GPRS is a packet based wireless communication service that offers data rates from 9.05 up to 171.2 Kbps and continuous connection to the Internet for mobile phone and computer users. GPRS is based on GSM communications and complements existing services such as circuit switched cellular phone connections and the Short Message Service (SMS). GPRS represents the bridge between 2G and 3G mobile telecommunications and is commonly referred to as 2.5G. Implementation of GPRS requires modification of the existing GSM networks in that GSM is a circuit switched technology while GPRS is packet oriented. GPRS enables packet data (the same as is used by an Ethernet LAN, WAN or the Internet) to be sent to and from a mobile station - e.g. mobile phone, PDA or Laptop. WAP and SMS can also be sent using GPRS and individuals working with GPRS need to learn and understand how the mobile stations, the air interface, network architecture, protocol structures and signalling procedures must be modified. GPRS offers much higher data rates than GSM and can be combined with 3G technologies such as EDGE to give even higher bit-rates. It offers many benefits for customers and network operators: such as volume (rather then time) dependent billing and more efficient use of network resources. Due to the worldwide delay in implementing 3G solutions such as CDMA and UMTS the demand for GPRS is still growing. GPRS Networks: Offers detailed information ranging from standards to practical implementation Answers 'how' and 'why' rather than just simply re-stating GPRS specifications Provides comprehensive coverage in a single volume Essential reading for all telecommunications project managers, field engineers, technical staff in network operator and manufacturing organisations, GPRS application and service developers, Datacoms/IT engineers. The comprehensive coverage also makes this a superb reference for students of computer science, telecommunications and electrical engineering.

This innovative new book, from leading industry experts Gunnar Heine and Holger Sagkob, puts a focus on GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) but also explains the alternative and complementary technologies HSCSD, EDGE, IS-136 HS. It teaches you how the packet data standard GPRS can help you to expand your network towards third generation, meeting the demands of the most-sophisticated mobile data applications. The book focuses on the specifics and procedures of the air-interface, while giving you a thorough understanding of IP related protocols and a detailed presentation of all the important protocol scenarios that you may encounter in GPRS and HSCSD. Other discussions include an introduction to GSM and TDMA, data transmission protocols, and terrestrial interfaces. An extensive glossary provides answers to many of the technical questions that may arise while utilizing GPRS, HSCSD, EDGE or IS-136 HS technology. Packed with more than 200 illustrations that support key topics.

Learn how to use CAMEL to transfer the Intelligent Network concept to the mobile world! CAMEL (Customized Application for the Mobile network Enhanced Logic) is a standard for Intelligent Networks for mobile communications networks. It is currently deployed in all regions of the world, enabling mobile network operators to offer fast and efficient services to their subscribers. This book is an in-depth and dedicated reference on CAMEL, taking the reader through the history and development of Intelligent Networks and the essential principles of CAMEL, to the future of the technology. The author provides guidance on the various standards and specifications, and explains not only how CAMEL works but also why it works this way. Practical hints on the installation of CAMEL in the network are given throughout the book. CAMEL: Intelligent Networks for the GSM, GPRS and UMTS Network: Offers a comprehensive guide to implementing CAMEL. Gives a complete picture, including the network entities & data flows involved. Describes and explains the four CAMEL phases and their aspects. Presents an overview of the principles of Intelligent Networks, such as Finite State Machines, Trigger Detection Points, Event Detection Points and dialogue, essential to understanding CAMEL. Covers charging and accounting issues, and the impact of CAMEL on the charging system in the mobile network. Provides practical hints over and above those mentioned in the formal specifications. This text will be an invaluable resource for intelligent network service logic designers, service network designers, network engineers, and GSM/UMTS network designers and implementers. Advanced students on courses such as ‘Intelligent Networks’, ‘Value Added Services’, and ‘Service Networks’ will also find it an excellent guide to the topic.

To ensure competitive advantage for their companies in wireless product development, developers need to understand how wireless technologies work, what impact they have on applications being developed, and how to use them to optimize products for success in the marketplace. Designed to answer these and other wireless development questions, this unique handbook explores how a host of relevant technologies work together with the new worldwide standards for wireless technologies--General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) and Third Generation (3G). Leading expert Christoffer Andersson clearly explains how GPRS and 3G control the mobile environment, then goes on to describe how the emerging radio technology of Bluetooth fits in with WAP and Java, how wireless applications work with HTTP and TCP/IP on the Internet, and how to create "always-on" wireless applications.

This practical new resource gives you a comprehensive understanding of the design and deployment of transmission networks for wireless applications. From principles and design, to equipment procurement, project management, testing, and operation, it's a practical, hands-on engineering guide with numerous real-life examples of turn-key operations in the wireless networking industry. This book, written for both technical and non-technical professionals, helps you deal with the costs and difficulties involved in setting up the local access with technologies that are still in the evolutionary stage. Issues involved in the deployment of various transmission technologies, and their impact on the overall wireless network topology are discussed. Strategy and approach to transmission network planning, design and deployment are explored. The book offers practical guidelines and advice derived from the author's own experience on projects worldwide. You gain a solid grounding in third generation wireless networks with increased capacity requirements, while learning all about packet data architecture, and how it will impact future transmission network design and deployment.

LNCS 5966