Cellular location update using an intelligent network platform

Abstract

The principle behind Intelligent Networks (IN) is the separation of call and bearer control from service control. This enables the rapid introduction of new services, features and the ability to offer integrated service packages thereby reducing the reliance on switch manufacturers for the provision of new services. Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) is the accepted standard for mobile communications not only in Europe, but world wide. GSM is also one of the first networks with a standardised modularised approach to its architecture. This thesis presents an architecture to integrate GSM and IN networks enabling the provision of GSM mobility services from an IN platform. The approach is to move mobility provision and management functions within a GSM network to an IN platform, so providing mobility as an IN service rather than a GSM specific service. This proposal will enable the rapid creation of mobility based value added services. Furthermore the proposed IN - GSM integration scenario can be seen as an evolutionary step towards third generation mobile system UMTS. The approach taken is to transform existing GSM mobility procedures such that they can fit the IN Service Independent Building blocks (SIB) architecture, thereby coexisting with IN SIBs on a Service Control Point. The GSM switching and radio access network is retained to enable the maximum reuse of the existing system. The proposed project presents results from simulation studies carried out to compare the performance of the proposed architecture against the GSM network. Signalling protocol based simulations models were developed on VC# and MATLAB for both the proposed architecture. The GSM simulation model was analyzed based on mathematical principles and different KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) were monitored and evaluated. Finally the results were justified by mathematical implication and reasoning.