP_SRNS_CONTEXT_ RESP
Iu
RANAP_SRNS_DATA_FOR WARD_COMMAND RANAP_IU_RELEASE_CO MMAND RANAP_IU_RELEASE_CO MPLETE
Procedure
Step 1 Create a Uu tracing task by referring to Creating an RNC Tracing Task. Figure 9-19 shows an example of Uu signaling tracing result.
Figure 9-19 Example of Uu signaling tracing result
Step 3 Create an Iu tracing task by referring to Creating an RNC Tracing Task. Figure 9-21 shows an example of Iu signaling tracing result. Figure 9-21 Example of Iu signaling tracing result
----End
9.4.5 Elementary Procedures of Inter-RAT PS Handover from WCDMA to GSM

This part describes the elementary procedures of inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM in terms of triggering conditions and signaling procedures in normal and abnormal conditions. 9.4.5.1 Cell Change Order from UTRAN Procedure The cell change order from UTRAN procedure is performed to hand over, under the control of the network, a UE in CELL_DCH state to a GSM cell when the RABs established in the WCDMA system are only from the PS domain. 9.4.5.2 SRNS Context Transfer Procedure The SRNS context transfer procedure is performed to transfer SRNS contexts from the source RNC to the SGSN. 9.4.5.3 Iu Release Procedure The Iu release procedure is performed for the CN to release an Iu connection and all the UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) resources related only to that Iu connection. 9.4.5.4 Radio Link Deletion Procedure The radio link deletion procedure is performed to release resources in a NodeB for one or more established radio links towards a UE.
Cell Change Order from UTRAN Procedure

The cell change order from UTRAN procedure is performed to hand over, under the control of the network, a UE in CELL_DCH state to a GSM cell when the RABs established in the WCDMA system are only from the PS domain.
The network decides to hand over the UE to the GSM system.
Procedure
Figure 9-22 shows the cell change order from UTRAN procedure. Figure 9-22 Cell change order from UTRAN procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-22 is described as follows: 1. Through a CELL CHANGE ORDER FROM UTRAN message, the SRNC orders the UE to perform a cell change to the GSM system. The message contains certain IEs about the target cell. The IEs include BSIC, Band indicator, BCCH ARFCN, and NC mode. Upon reception of the CELL CHANGE ORDER FROM UTRAN message, the UE starts timer T309 and initiates access to the GSM cell.
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2.
If the UE accesses the GSM cell before the timer expires, the procedure ends. If the UE fails to access the GSM cell before the timer expires, the UE sends a CELL CHANGE ORDER FROM UTRAN FAILURE message to the SRNC.
SRNS Context Transfer Procedure

The SRNS context transfer procedure is performed to transfer SRNS contexts from the source RNC to the SGSN.
During the inter-RAT PS handover from WCDMA to GSM, the 2G equipment needs to get the PDP contexts of the UE from the 3G equipment.
Procedure
Figure 9-23 shows the SRNS context transfer procedure.
Figure 9-23 SRNS context transfer procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-23 is described as follows: 1. 2. The SGSN sends an SRNS CONTEXT REQUEST message to the SRNC. The message includes the list of RABs whose contexts should be transferred. The SRNC sends an SRNS CONTEXT RESPONSE message to the SGSN.
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If the transfer is successful, the message contains RAB IDs that include the sequence numbers for the downlink and uplink GTP PDUs and PDCP SDUs. If the SRNC fails to identify the ID of the RAB whose context should be transferred to the SGSN, the SRNS CONTEXT RESPONSE message contains a Cause IE whose value is Invalid RAB ID.
Iu Release Procedure
The Iu release procedure is performed for the CN to release an Iu connection and all the UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) resources related only to that Iu connection.
The Iu release procedure can be triggered in one of the following conditions:
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The transaction between the UE and the CN is complete. The UTRAN requests the CN to release the resources on the Iu interface by, for example, sending an IU RELEASE REQUEST message. The Serving Radio Network Subsystem (SRNS) is relocated. The SRNS relocation is canceled after a relocation resource allocation procedure is complete.
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Procedure
Figure 9-24 shows the Iu release procedure.
Figure 9-24 Iu release procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-24 is described as follows: 1. The CN sends an IU RELEASE COMMAND message to the SRNC to initiate the Iu release procedure. The message indicates the cause for the release of the signaling connection.
NOTE
After sending the IU RELEASE COMMAND message, the CN shall not send further RANAP connection-oriented messages on this particular connection.
2.
The SRNC releases the related UTRAN resources and then sends an IU RELEASE COMPLETE message to the CN.
Radio Link Deletion Procedure

The radio link deletion procedure is performed to release resources in a NodeB for one or more established radio links towards a UE.
The CRNC sends a RADIO LINK DELETION REQUEST message.
Procedure
Figure 9-25 shows the radio link deletion procedure.
Issue 01 (2007-04-20)
9-25
Figure 9-25 Radio link deletion procedure
The procedure shown in Figure 9-25 is described as follows: 1. 2. The CRNC sends a RADIO LINK DELETION REQUEST message to the NodeB. Upon reception of the message, the NodeB shall delete the radio links specified by the message. The NodeB sends a response message to the CRNC.
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If all the radio links are deleted, the NodeB sends a RADIO LINK DELETION RESPONSE message. If any radio link fails to be deleted, the NodeB sends a RADIO LINK DELETION RESPONSE message. The Criticality Diagnostics field in the message indicates the failure cause.
9.5 Inter-RAT PS Handover from GSM to WCDMA

The procedure of inter-RAT PS handover from GSM to WCDMA is performed through cell reselection to WCDMA initiated by the UE. For details, refer to 4 Location Update Procedure
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Inter-RAT Handover Procedure: About This Chapter

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RAN Signaling Analysis Guide

9 Inter-RAT Handover Procedure