GSM, GPRS and EDGE Performance: Evolution Towards 3G/UMTS

The introduction of GERAN (GSM EDGE Radio Access Network) will enable the existing GSM and IS-136 Radio Access Networks, based on digital 2nd Generation TDMA technologies, to evolve towards real 3rd Generation Radio Access Networks in terms of radio spectral efficiency, peak data throughput and support for 3rd Generation services.
At present there is a distinct lack of comprehensive books covering GPRS and EDGE and hence the authors aim to provide a comprehensive handbook which discusses the latest performance results of both. Operators will be implementing other performance solutions, such as Adaptive Multi Rate and Dynamic Channel Allocation, in the near future and as yet there aren't any guidelines available. GSM, GPRS and EDGE Performance successfully fills both of these gaps.
* Explains the key parts of both ETSI GSM and 3GPP/GERAN standards
* Introduces 3GPP ALL IP architecture for future GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication)
* Examines the coverage and capacity of GSM/EDGE and AMR (Adaptive Multi Rate)
* Introduces a totally new approach for Radio Access Network automated optimisation
* Discusses positioning of GERAN and UTRAN (UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network)
* Highlights 3GPP Release 4 and Release 5 architecture and also illustrates ideas for future All IP architectures

GSM, GPRS and EDGE Performance provides a complete overview of the entire GSM system. It features comprehensive descriptions of GSM's main evolutionary milestones - GPRS, AMR and EDGE and such developments have now positioned GERAN (GS/EDGE Radio Access Network) as a full 3G radio standard. For the first time in one volume, the radio network performance and capabilities of GSM, GPRS, AMR and EDGE solutions are studied in-depth by using revealing simulations and field trials.

Cellular operators must now roll out new 3G technologies capable of delivering wireless Internet based multimedia services in a competitive and cost-effective way and this volume, divided into three parts, helps to explain how:

1. Provides an introduction to the complete evolution of GSM towards a radio access network that efficiently supports UMTS services (GERAN). Both the functionality and architecture are explained and the integration of GERAN within the UMTS Qos concept for 3G networks is presented.

2. Features a comprehensive study of system performance with simulations and field trials. Covers all the major features such as basic GSM, GPRS, EDGE and AMR and the full capability of the GERAN radio interface for 3G service support is envisaged. Also introduces an innovative approach for Radio Access Network automated planning and parameter optimisation tasks, together wth an in-depth analysis of automated trouble shooting.

3. Discusses different 3G radio technologies and the position of GERAN within such technologies. Also includes the potential evolution paths and descriptions of the 3G Multi-Radio Radio Access Network concept, based on the seamless integrationof GSM and WCDMA radio technologies.

Written by leading experts in the field, and endorsed with forewords from Mike Bamburak, Vice President, technology, Architecture & Standards, AT&T and Chris Pearson, Executive Vice President, 3G Americas, this performance-oriented and practical approach to the GSM system and its evolution will have far-reaching appeal to Engineering Professionals and Research & Development Engineers. It will also be an instant hit with technicla staff and Management working for cellular operators.