Memotec - Redefining Network Efficiency

Using 2G-3G traffic aggregation over an ATM based RAN already offers the full benefits of packet based networks in terms of bandwidth efficiency and RAN optimization. However, IP/Ethernet based technologies, when available, are usually more cost efficient and deliver more capacity at a lower cost per bit. Taking advantage of such technologies is instrumental in realizing the full benefits of HSPA service and supporting the longer term evolution of the mobile network to an all-IP transmission network.

The Memotec CX solutions deliver a smooth and seamless evolution to an all-IP RAN. Starting with 2G-3G aggregation over an ATM RAN and HSPA offload, the same equipments can then safely migrate 2G or 3G R99 traffic over an IP/Ethernet based transmission infrastructure, be it Metro-Ethernet, xDSL, Cable modem, PON or WiMAX.

The CX series make use of technology such as ATM pseudowire and Abis packetization (with or without optimization) to migrate the non-IP traffic over an IP-RAN. They support standard IP/MPLS interface and protocols over Ethernet, E1 and STM-1 connectivity. Comprehensive clocking mode of operation is provided to guarantee end-to-end synchronization integrity, including Timing Over Packet (TOP). QoS mapping to IP/MPLS ToS or DiffServ is used to preserve quality of service and strict priorities between signaling, voice and data services.

The Memotec CX-UA is recommended for standalone mode of operation at hubs or aggregation points, while the Memotec CX-U devices is ideal for remote cell sites.

Although initial deployment of HSPA service can be done on the existing transmission infrastructure with solutions such as Memotec’s 2G-3G RAN optimization, the expected growth in HSPA traffic and ramp-up in service speed –equivalent to several E1s – require new alternatives.

With Memotec’s CX series, MNOs can offload all or part of the HSPA traffic over less expensive IP-based broadband access services such as cable, xDSL, WiMAX, PON or Metro Ethernet. The result is a far more efficient use of network resources, enabling carriers to reduce OPEX and CAPEX while still deploying cutting-edge services.

Using lower cost per bit broadband access services such as ADSL2+ or VDSL, allows to offload HSPA traffic from the main transmission network. Mainstream 2G/3G revenue generating services integrity is preserved being kept on the existing RAN infrastructure. Eventually, broadband access services might carry all the cell site traffic migrating to an all-IP RAN.

The CX series receives the HSPA traffic at the Iub interface over ATM IMA E1 (using dedicated VCCs), or Ethernet. Offload is achieved in full-duplex or half-duplex mode (download path) over the alternate access path (Ethernet uplink or ADSL2+/VDSL modem). Real-time 2G and 3G voice & data services remain on the current existing transmission network. The current RAN can also be used as backup in case of broadband access service outage. Synchronization integrity is maintained through the existing RAN connectivity.

Rolling out 3G and HSPA services today presents a dilemma for many mobile operators: how to get the capacity required to offer these new services now and without overhauling their entire network? This is particularly true when the targeted cell sites are connected over leased lines or limited capacity PDH/SDH microwave networks.

Memotec CX-U/CX-UA deliver the solution: by being able to virtually multiply the capacity of the existing PDH/SDH & ATM RAN infrastructure through 2G-3G traffic aggregation and optimization, it enables the mobile operator to deploy 3G and HSPA services immediately without having to do forklift upgrade of its Microwave backhaul network where it is not appropriate to do so, or add new leased line capacity.

 

 

The Memotec CX-U & CX-UA solutions provides the Mobile Operator with an hybrid smooth evolution approach to IP-RAN migration based on hub or cell site Gateways in 3 steps:

1. 2G-3G traffic aggregation and optimization using the current existing PDH/SDH TDM & ATM RAN infrastructure with or without adding strategically some capacity;
2. Hybrid RAN architecture with HSPA offload if broadband access services are available at the hub or cell site.
3. Migration to an all-IP RAN

All with the same equipments / configurations.

The deployment of 3G GSM involves providing every mobile customer with broadband data services at 256 kb/s and up. But most GSM mobile operators readily admit that universal deployment of 3G base station equipment ("Node Bs") is not a cost effective model. While deploying 3G "Node Bs" in urban and suburban areas makes sense, the cost of deploying a 3G radio access network (RAN) in rural and lower density areas is difficult to justify from both an economic and technical (over-capacity) point of view.

EDGE (Enhanced Data GSM Environment) has been touted as the economic solution for 3G services global coverage. As EDGE is fully compatible with 3G applications, a GSM operator can provide continuity of services when a mobile user roams from a 3G-serviced area to a 2.5G EDGE area, thus providing 3G services (even 4G VoIP) global coverage at a reasonable cost.

But deploying EDGE services require additional backhaul capacity, usually a minimum of 256 Kb/s per BTS, which comes at a significant additional cost. This is a significant issue if the operator is not certain that the additional revenue the new data services will be sufficient to cover the additional costs.

AbisXtender solves this problem. Thanks to AbisXtender's true network utilization behavior and statistical multiplexing capability between voice and data flows, a mobile operator can use AbisXtender to deploy EDGE data services essentially "for free", that is to say without increasing OPEX costs while still benefiting form the additional revenue.

AbisXtender delivers data services at speeds greater than 128 Kb/s using 2.5G EDGE technology over satellite links, providing the mobile customer with a near-broadband experience, and throughput that is equivalent or better than ISDN data services.

Since it is based on existing 2G BTS and technology, EDGE comes at a minimal hardware upgrade cost to existing 2G BTS equipment, and does not require changing the existing cell radio planning and design (unlike 3G deployment which requires smaller cells). Therefore, EDGE is the perfect complementary solution for deploying 3G services and applications in rural and lower density areas where high data traffic capacity is not required, and larger cell areas are a must.

Conclusion: By allowing mobile operators to deploy 2.5G services "risk-free' with a minimum additional OPEX, AbisXtender enables mobile service providers to offer global 3G services across their entire networks, including low density and rural areas which have usually no access to broadband services. AbisXtender is the solution that effectively bridges the "digital broadband divide".