The standards GPRS and EDGE significantly enhance the GSM standard for mobile communications by supporting packet-oriented data services with higher bit rates than currently possible. This enables transparent access to fixed packet data networks. While GPRS will provide data services prior to UMTS deployment, both GPRS and EDGE have the potential to complement 3G networks. Initially UMTS will only be available in areas with high subscriber density. With the availability of multi-mode terminals supporting both UMTS and GPRS/EDGE (GERAN), data services will be supported outside the UMTS coverage area by both GPRS and EDGE. Therefore packet data services based on GERAN are expected to play an important role in mobile communications far beyond 2010.

• Provides a detailed description of the architecture, protocols, applications and traffic performance of GPRS, EDGE and GERAN

• Presents the evolution of the architecture and protocols of GSM systems

• Includes GPRS traffic engineering and QoS issues

• Discusses existing and future applications that are likely to be utilized over the evolving GSM and 3G networks

• Features a unique collection of GPRS/EDGE traffic performance results for evolving network capabilities, protocol modes and various mobile applications

• Supplies an overview of potential mobile data applications and their traffic models including WWW, e-mail, WAP, MMS, Video and Audio Streaming, and Voice over IP

The GSM Evolution will appeal to all those wishing to gain a comprehensive knowledge of the GPRS/EDGE and GERAN communication principles, protocols and applications, and the traffic issues of cellular packet radio networks. Students and researchers as well as engineering professionals and technical staff will also find this volume a valuable resource.

Table of Contents

Preface.

Introduction.

Packet Data Support in GSM Networks.

Data Transmission in GPRS Networks.

GPRS Signaling.

EDGE and Evolution to GERAN.

Evolving Applications and Traffic Models for GPRS and 3G.

The (E)GPRS Simulator GPRSim.

Traffic Performance of GPRS and EGPRS.

Acronyms.

Bibliography.

Index.