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Site
VELIZY

MOBILE COMMUNICATION DIVISION

GPRS telecom
presentation

Originator(s)
Jardel JP
Domain
Division
Rubric
Type
Distribution Codes

:
:
:
:

Alcatel 900/BSS
Product Definition
SYS-TLA
System Functional Blocks
Internal :

External :

PREDISTRIBUTION:
L. Cruchant
JY Amaudrut
S. Baudet

MCD/TD Vlizy:

PJ Pietri
M. Wu
JC Barthelemy
R Bialobroda
C. Charmont
B. De-Jaeger
M. Delprat
T. Donzel
J. Guinand

S. Bourdeaut
E. Desorbay
P. Dupuy
B. Landais

D. Isidoro
JP Humeau
F. Huet
R Le Hegarat
G. Linden
S. Pega
C. Ramond

BDC doc manager

BTS-HW doc manager
NMA doc manager

MCD/TD Kontich:
MCD/TD Kaisemer:
MCD/TD Zuffenhausen:
MCD/TD Berlin:
PREDISTRIBUTION: DOC. CENTRES
MCD VELIZY
B. Marliac

MCD STUTTGART
I. Lentzsch

MCD ANTWERP
L. Van Eyck

ABSTRACT
This document is a presentation of GPRS telecom layers, in B6.2.

Approvals
Name

D.Berthoumieux
SM

R. Gdecker
BTS SSAM

R. Bialobroda
MFS SSAM

App.
Name

L. Dierick
BSC SSAM

App.

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REVIEW
Ed. 01 Proposal 02
Ed 02 Proposal 01

21-12-98
30-09-99

TD/SYT/JPJ/81243/Ed.1
TD/SYT/JPJ/90531/Ed.1

HISTORY
Ed. 01 Proposal 01
Ed. 01 ip02

06-07-98
21-08-98

Ed. 01 released

02-02-99

Ed. 02 Proposal 01
Ed. 02 released

10-06-99
30-09-99

first draft
- remarks of last working meeting
- O&M interfaces have been detailed
- RRM and BSCGP specification evolutions, taken into
account
- NS-VC management function description
document updated according to review remarks
(TD/SYT/JPJ/81243/Ed.1)
miscellaneous updates

INTERNAL REFERENCED DOCUMENTS

Not applicable

FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY

Not applicable
END OF DOCUMENT

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
HISTORY ......................................................................................................................................... 2
REFERENCED DOCUMENTS ......................................................................................................... 2
RELATED DOCUMENTS ................................................................................................................. 2
PREFACE ........................................................................................................................................ 2

1. SCOPE

2. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO GPRS

2.1 Introduction

2.2 General architecture

2.3 GPRS interfaces

2.4 Protocol layers

2.4.1 Transmission plane
2.4.2 Signalling plane

10
10
11

3. GPRS NETWORK OPERATION

12

3.1 Definitions
3.1.1 GPRS Mobile station classes
3.1.2 IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity)
3.1.3 P-TMSI (Packet Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity)
3.1.4 TLLI (Temporary Logical Link Identity)
3.1.5 Location Area Identity (LAI)
3.1.6 Routeing Area Identity (RAI)

12
12
12
12
12
12
13

3.2 Session management

3.2.1 Attach/Detach procedures
3.2.2 PDP context

13
13
14

3.3 Mobility Management

3.3.1 MM states
3.3.2 Location Management Function

15
15
15

3.4 Interactions between SGSN and MSC/VLR

3.4.1 Paging coordination
3.4.2 Paging for GPRS downlink transfer
3.4.3 Paging for CS connection establishment

16
16
19
19

4. ALCATEL ARCHITECTURE

20

4.1 BSS architecture

4.1.1 PCU Concept

20
20
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4.1.2 ALCATEL implementation

4.1.3 Transmission plane
4.1.4 Control plane
4.1.5 Physical interfaces

22
23
24
26

4.2 GPRS global architecture

31

5. GPRS RADIO INTERFACE

32

5.1 Interfaces description

32

5.2 Um interface
5.2.1 GSM-RF layer
5.2.2 packet data logical channels
5.2.3 Channel coding
5.2.4 Cell re-selection
5.2.5 Timing advance
5.2.6 Power control
5.2.7 Discontinuous reception (DRX)
5.2.8 System information broadcasting

33
33
34
38
39
39
42
43
44

5.3 BSCGP layer

5.3.1 BSCGP layer functions
5.3.2 Radio resource management

45
45
46

5.4 GCH layer

48

5.5 RRM/RLC/MAC Layers

5.5.1 Definitions
5.5.2 RRM functions
5.5.3 RLC functions
5.5.4 MAC functions

49
49
52
64
65

6. GB INTERFACE

68

6.1 Protocol layers

6.1.1 Link layer
6.1.2 Network Service layer
6.1.3 BSSGP layer

68
68
68
69

6.2 Addressing
6.2.1 Permanent Virtual Channel (PVC)
6.2.2 Bearer Channel (BC)
6.2.3 Network Service Virtual Connection (NS-VC)
6.2.4 Network Service Entity (NSE)
6.2.5 BSSGP Virtual Connection (BVC)

69
69
69
69
70
70

6.3 NS functionalities
6.3.1 Load sharing function
6.3.2 NS-VC management function

73
73
76

6.4 BSS GPRS Protocol (BSSGP) functionalities

6.4.1 Data transfer procedures between RL and BSSGP SAPs
6.4.2 Signalling procedures between GMM SAPs
6.4.3 Signalling procedures between NM SAPs

78
79
80
81
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7. O&M INTERFACE

84

7.1 Interface modelisation

84

7.2 Managed entities, in the MFS

7.2.1 GSL entity
7.2.2 BSS entity
7.2.3 Gic group entity
7.2.4 Cell entity
7.2.5 BVC-PTP entity
7.2.6 BVC-SIG entity
7.2.7 NSVC entity
7.2.8 PVC entity
7.2.9 BC entity

85
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95

7.3 Telecom layer initilisation

96

7.4 Performance management

7.4.1 Counters creation
7.4.2 Counters deletion
7.4.3 Counter periodical retrieval
7.4.4 Threshold handling
7.4.5 Tide-mark handling

96
97
98
98
98
98

8. GPRS SCENARIOS

99

8.1 Paging for downlink packet transfer

8.1.1 PCCCH utilization
8.1.2 CCCH utilization

99
100
101

8.2 Packet data transfer

8.2.1 Definitions
8.2.2 Packet data downlink transfer
8.2.3 Packet data uplink transfer

102
102
103
112

8.3 Autonomous cell reselection

119

8.4 Cell reselection during an UL transfer

120

8.5 Cell reselection during a DL transfer

121

9. TELECOM FUNCTIONAL BLOCKS

122

10. GLOSSARY

123

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02
01
ED

30-09-99
02-02-99
DATE

CHANGE NOTE

MCD/TD
MCD/TD
APPRAISAL AUTHORITY

MCD/TD/SYT
MCD/TD/SYT
ORIGINATOR

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HISTORY
Ed. 01 released

02-02-99

Ed. 02 released

30-09-99

document updated according to review remarks

(TD/SYT/JPJ/81243/Ed.1)
miscellaneous updates

REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
[5]

GSM 03.60
GSM 03.64
GSM 04.60
GSM 08.16
GSM 08.18

GPRS service description

GPRS overall description of the GPRS radio interface
GPRS MS-BSS interface, RLC/MAC protocol
GPRS BSS-SGSN interface, Network Service
GPRS BSS-SGSN interface, BSSGP protocol

RELATED DOCUMENTS
[6]
[7]
[8]
[9]
[10]
[11]
[12]
[13]
[14]
[15]
[16]
[17]
[18]
[19]
[20]

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TD/SAS/OBE/80685.98

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GPRS Gb interface - BSSGP layer

GPRS Gb interfcae - Network Service Control Sub-layer
GPRS Gb interface - Sub-Network Service Sub-layer
GPRS MFS-BSC interface - BSCGP layer
GPRS MFS-BSC interface - GSL stack
GPRS MFS-BTS interface - GCH stack
GPRS radio interface - MAC sub-layer
GPRS radio interface - RLC sub-layer
GPRS radio interface - RRM sub-layer
GPRS radio interface - physical link layer
Transmission functional specification
Transmission Architecture
MFS/GPU Dimensioning
TFD Multi-BSS Fast packet Server
TFD General Packet Radio Service

PREFACE

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1. SCOPE
This document is a presentation of GPRS telecom layers, in B6.2.
The aim of this document is to introduce telecom layer specifications ([6] to [15]), to give to the
reader a general overview.
Therefore, protocols which are described in this document do not deal with all the cases.
Furthermore, in the case of ambiguities between this document and a specific layer
specification, the specific layer specification takes precedence.
This document is structured in the following way:
- chapter 2 is an introduction to GPRS.
- chapter 3 presents GPRS network operations (Mobility Management functions, paging,
packet routing and transfer functions)
- chapter 4 deals with GPRS Alcatel architecture and describes the consequences of this
architecture on telecom layers.
- chapter 5 describes specific functions related to MS-network interface
- chapter 6 describes specific functions related to Gb interface
- chapter 7 describes O&M interface, telecom entity and performance management.
- chapter 8 describes some GPRS overall scenario
- chapter 9 presents telecom functional blocks which are used in telecom layer specifications
- chapter 10 is the glossary

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2. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO GPRS

(see [1])

2.1 Introduction
In many software applications (e.g. web server consultation), data traffic is bursty (i.e. a session may
last several minutes, whereas data is only transmitted during a few seconds).
Data transmission in circuit-switched mode has the drawback to allocate resources during the whole
session, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) defines a network architecture dedicated to packet
transfer mode, with radio access, which allows service subscriber to send and receive data in an
end-to-end packet transfer mode, without utilizing network resource in circuit-switched mode.
A GPRS network can be linked to different fixed data networks (e.g. IP, X25).
GPRS uses the BSS architecture, but defines a fixed network (GPRS backbone) which is different
from the NSS, and which links the BSS to PDNs (Packet Data Networks).
The BSS is used for both circuit-switched and GPRS services.
The BSS has 2 clients:
- the MSC, for circuit-switched services (A interface)
- the GPRS backbone network, for GPRS (Gb interface)

PSTN

MSC/VLR

BSS

Gi

Gb

GPRS
Backbone

PDN
e.g. X25
PDN
e.g. IP

Gi

Figure 1 GPRS, general architecture

New GPRS radio channels are defined, and the allocation of these channels is flexible, from 1 to 8
radio interface timeslots can be allocated per TDMA frame, timeslots are shared by the active users,
and up and downlink are allocated separately.
The radio interface resources can be shared statically or dynamically between CS and PS traffics as
a function of service load or operator preference.

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2.2 General architecture

GPRS backbone is an IP network and is composed of routers:
- Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN), at the same hierarchical level as the MSC, which is
linked to several BSSs. It keeps track of the individual MSs location and performs security functions
and access control.
- Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN), which is linked to one or several data networks,
provides interworking with external packet-switched networks and is connected with SGSNs via an
IP-based GPRS backbone network.
PLMN

BSS

GGSN
SGSN

PDN

IP-based GPRS
backbone

BSS
GGSN

PDN

SGSN

GGSN

other PLMN

Figure 2 GPRS backbone architecture

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2.3 GPRS interfaces

The following figure shows new interfaces which have been introduced for GPRS needs.
MSC/
VLR

HLR
Gr

Gs

BSS

Gc

SGSN

GGSN

Gb

Gn
Gp
SGSN

PDN
Gi

Gf

SGSN

other PLMN

signalling and data interface

signalling interface

Figure 3 GPRS interfaces

- Gr:

SGSN-HLR interface
MAP (Mobile Application Part), TCAP, SCCP, MTP3/2
(update/cancel location)

- Gs:

MSC/VLR-SGSN interface
BSSAP+ (Base Station System Application Part +), SCCP, MTP3/2
(attach, update location, circuit paging)

- Gf:

SGSN-EIR interface
MAP (Mobile Application Part), TCAP, SCCP, MTP3/2

- Ge:

GGSN-HLR interface
MAP (Mobile Application Part), TCAP, SCCP, MTP3/2

- Gn:

SGSN-GGSN interface
GTP, UDP, IP
(PDP context creation/deletion/modification, route monitoring)

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2.4 Protocol layers

2.4.1 Transmission plane

The transmission plane consists of a layered protocol structure providing user information transfer,
along with associated information transfer control procedures (e.g. flow control, error detection and
recovery,..)
application
IP/X25

IP/X25
relay
SNDCP
LLC

LLC
RLC

MAC

MAC

GSM-RF

GSM-RF

NS

L2

L1bis

L1bis

L1

Gb

UDP/
TCP

IP

NS

BSS

Um

BSSGP

BSSGP

GTP

UDP/
TCP

relay

RLC

MS

GTP

SNDCP

IP
L2
L1

SGSN

Gn

GGSN

Figure 4 GPRS transmission plane

- GTP (GPRS Tunnelling protocol):
This protocol tunnels user data and signalling between GPRS support nodes, in the GPRS
backbone network.
- TCP (Transmission Control Protocol):
It carries GTP PDUs in the GPRS backbone network for protocols that need a reliable data
link (e.g. X25)
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol):
It carries GTP PDUs in the GPRS backbone network for protocols that do not need a reliable
data link (e.g. IP)
- IP (Internet Protocol):
This is the GPRS backbone network used for routeing user data and control signalling.
- SNDCP (SubNetwork Dependent Convergence Protocol):
It maps network-level characteristics onto the characteristics of the underlying network.
- LLC (Logical Link Control):
This layer provides a highly reliable ciphered logical link which is independent of the
underlying radio interface protocols.
- BSS-relay:
This function relays LLC PDUs between the Um and Gb interfaces.
- SGSN-relay:
This function relays PDP PDUs between the Gb and Gn interfaces.
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- BSSGP (Base Station System GPRS Protocol):

This layer conveys routeing and QoS related information between BSS and SGSN.
- NS (Network Service):
It transports BSSGP PDUs and is based on frame relay connection between BSS and SGSN.
- RLC/MAC (Radio Link Control/ Medium Access Control):
RLC provides a radio-solution-dependent reliable link and MAC controls the access signalling
procedures for radio channel, and the mapping of RLC frames onto the GSM physical channel.
- GSM-RF layer
It is the radio subsystem which supports a certain number of logical channels

2.4.2 Signalling plane

The signalling plane consists of protocols for control and support of the transmission plane functions:
- controlling the GPRS network access connections such as attaching to and detaching from
the GPRS network
- controlling the attributes of an established network access connection, such as activation of
a PDP address
- controlling the routing path of an established network connection in order to support user
mobility
- controlling the assignment of network resources to meet changing user demands
- and providing supplementary services

relay
GMM/SM

GMM/SM
LLC

LLC
relay

RLC

RLC

MAC

MAC

GSM-RF

MS

GSM-RF

BSS

Um

BSSGP

BSSGP

GTP
UDP

UDP

IP

IP

NS

NS

L2

L1bis

L1bis

L1

Gb

GTP

SGSN

L2
L1
Gn

GGSN

Figure 5 GPRS signalling plane

- GMM/SM (GPRS Mobility Management/ Session Management)
This protocol supports mobility management functionality such as GPRS attach, GPRS
detach, security, routing area update, PDP context (de)activation.
- GTP (GPRS Tunneling Protocol)
This protocol tunnels user and signalling messages between SGSNs and GGSNs and
between SGSNs, in the GPRS backbone network.
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
This protocol transfers signallling messages between GSNs.

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3. GPRS NETWORK OPERATION

3.1 Definitions

3.1.1 GPRS Mobile station classes

Three MS class modes are defined:
- class A:
supports simultaneously GPRS and circuit switched services
- class B:
supports simultaneous attach, but not simultaneous traffic
- class C:
supports only non-simultaneous attach.

3.1.2 IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity)

An IMSI is allocated to each mobile subscriber in GSM. This is also the case for GPRS-only mobile
subscribers.

3.1.3 P-TMSI (Packet Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity)

A P-TMSI is allocated to each GPRS-attached MS.
It has only a local significance: defined per routing area (i.e. within a SGSN)
It is used in the GMM sub-layer for identification of an MS.

3.1.4 TLLI (Temporary Logical Link Identity)

Between the MS and the SGSN, TLLI unambiguously identifies the logical link.
It is used for addressing purposes at the RR sub-layer.
Within a routing area, there is a one-to-one correspondence between TLLI and IMSI that is only
known in the MS and SGSN.
TLLI is derived from a P-TMSI and does then provide user identity confidentiality.
There are 4 types of TLLIs:
- Local TLLI: derived from the P-TMSI allocated by the SGSN and only valid in the RA
associated to the P-TMSI
- Foreign TLLI: derived from a P-TMSI allocated in another RA
- Random TLLI: selected randomly by the MS, when the MS has no valid P-TMSI
- Auxiliary TLLI:
used for an anonymous access

3.1.5 Location Area Identity (LAI)

In GSM, a LAI identifies one or several cells.
The MS is paged in the LA where the MS is located when a terminating call arrives in the MSC.
A LA is served by only one VLR.

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3.1.6 Routeing Area Identity (RAI)

For GPRS, as paging is more frequent than in GSM, Routeing Areas (RA) have been defined, which
are smaller than LAs.
A RAI identifies one or several cells.
The location of an MS in STANDBY state ( see 3.3.1) is known in the SGSN on a RA level. This
means that the MS is paged in the RA where the MS is located when mobile-terminated traffic
arrives in the SGSN.
A RA is a sub-set of one, and only one, Location Area (LA). A RA is served by only one SGSN.

3.2 Session management

3.2.1 Attach/Detach procedures

In order to access the GPRS services, an MS shall first make its presence known to the network, by
performing a GPRS-attach to the SGSN.
This operation establishes a logical link between the MS and the SGSN, and makes the MS available
for paging via SGSN and notification of incoming GPRS data.
3.2.1.1 Attach procedure
In the attach procedure the MS provides its identity and an indication of the type of attach (GPRSattach or combined GPRS/IMSI attach).
The identity provided to the network is
- either the P-TMSI (if the MS has a valid P-TMSI)
- or the IMSI
At the RLC/MAC layer, the MS identifies itself with a TLLI (a Foreign TLLI if a P-TMSI is available or
a Random TLLI if valid P-TMSI is not available).
The Foreign or Random TLLI is used as an identifier during the attach procedure until a new P-TMSI
is allocated.
GPRS attach function is similar to IMSI attach
- MS authentication
- ciphering key generation
- TLLI allocation (derived from the new P-TMSI)
- subscriber profile request to the HLR
After having executed the GPRS attach,
- the MS is in STANDBY state and may activate PDP contexts
- MS location is tracked (RA accuracy)
- communication between MS and SGSN is secured
- charging information is collected
- HLR knows MS location in accuracy of the SGSN
3.2.1.2 Detach procedure
The detach function allows an MS to inform the network that it wants to make a GPRS and/or IMSI
detach and the network to inform an MS that it has been GPRS-detached or IMSI-detached by the
network.

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3.2.2 PDP context

A PTP (Point-To-Point) GPRS subscription contains the subscription of one or more PDP (Packet
Data Protocol) addresses.
Each PDP address is described by an individual PDP context in the MS, the SGSN and the GGSN.
The PDP state indicates whether the PDP address is activated for data transfer or not.
- inactivate:
no routing information
- activate:
contains mapping and routing information for transferring PDUs, between MS
and GGSN.
The PDP context is updated according to changed subscriber location initiated by MM procedures.
In order to send and receive GPRS data, the MS shall activate the PDP address that it wants to use.
This operation makes the MS known in the corresponding GGSN, and interworking with external data
networks can begin.
User data is transferred transparently between the MS and the external data networks (encapsulation
and tunnelling)
3.2.2.1 Activation procedure
MS

SGSN

GGSN

Activate PDP context request (1)

(2)
Create PDP context request (3)
Activate PDP context accept (6)

Create PDP context response (5)

(4)

Figure 6 PDP context activation procedure

- (1):
- (2):
- (3):
- (4):
- (5):
- (6):

MS sends activation request to SGSN

SGSN verifies the subscription information of MS
SGSN informs GGSN about new PDP type and address
GGSN creates a context and
GGSN acknowledges the SGSN
SGSN acknowledges the MS

When a PDP context is activated

- SGSN has a logical bidirectional tunnel between the MS and the GGSN
- GGSN has a PDP address activated and mapped to the MS
- Location of the MS is known in accuracy of SGSN
- Mobile originating and Mobile terminating data transmission is
now possible
3.2.2.2 Deactivation procedure
PDP context deactivation can be initiated either by the MS or by the SGSN, or by the GGSN.

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3.3 Mobility Management

Mobility Management (MM) is handled in a specific way through GPRS network.
To be known from GPRS network and to transmit data, a MS has to undertake an attach procedure
and then to activate a PDP context, in order that its SGSN address is known by GGSNs.

3.3.1 MM states
The MM activities related to a GPRS subscriber are characterised by the following states:
- IDLE
The subscriber is not attached to the GPRS MM, paging is not possible.
The subscriber is not known from the different GPRS nodes.
The MM context holds no valid location or routing information for the subscriber.
- STANDBY
The subscriber is attached to GPRS MM.
CS and PS paging are possible but data transmission and reception are not possible.
The SGSN MM context contains only the RAI location information.
The MS may initiate activation or deactivation of PDP contexts while in this state.

in

- READY
After paging, the MM state in the SGSN is changed to READY when data or signalling
information is received from the MS.
The location information in the SGSN MM context is extended to cell level.
The MS may send and receive data in this state.
Regardless if a radio resource is allocated to the subscriber or not, the MM context remains
the READY state even when there is no data being communicated.
The READY state is supervised by a timer. When it expires, the state becomes STANDBY.

3.3.2 Location Management Function

The network provides information to the MS to:
- detect when it has entered a new cell or a new RA
- determine when to perform periodic RA updates
When a MS camps on a new cell, one of these 3 scenarios may occur:
- a cell update is required
when the MS enters a new cell inside the current RA and the MS is in READY state
- a routing area update is required
when GPRS-attached MS detects it has entered a new RA or when the periodic update timer
has expired
- a combined routing area and location area is required
(only in network operation mode I), when
- a GPRS-attached MS, which has an IMSI attach to perform, enters a new RA
- the periodic RA update timer expires while the MS shall remain IMSI attached

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3.4 Interactions between SGSN and MSC/VLR

This interaction needs the presence of the Gs interface, which provides interactions between SGSN
and MSC/VLR.
The association supports the following actions:
- IMSI attach and detach via SGSN (combined GPRS/IMSI attach/detach are possible)
- coordination of LA and RA update (combined RA/LA update)
- paging for a CS connection via the SGSN

3.4.1 Paging coordination

The network may provide coordination for paging CS and PS.
Paging coordination means that the network sends paging CS messages on the same channel as
used for PS paging messages (i.e. on the GPRS paging channel or the GPRS traffic channel).
Three network operation modes are defined:
- network operation mode I
The network sends a CS paging message for a GPRS-attached MS, either on the same channel as
the GPRS paging channel (i.e. the packet paging channel or the CCCH paging channel), or on a
GPRS traffic channel.
This means that the MS needs only to monitor one paging channel and that it receives CS paging
messages on the PDCH (PACCH) when it has been assigned a TBF.
MSC

Gs
BSS

BTS

CS Paging
PPCH/PCH
PS Paging
SGSN

Figure 7 Network operation mode I, with PCCCH or CCCH

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MSC

Gs
BSS

BTS

CS Paging
PACCH
SGSN

Figure 8 Network operation mode I, MS in packet transfer mode

- network operation mode II
The network sends a CS paging message for a GPRS-attached MS, on the CCCH paging channel,
and this channel is also used for GPRS paging.
This means that the MS needs only to monitor the PCH, but that CS paging continues on the PCH
even if the MS has been assigned a PDCH.

MSC
CS Paging

BTS

BSS
PCH
PS Paging
SGSN

Figure 9 Network operation mode II

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- network operation mode III

The network sends a CS paging message for a GPRS-attached MS, on the CCCH paging channel,
and sends a GPRS paging message on either the packet paging channel (if allocated in the cell) or
on the CCCH paging channel.
This means that a MS that wants to receive pages for both CS and PS shall monitor PCH and PPCH
(if there is a MPDCH).

MSC
CS Paging

BSS

BTS

PCH
PS Paging

PPCH

SGSN

Figure 10 Network mode operation III

Note: If there is no MPDCH, same case than mode II
The following table gives the characteristics of the 3 modes:
Circuit Paging Channel

GPRS Paging Channel

PCCCH

PCCCH

CCCH

CCCH

Packet data channel

(not applicable)

II

CCCH

CCCH

III

CCCH

PCCCH

CCCH

CCCH

Mode

Characteristics
- Gs interface
- MPDCH
(see Figure 7)
- Gs interface
- no MPDCH
- BSCGP interface
(see Erreur! Source
du
renvoi
introuvable.)
- Gs interface
(see Figure 8)
- BSCGP interface
- no MPDCH
- no Gs interface
(see Figure 9)
- MPDCH
- no Gs interface
(see Figure 10)
- no MPDCH
- BSCGP interface
- no Gs interface
(see Figure 9)

The network operation mode is notified to the MS either in PSI1 or in SI3.

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3.4.2 Paging for GPRS downlink transfer

An MS in STANDBY state is paged by the SGSN before a downlink transfer to that MS.
At the response of the paging (any LLC PDU), the MM state moves to READY and the downlink
transfer begins.
MS

BSS

SGSN

STANDBY

GPRS Paging request (2)

any LLC PDU (3)

PDP PDU

Paging request (1)

any LLC PDU (4)

READY

Figure 11 GPRS paging procedure

- (1):

On reception of a downlink PDP PDU, in the STANDBY state, the SGSN sends a BSSGP
paging request, with the IMSI (to calculate the MS paging group), the P-TMSI (identifier by
which the MS is paged), the Routing Area (determine the set of cells to be paged), QoS (not
used in B6.2) and the DRX parameters

- (2):

The BSS pages the MS with one message in each cell belonging to the Routing Area

- (3):

The MS responds with any LLC PDU which is interpreted by the SGSN as a page response.

- (4):

The BSS adds the cell identity.

3.4.3 Paging for CS connection establishment

CS paging are received from the SGSN, only in network operation mode I.
When a MS is attached to GPRS, the MSC/VLR executes paging for circuit-switched services via
SGSN. Class A and B MSs have the capability to receive CS page while attached to GPRS.
If the MS is in STAND-BY state, then it is paged in the routeing area.
If the MS is in READY state, then it is paged in the cell.
Upon receipt of a paging request message for a circuit-switched service, the MS may accept to
respond to this request and shall then follow the CS procedures for paging response.
When received at the BSS, the paging response message is sent to the MSC.

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4. ALCATEL ARCHITECTURE
(see also [20])

4.1 BSS architecture

4.1.1 PCU Concept

A Packet Control Unit (PCU) has been defined in [1], where are implemented RLC/MAC functions:
- LLC layer PDU segmentation into RLC blocks for downlink transmission
- LLC layer PDU reassembly from RLC blocks for uplink transmission
- PDCH scheduling functions for the uplink and downlink data transfers
- downlink and uplink ARQ (Automatic Retransmission Request) functions
- channel access control functions (e.g. access request and grant)
- radio channel management functions (e.g. power control, congestion control, broadcast
control information)
A PCU controls the GPRS activity of one cell.
The functions implemented, inside the Channel Codec Unit (CCU) are:
- channel coding functions, including FEC (Forwarding Error Correction) and interleaving
- radio channel measurement functions, including received quality level, received signal level
and information related to timing advance measurements.
The CCUs are implemented in the BTS.
The position of the PCU may be (see Figure 12)
- either at the BTS site
- or at the BSC site
- or at the SGSN site
When the PCU is positioned remote to the BTS, the information between the CCU and the PCU is
transferred in frames with a fixed length of 320 bits.
A frame shall be transferred between the PCU and the CCU, every 20 ms.

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BSC site
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CCU

SGSN site

BTS
PCU

CCU

CCU

BTS
PCU

CCU

CCU

BTS
PCU

CCU
Abis

Gb

circuit-switching function (16 or 64 kbit/s)

packet-switching function

Figure 12 PCU implementations

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4.1.2 ALCATEL implementation

The Alcatel approach for the implementation of GPRS in the BSS consists of a smooth and cost
effective introduction of GPRS by minimizing the hardware modification needed to the already
installed network elements (i.e. BTS and BSC).
To this end, a new network element, the MFS, supporting nearly all the GPRS specific functions of
the BSS, defined in the GPRS standard:
- PCU function
- standard Gb interface protocol stack
is introduced.
From the BTS perspective, the radio channels can be dynamically configured as TCH or PDCH.
The MFS is connected to the BSC by means of already installed Ater physical lines.
In order to support low GPRS traffic load, in a more optimized way, the transmission resources can
be shared between GPRS and circuit-switched traffic

CCU

Abis

CCU
BTS

MFS

BSC

CCU

PCU

CCU

PCU

SGSN

Gb
Um

BTS

BSC

Ater

Figure 13 ALCATEL BSS architecture

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Some GPRS functionalities have consequences on the transmission and control planes of the Alcatel
architecture.
- PCU location
Since PCU functionalities are located in the MFS, GSM-RF layer has to be extended to the MFS
(L1/L2 GCH layer) (see Figure 14 and Figure 15)
- GPRS common signalling
For GPRS common signalling needs, either CCCH (which is used for circuit-switched traffic) or a
dedicated channel PCCCH is used.
When CCCH is used, for GPRS common signalling, a signalling link has to be established between
the MFS and the BSC (L1/L2 GSL and BSCGP) (see Figure 16)
- Radio resources dynamic allocation
Radio and Abis resources are shared between circuit-switched and GPRS traffic, therefore a
signalling link has to be established between the MFS and the BSC (L1/L2 GSL and BSCGP) to
allow resources request. (see Figure 16)

4.1.3 Transmission plane

Two proprietary layers are implemented to extend the radio interface to the MFS (see Figure 14):
- L1-GCH is the physical layer which uses a synchronous mode of transmission (16 kbit/s)
- L2-GCH consists in a protocol between the MFS and the BTS for synchronisation with the
radio interface and channel activation.
GCH links go through the BSC transparently.
application
IP/X25
SNDCP

SNDCP

LLC

LLC
relay

RLC

RLC

MAC
GSM-RF

relay
GSM-RF

L2-GCH

L1-GCH

MS

BTS

Um

Abis/Ater

BSSGP

BSSGP

MAC
L2-GCH

NS

NS

L1-GCH

L1bis

L1bis

MFS

Gb

SGSN

Figure 14 BSS transmission plane

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4.1.4 Control plane

4.1.4.1 Control plane, with PCCCH usage
In this case, CCCH is not used, by GPRS functions and the BSC is transparent for GPRS common
signalling (see Figure 15).
- GMM/SM (GPRS Mobility Management/Session Management)
This protocol supports mobility management functionality such as GPRS attach/detach,
security, routeing area update, location update, PDP context activation/deactivation.
- RRM (Radio Resource Management) layer provides services for packet connection
management, for radio resource management and for paging requests routing.

GMM/SM

GMM/SM

LLC

LLC
relay

RR/RRM

RRM

MAC

BSSGP

L2-GCH

NS

NS

L1-GCH

L1bis

L1bis

MAC

GSM-RF

relay
GSM-RF

L2-GCH

L1-GCH

MS

BSSGP

RLC

RLC

Um

BTS

Abis/Ater

MFS

Gb

SGSN

Figure 15 BSS control plane (with PCCCH)

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4.1.4.2 Control plane, with CCCH usage

In this case, BSC signalling layers are concerned, in the connection establishment phase to access
to CCCH, for GPRS common signalling (see Figure 16):
- L1-RSL is the physical layer. It uses 64 or 16 kbit/s channels.
- L2-RSL consists of a LAP-D protocol.
- L1-GSL uses 64 kbit/s channels
- L2-GSL consists of a LAP-D protocol, doubled for redundancy reasons.
- BSCGP (Base Station Controller GPRS Protocol) conveys routeing of GPRS related
messages (GPRS paging messages, MS originated channel request, immediate assignment)
when the CCCH is used for GPRS signalling and handles channel allocation for GPRS
needs.
GMM/SM
LLC
BSSGP
RRM

RR/RRM

BSCGP

relay
BSCGP
L2-RSL
L2-GSL
L1-RSL
L1-GSL
RR

GSM-RF

relay
GSM-RF

L2-RSL

L1-RSL

MS

BTS

Um

Abis

BSC

NS

L2-GSL
L1-GSL
MFS
Ater

L1bis
Gb

Figure 16 BSS control plane (without PCCCH)

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4.1.5 Physical interfaces

4.1.5.1 Principles
AterMux
Ater

signalling n 7

SM

SM

TC

MSC

BSC
GCH
MFS

SGSN

GSL
Gb
Abis

Ater

16 kbit/s on 64 kbit/s circuit

SM:

Sub Multiplexer

64 kbit/s on 64 kbit/s circuit

TC:

TransCoder (speech transcoding)

16 kbit/s on 16 kbit/s circuit

Figure 17 BSS physical interface

- Abis interface:

This interface is used both for CS and GPRS traffic.

With G2 BSC, resources are dynamically allocated either to GPRS traffic or
circuit-switched traffic.
16kbit/s channels are dynamically switched by the BSC between Abis and
Ater interfaces.

to

- Ater interface:

This interface is used both for CS and GPRS traffic.

On this interface, two functionally different types of channels are used, for
GPRS traffic:
- GPRS Signalling Links (GSL) for signalling purposes between the BSC and
the MFS (not supported by G1 BSC)
One GSL channel consists of one 64 kbit/s LAPD channel. For redundancy
reason it is duplicated.
they are used for:
- dynamic configuration of radio timeslots
- CS/PS paging, GPRS access procedure (when CCCH is used)
- O&M purposes
- GPRS traffic Channels (GCH) carrying the GPRS traffic between the MFS
and one GPRS radio timeslot in the BTS (16 kbit/s)
GCH channels are dynamically through connected by the BSC between Abis
and Ater interfaces.

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- AterMux interface:

On this interface, 16 kbit/s channels are multiplexed on 64 kbit/s circuits.

This interface is used for circuit-switched and GPRS traffic.
These multiplexed 16 kbit/s channels are called nibbles.

Ater interface

AterMux interface

TS
TS
(4 nibbles)

tributary 1
tributary 2
SM
tributary 3
tributary 4

TS:

64 Kbit/s Time-Slot

Figure 18 4:1 multiplexing scheme

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The AterMux PCM is composed of 32 timeslots at 64kbit/s, shared between CS timeslots and GPRS
timeslots.
The CS timeslots are made up of:
- timeslots composed of 3 or 4 CS nibbles at 16kbit/s (according to the multiplexing scheme 3:1 or
4:1 of the BSC); a CS nibble carry the voice for a transaction
- CS signalling N7
- other specific O&M timeslots not related to CS (X25, Qmux, Alarm octet)
The GPRS timeslots on the AterMux contain:
- the timeslots devoted to the transport of GPRS data composed of 3 or 4 GPRS nibbles at
16kbit/s
- the GPRS signalling channels (64k) called GSL channels

PCM link
between BSC
and MFS
(AterMux)

CS nibbles

CIRCUIT
SWITCHED

N7 signalling link(s)

X25 , Alarm octet, Qmux

data
nibbles
GPRS

GSL link(s)

Figure 19 Mixed CS/GPRS AterMux composition

When the AterMux is mixed CS/GPRS, the CS timeslots are cross-connected transparently towards
the MFS-TC interface in order to transcode the voice, and the GPRS timeslots are converted into the
Gb interface protocol to be forwarded to the SGSN. (see Figure 20)
- Gb interface:

The Gb physical interface consists of one or more 64 kbit/s time-slots.

They can be carried by the MFS-SM/TC AterMux interface or by direct 2048
kbit/s links to the SGSN.

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4.1.5.2 Connection types

4.1.5.2.1 Ater interface

The MFS main entity is the GPU board.
Each GPU board can be connected to one BSC.
As the MFS should be localised in the same place as the MSC, it may use, for GPRS traffic
transport, the existing Ater resources between the BSC and the TC/MSC sites.
Two options can be taken:
- PCM fully dedicated to GPRS traffic
- mixed CS/GPRS PCM
This is performed by allocating some of the Ater timeslots for GPRS traffic.
CS timeslots are routed transparently through the MFS.(see Figure 20)
AterMux
MFS
MSC
BSC
SGSN

PCM

Gb
CS circuit

Figure 20 Mixed CS/GPRS PCM

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4.1.5.2.2 Gb interface
For MFS to SGSN connections, 3 options can be taken:
1) combined AterMux links and Gb links through TC and MSC (see Figure 21)
- CS timeslots are routed transparently through the MFS
- GPRS timeslots are processed in the MFS and replaced by Gb timeslots
- GPRS timeslots are set as transparent in the TC
MFS

PCM

TC

MSC

BSC
SGSN

Gb

CS circuit

Figure 21 Combined CS/Gb PCM

2) Gb links direct from MFS to SGSN
3) Gb links between MFS and SGSN through MSC (see Figure 22)
- a PCM is dedicated to Gb interface
- GPRS timeslots are processed in the MFS and replaced by Gb timeslots
MFS

MSC

PCM
BSC
SGSN

Gb

Figure 22 Gb links through the MFS

(all the 3 options may use a synchronous frame relay network to access the SGSN)

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4.2 GPRS global architecture

The Alcatel GPRS architecture is depicted Figure 23:
OMC-R

HLR
Gr

BSS
Gb
BTS

BSC

MFS

SGSN

GGSN
Gn

Gs
MSC/VLR
1 to n relation

Figure 23 GPRS architecture

The main characteristics are the following:
- All the BSS connected to the same MFS are managed by the same OMC-R
- All the BSS connected to the same MFS can be connected to different MSCs, provided
they
are located on a same site.
- All the BSS connected to the same MFS are connected to the same SGSN
- Gs interface:
Through this interface, an association is created between SGSN and MSC/VLR to provide for
interactions between SGSN and MSC/VLR.
The association is used for coordinating MSs that are both GPRS-attached anf IMSI attached
(coordination of LA and RA update, CS paging via SGSN,...)
When this interface is present, Network operates in mode I (see 3.4.1)
- Gn interface
Interface between GSN nodes in the GPRS backbone network.
The GTP on this interface includes both signalling and data transfer procedures.
- Gr interface
Interface between SGSN and HLR.
MM procedures use MAP protocol on this interface.

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5. GPRS RADIO INTERFACE

5.1 Interfaces description

(see [2] and [3])
The following figure sums up MS-network interface, in Alcatel implementation:
- Packet data transfer and associated signalling is carried on GCH links.
- GPRS common signalling is carried either by GCH links, if PCCCH exists or by GSL/RSL
links, if PCCCH doesnt exist.
- Resource management is handled through GSL links
BTS

BSC

CCCH

L2-RSL

BCCH

L1-RSL

common
signalling
on CCCH

MFS

BSCGP
L2-RSL

L2-GSL

L1-RSL

L1-GSL

- common
signalling
on CCCH
- (M)PDCH
(de)alloc.
- cell/BSC/CIC
state change

RRM
BSCGP
L2-GSL
L1-GSL

GSL
GSM-RF

Abis

Ater
RLC

PCCCH
PBCCH
PDTCH

MAC
L2-GCH
L1-GCH

Um

GCH

- Packet data transfer and associated signalling

- common signalling on PBCCH/PCCCH

L2-GCH
L1-GCH

Figure 24 MS-Network interface

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5.2 Um interface

5.2.1 GSM-RF layer

The purpose of this layer is to provide communication between the MSs and the BTS.
This layer supports multiple MSs sharing a single physical channel.
This layer is responsible for:
- Forwarding Error Correction (FEC) coding, allowing the detection and correction of
transmitted code words and the indication of uncorrectable code words.
- rectangular interleaving (on the radio interface)
This layer control functions include:
- synchronisation procedure, including means for determining and adjusting the MS timing
advance.
- monitoring and evaluation procedures for radio link signal quality
- cell (re)selection procedure
- transmitter power control procedures
- discontinuous reception procedures

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5.2.2 packet data logical channels

The access scheme is Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) with eight basic physical channels per
carrier (TS 0 to 7).
A GPRS time-slot is named a Packet Data CHannel (PDCH)
1 TDMA frame = 8 TS (4,615 ms)

7 0

7 0

48

49

50

51

1 (52-frame) multiframe = 52 TDMA frames (240 ms)

Figure 25 Time slots and frames

A PDCH is mapped dynamically on a 52-multiframe.
The 52 multiframe consists of 12 blocks of 4 consecutive frames, 2 idle frames (frames 25 and 51)
and 2 frames used for the PTCCH (frames 12 and 38).

frame 0
block

4
B0

1
2

8
B1

B2

13
B3

17
B4

21
B5

2
5

26

30

B6

B7

3
8

34
B8

39
B9

43
B10

47

B11 x

Figure 26 52- multiframe

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Different packet data logical channels can occur on the same physical channel (i.e. PDCH). The
sharing of the physical channel is based on blocks of 4 consecutive bursts.
- PCCCH (Packet Common Control Channel)
This channel deals with common control (paging, access grant, random access)
It does not have to be allocated permanently in the cell. Whenever the PCCCH is not allocated, the
CCCH shall be used to initiate a packet transfer.
When it exists, the PCCCH is mapped on one or several PDCHs (only one in step1). In that case, the
PCCCH, PBCCH and PDTCH share same PDCHs.
The PCCCH supports the following sub-channels:
- PRACH (Packet Random Access CHannel)
PRACH is determined by the USF (see 5.5.4.1) that is broadcast continuously on the corresponding
downlink.
- PPCH (Packet Paging CHannel)
- PAGCH (Packet Access Grant CHannel)
- PBCCH (Packet Broadcast Control Channel)
It broadcasts general information used by the MS to access the network for packet transmission and
information (transmitted on BCCH) to allow CS operation.
It does not have to be allocated permanently in the cell.
It is mapped on one or several PDCHs (only one, in step1). The mapping on the PDCH follows a
predefined rule.
The existence of the PCCCH, and consequently the existence of the PBCCH, is indicated on the
BCCH.
- PTCH (Packet Traffic Channel)
It is used for user data transmission and its associated signalling
- PDTCH (packet Data Traffic CHannel)
It is mapped onto one PDCH. up to 8 PDTCHs, with different timeslots but with the same
frequency parameters, may be allocated to one MS at the same time.
- PACCH (Packet Associated Control CHannel)
It is mapped onto one PDCH. It is dynamically allocated on the block basis.
If a single PDTCH is assigned to one MS, the corresponding PACCH is allocated on the
same PDCH.
If multiple PDTCHs are assigned to one MS, PACCH is always allocated on one of the
PDCHs on which PDTCHs are allocated. the position of the PDCH carrying the PACCH is provided
explicitly in the resource assignment message.
PACCH is bi-directional (i.e. it can dynamically be allocated both on the uplink and on the
downlink regardless on whether the corresponding PDTCH assignment is for uplink or downlink)
- PTCCH (Packet Timing advance Control Channel)
This bi-directional channel is used for continuous timing advance mechanism.
The PDCH carrying the PTCCH of one MS is the same PDCH carrying the PACCH of that MS.
A MS shall be allocated a sub-channel of the uplink PTCCH according to the Timing Advance Index
(TAI). (see 5.2.5.2)
- burst types
On PRACH access bursts are used. On all other packet data logical channels, radio blocks
comprising 4 normal bursts are used. The only exception is the Packet Control ACK message on
uplink PACCH which comprise 4 consecutive access bursts.
- GPRS master channel (MPDCH)
A PDCH will be called master GPRS channel when it carries PBCCH and PCCCH channels.

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Two cases have to be foreseen:

5.2.2.1 no GPRS master channel
In this case, BCCH and CCCH are used both for circuit-switched traffic and packet traffic.
So BSC has to forward uplink CCCH flow either towards the MSC or the MFS.

MS

BTS

BSC

MFS

BCCH
CCCH (PCH, AGCH)
CCCH (RACH)
PTCH (PDTCH, PACCH)
PTCH (PDTCH, PACCH)
PTCCH

GCH (GPRS CHannel)

RSL (Radio Signalling Link)
GSL (GPRS Signalling Link)

Figure 27 GPRS logical channels (without GPRS master channel)

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In this case, information flow goes transparently through the BSC.

GPRS master channel is defined thanks to BCCH system information.
MS

BTS

BSC

MFS

BCCH

PBCCH
PCCCH (PPCH, PAGCH)
PCCCH (PRACH)
PTCH (PDTCH, PACCH)
PTCH (PDTCH, PACCH)

PTCCH

GCH (GPRS CHannel)

Figure 28 GPRS logical channels (with GPRS master channel)

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5.2.3 Channel coding

On the radio interface, data can be coded according to four different coding schemes, CS1 to CS4
(CS3 and CS4 are not part of the GPRS step 1).
These coding schemes offer different redundancy levels.
CS

RLC data block

RLC data unit

RLC data unit

throughput
(kbit/s)
8
12
14,4
20

(RLC header + RLC data)

(bytes)
22
32
38
52

CS1
CS2
CS3
CS4

MAC header (1 byte)

(bytes)
20
30
36
50

RLC/MAC block
RLC header (2 bytes)
RLC data unit
RLC data block without spare bits

spare bits

CS1 is always used for signalling. (it is the most protected CS)
CS1 and CS2 can both be used for traffic, depending on radio conditions.
This choice is done by the MFS (RRM/RLC layer), according to
- reception quality
- and level measurements performed by the BTS,
and coding is applied, on the radio interface, on RLC/MAC PDU + BCS (Block Check Sequence);
In the UL, the coding scheme is transmitted to the MS in the TBF establishment phase.
If the MFS decides to change the coding scheme, it sends an extra PACKET UL ACK/NACK
message to the MS.
An O&M parameter allows to enable/disable the CS adaptation mechanism.
MS

BTS

channel coding

MFS

coding
scheme

coding
scheme
determination

O&M

uplink flow
reception
measurements

RXQUAL/RXLEV
BTS type

Figure 29 Channel coding

Note: FUMO BTS handles only CS1

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5.2.4 Cell re-selection

The MS performs autonomous cell re-selection (NC0).
The MS shall measure the received signal strength on the BCCH frequencies of the serving cell and
the neighbour cells, as indicated in the BA-GPRS list, and calculate the received level average of
each frequency.
MS applies either existing GSM reselection parameters, in case of cell without PBCCH or GPRS
reselection parameters in case of cell with PBCCH.

5.2.5 Timing advance

The timing advance procedure is used to derive the correct value for timing advance that the MS has
to use for the uplink transmission of radio blocks.
The timing advance procedure comprises 2 parts:
- initial advance estimation
- continuous timing advance update
5.2.5.1 Initial timing advance estimation

5.2.5.1.1 Uplink data transfer

It is based on BTS measurements, on the single access burst carrying the Packet Channel Request.
The Packet UL Resource Assignment then carries the estimated timing advance value (TA) to the
MS. This value shall be used by the MS for the uplink transmissions until the continuous timing
advance update provides a new value.
MS

BTS

MFS

TAI:
Timing
Advance
Index

Packet Channel Request

(PRACH
or RACH)

timing advance
calculation
Packet Channel Request
+ timing advance (TA)
TAI
allocation

Packet UL
Assignment (TA + TAI)

to be used for
continuous
timing advance
update

Packet UL
Assignment ( TA + TAI)

(PAGCH
or AGCH)

Figure 30 Timing advance mechanisms (UL data transfer)

Note: Data transfer establishment procedures are detailed in 5.5.2.1.
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5.2.5.1.2 Downlink data transfer

In this case a polling indication (see 5.5.4.2) is sent in the Packet DL Resource assignment to
request to the MS a Packet Control ACK as four access bursts, on which the timing advance will be
calculated, by the BTS.
MS

BTS

MFS
LLC PDU
TAI
allocation

(PAGCH)

to be used for
continuous
timing advance
update

Packet DL assignment
with polling (TAI)

Packet control ACK

(PACCH)

timing
advance
calculation

Packet control ACK

(timing advance)

packet power/timing update

Figure 31 Timing advance mechanisms (downlink data transfer) (MPDCH case)

5.2.5.2 Continuous timing advance update
This procedure is carried only on the PDCH which carries PACCH.
For packet transfer ( in Packet DL/UL Assignment), the MS is assigned a Timing Advance Index
(TAI) which determines on which uplink frame an access burst has to be sent.
The TAI allows 16 different positions in groups of eight 52-multiframes (frames 12 and 38).
The BTS analyses the received access burst and determines a new timing value.
The new timing advance values are sent via a downlink signalling message (TA-message) mapped
on the same frames (12 and 38), which contains timing advance values for all the MSs.
Four consecutive TA-messages are identical (i.e. timing advance values are updated only every 4
TA-messages).
This mechanism works without knowledge of the MS entity by the BTS and there is no need for
interactions between the BTS and the MFS.
TA value is updated every 0,96 s (4 x 0,24).

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BTS

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n/12 (52 multi-frame number=n/frame number=12)

TA
calculation
TA-message n/38
n/38
TA
calculation
TA-message n+1/12

n+1/12
TA
calculation
TA-message n+1/38
n+1/38
TA
calculation
TA-message n+2/12
TA-message
update

Figure 32 Continuous timing advance update mechanism

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The following table shows, according to the TAI value

- the position of the uplink PTCH
- and the first TA message which will contain the last calculated timing advance
uplink PTCH
TAI
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
...
15
0

52 multi-frame
n
n
n+1
n+1
n+2
n+2
n+3
n+3
n+4
n+4
...
n+7
n+8

frame
12
38
12
38
12
38
12
38
12
38
...
38
12

first TA message where timing

advance is taken into account
52 multi-frame
frame
n+2
12
n+2
12
n+2
12
n+2
12
n+4
12
n+4
12
n+4
12
n+4
12
n+6
12
n+6
12
.....
....
n+8
12
n+10
12

Figure 33 Continuous timing advance update scheduling

5.2.6 Power control

For the UL power control, 2 methods can be used:
- open loop:
For the MS, the output power is based on the received signal strength assuming the same path loss
in uplink and downlink.
- closed loop:
The output power is commanded by the network based on signal strength measurements, made in
the BTS, in a similar way as for CS connection.
Only UL power control in open loop is implemented.
When accessing a cell on the PRACH, the MS shall use the output power defined by
GPRS_MS_TXPWR_MAX_CCH (maximum allowed output power in the cell), broadcast on PBCCH
of the serving cell.

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5.2.7 Discontinuous reception (DRX)

This function allows a MS not to monitor all PCCCH blocks, but only blocks defined by its paging
group.
Negotiation of DRX parameters is per MS, an MS may choose to use DRX or not together with some
operating parameters given to the SGSN, in the GPRS-Attach message:
- DRX/non-DRX indicator
- [DRX period] defined by SPLIT_PG_CYCLE
(the DRX period is equal to about 15,36/SPLIT_PG_CYCLE seconds, 15,36 s corresponds to
64 52-multiframes)
- [non-DRX timer] time period within which non-DRX mode is kept after leaving the transfer
state.
These parameters and the IMSI (which is used to determine the paging group) are sent to the MFS in
- page request (to determine on which block the paging request will be sent)
- DL blocks (to determine on which block the Packet DL assignment will be sent)
Paging groups are numbered on 64 * 52- multitrames basis.
In the following table, an example is shown, where 4 blocks, per 52-multiframe are dedicated for
PCCCH (4 x 64 = 256 paging groups).
B0

B1

PBCCH

PBCCH

B2
PG 0
PG 4

PBCCH
PBCCH

PBCCH

PG:

B3

B4

PBCCH

PBCCH

B5
PG 2
PG 6

B6

PG 252

PBCCH

PG 0

PBCCH

B7

PBCCH

PBCCH

B8
PG 1
PG 5

B9

B10

PBCCH

B11
PG 3
PG 7

PG 254

PBCCH

PG 253

PBCCH

PG 255

PG 2

PBCCH

PG 1

PBCCH

PG 3

0
1
63
0

Paging Group

Figure 34 paging group configuration example

The MFS determines the paging group from the IMSI value.
To reduce paging group periodicity (15,36 s), this period is devided by SPLIT_PG_CYCLE value.
When page for CS services is conveyed on PPCH, it follows the same scheduling principles as the
page for packet data
MS applies existing GSM DRX procedures if there is no MPDCH.

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5.2.8 System information broadcasting

The BCCH indicates whether or not packet switched traffic is supported (RA_COLOUR field in SI3 is
present if GPRS is supported in the cell), SI13 message shall be sent on BCCH if and only if GPRS
is supported in the cell.
There are two distinct cases for the network to convey the relevant information to the MS:
- no PBCCH in the cell
The MS uses the common BCCH system information messages for both CS and GPRS services (in
this case it is not possible to indicate to the MS the neighbour cells which effectively support GPRS,
nor to use specific reselection parameters for GPRS).
SI13 contains all necessary parameters for GPRS.
- PBCCH in the cell
Based on BCCH information, contained in SI13, the MS switches directly to the PBCCH, where the
MS will get all relevant information broadcast in PSI messages.
The MS shall read:
- PSI1 message
- a consistent set of PSI2 messages
- a consistent set of PSI3 messages and optional PSI3bis message
Consistency of System Information is provided by the following parameters:
- PBCCH_CHANGE_MARK (in PSI1 message, its value is changed each time any
information has been changed in other system information messages on PBCCH)
- MA/PSI3/.._CHANGE-MARK (in other PSI messages, its value identifies a consistent set of
the PSI group. Its value is changed each time information has been updated in any of the PSIx
messages).
The following GPRS specific System Information is broadcast:
- PSI1:
- common parameters
- control channel information for GPRS
- PBCCH_CHANGE_MARK
(When a MS has read all the GPRS PSI messages once, only PSI1 needs to be read until
PBCCH_CHANGE_MARK value is modified)
- PSI2:
- list of PCCCHs
- list of mobile allocations
- PSI3:
- BA_lists ( BCCH allocation in the neighbour cells)
- cell reselection parameters
To avoid that MSs which are involved in a data transfer have to read PBCCH or BCCH,
- PSI1 is broadcast on PACCHs, if there is a master PDCH
- PSI13 (same information than in SI13) is broadcast on PACCHs, if there is no master
PDCH

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5.3 BSCGP layer

5.3.1 BSCGP layer functions

In addition to radio resource management, the BSCGP layer is also used for the following purposes:
- radio signalling
- CS/PS paging (when there is no GPRS master channel)
- channel request/assignment (when there is no GPRS master channel) (see 5.5.2.1.1.2
and
5.5.2.1.2.2)
- system control
- GSL reset procedure
After link recovery, this procedure is performed to synchronize PDCH allocation and
entity status information.
- state change indication (related to: cell, BSS, and PCM entities)
- traffic control (access class changes)
- cell start/stop for GPRS traffic (MFS has to notify this information, in order to broadcast
this information on SI3)

MFS

BSC

radio signalling
BSCGP

BSCGP
GPRS radio resource management
system control

L2-GSL

L2-GSL

L1-GSL

L1-GSL

Figure 35 BSC-MFS interface

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5.3.2 Radio resource management

A cell supporting GPRS may allocate resources on one or several physical channels (i.e. PDCHs) in
order to support the GPRS traffic.
Those PDCHs, shared by the GPRS MSs are taken from the common pool of physical channels
available in the cell.
The allocation of physical channels to circuit switched services and GPRS is done dynamically
according to the capacity on-demand.
Common control signalling required by GPRS in the initial phase of the packet transfer is conveyed
on PCCCH, when allocated, or on CCCH.
GPRS does not require permanently allocated PDCHs.
However, the existence of PDCH does not imply the existence of PCCCH.
The information about PCCCH is broadcast on BCCH.
This management is realized, by the RRM layer, through the BSCGP layer (GPRS radio resource
management) (see Figure 36):
- PDCH allocation/deallocation (1)
- PDCHs are always dynamically allocated.
- The minimum number of PDCHs (MIN_PDCH_GROUP), the maximum number of
PDCHs
under normal BSC load (MAX_PDCH_GROUP) and the maximum number of
PDCHs under high BSC load conditions (MAX_PDCH_HIGH_LOAD) are set by cell via O&M (5).
- Between MIN_PDCH_GROUP and MAX_PDCH_GROUP / MAX_PDCH_HIGH_LOAD,
the number of allocated PDCHs fluctuates dynamically,
according to:
- circuit-switched traffic load, in the cell
- GPRS traffic load, in the cell
- a new channel request from a mobile
- When a PDCH is allocated, a link is established at GCH level between the MFS and the
BTS (2).
- The BSC notifies high and normal cell load conditions to the MFS (3).
An O&M parameter defines, in the BSC, a threshold corresponding to high load indication.
Under high BSC cell load conditions, the MFS marks allocated PDCHs, exceeding the
maximum number (MAX_PDCH_HIGH_LOAD), as unavailable for new TBFs. When all
TBFs carried by these PDCHs are normally terminated, the PDCHs are deallocated and
corresponding links are released at GCH level (2)

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- GPRS master channel allocation/deallocation (4)

The dynamic allocation of the GPRS Master channel is not supported in B6.2 (i.e. there is no
measurement of GPRS signalling load on CCCH to dynamically allocate/deallocate the
MPDCH).
The operator configures statically whether a GPRS cell supports or not a MPDCH (6).
At cell activation, MFS requests the BSC to allocate one slot which is then afterwards
marked
as a master PDCH (4).

BTS

BSC

MFS
GPRS master
ch. alloc/dealloc (4)

O&M

master
master
channel
channel
management
management

(6)

(5)

PDCH
alloc/dealloc.(1)

BSC_LOAD
(3)

PDCH
management
packet channel
req/rel.

GCH ch.
act/release. (2)

Figure 36 PDCH and GPRS master channel management

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5.4 GCH layer

This layer has to provide the continuation of the radio interface from the BTS to the MFS.
For this purpose, the radio and GCH interfaces have to be synchronised.
A L1GCH channel has a transmission rate of 16 kbit/s (320 bits frames, every 20 ms)
The following figure shows the ideal alignment between the MFS and the BTS, in terms of buffer
delay in the BTS.
F
N
1
2

F
N
0
52 multiframe

Downlink
GPRS
frames
(ideal
alignment)

B0

B1

B1

B2

B2
T1

F
N
2
5

B3
T2

B3

B4
T3

B4

B5

B5
T4

B6
T5

T6

F
N
3
8
B6

B7

B7

B8
T7

F
N
5
1

B8

B9
T8

B9

B 10
T9

B 10 B 11

B 11
T10

B0
T11

T0

Figure 37 Downlink synchronisation between GCH and radio layers

GCH layer has the following functionalities:
- GCH link establishment and synchronisation with the radio interface
(MAC layer, in the MFS has to know, for multiplexing purpose, on which 52-multiframe block,
a GCH frame will be sent)
- RLC/MAC PDUs transfer

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5.5 RRM/RLC/MAC Layers

The MAC function defines the procedures that enable multiple MSs to share a common transmission
medium, which may consist of several physical channels (PDCHs).
The MAC function provides arbitration between multiple MSs attempting to transmit simultaneously.
The RLC function defines the procedures for a bit-map selective retransmission of unsuccessfully
delivered RLC data blocks and for segmentation and re-assembly of LLC PDUs.
The RRM function provides services for packet connection management, for radio resource
management, for paging requests over radio interface.

5.5.1 Definitions
5.5.1.1 Temporary Block Flow (TBF)
A TBF is a physical connection used by 2 RR entities (one in the MS, the other in the MFS, both
involved in a point to point dialogue for packet connection establishment) to support the
unidirectional transfer of LLC PDUs on packet data physical channels.
The TBF is allocated radio resource on one or more PDCHs and comprises a number of RLC/MAC
blocks carrying one or more LLC PDUs.
A TBF is temporary and is maintained only for the duration of the data transfer.
An example is given, in the figure below.
MS2 and MS3 are involved in a DL transfer, using the same PDCH (PDCH3), MS4 in an UL transfer,
using 2 PDCHs (PDCH3 and PDCH4) and MS1 in an UL and DL transfer, using one PDCH UL
(PDCH1) and 2 PDCHs DL (PDCH1 and PDCH2).
UL TBF
DL TBF

PDCH4

PDCH2
PDCH1

PDCH
PDCH3

MS
MS1

MS2

MS3

MS4

downlink flow
uplink flow

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02

Figure 38 Addressing concepts, in a cell

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5.5.1.2 Temporary Flow Identity (TFI)

Each TBF is assigned a TFI, by the MFS. The TFI is unique in each direction, within a cell, but the
same TFI value may be used concurrently for TBFs in opposite directions.
(32 values , per cell, for each direction: DL and UL)
5.5.1.3 Temporary Logical Link Identity (TLLI)
In the STANDBY or in the READY state (see 3), a TLLI is allocated, by the SGSN, to the MS.
The TLLI identifies a link between a MS and the SGSN.
5.5.1.4 RR modes
The RR modes related to a GPRS subscriber are the following:
- packet idle mode
In this mode, the MS is not allocated any radio resource on a PDCH, it listens to the PBCCH
and PCCCH or, if those are not provided by the network, to the BCCH and the CCCH.
- packet transfer mode
In this mode, the MS is allocated radio resource on one or more PDCHs for the transfer of
LLC PDUs.

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5.5.2 RRM functions

5.5.2.1 TBF establishment

The establishment of a Temporary Block Flow can be initiated by either the MS or the network.
The request for the establishment of a TBF is performed
- on the PCCCH, if it exists
- if not, on the CCCH

5.5.2.1.1 Uplink TBF establishment

5.5.2.1.1.1 TBF establishment initiated by the MS on PCCCH

The purpose of MS initiated TBF establishment is to establish a TBF to support the transfer of LLC
PDUs in the direction from the MS to the network (uplink).
Packet access shall be done on PCCCH
The PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST message is sent on PRACH and contains the following
parameters, according to the packet channel access:
packet channel access

multi-slot class

one phase access

short access
two phase access
page response
cell update
MM procedure
measurement report
(not in step1)

class
X
X
X
X
X
X

X: the field is not used

number
blocks
X
1 to 8
X
X
X
X
X

of

[priority]
(only in 11 bits
format)
1 to 4
1 to 4
1 to 4
X
X
X
X

[...]: conditional

random value
(8bits/11bits
format)
2b/3b
3b/3b
3b/3b
3b/5b
3b/5b
3b/5b
3b/5b

2b/3b: 2 or 3 bits
according to the
burst format

Figure 39 PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST parameters

Priority field exists only in 11 bits format, the 8 bits format has a default priority: 4 the lowest.
Short access shall be used if the amount of data can fit in 8 or less than 8 RLC/MAC blocks.

5.5.2.1.1.1.1 One phase packet access

On receipt of the PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST, radio resources are allocated and a PACKET UL
ASSIGNMENT message is returned to the MS with the following parameters:
- allocation type (dynamic allocation)
- resource allocation (PDCH(s))
- coding scheme to apply
- TFI
- USF(s) (one for each PDCH)
- packet timing advance (initial value and timing advance index)
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- packet request reference

This field provides the information field sent in the PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST and the
frame number (modulo 42432), in which the PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST was received.
The purpose of this field is to address the MS and to solve possible contention situations.
The MS is requested to send a Packet Control Acknowledgement. Allocation of radio blocks, to the
TBF, will start only on Packet Control Acknowledgement reception.
If radio resources are not available, the MFS sends a PACKET ACCESS REJECT to the MS, on the
same PCCCH on which the Packet Channel request message was received.
To solve the case where 2 MSs would have sent a PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST with the same
information field, on the same frame number, the MS shall send its TLLI in the first 3 RLC data
blocks.
The MFS acknowledges, with PACKET UL ACK/NACK, the first correctly received RLC data block.
This message contains the TLLI which should solve the contention (the discarded MS will receive a
PACKET UL ACK/NACK with the right TFI, but with another TLLI)
MS

BTS

MFS

timing
advance
calculation

idle

Packet channel request

(PRACH)

packet channel
req. (+ TA)
resource
allocation

packet UL assignment
(packet req., ref., TFI,
USF,TA, TAI) (polling) (*)

ack.1ph
waiting

Packet Control Ack.

Packet Control Ack.
switch on
assigned
PDCH(s)

radio blocks
allocation
activation
assigning

LLC PDU (TLLI, TFI)

LLC PDU (TLLI, TFI)

packet UL ACK/NACK (TLLI, TFI)

transfering

contention
resolution

Note: For state definition (idle, ack.1ph waiting,....) see Erreur! Source du renvoi introuvable.
(*):

On the same PCCCH on which the Packet Channel request was received

Figure 40 one phase access, UL TBF establishment, nominal case, on PCCCH

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5.5.2.1.1.1.2 Two phases packet access

A 2 phases access can be initiated by the MS, in the PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST, provided the
network sets the response indicator parameter in the PACKET UL ASSIGNMENT.
On receipt of the Packet Channel request, a Packet UL assignment message is sent to the MS
providing the definition of one UL radio block to send the Packet Resource request message
(assigned PDCH, starting time identifying the first number of the single block), the initial TA value
and the response indicator denoting 2 phase access.
The message is sent on the same PCCCH on which the network has received the Packet Channel
request (no TFI, nor USF, nor TAI are yet assigned to the MS), (no polling).
At occurrence of the allocated UL radio block, the MS will transmit a PACKET RESOURCE
REQUEST message with the following parameters:
- TLLI (to allow contention resolution)
- MS classmark
- channel request description
- time-slot requested (1 to 8)
- priority (1 to 4)
- RLC mode (acknowledged/unacknowledged)
- LLC frame type
(type of the first LLC frame to be transmitted over the requested UL TBF:
- SACK or NACK
- or other)
- number of RLC data octets the MS wishes to transfer
- CS requested
- allocation reference
This field allows the MS to associate messages sent on UL containing resource requests
with the corresponding DL resource allocation messages.
On receipt of a PACKET RESOURCE REQUEST message, MFS assigns a TFI, radio resources (on
one or more PDCHs, with the associated USF(s)) and TAI, with a PACKET UL ASSIGNMENT
message sent on PAGCH, containing the TLLI for contention resolution.
The MS is requested to send a Packet Control Acknowledgement. Allocation of radio blocks, to the
TBF, will start only on Packet Control Acknowledgement reception.

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BTS

MFS

Packet channel request

(PRACH)

timing
advance
calculation

packet UL assignment
(packet req. ref.,
starting-time, TA)

idle
packet channel
req. + TA
one UL block
allocation

idle

Packet resource request

(TLLI) (on the block affected
by TBF starting-time)
packet UL assignment (TLLI, TFI,
USF(s), TAI)
(polling)
(PAGCH)
contention
resolution

resource
allocation

ack.2ph
waiting

Packet Control Ack.

radio blocks
allocation
activation

switch on
assigned
PDCH

transfering

Note: For state definition (idle, ack.2ph waiting,....) see Erreur! Source du renvoi introuvable.
Figure 41 two phase access, UL TBF establishment, nominal case, on PCCCH

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5.5.2.1.1.2 TBF establishment initiated by the MS on CCCH

In this case, the RACH is used.
MFS receives the request on GSL interface and the channel assignment is returned through the
same interface.
The channel request message contains one of the 2 following indications:
- one phase access with request for single timeslot UL transmission. One PDCH is needed
(the MS mulit-slot class is unknown in this case).
In this case the immediate assignment message contains the TFI, the USF value, the TAI
and
the initial timing advance value. It is sent on the same CCCH on which the Channel request
message was received.
Then, the MFS waits for T_ul_assign_ccch, before sending a Packet UL assignment
message, assigning the same resources as those assigned previously, with polling indication,
to request the MS a Packet Control Ack.
MS

BTS

BSC

MFS

idle

(RACH)
timing
advance
calculation
channel req. + TA

resource
allocation

(AGCH)

immediate assignment
(TFI, USF, TAI, TA)

switch on
assigned
PDCH

wait

timer
(T_ul_assign
_ccch)

Packet UL assignment (polling). (TFI, USF, TAI)

ack.1ph
waiting

Packet control ACK

(PACCH)

assigning

radio blocks
allocation
activation

LLC PDU (TLLI, TFI)

packet UL ACK/NACK (TLLI, TFI)

transfering

Note: For state definition (idle, ack.1ph waiting,....) see Erreur! Source du renvoi introuvable.
Figure 42 one phase access, UL TBF establishment, nominal case, on CCCH
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- single block packet access, one block period on a PDCH is needed for 2 phases access.
In this case, the immediate assignment message doesnt contain a TFI, nor an USF, nor a
TAI, it contains only a TBF starting time indicating a block to send a RLC/MAC block (e.g. a
Packet Resource request for 2 phases access) and an initial timing advance value.

MS

BTS

BSC

MFS

idle

(RACH)
timing
advance
calculation
channel req. + TA

immediate assignment
(TBF starting time, TA)

(AGCH)

idle

Packet resource req. (TLLI)

(on the block allocated
by TBF starting time)

resource
allocation

(PACCH)

Packet UL assignment (polling). (TFI, USF(s),TAI)

ack.2ph
waiting

(PACCH)

Packet control ACK

radio blocks
allocation
activation

switch on
assigned
PDCH(s)

transfering

Note: For state definition (idle, ack.2ph waiting,....) see Erreur! Source du renvoi introuvable.
Figure 43 two phase access, UL TBF establishment, nominal case, on CCCH
5.5.2.1.1.3 TBF establishment initiated by the MS during a downlink data block transfer
The MS may request establishment of an UL transfer during a DL TBF by including a channel
request description information in the PACKET DL ACK/NACK message (time-slots requested,
priority, RLC mode, LLC frame type, octets of RLC data)
UL resources are allocated to the MS by returning a PACKET UL ASSIGNMENT message on
PACCH, containing USF value(s) and UL TAI (different from DL TAI).

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5.5.2.1.2 Downlink TBF establishment

5.5.2.1.2.1 TBF establishment initiated by the network on PCCCH

The purpose of network initiated TBF establishment is to establish a TBF to support the transfer of
LLC PDUs in the direction from the network to the MS (downlink).
The procedure is triggered, in the MFS, when receiving a LLC PDU to a MS not already having any
DL assigned radio resources (paging has been performed previously, by SGSN, but no context is
kept in the MFS).
The allocated radio resource (may be assigned on one or more PDCHs) is assigned to the MS in a
PACKET DL ASSIGNMENT message, sent on PCCCH (or PACCH, if an UL TBF is already
established for this MS).
As timing advance value is not provided in the PACKET DL ASSIGNMENT message, the poll bit is
set to receive from the MS a PACKET CONTROL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT as four access bursts,
(the CONTROL_ACK_TYPE parameter in the SYSTEM INFORMATION indicates acknowledgement
in access bursts).
On PACKET CONTROL ACK, the timing advance is calculated and forwarded to the MS with an
TIMING ADVANCE/POWER CONTROL message.
MS

BTS

MFS

idle
LLC PDU
resource
allocation

Packet DL assignment
(polling) (TFI, TAI)

(PPCH)
Packet control ACK
(PACCH)
switch on
assigned
PDCH(s)

assigning
timing
advance
calculation

Timing advance/power control

(TFI) (PACCH)

RLC/MAC PDU (TFI)

transfering

Note: For state definition (idle, assigning,....) see Erreur! Source du renvoi introuvable.
Figure 44 DL TBF establishment, nominal case, on PCCCH

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5.5.2.1.2.2 TBF establishment initiated by the network on CCCH

In this case, a channel assignment message is sent on CCCH, through GSL interface, to assign the
PACCH slot.
Then a packet DL assignment, with a polling indication, is forwarded via GCH interface to ask for a
PACKET CONTROL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, in order to calculate the timing adavance.
This second assignment is also necessary since it is impossible to assign a multi-slot TBF on CCCH
channel.
MS

BTS

BSC

MFS

idle
LLC PDU
resource
allocation

switch on
assigned PDCH

channel assignment
(TFI, TAI)
wait

(PCH)

timer
(T_dl_assign
_ccch)

Packet DL assignment (polling). (TFI, TAI)

Packet control ACK
assigning

(PACCH)

(PACCH)

timing
advance
calculation

Timing advance/power control (TFI)

transfering

Note: For state definition (idle, assigning,....) see Erreur! Source du renvoi introuvable.
Figure 45 DL TBF establishment, nominal case, on CCCH

5.5.2.1.2.3 TBF establishment initiated by the network during an uplink data block transfer
During UL transfer, the MFS may initiate a DL TBF by sending a PACKET DL ASSIGNMENT
message to the MS on the PACCH.

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5.5.2.1.3 Radio resource allocation

The different cases of radio resource allocation are shown in the following table:
Radio resource allocation
1 UL radio block, without TAI nor USF

Multiple UL radio blocks with TAI and USF

Multiple DL radio blocks with TAI

Corresponding case
Packet Channel request (2 phase access on
CCCH or PCCCH)
This radio block will be used by the MS to send a
Packet Resource request
- UL 1 phase access on CCCH or PCCCH
- UL access during a DL transfer
- Packet Resource request handling (2 phase
access)
DL transfer

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5.5.2.2 Packet radio resource allocation

The maximum number of PDCHs granted to a MS depends on its multi-slot class.
A mobile class determines the multislot configuration which can be used by the MS.
The MS constraints are the following:
- MS type (whether the MS is able to transmit and receive simultaneously)
- type1: simplex MS
- type2: duplex MS
- maximum number of receive timeslots per TDMA frame.
- maximum number of transmit timeslots per TDMA frame.
- maximum number of transmit and receive timeslots per TDMA frame
- minimum time (in timeslots) between the different windows (receive, transmit,
measurement windows)
All MS classes are supported with the following limitations, in B6.2:
- type1 MS are limited to 2 UL slots and 4 DL slots
- type 2 MS are limited to 5+5 configuration
- allocations with hole between slots of the same direction are not supported
Furthermore, an O&M parameter (MAX_PDCH_PER_TBF) may limit the number of PDCHs
allocated to a TBF.
With dynamic allocation (USF), an UL transfer requires symetric capabilities (the MS has to listen all
the allocated PDCHs for USF reading).
That means that simplex MS may only be granted a configuration of class 1 (1 DL TS + 1 UL TS) or
class 5 ( 2 DL TS + 2 UL TS) (see the figure below)

DL

Rx

Rx

Mx

Ttb

UL

- Rx:
- Tx:
- Ttb:
the
- Tra:

Tra
Tx

Tx

DL slot
UL slot
minimum number of slots between the end of the last previous transmit or receive slot and
first next transmit
minimum number of slots between the previous transmit or receive slot and the next receive
slot when measurement (Mx) is to be performed between

(These values are defined in GSM 05.02, annex B, for each multi-slot class)
(for more details, see also [14])
Figure 46 class 5, symetric configuration

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A DL transfer doesnt require symetric capabilities.

One slot is used on UL path to carry the PACCH of the DL TBF (DL RLC data blocks carrying a
polling request shall be sent over the PACCH slot).
The allocation strategy consists to maximise the usage of the allocated PDCHs and, if necessary, to
require additional PDCH(s) to the BSC.
5.5.2.3 Allocation on PDCH
The maximum number of TBFs per PDCH is limited by the following parameters:
- 16 TAI values are available per PDCH
- 6 USF values are available for UL traffic on GPRS master PDCH
- 7 USF values are available for UL traffic on GPRS non-master PDCH
- 32 TBF per cell
O&M parameters define thresholds used to invoke allocation of new PDCH:
- An O&M constant defines the max. number of TBFs per PDCH (N_TBF_PER_PDCH)
- An O&M constant defines the max. number of TBFs per MPDCH (N_TBF_PER_MASTER)

5.5.2.4 Cell handling

Cell availability for GPRS traffic depends on the following indications:
- BSC indications
- administrative state
- GCH availability
- Gb interface state
5.5.2.5 PDCH release
When a cell becomes unavailable for GPRS traffic (e.g. following either an O&M command or a Gb
failure), PDCH release messages are sent to all the MSs of the cell which are involved in a data
transfer, before releasing the PDCH.
On reception, the MS shall immediately stop transmitting.
5.5.2.6 QoS

5.5.2.6.1 Radio QoS

The radio QoS is the QoS granted on the radio interface to transfer LLC PDUs.
The radio QoS is defined by the following parameters:
- throughput
- service precedence
- RLC reliability mode
- BSS transfer delay

5.5.2.6.2 Throughput
Throughput indication is given:
- DL, in the requested throughput field of DL BSSGP PDUs
- UL, in the peak-throughput-class field of the Packet Resource request message (i.e. this
information is known by the network only in a 2 phase access)
In B6.2, the throughput information is only taken into account, UL, for NS load-sharing.
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A MS is granted as many PDCHs, as supported by its multislot class, furthermore O&M data defines
the maximum number of PDCHs allocated to a TBF.
The PDCH throughput is equally shared between all MSs to which this PDCH has been allocated.
The multislot class information is given:
- DL, in DL BSSGP PDUs
- UL, only in the following cases:
- Packet Resource request, on PACCH
- One phase access, on PRACH
- TBF establishment requested through Packet DL ACK/NACK
(in the other cases, the MS is considered as a monoslot MS)

5.5.2.6.3 Service precedence

Precedence indication is given:
- DL, in the precedence field of DL BSSGP PDUs
- UL, in the priority field of the Packet Channel request message (1/2 phase access, short
access, 11 bits format only)
This information is not taken into account, in step1, neither for TBF establishment nor for TBF preemption.
This information is only used by the persistence level.

5.5.2.6.4 RLC reliability mode

RLC offers 2 transmission modes:
- acknowledged mode
- unacknowledged mode
RLC mode indication is given:
- DL, in DL BSSGP PDUs
- UL, in the Packet Resource request message (2 phase access)
When the indication cannot be given, the following rules are applied:
- 1 phase access:
acknowledged mode
- single block access (for 2 phase access):
unacknowledged mode
- short access:
acknowledged mode
- Page response/cell update/MM procedure:
acknowledged mode

5.5.2.6.5 BSS transfer delay

BSS transfer delay information, is given, DL, through PDU life time, provided by DL BSSGP PDUs.
When PDU life time expires, the LLC PDU is deleted.
In case of DL TBF unavailability, requests are queued and served according to their PDU life time.

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5.5.3 RLC functions

5.5.3.1 Acknowledged mode operation
The transfer of RLC data blocks in the RLC acknowledged mode uses retransmissions of RLC data
blocks.
The transmitting side numbers the RLC data blocks via the Block Sequence Number (BSN) for
retransmission and reassembly.
The receiving side sends PACKET UPLINK ACK/NACK or PACKET DOWNLINK ACK/NACK
messages in order to request retransmission of RLC data blocks.
5.5.3.2 Unacknowledged mode operation
The transfer of RLC data blocks in the RLC unacknowledged mode does not include any
retransmissions.
The BSN is used to number the blocks for reassembly.
The receiving side sends PACKET ACK/NACK messages in order to convey the necessary other
control signalling messages while the fields for requesting retransmission are not used.
5.5.3.3 Segmentation of LLC-PDUs into RLC data blocks
Each received LLC PDU shall be segmented into RLC data blocks.
If the contents of an LLC PDU do not fill an integer number of RLC data blocks, the beginning of the
next LLC PDU shall be placed within the final RLC data block of the first LLC PDU with no padding
between the end of the first LLC PDU and the beginning of the next.
If the final LLC PDU in the TBF does not fill an integer number of RLC data blocks, filler octets shall
be used to fill the remainder of the RLC data block.
5.5.3.4 Re-assembly of LLC PDUs from RLC data blocks
RLC data blocks shall be collected at the receiver until all RLC data blocks comprising an LLC PDU
have been received.
During RLC acknowledged mode operation, received LLC PDUs shall be delivered to the higher
layer in the order in which they were originally transmitted.
During RLC unacknowledged mode operation, received LLC PDUs shall be delivered to the higher
layer in the order they are received.
5.5.3.5 Uplink TBF release
In this direction, only MS initiated release is implemented.
The MS initiates the release of the TBF by beginning the countdown process ( a countdown value is
sent in each RLC data block to indicate to the MFS the absolute Block Sequence Number of the last
RLC data block).
5.5.3.6 Downlink TBF release
The release can be triggered either by the MFS or the MS.

5.5.3.6.1 MFS initiated release

The MFS initiates the release of a DL TBF by sending an RLC data block with the Final Bit Indicator
(FBI) set.

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5.5.3.6.2 MS initiated release

The MS can initiate a DL TBF release by setting the TBF_release_bit in the Packet DL ACK/NACK
message and in all subsequent Packet DL ACK/NACK message, until the TBF is released.

5.5.4 MAC functions

5.5.4.1 PDCH multiplexing
Each PDCH is a shared medium between multiple MSs and the network.
It consists of asymmetric and independent uplink an downlink channels.

5.5.4.1.1 Downlink
The DL, from the MFS to multiple MSs, does not require contention arbitration.
Different logical channels share the same PDCH:
- PBCCH
It is mapped on 1 to 4 blocks (B0, B6, B3, B9).
The number of blocks (BS_PBCCH_BLKS) is broadcast on PBCCH in B0, which always exists, in
case of GPRS master channel.
- PDTCH and PACCH
The scheduling is based on the use of the TFI to address individually all the MSs engaged in a traffic
exchange.
Each MS monitors its assigned PDCHs and filters out the received blocks based on the TFI, which is
contained in the RLC header.
- PCCCH (PAGCH, PPCH)
The PCCCH, PDTCH and PACCH can be mapped dynamically, by the MFS and are identified by the
message header.
The configuration is partly fixed by some parameters broadcast by the PBCCH:
- BS_PBCCH_BLKS:
number of PBCCH blocks
- BS_PAG_BLKS_RES:
number of blocks not used for PBCCH or PPCH.
It corresponds to the number of blocks for PAGCH, PDTCH and PACCH.
The MS shall attempt to decode every DL RLC/MAC block on all assigned PDCHs.
Whenever the MS receives an RLC/MAC block containing an RLC control block, the MS shall
attempt to interpret the message therein. If the message addresses the MS (the identity of the MS is
a specific field of the control message according to its type, e.g UL TFI in Packet UL ACK/NACK) ,
the MS shall act on the message.

5.5.4.1.2 Uplink
The UL is shared among multiple MSs and requires contention control procedures.
Multiplexing is handled by dynamic allocation medium access mode, in GPRS step1.
The medium access mode the MS is to use is signalled in the Packet UL Assignment.

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Different logical channels share the same PDCH:

- PDTCH/PACCH related to one MS handling an UL packet transfer
The allocation mechanism is based on a token (USF: Uplink Status Flag) distributed by the MFS,
allowing the sharing of the UL resource between different MSs which are involved in UL packet
transfer, on the same PDCH.
All these MSs having received one USF value in the Packet UL Assignment, listen to the USF sent,
by the MFS, in all DL blocks. When the decoded USF, in DL block Bn, matches the USF allocated to
the MS, by the MFS, the MS gets the right to transmit one RLC/MAC block in UL block Bn+1.
- PRACH used by MSs for packet access request
A MS which wants to initiate a packet access procedure, has to send a Packet Channel Request, on
PRACH.
With this aim, the MS has to listen DL PDCH to denote a specific USF value (FREE) denoting
PRACH.
A FREE USF value in a DL block Bn, means that UL block Bn+1 is a PRACH.
- PACCH related to one MS handling DL packet transfer
Another value (no emission) is used to authorize one MS, without USF, to transfer in the UL direction
(e.g. MS involved in a DL packet transfer)
A MS involved in a DL packet transfer shall attempt to decode every DL RLC/MAC block on the
assigned PDCH, carrying the PACCH.
Whenever a MS receives a RLC data block addressed to itself and with a valid RRBP field
(scheduling an UL block) in the MAC data block header, the MS shall transmit a Packet DL
ACK/NACK. (except at the end of a DL transfer, in unacknowledged mode!!)
Whenever a MS receives a RLC control block addressed to itself and with a valid RRBP field in the
MAC data block header, the MS shall transmit a Packet Control ACK.
The RRBP field contained in DL block Bn specifies a single UL block in which the MS shall transmit.
The UL block can be either Bn+2, Bn+3, Bn+4 or Bn+5.
Consistency between USF and RRBP indications shall be ensured.
In Figure 47, an example is detailed.
allocation
indications

uplink PDCH
PDTCHi

USFi

PACCHi
PDTCHj
USFj
PACCHj
PRACH

USF=FREE

PACCHk

USF= no emission
+ RRBP

Figure 47 Logical channels on uplink PDCH and multiplexing indications

- PACCHk is related to a MS involved in a DL packet transfer
- USFi is allocated to MSi, for UL packet transfer
- USFj is allocated to MSj, for UL packet transfer
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The following table shows an example of UL scheduling:

- DL Bn has its USF equal to USFi, that means MSi transfer will be allowed in UL Bn+1.
- DL Bn+1 has its USF equal to USFj, that means MSj transfer will be allowed in UL Bn+2.
Furthermore, this DL block is addressed to MSk and the RRBP indication is set (+3), which
means that MSk has to send a Packet DL ACK/NACK in UL Bn+4 (Bn+1 + 3)
- DL Bn+2 has its USF equal to FREE. It means that UL Bn+3 is a PRACH.
- DL Bn+3 has its USF equal to no emission. It means that UL Bn+4 has already been
scheduled by the RRBP mechanism.
downlink
block number
Bn
Bn+1
Bn+2
Bn+3
Bn+4
Bn+5
Bn+6

USF
USFi
USFj
FREE
no emission
USFi
USFj

uplink
RRBP
false
+3
false
false
false
false

MSi
MSj
PRACH
PACCHk
MSi
MSj

Note: During the establishment of an UL TBF, on CCCH, with 2 phase access, another mechanism
is used (see Figure 43). One block (Bx) is assigned, thanks to the TBF starting time parameter of
the immediate assignment message.
DL Bx-1 block shall have its USF value equal to no emission.
5.5.4.2 Polling mechanism
This mechanism is used by the MFS to request a response from the MS.
It is based on the RRBP mechanism which allocates a block for this response.
It is used for different purposes:
- to require a Packet Control ACK either to measure initial timing advance or to acknowledge
a
control message.
Particularly, the MS will be requested to send a Packet Control Acknowledgement upon
receipt of any Packet Assignment, in order to allocate radio blocks, to this TBF, only when
the
acknowledgement is received, to optimize the radio resources usage.
- to require blocks acknowledgement in DL transfer, in acknowledged mode
- to allocate an UL PACCH block, during DL transfer in unacknowledged mode.
The different cases are summarized in the following table:
DL message received by the
MS
RLC/MAC control block

UL message forwarded by
the MS
Packet control ACK

RLC/MAC data block

- acknowledged mode
- or unacknowledged
(FBI=0)
RLC/MAC data block
unacknowledged
(FBI=1)

Packet DL ACK/NACK

FBI:

usage
- initial timing advance measure
or
message
control
acknowledgement
- DL transfer acknowledgement
- or UL PACCH block allocation

mode
Packet control ACK
mode

- end
transfer

of

unacknowledged

Final Block Indicator (=1: last block of the transfer)

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6. GB INTERFACE
The Gb interface connects the BSS and the SGSN, allowing the exchange of signalling information
and user data.
GPRS signalling and user data are sent in the same transmission plane.
MFS

SGSN

Gb
interface

BSSGP

BSSGP

NS (NSC)

NS (NSC)

NS (SNS)

NS (SNS)
FR
network

L1

L1

Figure 48 Gb interface

6.1 Protocol layers

6.1.1 Link layer

The Gb interface link layer is based on Frame Relay (FR). Frame relay virtual circuits are
established between SGSN and BSS. LLC PDUs from many users are multiplexed on these virtual
circuits.
The virtual circuits may be multi-hop and traverse a network of frame relay switching nodes.
Frame relay core functions are implemented (DL-CORE protocol defined in Q922, Annex A) enabling
the sending/reception of frame relay unacknowledged frames.

6.1.2 Network Service layer

see [4]
The NS entity is composed of 2 sub-layers:
- the NSC (Network Service Control), independent from the intermediate transmission
network
used on the Gb interface
It is responsible for the following functions:
- NS PDU transfer between BSS and SGSN
(PDU order is kept, except under exceptional circumstances)
- load-sharing
- NS-VC management
- the SNS (Sub-Network Service), dependent on the intermediate transmission network
It provides access to the intermediate network.
Failure detections are reported to NSC.

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In this phase of GPRS, the intermediate transmission network is Frame Relay (FR). Only FR
Permanent Virtual Connections are used, which are statically configured by O&M.
Point to point SGSN-MFS connections constitute a particular case of simplified transmission
network.
Unacknowledged mode is used between the MFS and the SGSN.

6.1.3 BSSGP layer

(see [5])
The primary function of BSSGP is to convey LLC PDUs and GPRS MM signalling.
In the BSS, it acts as an interface between LLC frames and RLC/MAC blocks.
In the SGSN, it forms an interface between RLC/MAC-derived information and LLC frames.
The main functions for the BSSGP protocol are to:
- provide a connectionless link between the SGSN and the MFS
- transfer data unconfirmed between the SGSN and the MFS
- provide tools for DL data flow control between the SGSN and the MFS
- handle paging requests from the SGSN to the MFS
- give support for flushing of old messages in the MFS (e. g. when an MS changes BSS)

6.2 Addressing
(see Figure 49 and Figure 50)

6.2.1 Permanent Virtual Channel (PVC)

A Frame Relay PVC allows the service of multiplexing on a Bearer Channel.
Each PVC is associated with one NS-VC.
At MFS, a PVC is identified by its Data Link Connection Identifier (DLCI), which is independent of the
one defined at SGSN side.
There is a dedicated DLCI (DLCI=0) used by the FR to support signalling functions (it is not a PVC).

6.2.2 Bearer Channel (BC)

A BC is a nx64 kbit/s channel on a 2048 kbit/s link and supports a set of PVCs.

6.2.3 Network Service Virtual Connection (NS-VC)

In order to provide end-to-end communication between the MFS and the SGSN irrespective of the
exact configuration of the Gb interface, the concept of NS-VC is used.
The peer-to-peer communication between remote NSC user entities is performed over NS-VCs.
NS-VCs are end-to-end virtual connections between the MFS and the SGSN.
Each NS-VC is identified by means of a NSVCI having end-to-end significance across the Gb
interface.
NS-VCs are statically configured by O&M.
In GPRS step1, there is a one to one mapping between one NS-VC and one FR PVC.
In step1, only one NS-VC (PVC) per BC.

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6.2.4 Network Service Entity (NSE)

The NSC provides a communication service to NS user peer entities (NSE).
One group of NS-VCs is configured between 2 peer NSEs, by administrative means.
The Network Service Entity Identifier (NSEI) is an end-to-end identifier and shall be unique within a
SGSN.
At each side of the Gb interface, there is a one-to-one correspondence between a group of NS-VCs
and a NSEI.
A NSE is associated to a set of BVCs.
The NSE maps a set of BVCs on a set of NS-VCs.
In Alcatel implementation, a NSE is defined as the connection of one BSS to one GPU.
(in step1: one NSE corresponds to one BSS).

6.2.5 BSSGP Virtual Connection (BVC)

A BVC is a virtual end-to-end path between BSSGP peer entities.
A BVC is identified by a BVCI which is unique in one NSE and has an end-to-end significance across
the Gb interface.
there are two types of BVCs, in B6.2:
- Point-To-Point (PTP) BVC devoted to the GPRS traffic of one cell (BVCI>1)
- signalling BVC, which is the signalling circuit of all the BVC-PTPs of one NSE (BVCI=0)
(BVCI = 1, is reserved for PTM: Point To Multipoint)
In the BSS, BVCIs are statically configured, by administrative means.
At the SGSN side, BVCIs associated with PTP functional entities are dynamically configured, BVCIs
associated with signalling functional entities are statically configured.
The BVCI together with the NSEI uniquely identifies a BVC within a SGSN.
The BVCI and NSEI are used on the NS-SAP for layer-to-layer communication.

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BSS
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RRM

cells

BVC

BSSGP

NSE

NSE
NS-VC

NSC

PVC
SNS

Bearer channel

BVCI0, used for signalling

Figure 49 Addressing concepts in the MFS

Note: Only one NS-VC per bearer channel, in step1

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At MFS: Cells and

BVC-PTPs related to
BSC#1

SGSN
NSEI=1
Load sharing

Bearer
Channel=3

Bearer
Channel=1

Cell id2 BVCI=2

NSVCI=3
DLCI=34

NSVCI=1
DLCI=16

Cell id8 BVCI=3

Cell id3

Cell id9

NSVCI=2
DLCI=23

NSVCI=2
DLCI=23
Frame
Relay
network

BVCI=4

Bearer
Channel=2

BVCI=5

BVCI=2

BVCI=3

BVCI=4
NSVCI=1
DLCI=98
BVCI=5

NSVCI=3
DLCI=17

Cell id7

BVCI=6

BVCI=6

Figure 50 Addressing concepts on Gb interface

Note: Only one NS-VC per bearer channel, in step1

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6.3 NS functionalities
(see [4])

6.3.1 Load sharing function

The load sharing function distributes the NS-PDU traffic among the unblocked NS-VCs of the same
NSE.
The NS-VC selection is based on the LSP value.
At one side of the Gb interface, all BSSGP UNITDATA PDUs related to an MS shall be passed with
the same LSP, to the underlying network service.
The LSPs used at the MFS and SGSN for the same MS may be set to different values.
Thus, the load sharing function guarantees that for each BVC, the order of all NS-PDUs marked with
the same LSP value is preserved.
At the data transfer establishment (see Figure 51), the BSSGP layer sends a NS-UNITDATA-req
primitive to the NS layer with the following information:
- NSEI
- BVCI
- LSP (Link Selector Parameter)
- bit rate
A set of NS-VCs is associated to each NSEI.
Among these NS-VCs, one is chosen which is able to provide the requested bit rate.
The following relationship is established: NSEI, BVCI, LSP --> NS-VC.
All the following NS-UNITDATA-req with the same NSEI, BVCI,LSP identification will use the same
NS-VC.
The previous relationship is withdrawn, at the end of the data transfer, on TRN-STOP-req primitive
reception, from the upper layer (see Figure 52).

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Procedure load_sharing

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routing
procedure
access to
routing table
(BVCIb, LSPc)

triggered on NS-UNITDATA-req
reception
(NSEIa, BVCIb, LSPc, bit rat e)

N
access to the
NSEIa
NS-VCs list
according t o the
request ed bit rat e

a list of NS-VCs
is associated to NSEIa

Does the identif ication

(NSEIa, BVCIb, LSPc)
exists in the routing table?

NS-VC choice

relationship
NSEIa, BVCIb, LSPc --> NS-VC
is registered in the routing table

(BVCIb,
LSPc)?

registration in
the routing
table
NS PDU is routed on the NS-VC
given by the routing table

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Figure 51 NS routing (routing relationship creation)

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end of
transf er
access to
routing table
(BVCIy, LSPz)
suppression in
the routing
table

Figure 52 NS routing (roting relationship deletion)

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triggered on TRN-STOP-req
reception
(NSEIx, BVCIy, LSPz)

relationship
NSEIx, BVCIy, LSPz --> NS-VC
is withdrawn from the routing table

2(2)

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6.3.2 NS-VC management function

6.3.2.1 Blocking/Unblocking of an NS-VC
When a NS-VC becomes locally unavailable either at the MFS or at the SGSN, the remote NS entity
shall be informed by means of a blocking procedure.
A NS-VC may be blocked, because of:
- O&M command (administrative state = locked)
- equipment failure (operational state = disabled)
- test procedure failure (operational state = disabled)
When a NS-VC becomes available again, the NS entity which initiated the blocking procedure (or the
reset procedure) informs the remote NS entity by means of an unblocking procedure.
NS
entity

NS
entity

NS-BLOCK
NS-BLOCK-ACK

Note: These PDUs are sent on any enabled NS-VC belonging to the same NSE
Figure 53 NS-VC Blocking procedure
NS
entity

NS
entity

NS-UNBLOCK
NS-UNBLOCK-ACK

Note: These PDUs are sent on any enabled NS-VC belonging to the same NSE
Figure 54 NS-VC Unblocking procedure

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6.3.2.2 Reset procedure

The reset procedure is used when a new NS-VC is set-up, after processor restart, after failure
recovery, or when its state is undetermined.
Upon completion of the reset procedure, the NS-VC is blocked and its operational state is
enabled.

NS
entity

NS
entity

NS-RESET
NS-RESET-ACK

Note: These PDUs are sent on the NS-VC being reset

Figure 55 NS-VC Reset procedure
6.3.2.3 NS-VC Test procedure
This procedure is used to check that end-to-end communication exists between peer NS entities, on
a given NS-VC.
This procedure is initialised upon successful completion of the reset procedure and shall be then
periodically repeated.
When the procedure is successful, the operational state is enabled otherwise it is disabled and the
NS-VC becomes blocked.

NS
entity

NS
entity

NS-ALIVE
NS-ALIVE-ACK

Note: These PDUs are sent on the NS-VC being tested

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6.4 BSS GPRS Protocol (BSSGP) functionalities

(see [5])
The service model is the following:
- RL (ReLay) and BSSGP for functions controlling the transfer of LLC frames
- GMM (GPRS Mobility Management) for functions associated with mobility management
between an SGSN and a BSS.
- NM (Network Management) for functions associated with Gb interface and BSS-SGSN
node management.
MFS

SGSN

LLC
RL

NM

GMM
NM

RRM

GMM

BSSGP

BSSGP

BSSGP

NS

NS

RLC
MAC

Figure 56 BSSGP service model

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6.4.1 Data transfer procedures between RL and BSSGP SAPs

Data transfer is performed in an unacknowledged mode.
There is one LLC PDU per BSSGP PDU.
MFS
RL SAP

SGSN
BSSGP SAP
DL-UNITDATA
UL-UNITDATA

Figure 57 data PDUs

6.4.1.1 DL UNITDATA procedure
DL UNITDATA PDUs contain PDU life-time information element which is used by the
RRM/RLC/MAC function, for radio resource scheduling on the MS-network interface.
6.4.1.2 UL UNITDATA procedure
LSP (TLLI), BVCI, NSEI and QoS profile information (requested throughput) is used for load sharing
at NS layer level.

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6.4.2 Signalling procedures between GMM SAPs

MFS
GMM SAP

SGSN
GMM SAP
PAGING-CS
PAGING-PS
RADIO-STATUS

acknowledgement

Figure 58 signalling PDUs between GMM SAPs

All these PDUs are unacknowledged.
6.4.2.1 Paging

6.4.2.1.1 CS paging
When instructed by the MSC/VLR to initiate circuit-switched transmission between the MSC and a
MS, the SGSN shall send a PAGING CS PDU to the MFS. (network operation mode I)
6.4.2.1.2 PS paging
When wishing to initiate packet-switched transmission between an SGSN and MS, an SGSN shall
send a Paging PS PDU to the MFS.
6.4.2.2 Radio status procedure
The RADIO-STATUS PDU indicates bad conditions on the radio interface.
This PDU has the following parameters:
- TLLI or TMSI or IMSI
- radio cause (radio contact lost with the MS, radio link quality insufficient, ...)

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MFS
NM SAP

SGSN
NM SAP
FLUSH-LL
LLC-DISCARDED
BVC-FLOW-CONTROL

MS-FLOW-CONTROL

BVC-BLOCK

BVC-UNBLOCK

BVC-RESET

STATUS

acknowledgement

Figure 59 Signalling PDUs between NM SAPs

6.4.3.1 FLUSH-LL procedure
The SGSN sends a FLUSH-LL to MFS to ensure that LLC-PDUs queued at a cell for an MS are
deleted.
The parameters are : TLLI and BVCI.
This PDU is acknowledged.

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6.4.3.2 LLC-DISCARD procedure

The MFS sends a LLC-DISCARDED PDU to SGSN, when a local LLC-PDU deletion has been
performed (e.g. following a PDU life-time expiry)
The parameters are: TLLI and number of frames discarded.
6.4.3.3 Flow control procedure
Only downlink flow control is performed (from the MFS to the SGSN)
This flow control applies on the 2 following entities:
- the cell (i.e. one BVCI)
by means of FLOW-CONTROL-BVC PDU which has the following parameters:
- tag (reference to be returned in the acknowledgement)
- BVC throughput indication
- BVC measurement (not used in B6.2)
describes average queuing delay for a BVC
A FLOW-CONTROL-BVC-ACK, containing the field tag acknowledges the previous PDU.
- the MS (i.e. TLLI)
by means of FLOW-CONTROL-MS PDU which has the following parameters:
- TLLI
- tag
- MS throughput indication
A FLOW-CONTROL-MS-ACK, containing the field tag acknowledges the previous PDU.
The MFS uses flow control to adjust the flow of BSSGP UNITDATA PDU to its buffers.
This flow control is triggered by RRM/RLC/MAC layer (see 8.2.2.2).
BSSGP UNITDATA PDUs queued within the MFS that are not transferred across the radio interface
before the PDU life time expires shall be deleted and the SGSN shall be notified by a LLCDISCARDED PDU.
6.4.3.4 BVC blocking and unblocking procedure
The BVC blocking and unblocking procedures are initiated by the MFS to remove from use, or bring
into use, a BVC
The MFS may block a BVC because of:
- O&M blocking for intervention purpose (O&M request)
- equipment failure at the BSS (RRM request)
- cell equipment failure at the BSS (RRM request)
To block a BVC, the MFS shall send a BVC-BLOCK PDU with BVCI and cause as parameters.
This PDU has to be acknowledged (BVC-BLOCK-ACK, with BVCI as parameter).
To unblock a BVC, the MFS sends a BVC-UNBLOCK PDU with BVCI indication.
This PDU has to be acknowledged with BVCI indication.

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A BVC-RESET procedure is used to synchronise BVC states between the MFS and the SGSN.
This procedure may be initiated either by the MFS or the SGSN, on the following events:
- BVC creation
- processor recovery
- underlying network recovery
- ....
After performing a BVC-RESET procedure, the affected BVC is assumed to be in the unblocked
state in the SGSN. So the MFS has to initiate a block procedure if the affected BVC is marked
blocked in the MFS.
The BVC-RESET PDU has the following parameters:
- BVCI
- cause
This PDU has to be acknowledged by a BVC-RESET-ACK PDU with the BVCI indication.
MFS

SGSN

RESET

unblocked

O&M
blocking
or
failure

O&M
unblocking
or
recovery

(1):

BVC-UNBLOCK
or
RESET

BVC-BLOCK

RESET
(1)

blocked

unblocked

blocked

In this case, a block procedure has to be initiated

Figure 60 BVC state transitions in the MFS and SGSN

6.4.3.5 Status
When an exception condition occurs (e.g. BVCI unknown, BVCI blocked, ...) either in the MFS or the
SGSN, a STATUS PDU is sent to the peer entity.
This PDU has the following parameters:
-cause
- PDU in error
This PDU is not acknowledged.

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7. O&M INTERFACE

7.1 Interface modelisation

Telecom layer - O&M interface is of type manager-agent, where The O&M is the manager and the
telecom layer the agent.
This interface can be modeled through entity classes (by analogy with object classes).
These classes can be instanciated.
An entity class is defined by:
- attributes
- operations which can be performed on the class
- CREATE (to create an entity instance)
- DELETE (to delete an entity instance)
- GET (to read attribute values)
- SET (to set attribute values)
- ACTION (to perform specific actions on the entity)
- behaviour
- notifications may be forwarded, on certain circonstances
(e.g. state change)
(Alarms are a specific type of notifications)
O&M

operations
notifications
attributes

Telecom
layer

entity

Figure 61 O&M interface modelisation

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7.2 Managed entities, in the MFS

Note: In this paragraph, distinction between RRM, RLC and MAC is not taken into account.
In the MFS, the following entity classes are managed, by O&M:
- L2-GCH:
- GCH class (only one instance to model the layer)
- BSCGP:
- GSL class
A GSL is one 64 kbit/s LAPD link, between BSC and MFS.
- BSCGP class (only one instance to model the layer)
- RRM:
- CELL class
GSM cell
- Gic_Group class
A Gic_Group is a set of AterC circuits (64 Kbit/s circuits), which can be used for GPRS traffic
and which are carried by the same PCM
- BSS class
- RRM class (only one instance to model the layer)
- RLC class (only one instance to model the layer)
- MAC class (only one instance to model the layer)

- BSSGP:
- BVC-PTP class
One BVC-PTP represents the GPRS traffic of one cell on Gb interface
It is managed, by O&M, through the cell entity.
- BVC-SIG class
One BVC-SIG represents, on Gb interface, signalling related to one NSE (i.e. a couple GPUBSS, in B6.2, one BSS is handled by only one GPU).
It is managed, by O&M, through the BSS entity.
- BSSGP class (only one instance to model the layer)

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- NSC:
- NSVC class
Traffic of one NSE is shared between NSVCs, on Gb interface.
There is a one to one mapping between NSVC and PVC.
- NSC class (only one instance to model the layer)
- SNS:
- PVC class
One PVC is a frame relay Permanent Virtual Channel mapped on a bearer channel, on Gb
interface.
- BC class
One BC is a Bearer Channel on the Gb interface.
- SNS class (only one instance to model the layer)

GPU

BVC_
SIG

BSS

BC

2
Gic_
Group

GSL

cell

BVC_
PTP

NSVC

PVC

1 to 1 association
1 to n association

Figure 62 Entity relationship diagram

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7.2.1 GSL entity

The GSL entity class is managed by BSCGP.
GSL instances are created by O&M.
When the 2 GSLs, towards one BSC are disabled, RRM is notified (NTM-BSC-state-change-ind)
The GSL entity class has the following attributes:
- GICid (circuit identity to support the GSL)
BSCGP

LM-GSL-create-req
LM-GSL-delete-req
O&M

GSL
L2GSL

dl-establich-req
dl-release-req

NTM-BSC-State-ind

RRM

NTM-BSC-Reset-ind/req

dl-release-ind
dl-establish-ind
acknowledgement

Figure 63 BSCGP interfaces, related to GSL entity

The interface with L2GSL is used to handle the LAPD link supporting the GSL.

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7.2.2 BSS entity

The BSS entity class is managed by RRM.
BSS instances are created by O&M.
The BSS entity class has the following attributes:
- BSSid
- network operation mode
- operational state
- administrative state
- availabilty status
- dependency (BVC-SIG not operational)
- off-line (BSCGP indication)
NTM-BSC-State-ind

LM-BSS-create-req
LM-BSS-delete-req
LM-BSS-SET-req

NTM-BSC-State-req

BSCGP

RRM

O&M

NTM-BSC-Reset-ind/req
LM-BSS-State-change-ind
BSS

NM-BVC-SIG-CREATE-req
NM-BVC-SIG-DELETE-req

NM-BVC-SIG-START-req
NM-BVC-SIG-STOP-req

BSSGP
BVC-SIG

NM-BVC-SIG-T-STATUS-ind

Figure 64 RRM interfaces, related to BSS entity

The possible state combinations are the following:
operational state
disabled
disabled
enabled

availability status
dependency
off-line
0

administrative state
locked/unlocked
locked/unlocked
locked/unlocked

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7.2.3 Gic group entity

The Gic group entity class is managed by RRM.
Gic group instances are created by O&M.
The Gic group entity class has the following attributes:
- Gic group id.
- list of AterC circuits which are defined with:
- AterC id. (identification on the Ater interface, 64kbit/s time-slot within the Gic group)
- Atermux id. (identification on the AterMux interface: PCM, Time-Slot, nibble)
- BSS id
- operational state (read only attribute)
LM-Gic-Group-create-req
LM-Gic-Group-delete-req
LM-Gic-Group-GET-req

NTM-GICGROUP-State-req

O&M

BSCGP NTM-GICGROUP-state-ind

NTM-BSC-reset-ind

RRM

LM-Gic-Group-state-change-ind

GIC
Group

Figure 65 RRM interfaces, related to Gic-group entity

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7.2.4 Cell entity

The Cell entity class is managed by RRM
Cell instances are created by O&M.
A cell instance is associated to a BVC instance which is managed by BSSGP, so synchronisation is
requested between these 2 instances.
The cell entity class has the following attributes:
- cell id
- BSC id.
- MIN_PDCH_Group
- MAX_PDCH_Group
- MAX_PDCH_HIGH_LOAD
- MIN_MPDCH
- MAX_MPDCH
- telecom parameters
- adjacent cell parameters
- administrative state
- operational state
- availability status
RRM

LM-CELL-create-req
LM-CELL-delete-req
O&M

LM-CELL-state-change
cell
BSC
(via
BSCGP)

BSSGP

NM-BVC-PTP-CREATE-req
NM-BVC-PTP-DELETE-req

NM-BVC-PTP-START-req
NM-BVC-PTP-STOP-req
BVC-PTP

NTM-CELL state-ind
NM-BVC-PTP-T-STATUS-ind
NTM-CELL state-req
NTM-CELL start/stop-req

NTM-CELL-Detach-req

NTM-CELL-Detach-ind

Figure 66 RRM interfaces, related to Cell entity

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operational state
disabled

availability status
off-line

administrative state
locked/unlocked

disabled

dependency

locked/unlocked

disabled
disabled
enabled

off-line + dependency
failed
0

locked/unlocked
unlocked
locked/unlocked

comments
BSCGP unavailability
indication
BVC-PTP
unavailability
MFS internal failure

7.2.5 BVC-PTP entity

The BVC entity class is managed by BSSGP.
BVC instances are created by RRM.
Its status has 2 components:
- operational/not operational
- operational:
a BVC-PTP RESET has been successfully performed
- not operational:
the BVC-PTP RESET procedure has not been performed
- started/stopped
- started:
RRM has requested a start of the BVC-PTP
- stopped:
RRM has stopped the BVC-PTP or has not yet started the
BVC-PTP

RRM

SGSN
(via NS)

BSSGP

BVC-BLOCK
BVC-UNBLOCK
NM-BVC-PTP-CREATE-req
NM-BVC-PTP-DELETE-req
BVC-RESET
NM-BVC-PTP-START-req
NM-BVC-PTP-STOP-req

BVC-PTP

Cell
NM-BVC-PTP-T-STATUS-ind

Figure 67 BSSGP interfaces, related to BVC-PTP entity

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7.2.6 BVC-SIG entity

The BVC-SIG entity class is managed by BSSGP.
BVC-SIG instances are created by RRM.
Its status has 2 components:
- operational/not operational
- operational:
the NSE, at NS level, is available
- not operational:
the NSE, at NS level, is not available
- started/stopped
- started:
RRM has requested a start of the BVC-SIG
- stopped:
RRM has stopped the BVC-SIG or has not yet started the
BVC-SIG

NM-BVC-SIG-CREATE-req
NM-BVC-SIG-DELETE-req

TRN-CONNECT-req
TRN-DECONNECT-req

RRM
NM-BVC-SIG-START-req
NM-BVC-SIG-STOP-req

NM-BVC-SIG-T-STATUS-ind

NSC

BSSGP

BVC-SIG

TRN-NSE-Start-req
TRN-NSE-Stop-req

TRN-NSE-Capacity-ind

BVC-RESET

SGSN
(via NS)

Figure 68 BSSGP interfaces, related to BVC-SIG entity

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7.2.7 NSVC entity

The NSVC entity class is managed by NSC.
NSVC instances are created by O&M.
The NSVC entity class has the following attributes:
- NSVC id
- NSEi
- commited capacity (comited rate)
- excess capacity
- priority (for load-sharing)
- administrative state (locked, unlocked)
- operational state (read only attribute)
- availability status (depends on SNS indications, related to the corresponding PVC
operational state)
- off-line:
blocked by the peer
- dependency: PVC disabled
- failed:
Reset on-going

O&M

LM-NSVC-create-req
LM-NSVC-delete-req
LM-NSVC-SET-req
(administrative state)

LM-NSVC-statechange-ind
LM-NSVC-ERRCONF-ind

SGSN
(via SNS)

NSC

NS-ALIVE
NS-BLOCK
NS-UNBLOCK
NS-RESET
NSVC
SNS
TRN-FAILURE-ind
TRN-AVAILABLE-ind

Figure 69 NSC interfaces, related to NSVC entity

TRN-FAILURE-ind is sent when a PVC becomes unavailable.
TRN-AVAILABLE-ind is sent when a PVC becomes available.
The possible state combinations are the following:

operational state
disabled
disabled
disabled
enabled

availability status
off-line
dependency
failed
0

administrative state
locked/unlocked
locked/unlocked
locked/unlocked
locked/unlocked

comments
blocked by the peer
PVC disabled
reset on-going

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7.2.8 PVC entity

The PVC entity class is managed by SNS.
PVC instances are created by O&M.
The PVC entity class has the following attributes:
- PVC id
- DLCI (identifier for the frame relay network)
- BC id (Bearer Channel supporting the PVC)
- NSVC id (one to one association with one NSVC instance)
- CIR (Commited Burst Size)
- EBS (Excess Burst Size)
- AR (Access Rate)
- operational state (read only attribute)
- cause (to precise the operational state)
- deleted by network
- unknown in network
- inactive in network
- new in network
SNS

O&M

Network
(FR)

LM-PVC-create-req
LM-PVC-delete-req

LM-PVC-statechange-ind

STATUS
PVC

Availability Bit
New Bit

NSC

TRN-FAILURE-ind
TRN-AVAILABLE-ind

Figure 70 SNS interfaces, related to PVC entity

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7.2.9 BC entity
The BC entity class is managed by SNS.
BC instances are created by O&M.
The BC entity class has the following attributes:
- BC id
- PCMI (PCM Identifier)
- TS conf ( Time Slot configuration)
- NTS (Number of Time Slots)
- active DLCI (list of the active DLCI on this BC)
- unknown DLCI (list of DLCI configured locally and unknown from the network)
- not-configured DLCI (list of DLCI unknown locally and presented by the network)
- operational state (read only attribute)
- cause
- no reply from the network
- loopback detected
- invalid network behaviour
- physical link error
SNS

O&M

Network
(FR)

LM-BC-create-req
LM-BC-delete-req
BC
STATUS ENQUIRY
LM-BC-state-change-ind

Figure 71 SNS interfaces, related to BC entity

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7.3 Telecom layer initilisation

It is O&M responsibility to synchronise the initialisations of the different telecom layers.
To initialise a telecom layer, O&M sends a CREATE related to the layer entity with all the parameters
which are necessary to the telecom layer (e.g. timer values). The telecom layer performs its
initialisation then acknowledges O&M which is thus able to schedule the whole initialisation phase.

7.4 Performance management

Performance counters are related to a monitored entity class. (each monitored entity instance
having its counters)
For performance management purposes, 2 counter types are defined (see ITU-X721):
- counter
A counter is regarded as associated with some event. The current value is incremented by 1 when
this event occurs.
A counter shall be reset at the end of the granularity period.
A threshold may be associated.

counter
value

qualityOfService
alarm report

threshold
c

time
granularity
period
c: counter value collected at the
end of the first granularity period

Figure 72 counter type characteristics

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- gauge
The gauge is the management abstraction of the value of a dynamic variable, such as the number of
connections currently operated by a protocol machine.
The value of the gauge is subject to change in either direction.
A threshold may be associated and a hysteresis mechanism has to be provided to avoid the repeated
triggering of event notifications when the gauge makes small oscillations around a threshold value.
A tide-mark may be associated. It records the maximum or minimum value reached by a gauge
during a measurement period.

gauge
value

qualityOfService
alarm report

threshold

time
granularity
period
lower tide-mark value, at the end of
the granularity period
upper tide-mark value, at the end of
the granularity period

Figure 73 gauge type characteristics

Note: Only these raw counters are implemented at telecom layer level, ( CPU run-time has not to be
wasted at this level, and more complex counters could be operator dependant), which means, for
example, that:
- average counters should be implemented with 2 counters at protocol level:
- for percentage, for example: one counter for specific events and another one for all
the events. The percentage counter elaboration should be O&M responsability (or
OMC-R?)
- time during which an entity is available or unavailable should be calculated by O&M, from
state change notifications.

7.4.1 Counters creation

Counters are automatically created when the monitored entity instance is created.
This monitored instance is created either by O&M or by the telecom layer. In the last case O&M has
to be notified, to take into account the created entity and its associated counters.

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7.4.2 Counters deletion

Counters are deleted when the monitored entity instance is deleted.
This monitored instance is deleted either by O&M or by telecom layer. In the last case O&M has to
be notified, (current counter values are sent).

7.4.3 Counter periodical retrieval

O&M is responsible for periodical counter retrieval, according to the granularity period (GET
operation or a more sophisticated operation allowing, for example, to freeze all the counter values at
the very same instant, to have coherent results and then to read them before the next granularity
period occurence).
After this retrieval, counters are reset to zero (gauges are not reset)

7.4.4 Threshold handling

In telecom layers, after each counter incrementation, the value of the counter is compared with an
associated threshold (if any).
Threshold values are modifiable, on a counter/gauge class basis.
If the counter value reaches the threshold, a qualityofService alarm report is forwarded to O&M.

7.4.5 Tide-mark handling

A upper or/and a lower tide-mark may be associated to a gauge.
At the beginning of the granularity period, tide-mark values are equal to the gauge value, then at
each gauge value variation, tide-mark values are compared with the gauge value:
- if upper tide-mark < gauge, then upper tide-mark = gauge
- if lower tide-mark > gauge, then lower tide-mark = gauge
Tide-mark values are collected on granularity period periodicity.

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8. GPRS SCENARIOS
The purpose of this paragraph is to present some GPRS scenarios

8.1 Paging for downlink packet transfer

MFS handles PS paging in the 3 network operation modes.
An MS in STAND-BY state is paged by the SGSN before a DL transfer to that MS.
The MS can either be addressed with TLLI or IMSI.
The paging procedure shall move the MM state to READY to allow the SGSN to forward DL data to
the radio resource.
Any data from the MS will be considered as a valid response to paging and will move the SGSN
context to READY state.
The SGSN supervises the paging procedure with a timer.
Note: the following numbers are related to Figure 74 and Figure 75.
1. The SGSN receives a downlink PDP PDU for an MS in STANDBY state
2. A GMM-PAGING-req is sent to SGSN BSSGP layer with the following parameters:
- BVCI or LA or RA or BSS area
- IMSI (in order to calculate the MS paging group)
- [DRX parameters]
- QoS profile
- [P-TMSI]
and a PAGING-PS BSSGP PDU is sent to MFS.
3. A PACKET PAGING REQUEST (RLC/MAC control message) is sent to MSs on PCH or PPCH.
4. In order to answer to SGSN (with a LLC PDU), the MS shall establish an UL TBF, using a
PACKET CHANNEL REQUEST; with cause value of page response, on (P)RACH
5. A PACKET UPLINK ASSIGNMENT is returned to the MS, on (P)AGCH.
6. The response to SGSN is sent in the UL allocated TBF.
7. Upon reception of the LLC PDU (implicit paging response), the SGSN stops the paging response
timer and
8. starts the downlink transfer towards the MSs cell (BVCI), by sending a BSSGP DL-UNITDATA
which will trigger, in the MFS, a DL TBF establishment.

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8.1.1 PCCCH utilization

BTS

MS

BSC

MFS

SGSN
PDP (1)
stand-by
Paging PS (2)

Packet paging request (3)

(PPCH)
(PRACH)

supervision

Packet channel request (4)

timer

(PAGCH)
Packet uplink assignment (5)
LLC PDU (6)

UL TBF
(7)
Ready
(8)
DL-UNITDATA

Figure 74 Paging MSC, with PCCCH

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8.1.2 CCCH utilization

BTS

MS

BSC

MFS

SGSN
stand-by
PDP (1)
Paging PS (2)

PS Paging
Paging command
(PCH) (3)
(RACH) (4)

supervision

channel request

timer

immediate assignment (5)

(AGCH)
UL TBF
LLC-PDU (6)
(7)

ready
(8)
DL-UNITDATA

Figure 75 Paging MSC, with CCCH

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8.2 Packet data transfer

8.2.1 Definitions
The X200 rules are applied:
N layer

N-1 layer

N-PDU

N-1 PCI

N-1 SDU

N-1 PDU

PDU:
SDU:
PCI:

Protocol Data Unit

Service Data Unit
Protocol Control Information

Figure 76 Data unit mapping between adjacent layers (without segmentation)

N layer

N-PDU

N-1 layer

N-1 PCI

N-1 PDU

N-1 SDU

N-1 PDU

Figure 77 Data unit mapping between adjacent layers (with segmentation)

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8.2.2 Packet data downlink transfer

A packet data downlink transfer has to be preceded by a paging procedure as shown on the following
figure.

MS

MFS

SGSN

STAND-BY
PDP PDU
PAGING PS
Packet Paging request
UL TBF establishment procedure
(paging response)
LLC PDU

READY
DL packet data transfer procedure

Figure 78 Packet data downlink transfer

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8.2.2.1 PDU mapping

This paragraph indicates the mapping between data units in the different layers for a downlink
transfer.
L3-PDU

L3-PDU
LLC-PDU

LLC

relay

RLC-PDU

RLC
MAC
GSM-RF

radio
block

relay
GSM-RF

BTS

Um

BSSGP-PDU

RLC
GCH
PDU

L2-GCH

L1-GCH

MS

LLC

MAC
L2-GCH

NS

NS-PDU

NS

L1-GCH

L1bis

FR PDU

L1bis

GCH
frame
Abis/Ater

BSSGP

BSSGP

MFS

Gb

SGSN

Figure 79 downlink PDU flow in the BSS

8.2.2.1.1 LLC PDU

address
field

L3 PDU
information field

control
field

FCS

- address field
- PD: protocol discriminator (LLC protocol or different protocol)
- C/R: (command/response)
- SAPI (GPRS MM, QoS priority level 1, level 2, level 3, level 4, SMS)
SAPI identifies a point at which LLC services are provided by a LLE (Logical Link
Entity) to a layer-3 entity.
- control field
4 types of control field formats are specified:
- confirmed information transfer (I format)
- supervisory functions (S format)
- unconfirmed information transfer (UI format)
- control functions (U format)
- information field (140 octets min., 1520 octets max.) (L3-PDU)
- FCS (Frame Check Sequence)
It is a Cyclic Redundancy Check code which is used to detect bit errors in the header and
information fields of the LLC PDU.

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8.2.2.1.2 - BSSGP PDU

LLC PDU
information field

header

- BSSGP header
- PDU type (DL-UNITDATA)
- TLLI (current)
- QoS profile
- bit rate ( 0 to 6 553 500 bit/s)
The 0 value means best effort
- precedence ( high/normal/low priority)
- A-bit (acknowledged or unacknowledged RLC mode)
- T-bit (LLC-PDU contains signalling (e.g. related to GMM) or data)
- PDU lifetime (PDU life time inside the BSS)
- MS radio access capability
- [priority] (priority of the PDU)
- [DRX parameters] (SPLIT_PG_CYCLE code, non-DRX timer)
- [IMSI]
- [TLLI (old)]

8.2.2.1.3 NS PDU

PDU type

BSSGP PDU
information field

BVCI

(NSUNITDATA)

8.2.2.1.4 FR PDU

synchroni
sation
flag

NS PDU
information field

header

FCS

- synchronisation flag
All frames shall start and end with a flag sequence equal to 01111110.
The closing flag may also serve as the opening flag of the next frame.
- header
- DLCI (Data Link Control Identifier)
- FECN (Forwarded Explicit Congestion Notification)
may be set by a congested network to notify the user that congestion avoidance
procedures should be initiated where applicable for traffic in the direction of
the frame
carrying the FECN indication.
- BECN (Backward Explicit Congestion Notification)
may be set by a congested network to notify the user that congestion avoidance
procedures should be initiated where applicable for traffic in the opposite
direction of
the frame carrying the FECN indication.
- FCS (Frame Check sequence)
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8.2.2.1.5 RLC/MAC PDU

MAC
header

RLC
header

RLC data

spare bits

- MAC header
- payload type (RLC data block)
- RRBP (relative Reserved Block Period)
- S/P (Supplementary/polling) (RRBP valid or not)
- USF (Uplink State Flag)
- RLC header
- TFI (Temporary Flow Identifier)
identifies the TBF (Temporary Block Flow) to which the RLC data block belongs
- BSN (Block Sequence Number)
sequence number of each RLC data block within the TBF
- FBI (Final Block Indicator)
indicates that the DL RLC data block is the last RLC data block of the DL TBF.
- PR (Power Reduction) indicates the power level reduction of the next RLC blocks in
the PDCH, relative to the BCCH level.
- RLC data
Each LLC PDU shall be segmented into RLC data blocks.
A RLC data block may contain octets from one or more LLC PDUs.
The size of RLC data will depend on the coding scheme which will be applied on the
radio interface:
- CS1: 20 octets
- CS2: 30 octets
- CS3: 36 octets (not in step1)
- CS4: 50 octets (not in step1)

- spare bits
The size of this field depends on the coding scheme:
- CS1: 0
- CS2: 7 bits
- CS3: 3 bits (not in step1)
- CS4: 7 bits (not in step1)

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8.2.2.1.6 GCH PDU

RLC/MAC PDU
information field

header

- GCH header
- GCH PDU type (traffic)
- DL block number
- coding scheme
- uplink burst (normal burst, access burst, no burst)
- BS_TXPWR (BTS emission relative power)
- CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check)
- RLC/MAC PDU
- CS1: 184 bits
- CS2: 271 bits

8.2.2.1.7 GCH frame

synchroni
sation
pattern
note:

GCH PDU
information field

There are 2 GCH frame formats:

- TRAU format for FUMO BTS
- GCH format for other BTS
(see [11] for more details)

8.2.2.1.8 radio block

RLC/MAC PDU
information field

BCS

4 radio bursts
- RLC/MAC PDU coded according to the coding scheme
- Block Check Sequence (BCS)

8.2.2.1.9 radio burst

radio burst time-slot

<------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------->
tail
bits
(3)

encripted
(58)

bits

training
sequence (26)

encripted
(58)

bits

tail
bits
(3)

guard
period

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8.2.2.1.10 Communication between layers

The following table gives
- the primitives used to transfer data between adjacent layers
- the main parameters exchanged with these primitives
communication
between
adjacent layers
LLC --> BSSGP
(SGSN)

primitives

BSSGP-DL-UNITDATA-req

main parameters

BSSGP --> NS
(SGSN)

NS-UNITDATA-req

NS --> FR
(SGSN)
FR --> NS
(MFS)
NS --> BSSGP
(MFS)
BSSGP --> RLC/MAC
(MFS)

DL-CORE-DATA-req

- NSEI
- BVCI
- LSP
-TLLI
- QoS
- PDU life time
- radio access capability
- DRX parameters
- NSEI
- BVCI
- LSP
- DLCI

DL-CORE-DATA-ind

- DLCI

NS-UNITDATA-ind

RLC/MAC --> L2-GCH

(MFS)

L2-GCH-UNITDATA-req

L2-GCH --> GSM-RF

(BTS)

L2-GCH-UNITDATA-ind

- NSEI
- BVCI
- cell id.
- TLLI
- QoS
- PDU life time
- radio access capability
- DRX parameters
- PDCHid
- DL block number
- uplink burst
- coding scheme
- BS-TXPWR
- PDCHid
- DL block number
- uplink burst
- coding scheme
- BS-TXPWR

RL-DL-UNITDATA-ind

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8.2.2.2 Downlink flow control

DL flow control is performed on 2 entities:
- cell (BVC)
- and MS
For these 2 entities, bit rate information and average queuing delay , per BVC, are sent to the SGSN,
for flow control purpose.
LLC-PDU
MFS
RRM/RLC/
MAC

MFS
BSSGP

FLOW-CONTROL-MS

SSGN
BSSGP

FLOW-CONTROL-MS

MS
flow
control

FLOW-CONTROL-BVC

BVC
flow
control

MS

FLOW-CONTROL-BVC

cell

BVC
LLC-PDU

BSSGP-PDU

Figure 80 Downlink flow control

The BSS sends to the SGSN flow control parameters which allow the SGSN to locally control its
transmission output in the BSS direction.
Downlink flow control (FLOW-CONTROL-MS/BVC towards SGSN) is initiated at RRM layer level on
the following information (see Figure 81):
- at cell creation time the cell throughput is forwarded to the SGSN
- On each received DL LLC-PDU, flow control mechanisms are performed on a MS basis
then
on a cell (BVC) basis.
RLC layer can notify a congestion on a MS basis (when a TBF transmission queue reaches an upper
limit) or for the whole DSP (on memory overload).
The first notification will stop MS LLC-PDU at RRM layer level and the second one will stop LLCPDU for the cells reached by this DSP.
Of course as these notifications stop LLC-PDUs, they will have consequences on RRM flow control
mechanisms.

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MS
flow control

LLC-PDU
FLOW-CONTROL-MS

RRM

LLC-PDU
BVC
flow control

available
PDCH
capacity

FLOW-CONTROL-BVC

LLC-PDU
flow
control
ind.

BSSGP

threshold

flow
control
ind.

DSP

emission
queue

RLC

Figure 81 Downlink flow control triggers

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8.2.3 Packet data uplink transfer

8.2.3.1 PDU mapping
L3-PDU

L3-PDU
LLC-PDU

LLC
RLC-PDU

RLC
MAC
GSM-RF

radio
block

relay
GSM-RF

MS

L2-GCH

BTS

Um

BSSGP-PDU

RLC
GCH
PDU

L1-GCH

LLC
relay
MAC
L2-GCH

NS

NS-PDU

NS

L1-GCH

L1bis

FR PDU

L1bis

GCH
frame
Abis/Ater

BSSGP

BSSGP

MFS

Gb

SGSN

Figure 82 Uplink PDU flow, in the BSS

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8.2.3.1.1 LLC PDU

address
field

L3 PDU
information field

control
field

FCS

- address field
- PD: protocol discriminator (LLC protocol or different protocol)
- C/R: (command/response)
- SAPI (GPRS MM, QoS priority level 1, level 2, level 3, level 4, SMS)
SAPI identifies a point at which LLC services are provided by a LLE (Logical Link
Entity) to a layer-3 entity.
- control field
4 types of control field formats are specified:
- confirmed information transfer (I format)
- supervisory functions (S format)
- unconfirmed information transfer (UI format)
- control functions (U format)
- information field (140 octets min., 1520 octets max.) (L3-PDU)
- FCS (Frame Check Sequence)
It is a Cyclic Redundancy Check code which is used to detect bit errors in the header and
information fields of the LLC PDU.

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8.2.3.1.2 RLC/MAC PDU

MAC
header

[TLLI]

RLC
header

information field

spare bits

- MAC header
- payload type (RLC data block)
- countdown value
allows the MFS to calculate the number of RLC data blocks remaining for the
current UL TBF
- SI (Stall Indicator)
indicates whether the transmit window can (or cannot) advance
- R (Retry)
indicates whether the MS transmitted the Packet Channel request one time or more
during its most recent channel access
- RLC header
- TFI (Temporary Flow Identifier)
identies the TBF (Temporary Block Flow) to which the RLC data block belongs
- BSN (Block Sequence Number)
sequence number of each RLC data block within the TBF
- TI (TLLI Indicator)
indicates the presence of an optional TLLI field within the RRLC/MAC PDU
- RLC data
Each RLC data block may contain octets from one or more LLC PDUs.
The size of RLC data will depend on the coding scheme which will be applied on the
radio interface:
- CS1: 20 octets
- CS2: 30 octets
- CS3: 36 octets (not in step1)
- CS4: 50 octets (not in step1)
- spare bits
The size of this field depends on the coding scheme:
- CS1: 0
- CS2: 7 bits
- CS3: 3 bits (not in step1)
- CS4: 7 bits (not in step1)

8.2.3.1.3 radio block

RLC/MAC PDU
information field

BCS

4 radio bursts
- RLC/MAC PDU coded according to the coding scheme
- Block Check Sequence (BCS)
- radio burst (see 8.2.2.1.9)
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8.2.3.1.4 GCH frame

synchroni
sation
pattern
note:

GCH PDU
information field

There are 2 GCH frame formats:

- TRAU format for FUMO BTS
- GCH format for other BTS
(see [11] for more details)

8.2.3.1.5 GCH PDU

RLC/MAC PDU
information field

header

- GCH header
- GCH PDU type (traffic)
- UL block number
- block number error (to correct clock drifts between radio and GCH interfaces)
- coding scheme (CS1/CS2)
- RXQUAL (reception quality measured, by the BTS, on the radio interface)
- RXLEV (reception level measured, by the BTS, on the radio interface)
- CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check)
- RLC/MAC PDU
- CS1: 184 bits
- CS2: 271 bits

8.2.3.1.6 - BSSGP PDU

LLC PDU
information field

header

- BSSGP header (14 to 36 octets)

- PDU type (UL-UNITDATA)
- TLLI
- QoS profile
- bit rate ( 0 to 6 553 500 bit/s)
The 0 value means best effort
- precedence ( high/normal/low priority)
- A-bit (acknowledged or unacknowledged RLC mode)
- T-bit (LLC-PDU contains signalling (e.g. related to GMM) or data)
- cell identifier

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8.2.3.1.7 NS PDU

PDU type

BSSGP PDU
information field

BVCI

(NSUNITDATA)

8.2.3.1.8 FR PDU

synchroni
sation
flag

NS PDU
information field

header

FCS

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8.2.3.1.9 Communication between layers

The following table gives
- the primitive used to transfer data between adjacent layers
- the main parameters exchanged with this primitive
communication
between
adjacent layers
GSM-RF --> L2-GCH
(BTS)

primitives

L2-GCH-UNITDATA-req

main parameters

L2-GCH --> RLC/MAC

(MFS)

L2-GCH-UNITDATA-ind

RLC/MAC --> BSSGP

(MFS)

RL-UL-UNITDATA-req

BSSGP --> NS
(MFS)

NS-UNITDATA-req

NS --> FR
(MFS)
FR --> NS
(SGSN)
NS --> BSSGP
(SGSN)
BSSGP --> LLC
(SGSN)

DL-CORE-DATA-req

- PDCHid
- UL block number
- block number error
- coding scheme
- RXQUAL
- RXLEV
- PDCHid
- UL block number
- coding scheme
- RXQUAL
- RXLEV
- BVCI
- NSEI
- TLLI
- QoS
- cell identifier
- BVCI
- NSEI
- LSP
- throughput indication
- precedence
- DLCI

DL-CORE-DATA-ind

- DLCI

NS-UNITDATA-ind

- BVCI
- NSEI
- NSEI
- BVCI
- TLLI
- QoS
- cell identifier

BSSGP-UL-UNITDATA-ind

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8.2.3.2 Uplink flow control

The purpose of this function is to adapt UL flow, according to Gb throughput and Gb congestion
state.
8.2.3.2.1 NSE capacity bandwidth adaptation
NSE throughput, on Gb interface is notified by BSSGP, with the following parameters:
- NSE availability bandwidth (taking into account the throughput of the available NSVCs)
- NSE maximum bandwidth (taking into account the throughput of all the existing NSVCs)
In case of NSE capacity bandwidth reduction the following procedure is activated, if enabled by an
O&M parameter:
- The maximum number of available GCHs within the BSS is reduced from the percentage of
loss of bandwidth at Gb side.
- Ongoing traffic is not impacted (i.e. the number of active PDCHs is not reduced even if it is
greater than the number of GCHs allowed due to the NSE capacity bandwith reduction)

8.2.3.2.2 NSE congestion indication

A congestion situation is detected at PVC level by 2 means:
- emission queue monitoring
- BECN indication received from the FR network.
This congestion is notified to RRM, when all operational NS-VCs belonging to the same NSE are
congested. The following parameters are given:
- action (start/stop)
- level 1 (only one level in B6.2)
- NSE available bandwidth (current capacity of the NSE)
- NSE maximum bandwidth (maximum capacity of the NSE)
In case of NSE congestion, the following procedure is undertaken, if enabled by an O&M parameter:
- RRM stops the UL data traffic on one PDCH in each cell of the BSS where there is ongoing data traffic (by means of PDCH Release messages)
- The MFS does not allocate any new PDCH in the BSS
- This procedure is restarted periodically if the Gb congestion is still present.

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8.3 Autonomous cell reselection

When a cell reselection is autonomously determined by the MS (NC0), the MS may continue its
operation in the old serving cell, while acquiring certain system information for the target cell.
The operation in the old cell shall be aborted when one of the following conditions are met:
- the MS station starts to receive information on PBCCH, in the target cell
- the MS has received the SI13 message and there is no PBCCH present in the target cell
- the criterions for camping on the old cell are no longer fulfilled.
While the operation is maintained in the old cell, the MS may suspend its TBF in order to receive
necessary information on BCCH in the target cell.
It is performed without notification to the network.
Under no circumstances, operations in the old cell shall be continued more than 5s after a cell
reselection has been determined
When a new cell has been selected, the MS shall perform a complete acquisition of (P)BCCH
messages.
If there is a MPDCH, the MS shall not perform packet access in the selected cell until it has acquired
the PSI1 message, a consistent set of PSI2 messages and made at least one attempt to receive the
complete set of PSI messages.
If there is no MPDCH, the MS shall not perform packet access in the selected cell until it has
acquired the SI3, SI13 and if present the SI1 messages and made at least one attempt to receive
other SI messages that may be scheduled within one TC cycle on BCCH.

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8.4 Cell reselection during an UL transfer

Below is descibed, a reselection from cell A to cell B, during an UL TBF.
(1):

(P)SI information is acquired

(2):

When the operation in the old cell is aborted (i.e. the UL TBF is aborted), the MFS receives
no more messages in the UL blocks scheduled for this MS by the USF mechanism.
N3101 is incremented in the MFS for each radio block allocated to that MS for which no data
is received. When N3101 reaches N3101 max (default value = 16), radio resource
scheduling
is stopped and T3169 is activated (USF and TFI values are frozen until T3169
expiry).
(3):

When (P)SI information has been acquired, an UL TBF is established in the new cell.

(4):
adds

The SGSN is informed of the cell change, when receiving a LLC PDU, in which the MFS
the cell identifier.

MS

MFS

UL TBF (cell A)

(1)

(P)SI
acquisition
(3)

SGSN

UL LLC PDU (TLLI, cell A id.)

(2)

UL TBF establishment (cell B)

RLC/MAC data block (TLLI)
UL LLC PDU (TLLI, cell B id.)

(4)

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8.5 Cell reselection during a DL transfer

Below is descibed, a reselection from cell A to cell B, during a DL TBF.

(1):

(P)SI information is acquired

(2):

When the operation in the old cell is aborted (i.e. the DL TBF is aborted), the MFS receives
no more acknowledgement from the MS, so an abnormal release is undertaken.

(3):

When (P)SI information has been acquired, an UL TBF is established in the new cell. in
order to send a cell update to the SGSN.

(4):

When receiving the new cell location, the SGSN sends a FLUSH to discard DL LLC PDUs
buffered for the MS in the old cell.

(5):

The SGSN resumes the DL transfer by sending a DL LLC PDU which will trigger a DL TBF
establishment in the new cell.
MS

MFS

DL LLC PDU (cell A)

DL TBF (cell A)

(1)

(P)SI
acquisition
(3)

SGSN

(2)

UL TBF establishment (cell B)

RLC/MAC data block (TLLI)
UL LLC PDU (TLLI, cell B id.)
FLUSH

(4)

FLUSH ACK
DL TBF establishment (cell B)

DL LLC PDU (cell B)

(5)

RLC/MAC data block

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9. TELECOM FUNCTIONAL BLOCKS

In the different telecom layers, functions have been split into 5 functional blocks:
- Packet Connection Control (PCC)
It is in charge of establishing, maintaining, releasing packet connections (e.g. Temporary
Block Flow) for uplink or downlink paths.
- Packet Radio resource Handling (PRH)
It is in charge of controlling admission of packet connections and allocating them radio
resources, by means of dynamic establishment or release of GPRS physical channels. It is
also responsible for monitoring the packet generated load on common channel, resulting in
dynamic allocation of master PDCH channels and control of usage of Packet Access
channels. Finally it is in charge of the packet system information messages definition
- PAGing (PAG)
It is in charge of addressing paging requests (circuit switched or packet switched) received
from SGSN.
- TRaNsport (TRN)
It transfers signalling and LLC PDUs between MS and SGSN.
- NeTwork Management (NTM)
It implements the telecom parts of network management functions:
- transmission resources management
- initialisation
- performance monitoring
telecom
layer
n+1

O&M

NTM

PCC

PRH

PAG

TRN

telecom
layer
n

telecom
layer
n-1
telecom layer Service Access Point

Figure 83 telecom functional blocks

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10. GLOSSARY
BC
BCCH
BCS
BECN
BSC
BSCGP
BSN
BSS
BSSAP
BTS
BVCI
CCCH
CCU
CS
CS paging
DL
DLCI
DSP
FBI
FCS
FEC
FECN
FR
FSM
GCH
GGSN
GMM
GPRS
GPU
GSL
GSM-RF
IMSI
LA
LAI
LLC
LSP
MAC
MAP
MFS
MPDCH
MS
MSC
MTP2
MTP3
NM
NS
NSC
NSEI
NSS
NS-VCI
NS-VLI
NTM
PAGCH

Bearer Channel
Broadcast Control Channel
Block Check Sequence
Backward Explicit Congestion Notification
Base Station Controller
BSC GPRS Part
Block Sequence Number
Base Station System
Base Station System Application Part
Base Transceiver Station
BSSGP Virtual Connection Identifier
Common Control Channel
Channel CODEC Unit
Coding Scheme
Circuit Switched paging
DownLink
Data Link Control Identifier
Digital Signalling Processor
Final Block Indication
Frame Check Sequence
Forwarding Error Correction
Forwarded Explicit Congestion Notification
Frame Relay
Final State Machine
GPRS Channel
Gatway GPRS Support Node
GPRS Mobility Management
General Packet Radio Service
GPRS Processing Unit
GPRS Signalling Link
GSM Radio Frequency
Internatonal Mobile Subscriber Identity
Location Area
Location Area Identifier
Logical Link Control
Link Selector Parameter
Medium Access Control
Mobile Application Part
Multi Function Server
Master PDCH
Mobile Station
Mobile Switching Center
Message Transfer Part Layer 2
Message Transfer Part Layer 3
Network management
Network Service
Network Service Control
Network Service Entity Identifier
Network Sub-System
Network service - Virtual Connection Identifier
Network service - Virtual Link Identifier
NeTwork Management
Packet Access Grant Channel
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PAG
PACCH
PBCCH
PCC
PCCCH
PCI
PCU
PDCH
PDN
PDP
PDU
PDTCH
PLMN
PPCH
PRACH
PRH
PS paging
PSTN
PTCCH
PTM
PTM-G
PTM-M
PTP
PVC
RA
RAI
RL
RLC
RRBP
RR
RRM
RSL
SAP
SCCP
SDU
SGSN
SM
SNS
TA
TAI
TBF
TC
TCAP
TCH
TDMA
TFI
TLLI
TMSI
TRN
TRX
TS
UL
USF
VLR

PAGing
Packet Associated Control CHannel
Packet Broadcast Control Channel
Packet Connection Control
Packet Common Control Channel
Packet Control Information
Packet Control Unit
Packet Data Channel
Packet Data Network
Packet Data Protocol
Protocol Data Unit
Packet Data Traffic Channel
Public Land Mobile Network
Packet Paging Channel
Packet Random Access Channel
Packet Resource Handling
Packet Switched paging
Public Switched Telephone Network
Packet Timing Control Channel
Point To Multipoint
Point To Multipoint-Group
Point To Multipoint-Multicast
Point To Point
Permanent Virtual Channel
Routeing Area
Routeing Area Identifier
ReLay
Radio Link Control
Relative Reserved Block Period
Radio Resource
Radio Resource Management
Radio Signalling Link
Service Access Point
Signalling Connection Control Part
Service Data Unit
Serving GPRS Support Node
Session Management
Sub-Network Service
(initial) Timing Advance (value)
Timing Advance Index
Temporary Block Flow
TransCoder
Transaction Capabilities Application Part
Traffic CHannel
Time Division Multiple Access
Temporary Flow Identity
Temporary Logical Link Identity
Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity
TRaNsport
Transceiver
Time Slot
UpLink
Uplink Status Flag
Visitor Location register

END OF DOCUMENT
GPRS telecom presentation
ED

MCD

02

released
256_02.DOC
30/09/1999

3BK 11202 0256 DSZZA

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