Sara Mazur

EDGE: enhanced data rates for GSM and TDMA/136 evolution

Two of the major second-generation standards, GSM and TDMA/136, have built the foundation to offer a common global radio access for data services. Through use of a common physical layer, EDGE, both standards will have the same evolutionary path toward providing third-generation services. EDGE is currently subject to standardization in TIA TR45.3 and ETSI SMG, a process which will be finalized at the end of 1999. Compared to the existing data services in GSM and TDMA/136, EDGE will provide significantly higher user bit rates and spectral efficiency. EDGE can be introduced in these systems in a smooth way, using existing frequency plans of already deployed networks. This article gives the rationale behind the development of the EDGE concept, presents the EDGE technology, and addresses performance by means of system simulations.

Adaptive antennas for GSM and TDMA systems

Adaptive antennas have generated great interest in previous years, and at present several manufacturers and operators are separately or jointly performing field tests to gain more detailed knowledge of the potential of the technology. This article summarizes many of the experiences that have been collected since 1996 during field trials carried out for both GSM and TDMA (IS-136) by Ericsson in cooperation with two major network operators, Mannesmann Mobilfunk and AT&T Wireless Services.

System overview and performance evaluation of GERAN-the GSM/EDGE Radio Access Network

With the now finalized standardization of the first phase of the EDGE concept and its introduction of 8PSK modulation to support higher data rates, GPRS has evolved into a third generation (3G) mobile communication system. Within its second phase, EDGE will evolve further into being capable of supporting real-time packet data and thereby providing the full range of 3G services. By adopting the UMTS quality of service (QoS) concept, together with the development of new radio bearers, support of real-time packet data is accomplished and the GSM/EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN) is created. This paper describes and evaluates GERAN with the focus on IP multimedia and the alignment with the UMTS QoS model.