Training Solutions

Mastering GPRS and EDGE

General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) and Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution (EDGE) provide a cost-effective packet data solution for GSM wireless operators and users. This course presents a technical overview of these two important technologies. The network architecture, components, and basic operations of GPRS/EDGE networks are discussed in detail along with the radio network features designed to make efficient use of the limited radio spectrum. The core network and how it evolves from a GSM network is discussed in detail, including an investigation of the IP mobility solution within GPRS. Interface protocols such as Session Management (SM), GPRS Mobility Management (GMM), Medium Access Control (MAC) and Radio Link Control (RLC) are examined. The course concludes with an end-to-end scenario and a look at the future of GPRS/EDGE and how it will evolve toward UMTS.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the student will be able to:
• List the capabilities and limitations of GPRS and EDGE
• Sketch the network architecture and identify the air interface protocol enhancements of GPRS/EDGE
• Elaborate the adaptive coding and modulation and incremental redundancy of GPRS/EDGE
• Describe mechanisms of sharing resources (slots) among GPRS/EDGE users using MAC/RLC protocols
• Step through the mobility scenarios of GPRS/EDGE
• Specify the needs of interface protocols such as GMM/SM, SNDCP and LLC
• Step through a packet data session from a mobile

Intended Audience

This course is designed for individuals seeking an in-depth understanding of the GPRS and EDGE technologies and capabilities. The discussion of GPRS and EDGE is at a system level which makes it suitable for designers, system engineers and network planners.

Suggested Prerequisites

• Exploring GSM (Instructor Led)

Suggested Follow-up Training/Complementary Courses

• Mastering UMTS Radio Protocols and Signaling (Instructor Led)

Course Length

3 Days Instructor Led

Course Outlines / Knowledge Knuggets

1. Introduction
1.1. Motivation for GPRS and EDGE
1.2. Capabilities and limitations of GPRS and EDGE

2. Network Architecture
2.1. Network and protocol reference model
2.2. GPRS/EDGE handset capabilities
2.3. Role of the GGSN and SGSN
2.4. GPRS basic operations

3. GPRS and EDGE Radio Network
3.1. Physical layer operations
3.2. Error protection techniques
3.3. GMSK & 8PSK modulation
3.4. MCS & CS classes
3.5. Physical and logical channels

4. Managing Radio Resources
4.1. MAC - channel coordination (TBF, medium access modes)
4.2. RLC - Modes of operation
4.3. Incremental Redundancy (IR) in EDGE

5. Packet Data Review
5.1. Internet routing protocols
5.2. Role of IP, TCP and UDP

6. Gb (BSS-SGSN) Interface
6.1. BSSGP virtual circuits
6.2. Frame relay

7. Packet Network
7.1. GPRS attach
7.2. PDP context activation
7.3. Interface from SGSN to GGSN
7.4. Encapsulation and tunneling (GTP)

8. Services in GPRS/EDGE Networks
8.1. Enterprise and VPN applications
8.2. Service APN
8.3. Transparent and non-transparent access

9. GPRS Mobility and Roaming
9.1. Cell update and routing area update
9.2. Global roaming and GRX

10. GPRS Billing
10.1. CGF and billing coordination

11. End-to-end Scenarios
11.1. Concurrent GSM and GPRS services

12. Evolution to UMTS

CATALOG

Download our course catalog!

2010 Catalog,
pdf format (7.8 MB)