Training Solutions

Exploring GSM

A strong understanding of GSM technology and networks is helpful for anyone working in GSM or related (i.e., GPRS, EDGE and UMTS) areas. Exploring GSM provides this foundation by introducing GSM and explaining the history and unique qualities that established GSM as the leading global standard for wireless communications. Radio physical layer concepts can be presented at either a high level or in detail for individuals with a more technical background. This course addresses the major interfaces for messaging in the GSM network, and shows how network nodes coordinate mobility and call setup. The student will gain a good understanding of services commonly deployed in a GSM network. This course is completed with a view of GPRS and UMTS with an understanding of the GSM components in a UMTS network.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the student will be able to:
• List the basic concepts related to GSM networks
• Sketch the GSM network architecture and its components, including the Mobile, BTS, BSC, MSC, VLR, HLR, EIR, SM-SC, and CSE
• Describe the channel structure of GSM and list the logical channels of GSM
• Describe how user mobility is supported in GSM networks
• Identify and describe various signaling protocols used in GSM networks
• Step through various scenarios such as call delivery, security, and handover
• Walk through an end-to-end call in GSM networks
• Describe the evolution strategy for GSM operators

Intended Audience

This is a detailed technical course, primarily intended for a technical audience including those in system design, system integration and test, systems engineering, network engineering, operations, and support. This course is presented at a level suitable for individuals comfortable with basic wireless concepts who want to gain familiarity with all aspects of a GSM network.

Suggested Prerequisites

• Welcome to Wireless Networks (eLearning)

Suggested Follow-up Training/Complementary Courses

• Exploring GPRS and EDGE (Instructor Led)
• Exploring UMTS (WCDMA) (Instructor Led)

Course Length

2 day Instructor led

Course Outlines / Knowledge Knuggets

1. Introduction
1.1. History of wireless communications
1.2. Motivation for GSM
1.3. Current GSM status
1.4. Key characteristics of a GSM network

2. GSM Network Architecture
2.1. Overview of network components
2.2. Mobile Station
2.3. BSS (BTS/BSC)
2.4. Cell site configuration
2.5. MSC/VLR and HLR
2.6. SM-SC

3. GSM Radio/Physical Layer
3.1. Concept of radio channels
3.2. Time Slots, Frames, and Multiple Access
3.3. System Acquisition
3.4. Access and idle mode procedures
3.5. Traffic channel operations

4. GSM Signaling
4.1. Basics of SS7
4.2. GSM SS7 nodes
4.3. BSSAP (DTAP/BSSMAP)
4.4. SCCP
4.5. TCAP and MAP
4.6. ISUP

5. GSM Network Mobility and Call Processing
5.1. Attach and location update process
5.2. Mobile Calls
5.3. Handover
5.4. Security in GSM

6. GSM Services
6.1. Teleservices
6.2. Bearer services
6.3. Supplementary services
6.4. Short message
6.5. CAMEL and location services

7. Evolution of GSM – EGPRS & UMTS
7.1. GPRS/EDGE
7.2. UMTS

CATALOG

Download our course catalog!

2010 Catalog,
pdf format (7.8 MB)