GPRS and IS-136 integration for flexible network and services evolution

The integration of General Packet Radio Service with IS-136 networks will provide IS-136 users and operators with many benefits. In addition to the existing voice services on circuit networks, the mobile user with an appropriate terminal now has direct access to services on packet data networks through GPRS. Of particular importance are services based on the Internet Protocol (IP). Furthermore, compared with fixed IP networks, there is an added dimension stemming from user mobility, which results in mobility-specific requirements and mobility-specific services. In addition, GPRS protocols open up the possibility of global data roaming with Global System for Mobile Communications networks. From the operator perspective, the integration enables a controlled and flexible architecture transition to a network where data applications play an increasingly important role. The operator also benefits from the GSM economies of scale and from the evolution roadmap of GSM to the third generation. Finally, the above service advantages to the user translate into a competitive advantage for the operator. This article describes the architecture resulting from integrating IS-136 with GPRS and discusses the service evolution as well as network evolution that can be envisioned from such integration.