PrePay CDMA Subscribers Can Now Roam Onto GSM Networks

Roaming services provider, Mach has launched a new service that enables prepay CDMA customers to roam on GSM networks. Mach, working with with Accuris Networks says that it is the first provider to offer an inter-standard roaming service for prepaid mobile users, and is the first to offer a fully integrated prepaid and post-paid inter-standard roaming capability to CDMA operators.

Growth in mobile subscriber numbers today is driven mainly by prepaid mobile users, particularly in emerging markets and particularly among the lucrative younger generation users. CDMA operators are currently forced to forego potential revenue when these prepaid users travel out of region because it has not been possible for CDMA prepaid users to roam on a GSM network. Roaming customers, therefore, have been required to purchase a prepaid local SIM card or use Wi-Fi hotspots in the destination market. This also has a significant negative impact on customer loyalty and retention rates as customers have been required to buy services from and transition between multiple providers.

The turnkey prepaid solution, which can be implemented using existing connections, offers prepaid end-users all of the services that are available on their home network when they are travelling abroad.

The service is offered under the Mach brand, and is delivered using the Accuris technology platform. Accuris Networks is a provider of Roaming Inter-Working and Convergence solutions for mobile devices.

"Our mobile operator customers will reap three immediate benefits from this solution," said Artur Michalczyk Mach COO. "First, they will immediately realise previously lost revenue streams by enabling users to roam on their existing prepaid SIM, commanding a greater share of revenues that would otherwise be spent on technologies like local prepaid GSM SIM cards or hotel and airport WiFi. Second, they will enhance the service they deliver to their customers, and increase customer loyalty, by providing a seamless service, wherever the user is roaming. And third, with end-to-end, one number inter-operability, operators can provide complete voice and messaging services without the time and investment required to build their own platform."

Roaming

In wireless telecommunications, roaming is a general term referring to the extension of connectivity service in a location that is different from the home location where the service was registered. Roaming ensures that the wireless device is kept connected to the network, without losing the connection. The term "roaming" originates from the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) sphere; the term "roaming" can also be applied to the CDMA technology. Traditional GSM Roaming is defined (cf. GSM Association Permanent Reference Document AA.39) as the ability for a cellular customer to automatically make and receive voice calls, send and receive data, or access other services, including home data services, when travelling outside

the geographical coverage area of the home network, by means of using a visited network. This can be done by using a communication terminal or else just by using the subscriber identity in the visited network. Roaming is technically supported by mobility management, authentication, authorization and billing procedures.

Contents

1 Roaming in general 2 Home and visited networks 3 Roaming agreements 4 The roaming process 5 Tariffs

o 5.1 Roaming in Europe 6 Additional notions and types of roaming 7 See also 8 References 9 Standardisation Organizations 10 External links

[edit] Roaming in general

Roaming is divided into "SIM-based roaming" and "Username/password-based roaming", whereby the technical term "roaming" also encompasses roaming between networks of different network standards, such as e.g. WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) or GSM. Device equipment and functionality, such as SIM card capability, antenna and network interfaces, and power management, determine the access possibilities.

Using the example of WLAN/GSM roaming, the following scenarios can be differentiated (cf. GSM Association Permanent Reference Document AA.39):

SIM-based (roaming): GSM subscriber roams onto a Public WLAN operated by: o their GSM Operator, oro another Operator who has a roaming agreement with their GSM Operator.

Username/password based roaming: GSM subscriber roams onto a Public WLAN operated by: o their GSM Operator, oro another Operator who has a roaming agreement with their GSM Operator.

Although these user/network scenarios focus on roaming from GSM Network Operator's network(s), clearly roaming can be bi-directional, i.e. from Public WLAN Operators to GSM Networks. Traditional roaming in networks of the same standard, e.g. from a WLAN to a WLAN or a GSM network to a GSM network, has already been described above and is likewise defined by the foreignness of the network based on the type of subscriber entry in the home subscriber register.

In terms of user service scenarios, the user can have access to the same set of services, irrespective of access type. However, differentiation also exists. Service scenarios may include access to a range of different services, including:

Access to corporate Intranet services; Access to operator walled garden services; and Access to public Internet.

In the case of session continuity, seamless access to these services across different access types is provided.

[edit] Home and visited networks

The differentiation between home network and visited network is technically given by the type of subscriber entry in a specific network. If a subscriber has no entry in the home subscriber register of the network (e.g. Home Location Register (HLR) in GSM networks or local customer database in WLANs), the required subscriber data must first be requested by the visited network e.g. from the subscriber's home network in order that the subscriber can be authenticated and any authorization for using the network services can be checked. The "visiting" subscriber acquires an entry in a user database of the visited network (e.g. Visited Location Register (VLR)) and the authorized network services are enabled. For the roaming procedure in practice, the possibility of assigning the subscriber data is always indispensable in order that authentication, authorization and billing of the subscriber can be performed in the corresponding network. Thus, the term roaming is not linked to a specific network standard, but rather to the type of subscriber entry in the home subscriber register of the mobile radio network. If a subscriber can use his personal service profile, which he uses in the home network, in the visited network as well, this is also referred to as Global Service Roaming Capability.

Roaming agreements

The legal roaming business aspects negotiated between the roaming partners for billing of the services obtained are usually stipulated in so called roaming agreements. The GSM Association broadly outlines the content of such roaming agreements in standardized form for its members. For the legal aspects of authentication, authorization and billing of the visiting subscriber, the roaming agreements typically can comprise minimal safety standards, as e.g. location update procedures or financial security or warranty procedures.

The roaming process

The details of the roaming process differ among types of cellular networks, but in general, the process resembles the following:

1. When the mobile device is turned on or is transferred via a handover to the network, this new "visited" network sees the device, notices that it is not registered with its own system, and attempts to identify its home network. If there is no roaming agreement between the two networks, maintenance of service is impossible, and service is denied by the visited network.

2. The visited network contacts the home network and requests service information (including whether or not the mobile should be allowed to roam) about the roaming device using the IMSI number.

3. If successful, the visited network begins to maintain a temporary subscriber record for the device. Likewise, the home network updates its information to indicate that the mobile is on the host network so that any information sent to that device can be correctly routed.

Tata Indicoms international roaming service One World-One Number for all its post-paid CDMAcustomers across 20 circles. This service will enable the use of both CDMA and GSM services using a single T-SIM product for international roaming. This means that users will not have to change their number to switch between two networks freely and will be able to take advantage of zone-based tariffs.

First telecom service provider in the world to launch a single T-SIM card for international roaming. This will provide seamless access of different networks to our customers in 186 countries via 291 GSM roaming partners and five CDMA partners.

Seamless International RoamingWith the BlackBerry 8830 World edition dual mode smartphone, you can now experience seamless international

roaming. Tata Indicom’s One World One Number T-SIM card which comes preloaded in your BlackBerry empowers

you to switch between CDMA & GSM networks.

Tata Teleservices Ltd. has a roaming tie-up with CDMA & GSM networks across more than 178 countries.

Now the world is no longer CDMA or GSM but one world where you get to choose the best service provider without

having to worry about CDMA or GSM

The BlackBerry Bold 9650, introduced exclusively by Tata Teleservices Limited is a new Smartphone for CDMA subscribers, offering seamless global roaming, 512 MB of Flash Memory, an Optical Trackpad, and enhanced Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities

NEW DELHI, INDIA: Tata Indicom, the CDMA arm of Tata Teleservices Limited, a dual-technology pan-India telecom services provider, and Research in Motion today announced the launch of the BlackBerry Bold 9650, the first combined CDMA-GSM 3G-ready Smartphone in the BlackBerry Bold series.

The BlackBerry Bold 9650, introduced exclusively by Tata Teleservices Limited is a new Smartphone for CDMA subscribers, offering seamless global roaming, 512 MB of Flash Memory, an Optical Trackpad, and enhanced Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities, said a press release.

Commenting on the launch of the BlackBerry Bold 9650, Sunil Batra, president of CDMA Operations at Tata Teleservices Limited, said, “As the youngest dual-technology telecom service provider in India, the addition of a Smartphone like the BlackBerry Bold 9650 to our portfolio of products and services from Research In Motion is an important step in strengthening our offerings to consumers.”

“The BlackBerry Bold 9650 Smartphone delivers premium phone and multimedia features, together with global roaming support and the industry’s leading mobile solution for e-mail, messaging and social networking,” said Frenny Bawa, managing director-India, Research In Motion.

Customers purchasing the BlackBerry Bold 9650 Smartphone in the month of October will also be given a special data usage offer. For the first two months, these customers will receive a free data pack worth Rs.900 per month, as well as 500 MB of tethered modem data usage per month. Customers using the BlackBerry Bold 9650 smartphone will also have exclusive access to Tata’s Photon TV, powered by Photon +, on the go, the release said.

The BlackBerry Bold 9650 Smartphone offers a compact design and an easy-to-use full-QWERTY keyboard. It includes a variety of useful productivity applications and a wide range of popular features, including advanced multimedia capabilities, Bluetooth 2.1 and a 3.2-megapixel camera with flash, image stabilization and video recording.

Syniverse signs a contract with Tata Teleservices, one of India's fastest growing mobile phone service providers with pan-India coverage. Syniverse will provide Tata Teleservices' customers with seamless international wireless roaming services.

Syniverse Technologies (NYSE:SVR), a leading provider of mission-critical technology services to wireless telecommunications companies worldwide, announced today that it has signed a contract with Tata Teleservices of India to provide seamless CDMA international roaming services. With Syniverse's services, Tata Teleservices subscribers will now be able to use their mobile phone for voice services and SMS on CDMA networks throughout the world where CDMA coverage is available.

India's mobile subscriber base is approximately 50 million today and is considered to be one of the fastest growing telecommunications markets with less than 10% penetration. Additionally, the number of tourists traveling in and out of India is expected to grow by 30 percent this year, according to forecasts by the World Tourism Organization of Madrid. Syniverse will provide Tata Teleservices with a multi-service offering that includes clearinghouse services for roaming revenue settlement and exchange; SS7 transport and conversion; ANSI-41 signaling interoperability; a near-real time, on-line customer management application used to track and troubleshoot roamers; and SMS routing, which will enable SMS mobile origination and termination for Tata Teleservices subscribers who are roaming internationally.

On the occasion Mr. Firdose Vandrevala, Chairman, Tata Teleservices, said, "Tata Teleservices already has a pan-India operation and is the world leader in fixed wireless service. We plan to expand our presence by further enhancing our service offerings. The ability to offer seamless international roaming based on Syniverse's proven interoperability solutions will help us to tap into the potential of the booming international mobile communications market. This tie-up is an extension to our efforts of providing our customers the very best."

"Tata Teleservices is an innovative technology leader in one of the fastest growing telecom markets in the world. Their vision for subscriber growth and international roaming is perfectly matched with our expertise in roaming interoperability services," said Syniverse CEO Ed Evans. "We continue to secure significant customer contracts in Asia Pacific, which demonstrates our commitment to international expansion and our unique technical capabilities that enable subscribers to take advantage of both voice and data services on a worldwide basis."

About Tata Teleservices

Tata Teleservices is one of India's leading private telecom service provider. The company offers integrated telecom solutions to its customers under the Tata Indicom brand, and uses the latest CDMA 3G1X technology for its wireless network. Tata Teleservices operates in 20 circles i.e. Andhra Pradesh, Chennai, Gujarat, Karnataka, New Delhi, Maharashtra, Mumbai, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Bihar, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh (E), Uttar Pradesh (W), Kolkata, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal. The company has a customer base of over 3.66 million.

About Syniverse

Syniverse is a leading provider of mission-critical technology services to wireless telecommunications companies worldwide. Syniverse solutions simplify technology complexities by integrating disparate carriers' systems and networks in order to provide seamless global voice and data communications to wireless subscribers. Carriers depend on Syniverse's integrated suite of services to solve their most complex technology challenges and to facilitate the rapid deployment of next generation wireless services. Syniverse provides services to over 300 telecommunications carriers in approximately 40 countries, including the ten largest U.S. wireless carriers and six of the ten largest international wireless carriers. Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., U.S.A., with offices in major cities throughout North America and in The Netherlands, Syniverse has a global sales force in London, Luxembourg, Rome, Beijing, Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte.

If a call is made to a roaming mobile, the public telephone network routes the call to the phone's registered service provider, who then must route it to the visited network. That network must then provide an internal temporary phone number to the mobile (MSRN). Once this number is defined, the home network forwards the incoming call to the temporary phone number, which terminates at the host network and is forwarded to the mobile.

In order that a subscriber is able to "latch" on to a visited network, a roaming agreement needs to be in place between the visited network and the home network. This agreement is established after a series of testing processes called IREG (International Roaming Expert Group) and TADIG (Transferred Account Data Interchange Group). While the IREG testing is to test the proper functioning of the established communication links, the TADIG testing is to check the billability of the calls.

The usage by a subscriber in a visited network is captured in a file called the TAP (Transferred Account Procedure) for GSM / CIBER (Cellular Intercarrier Billing Exchange Record) for CDMA, AMPS etc... file and is transferred to the home network. A TAP/CIBER file contains details of the calls made by the subscriber viz. location, calling party, called party, time of call and duration, etc. The TAP/CIBER files are rated as per the tariffs charged by the visited operator. The home operator then bills these calls to its subscribers and may charge a mark-up/tax applicable locally. As recently many carriers launched own retail rate plans and bundles for Roaming, TAP records are generally used for wholesale Inter-Operators settlements only.

Tariffs

Roaming fees are traditionally charged on a per-minute basis and they are typically determined by the service provider's pricing plan. Several carriers in the both United States and India have eliminated these fees in their nationwide pricing plans. All of the major carriers now offer pricing plans that allow consumers to purchase nationwide roaming-free minutes. However, carriers define "nationwide" in different ways. For example, some carriers define "nationwide" as anywhere in the U.S., whereas others define it as anywhere within the carrier's network.

An operator intending to provide roaming services to visitors publishes the tariffs that would be charged in his network at least sixty days prior to its implementation under normal situations. The visited operator tariffs may include tax, discounts etc. and would be based on duration in case of voice calls. For data calls, the charging may be based on the data volume sent and received. Some operators also charge a separate fee for call setup i.e. for the establishment of a call. This charge is called a flagfall charge.

Roaming in Europe

In the European Union, the Regulation on roaming charges has been in force since 30 June 2007, forcing service providers to lower their roaming fees across the 27-member bloc. It later also included EEA member states. The regulation sets a price cap of €0.39 (€0.49 in 2007, €0.46 in 2008, €0.43 in 2009) per minute for outgoing calls, and €0.15 (€0.24 in 2007, €0.22 in 2008, €0.19 in 2009) per minute for incoming calls - excluding tax.[2] If the Commission is satisfied that competition will continue to keep prices at this level, or lower, the regulation will expire in mid 2012. Since mid 2009 there is also an €0.11 (excluding tax) maximum price for SMS text message included into this regulation.

Additional notions and types of roaming

Regional roaming:

This type of roaming refers to the ability of moving from one region to another region inside national coverage of the mobile operator. Initially, operators may have provide commercial offers restricted to a region (sometimes to a town). Due to the success of GSM and the decrease in cost, regional roaming is rarely offered to clients except in nations with wide geographic areas like the USA, Russia, India, etc., in which there are a number of regional operators.

National roaming:

This type of roaming refers to the ability to move from one mobile operator to another in the same country. For example, a subscriber of T-Mobile USA who is allowed to roam on AT&T Mobility's service would have national roaming rights. For commercial and license reasons, this type of roaming is not allowed unless under very specific circumstances and under regulatory scrutiny. This has often taken place when a new company is assigned a mobile telephony license, to create a more competitive market by allowing the new entrant to offer coverage comparable to that of established operators (by requiring the existing operators to allow roaming while the new

entrant has time to build up its own network). In a country like India, where the number of regional operators is high and the country is divided into circles, this type of roaming is common[citation needed].

International roaming:

This type of roaming refers to the ability to move to a foreign service provider's network. It is, consequently, of particular interest to international tourists and business travellers.

Broadly speaking, international roaming is easiest using the GSM standard, as it is used by over 80% of the world's mobile operators. However, even then, there may be problems, since countries have allocated different frequency bands for GSM communications (there are two groups of countries: most GSM countries use 900/1800 MHz, but the United States and some other countries in the Americas have allocated 850/1900 MHz): for a phone to work in a country with a different frequency allocation, it must support one or both of that country's frequencies, and thus be tri or quad band.

Inter-standards roaming (ISR):

This type of roaming refers to the ability to move seamlessly between mobile networks of different technologies.

Since mobile communication technologies have evolved independently across continents, there is significant challenge in achieving seamless roaming across these technologies. Typically, these technologies were implemented in accordance with technological standards laid down by different industry bodies and hence the name.

A number of the standards making industry bodies have come together to define and achieve interoperability between the technologies as a means to achieve inter-standards roaming. This is currently an ongoing effort.

Mobile Signature Roaming:

The concept of Mobile signature Roaming is: an access point should be able to get a Mobile Signature from any end-user, even if the AP and the end-user have not contracted a commercial relationship with the same MSSP. Otherwise, an AP would have to build commercial terms with as many MSSPs as possible, and this might be a cost burden. This means that a Mobile Signature transaction issued by an Application Provider should be able to reach the appropriate MSSP, and this should be transparent for the AP(reference).

Inter MSC Roaming:

Network elements belonging to the same Operator but located in different areas (a typical situation where assignment of local licenses is a common practice)pair depends on the switch and its location. Hence, software changes and a greater processing capability are required, but

furthermore this situation could introduce the fairly new concept of roaming on a per MSC basis instead of per Operator basis. But this is actually a burden, so it is avoided.

Permanent Roaming:

This type of roaming refers to customers who purchase service with a mobile phone operator intending to permanently roaming, or be off-network. This becomes possible because of the increasing popularity and availability of "free roaming" service plan, where there is no cost difference between on and off network usage. The benefits of getting service from a mobile phone operator that isn't local to you can include cheaper rates, or features and phones that aren't available on your local mobile phone operator, or to get to a particular mobile phone operator's network to get free calls to other customers of that mobile phone operator through a free unlimited mobile to mobile feature. Accidentally become a permanent roaming customer does not usually happen. Most mobile phone operators will require the customer's living or billing address be inside their coverage area or less often inside the government issued radio frequency license of the mobile phone operator, this is usually determined by a computer estimate because it its impossible to guarantee coverage (see Dead zone (cell phone)). If a potential customer's address is not within the requirements of that mobile phone operator, they will be denied service. In order to permanently roam customers may use a false address and online billing, or a relative or friends address which is in the required area, and a 3rd party billing option.

Most mobile phone operator discourage or prohibit permanent roaming since they must pay per minute rates to the network operator their customer is roaming onto to, while they can not pass that extra cost onto customers ("free roaming").

Trombone roaming:

Roaming calls within a local tariff area, when at least one of the phones belong outside that area. Usually implemented with trombone routing also known as tromboning

The routing of trombone roaming.

IEEE 802.11 o IEEE 802.11f o IEEE 802.11r

Home Location Register Handoff Mobile IP Mobile phone Mobile phones on aircraft Mobility management Regulation on roaming charges in the European Union Roaming sim GSM frequency bands UMTS frequency bands Vertical handoff Visitor Location Register

Standardisation Organizations

ETSI website, European Telecommunications Standards Institute. Direct access to ETSI standards publications. GSM website, Global System for Mobile communications by the GSM Association (GSMA)

GSM operators and their roaming agreements - Index of GSM operators in a country, and their roaming partners indexed by country. Maintained by GSM Alliance

International Forum on ANSI-41 Standards Technology - Lists some of the issues in Inter-standards roaming

Local Roaming Number - Article talk about the Local Roaming Number Value Add Service.

cdma_roaming

About CDMA and GSM roaming you can find a lot of information from those sites:http://www.tsiconnections.comhttp://www.telesoft-technologies.com

And there are some companies from India who provide soft-converters of IS41d GSM MAP protocols.

About GSM1X, it's not intended to provide roaming capability. You can read from it's description, that the GSM1X have been created for GSM operators to be able to use CDMA radio network for enhanced radio frequency source of CDMA standard.

CDMA has already implemented full IMSI. It is just that most of the operators need to yet convert their n/w in to full IMSI networks. This will happen but will take time. In fact in India some networks are not even full MIN complient ( meaning that they are using some bulid up numbers not the MIN ranges managed by some independent agency

Let us look at the factors which causes the problem and how to overcome them..1> difference between MIN and IMSIIMSI is MCC+MNC+SN=15MIN=10 SO we have do some Mobile GTT to convert MIN in to the format of MCC+MNC+Min=IMSI2> GSM+CDMA handset.3> any other issue ...

SMS-Interworking doesnt mean that roaming is possible between CDMA2000 and GSM.

But this can provide a step forward towards MAP-Interworking...

This is no roaming. This is interworking between GSM and CDMA n/w so that a GSM subscriber can send message to CDMA subscriber and visa versa. This is kind of black box that converts the CDMA SMS messages of IS-41 format into GSM MAP format so that the GSM network entities can send that message to The GSM subscribers.

This is in no way roaming.

IS41D and GSM - MAP Protocal Interworking is currenly used in INDIA for SMS-Interworking between CDMA2000 and GSM Networks.

For this the CDMA Operator is using a "SPECIAL UNIT" to do the CONVERSION JOB.

Regarding roaming between GSM and CDMA, the answer is yes and did not have to wait 4G or 3G and it's available right now with GSM1X (u can refer to www.GSM1X.com). The product and technology built by Qualcom and it's already complete trial by China Unicom( according to news)...

GSM (Global System for Mobile communications, originally from Groupe Spécial Mobile) is the most popular standard for mobile phones in the world, with its promoter, the GSM Association, estimating that the GSM service provides 82% of the global mobile market and is used by over 2 billion people across more than 212 countries and territories.

Code division multiple access (CDMA) describes a communication channel access principle that employs spread-spectrum technology and a special coding scheme (where each transmitter is assigned a code). CDMA also refers to digital cellular telephony systems that use this multiple access scheme, as pioneered by QUALCOMM, and W-CDMA by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which is used in GSM’s UMTS.

Whereas Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) is a specification of an entire network infrastructure, CDMA relates only to the air interface — the radio portion of the technology. For example, GSM specifies an infrastructure based on internationally approved standard, while CDMA allows each operator to provide network features it finds suitable. On the air interface, the signalling suite (GSM: ISDN SS7) work has been progressing to harmonise these features.

Subscriber Identity Module (SIM Card)

SIM (subscriber identity module) card, the onboard memory device that identifies a user and stores all of his information on the handheld. You can swap GSM SIM cards between handsets when a new one is necessary, which enables you to carry all of your contact and calendar information over to a new handset with no hassle. CDMA operators answer this flexibility with their own service that stores user data, including phone book and scheduler information, on the operator’s database. This service makes it possible to not only swap over to a new handset with little trouble, but it also gives users the ability to recover contact date even if their phone is lost or stolen.

International Roaming with GSM and CDMA

Where international business travel is an issue, GSM leaps forward in the race for the title of “Most Accessible.” Because GSM is used in more than 74% of the markets across the globe, users of tri-band or quad-band handsets can travel to Europe, India, and most of Asia and still use their cell phones. CDMA offers no multiband capability, however, and therefore you can’t readily use it in multiple countries. However, certain phones like the Blackberry Tour and the HTC Touch Pro 2 now have Quad-band GSM built in so they can be used overseas with special calling plans from carriers.

Data Transfer Methods in GSM vs. CDMA

Another difference between GSM and CDMA is in the data transfer methods. GSM’s high-speed wireless data technology, GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), usually offers a slower data bandwidth for wireless data connection than CDMA’s high-speed technology (1xRTT, short for single carrier radio transmission technology), which has the capability of providing ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network)-like speeds of as much as 144Kbps (kilobits per second). However, 1xRTT requires a dedicated connection to the network for use, whereas GPRS sends in packets, which means that data calls made on a GSM handset don’t block out voice calls like they do on CDMA phones.

Interaction between GSM and CDMA

In cities and densely populated areas, there are often high concentrations of GSM and CDMA connection bases. In theory, GSM and CDMA are invisible to one another and should "play nice" with one another. In practice, however, this is not the case. High-powered CDMA signals have raised the "noise floor" for GSM receivers, meaning there is less space within the available band to send a clean signal. This sometimes results in dropped calls in areas where there is a high concentration of CDMA technology. Conversely, high-powered GSM signals have been shown to cause overloading and jamming of CDMA receivers due to CDMA’s reliance upon broadcasting across its entire available band.

The result of this little cross-broadcasting joust has led some cities to pass ordinances limiting the space between cell towers or the height they can reach, giving one technology a distinct advantage over the other. This is something to note when choosing a wireless provider. The distance between towers will severely affect connectivity for GSM-based phones because the phones need constant access to the tower’s narrow band broadcasting.

Prevalence of CDMA vs. GSM

GSM is a lot more widespread in Europe and Asia. In the United States, Sprint and Verizon networks are CDMA whereas AT&T and T-Mobile are on GSM. In India, Hutch, Bharti, TATA DOCOMO and BSNL are on GSM whereas Reliance and Tata INDICOM are on CDMA networks.

HSPA is build on top of W-CDMA. It actually incorporates multiple technologies (TDMA, W-CDMA and

code multiplexing). Most GSM operators have a UMTS (aka. 3GSM, WCDMA, HSPA) overlay network.

GSM also has had a constant roadmat through 3G to 4G. Also roaming works globally. LTE and WiMAX

are essentially the same technology. WiMax's main problem is that it didn't do mobility very well. LTE

was brought out to make sure mobility works

CDMA is actually a superior technology to GSM. It propagates further, works better inside structures,

has built in noise cancellation, more calls per cel cite, automatically hands off calls to different cel

cites to minimize congestion, and works better in low signal areas to name a few. The only thing that

GSM brings top the table other than coverage, is better battery life, but that's because it is a less

powerful chip-set. It is true that eventually almost everyone int he world is going LTE.

LTE supports both FDD and TDD mode. GSM does not, it is strictly Time Division.

WiMAX is a niche trechnology at best and is seriously struggling - it's losing money all over the world.

The future is quite clearly GSM - so HSPA, HSPA Evolved/+ and LTE. There's no point comparing

WiMAX with LTE - We should be comparing HSPA with WiMAX. HSPA and HSPA+ are used globally and

gaining traction (200 million HSPA subscribers vs. WiMAX's 100,000 globally) - everything will lead to

LTE (also part of the GSM family of technologies), but HSPA will be around for a good few years yet.

Think global traction and economies of scale! Neither of which WiMAX has. So LTE is the future - just

look at what the operators in the US are doing: - Verizon moving from CDMA to LTE in 2010 - AT&T

moving from HSPA to LTE - T-Mobile moving from HSPA to HSPA+, and the LTE We'll ALL be using LTE

withing 10 years - CDMA and WiMAX will be technologies of the past. Johan Lassing, Sweden

- by 80.64.49.212 on 2009-11-26 12:08:21

GSM's only advantage is data/voice simultaneously. CDMA is faster, clearer, more secure, and much

less likely to drop calls. Its the newest mobile technology. There could be an eventual change in the

near future shifting to WiMax and LTE using VoIP insead of traditional cellular voice. WiMax is the

future. If the LTE network is eventually built, it will be very powerful. But WiMax may have a

stronghold on the wireless broadband industry by then.

Data using HSDPA on mobiles is very fast. GSM phones can also be unlocked and used on different

networks, unlike CDMA thus, giveing customers greater choice.

GSM  -> GSM Vs CDMA

The ultimate outcome of the battle for dominance between these two competing cellular data transmission technologies may lie more in their history than their respective merits. To understand the current prevalence of GSM, one needs a foundation in the forces that converged to push one technology ahead of the other.

One of the most contentious battles being waged in the wireless infrastructure industry is the debate over the efficient use and allocation of finite airwaves. For several years, the world's two main methods -- Code-Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) -- have divided the wireless world into opposing camps. Ultimately, the emergence of a victorious technology may owe more to historical forces than the latest wireless innovation, or the merits of one standard over the other.

CDMA's World War II FoundationsCDMA, put into an historical context, is a recently patented technology that only became commercially available in the mid-1990s, but had its roots in pre-World War II America. In 

 1940, hollywood actress turned inventor, Hedy Lamarr, and co-inventor George Antheil, with World War II looming, co-patented a way for torpedoes to be controlled by sending signals over multiple radio frequencies using random patterns. Despite arduous efforts by the inventors to advance the technology from experiment to implementation, the U.S. Navy discarded their work as architecturally unfeasible. The idea, which was known as frequency-hopping, and later as frequency-hopping spread-spectrum technology (FHSS), remained dormant until 1957 when engineers at the Sylvania Electronic Systems Division, in Buffalo, New York took up the idea, and after the Lamarr-Antheil patent expired, used it to secure communications for the U.S. during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. After becoming an integral part of government security technology, the U.S. military, in the mid-80s, declassified what has now become CDMA technology, a technique based on spread-spectrum technology.

What interested the military soon caught the eye of a nascent wireless industry. CDMA, incorporating spread-spectrum, works by digitizing multiple conversations, attaching a code known only to the sender and receiver, and then dicing the signals into bits and reassembling them. The military loved CDMA because coded signals with trillions of possible combinations resulted in extremely secure transmissions.

Qualcomm, which patented CDMA, and other telecommunications companies, were attracted to the technology because it enabled many simultaneous conversations, rather than the limited stop-and-go transmissions of analog and the previous digital option.

CDMA was not field tested for commercial use until 1991, and was launched commercially in Hong Kong in 1995. CDMA technology is currently used by major cellular carriers in the United States and is the backbone of Sprint's Personal Communications System (PCS). Along with Sprint, major users of CDMA technology are Verizon and GTE.

Advantages of CDMA include:

Increased cellular communications security. Simultaneous conversations. Increased efficiency, meaning that the carrier can serve more subscribers. Smaller phones. Low power requirements and little cell-to-cell coordination needed by operators. Extended reach - beneficial to rural users situated far from cells.

Disadvantages of CDMA include:

Due to its proprietary nature, all of CDMA's flaws are not known to the engineering community. CDMA is relatively new, and the network is not as mature as GSM. CDMA cannot offer international roaming, a large GSM advantage.

 

The Euro-Asian Alternative: GSM

Analysts consider Qualcomm's major competitive disadvantage to be its lack of access to the European market now controlled by Global System for Mobile communications (GSM). The wireless world is now divided into GSM (much of Western Europe) and CDMA (North America and parts of Asia).

Bad timing may have prevented the evolution of one, single global wireless standard. Just two years before CDMA's 1995 introduction in Hong Kong, European carriers and manufacturers chose to support the first available digital technology - Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA). GSM uses TDMA as its core technology. Therefore, since the majority of wireless users are in Europe and Asia, GSM has taken the worldwide lead as the technology of choice.

Mobile Handset manufacturers ultimately split into two camps, as Motorola, Lucent, and Nextel chose CDMA, and Nokia and Ericsson eventually pushed these companies out and became the dominant GSM players.

Advantages of GSM:

GSM is already used worldwide with over 450 million subscribers. International roaming permits subscribers to use one phone throughout Western Europe. CDMA

will work in Asia, but not France, Germany, the U.K. and other popular European destinations. GSM is mature, having started in the mid-80s. This maturity means a more stable network with

robust features. CDMA is still building its network.

GSM's maturity means engineers cut their teeth on the technology, creating an unconscious preference.

The availability of Subscriber Identity Modules, which are smart cards that provide secure data encryption give GSM m-commerce advantages.

Conclusion

Today, the battle between CDMA and GSM is muddled. Where at one point Europe clearly favored GSM and North America, CDMA, the distinct advantage of one over the other has blurred as major carriers begin to support GSM, and recent trials even showed compatibility between the two technologies.

GSM still holds the upper hand however. There's the numerical advantage for one thing: 456 million GSM users versus CDMA's 82 million.

MACH’s ISR Solution Opens Up Roaming For Visafone's Pre-Paid CDMA Customers

MACH, the leading provider of hub-based mobile communication solutions, today announced the successful launch of Visafone’s pre-paid roaming service for CDMA subscribers using MACH’s market leading Inter-Standard Roaming (ISR) Solution. Visafone, Nigeria’s fastest growing mobile network operator, will be able to provide more than three million mostly pre-paid customers with seamless access to international roaming on GSM networks and other wireless technologies. By signing up yet another network operator to its industry-leading solution, MACH has firmed up its leadership position in the pre-paid roaming market.

Network operators are striving to deliver seamless connectivity worldwide for both their pre-paid and post-paid subscribers. By doing so, they improve customer experience, reduce churn and increase roaming revenues. Traditional inter-standard roaming solutions provide seamless connectivity for post-paid subscribers only. MACH’s ISR managed service solution is unique in the industry as it is able to provide for both pre-paid and post-paid subscribers. It offers an efficient and value added approach for CDMA operators, unlocking new revenue opportunities, and providing service continuity for their customers whilst travelling.

“One of Visafone’s stated goals is to be the pre-eminent and most customer focused telecom operator in Nigeria. Part of the plan to achieve this is the emphasis on seamless and efficient services that will ensure the best clarity and the widest coverage. By signing up to MACH’s ISR solution, we are one step closer to achieving this aim. MACH’s fully managed, outsourced solution as it provides for both pre-paid and post-paid subscribers, it is quick and easy to implement, and it has been adopted by major mobile operators around the world.”

offer seamless roaming - with one device, one number and one bill – to its mostly pre-paid CDMA customers in a very short space of time. customers will have full access to all their usual services while roaming, regardless of whether they are on pre-paid or post-paid packages.”

MACH ISR is a fully hosted inter-standard roaming solution in which a single agreement

provides full featured voice and data roaming in more than 200 countries with minimal capital investment and operational expenditure. Based on Accuris Networks’ inter-working platform for voice and SMS, and MACH’s own patented Mobile IP Proxy for seamless data roaming, it is delivered through a proven managed services infrastructure. It offers turnkey interoperability between wireless technologies, including CDMA, 1X/EVDO, GSM, GPRS/UMTS, Wi-Fi, WiMAX and, soon, LTE. The solution, which can be implemented using existing connections, offers end users all of the services that are available on their home network, even when they are travelling. With end-to-end, one number interoperability, mobile operators can provide complete voice and messaging services without the time and investment required to build their own platform.

How handoffs could be performed between the two Technologies.

R-UIM identity module. international roaming between CDMA and GSM networks, via a unique smart card. R-UIM (Removable User Identity Module) standard for CDMA phones, which allows CDMA subscribers to place the card into the SIM slot of a GSM phone when travelling and obtain GSM network coverage.

The RoamFree™ Gateway is designed to enable seamless roaming between GSM networks and IS-41 based CDMA networks

that handoffs could be performed between the two.)

to forum · permalink · 2001-09-20 15:26:32 ·

Anon

This is the world's first commercial application for the R-UIM. Schlumberger produced the new card for KTF to very tight timescales, to ensure that the new service would be available to Korean visitors to the Sydney Olympic games.The R-UIM specification provides subscribers with an internationally compatible and removable identity module for both the CDMA and GSM networks. As well as making it possible to enjoy GSM network coverage throughout the world, the R-UIM provides a flexible platform for the development and deployment of value-added services (VAS) for KTF's subscribers. Value added services can now be developed with the existing GSM SIM Toolkit (STK). Thanks to compatibility with the Java Card standard, it is also possible to re-load and change applets on the Simera Airflex in the field.

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This approach greatly simplifies VAS development compared with producing dedicated application firmware for the embedded processor inside the phone. Moreover, the new card opens up a migration path for KTF to the use of identity modules in the 3G evolution for CDMA terminals, providing the benefits of smart card-based security for mobile commerce.KTF's CDMA subscribers travelling to countries within the global GSM footprint now simply take their R-UIM module and plug it into a GSM handset to gain instant access to the new network. KTF is offering rental handsets that are available at the company's lounge in Kimpo International Airport."Simera Airflex cards give us a powerful platform for evolving our mobile communications brand", says Mr Pyo Hyun Myung, Vice President of Korea Telecom Freetel. "Right now, they help us to introduce truly international roaming services. In the future, they will give us an additional flexible route for delivering value-added services, which can be personalised to suit individual subscribers."

What I would like to invetigate it the possibility for GSM subscribers to go roaming in CDMA networks.

to forum · permalink · 2001-09-21 08:12:07 ·

mballardPremium,ExMod 1999-03

join:1999-11-15Los Angeles, CA

After reading that, it's not simply roaming from one type of network into the other, it's that someone made a phone/card system for CDMA, where you take the card, get a separate GSM phone, and use the card in the GSM phone for roaming on a GSM network. So if you own all your own equipment for roaming/home use, you end up with two phones and one card, on one account, with one phone able to be used at a time.

It also sounds like that a GSM provider could enable the same service, but they would have to choose so, and again it would still require two phones.

to forum · permalink · 2001-09-21 12:36:26 ·

reply

reply

dobie0

join:2000-06-22Englewood, CO

reply to AnonThe CDMA providers in the states will provide users with a GSM SIM card, and will be glad to sell a phone. Then when people call your cell phone number, it gets routed to a gsm phone. This is pretty much the same thing. The phones are still different.

to forum · permalink · 2001-09-21 14:56:04 ·

Mork6

join:2001-09-14Norway

reply to AnonHi !

I belive that CDMA is involved when they move GSM into so-called 3G (3 Generation). I's this the stuff you look for ?

Try the headlines: "Ericsson - The TDMA Operator path to GSM" and "3GSM - The Future of Communications" on this link

»www.gsmworld.com/technology/index.html

to forum · permalink · 2001-09-25 17:00:19 ·

dobie0

join:2000-06-22Englewood, CO

reply to AnonThere are still 2 3g standards. One is CDMA2000 (the current upgrade path for CDMA providers like Sprint), and the other is WCDMA. WCDMA is the upgrade path that most non CDMA operators are taking.

International Roaming Using CDMA

Courtesy of: CNP-Wireless

International roaming allows users of CDMA wireless phones to travel to a foreign country and enjoy many of the same services there that they can at home.

While there are still many challenges to obtain fully seamless international roaming, CDMA subscribers can enjoy some of the finest international roaming available. And, it will only get better in the future.

What is Roaming?

Roaming is the ability of a system to provide the same services to customers

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('roamers') from other systems, even from other countries. This involves the resolution of a number of business and technical challenges. Some of the major services that can be provided are:

o The ability to make a call ('Mobile Origination'). While this sounds simple, this fundamental service requires a wireless system to verify that the customer's subscription is valid, that the phone is not stolen, that it is not illegally emulating another phone, and to ensure that the type of call being made is not restricted.

o The ability to receive a call ('Mobile Termination' or 'Call Delivery'). This is technically much more complex, and requires the roamer's phone to first register in the system in which it wishes to receive calls. This is done automatically, and causes an exchange of information over the SS7/ANSI-41 network to the home system. When a call comes in to the home system it already knows where the mobile is, and can route a call to it.

o Inter-system handoff. This allows a mobile call to continue uninterrupted when the mobile crosses the boundary between two cellular systems.

o Short Message Service. When an SMS message comes in to the home system it will be forwarded to the mobile, wherever it is.

o Calling Name/Number Presentation. When receiving a call, the number of the caller or even their name will be displayed on their handset.

o International dialing. Some phones provide a "+" key or equivalent menu option that makes it easy to place an international call without knowing the local access number.

What Makes CDMA Roaming Work?

A standard known as ANSI-41 (aka TIA/EIA-41 or IS-41) provides roaming services for AMPS and CDMA systems. It is a good example of a Mobile Application Protocol (MAP), which is a high-level protocol that allows major elements of the wireless network to communicate. The major network elements are:

o Base Station. Contains the radio equipment for one or more cells. o MSC (Mobile Switching Center). Connects mobiles to other mobiles or to

phones in the telephone network or on other cellular systems. o HLR (Home Location Register). Contains information about a subscription,

including the types of services which are to be provided. o AC (Authentication Center). Contains cryptographic information that allows

the network to determine that a mobile is valid. Usually contained within an HLR.

o MC (Message Center). Stores and forwards short messages.

Some of the more important roaming capabilities that are provided by ANSI-41 are:

o Authentication, Registration and Location Management o Call Delivery o Short Message Service (SMS) o Mobile Originations

Internationalization of ANSI-41

ANSI-41 is often criticized for its international roaming capabilities. This was a valid criticism in the mid-1990's, but since then ANSI-41 has been upgraded with international roaming capabilities that make it fully equivalent with GSM. Some of the capabilities that have been added are:

o Support for international digit strings in IS-41 Revision C (1996) o Support for International Mobile Subscription Identifiers (IMSI) in TIA/EIA/IS-

751 (1998). o Assignment of International Roaming MIN's by IFAST (1998). o Support for SS7 global titles in TIA/EIA/IS-807 (1999). o Enhancements for calling number identification, '+' code dialing and callback

(2001).

Although the roaming capabilities of ANSI-41 and GSM are largely comparable, there are some ways in which ANSI-41 is superior:

o Call forward no-answer/busy can be handled more efficiently by ANSI-41 systems. Calls are forwarded from the home system, with the connection to the serving system being released. GSM systems forward from the serving system, often resulting in calls looping from home system to serving system and back to the home system.

o Inter-system handoff is supported more efficiently in ANSI-41. It is performed directly by neighboring MSC's, without requiring a special gateway MSC, as in GSM.

o ANSI-41 supports mobiles that can operate in multiple technologies (e.g. analog and CDMA).

o Authentication of mobiles can be done locally. In GSM authentication calculations must be performed by the AC, requiring one transfer of authentication data for every call. In practice, GSM carriers often avoid this, which reduces the level of security that their systems provide.

What is SS7?

Telephony networks contain many highly computerized elements, that need to communicate by sending messages. This is known as signaling. SS7 (Signaling System Number 7) is a digital signaling system that connects the telephony network together. It has largely replaced older, tone-based signaling systems, particularly in the core network. SS7 is ideally suited for transporting ANSI-41 messages. It has the ability to transport messages between any two points on the network (e.g. between an MSC and an HLR) quickly, reliably and because it is purely packet oriented, without setup delay. SS7 messages are addressed either by point-code (a unique numeric address assigned to every telephony network) or by global title (use of a telephony-oriented address, such as a calling card number, IMSI or phone number). The point-code corresponds to the IP address on the internet (it even has a subsystem number that corresponds to the port number used by TCP and other

higher-level IP protocols) and the global title corresponds to a domain name.

Most ANSI-41 networks either use the ANSI SS7 network, or have a method of directly addressing ANSI point codes. Use of global titles is a future development.

Roaming with GSM

The other major network standard in the world is the GSM MAP, that supports the GSM radio interface. GSM roaming is usually done with a SIM, a Subscriber Identity Module, also known as UIM or 'Smart Card'. Originally, the SIM was credit-card sized, but now it is just a computer chip packaged so that it can be safely removed. Roaming with a SIM requires removing it from your phone at home and then placing it in a rented phone at your destination. Because your subscription identity (IMSI) is on the SIM, billing will be to the same account. Taking your phone would seem to be more convenient, but is not possible if the destination country uses different frequencies, or even requires different plugs or voltages for your charger.

Many CDMA companies are implementing SIM-roaming with GSM systems, or even putting a SIM in their own phones. If a CDMA phone does not support a SIM, the CDMA carrier can still provide them to their customers for use when they roam in countries that only support GSM systems.

Future Challenges

No system is perfect, and although ANSI-41 international roaming provides a high level of service, there are still has some improvements that should be made. Most of these have already been incorporated in standards, but still remain to be implemented by carriers. Some of the major future challenges for this network are:

o Transition to global title. This will simplify routing between network elements in different countries. Current international roaming systems work well, but cannot use standard international SS7 signaling gateways.

o International TLDN (Temporary Local Directory Number). This is very important to routing and should be an internationally formatted phone number, as allowed by IS-41-C and TIA/EIA-41-D. The use of national numbers requires some complex digit translations.

o Transition to IMSI (International Mobile Station Identity). The use of IMSI will allow each country to assign identifiers to its mobile phones independently. The use of the IRM (International Roaming MIN) requires coordination of each block of one million mobile identifiers through the International Forum on ANSI-41 Standards Technology (IFAST) organization.

o Roaming with GSM. Several groups are working at improving the services that can be provided to subscribers who roam from a CDMA area, including the GSM Global Roaming Forum (GGRF) G-95 group. This involves interworking of signaling (ANSI-41 and GSM MAP's) as well as billing issues and many business and implementation issues.

How did ANSI-41 Evolve?

ANSI-41 has grown incrementally through a number of major revisions. Between each revision a number of application-specific interim standards (IS's) have been produced. The major revisions are:

o 1983 - AMPS analog cellular started commercial service as standalone systems in Chicago and Washington/Baltimore. It quickly spread throughout the US, into Canada and into other countries. This provided a single standard cellular protocol while Europe had a large number of incompatible standards, each available in only a handful of countries.

o 1988 - IS-41 Rev. 0 provided inter-system handoff and subscriber validation capabilities. These capabilities were not, in the grand scheme of things, all that important. What was important was that inter-system operations were a reality. They worked and worked well. This standard was published in 1988 and the first field trials were in 1989.

o 1991 - IS-41 Rev. A added true networking, through the use of SS7 protocols, and the all-important capabilities of location management (letting the HLR know where a mobile is), call delivery, subscriber validation and profile transfer. It was published in January, 1991.

o 1991 - IS-41 Rev. B was an incremental release over Revision A. The most important advance was to add forward/backward compatibility capabilities to ensure that a mixture of revision levels could co-exist. This was published in December, 1991 and is still in widespread use in systems that just did basic roaming capabilities - making and receiving calls.

o 1993 - The first CDMA digital standard (IS-95 Revision 0) was published. IS-41 was quickly adapted to provide support for CDMA systems. Although there were now two different digital systems in North America (CDMA and TDMA), nationwide coverage was ensured by dual-mode analog/digital phones, with seamless roaming provided by IS-41.

o 1996 - IS-41 Rev. C was a major advance over previous revisions, including the ability to incorporate 'Intelligent Network'-like capabilities. This allows the development of services such as PBX-dialing extended worldwide. By querying the HLR, an MSC anywhere can translate an office extension into the real telephone number on a subscriber-by-subscriber basis. Itwas published in 1996. This version incorporated further support for CDMA digital systems.

o 1997 - TIA/EIA-41 Rev. D was the first version to be approved by ANSI. It included only incremental improvements over IS-41-C. It was published in 1997.

o 2002 - TIA/EIA-41 Rev. E is nearing completion. Several parts of this very large standard are already being balloted. It further extends the international capabilities of ANSI-41. It includes many enhancements, but notably incorporates IS-751 (IMSI) and IS-807 (global title recommendations), as well as the Wireless Intelligent Network (WIN), Calling Name presentation, data services, over-the-air programming and other capabilities that are currently available as separate IS documents

o 2002/3 - TIA/EIA-41 Rev. F is being planned. It is likely that this will have enhancements to support better interworking with GSM, packet data support and location-based services.

About the Author

David Crowe is the editor of Cellular Networking Perspectives and Wireless Security Perspectives, monthly technical bulletins available by subscription. He is a well known wireless standards consultant, and is a columnist for the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association's magazine Wireless Telecom.

CDMA Authentication commands descriptionRun CAVEGenerate Key/VPMBase Station ChallengeUpdate SSDConfirm SSDStore ESN

Below in this article we will go through CDMA CAVE atuhentication.Initial card values are as follows (some of them will change during authentication process):

Start Values

IMSI 255074400077067

UIMID A1A2A3A4

SSD A 0000000000000000

SSD B 0000000000000000

A-KEY 0102030405060708

Run CAVE

This command is used to produce an Authentication response. The GET RESPONSE command shall be used to get the response data. If the SAVE_REGISTER flag is set, some values of the cave algorithm are held in the card to be used by the GENERATE KEY VPM command. For the calculation of the AUTHR/AUTHU value, the card uses the "Auth_Signature" procedure:

Syntax

CLA INS P1 P2 Lc

A0 88 00 00 11

Data

Bytes Description Length

1 RANDTYPE 1

(RAND/RANDU)

2-5 RAND or RANDU 4

6 Digits Length 1

7-9 Digits 3

10 Process control 1

11-17 ESN (of the ME) 7

Response

Bytes Description Length

1-3

The 18-bitauthentication

signature(AUTHR/AUTHU)

value

3

Example

.DEFINE %RAND32 00000064

.DEFINE %DIG_LEN 00

.DEFINE %DIGITS 000000

.DEFINE %ESN 000000A1A2A3A4

.DEFINE %AUTH 006422

; .DEFINE %PIN1 30303030 FFFFFFFF

.POWER_ON

; A020 0001 08 %PIN1 (9000) ; verify PIN1

A0A4 0000 02 3F00 (9FXX) ; select MFCommand A0 A4 00 00 02Data In 3F 00Data Out Status 9F 22

A0A4 0000 02 7F25 (9FXX) ; select DF_CDMACommand A0 A4 00 00 02Data In 7F 25Data Out Status 9F 22

A088 0000 11 00 %RAND32 %DIG_LEN %DIGITS 00 %ESN (9F03) ; run CAVECommand A0 88 00 00 11Data In 00 00 00 00 64 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 A1 A2 A3 A4Data Out

Status 9F 03

A0C0 0000 03 [%AUTH] (9000)Command A0 C0 00 00 03Data InData Out 00 64 22Status 90 00

;; it is now time for 'Generate Key/VPM' or for 'Base Station Challenge'

Generate Key/VPM

This command generates "key bits" and a "VPM key bits". Part of the VPM key bit is given as response to the ME.

Syntax

CLA INS P1 P2 Lc

A0 8E 00 00 02

Data

Bytes Description Length

1First octet of VPM to

be output1

2Last octet of VPM to

be output1

Response

Bytes Description Length

1-8 Key 8

9-* VPM Key part *

(*) the number of VPM bytes varies as specified by command parameter.

Example

;; run Cave just executed

.DEFINE %KEY 933A0DC379956849

.DEFINE %VPM C2264FC8D8D0

A08E 0000 02 3B40 (9F0E) ; Generate Key/VPMCommand A0 8E 00 00 02Data In 3B 40Data Out Status 9F 0E

A0C0 0000 0E [%KEY %VPM] (9000) ; 8 bytes %KEY, 6 bytes %VPMCommand A0 C0 00 00 0EData In Data Out 93 3A 0D C3 79 95 68 49 C2 26 4F C8 D8 D0Status 90 00

.POWER_OFF

Base Station Challenge

This command is used to generate the RANDBS random value.The random value is held until a successful UPDATE SSD, otherwise it is lost.The GET RESPONSE command shall be used to get the response data of this command.

Syntax

CLA INS P1 P2 Lc

A0 8A 00 00 04

Data

Bytes Description Length

1-4 RANDseed 4

Response

Bytes Description Length

1-4 RANDBS 4

Example

;; run Cave just executed

A08A 0000 04 11223344 (9F04) ; Base Station ChallengeCommand A0 8A 00 00 04Data In 11 22 33 44Data OutStatus 9F 04

A0C0 0000 04 (9000)Command A0 C0 00 00 04Data InData Out 33 2F F9 DFStatus 90 00

;; and now - time for 'Update SSD', 'Confirm SSD'

Update SSD

This command performs the calculation of a new Shared Secret Data (AUTHBS, SSD_A_NEW and SSD_B_NEW). These values are held until a successful CONFIRM SSD, otherwise they are lost. The card uses either ESN or UIMID (stored in EFUIMID) depending on the value stored in EF R-UIMID:

Syntax

CLA INS P1 P2 Lc

A0 84 00 00 0F

Data

Bytes Description Length

1-7 RANDSSD 7

8 Process Control 1

9-15 ESN 7

Response: 9000

Example

;; Base Station Challenge just executed

.DEFINE %RANDBS R

.DEFINE %AUTH 00750D

.DEFINE %RANDSSD F24F2B0A9983D3

A0 84 00 00 0F %RANDSSD 00 %ESN (9000) ; Update SSDCommand A0 84 00 00 0FData In F2 4F 2B 0A 99 83 D3 00 00 00 00 A1 A2 A3 A4Data Out Status 90 00

;; and, finally, Confirm SSD

Confirm SSD

This command is used to validate the new Shared Secret Data (SSD_A_NEW and SSD_B_NEW) by comparing the AUTHBS value calculated by the UPDATE SSD command with the AUTHBS received from the system. If successful, SSD_A and SSD_B values are updated in EF SSD.

Example

;; Update SSD just executed

A0 82 00 00 03 %AUTH (9000) ; Confirm SSDCommand A0 82 00 00 03Data In 00 75 0DData OutStatus 90 00

.POWER_OFF

Store ESN

This command is used to store the ESN of the ME into the EF ESN_ME file and return a flag indicating if ESN_ME is different from the previous ESN which was stored in EFESN_ME. It modifies the value stored in the EF R-UIMID. No modification are involved if the file is invalidated. EF R-UIMID is always 0x00 (Usage Indicator Preference is RFU).

Syntax

CLA INS P1 P2 Lc

A0 DE 00 00 08

Data

Bytes Description Length

1ESN_ME Lengthand ME Usage

Indicator Preference1

2 - (X+1) ESN_ME X

(X+2) - 8 Padding bytes 8-(X+1)

Response

Bytes Description Length

1Change Flag and Usage Indicator

Confirmation1

EUIMID Migration: How To

Overview

Existing hardware identifiers, ESN (Electronic Serial Number) and UIMID (User Identity Module Identifier), are almost completely depleted

A replacement mobile device hardware identifier is available – MEID (Mobile Equipment Identifier)

A replacement RUIM (Removable User Identification Module) identifier is available – EUIMID (Expanded UIMID)

Networks need to be upgraded to support these new identifiers New devices, such as phones and RUIMs must be capable of supporting these new

identifiers Operators must provision phones, RUIMs, back office systems and network databases

with the new identifiers

New Identifier: EUIMID

EUIMID – New identifier designed to address the exhaust of the UIMID resource Two different formats of EUIMID

o Short Form EUIMID (SF_EUIMID)– Share the same address space as the MEID. RUIM card manufacturers are allocated MEID manufacturer codes in the same manner, and from the same range, as handset manufacturers

o Long Form EUIMID (LF_EUIMID)– This is equal to the value of the ICCID of the card

SF_EUIMID: Short Form EUIMID

SF_EUIMID – 56 bits identifier based on the MEID format

When the SF_EUIMID is used, bit 2 of the Usage Indicator describes whether the SF_EUIMID of the card replaces the MEID of the device wherever it is used

It is recommended that RUIMs be provisioned to provide not only a pUIMID but also the SF_EUIMID to override the phone’s MEID. This will, however, not allow EIR (Equipment Identity Register) capabilities

Advantages Disadvantages

o Familiarity- SF_EUIMID represents a minimum change from current operation, where the UIMID overrides the device ESN

o Retrievable- Available from MS in either the Status Response Message, or the Extended Protocol Capability Response Message (both methods require the device itself to have an MEID)

o Common Identifier- Both the card and device can be managed by a commonly formatted and administered 56 bit identifier

o Card requirement- Cards which do not support SF_EUIMID will not be able to override the device MEID

o Stolen Phone- Device MEID is unlikely to be transmitted to the network, it is not possible to take advantage of the new X.S0008 CheckMEID operation to track lost/stolen phones through communications with an EIR

LF_EUIMID: Long Form EUIMID

LF_EUIMID – 72 bits identifier based on the ICCID format

The ICCID already exists on all RUIMs for all technologies

Advantages Disadvantages

o Simplicity- ICCID already existed in the card- No new storage requirements in terms of files on the RUIM to support LF_EUIMID- Administration procedures are already established for ICCID

o Backward compatibility- As no new data structure, current cards (that may not support C.S0023-C) can simply have pUIMID programmed into the EFRUIMID file on the cards

o EIR Support- Device MEID remains available to the network, use of LF_EUIMID allows the implementation of an Equipment

o Not retrievable- This can have impact on OTASP session, where there may be a need to receive a unique card identifier in order to access card specific information- New standards is currently in progress to retrieve the LF_EUIMID over the air

o Long Identifier- 72 bit ICCID, if used to track the card, will require separate handling from the device MEIDs

o Manufacturer Code Limitations- Countries with 3 digit telephony country codes are restricted to only 100 unique manufacturer codes. 2

Identity Register to track/block lost/stolen device

digits – 1000, 1 digit – 10,000

pUIMID (Pseudo-UIMID)

pUIMID – A 32 bits identifier derived from EUIMID (either Short or Long Form), used in place of the UIMID

pUIMID consists of an 8 bit reserved manufacturer’s code (Hex 80) and a 24 bit hashed EUIMID

Derivation of the pUIMID

Provide 16,777,216 pUIMID from this method

The pUIMID is derived from the EUIMID in the same manner as the pESN is derived from the MEID (therefore shares the same space as the pESN)

Authentication

Authentication is performed on the basis of the pUIMID.

The SF_EUIMID, if included, will not be used for authentication calculations.

A-KEY checksum calculations should use the pUIMID as an input for verification.

What is USSD

Source: TruTeq University

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a unique service for mobile networks comprised of two-directional session-based exchange of unstructured data in GSM mobile networks. USSD technology is defined in GSM standard 02.90 (USSD Stage 1) and 03.90 (USSD Stage 2). The USSD service supports high-speed real-time information exchange between subscriber and service application. Originally, Supplementary Services Data was designed for use where supplementary services such as call forwarding or multiparty calls were needed. For instance, a call-forwarding option is needed for all incoming calls. Such service can be activated by this command: **21*#. There is a whole set of preset commands for call-forwarding and for other purposes that work on all GSM telephones. Combinations that have not been reserved can be used for other services.

The USSD bearer is accessed by calling a number that starts with an asterisk (star) or gate (hash) characters ("*" or "#") and then a combination of numerals, asterisks and finally a gate or hash character "#". A handset recognizes such numbers and useë the USSD bearer instead of a voice call. Instead of calling another subscriber or a service, the handset communicates with the USSD infrastructure. The subscriber does not have to get special software for the handset or special SIM cards to be able to use USSD.

Unstructured Supplementary Service Data is a capability of all GSM phones. It is generally associated with real-time phone services. There is no store-and-forward functionality typical of 'normal' short messages (in other words, an SMSC is not used in processing). Response times for interactive USSD based services are generally quicker than those used for SMS. After entering a USSD code on your GSM handset, reply from an GSM operator is displayed within a few seconds. USSD Phase 1 only supports mobile initiated operation (pull operation). USSD Phase 2 specified supports network initiated operation (pull and push operations). Therefore, Phase 2 provides for interactive dialogues.

GSM handsets supported USSD from the first days of GSM. Phase 2 has been supported for years and over 99% of handsets currently in use can use USSD sessions. Our technical support department agrees that almost all telephones support USSD. There are, however, exceptions: for instance, old Siemens phones display USSD-messages as a moving line that severely limits interaction with the USSD menu (and if the subscriber does not know she will not understand what to do).

Most handsets also support NI USSD (network initiated USSD), also called "USSD Push". With NI USSD, the network can push information to the subscriber's handset. Where is USSD push used? USSD push does not manifest itself (the phone will not ring, make sounds or vibrate) so that in order to get a message a user has to look at the display at the very moment USSD push has come. Therefore, USSD push is used in mixed services: a user sends an SMS or makes a call and in return gets a USSD menu.

Another important fact about USSD is that messages from handsets to the numbers 100-149 always route to the home network. This means that if you are roaming in another network, dialing a USSD number from 100 to 149 on your phone will always route to the application on your home network. If you are used to accessing a particular service in your home network, then you will also be able to access it from another country. USSD codes other than within 100 and 150 are routed at discretion of a guest network.

USSD compared to SMSUSSD differs from the other short message bearer, SMS, in a number of significant ways.

It is not a store-and-forward bearer like SMS, but a transparent session-based bearer ideal for transacting. Information is delivered and responses obtained in real-time. Simply put, USSD is similar to speaking to someone on a phone as SMS is sending a letter.

USSD is also not a point-to-point bearer such as SMS. One subscriber cannot send another text using USSD unless there is a special network application offering such an application.

One can send 182 characters using USSD, but SMS only allows for 140 x 8-bit, or 160 x 7-bit characters.

Like SMS, USSD uses the GSM control channels for data transfer. SMS and USSD both use the SDCCH (stand-alone dedicated control channel) when the handset is not in a call. When the handset is busy with a call, USSD will use the FACCH (fast associated control channel) with a significant improvement in transfer speed (1000 bits/second).

This use of the SDCCH channel leads to the one drawback with USSD. Because the SDCCH channel is also used by GSM for call-setup, many open USSD sessions may limit new call-setups in congested networks. In practise, this doesn't happen often and GSM Network Operatorss can upgrade the radio resources in highly congested cells to prevent this from happening.

Unlike SMS, the subscriber does not have to create a message. The USSD call string can even be stored in the phone book under a name. Some applications will also allow menu shortcuts where the subscriber can add the menu item selection after an "*" seperation character. In our earlier example, the user might create a phonebook entry call "Pretoria Weather" with the number *150*1234*12*3#. The additional "*3" denotes menu selection 3.

On a GSM network level, the USSD Gateway is defined as a gsmSCF (GSM Service Control Function), whereas an SMSC is defined as another HLR (Home Location Register).

Routing and RatingHistorically, USSD Gateways have extremely limited routing and billing functionality and are limited to signalling. "Routing and Rating" platforms need to be added to the USSD Gateway to deconcentrate the connectivity to hundreds of application and content providers.

When subscribers dial the published USSD strings, the Routing and Rating platform routes the sessions to the correct application via an interface such as XML over HTP, SMPP3.4, or SSMI.

The application must accept the session and serve the appropriate menu to the subscriber. The Routing and Rating platform maintains the session and will generate billing tickets for the billing system for post-paid subscribers and reserve funds and debit prepaid accounts. Depending on the sophistication of the Routing and Rating platform, the subscriber can be billed based on a once-off cost, the number of menu transactions, or the time spent browsing the menus.

Due to the fact that an open USSD session takes up network resources, the time-based model is usually deployed and subscribers are encouraged to browse the menus quickly. For roaming subscribers, the service code is always sent back to the home network.

ApplicationsThe menus are served by applications. This may not be at the GSM network operator, but at a content provider connected to the USSD infrastructure. Applications or content can therefore be served from:

Standard supplementary services GSM Network Operators value-added services Third party content and application providers

Standard supplementary services

The supplementary services are the standard offerings as described by the ETSI standards. These services are accessed by the handset without the need for the subscriber to know the codes. When the subscriber selects an action on the handset's internal menu, the handset will communicate with the GSM.

Even though the handset hides the complexities in accessing the supplementary services, it is still possible to access them directly using USSD.

One example of such a service is call forwarding. The service codes associated with call forwarding service, are 004, 21, 61, 62 and 67:

Service All Calls If No Reply If Unavailable If BusyAll

Conditional Diverts

Forwarding**21*[dest number]#

**61*[dest number]#

**62*[dest number]#

**67*[dest number]#

**004*[dest number]#

Activate *21# *61# *62# *67# *004#

Deactivate #21# #61# #62# #67# #004#

Delete ##21# ##61# ##62# ##67# ##004#

Check Status *#21# *#61# *#62# *#67# *#004#

These service codes are fixed and all GSM handsets will be able to use them to provision the relevant supplementary services.

GSM Network Operator services

These services include value-adding services such as airtime top-up, airtime transfer, call-back services and prepaid roaming. The Network Operator service codes depend on the routing inside the GSM Network Operators and may be anything in the range 1XY, where X = 1,2,3,4 and Y=1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9

As an example, a call-back service to alert subscriber 0855551234 that another subscriber want to be called, might be *120*0855551234#

The menu items could also be embedded in the dial string, so that an airtime transfer string might look like: *123*1234*2*0855551234# where "1234" is the pin number, "2" is the menu item for airtime transfer, and "0855551234" is the target number.

Third Party Content and Services - application examples

By connecting to the routing and rating platform on a USSD Gateway, third parties can offer services to all the subscribers on a GSM network.

Some examples of USSD applications include: Information services such as weather forecasts, traffic, news, geo-location services,

directory services etc. Entertainment services such as games, sports etc. Lifestyle services such as dating, horoscopes etc. Financial services such as airtime top-up, banking etc.

R-UIM Tool

Cave: Tool verifies Cave authentication, Update SSD, Confirm SSD commands

CDMA2000: Tool verifies Compute IP 3GPD commands: HRPD, Simple IP, Mobile IP authentication commands

Scan R-UIM: Performs R-UIM scan to build card file tree structure, and 3GPP2 standard compliance

CDMA ST: Check the integrity of card and CDMA service table

PRL: Update PRL, Extended PRL on the card

Others... Additional features like to calculate CDMA specific parameters (IMSI_M, A-KEY crc, 3GPD Shared Secrets, etc)

USIM Tool: The tool now has many useful functions to work with (U)SIM cards

1.5.16.185 Current version released 08-FEB-2011.

Professional CDMA, GSM, UMTS support and consulting

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xOTA: Over-The-Air Tools and Services

xOTA: PC software to create and test GSM 03.48 Envelopecard functionality

Platform: We develope and run OTA capmaign according to your requiremets

Flexibility: GSM 03.48 standard, proprietary solution, and CDMA standard supported

Pilot: We are always open to perform a pilot, fast and reliable

Cost Effective: Rent or Buy? You can choose any option to satisfy your needs the best way

Network Access: xOTA tool supports network card readers over TCP/IP

Questions? Contact us!

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APDU Logger and Analyzer

Visualization: It is an analysis tool that visualises the data exchanges between a Smart Card and Smart Card Reader (i.e. mobile handset, POS terminal, etc), with a

very deep level of interpretation

Debugging: The tool helps in debugging and analysing Smart Card communications

1.0.5.42 Current version released 29-NOV-2010.

00112 Current firmware build

Try and Buy: Contact us and we discuss possibility of sending you the hardware to try it.

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2G + 3G/4G Auhtentication

All Standard Algos: Powerful COMP128-1, COMP128-2, COMP128-3 and MILENAGE calculation

Xor: Test AKA (aka XOR) algorithm is also supported

Commands: Tool executes and verifies 2G and 3G Authentication commands, including Run GSM Algo, 2G Virtual Context, and 3G Synchronisation Failure

APDU Scripts: Detailed Authentication APDU scripts available for exploration

Easy to use: Two-click card Authentication

Standard: 3GPP Specifications compliant

4G: KASME derivation is now supported

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Cipher Box

DES: DES and Triple DES (ECB, CBC) encryption and decryption

AES: AES (Rijndael) 128-bit key encryption and decryption

Hash: MD5 and SHA1 hash calculation

RSA: RSA key generation, Encryption, Decryption, Signing and Sign Verification

Others: Simple but yet powerfull ASCII expand/collapse, EMV MAC, XOR

calculations

GSM: 7-bit GSM Packing and Unpaking functionality

HMAC: Keyed hashes (MD5, SHA-1, SHA256) have been implemented

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cap2java: javacard decompiler

Decompiler: Reconstructs .java source code from .cap file

Flexibility: Different levels of source code optimization

Smart: Intellectual analisys for naming of valiables, arrays and functions

Javacard 2.1.1: Javacard Virtual Machine v. 2.1.1 .cap file format supported

Javacard 2.2: Will be available soon

Final java: .java source code is ready to be compiled again

Coming soon: cap2java will be available in November 2010

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APDU Script Assistant & Network Reader

Network Access: Network access to any PC/SC compliant smart card reader over TCP/IP stack

Script Assistant: Powerfull APDU script Assistant to edit, manage and run APDU scripts on local or network reader

At-Hand-Commands: Tool stores most frequently used script in database to be always ready executed (like Select MF - Get Response, or Change PIN1)

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Roaming

Wireless customers have become accustomed to staying connected anywhere they go, including when traveling internationally. The CDMA2000 community is rapidly expanding its roaming capabilities and services to meet customers’ needs. CDMA2000 operators offer roaming on all continents and are leading the way in providing roaming services across different wireless standards.

What is Roaming?

Roaming is the ability to use a wireless device outside the home service area, including in foreign countries. Enabling roaming involves providing back-end services that recognize authorized “roamers” and allow them to use their home network services while on the visited network. Truly universal roaming requires handsets capable of multiple technologies and/or are designed to operate in different bands of the radio spectrum. With the growing adoption of data, especially Third Generation (3G) data services, providing seamless connectivity to home content while roaming is becoming increasingly important.

Roaming applies to domestic and international markets.

Domestic roaming is where customers roam from their home network to other networks within the same country.

International roaming allows users of wireless devices to travel to a foreign country and enjoy many of the same services they have in their home service area.

International Roaming on CDMA

CDMA2000 operators offer international roaming to their customers in major travel destinations either through agreements with other CDMA (cdmaOneTM and CDMA2000) operators, WCDMA or GSM carriers. CDMA2000 operators have taken the lead in offering true global roaming by introducing multi-mode, multi-band phones that work on GSM and CDMA networks.

With nearly 300 networks in over 100 countries, CDMA has the presence in key global markets to support international roaming. CDMA to CDMA roaming is available in many countries across North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia and the Middle East. Many CDMA2000 operators have also established agreements with GSM operators, enabling them to offer international roaming in GSM markets. With the introduction of WorldModeTM multi-mode, multi-band phones, CDMA2000 operators can now provide transparent roaming across CDMA2000 and GSM networks with a single device.

The CDG has established the International Roaming Team (IRT) to lead the industry’s effort in providing subscribers with the ability to enjoy the benefits of CDMA service globally. The charter of the team is to develop tools and recommend best practices to assist operators in the deployment, maintenance and marketing of international roaming services.

Abstract:This invention relates to a method and apparatus to provide Short Message Services (SMS) provisioning when different SS7 signaling networks are in use. The method can be used when mobile units are roaming in a SS7 network different than the MS home network, and when the

MS is roaming inside or outside of its SS7 type of network.The HLR, which includes a memory for storing a database of point code schemes and country codes, also stores all location data for the MSC including the SMS Address and the MSCIN. The HLR analyzes the SMS Address to determine the nationality of the MSC. The HLR compares the MSC's REGNOT point code and MSCIN country code with the country code in the MC's SMSREQ calling party address to determine whether the MC and MSC point codes are the same. If they are the same, the smsreq is populated with the common point code from the SMS Address. If not the same, the smsreq is populated with the MSCIN parameter.Claims:

1. A method in a Home Location Register for Short Message Services (SMS) provisioning in a system including a Message Center (MC), and a Mobile Switching Center-Visitor Location Register (MSC-VLR), the method comprising the steps of: receiving a Registration Notification (REGNOT) message, containing address information associated with a mobile station (MS), from the MSC-VLR, storing a SMS address and Mobile Switching Center Identification (MSCIN) of the MS; comparing a country code in the MSCIN with a country code in a calling party address of the MC; determining whether the MC and the MSC share a common point code scheme; selectively populating a SMS Request Return Result (smsreq) relative to said REGNOT message with a common point code from the SMS address if the MSC and MC share the same point code schemes or populating said smsreq with the MSCIN if the MSC and MC do not share the same point code scheme; and forwarding said smsreq to said MC.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the MSCIN parameter is in Global Title Address (GTA) format.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein said GTA format uses an E.212 identifier. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein said GTA format uses an E.164 identifier. 5. The method of claim 2, wherein said GTA format uses a combination of said E.212 and E.164

identifiers. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein said HLR has a database including at least one country code

and at least one corresponding point code scheme. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein said point code scheme is specified according to American

National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard-41. 8. The method of claim 6, wherein said point code scheme is specified according to International

Telecommunication Union (ITU) standard Q.700. 9. The method of claim 6, wherein the step of comparing the MC point code scheme with the

MSC point code scheme occurs in said database in said HLR. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of determining the MC point code scheme further

includes the step of determining a nationality of the MC. 11. A home location register (HLR) in a system further comprising a Messaging center (MC), a

Mobile Switching Center, the HLR comprising: a database for storing a Short Message Service address and Mobile Switching Center Identification (MSCIN) of a Mobile Station; receiver means for receiving a request from said Messaging Center to deliver a SMS message to said MSC and for receiving a Registration Notification (REGNOT) message from the MSC-VLR containing address information associated with a mobile station (MS), means for comparing a country code in the MSCIN with a country code in a calling party address of the MC; means for determining whether the MC and the MSC share a common point code scheme; means for selectively populating a SMS request response (smsreq) relative to said REGNOT message with

a common point code from the SMS address if the MSC and MC share the same point code schemes or populating said smsreq with the MSCIN if the MSC and MC do not share the same point code scheme; and means for forwarding said smsreq to said MC.

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Technical Field This invention relates generally to Short Message Service operations in mobile cellular

telecommunication networks. More particularly, this invention relates to a method to provide Short Message Service (SMS) services to mobile units roaming in a Signaling System #7 (SS7) network different from the Mobile Station (MS) home network.

2. History of Related Art The Short Message Service (SMS) provides a means of sending text messages, containing up to

160 alphanumeric characters, to and from mobile stations. SMS makes use of a Message Center (MC), which acts as a store and forward center for short messages. The performance of different telecommunication network entities during an SMS operation is described in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-41 telecommunications standard, including the SMS Delivery Point to Point (DPTP) operation. This operation is defined as “a general purpose operation that is used to convey a short message or in general any other information or encapsulated data from one point to another point and report on the success or failure of that transfer.”

When a MS registers at a Mobile Switching Center-Visitor Location Register (MSC-VLR), the MSC-VLR sends a Registration Notification Invoke (REGNOT) message to the Home Location Register (HLR). This message contains the address of the MSC currently serving the MS. This information is used by the HLR to find the MS. The MSC-VLR may provide the following ANSI-41 parameters in the REGNOT message: Point Code-Subsystem Number (PC-SSN), MSCIdentification (MSCID), MSCIdentificationNumber (MSCIN), and the SMS Address. Additionally, the Signaling Connection Control Part (SCCP) address information, such as Point Code or Global Title Address (GTA), may be used by the HLR to locate the MS.

When a Short Message Entity (SME) receives a request to deliver an SMS, the SME sends the SMSDPTP Invoke message to the MC. When the destination of the Short Message is a MS, the MC requests the address of the serving MSC from the HLR. This may be accomplished using an ANSI-41 SMS Request Invoke (SMSREQ) message. Since the HLR already has the information regarding the MS location, it will respond to the SMSREQ message with the serving MSC Address. The address of the serving MSC (SMSC) is provided to the MC in the SMS Request Return Result (smsreq) in the ANSI-41 parameter “SMS Address.”

This SMS Address may be the SMS Address parameter received in response to the REGNOT message, or the PC SSN, or the MSCID translated into a PC SSN, or even the lower layer SCCP information received during registration. With such information, the MC is able to send the SMS to the MSC, and the MSC forwards it to the MS via air interface, (typically TDMA or CDMA). The HLR can also provide the MS's Serving MSC Address using a SMS Notification (SMSNOT) message. This message is used when the MS is inactive at the time the HLR receives a SMSREQ message.

The preferred way to provide the SMS Address in the smsreq message is for the HLR to use the same SMS Address parameter received at REGNOT. Currently, the use of alternate addresses such as the MSCID, the PC-SSN, or the MSCIN to provide the SMS Address has disadvantages.

For example, using the MSCID received during registration requires translation to a point code by the HLR, so its use may not be recommended. Using the PC-SSN parameter, or the lower layer address, may point to the VLR instead of the MSC when the MSC and VLR are different entities, thus creating confusion. Finally, the MSCIN parameter is not currently used by the HLR for SMS purposes, and is mainly used to let the HLR know that the MSC is International Roaming capable.

The SMS Address parameter has been modified in various usage standards, and it is suggested to use an E.212 address (taken from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Recommendation E.212 “International Identification Plan for Mobile Terminals and Mobile Users”, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) for international SMS message routing, and either an SS7 point code address or an E.212 address for national scenarios. When the MSC determines that the MS is roaming into a different SS7 network, the MSC may include its own E.212 address number in the SMS Address parameter in the REGNOT message. In this case, the HLR will populate the same SMS Address in the smsreq response message. This method is efficient for an international scenario, that is, when the MSC and MC are not connected by a common national signaling point code addressing scheme (i.e., utilize a different SS7 network type).

However, to provide SMS services to a national MS roaming in a different SS7 network, the MSC is required to provide the SMS Address with a Global Title Address (GTA) during registration, i.e., an E.212 GTA or E.164 (the ITU Recommendation E.164 “The International Public Telecommunication Numbering Plan”, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) GTA identifier, or a combination of these two identifiers. When a national roaming MS registers with the MSC, the MSC will typically provide a PC address in the SMS Address parameter in the REGNOT message (or the smsreq response). The HLR will store this address and provide it when a MC requests the address. However, a problem with this scenario occurs if the MC that issues the SMSREQ is in a different SS7 network type than the HLR (and therefore the S-MSC). The smsreq response from the HLR will include a PC in the SMS address provided by the MSC that is not recognized by the MC as the intended SMS address. Therefore, the SMSDPTP operation will not be possible.

Therefore, what is needed is a method which allows the HLR to determine the proper address for the MSC (or VLR) serving the roaming MS when requested by an external node. This method should enable communication between the external node and the MS, MSC, or VLR, so as to provide proper addressing of SMS services to MSs roaming in an SS7 network that is different from the MS home network, and SMS reception from SS7 networks not being used by the MS.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a method and apparatus to provide SMS services when different

SS7 signaling networks are in use, both for SMS termination to mobile units roaming in an SS7 network different than the MS's home network, and for receiving SMS messages from an SS7 network different from the MS network when the MS is roaming inside or outside of its home SS7 network.

The HLR must store all relevant information related to the location of the MS, including the SMS Address and the MSCIN. The HLR must have the ability to determine which address needs to be provided to the requesting node. The SMS Address received at REGNOT will most probably contain a PC. For example, the REGNOT message contains a PC and the MSCIN, which in turn contains a country code. According to the method of the present invention, the HLR first analyzes the SMS Address for its country of origin to determine whether it is national

or international. The HLR compares the MSCIN country code with the country code in the GTA provided in the calling party address of the MC (i.e., in the SMSREQ message) to determine whether the same point code scheme is used. The country codes do not need to be the same and some countries have more than one country code. If the country code is not present, it can be assumed by the HLR that the MC is in the same country (or region) as the HLR.

Absence of a MSCIN indicates that the roaming MS is national, since all international SMS addresses have a MSCIN. However, the MSC sometimes sends the MSCIN with a national roaming MS, even though it is not necessary. For a national roaming MS, the smsreq response is populated with the common point code from the SMS Address, because the SMS Address will not have a GTA. Usually, the SMS Address will have a PC or GTA if international, and only a PC if national. The HLR has a database of country code and point code schemes [e.g., in ANSI-41 or International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Q.708 format, both incorporated herein by reference in their entirety] and knows the location of the MS and the external requesting node. The present invention allows the HLR to determine the proper address from this database for the MSC or VLR serving the MS when requested by an external node. In turn, this information enables the external node to easily address and communicate with the MS, MSC or VLR.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PRESENTLY PREFERRED EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates a prior art signal flow diagram illustrating the activity of different network entities during a SMS Delivery Point to Point operation as defined in the ANSI-41 standard. During this operation, a short message, encapsulated data, or other information is conveyed from one point to another, with a subsequent report on the success or failure of the transfer. A MS 10 supporting a SME 15 becomes known to a MSC 20 via registration or other system access in step 110. The MSC 20 sends a REGNOT message to notify the VLR 30 of the location of a MS 10 in step 120. The VLR 30 forwards the REGNOT message to the MS's 10 HLR 40 in step 130. The HLR 40 records the SMS delivery address for the MS 10 and sends a regnot response to the VLR 30 containing subscriber profile information in step 140. The VLR 30 forwards the regnot response to the serving MSC 20 in step 150.

The MC 50 then receives and accepts a SMSDPTP message requesting delivery of a SMS message from a MS-based SME 60 in step 160. The MC 50 responds with a smdptp positive acknowledgment (which may contain a SMS_BearerData parameter if there is bearer data to return) in step 170. Because the MC 50 does not have a current, temporary SMS routing address and status for the addressed MS-based SME 15, the MC 50 sends a SMSREQ message to the HLR 40 serving the MS 10 which contains the Mobile Identification Number (MIN) for the MS 10 associated with the SME 15 in step 180. If the HLR 40 does not have a current temporary SMS routing address and status for the addressed MS-based SME 15, the HLR 40 forwards the SMSREQ message to the VLR 30 serving the MS 10 in step 190. The VLR 30 forwards the SMSREQ message to the MSC 20 serving the MS 10 in step 200. The MSC 20 sends a smsreq response containing the temporary SMS routing address for the served MS 10 in step 210. The VLR 30 forwards the smsreq response to the HLR 40 in step 220. The HLR 40, in turn, sends the smsreq response to the MC 50 in step 230.

The destination MC 50 forwards the SMDPTP to the destination MSC 20 using the temporary SMS routing address for the MS-based SME 15 in step 240. The MSC 20 sends a SMS Air Interface Delivery (SMD) REQUEST to the destination SME 15 using the air interface address of the MS-based SME 15 in step 250. The destination SME 15 responds with an automatic acknowledgment (SMD-ACK) which may include the SMS_BearerData parameter if there is

data to return in step 260. The MSC 20 translates the SMD-ACK into a smdptp positive acknowledgment and returns it to the source of the corresponding SMDPTP in step 270. The smdptp may include a SMS_BearerData parameter if bearer data was provided in the destination SME 15 response.

FIG. 2 is a prior art signal flow diagram illustrating unsuccessful SMS message delivery from a MC 52 residing in a different SS7 network (i.e., international MC). A MS 10 supporting a SME 12 becomes known to a MSC 20 via registration or other system access in step 310. The MSC 20 sends a REGNOT message to notify the VLR 30 of the location of the MS 10 in step 320. The VLR 30 forwards the REGNOT message to the MS's 10 HLR 40 in step 330. The HLR 40 records the SMS delivery address for the MS 10 and sends a regnot response to the VLR 30 containing subscriber profile information in step 340. The VLR 30 forwards the regnot response to the serving MSC 20 in step 350.

The MC 52 then receives and accepts a SMDPTP message from an international originator SME 62 requesting delivery of a SMS message to the MS-based SME 12 that is from a different SS7 network in step 360. The MC 52 responds to the originator SME 62 with a smdptp positive acknowledgment (which may include a SMS_BearerData parameter if there is bearer data to return) in step 370.

If the MC 52 does not have a current, temporary SMS routing address and status for the addressed MS-based SME 12, the MC 52 then sends a SMSREQ message to the HLR 40 serving the MS 10, containing the MIN for the MS 10 associated with the SME 12 in step 380. In FIG. 2, the Border MSC 45 is used as a SS7 gateway, translating the GTA provided in the Calling and Called Party Addresses to allow communication between the two different SS7 systems. If the HLR 40 does not have a current, temporary SMS routing address and status for the addressed MS-based SME 12, the HLR 40 forwards the SMSREQ message to the VLR 30 serving the MS 10 in step 390. The VLR 30 forwards the SMSREQ message to the MSC 20 serving the MS 10 which contains the addressed SME 12 in step 400. The MSC 20 responds with a smsreq response containing the temporary SMS routing address for the served MS 10 in step 410, this address contains the PC of the Serving MSC (S-MSC) 20. The VLR 30 forwards the smsreq response to the HLR 40 in step 420, and the HLR 40 forwards the smsreq response to the MC 52 in step 430.

The Border MSC 45 translates the SCCP Global Title Addresses provided in the Called and Calling Party Address, and the destination MC 52 forwards the SMDPTP message to the destination SME 12 using the temporary SMS routing address for the MS-based SME 12 in step 440.

Since the routing of the SMSDPTP is done using Point Codes, and since the S-MSC 20 and the MC 52 are in different SS7 network types, the SMSDPTP is discarded by the Border MSC 45 (i.e., the gateway only translates GTA information).

FIG. 3 illustrates successful prior art SMS message delivery to a MS 10 roaming in a different SS7 network type (i.e., national MC). A MS 10 supporting a SME 12 becomes known to a MSC 20 via registration or other system access in step 510. The MSC 20 sends a REGNOT message to notify the VLR 30 of the location of the MS 10 in step 520. The VLR 30 forwards the REGNOT message to the MS's HLR 40 that is in a different SS7 network in step 530. This REGNOT message is sent using GTA so that the Border MSC 45 is able to translate the SCCP message header from one format to the other. The HLR 40 records the SMS delivery address for the MS 10 and responds with a regnot response to the VLR 30 containing subscriber profile information in step 540. The regnot response is sent using GTA so that the Border 45 is able to translate the

SCCP message header from one format to the other. The VLR 30 forwards the regnot response to the serving MSC 20 in step 550.

The MC 54 then receives and accepts a SMDPTP from a national originator SME 64 requesting delivery of a SMS message to the MS-based SME 12 for the MS 10 that is roaming in a different SS7 network in step 560. The MC 54 responds with a smdptp positive acknowledgment (which may include a SMS_BearerData parameter if there is bearer data to return) to the originator SME 64 in step 570.

If the MC 54 does not have a current, temporary SMS routing address and status for the addressed MS-based SME 12, the MC 54 sends a SMSREQ message to the HLR 40 serving the MS 10 which contains the addressed SME 12 in step 580. If the HLR 40 does not have a current temporary SMS routing address and status for the addressed MS-based SME 12, the HLR 40 forwards the SMSREQ message to the VLR 30 serving the MS 10 which contains the addressed SME 12 in step 590. The VLR 30 then forwards the SMSREQ message to the MSC 20 serving the MS 10 which contains the addressed SME 12 in step 600. The MSC 20 responds with a smsreq response containing the temporary SMS routing address for the served MS 10 in step 610, and the VLR 30 forwards the smsreq response to the HLR 40 in step 620. The HLR 40 then forwards the smsreq response to the MC 54 in step 630.

The destination MC 54 then sends a SMDPTP message toward the destination SME 12 using the temporary SMS routing address for the MS-based SME 12 (i.e., the GTA of the Serving MSC 20) in step 640. This is accomplished using GTA, so that the Border MSC 45 is able to translate from one SS7 format to another. The MSC 20 sends an SMD-REQUEST message to the destination SME 12 using the air interface address of the MS-based SME 12 in step 650. The destination SME 12 then responds with an automatic acknowledgment (SMD-ACK) in step 660, which may include the SMS_BearerData parameter if there is data to return. The MSC 20 translates the SMD-ACK into a smdptp positive acknowledgment and returns it to the source of the corresponding SMDPTP in step 670. The smdptp may include a SMS_BearerData parameter if bearer data was provided by the destination SME 12. The smdptp is sent using GTA.

FIG. 4 illustrates various message pathways used in implementing the method of the present invention. In general, the MS 10 accesses the telecommunication network at a node 20, such as a MSC 20, in step 710. The MSC 20 then sends a REGNOT message to the VLR 30 with its address information in step 720 (e.g., SMSADDR, MSCIN, etc.). The VLR 30 forwards the REGNOT message including the address information in step 730. The HLR 40 stores all the addresses that may be required by an external node, such as node X 70, and answers with a regnot response in step 740. The VLR 30 then forwards the response to the MSC 20 in step 750.

At some later time, an external node X 70 may require the address of the Serving MSC 20 or VLR 30 in step 760. The HLR 40 provides the proper address to the requesting node X 70 in step 770 based on its stored internal information and information acquired about the node requesting the address, including the location of the HLR 40, the location of the Serving MSC-VLR, and the location of the requesting node. The node X 70 may then send a message (e.g., Y-message) to the MSC 20 or VLR 30 where the MS 10 is registered. The Y-message is sent to the MSC 20 or VLR 30 in step 780 depending on the X-node 70 needs, using the address obtained in step 770. The MSC 20 or VLR 30 then responds to the node X 70 message in step 790.

FIG. 5 illustrates the procedure utilized by the HLR 40 to complete the smsreq response for providing SMS services according to the present invention. The HLR 40 receives a REGNOT message from the MSC 20 in step 810. The HLR 40 then stores the SMS Address and MSCIN sent by an international roaming MS 10 in step 820. The HLR 40 determines the nationality of

the MC 56 in step 830. Using the country code and point code scheme database 42 which is stored in a memory in the HLR 40, a determination is made as to whether the MC 56 and MSC 20 share the same point code scheme in step 840. If so, the HLR 40 populates the smsreq response with the common point code from the SMS Address in step 850. If not, the system populates the smsreq with the MSCIN in GTA format in step 860.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the invention as a node (HLR) 40 with a database 42 including a plurality of country codes and a corresponding plurality of point code schemes contained within a memory 41. The database 42 includes point code schemes 43 such as ANSI and ITU, as well as the country codes 44 for each country. The HLR 40 utilizes this database 42 to compare the point code schemes for the MC 56 and the MSC 20 as previously described in FIG. 5.

Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limited sense. The various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. It is, therefore, contemplated that the appended claims will cover such modifications that fall within the scope of the invention, or their equivalents.

Description of related drawings:

A more complete understanding of the structure and operation of the present invention may be had by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a prior art signal flow diagram illustrating the activity of different network entities during an SMS message delivery operation as defined in the ANSI-41 standard;

FIG. 2 is a prior art signal flow diagram illustrating successful SMS message delivery from a MC in a different SS7 network (international MC);

FIG. 3 is a prior art signal flow diagram illustrating unsuccessful SMS message delivery to a MS roaming in a different SS7 network (national MC);

FIG. 4 is a signal flow diagram illustrating various message pathways used in implementing the method of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating the procedure utilized by the HLR to respond to a SMSREQ message for SMS service provision using the method of the present invention; and

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the invention as a node having a database of country codes and point code schemes stored in a memory.

Can someone enlight me on the right way to locate the orig. MSC (orig. VPMN) in CDMA netwrok, in case MSCIN is not included ?

So far I've understand that in REGNOT message there are 2 parameters identifying MSC number :1. MSCID (mandatory) -  includes the market ID field2. MSCIN (optional) (msc identification number) - a MSC E.164 number

In case MSCID is used - what is the right way to use this parameter. Re: CDMA REGNOT The MSCID is a number that is shared amongst the signaling partners, and is unique to

the MSC (You probably already knew that).

The MSCIN is a GT based Node address, and is part of the bridging of the GSM and CDMA networks. It is still optional because I am not sure if it is used anywhere in the ANSI network for signaling.

This is an issue with mobile subscribers roaming in another network(VPLMN) apart from their own network(HPLMN) :

Scenarios:Location Update=OKAll outgoing Voice calls from Roamer=OKAll Terminating Voice calls to Roamer= Fails.SMS=all OK

A trace is taken on the failing voice calls and the last MAP Operation is 'Provide Roaming Number'.

Can anyone assist on this please?

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Wed, 03/24/2010 - 11:30 #1

pramod

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Re: Provide Roaming Number Issue

plz provide the trace if it is possible

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Wed, 03/24/2010 - 13:59 #2

csmstopher@gmail.com

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Re: Provide Roaming Number Issue

Heres a tracce:

                      SCCPUSERMessage0>    00  000000001>    6C  01101100  ..message-length:00 6C2>    15  00010101  ..msg-type:n-UNITDATA-REQ (21)                      ..direction3>    03  000000--  ....reserved1:0x0 (0)            ------1-  ....reserved2:0x1 (1)            -------1  ....message-direction:user-to-sccp (1)4>    03  00000011  ..user:map (3)                      ..msgContent                      ....n-UNITDATA-REQ                      ......sio5>    83  10------  ........networkIndicator:national-network (2)            --00----  ........spare-for-ITU-or-Message-Priority-for-ANSI:spare-or-priority-0 (0)            ----0011  ........serviceIndicator:sccp (3)6>    07  000001117>    00  00000000  ......reserved:07 008>    00  000000009>    00  00000000  ......reserved1:00 0010>    00  00000000  ......reserved2:00                      ......protocol-class11>    80  ----0000  ........classlevel:class0 (0)            1000----  ........specify-message-handling:return-message-on-error (8)                      ......udt-pdu12>    03  0000001113>    0E  0000111014>    1B  00011011 *15>    0B  00001011 L                      ........called-party-address                      ..........address-indicator16>    12  0-------  ............reserved-for-national-use:0x0 (0)            -0------  ............routing-indicator:route-on-GT (0)                      ............global-title-ssn-point-code-indicator

            --0100--  ..............global-title-indicator:global-title-includes-translation-type-numbering-plan-encoding-scheme-nature-of-address-indicator (4)            ------1-  ..............ssn-indicator:0x1 (1)            -------0  ..............point-code-indicator:0x0 (0)                      ..........called-address17>    06  00000110  ............subsystem-number:hlr (6)                      ............global-title                      ..............itut-global-title418>    00  00000000  ................translation-type:unknown (0)19>    11  0001----  ................numbering-plan:isdn-telephony-numbering-plan (1)            ----0001  ................encoding-scheme:bcd-odd-number-of-digits (1)20>    04  0-------  ................spare:0x0 (0)            -0000100  ................nature-of-address-indicator:international-number (4)                      ................global-title-address-information21>    14  0001010022>    87  1000011123>    39  0011100124>    01  0000000125>    40  0100000026>    04  00000100  ..................global-title-address-es-information:4178931004427>    0D  00001101 L                      ........calling-party-address                      ..........address-indicator28>    13  0-------  ............reserved-for-national-use:0x0 (0)            -0------  ............routing-indicator:route-on-GT (0)                      ............global-title-ssn-point-code-indicator            --0100--  ..............global-title-indicator:global-title-includes-translation-type-numbering-plan-encoding-scheme-nature-of-address-indicator (4)            ------1-  ..............ssn-indicator:0x1 (1)            -------1  ..............point-code-indicator:0x1 (1)                      ..........calling-address                      ............signalling-point-code                      ..............point-code-1429>    A4  1010010030>    10  --010000  ................point-code-14:0x10a4 (4260)            00------  ................spare:0x0 (0)31>    07  00000111  ............subsystem-number:vlr (7)                      ............itut-global-title                      ..............itut-global-title432>    00  00000000  ................translation-type:unknown (0)33>    11  0001----  ................numbering-plan:isdn-telephony-numbering-plan (1)            ----0001  ................encoding-scheme:bcd-odd-number-of-digits (1)34>    04  0-------  ................spare:0x0 (0)            -0000100  ................nature-of-address-indicator:international-number (4)                      ................global-title-address-information35>    76  01110110

36>    75  0111010137>    06  0000011038>    00  0000000039>    08  0000100040>    00  00000000  ..................global-title-address-es-information:67576000800                      ........sccp-data41>    47  01000111  ..........data-length-ind:0x47 (71)                      ..........tcap-part                      ............tcap42>    64  01100100 T43>    45  01000101 L                      ..............itu-end44>    49  01001001 T45>    04  00000100 L46>    F1  1111000147>    C4  1100010048>    10  0001000049>    33  00110011  ................dtid:F1 C4 10 3350>    6B  01101011 T51>    26  00100110 L                      ................dialoguePortion52>    28  00101000 T53>    24  00100100 L                      ..................structed-dialogue54>    06  00000110 T55>    07  00000111 L                      ....................structured-DialogueAS56>    00  00000000  ......................ccitt-recommendation:0x0 (0)57>    11  00010001  ......................q:0x11 (17)58>    86  1000011059>    05  00000101  ......................x-305:0x8605 (34309)60>    01  00000001  ......................as-1:0x1 (1)61>    01  00000001  ......................dialoguePDU-1:0x1 (1)62>    01  00000001  ......................version-1:0x1 (1)63>    A0  10100000 T64>    19  00011001 L                      ....................single-asn1-type                      ......................dialoguePDU65>    61  01100001 T66>    17  00010111 L                      ........................dialogueResponse67>    A1  10100001 T68>    09  00001001 L                      ..........................application-context-name69>    06  00000110 T70>    07  00000111 L

71>    04  0000010072>    00  0000000073>    00  0000000074>    01  0000000175>    00  0000000076>    03  0000001177>    03  00000011  ............................application-context-name:04 00 00 01 00 03 0378>    A2  10100010 T79>    03  00000011 L                      ..........................result80>    02  00000010 T81>    01  00000001 L82>    00  00000000  ............................a-result:0x0 (0): accepted83>    A3  10100011 T84>    05  00000101 L                      ..........................result-source-diagnostic                      ............................associate-source-diagnostic85>    A1  10100001 T86>    03  00000011 L                      ..............................dialogue-service-user87>    02  00000010 T88>    01  00000001 L89>    00  00000000  ................................user:0x0 (0): null90>    6C  01101100 T91>    15  00010101 L                      ................components                      ..................Component92>    A2  10100010 T93>    13  00010011 L                      ....................returnResultLast94>    02  00000010 T95>    01  00000001 L96>    00  00000000  ......................invokeID:0x0 (0)97>    30  00110000 T98>    0E  00001110 L                      ......................result                      ........................operationCode99>    02  00000010 T100>  01  00000001 L                      ..........................localOperationCode101>  04  00000100  ............................map-operation-Code:provide-roaming-number (4)102>  30  00110000103>  09  00001001104>  04  00000100105>  07  00000111106>  91  10010001

107>  76  01110110108>  75  01110101109>  06  00000110110>  20  00100000111>  95  10010101112>  F3  11110011  ........................parameter:30 09 04 07 91 76 75 06 20 95 F3

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Thu, 04/01/2010 - 11:16 #3

akhtar

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Re: Provide Roaming Number Issue

Since last message is PRN, i guess the issue can be at VPLMN , might be on gateway msc. You need to check at gateway VPLMN for the missing PRN response.

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Tue, 04/06/2010 - 13:58 #4

csmstopher@gmail.com

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Re: Provide Roaming Number Issue

You are right Akhtar, there was a blockage to HPLMN code in the VPLMN GMSC. It was open up allowing PRN to take place between the 2 plmn.

Thanks for your assistance and lead up to the solution

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Mon, 04/26/2010 - 07:16 #5

anandnokia

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Re: Provide Roaming Number Issue

it seems that MSRN of roamers serving MSC is not defined in the gateway MSC of HPLMN

my friend name

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Wed, 04/28/2010 - 10:13 #6

akhtar

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Re: Provide Roaming Number Issue

MSRNs are particular to HPLMN i guess and no seperate MSRNs are defined for any foreign MSC on HPLMN Gateway MSC.Only gateway MSC needs to define foreign VLR in its white list in order to allow it to make calls towards Home network.

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Wed, 04/28/2010 - 14:10 #7

anandnokia

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Re: Provide Roaming Number Issue

For this let's take sub A is ROAMING and the sub B in HPLMN calling the Sub A.

MSC of B Sub send the HLR enq (SRI) to get the routing info of A subscriber and receives the MSRN of A sub's serving MSC in SRI result(SRIR).

MSC(ie MSC of B sub) perfoms dig analysis on MSRN in bo= 8'th origin in case of Ericsson MSC or Tree=50 in case of nokia MSC and routes MSRN (ISUP IAM) to the destination.

So check the MSRN of Roamers MSC is opened in the SRI orginating MSC.

my friend name

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Wed, 05/26/2010 - 11:11 #8

harish

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pre paid MO forward SMS flow

hi

can anyone explain the pre=paid MO forward SMS flow

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Thu, 07/08/2010 - 07:03 #9

akhtar

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Hi, its too late late to

Hi, its too late late to respond now :) but you shoud've opened a new thread.

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Wed, 02/09/2011 - 03:56 #10

khang768

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while roaming, MOC fail, and MTC ok

on my device I can see I log into VPLMN sucessfully. but MOC fail. but MTC ok. After the MTC, MOC becomes OK. any one has the same experience and want to talk about it and share how to solve this?

Thanks for any advise..

KH

Best Regards,KH

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Wed, 02/09/2011 - 12:51 #11

akhtar

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Re: while roaming, MOC fail, and MTC ok

Well i am unable to understand your query.If you can explain it a bit in detail.

Regards,

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